Families Hampshire North Nov-Dec 2014

ISSUE 5 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

EE FR

Christmas time!

Shopping locally, where to see Santa, festive theatre & pantomimes, and lots more...

07845 701896

info@yasminanne.co.uk

Newborn and family fine art photography Photo sessions are available for newborn, family, cake smash, maternity, couples and weddings.

From your home or if prefered I can offer newborn studio photography, in my home in Farnborough Hampshire. www.yasminanne.co.uk

The essential new 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

SANTA SPECIALS S E E S A N TA O N A STEAM TRAIN!

Advance booking only!

Your Child • Their Journey • Our Focus

Open Mornings Enjoy the magic of a one hour steam train ride as Santa visits you at your seat with a gift for every child.

SANTA SPECIALS 6, 7, 13, 14, 20-24 DECEMBER FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK CLICKETY CLICK TO WWW.WATERCRESSLINE.CO.UK

Saturday 15th November Saturday 14th March www.yateleymanor.com

10.00am - 12.00 noon 10.00am - 12.00 noon 01252 405500

MAD087.Franchise_Layout 1 31/07/2014 16:00 Page 1

MAD Academy music and dance for preschool children

hampshirefostercare @HantsFostercare

MAD Academy run classes in many parts of the country, including North Hampshire, but now we would like to give children in other parts of Hampshire the chance to enjoy the delights of our fun packed and high energy classes. To do that we need your help.

Joining MAD Academy can be a life changing experience!

• • • • •

You are the boss Your hours are flexible Start-up costs are low Great job satisfaction Grow at your own speed

Are you enthusiastic, passionate and fun-loving?

We are looking for self-motivated and business minded people to join our team of franchisees by opening the doors of MAD Academy in Basingstoke and south Hampshire.

Call Elaine for a prospectus on 07732 322540 or email her at franchise@madacademy.com Find out more by visiting – www.madacademy.com

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Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

“Our family foster because we enjoy welcoming people and sharing new experiences with them.”

Editor’s welcome

Contents

“On the twelfth day of Christmas my true love sent to me, a ticket to the theatre, another for the ice-rink, and lovely shopping locally ideas!”

4 - 5

News Mums in Business

6 – 7 Childcare & Education

By the time most of you read this, Bonfire Night will pretty much be over and it’ll be time to start the countdown to Christmas. Many glossy magazines at this time of the year will be telling you what you should be doing/wearing/buying to enjoy the perfect Christmas…not so with us. All we want is for you to have fun with your family and so we’ve dedicated almost half of the magazine this issue to exactly that – having fun. There is so much going on in Hampshire North in the run up to Christmas that we’re almost spoilt for choice, and not all details were available at time of going to print (that, and we started to run out of space!), so be sure to keep an eye on the ‘What’s On’ events finder on our website as that will be kept up to date with new events and activities as details are released.

We’ve also focussed on small and local businesses in support of Small Business Saturday, which this year falls on 6th December. On page 8 you can read about how important we think it is to support local businesses and the benefits to you of doing so.

In the meantime, sit back with a cuppa – and perhaps the Michael Bublé Christmas Album playing in the background (if it’s not too early) - and enjoy our Festive issue!

8 - 14 Christmas feature:

Shop locally History of the Pantomime Where to see

Santa Christmas events

& activities Competitions

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What’s on

Sara

Designed by: Cover by: Yasmin Anne www.yasminanne.co.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Contact details:

Creative thinking designflavour.com

Printed by:

PRINTED BY WARNERS 01778 395111

N is ex su t e

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

January/February – Family Health & Wellbeing Booking & copy deadline is 30th November

Find us on Facebook and Twitter

familieshampshirenorth

we

@FamiliesHantsN

Exciting forest activities for all ages.

Tree sales, winter woodland, festive crafts, gingerbread decorating plus the Gruffalo’s Child Trail and led events!

Families Hampshire North is part of a group established in 1990 headed by Families South West London. All magazines are independently owned and operated under licence. © 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 enter a competition and subsequently win a prize, we will supply your details to the company offering the prize. If you would prefer us not to do this please state this on your entry.

Christmas

fo at: lo More in ov.uk/gruffa

forestry.gtill 28 Feb Trail runs

Booking essential call 01420 23666 forestry.gov.uk/aliceholt Alice Holt Forest www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 3

News All Our Own Crafts All Our Own Crafts, a project devised by Basingstoke residents Tracy Braybrook and Kate Donohoe after seeing the success of the All Our Own Work art gallery, gives local residents a unique chance to retail their crafts within the busy shopping centre. Festival Place have granted the pop-up shop the use of an empty unit opposite T.K. Maxx for a three month period. It will display the crafts of over 20 local people.

Kate & Tracy are very enthusiastic about this project and both have their own crafts on display in the shop. With plenty of space to walk around, as well as an access ramp for wheelchairs and pushchairs, everyone can enjoy the time they spend there, marvelling at just how many creative people there are living in Basingstoke. And to help with Christmas shopping they also operate a wish-list, which could come in very handy for those who never know what to buy the special people in their lives!

For more information, visit allourowncrafts.blogspot.co.uk.

Christmas promotion from Labels4Kids After a successful summer Labels4Kids are expanding their range further with the introduction of personalised arts and crafts products made especially for your requirements. Take a look at some great ideas for Christmas, for teachers or for your just about anyone. See the Gifts and PR or corporate section of the website here www.labels4kids.com/ gifts-and-pr-or-corporate.html You’ll be surprised how many gift ideas you will find!

Baby Massage and Baby Yoga Vera offers a bespoke service in which mothers, fathers and carers are given the opportunity to learn how to massage their babies.

Are you always having to

and promotion, because you’re always juggling work with being a parent ??

I have incredible work from home opportunities and I’m looking for 3 types of people: RETAILERS - sales/customer care/product recommenders earning £300-£500 per month TEAM LEADERS - supporting a team of retailers earning £800-£1,500 per month BUSINESS DEVELOPERS - expanding teams throughout the UK, Europe and global - mentoring team leaders, training, support Flexible hours to suit, no boss, no staff, no targets

Sginspirations

Contact Sarah Gallagher 07754 980707 Sginspirations@ hotmail.co.uk

What will you and the kids be wearing on March 27th?

Brain tumour has featured prominently in the news recently. Families are asked to support Wear A Hat Day, a fun-filled, annual brain tumour awareness event helping support research. The organiser, Brain Tumour Research, is asking families and children and schools across the UK to save the date, 27th March 2015, and register now.

The involvement of families and school children in the campaign is poignant given that brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40. Children have lost parents, family members or even their teachers. And in many classrooms there remains a tragic reminder of a child whose life has been lost or damaged by this cruel cancer. The repercussions are felt daily; the lives of families and friends are never the same again.

Register today by visiting www.braintumourresearch.org/ wearahatday.

Adopting with Hampshire County Council Hampshire County Council is continually looking for more adoptive parents to provide caring homes for Hampshire children.

Research and evidence has shown that there are huge benefits in using infant massage and it can improve sleep, relieve colic, constipation and wind in a baby, increase flexibility and improves muscle tone, reduce stress levels and help babies be calm and calm themselves.

We are particularly looking for people who have experience of working with children and who understand the difficulties that children who need adoptive families may face. We also ask that you have a spare bedroom and the commitment to care for a child for the rest of their life.

Baby Yoga offers relaxing and rejuvenating sessions for parents and their babies, where your baby is an integral part of the yoga sessions and perfectly complements baby massage.

Much like children, adoptive families come in all shapes and sizes. We only ask that you lead a child-friendly lifestyle and have the time and space for a child. Adoption will transform your life and we need to know that you are ready for the challenge.

You need to be ready to accept the child as they are and understand that what has happened to them might impact on their behaviour and emotions. Adoption is a life-long journey and we provide a range of support as and when you might need it.

Baby Massage Classes are held at the Liphook Methodist Church and Baby Yoga at the Haslemere Methodist Church. Both venues have free parking available. £5 discount offered on a course for Families Hampshire North readers.

Vera is a fully qualified Infant Massage Instructor (accredited by RCM, IICT, CthA and IPTI) and a Baby Yoga Instructor (accredited by RCM). Contact Vera on 07735084771 or vera@muzitots.co.uk or visit www.muzitots.co.uk.

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Mums and Dads !!!

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

To find out more contact our recruitment team on 0845 6035620 or visit www.hants.gov.uk/adoption National Adoption Week this year takes place 3 to 9 November.

News The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus

Music and more at The Lights

Why do we hang stockings? When was the first Christmas tree? And why on earth does Santa climb down the chimney?

Andover is fortunate to have a professional arts and entertainment venue at its heart. Owned and managed

by Test Valley Borough Council The Lights offers a year round programme of visiting professional artists from all genres including top comedy, excellent theatre, stunning dance and of course live music by named artists together with some great tribute acts.

Find out the answers to these questions and more in the wonderful Christmas show The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus at The Haymarket in Basingstoke from Wednesday 3 to Sunday 14 December.

Based on the book by L Frank Baum, author of The Wizard of Oz, this exciting story follows the early life of Santa Claus from being abandoned in the forest and adopted by wood-nymphs, through to making and delivering the first toys. Meet the original reindeers Glossie and Flossie as well as the chilly rogue Jack Frost and find out the answer to lots of Christmas questions!

With original music and lots of audience participation this is a wonderful seasonal show from Big Wooden Horse, the creators of the hit shows Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! and The Night Before Christmas.

The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus is 50 minutes long, with no interval, and is suitable for those aged 3 and over and their families.

Tickets are now on sale, so call The Anvil box office on 01256 844244.

With the Christmas season almost upon us the venue will be welcoming Santa’s Little Helper, which tells the tale of Albert Tuttle and his adventures with Father Christmas on Christmas Eve. This fabulous family show runs from Wednesday 3rd to Saturday 6th December with morning and afternoon shows making it a perfect outing for little ones.

In contrast fans of popular 80s music are sure to enjoy 80s Mania, a fully costumed show celebrating the era, its music and fashion!

Then a swinging time is promised by The Rat Pack Christmas Show, and sure to be equally popular is Holly at Christmas, from Buddy Holly and the Cricketers. If anyone fancies a dance then there is the Christmas Party Night Disco too.

Finally, the season wouldn’t be complete without a magical ballet and this year the Vienna Festival Ballet return to The Lights with their colourful production of the Nutcracker. www.thelights.org.uk

www.anvilarts.org.uk.

Competition winner!

Congratulations to Sabrina

Gerber, the lucky reader who won the Lands’ End competition from issue four!

Mums in business

Jill Lewis Reflexology Jill started offering reflexology treatments in October 2010 not long after she qualified, and has a dedicated treatment room in her house where she provides a relaxing environment for her clients.

Reflexology is a complementary therapy based on the theory that different points of the feet correspond with different areas of the body. Working these points brings about a sense of relaxation and improves well-being.

Jill enjoys the flexibility of running her own business so she can be free for school plays and sports days, as well as her work as a volunteer therapist at The Pink Place.

Jill has lived in Hook for 13 years with her husband Clive and their children Harry, 9 and Sasha, 6, and enjoys the great sense of community and good schools the area has to offer.

Clive and Harry train at the Basingstoke Rugby Club and Sasha has dance lessons with Loose Moose Dance School at Elizabeth Hall. Both of Jill’s children enjoy having swimming lessons at Odiham Swimming Club at RAF Odiham.

A family favourite day out is to Alice Holt Forest which always has such exciting play areas for children. The family’s favourite restaurant is El Castello in Odiham.

The best advice that Jill can offer to others starting their own business is don’t expect it to grow overnight – be patient and keep at it.

Jill’s website is www.jill-lewis.co.uk or contact her on 07876 243285.

This is our last Mums in Business column for a while as we make way for a new feature in the New Year. Our thanks to all of the lovely Mums who have taken part in this feature since our launch issue!

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 5

Childcare & Education

First Steps Montessori Nursery Hawkley Open term time 9am – 1pm daily & 9am – 3pm Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Rated ‘Outstanding’ by OFSTED Every Thursday 10am – 12pm is open to visitors, come along and see what we do…

A well established nursery operating in a truly magnificent rural location at Hawkley Village Hall.

For further information please Telephone Jane Fisher on 01730 859214 Mobile 07775517185 @the nursery 01730827722 Email jane.m.fisher@btinternet.com www.firststepshawkley.co.uk

New Nursery School in Cliddesden, Basingstoke Sensory bottles Our babies and young toddlers at Yellow Dot Nursery in Andover have a wonderful time exploring our sensory bottles. These very simple and easy to make at home bottles are visually stimulating, and encourage exploration through shaking, rolling and banging. They help to support the development of focus and concentration as your child follows and tracks the items moving around inside the bottle as well increasing fine motor control. The bottles can be made easily by utilising a range of objects found in most homes or purchasing cheaply from high street stores and supermarkets. Within the Baby and Toddler room we use small plastic bottles that are easy to hold and manipulate. These bottles have been washed and dried thoroughly, then part filled with items such as coloured feathers, buttons, beads, coloured waters, rice, pasta, lentils or cereals. To keep your child safe and prevent choking, please glue the lids firmly in place and check frequently.

Otters is a new Nursery School offering excellent facilities, situated in the village of Cliddesden.

Nursery School

The Old Dairy, Farleigh Road, Cliddesden, Basingstoke RG25 2JL ● ● ●

●

Day care, 8am-6pm, Pre school, 8am-3pm.

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Monday - Friday, 50 weeks or term time.

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Children 3 months to 5 years.

Free government funded places for all 3 to 5 year olds.

●

with nature with care

A chance for you to enrol your child at this exciting new nursery.

Set in extensive grounds amongst beautiful open countryside, close to town centre.

Numerous opportunities, both inside and out, our aim is to enhance andnurture the natural abilities of every child.

For more information please contact:

T: 01256 336880 E: enquiries@ottersnursery.co.uk

Situated in beautiful open countryside, Otters Nursery offers freedom within safe boundaries with their exciting nature gardens playing a large part in nursery life.

With a dedicated caring staff team led by a highly qualified & experienced manager, Otters Nursery offers excellent care and a wealth of opportunities to provide the basis for every child to make the most of their abilities and talents as they grow whilst enjoying the delights of simply being a child.

Open Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm. 50 weeks or Term Time. Full Day, School Day, AM or PM sessions. Children aged 3 mths to 5 years old.

For more information contact on enquiries@ottersnursery.co.uk or call 01256 336880. www.ottersnursery.co.uk

Set behind the high hedgerows of Highfield Lane in Liphook, lies one of the biggest schools in our area. You may have driven past its entrance many times but had no idea it was there. The schools inconspicuous setting however belies the 100 year history of prestigious academic connections, and the accomplishments of its pupils on this 175 acre site.

Highfield & Brookham Schools are hugely successful and educate just under 500 boys and girls between the ages of 3 -13 years and they feed the most eminent Senior Schools in the country. Undoubtedly the continued success over at least the last 14 years, is due in part to the Headmaster, Philip Evitt, whose influence was recently officially recognised when he was awarded ‘Best Head of a Prep School’ at the prestigious Tatler Schools Awards in London.

Receiving this award afforded a further opportunity to celebrate having been awarded ‘Excellent’ in their recent ISI inspection. The inspectors judged pupils’ attainments to be “excellent”, and found their attitude and commitment to lessons and activities to be “outstanding” thus contributing to the schools “proven track record in gaining awards and scholarships.”

So next time you’re on your way down Highfield Lane, keep an eye out for Liphook’s hidden gem, an outstanding school of national acclaim, feeding England’s top educational establishments for over 100 years, quietly behind the hedgerows.

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

otters

With stimulating indoor & outdoor environments, which keep children challenged and interested, the Otters Child Centred Curriculum is designed to promote and inspire learning through enjoyable activities that young children love.

Liphook’s Hidden Gem - local Headmaster receives National Award

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enrol now!

Childcare & Education Local Independent School Open Days Barfield School, Guildford Road, Farnham

Treloar School, Holybourne, Alton

Tel. 01252 782271 www.barfieldschool.com

Tel. 01420 547425 www.treloar.org.uk

Open day: 14th November, 9.30am to 11.30am

Open day: 12th November, 1.30pm to 4pm

Barfield is a co-educational school for children between 2-13 years old, set in 12 acres of beautiful grounds, one mile east of Farnham. The nursery is newly refurbished and has airy rooms which are light, uncluttered and conducive to learning. Barfield pupils receive a broad educational experience, with quality academic teaching in an excellent pastoral setting. Scholarships are offered in Year 3 and Year 7 with awards of up to 50% to those with talents in academia, art, music and sport.

Providing education, care, therapy, medical support & independence training to young people with physical disabilities.

You must pre-book your visit by calling the school or using online booking system.

Yateley Manor, Reading Rd, Yateley Tel. 01252 405500 www.yateleymanor.com Open days: 15th November & 14th March, 10am to 12pm

St Nicholas’ School, Redfields Lane, Church Crookham

• • • •

Tel. 01252 850121 www.st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk Open days: 8th November & 7th 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 6 pm with an exciting co-curricular programme. School buses run from Farnham, Basingstoke, Fleet, Alton, and Farnborough areas.

• • •

Co-educational day school 3 -13 years Excellent academic results Inspirational teaching in superb facilities “Outstanding personal development” (ISI Inspection 2010) National leader in chess and sport Safe, vibrant, stimulating environment Inclusive fee structure Scholarships and bursaries Coaches from Camberley, Farnborough, Fleet, Odiham and Hook Work-friendly hours (8.00am-6.30pm) 49 weeks care for younger children Woodland Learning Area

Year 2 children at St Neot’s Preparatory School tumble through space ‘Oooohs’ and ‘aahhhs’ galore could be heard from the year 2 children at St Neot’s Preparatory school as they plummeted through space at the Winchester Science Centre Planetarium recently. Gazing up at a sky full of stars, they learnt fascinating stories about the constellations and some very interesting facts about our solar system. They explored why we have day and night and became light detectives as they discovered what a light source is. They even had a chance to ask some thoughtful questions such as ‘Do all planets spin?’ and ‘Why is Venus colder than Mercury?’ Luckily they managed to persuade the teachers to leave the reclining chairs and low lit theatre and we all came back down to Earth with a thud to discover the effects of gravity in some of the museum’s many exhibits. ‘The children got the chance to explore sound and light, the human body and had a go at being scientists in some experiments of their own. They are really excited about finding out more once we get back to school’, commented Emily Nancolas, Year 2 teacher.

Barfield “Outstanding” ISI Report, May 2013

VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS

11+ VERBAL REASONING VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS Improve your verbal reasoning skills and achieve a higher 11+ score Cards specifically created from recognised 11+ material

www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

Stamp out bullying National Anti-Bullying Week takes place 17-21 November, with this year’s theme of Let’s Stop Bullying Together. The Anti-Bullying Week website is packed with resources for schools, parents and children, plus online workshops and short films on how to survive bullying. Why not take part in their Anti-Bullying Competition, too? ‘Let’s Stop Bullying Together’ is an exciting opportunity for children to get involved in Anti-Bullying Week by designing a gadget, drawing a picture, writing a story, song or poem, taking a photo, or shooting a film or documentary. Entries can be fun, entertaining, serious, creative, colourful or futuristic, so get stuck in now for the chance to win a prize of up to £300.

Find out more about bullying and how to stop it, as well as everything you need to know about Anti-Bullying Week at www.antibullyingweek.co.uk. Closing date for the Let’s Stop Bullying Together competition is 12 December 2014.

01252 782271 • admin@barfieldschool.com • www.barfieldschool.com Registered in England. Company No. 755754 - Registered Charity No 312085

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 7

Christmas

We love Christmas and on the next seven pages we show you just how much with a bumper festive feature!

Shop locally this Christmas and give more than just gifts...

By Sal Jefford, Editor of Families North Wales & Shropshire Borders.

Christmas is upon us once again and, unless you are amazingly prepared and have bought all your presents already, there’s shopping to be done! The big retailers have been bombarding us for weeks, and you can barely walk down the street or switch on the television without seeing adverts for this year’s Christmas must-haves. But what about the small, local, independent retailers? The businesses which are owned and run by local residents, often parents who are trying to feed, clothe and support their own families. Small businesses easily get ‘lost’ in the hubbub of Christmas, when really it’s a time of the year when we should be using them just as much, if not more, than usual.

Yes, the large supermarkets and online retailers can offer price savings, because they are big and they have bulk-buying power.

But what about the things that the big businesses don’t offer?

The things that small businesses generally excel at providing – handmade goods and locally produced items, in-depth product knowledge and personalised advice, customer service, a friendly and enjoyable shopping experience. You may not get the lowest prices, but you do get excellent value for money.

Independent retailers are often happy to order in products in other colours or sizes for you, and they usually deal with any complaints or problems in a far friendlier way than bigger businesses do.

A more enjoyable shopping experience – local business owners frequently like to take the time to chat and get to know their customers, which makes for a far nicer experience Stronger community ties – shopping locally helps to create town centres which are more sustainable and vibrant, meaning people feel part of the community. Local businesses are also often more willing than larger chains are to support local causes that have more meaning to them, the area in which they live and work. www.smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com

Added to all of this, when you buy locally you are making an important contribution to your local economy. Spending money with local businesses causes a ripple-effect, as those businesses in turn spend locally, and so on. Various research has been undertaken, and whilst statistical results vary a little, there is no doubt that contributing to the local economy helps to improve local prosperity and create jobs.

Small Business Saturday UK is a grassroots, non-political, noncommercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities. The day itself takes place on the first shopping Saturday in December each year, but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses. In 2014 Small Business Saturday UK will take place on Saturday December 6th.

Will you shop local this Christmas? Shopping locally gives you: Handmade goods – made by local craftspeople, these are often one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find in the big retailers.

In-depth product knowledge and advice – small business owners often have a better knowledge of the lines they stock, for example which clothing brands ‘run large’ and which are true to size, or which shoes offer the best fit for narrow feet.

Customer service – love the item but don’t like the colour?

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Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

C H R I S T M A S M A R K E T | 20 November – 21 December 2014 I C E R I N K | 20 November – 4 January 2015

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

Christmas

Baby Unique Handmade picture art and keepsake boxes baby.unique06@yahoo.com Baby Unique Now featuring in ‘All Our Own Crafts’ pop up shop in Basingstoke

A SPACE OF MY OWN Creative space with a range of classes for all ages. Try something new or relax with like-minded people. Freestyle sessions, 1-2-1 tuition, team-building events and parties, using recycled materials where possible. Pre-School Art Club every Wed & Fri, including holidays.

Open 9am-2pm every day except Sunday, & some evenings Hartley Mews, Hartley Wintney, Hampshire, RG27 8NX Tel: 01252 844210

www.asomocrafts.co.uk

CHRISTMAS TREES Wreath Kits & Decorations

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

29th Nov – 20th December anytime between 10.00am to 4.00pm (Closed Mondays) www.westgreenfruits.com T• 01252 845772 M• 07954 730143

Christmas Fair Sunday 30th November, 1 - 4pm Sherfield Park Community Centre Near Basingstoke/Hook (RG27 0FP) A fantastic indoor market featuring local businesses offering unique gift ideas for the whole family. www.aineesbazaar.co.uk ainees.bazaar

Ainee’s Bazaar

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 9

Christmas

Christmas Shopping In support of shopping locally this Christmas we’ve put a selection of small & local businesses into a useful directory for you to refer to when planning how and where you want to spend your money this year. See www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk/directory for regular updates.

Sweets n Treats A traditional sweet shop with all the weighed sweets and old favourites that you remember from your childhood. But also far more than just a sweet shop and can supply almost anything you need for your Christmas party or event. How about a sweet tree, or a sweet cake? These can be made with most sweets and make a stunning table display. So look no further than Sweets ‘n Treats for all your party or sweet requirements.

01252 844360 www.sweetsntreats.me.uk

Tinytoes & Stickyfingers Rather than washing away your little ones sticky fingerprints, keep them forever...

Sheri can take your child’s fingerprints or hand/footprints and turn them into beautiful and unique pieces of jewellery that can be worn close to your heart. The perfect gift for mums, dads, grannies and grandpas.

Tinytoes can also capture those prints in a beautifully framed picture for the nursery. Personalised with name, date of birth, colour choice and design. Contact 07789 862 824 or sheri@tinytoesandstickyfingers. co.uk. www.tinytoesandstickyfingers. co.uk

Baby Unique Beautiful handmade affordable personalised baby/children’s gifts. Perfect for baby showers, christenings, or just for your own child’s room. All designed and handmade by Sam, who is happy to work with you if you have something specific you want, giving you something that is very different to what is available elsewhere. This could be the best purchase you make for a special little person. All gifts come gift wrapped. Contact baby.unique06@yahoo.com. www.facebook.com/Baby Unique

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Party Workshop

www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/

your Christmas tree, enjoy a hot drink, and have a look at other goodies. There will be honey, chutney and jam on sale, as well as Christmas Pudding ice-cream.

Ready made door wreaths, as well as wreath kits if you prefer to make your own. 10am - 4.30pm. Closed Mondays.

Now in its 9th year, the Christmas Market has become a firm favourite with shoppers and visitors to Winchester alike. With its rows of attractive wooden chalets each carefully selected for the quality of their products. Many of the stalls specialise in British crafts with items ranging from painted wooden toys to handmade jewellery and ceramics. Sun-Wed 10am-6pm; Thu-Sat 10am-7.30pm.

Christmas Fair

Everything you need for any kind of party.

01256 329414 www.partyworkshop.co.uk

Toy Shed Situated in Alton, the Toy Shed is a family-run independent toy shop stocking many of the top brands of children’s toys.

01420 87630 www.facebook. com/toyshed

All Our Own Crafts A craft shop displaying the very best handmade crafts that Basingstoke and Deane has to offer. Open until Christmas in Festival Place, Basingstoke, opposite TK Maxx. www.facebook.com/ allourowncraftsgallery

A Space Of My Own Along with our usual classes and art materials we also stock a carefully selected range of creative children’s toys, stocking fillers and craft kits for adults. These include knitted animals by Made

By Ewe, embroidery kits by Nancy Nicholson, jewellery making, needle felting and our own “Have a Go” kits for beginners, most of which are also suitable for children. If you’re feeling inspired we can also help you design and make your own gifts or wrapping paper!

01252 844210 www.asomocrafts.co.uk

And, of course, Christmas Fayres & Markets are also an outlet for small & local businesses. Here are some of the best across the region!

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market 20 November to 21 December Winchester Cathedral, Winchester, SO23 9LS

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Newlyns Christmas Fayre 22 November Newlyns Lodge Farm, Hook, RG29 1HA 29 November Newlyns Weyhill, Andover, SP11 0PP www.newlyns-farmshop.co.uk Traditional Christmas Fayre with a wide variety of festive food and gifts, plus the opportunity to sample a selection of Newlyns delicious products. 10am to 3pm.

The Lights Wrapped Up Christmas Fair 29 November The Lights, Andover, SP10 1AH www.thelights.org.uk An opportunity to get ahead in the present buying game by browsing and buying from stalls carrying quality craft items. 10am to 4pm.

NSPCC Christmas Fair 29 November Sherborne St John Village Hall, RG24 9HP www.ssjvillage.org/ Wonderful stalls and prizes.

Entrance fee includes a drink. Free entry for children. 10am to 4pm. £1.

Christmas Trees and Other Goodies 29 November to 20 December West Green Fruits, Hartley Wintney, RG27 8LP www. westgreenfruits.com Visit the Christmas Barn to choose

30 November Sherfield Park Community Centre, Basingstoke, RG27 0FP www.aineesbazaar.co.uk Ainee’s Bazaar are known for their pre-loved sales but this one focusses entirely on local businesses offering unique gift ideas for the whole family. So for regular attendees of Ainee’s Bazaar events, there will be no pre-loved items at this fair, just lovely Christmas stalls!

Proteus Christmas Market 30 November Proteus Theatre Company, Basingstoke, RG21 3DH www.proteustheatre.com A fun-filled seasonal market with vintage and handmade craft stalls, accompanied by festive live entertainment and craft demonstrations. 11am to 4pm. £1 entry on the door, children free.

Christmas Fayre 4 December The Tea Cosy, Hurstbourne Tarrant, SP11 0AS www.facebook.com/pages/TheTea-Cosy-Hurstbourne-Tarrant Craft stalls from local crafts people.

Christmas decorations, delights & gifts, trees and wreaths. Entrance fee includes mulled wine and a mince pie. 6pm to 8pm. £2.

Christmas Cracker 7 December Alton Community Centre, Alton, GU34 1HN www.altoncommunitycentre. org.uk Largest indoor market in Alton.

Come and find all your christmas gifts under one roof or a treat for yourself. 10am to 4pm.

If you’d like to be listed in the online Small & Local Business Directory please get in touch with editor@ familieshampshirenorth.co.uk.

Christmas

The History of Pantomime Magical adventures, intelligent animals, boys who are really girls and women who are really men.

Rebecca James takes a look at some of the weird and wonderful traditions behind the Christmas Panto.

Where did it all start?

The British Christmas Panto can be traced back to the old 16th-century Italian commedia dell’ arte tradition, a populist kind of travelling theatre performed by wandering actors.

Because of language and communication problems, these shows focused on physical acting, slapstick, comedy and funny costumes.

Comic theatrical presentations featuring characters like Harlequin, Clown and Pulcinella became popular across Europe. The first use of the word ‘pantomime’ was in the Harlequin-inspired ‘ballet-pantomime’, The Loves of Mars and Venus, staged in London in 1717. The first ‘modern’ pantomime dates back to 1773, when the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane presented Jack the Giant Killers, followed

by Robinson Crusoe, Aladdin, Babes in the Wood and Cinderella.

Cross-dressing 19th-century clown, Joseph Grimaldi, pioneered the tradition of the Pantomime Dame. The Ugly Sisters were first played by men in 1860. The Ugly Sisters differ from the Dame in that they have to be funny and the villains at the same time.

Animal magic As the 19th century progressed, the subjects of pantomime shifted to fairy tales, with interludes of juggling and acrobatics, providing wholesome entertainment for children, while panto performances also became particularly associated with the Christmas season. Famous panto animals include: Aladdin’s camel and Dick Whittington’s cat, Priscilla the Goose and Puss in Boots!

Top of the bill

Christmas Shows & Pantomimes Basingstoke, RG21 7QR www.anvilarts.org.uk

Cinderella 11 December to 4 January A magical pantomime for all the family to enjoy. Starring television’s Keith Chegwin and Cbeebies’ Katy Ashworth. Various start times - see website for details.

Tickets from £19.

There are no performances on 15th, 18th & 25th December and 1st January.

Signed performance on 17th December.

Relaxed performance on 2nd January for children on the autistic spectrum or with additional needs.

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

The Snowman 6 December A real Christmas treat for all the family.

Cinder-Ella 13 December Featuring fully integrated sign language and suitable for relaxed performances.

Scrooge 20 December Flying Pizza Theatre brings to life Charles Dickens’ much loved, classic story of the tight-fisted Scrooge.

All three performances: 11am.

Adults £7, children £6.

The Harlington

Modern pantomime

The Haymarket

Andover, SP10 1AH www.thelights.org.uk

Santa’s Little Helper 3 to 6 December A delightful new show with live music, puppetry, high energy storytelling and sing-a-long songs.

Suitable for ages 3 to 7 years. Weds to Fri 10.30am & 1.30pm & Sat 11am. From £8.50.

The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre Bordon, GU35 0LR www.phoenixarts.co.uk

Rapunzel

The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness!

17 December A celebration of everything Christmassy. 5pm to 6pm. Adults £6, children £4, family (2+2) £18.

Proteus Theatre Company Basingstoke, RG21 3DH www.proteustheatre.com

Rapunzel 26 November Relaxed performance for those with additional needs.

7pm. Tickets £6, carers and children under 12 months go free.

Father Christmas’s Christmas List

Fleet, GU51 4BY www.fleetpanto.co.uk

Cinderella

The Lights

12 December 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Adults £10, children £7.

The Central Studio

No modern Christmas panto would be complete without its ‘celebrity’ guest star, usually a soap star, comedian or TV presenter to top the bill – a tradition which dates back to the great 19th-century impressario Augustus Harris, who would regularly hire stellar contemporary artistes for his Drury Lane panto performances.

There’s no such thing really as ‘traditional’ pantomime. The whole point is that it has constantly evolved and adapted throughout its history to keep up with changing public tastes. Panto provides an important source of income for many theatres and is also often the first – and potentially formative – experience young children have of the theatre.

adopted by the wood-nymphs, through to making and delivering the very first toys. Various start times see website. Tickets £11.

The Anvil

10 December to 1 January Fleet Panto brings this classic tale to The Harlington. Various start times – see website for details. From £16.50 per ticket.

17 to 24 December There is a lot to be done before Christmas Eve and the elves are looking for some extra little helpers.

10am, 12pm, & 2.30pm. £6, children aged 12 months and under go free.

Basingstoke, RG21 7NW www.anvilarts.org.uk

The life & Adventures of Santa Claus 3 to 14 December This exciting story follows the early life of Santa Claus from being abandoned in the forest and

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 11

Christmas

Where to see Santa!

Here are some of the best places to find him - advance booking is required for all.

Alice Holt Forest

Milestones Museum

Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, GU10 4LS

Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG22 6PG

Winter Woodland

Traditional Father Christmas Grotto

22 November to 24 December Awaken your imagination and indulge your senses this year at the Winter Woodland.

Various activities including a visit to meet Father Christmas and receive a gift. Adults and under 18 months go free, children from £19. On selected days only – see website for details. www.winterwoodland.co.uk

13, 14, 20 & 21 December Father Christmas will be paying a flying visit to Milestones Museum so that children can visit him in his traditional grotto located in the Victorian Railway station waiting room. £3.50 per child plus normal admission charge to the museum. www3.hants.gov.uk/milestones

Finkley Down Farm Park

Miller’s Ark Animals

Andover, SP11 6NF

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

Magical Christmas at Finkley 28 November to 24 December Meet the reindeer, see the Nativity Barn with the farm animals, and of course visit Santa in his Magical Grotto where each child receives a toy. Adults £8.95, children £7.95, under 2 years £4, family (any 4 people) £31. www.finkleydownfarm.co.uk

Marwell Wildlife Thompson’s Lane, Colden Common, SO21 1JY

Christmas at Marwell...be enchanted!

Santa’s Arrival 29 & 30 November Every year Santa visits the farm at Miller’s Ark, and this year he is coming back for a whole weekend, so no small people miss him! From £6.

Santa Special Open Days 14 December to 20 December Usual farm open day as well as the chance to visit Santa in his Magical Grotto. From £6. www.millersark.co.uk

Paulton’s Park

22 November to 24 December Go on a magical journey through Marwell Hall to meet Santa, Mrs Claus and their attentive elves! Adult tickets from £15, under 3 years from £11, under 12 months £5.

NB - Superstar day on 3 December for families of children or adults with additional needs. Check website for details. www.marwell.org.uk

Ower, Romsey, SO51 6AL

Winchester Cathedral The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS www.winchester-cathedral.org. uk/

Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink 20 November to 4 January

12

Watercress Line Alresford, SO24 9JG

Santa Special 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 22, 23 & 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. From 10am. Adults & children £18, under 12 months £10. www.watercressline.co.uk

Santa’s Christmas Wonderland

Top of the Town

15 November to 23 December Visit Santa’s Christmas Wonderland at Paulton’s 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

Basingstoke

Christmas Events Christmas Fun

factory. To make the journey truly magical; children can meet Santa Claus himself and receive an exciting present.

Adults & children over 3 years £25, under 3 years £18.50, under 12 months £6. www.paultonspark.co.uk

An evening of festive family fun!

5th December Eco-Santa’s grotto, real reindeer, Christmas trail, children’s workshops, late night shopping, singing & dance, and free parking after 3pm and all day on Saturday 6th. www.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/ townchristmas

Festive events & activities for all the family to enjoy

This beautiful open-air real ice rink is a must for children and adults alike and a great place to enjoy some winter family fun. Advance booking recommended. Various sessions - see website for details.

Adults £9.50, children aged 4-7 £5, family (2+2) £30.

from around the world retold with the help of props and puppets.

12pm to 12.15pm. Cathedral admission applies.

See our competition on page 14 to win 2 x family ice-skating session tickets!

The Christmas Story 15 to 19 December Children of all ages are invited to hear wonderful Christmas stories

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Children aged 7+ will love this Christmas-themed creative workshop. 10am to 12pm. £2 per child, including a drink & biscuit.

Christmas Create, Make & Take for Toddlers

Advent Activity Day

15 to 19 December

29 November

Enjoy creative time with your toddler at these drop-in workshops. No booking required.

11.30am to 12pm. £2 per child.

Immanuel Church, Danebury Road, Hatch Warren, Basingstoke, RG22 4US

Children’s Christmas Workshop 23 December

Activity day for all the family.

Please register for this event as there are limited spaces. 10am to 12pm. www.immanuelhwb.co.uk

Christmas The Vyne Vyne Road, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL www.nationaltrust.org.uk/vyne

‘Twas the night before Christmas 1 December to 6 January Feel festive as you walk around a family home decorated for Christmas. 12pm to 3pm. Free event.

Christmas Cracker Factory 13, 14, 22 & 23 December Come and have a go at making your own Christmas cracker. 12pm to 3pm. £3.

NB – normal admission charges to property apply for both events.

Cross House, Silchester Road, Bramley, Tadley, RG26 5DF

The Lights at Christmas A season to delight, enchant, entertain & celebrate With fabulous family shows

Lots of Christmas cookery fun for toddlers & pre-schoolers.

2pm. Contact 07799 658999 or totcrossbuns@gmail.com. www.totcrossbuns.co.uk

Living Nativity The Christmas Nativity brought to life with barnyard animals.

Winchester Cathedral Winchester Cathedral, The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS Every Sunday from 23 November to 21 December 10am to 6pm. Free, but donations are welcome. www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/

Mulled Wine Weekend 6 & 7 December Gilbert White’s House, High Street, Selborne, Alton, GU34 3JH A Great Traditional Family Christmas at Gilbert White’s Historic House and Garden. See the house transformed into an 18th Century Winter Wonderland, with local choirs carol singing, and Wassailing activities for all the family. 10.30am to 4.30pm. Adults £9, under 16s £3.50, under 5s free. www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk

Basingstoke Discovery Centre Festival Place Shopping Centre, Basingstoke, RG21 7LS www3.hants.gov.uk/library/bsdc. htm

Reindeer & Stars 13 December

Miller’s Ark Animals

16 December to 24 December

www.millersark.co.uk

Carol Concerts & Carol Singing Christian Aid Carol Concert All Saints Church, Fleet, GU51 4NB 9 December, 7.30pm £5 on the door, including tea/ coffee & mince pie. All proceeds go to Christian Aid. www.parishoffleet.org.uk

QMC Christmas Concert

Christmas Craft

11 December, 7.30pm

22 to 24 December

Adults £5.50, students & children £3.50. All proceeds go to Naomi House.

New Year Craft 29 to 31 December Festive themed craft activities.

29th & 31st 10am to 12pm; 30th 2pm to 4pm.

Tot Cross Buns Christmas Party 13 December

West Street, Andover, Hampshire SP10 1AH

16 to 21 December 6pm; 22 to 24 December 4.30pm. £15 (£16 on Christmas Eve).

Take a break from shopping and have fun making some rustic Christmas decorations from willow. Suitable for ages 10 - adult.

10.30am and 1.30pm. £10.

Festive themed craft activities.

22nd & 24th 10am to 12pm; 23rd 2pm to 4pm.

www.thelights.org.uk 01264 368368

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

The Central Studio, Cliddesden Road, Basingstoke, RG21 3HF

www.centralstudio.co.uk

st

Britten’s Ceremony of Carols

First Communion of Christmas.

Preceded by Carols by the choir at 10pm. 11.30pm.

23 December, 1pm

Carols in the Barn Miller’s Ark Animals, Manor Farm, Blackstocks Lane, Hook, RG27 9PH

Family Eucharist. 10am.

14 to 20 and 22 & 23 December, 11am

Immanuel Church

£6.

Danebury Road, Hatch Warren, Basingstoke, RG22 4US

www.millersark.co.uk

www.immanuelhwb.co.uk

Christmas Carols & Owls by Moonlight Hawk Conservancy Trust, Andover, SP11 8DY 19 & 20 December, 7pm £15.50, includes a mince pie and mulled wine. www.hawk-conservancy.org

Church Services

Concerts at Winchester Cathedral

All Saints Church

The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS

www.parishoffleet.org.uk

www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/

21 December Traditional Nine Lessons & Carols.

6.30pm.

Cathedral Christmas Carol Concert 12 December, 7pm £15-£40.

25 December Said Holy Communion (1662).

8am.

Church Road, Fleet, GU51 4NB

24 December Come to the Stable. Children are invited to come dressed as shepherd, angels or animals. 5pm.

30 November Advent Sunday.

All-age Communion service. 10am.

14 December Christingle Service. 3pm.

21 December Nativity Service. 10am.

24 December Crib Service. 3pm.

Midnight Mass with Carols.

11.30pm.

25 December All-age Communion with Carols. 10am.

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 13

Christmas Liphook Methodist Church 40 London Road, Liphook, GU30 7AN www.liphookmethodist.org 14 December Christingle Service. 10am.

20 December Crib / Nativity Festival. 2pm.

21 December Carol Service. 4pm.

24 December Holy Communion. 11.30pm.

21 December Candlelit Carol Service. 6.30pm.

25 December Christmas Service. 10am.

St Andrew’s Methodist Church Western Way, Basingstoke, RG22 6ER

St Philip and St James Church

First Communion of Christmas.

10.30pm.

19 to 22 December Cathedral Carol Services. 6.30pm.

25 December Family Eucharist. 10am.

21 December A Christmas Celebration. An afternoon Carol Service especially for shoppers at the Christmas Market. No ticket required. 3.30pm

Winchester Cathedral The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/

24 December Family Service. Children are invited to dress as a character from the Nativity. 11am and 3pm.

Choral Evensong and Blessing of the Crib. 5.30pm.

Kings Road, Fleet, GU51 3AR

Midnight Eucharist. 11.30pm.

www.parishoffleet.org.uk

25 December Holy Communion. 8am.

Choral Matins. 10am.

Sung Eucharist. 11.15am.

Choral Evensong. 3.30pm.

21 December Festival of Carols & Words for All. 6.30pm.

24 December Crib Service with Carols. 5pm.

29 November Advent Carol Service. No tickets required. 6.30pm.

WIN two family tickets for iceskating at The Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

WIN one family ticket to see Cinderella at The Harlington in Fleet

To be in with a chance of winning answer the following question:

The Harlington are giving away one family ticket (2 adults & 2 children) to see this popular pantomime.

When was the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market founded?

To be in with a chance of winning answer the following question: How many Ugly Sisters does Cinderella have?

A: 2006

A: One

B: 1999

The Harlington and ‘Tastic Entertainment’ are really excited to announce that CBBC presenter Chris Johnson will be starring in Cinderella as Buttons, together with a hugely talented cast of West End and television performers!

C: 2008

B: Five

C: Two

Go to www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk to find the answer!

To enter, go to www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk/ competitions.

To enter, go to www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk/ competitions.

Terms and conditions apply.

Closing date is 30th November 2014.

Terms and conditions apply.

Closing date is 30th November 2014.

Certain performances & seat types are excluded – see terms & conditions for details.

Christmas recipe to make with your toddler or pre-schooler

Instructions

Christmas Shortbread

5. Using your hands knead the dough until it is nice & smooth and forms a nice ball.

1. Wash hands & put aprons on.

2. Prepare the baking tray (with baking paper).

3. Place butter & sugar into the mixing bowl and mix together with the wooden spoon until smooth then add the cranberries.

4. Sift in the flour a little at a time while mixing, add the semolina & mix well.

6. Dust the work surface with flour then using the rolling pin, roll out the dough until it’s approx 3mm thick.

7. Using your chosen cookie cutter, cut out the dough & place on your baking tray.

Ingredients

Equipment

Butter 50g

Workmat

Mixing bowl

Caster Sugar 30g

Wooden spoon

Baking tray

Plain Flour 50g

Rolling pin

Baking paper

9. Once baked, place on a cooling rack to cool then sprinkle with sugar (icing sugar or shimmer spray for a frosty look).

Fine Semolina 30g

Cookie cutter (in shape of snowman/ Christmas tree)

Oven gloves

10. For snowmen use cranberries for eyes/buttons etc.

Dried Cranberries 30g

14

www.basingstokereading methodists.uk/churches/ st-andrews

8. Place the shortbread into the oven (150C/300F/gas mark 2) for 15-20 minutes.

Cooling rack

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Recipe courtesy of Allison Woolford of Tot Cross Buns

WHat’s ON Out & about Soldier’s Journey Exhibition at Hampshire North Museums

Allen Gallery, Church St, Alton, GU34 2BW A unique exhibition that portrays Hampshire’s critical role throughout the First World War. Ongoing to 11th January 2015 Tue to Sat 10.30am-4.30pm.

Free admission.

Andover Museum, Andover, SP10 1DP Ongoing to 11th January 2015 Tue to Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am4pm. Free admission.

6pm to 9.30pm. £6 per person inc. skate hire.

Last Night of the Autumn Proms

www.discoskate.co.uk

Uplifting classics crowned with a jubilant Proms finale. From £20.50.

Family Scrabble Coaching Basingstoke Discovery Centre, Festival Place Shopping Centre, Basingstoke, RG21 7LS 22 November Find out how to score maximum points with just 2 letters and other useful tips from members of the Basingstoke Scrabble Club. Dropin activity. 11am to 1pm.

See www.hants.gov.uk/museum for more information.

Disco Tots Alton Community Centre, Amery Street, Alton, GU34 1HN Ongoing Parent and toddler group, running every Friday during term time.

9.30am to 11am. £2.50 per family. www.altoncommunitycentre. org.uk

Family Puppet Making Workshop Proteus Theatre Company, Proteus Creation Space, Council Road, Basingstoke, RG21 3DH 15 November For parents and children aged 8+. Come and create an original puppet with Nick Ash, founding director of Scratch Built productions. 2pm. Tickets £5 per adult and first child, £2.50 for each additional child.

Cliddesden Rd, Basingstoke, RG21 3HF

The Haymarket

Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, GU10 4LS

Wote Street, Basingstoke, RG21 7NW

The Gruffalo’s Child for Toddlers 9 & 10 December Some Gruffalo-tastic fun in the forest with crafts & refreshments in the cosy classroom. 2pm to 3.30pm. £7.

www.anvilarts.org.uk

The Gruffalo’s Child for Preschoolers 11 December Gruffalo-tastic fun in the forest with crafts and refreshments in the cosy classroom. 10.30am to 12pm & 2pm to 3.30pm. £7.

Booking is essential. Call 01420 23666 or see www.forestry.gov. uk/aliceholt.

Record & CD Fair The Lights, West Street, Andover, SP10 1AH 20 December 100’s of 1000’s of Records, DVDs & CDs, rock, pop, metal, punk, jazz, Rock ‘n Roll, Indie, Reggae, Soul, R&B, Electronica, Dance Vinyl 12” & Drum & Bass. 10am to 4pm.

Disco Skate

Theatre The Anvil Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR www.anvilarts.org.uk

Shoe Kangaroo and the Big Bad Boot Saturday 29 November, 2pm Did you ever lose a shoe? That tumbled into a bird that flew, over the sea to an island new, where creatures strange and mysterious grew, from a wondrous, magical Shoe Kangaroo. Adults £6, children £4, family (2+2) £18.

www.centralstudio.co.uk

Activities at Alice Holt Forest

www.thelights.org.uk

21 November DISCO SKATE bring you family roller disco nights once a month.

The Central Studio

Arthur’s Dreamboat Saturday 22 November, 11am Long Nose Puppets present a magical playful children’s show with breath-taking puppets. Adults £7, children £6.

www.proteustheatre.com

The Harlington, Fleet Road, Fleet, Hampshire, GU51 4BY

Sunday 23 November, 3pm.

Fawkes, The Quiet Guy Friday 7 November 7.30pm Saturday 8 November 2.30pm & 7.30pm The story of how a gang tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament, www3.hants.gov.uk/library/bsdc. and how Guy Fawkes was caught. htm Adults £12, students & children £8.

Milestones Museum, Leisure Park, Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG22 6PG Ongoing to 11th January 2015 Milestones Museum shows a special Soldier’s Journey themed programme.

Tues to Fri 10am-4.45pm; weekends 11am-4.45pm. Adult £8.95, children £5.75, family £26.75.

We take every care preparing these entries but please check websites in case details have changed.

Nearly New Sales

Bordon Sunday 2nd November Lindford Village Hall, 35 Sycamore Road, Lindford, GU35 0RD. 10am to 12pm. Contact tracyh@ babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Fleet Sunday 16 November

We’re going on a Bear Hunt Friday 7 & Sunday 9 November, 11am & 1.30pm Saturday 8 November, 4pm A family go on an expedition of a lifetime. £12.

The Wizard of Oz Thursday 20 to Saturday 29 November, 7.15pm with a 2.15pm matinee on Saturdays & Sundays Click your heels, make a wish and follow the Yellow Brick Road to The Haymarket for this evergreen family musical. Adults £20, children £13.

The Key Centre, Elvetham Heath, Fleet, GU51 1HA This will be a toy only event. 2pm to 4pm. Contact suehopkins@ babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk.

Basingstoke Saturday 22 November Aldworth School, Western Way, Basingstoke, RG22 6HA 2pm to 4pm. Contact tom@ babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk.

Alton Sunday 30th November Wessex Arts Centre, Old Odiham Road, Alton, GU34 2LX. 10am to 12pm. Contact tracyh@ babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk www.babyandchildrensmarkets.co.uk

Holybourne Theatre London Rd, Holybourne, Alton, GU34 4EL www.holybournetheatre.co.uk Morgan & West - Time Travelling Magicians!

Saturday 13 December, 11am Time travelling magicians Morgan & West have lost the secrets to all of their tricks and by hell or high water intend to get them back. £5, on the door only.

The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre Barbados House, Station Rd, Bordon, GU35 0LR

Fleet 29 November Court Moor School, Spring Woods, Fleet, GU52 7RY 10.15am to 11.30am (10am entrance for members) www.nct.org.uk

Little Treasures Baby, Children & Christmas Craft Market 7 December Old Basing Village Hall, Basingstoke, RG24 7DA. 12pm to 4pm. Contact littletreasuresmarket@hotmail.com

www.phoenixarts.co.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 15

Wintertime at Jubilee Winter is a really magical time here at Jubilee Day Nursery. It begins when the outdoor Christmas Lights get switched on in early December, a fantastic display including a large Father Christmas, LED Snowmen, Penguins, Polar Bears, Toy Soldiers and even Trains.

The children love seeing the lights twinkling in the evening and early morning darkness.

This time of year we also look forward to a very special event in our winter calendar; our Winter Wonderland Walk. Where all our children’s parents, siblings and grandparents join us on a walk through our farmland, down to our private woodland area, affectionately known as Roughwood. There we sing carols and Christmas Songs around our Christmas Tree. There is hot chocolate, coffee and mulled wine so everyone can enjoy a crisp festive winter’s evening.

Disney’s Frozen is our theme for this years Winter Wonderland Walk.

Lets hope it’s cold enough for Olaf and his friends.

January and February also offer a fantastic opportunity for the children at the nursery to explore the cold and frosty outdoors. There is nothing they love more than wrapping up warm and being outside searching out frozen cobwebs, crunching their boots on frozen leaves and pretending to be puffing dragons! The children often walk to the woods in winter time to feed our animals too – and they even help break the ice when the duck pond gets frozen!

If you would like your child to be part of this amazing learning experience on a part-time or full-time basis please contact one of our nursery managers.

Call Lesley on 01189 701 600 Email info@jubileedaynursery.co.uk or Visit our website www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk

Paddock View, Rectory Road, Padworth Common, RG7 4JD

Call Sian on 01189 834 018 Email info@jubileegems.co.uk or Visit our website www.jubileegems.co.uk

Ark House, School Road, Padworth, Berkshire, RG7 4JA