Issue 25 – November/December 2011 www.familiessolentwest.co.uk
FREE Magazine
SOLENT WEST
ALL THE LATEST NEWS & AN EXTENSIVE GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON IN YOUR LOCAL AREA Distribution: Warsash, Botley, Eastleigh, Chandlers Ford, Romsey, Lockerley, Alresford, Winchester, Southampton, Totton, Hythe, Lyndhurst, Beaulieu, Lymington and all the places in between.
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Families Solent West
November – December 2011
Families Solent West Welcome In case you haven’t realised, d, Christmas is almost here! We have a great issue packed with essential ideas and activities to keep your family entertained through to Christmas. There are lots of events going on over the next two months, have a look at our what’s on guide starting on page 10. Take a look at some fantastic reader offers and competitions including the Shrek family fairy tale weekend in London worth £1,000, details are on page 2. Good luck with your entry! Finally, I would like to say a big ‘Thank you’ to all contributors and advertisers for their fantastic support of Families Solent West during 2011. Here’s looking forward to 2012! Merry Christmas!
Rebecca
Editor, Families Solent West
SOLENT WEST Families Solent West www.familiessolentwest.co.uk 0808 108 0917 Editor: Rebecca Carr Next Issue: January/ February Booking & copy deadline: 2 December 17,000 copies distributed 34,000 readers per issue To advertise in Families Solent West: 0808 108 0917 editor@familiessolentwest.co.uk Printed by Bishops Printers Design: Matobo Design
Copyright: Families Solent West, November/December 2011. Data Protection: if you send us your name and address in order to receive free samples or to enter a competition offering prizes in Families Solent West, we may supply your details to the company offering the samples or prizes. If you would prefer us NOT to do so please state this clearly on your entry. Disclaimer: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at the owners own risk and whilst every care is taken, neither Families Solent West nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Families Groups: Families Solent West is part of a group established in 1990, headed by Families South West. All magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.
November – December 2011
Families Solent West
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Families Solent West November/ December 2011
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News
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Groups, clubs and classes Local groups, clubs and classes to keep your children entertained
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Education Covering local education, tuition and childcare
10 What’s on Your essential guide to events and activities across the whole area 17 Spotlight on Hampshire’s Top Attraction This edition’s featured attraction is Royal Submarine Museum 18 Sensory Play Getting to grips with sensory play 19 Competition Win a family Ice Skating tickets
Southampton Swim School Southampton swim school offers parents a range of swimming lessons to suit their budget and their children’s needs. We offer baby classes, preschool swimming, childrens after school and weekend club plus much more! All our classes are small and friendly, held in beautiful, warm private pools with highly qualified teachers that are in the pool with your children. Our aim is to provide lessons with a difference; helping babies, toddlers and children to grow in confidence and enjoy the water for life. We get great results quickly and don’t tie you in to long terms contracts and are always available for a chat. Call or email us for further information. For further information please call Gemma on 023 8000 0038 or visit: www.southamptonswimschool.com
The Berry Theatre The Berry Theatre in Hedge End has seen an exciting few months following its launch in April by actor and theatre director Samuel West. The state-of-the-art theatre offers a busy programme of children’s theatre, drama, music, comedy, film and opportunities to get involved. This Christmas, The Berry will add some fizz to classic fairytale Hansel and Gretel with lashings of live music, colourful performances, magical puppetry and fun for all the family! For more information and to book call 01489 799 499 or visit www.theberrytheatre.co.uk
Romsey Centre Preschool Romsey Centre Preschool was established in 1989, and we are situated in the grounds of Romsey Abbey Primary School, and have a wonderful indoor and outdoor space, for our children to learn through play. We gained “outstanding” on our 2009 Ofsted, and we have been so successful that we have extended our opening hours. We now open on a Monday and Friday afternoon, and this is working well, with spaces still available. Our success is also due to our committee of parents, who have supported us this year, by raising over £700 for new toys.
THERE’S A NEW PARTY IN TOWN… pass it on! Jamie Oliver is coming to Town! Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to be part of his exciting new business Jamie at Home. We are currently seeking self-employed Managers and Consultants with or without Party Plan experience and anyone looking for extra income for Christmas. Could this be you? For more details contact Sarah on 07796 170200 or vc_sarah@hotmail.com.
Dance, Rhythm, Coordination, Imagination, Fun For Boys and Girls aged 2-5
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Families Solent West
Little Gems Little Gems Boutique is now getting ready for Christmas! Come along and find the perfect Christmas outfit or gift for your little ones. We have a large selection of beautiful designer clothing from Giranola, Tutto Piccolo, Sarah Louise, Joules, Bebe, Emile et Rose and lots more to choose from. New to Little Gems is the classic Snowman Ceramic range, which is perfect for winter; choose from mug and bowl sets or money boxes. Our traditional John Crane wooden toys are still available with the fire engines and red bikes being very popular!
CALLING ALL TODDLERS TO GET THEIR ‘GROOVE’ ON! Classes held @ Romsey Rapids & Academy Studios For more information call Emma on 0781 8406831 November – December 2011
News Touch a loved one’s heart this Christmas with a precious silver keepsake from Smallprint! Create a magical Christmas with a bespoke gift from Smallprint.
• Temporary hair extensions to take home and glitter spray
• Child friendly make up • Nail painting and nail art • Temporary body art and stick on jewels
Choose from our fingerprint range, touched by the person you love, or capture Santa’s little helper’s cute drawing and handwriting, or even their miniaturized hand and foot prints all in fine silver for you to wear and cherish. Visit www.smallp.co.uk to view the full range of charms, pendants, cufflinks and keyrings including our brand new range of birth tags and ingots.
• Games and prizes • Gift for the birthday girl A fun party makeover for • Party bags supplied at extra cost girls aged between 4-16 • Invitations provided
0845 390 1010 www.gorgeousgirlsparty.co.uk 2 hour all-inclusive party package – call for details or visit our website
Tired of juggling family and work commitments?
Contact Wendy on 023 80292388, wendy@smallp.co.uk, www.facebook.com/SmallprintSouthampton or Suzanne on 01489 559218, suzanne@smallp.co.uk, www.facebook.com/SmallprintWinchesterFareham
Do you need balance and a flexible lifestyle?
Unique Present Idea for Christmas For a worthwhile present this Christmas, a Reading Chest Gift Voucher is perfect for all young children who are learning to read. A gift voucher costs from £25 for a 3 month membership to Reading Chest. It comes complete with a book bag, reward chart and stickers and a choice of book to keep (- A Christmas Journey by Brian Wildsmith is our current favourite)!
Would a regular part time income make a difference to your quality of life? If you are honest, ethical, hard working, self motivated and have a managerial, teaching/training, HR, sales/ marketing, recruitment or self employed background or perhaps you have retired or taken a career break to raise a family then we would love to hear from you. Call Hesione Waugh on 01329 232 084 / 07794127732 or email hesione.waugh@yahoo.co.uk Life is for living! Are you living the life you want?
Children can then look forward to receiving their own deliveries of wonderful reading books, specifically tailored to their reading ability, from Reading Chest’s extensive choice of fiction and non-fiction reading scheme books. Go to www.readingchest.co.uk to find out more.
No more Monkey Bizness, Gambado is here! Gambado, the UK’s premier indoor play and party centres for children has come to Eastleigh. The expanding Children’s Entertainment Centre operator has announced the acquisition of the centre previously operated by Monkey Bizness. Confirming the take-over, Gambado Managing Director, Ian Westwater said: “This is an exciting time for our company and we are delighted to be in a position to take on new sites and bring the unique Gambado experience to Eastleigh.” Gambado currently operates three indoor soft play centres in and around London. The centres offer a unique indoor soft play experience for children under the age of 12 years along with the best birthday parties in town. Come on down and meet Gambado the Tiger, Phillip Geise and his team! Visit our new website www.gambado.com to find out all about us and what’s coming soon! November – December 2011
WIN!
To celebrate we are giving away 1 annual membership for 1 child and 2 named adults, and 2 runner up prizes of a family day pass for 5 people.
For your chance to win, answer the following question: What kind of animal is Gambado? a. Monkey b. Lion c. Tiger To enter simply email your answers to competitions@familiessolentwest.co.uk stating the name of the competition you are entering for along with your name, address and telephone number. Closing date: 30 November. Families Solent West
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News Wrap up warm this winter with Etikett of Botley! Winter stock has arrived at Etikett, from coats & hats to socks & shoes! Etikett has something for everyone – fashionable and modern but also classic and traditional – beautiful clothing for special occasions and Christmas parties, clothing for 0-8 years that allow children to be children. If you want something different from the High Street but at an affordable High Street price, Etikett now stock Darcy Brown, Sarah Louise, Coco, Emile et Rose, Little Darlings, Abella, Timberland, 3 Pommes, Weekend a la Mer, Girandola, Dani, Kaloo, Mumbo Jumbo Toys. Why not visit us this winter, 22 High Street, Botley, SO30 2EA
Do you run groups, clubs or classes for babies, toddlers and children? Why not advertise in a publication that really works. Our next edition will include a large feature on this area so why not book your space today.
Call 0808 108 0917
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Families Solent West
November – December 2011
Activites, Clubs and Classes Rubytots… a Fun, Energetic and Structured Play Programme Rugbytots unique programme has been designed to develop your child’s physical, psychological and social attributes, as well as gently encouraging rugby specific skills such as running with the ball, finding space, kicking, catching, scoring a try and much more. We guarantee small class sizes to ensure that the children receive the right level of individual coaching and help them to develop their physical and social skills. We operate daytime, after school and weekend classes across Hampshire and South Wiltshire.
Come on give us a try!
November – December 2011
Families Solent West
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Education Small is beautiful! Chiltern Tutorial School, is a small school for dyslexic, dyspraxic and dycalculic pupils, in Otterbourne near Winchester. It is rare to find such a school focusing on the needs of children at the primary stage. Pupil number is restricted to a maximum of 30 in order to ensure that each child receives the individual teaching and attention that their difficulties require.
Children’s Parties
Fun, adventure parties at two fantastic venues – the Treehouse Study Centre and Out of Town Centre, Beaulieu Follow trails, take part in fun outdoor games, hunt for hidden treasure. Themes include Animals, Bugs, Birds, Robin Hood, Pirates, Dinosaurs, Fairies & Owls and special Survival Parties for 7 yr olds + For more information or to discuss your party call the Countryside Education Trust on
The aim of the school is to provide pupils with the necessary skills and learning techniques to enable them to face their years at Secondary School with confidence and assurance.
01590 612401 mail@cet.org.uk www.cet.org.uk
Home-School Tutoring UK (est. 1984) Tutors (with full references/CRB checked) available for: • • • • •
All ages, levels and subjects Special Needs Support Exam Preparation Support with Home Schooling Holiday and/or Term time work
Initial consultation is free and without obligation
Please contact the Area Advisor for Hampshire (West & Central) Mrs Alex Murray-Twinn, BA (Hons) PGCE, NPQH e: alex.murray-twinn@homeschooltutoring.co.uk t: 02380 275573 www.homeschooltutoring.co.uk
Whilst recent innovations in the treatment of Dyslexia have claimed ‘miracle’ results, we know that this is a complex learning difficulty which will not go away and learning to cope with its effects and master methods to counter its symptoms are essential if children are to avoid educational failure in life. At Chiltern Tutorial children are helped to discover their own strengths, and encourage independence while provided with understanding and support. For further information call 01962 717696 or visit: www.chilterntutorial.co.uk
Focus on phonics By Joanna Parry A new report has been published with MPs claiming that the focus on phonics in schools will turn reading for children into a “dull exercise”. They are concerned that children will be turned off reading by the Government’s new literacy drive and the Coalition policies that have been designed to make schools use back-to-basics teaching methods. In order to improve literacy in England, the Government want primary schools to use synthetic phonics, with children sitting a ‘phonics test’ after only one year at school. However, the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Education is claiming in its report that too much emphasis on this method could affect pupils’ learning and lead to a decline in literacy. They also claim they are joined in this opinion by the education establishment. According to the latest figures, around 16 per cent of children leave primary school without being able to read to an acceptable level, with one-in-10 boys having only the reading skills of a seven-year-old. “Literacy is the key to the curriculum,” said Fabian Hamilton, Labour MP and chairman of the Parliamentary group. “Pursuing phonics without considering whether pupils can comprehend what they’re reading, and without paying any attention to whether children enjoy reading, will switch children off. Learning to read – especially a complex language like English – cannot be reduced to a mechanical process.” However, Nick Gibb, the Schools Minister, has rejected the group’s conclusions, saying “High-quality evidence from across the world shows that the systematic teaching of synthetic phonics is the best way to teach basic reading skills, and especially those aged five to seven.”
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Families Solent West
November – December 2011
Education Come along to the Christmas fair and craft event at Little Gems Pre-School Little Gems Pre-School started the Autumn term with a new garden area for the children to explore, be creative and get messy in. Children also enjoy our wellie walks around our lovely quiet green and wooded area. Our staff team would be delighted to show you around our happy pre-school and spend time getting to understand your child’s needs. We are holding a Christmas Fair/craft event on Friday 25th November from 9am to 11.30am with lots of fun stalls for little ones, craft activities, refreshments and even Santa’s grotto! All very welcome to just turn up or for more information call Little Gems Pre-School 023 8047 1070.
Checks for two-year-olds
Little Gems Pre Schools
Under new Government plans to spot children who are failing to develop properly, all two-year-olds will be given a compulsory “progress We aim to make your child’s early years education a happy and rewarding experience check”. Two-year-olds in England will be assessed to discover whether they can use certain basic words, respond to familiar sounds, We encourage the children to explore nature in our brand new outside garden and with communicate their wants and socialise with others, as part of an Early woodland and wellie walks Years Foundation Stage framework setting out to identify struggling We offer full day care and/or sessional 9-3 children. All parents will be given a written report of their child’s Ofsted registered and rated us as good abilities in these key areas, with Ministers claiming that this will help to identify any early developmental problems. They are concerned that Established Preschool with fully qualified team. too many children are starting school without the necessary basic Feel free to pop on and visit us or call us on 023 80471070. social and language skills, and Sarah Teather, Liberal Democrat Minister Moorgreen Youthhouse, Moorgreen Road, West End for Children, said “the importance of the early years – as a foundation for Southampton, Hampshire SO30 3EG life and for future attainment and success – cannot be overestimated. That’s www.littlegemspreschool.co.uk why it’s vital we have the right framework to support high quality early years education.” However, Richard House, senior lecturer in psychotherapy at Roehampton University, says “Children are so Earlybirds Pre-School diverse that to even begin constructing some generalised view of Offering a warm, caring & stimulating environment where children can feel secure & happy, & so how they should be developing at a certain age is fraught with develop & learn. Excellent links with Newtown danger.” He goes on to state that the move risked defining Soberton Infant School; Local to Wickham, children as “failures” at a young age. Boarhunt, Southwick, Droxford & Denmead;
Advertise in a publication that really works... Book your space today.
Call 0808 108 0917
Small Groups; High staff ratios. Morning / Afternoon & All Day sessions available for children from 2y 9m – 5y. Earlybirds Pre-School, Newtown Soberton Infant School, Church Road, Newtown, Fareham, PO17 6LJ. Telephone: 01329 833161.
Registered Charity Number: 801708
Located on the grounds of Romsey Abbey Primary School. Fantastic indoor and outdoor play facilities.
‘Outstanding’ Ofsted 2009. Care for children aged 2yrs 9mths to 5yrs. Opening times: 9am to 3pm Monday and Friday (lunch club 12pm-1pm) 9am to 12pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. Flexible hours to suit.
Spaces le Availab
We offer care and education of children, following the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. Friendly, highly qualified staff.
Feel free to visit, or call 07946113678
www.romsey romseycentre centrepreschool preschool.co.uk
November – December 2011
Families Solent West
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Festive and frugal
It all in the timing Children value the time we spend together far more than presents. ◆ Find a game that all the family can play together and it also ensure they are not on their electronic games all day. ◆ Take all toys out of their boxes before wrapping them, remove all the plastic wrapping and ties and put them back in their boxes with batteries installed. It saves scrabbling around for Philips screwdrivers on Christmas Day morning. ◆ Don’t give all the children’s presents on Christmas Day – give them over the whole period between Christmas and new year. This saves on present overload for little kids and brings a sense of excitement and anticipation every day. You could try hiding a few presents and doing a treasure hunt each day. ◆ Make sure the kids get some decent periods of time to play with and enjoy their presents. There’s nothing more frustrating than having to go off to another relative’s house when you really want to make a Lego model.
We’ve put together a few tips to make sure your Christmas is full of meaning and Christmas cheer, whilst keeping it frugal and festive.
Being frugal with food
Creative presents
◆ Plan your meals, make sure you estimate your quantities as precisely as you can and only buy what you need. It’s all too easy to go to the supermarket with an open-ended list so make the list along with amounts and stick to it.
We’re not suggesting that you give Granny a junk robot – but if you pick the right craft or idea to suit your talent, a thoughtful present can outshine any new gift.
◆ Buy quality in few things such as a British, organic and well-reared turkey and use it all. Try the things our mums used to make; turkey sandwiches, casserole, stock and curry!
◆ Frame your child’s picture – the right frame can do justice to any work of art, however abstract.
◆ There is no doubt that home-baked mince pies and yule log taste better than shop-bought ones – but the ingredients can be costly and baking can be time consuming (and sometimes disastrous) so focus on cooking a few special items and don’t worry about buying everything else in.
◆ Make a family photo calendar. There are companies that can do this for you, but if you are a dab hand on the computer, you may even be able to do it yourself. ◆ Decorate a piece of pottery. There are pottery cafes all over Sussex where you can go and paint a ready-made piece of pottery. It doubles as an afternoon’s entertainment as well as presents. ◆ Homemade chocolate truffles, jams or chutneys always go down a treat and this year we are going to make lemon curd too. ◆ You could also try customised bed linen or cushions.
Festive savings ◆ Earn money shopping at Christmas using cashback facilities on credit cards, or shop online at specialist cash back sites such as www.cashbackshopper.co.uk. ◆ Check the discount voucher sites online – there are some great discounts and you may even get new ideas for presents. ◆ If you are hosting a family celebration and your budget is really stretched, ask everyone to make a contribution. Apart from cash, this could be in the form of Christmas pudding, mince pies, cheeseboard, chocolates or nuts. ◆ With supermarkets open most of the festive period don’t over buy or over spend on food. With careful planning you can just buy what you need, then top up as you go. ◆ Everyone understands when money is tight and if you feel uncomfortable about accepting gifts that cost more than you spent and then ask the whole family to set a ceiling on the amount everyone spends to help avoid embarrassment. ◆ If skimping at Christmas is out of the question then plan, plan and plan. Buy early spreading the cost and don’t buy anything you don’t need.
For more tips and articles about Christmas visit www.familiesonline.co.uk 10
Families Solent West
November – December 2011
Where is
Father Christmas? Father Christmas will be visiting:
...and visiting by steam train:
Basing House
Exbury Gardens
10, 11, 17 & 18 December Pre-booking is required: 0845 6035635 www.basinghouse.org.uk
10 & 11 December & 17 – 20 December Pre-booking is required: 023 8024 5750 www.exbury.co.uk
Manor Farm
Watercress Line
11 December 01489 787055 www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm
Depart from Alresford and/ or Alton 3 & 4, 10 & 11, 17 & 18, 21-24 December Pre-booking is required: 01962 733810 www.watercressline.co.uk
Marwell Wildlife 25 November – 24 December (inclusive) 0844 736 4200 www.marwell.org.uk/christmas
Milestones Museum 10, 11, 17 & 18 December 01256 477766 www.milestones-museums.com
November – December 2011
These are just a some of the places Father Christmas will be visiting this year, please remember to book in advance to avoid disappointment and also check the what’s on listings for more fun Christmas activities to do in November and December.
Families Solent West
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November/December 2011
What's On
We aim to be as accurate as possible but the listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please contact venues in advance to check details and prices.
Where you see this symbol please visit...
www.hampshiretopattractions.co.uk k for more information and discount vouchers.
November until Fri 25 November Autumn Trail Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 enquiries Fun trail for families to follow Free with normal admission
1 November Friend or Foe 7.00pm and matinee (Wed) 1.30pm Theatre Royal Winchester www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk 01962 840440 Michael Morpurgo’s tale of friendship comes to the stage for the first time in an adaptation for ages 8+ by Scamp Theatre. & 2 November
3 November Tots ‘n’ Tinies: Boxes of seeds 1pm-3pm Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 522106 to book Let’s look at autumn fruits, seeds and leaves. £5.95 per adult, £5.95 each extra child; siblings under 2 free
4 November Little Owls Parent & Toddler Club Winter Woods Countryside Education Trust www.cet.org.uk Come and have fun exploring nature! Monthly meetings, usually the first Friday and following Monday of each month. Come and try a session – choose 10.00am – 12.00 noon or 1.00 – 3.00pm. This season, all meetings are at the Treehouse Study Centre Cost: Friends of the Trust £4.00 per parent & child (plus £2.00 for each additional child/adult). Non-members £5.50/£2.75. Advance booking and payment only. Payment for a term ahead is advisable. & 7 November
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Families Solent West
5 November Fireworks Night Royal Victoria Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 02380 455157 A spectacular Fireworks display to music in a magnificent setting. Accompanied by miniature train rides, mini fun fayre, and refreshment stalls.The Cedar Tea Rooms will be open, and new for this year visit the craft fayre in the Heritage Visitor Centre. Time: Gates open 5.30pm. Fireworks 7.30pm. Please arrive early to avoid congestion. Price: In advance: Adult £4.50, Conc £3. On the night: Adult £7, Conc £5, Family £20 (2 adults,2 children). Parking free.Tickets available from 1st October from Heritage Visitor Centre and Hamble Community Sports College.
6 November Berries for Birds and Bellies! Manor Farm Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm 01489 787055 Feast your eyes on the winter food for wildlife with a short guided walk before picking your own sloes for home recipes. Collection punnet included, sloes subject to availability. Suitable for ages 7+, children must be accompanied by an adult.Time: 11am. Meet at Barnfield kiosk. Price: Adult £4, Child £1. Booking essential.
8 November Travelling Souk Christmas Fair in the Great Barn Basing House, Barton’s Lane, Basingstoke RG24 8AE www.thetravellingsouk.com & www.basinghouse.org.uk Please see the Travelling Souk website for more details. The Travelling Souk will be passing through Old Basing for one day only- bringing a tempting assortment of unique gifts that you can’t buy elsewhere! The Christmas fair is not just for Christmas presents – you will find personalised Birthday presents, quality clothes, shoes, jewellery and decorative home accessories. Most importantly every purchase will support the Pelican Cancer Foundation www.pelicancancer.org. Admission £5 on the door. For details about sellers and pre-booking for fasttrack entry visit www.thetravellingsouk.com 9.30am - 4pm November – December 2011
20 November
Lantern Making Workshops 10:00-3:30 Ground floor unit, Brooks Shopping Centre (tickets required) www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk
Children’s Christmas Glass Decorations 10am-12am or 2pm-4pm sessions Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk Book online or call 01794 369318
Come and make a colorful lantern and take part in the parade down the High Street to celebrate the opening of the Christmas Market and Ice Rink. to 13 November
16 November Christmas Tower Tours 12:15 www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk These special tours offer spectacular views across the city and Cathedral Close. to 23 December
17 November Tots ‘n’ Tinies: Holly and Ivy 1pm-3pm Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 522106 to book Let’s look at Evergreens. £5.95 per adult £5.95 each extra child; siblings under 2 free
19 November Santa’s Christmas Wonderland Paultons Park www.paultonspark.co.uk 023 8081 4442 The most magical Christmas Experience in the South. Tickets include entry to the amazing new Peppa Pig World featuring 7 fun rides and a large indoor soft play area, as well as access to some of the Park’s other rides. to 23 December (weekends & selected days only)
Lantern Making Workshops 10am-3:30pm Ground floor unit, Brooks Shopping Centre (tickets required) www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Come and make a colorful lantern and take part in the parade down the High Street to celebrate the opening of the Christmas Market and Ice Rink. to 20 November
November – December 2011
Make beautiful and unique glass Christmas decorations. Tickets: £25 (see website for full details)
Magic Lantern Shows Manor Farm Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm 01489 787055
What's On
12 November
Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway
Join us for a very special afternoon of Victorian family entertainment presented by popular lantern projectionist Mr Stan Roberts. A magical variety of illuminated slides including amazing mechanical moving images, rural and Christmas scenes. Time: Performances at 1, 2 & 3pm. Price: Included in normal Farm admission charge
24 November Ice Rink www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk g Experience an See our exciting exhilarating skate competition on under the stars page 19 in this issue and see how for details on how to the Cathedral win tickets provides a stunningg backdrop to thesee exciting Christmas events to 31 December
Christmas Market 10am-6:00pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Recognised as one of the best in Europe and renowned for its spectacular location, the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market brings high quality exhibitors, wonderful Christmas gifts and an abundance of festive foods. to 21 December
Lantern Procession 6pm Leaving from the Great Hall www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Join us as we celebrate the opening of the Christmas Market and Ice Rink by taking part in this spectacular lantern parade. (see Lantern Making Workshops above – 12th/13th, 19th/20th November)
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What's On 25 November Winter Trail Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 enquiries
27 November
1 December
3 December
Live Nativity 10am-6pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk
Tots ‘n’ Tinies: Little Presents 1pm-3pm Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 522106 to book
Grand Bauble Hunt! 10am-4pm (last entry at 3pm) Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 enquiries
Let’s look at Garden gifts £5.95 per adult. £5.95 each extra child; siblings under 2 free
Can you find the special decorated Christmas trees around the Gardens depicting The Twelve Days of Christmas? Collect cone baubles from the foot of each tree to claim your chocolate treasure prize! (Hunt lasts approx 1 hour). BBQ available. Adults: Free with normal admission (or 2 for 1 with offer in Families Solent East Magazine); Children: £1
Fun trail for families to follow Free with normal admission
Characters from the Christmas Story will be making an appearance at the Christmas Market. Meet Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus and animals from the stable.
to 10 February
to 18 December
Christmas at Marwell... be enchanted Marwell Wildlife www.marwell.org.uk/christmas 0844 736 4200
Teatime with Father Christmas Manor Farm Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm 01489 787055
Let us take you on a magical journey through Marwell Hall to meet Santa, Mrs Claus and their attentive elves. Our gingerbread express will whisk you to the enchanted hall where you’ll step through an igloo entrance into the magical ice palace. We’ll then invite you into Mrs Claus’ library for storytelling, entertainment and gingerbread decorating before calling your name to meet Santa. Share a few moments with the big man himself and receive a special gift before our elves guide you into the magnificent Tudor Rose Hall for a final photo opportunity with our costumed penguin character. to 24 December (various dates)
Have a chat with Father Christmas as he drops into the schoolteacher’s cottage for afternoon tea. Bring along your letter to Santa to post in the special cottage post box. Time: 2.30pm-3.30pm. Price: Included in normal Farm admission charge (children do not receive a gift). No need to book – just pop in!
December Throughout December Winter Trail Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 enquiries Fun trail for families to follow
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Families Solent West
2 December Little Owls Parent & Toddler Club Festive Fun Countryside Education Trust www.cet.org.uk Come and have fun exploring nature! Monthly meetings, usually the first Friday and following Monday of each month. Come and try a session – choose 10.00am – 12.00 noon or 1.00 – 3.00pm. This season, all meetings are at the Treehouse Study Centre Cost: Friends of the Trust £4.00 per parent & child (plus £2.00 for each additional child/adult). Non-members £5.50/£2.75. Advance booking and payment only. Payment for a term ahead is advisable. & 5 December
Please say you saw it listed in Families Solent West
See Santa on a steam train Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk Advanced booking: 01962 733810 Various times. Tickets £15 adults & children. Join Santa as we steam on a 1 hour RETURN journey through the scenic Hampshire countryside. & 4 December
Children’s Christmas Crafts for 7 – 11 year olds Countryside Education Trust www.cet.org.uk 1.00pm – 4.00pm. Based at the Treehouse Study Centre. Make some crafty Christmas creations to take home and join a lantern trail through the woods. Cost £8.00 per child, £7.00 Friends of the Trust.
November – December 2011
7 December
Grand Bauble Hunt! 10am-4pm (last entry at 3pm) Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 enquiries
Theatre Royal Winchester www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk 01962 840440
Can you find the special decorated Christmas trees around the Gardens depicting The Twelve Days of Christmas? Collect cone baubles from the foot of each tree to claim your chocolate treasure prize! (Hunt lasts approx 1 hour). BBQ available. Adults: Free with normal admission (or 2 for 1 with offer in Families Solent East Magazine); Children: £1
Teatime with Father Christmas Manor Farm Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm 01489 787055 Have a chat with Father Christmas as he drops into the schoolteacher’s cottage for afternoon tea. Bring along your letter to Santa to post in the special cottage post box. Time: 2.30pm-3.30pm Price: Included as part of normal Farm admission charge (children do not receive a gift). No need to book – just pop in! & 18 December
November – December 2011
Theatre Royal Winchester’s traditional family pantomime will be a fun-filled treat for the whole family, with original songs, audience participation and a touch of magic. to 2 January times vary
9 December Carols at the Cathedral 2:30pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Lay Clerks and guest sopranos sing a programme of popular carols.
10 December Exbury Santa Specials Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway www.exbury.co.uk Box Office 023 8024 5750 Wrap up warm and join in Christmas festivities at Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway in the New Forest. A musical train ride awaits, through wintery gardens with seasonal characters – reindeer and snowmen - to spot along the way. There’s hot punch for adults and a festive chocolate for children. All children visit Santa’s Magical Grotto for a personal family meeting with Santa, where they will receive a quality gift-
wrapped present. Lots of free photo opportunities with Santa, snowmen and reindeer to take away lasting memories. Why not follow the Christmas Trail around the Gardens? Warming meals in Eddy’s Restaurant. Pre-booking essential. & 11 December
Waynflete Singers Christmas Concert 7.30pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Handel: Israel and Egypt, with Florilegium and soloists; directed by Andrew Lumsden.
Father Christmas Grotto Basing House, Barton’s Lane, Basingstoke RG24 8AE www.basinghouse.org.uk Please see website for more details. Meet Father Christmas in the delightful setting of Basing House. £7 per child aged 0 - 15 yrs which includes a good quality gift. Parents/ Carers/ Adults are FREE. Please pre-book your time - email basinghouse@hants.gov.uk
Christmas Tree Festival Royal Victoria Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 02380 455157 The official launch of our brand new festive event. Be the first to see our beautiful Chapel filled with Christmas trees. Enjoy live music, Santa’s Grotto, puzzle trails and children’s crafts. Plus visit the Empire Room for our Craft Fayre. Time: 10am-4pm. Price: Admission to the Chapel: Adult £2, Child £1. Free admission to the Craft Fayre. Small charges may apply for some activities
Father Christmas Grotto 11:30am-4:30pm Milestones Museum, Leisure Park, Churchill Way West, Basingstoke www.milestones-museum.com 01256 477766
See the Christmas lights sparkle across the city and the Cathedral Close from the top of the Cathedral Tower.
Treat your children or grandchildren to a visit to a traditional Father Christmas grotto. Each child is given a gift from Father Christmas, suitable from ages 0-15 yrs for £3 per child. Your visit to Father Christmas is bookable on arrival only. During your visit get involved in the Victorian school (selected times), children can try the Christmas trail and can design and make their own Victorian Christmas card to take home. Father Christmas Grotto visits are from 11.30 - 4.30pm. All subject to availability.
to 23 December
& 11, 17 & 18 December
to 11 December
Twilight Tower Tours 3:30pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk
What's On
4 December
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What's On 11 December Brass Band at Christmas Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 enquiries Enjoy your favourite Christmas music performed by Southampton’s Ocean Brass. Free admission
Advent Concert by the Cathedral Chamber Choir 1:30pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Admission is free but a retiring collection will be taken to help defray costs.
Christmas Market & Festivities Manor Farm Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm 01489 787055 Browse a selection of local craft and produce stalls while enjoying a host of music, theatre and festive entertainment at this fabulous family day out. Visit Father Christmas in the stable, dress up in the farm nativity scene (bring a camera!) and enjoy mulled wine and mince pies in the Victorian farmhouse. Join us for our traditional Christmas carol service in St Bartholomew’s church at 3pm. Time: 10am-5pm. Price: Normal Farm admission charge. Additional charge for some activities (e.g. Father Christmas).
See Santa on a steam train Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk Advanced booking: 01962 733810 Various times. Tickets £15 adults & children. Join Santa as we steam on a 1 hour RETURN journey through the scenic Hampshire countryside. & 11 December
BIG OWLS CLUB – Countryside Education Trust www.cet.org.uk Fun, discovery activities for 4 – 6 year olds with accompanying adults. 10.00am – 12.30pm and 1.30pm – 4.00pm. Festive Fun – Treehouse Study Centre. Cost: £6.00 per parent & child (plus £3.00 for each additional child/adult), Friends of the Trust £5.00/£2.50. Booking: Sessions must be booked and paid for in advance.
12 December Spy Kids 3 All the time in the world The Berry Theatre, Wildern Lane, Hedge End www.theberrytheatre.co.uk 01489 799 499 10am all tickets £2. 2pm Tickets: £6 / £5 conc. £3.70 children. Film – A retired spy is called back into action! to 24 December
Hansel and Gretel – The Berry Theatre, Wildern Lane, Hedge End www.theberrytheatre.co.uk 01489 799 499 16
Families Solent West
Starts at Various Times.Tickets: £10/£8 conc. Special Family Offer: four tickets for £32 five for £40. School Booking: £7 plus. A delicious festive treat for all the family! Follow our trail of breadcrumbs into the woods for an all-you-can eat feast of festive fun with lashings of music, magical puppetry and laughs for all the family. to 24 December
14 November ‘Away in a Manger’ – The Manor Farm Nativity Manor Farm Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm 01489 787055 Using live characters and a selection of favourite carols, the nativity story unfolds on a 30 minute guided farmyard tour, followed by a chance for children to meet some of the farm animals. The evening tour begins with mulled wine or squash and a festive mince pie on arrival in the farm reception theatre. Suitable for ages 5+. Time: 6.15pm & 7.30pm each evening (includes refreshments on arrival) Price: Adult £7.50, Child £5. Admission by advance ticket only. & 15 December
16 December The Lord Lieutenant’s Christmas Concert 7pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Popular Christmas carols and reading presented by Alan Titchmarsh and featuring the Cathedral choir.
17 December Christmas Celebrations Beaulieu, National Motor Museum www.beaulieu.co.uk/beaulieu-events 01590612345 Christmas at Beaulieu is a time of magic with fun, activities and entertainment for all the family. Children can delve into a ‘Box of Delights’ and dress up in period costumes while in the Lower Drawing Room there will be carol singing around the grand piano for everyone to enjoy in Palace House. As well as the splendid Victorian-style decorations around the house and the magnificent Christmas tree in the Upper Drawing Room will add to the flavour and charm of the season. In the National Motor Museum, the Victorian theme continues as visitors can see what driving was really like in those early days. to 2 January 2012
Father Christmas Grotto Basing House, Barton’s Lane, Basingstoke RG24 8AE www.basinghouse.org.uk
Exbury Santa Specials Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway www.exbury.co.uk 023 8024 5750 Wrap up warm and join in Christmas festivities at Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway in the New Forest. A musical train ride awaits, through wintery gardens with seasonal characters – reindeer and snowmen – to spot along the way. There’s hot punch for adults and a festive chocolate for children. All children visit Santa’s Magical Grotto for a personal family meeting with Santa, where they will receive a quality giftwrapped present. Lots of free photo opportunities with Santa, snowmen and reindeer to take away lasting memories. to 20 December
See Santa on a steam train Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk Advanced booking: 01962 733810 Various times. Tickets £15 adults & children. Join Santa as we steam on a 1 hour RETURN journey through the scenic Hampshire countryside. & 18 December
19 December Children’s Christmas Crafts 11am-3pm (timed ticket on the day) Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 enquiries Enjoy making Christmassy things and other decorative crafts with natural materials from the Gardens to take home. Free with normal admission (kids free) to 23 December
Storytelling: The Christmas Story 12:30-12:45 www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Take a few minutes out of the busy preparations for Christmas to hear this wonderful story from different parts of the world. Open to children of all ages. to 22 December
Cathedral Carol Services 6.30pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk All are welcome to our public Carol Services, sung by the Cathedral Choirs. Free tickets to the first service will be available from the Cathedral Box Office from 14 November. No tickets are required for 20th & 22nd, however it is advisable to arrive in good time to have the best chance of getting a seat.
20 December Children’s Christmas Holiday Activities 10am – 12pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Fun activity centred on the Cathedral and Christmas. Children aged 7-14 can make Christmas gift bags to take home. & 22 December
Children’s Willow Workshop Lepe Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/lepe 02380 899108 A willow weaving workshop for kids. Make a Christmas decoration and rustic gifts to take home and help us make a large willow sculpture. Time: 10am-12pm. Price: £4 per child, children under 8 must be accompanied. Booking essential.
21 December See Santa on a steam train Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk Advanced booking only: 01962 733810 Various times. Tickets £15 adults & children. Join Santa as we steam on a 1 hour RETURN journey through the scenic Hampshire countryside. to 24 December
22 December Cathedral Carol Services 6.30pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk All are welcome to our public Carol Services, sung by the Cathedral Choirs. Free tickets to the first service will be available from the Cathedral Box Office from 14 November. No tickets are required for 20th & 22nd, however it is advisable to arrive in good time to have the best chance of getting a seat.
Candlelit Suppers 8:00pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk After the Cathedral Carol Service, treat yourselves to a beautiful candlelit supper at the Cathedral Refectory. All those with supper tickets will be guaranteed a seat at the Carol Service.
23 December Britten’s Ceremony of Carols 1pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Sung by the girl and boy choristers.
29 December
Please see website for more details. Meet Father Christmas in the delightful setting of Basing House. £7 per child aged 0-15 yrs which includes a good quality gift. Parents/ Carers/ Adults are FREE. Please pre-book your time via telephone or email basinghouse@hants.gov.uk
Candlelit Suppers 8:00pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk
Dolphin Tale – The Berry Theatre, Wildern Lane, Hedge End 10am www.theberrytheatre.co.uk 01489 799 499
After the Cathedral Carol Service, treat yourselves to a beautiful candlelit supper at the Cathedral Refectory. All those with supper tickets will be guaranteed a seat at the Carol Service.
All tickets £2. 2pm Tickets: £6 / £5 conc. £3.70 children. Film – Rescued and transported to the Clearwater Marine Hospital, the dolphins fight for survival has just begun.
to 18 December
& 20 December
& 30 December
& 20 December
November – December 2011
What's On November – December 2011
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Getting to Grips with Sensory Play By Sue Gascoyne (BA, MA, MRTPI), What you will need... ■ A sturdy basket, ideally round, straight-sided measuring 26-36cm across and 13cm deep. ■ A collection of interesting objects, e.g. rubber plug, spoons, napkin ring, shell, large pebble, etc. Pick objects for child-size hands and include a mix of wood, metal, cardboard, fabric, shapes and colours to appeal to all the senses.
What to do... ■ Clear the area of toys and put the Treasure Basket on the floor. If appropriate, position cushions to support young babies. ■ Sit nearby and watch what your child plays with and how? Depending upon their age they may explore each object one at a time; use two or more objects together, e.g. putting an object in a tin to make a shaker; use the objects for building towers; or rustle up a fabulous imaginary feast. ■ Simply sit and watch to discover interests and developmental milestones. (Adult supervision is needed.)
How children benefit? ■ Increases concentration and focus. ■ Develops muscle strength and skills. ■ Gives meaning to words, e.g. soft, heavy, cold, rough. ■ Encourages problem-solving and creativity.
B
eing a parent can be one of the most rewarding jobs in the world, yet one of the most demanding! As an early year’s trainer and parent, every day I come across potential conflicts between the glittering ‘ideal’ of parenthood and reality. Take sensory and messy play – most children are hardwired to get the most from resources like mud and water, but as adults we can struggle to appreciate their appeal, as well as finding time in our busy lives and embracing the mess and dirty clothes! Growing up in London, the youngest of three and only girl, mine was a very different childhood to my husband-to-be. With daily adult-free adventures in rural Norfolk, spent exploring in woods, on boats or bikes, his was the childhood of my Swallows and Amazons fuelled imagination. According to the Sensory Play Research project my husband was not alone, with over 60% of adult’s most vivid childhood play memories involving sensory-rich play outdoors, making mud pies, building dens and climbing trees. 82% of adults feel that play has changed, with time, fear of stranger danger and screen-based competition, at the heart of this. Nowadays, adult-free experiences like these are harder to offer, but if we make time for sensory-rich play it reaps rich rewards, being hugely satisfying and good for children as each sensory experience creates vital connections in the brain.
■ Develops connections in the brain.
What else can I do? Once your child/children have had plenty of opportunities to explore the Treasure Basket, you could offer some of the objects next to a container of sand or water to see if and how this changes play. Be prepared for play lasting an hour or more and heaps of problemsolving, discovering, experimenting, pretending and creativity.
Treasure Baskets – a sensory feast Offer sensory-rich experiences doesn’t just mean play outdoors. A Treasure Basket, quite literally a basket of household and natural objects, can happily engage young babies through to six year olds (and older). The secret lies in the fact that this collection of what adults may see as just everyday objects, becomes a basket of awe and wonder with limitless possibilities. As there are no actual toys, a spoon can be a wand or microphone and a purse a dolls bed, rocket, boat or host of possibilities! Children can explore, problem solve, create and discover to their hearts contents as there are no right or wrong ways of playing. 18
Families Solent West
November – December 2011
Play Snapshot A three year old boy plays outside with sand, a plastic digger and toy cement mixer. After a few minutes he draws a Treasure Basket near and begins using some of its objects for deeply focused play. In just one hour he explored cause, effect and gravity (the sand falling through the tea strainer holes); problem solving (discovering that if he speeded up the action he could catch some sand); the patternmaking potential of sand (pressing a bath plug into a mini-bucket of sand); big and small and volume (transferring the sand to different sized containers). Meanwhile the digger and cement mixer were left untouched.
Tips for adding sensory interest ■ Add dried rice, glitter or sequins to sand to change its texture or appearance. ■ Add natural seedpods and clean recycled pots to give children’s imagination a free reign.
Try this activity with your little one(s): Bury some treasure-like objects, e.g. a smooth stone (for a dinosaur egg), mini-flower pot, necklace or chain (for treasure) in a container of sand to be discovered in a mini-archaeological dig. Simply saying “I’ve heard that there’s a fossilised dinosaur egg in here” can be enough to get them playing! Provide various brushes and spoons for children to experiment with discovering the treasure. Add magnifying glasses for exploring finds and magnets to extend to a mini-metal detector hunt. Talk about what happens and why the magnets did/didn’t work.
Competition
WIN! FAMILY ICE SKATING TICKETS For the second year running, the historic city of Winchester will be transforming itself into England’s Christmas Capital – complete with lantern parade, Christmas market, ice rink, independent shopping, and more. There is no doubt that Winchester holds its own with any European destination for those in search of an authentic Christmas experience. Winchester was catapulted to Christmas stardom after the launch of its two most successful festive events; Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market, which attracts in excess of 300,000 visitors each year, and its open-air ice rink. Add to the mix the city’s beautiful medieval high street decked in Christmas lights, its quality independent boutiques, homegrown pantomime, great restaurants and friendly welcome, the city challenges visitors to find anywhere more Christmassy in the UK. To find out more about the Cathedral’s Christmas events visit www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/christmas
This simple fun activity will capture children’s imagination whilst developing muscle strength, language, thinking skills, problem solving and creativity. Older children’s play may naturally evolve into guess the pattern games.
Tips for minimising problems ■ Where possible play outside so that mess isn’t an issue. This increases sensory appeal and scale, particularly for boys. ■ Provide a dust pan and brush for the children to help tidy-up. ■ Wear old clothes, so that stains aren’t a problem. The great thing about sensory play is siblings play happily together, each in their own age-appropriate way: A baby will enjoy the feel of sand and objects. A toddler may accidently create patterns and use containers for pouring and transporting. An older child will mix ‘delicious’ concoctions or develop their own games. In our time-stretched lives the biggest boost we can give to play is giving children the time, space and ‘permission’ to discover and explore simple and natural ‘treasures’ like these. Watching sensory-rich play is magical and can be fun for us too! Sue Gascoyne (BA, MA, MRTPI), has designed and run workshops nationally and internationally to help practitioners introduce learning through play. She is a published author who focuses on embedding sensory play experiences in the learning environment. Play to Z provides the Playscope range of quality playful learning resources, award winning training and research. The Playscope products are designed to expand the opportunities of sensory play with children of all ages to meet as many of the EYFS areas of development and learning as possible. For more information please visit www.playtoz.co.uk November – December 2011
Win a family skating ticket (2 adults and 2 children), worth £30. Two prizes to be won. To enter answer the following question: What two major Christmas events are held in Winchester Cathedral’s historic Inner Close. To enter any of our competitions simply email your answers to competitions@familiessolentwest.co.uk stating the name of the competition you are entering for along with your name, address and telephone number. Closing date: 30 November. Families Solent West
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Families Solent West
November – December 2011