Families Solent East - Issue 31 Nov-Dec 2010 by Families Magazine

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Issue 31 | November/December 2010

The local family magazine • www.familiessolenteast.co.uk

MAGAZINE

Cover photo by John Franklin, www.johnfranklinimages.com

SOLENT EAST

150

OVER FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENTS INCLUDING PANTOMIME LISTINGS & CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

FREE COMPETITION

PLUS: All the latest news and an extensive guide to what’s on in your local area.

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

Families

2 Families Solent East November/December 2010

Families Editors Letter

Welcome Just in case anyone in your household hasn’t realised, there are only 7 weekends between 1st November and Christmas. Don’t panic! There are lots of events over the next few weeks to keep the children happy. You can also keep them busy with our special section on writing to Santa.

Editor: John Franklin e-mail: editor@familiessolenteast.co.uk Designer: Andrew Mesher e-mail: a.mesher@redbackstudios.co.uk www.redbackstudios.co.uk

Apart from the usual events, this year is a cause for another celebration; the Families magazine is 20 years old! As well as print magazine, we have a lively website which often hosts great competitions, plus you can get an on-line copy of the magazine. Join the fun by visiting www.familiesonline.co.uk

FAMILIES SOLENT EAST PO Box 908, Portsmouth, PO6 9DL www.familiessolenteast.co.uk Tel: 023 9232 5005 Next issue: January/February 2011 Editorial and booking deadline: Friday, 3rd December 2010. To advertise in Families Solent East: Call 023 9232 5005 or email ads@familiessolenteast.co.uk

Finally, a big ‘Thank you!’ to all our contributors and advertisers for their fantastic support during 2010. I hope you enjoy all that winter has to offer and we’ll see you again in 2011!

Printed by Holbrooks Printers: Call 023 9233 4900, www.holbrooks.com

JOHN FRANKLIN EDITOR

Disclaimer: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at the owners’ own risk and, whilst every care is taken, neither Families Solent East nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

FREE

MAGAZ INE

mber 2010 Issue 31 | November/Dece teast.co.uk • www.familiessolen The local family magazine

SOLENT EAST

of Wight including the Isle anklinimages.com

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

Cover photo by John

Franklin, www.johnfr

Families Group: Families Solent East is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All magazines in the Group are independently owned and operated under licence.

150

OVER FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENTS INCLUDING PANTOMIME LISTINGS & CHRISTMAS LIGHTS PLUS: ALL THE LATEST NEWS

AND AN EXTENSIVE GUIDE

FREE COMPETITION TO WHAT’S ON IN YOUR

LOCAL AREA.

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

Photography by John Franklin Design by Andrew Mesher

With the Pantomime season upon us (‘Oh yes it is!’), take a look at our light-hearted history of this very British tradition. We have some fantastic pantomimes in our area and it’s a great way to get into the Christmas spirit. See our Pantomime listing in the What’s On section. As usual, there are lots of great events and activities covering both the mainland and the Isle of Wight. We also have a great competition from Exbury Gardens with the chance to win family tickets on their Santa Steam Specials.

November/December 2010 Families Solent East 3

Families

contents

CLUBS & CLASSES • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

05 NEWS Lots of local news and information including events and services.

07 CHILDCARE AND EDUCATION We focus on recycling initiatives for schools

08 CHRISTMAS FUN Lots of fun facts and advice on how to write to Santa, plus your own Wish List to cut out and send!

10 PANTOMIME TIME! We take a light-hearted look at the Pantomime.

12 WHAT’S ON Activities and events across the whole area with special sections for Pantomimes and Christmas lights.

15 CLASSIFIEDS Local products and services for you and your family.

GO FOR IT... JOIN THE BUSINESS MUMS! Working with a successful, international company, with a £36 million turnover in the UK, we are looking for open-minded and ambitious people to spearhead its second phase expansion. Working part time, £500-£1,500 pm, or full time, £2,000 £5,000+ pm, without having to compromise your current career, business or family commitments. If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment, self-employed background, would like to work from home, or feel you wish to develop an extra-ordinary income, please call Hesione Waugh on 01329 232084 or 07794127732.

4 Families Solent East November/December 2010

Don’t forget to say you saw these adverts in Families Solent East

magazine is

20 years old Families magazine is proud to be 20 years old. Today Families Solent East is part of a thriving group of franchised magazines across the UK from the Solent to Fife, but twenty years ago it was a much smaller operation. The first issue in October 1990 was a cut and paste affair in black and white— meaning scissors and glue, not copy and paste! There are now 30 editions of Families in the UK and well over 500,000 copies are printed across the group. Throughout it all, Families has remained true to the original thinking; a hands-on magazine for busy families, with useful information, centred around the local community, featuring local news, events and ‘What’s On’ for parents.

The perfect Christmas gift for busy women Boxhouse Publishing’s 2011 Life Book diary and gorgeous faux leather cover is the ideal Christmas gift for busy women on the go. Combining practicality with a touch of luxury, the A5 Life Book diary is specifically designed for women to help them keep up to speed with home, work and family commitments whilst the luxury high finish faux leather cover will keep the diary looking neat and stylish year after year. Diaries and covers are available to buy together or as individual items from www.boxhousepublishing.com

Families News

News Family

SOLEN

REPOT ERAST T

*The best Christmas ideas are often found in unusual places.* If you are looking for something a little different for that someone special, then www.hants.gov.uk/christmas is well worth a look. The website is the one-stop-shop where you can find quirky Christmas gifts and décor. It features everything from the Culture-all Passport to hampers and from Christmas trees to Christmas wreaths. It also contains useful information about the events and activities that are happening, around the county, over the Christmas period, including where the best pantos and grottos are. On the website you can even find out where to get the tideal outfit for a festive fancy dress party or somewhere to hold a unique Christmas shindig. It’s a well used phrase, but we really do think that Hampshire’s got Christmas all wrapped up! Take a look at www.hants.gov.uk/christmas

Victorian Festival of Christmas

The Victorian era is considered the golden age for Christmas as well as children’s literature and book illustration and with this in mind Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is inviting visitors to step into the magical world of the Victorian Festival of Christmas, taking place on Friday 26th – Sunday 28th November, and explore their very own Wonderland. Entering its 11th Chapter, the ‘Victorian Festival of Christmas’ will not only celebrate 150 years since the launch of HMS Warrior 1860, but also the colourful characters of childhood memories. There will be snow in the air and underfoot to recreate the festive spirit of times gone-by as visitors stroll down the Victorian Street. The aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine will fill the air, as will the sounds of carol singers, music and performances at every turn, bringing the Victorian age to life. Further information visit www.christmasfestival.co.uk

Bikeability!

This year has seen the introduction of many new forms of cycle training in Portsmouth including the Bikeability scheme. Bikeability is the Cycling Proficiency for the 21st century, designed to give the next generation the skills and confidence to ride their bikes on today’s roads. There are three Bikeability levels and children will be encouraged and inspired to achieve all three levels, recognising that there is always more to learn and to enjoy on a bike. All year 6 children attending Portsmouth schools that encourage cycling as a means of transport to and from school will be offered free places on the course. Visit www.bikeability.org.uk for more information.

National Tree Week 27 November - 5 December 2010

First mounted in 1975, National Tree Week is the UK’s largest tree celebration, annually launching the start of the winter tree planting season. Each year, Tree Council member organisations such as voluntary bodies and local authorities, up to 200 schools and community groups set up events, inspiring upward of a quarter of a million people to get their hands dirty and together plant around million trees. Please visit www.treecouncil.org.uk for more information on how to get involved and even organise your own tree-planting event.

November/December 2010 Families Solent East 5

Families News

Tree Dressing Bah, Humbug! If you’d like a change from the usual supermarket sweets, you’ll be glad to hear about the opening of the Drayton Sweet Jar. Owner, Lindsey Broad has fulfilled a childhood ambition to open this shop specialising in traditional sweets. There are rows and rows of jars, plus penny sweets to choose from.

With its origins in ancient customs, the annual Tree Dressing at the Weald & Downland Open Air Museum, at Singleton, near Chichester is a fascinating and unusual celebration of the life-giving properties of trees. Children and visitors of all ages are invited to make a lantern for the final procession. The lanterns make a spectacular display of colour and light on the trees in the beautiful parkland of the South Downs. This year’s Tree Dressing event takes place on Sunday 5th December. Visit www.wealddown.co.uk

Netball call! West Wight Ladybirds netball club are looking for more players. They meet every Wednesday at West Wight Sports Centre and there’s no need to have played for a club before. So if you haven’t played since school and want to get back into it, please contact Susanah Jennings at vicandsue@tiscali.co.uk or ring on 01983 759511.

How Much Are

Tigers Worth?

Many people are aware that the Isle of Wight Zoo has a long history of providing sanctuary for tigers. For several years the Isle of Wight Zoo has been supporting tiger conservation in India through funding projects identified by charity Global Tiger Patrol. Earlier this year the zoo received the exciting news that their current project, supporting local advocacy for tiger conservation project in Karnataka, will be expanding. The area is populated with wild tigers in the Kudremukh National Park and Bhadra Reserve, and the project leader has been working tirelessly with local people to promote conservation. The project has three main aims: Educating local people, Building a communication network that involves the whole community in spotting signs of wildlife crime and reducing conflict between tigers and humans by supporting people who want to move out of the park. This year the Isle of Wight Zoo’s contribution will increase threefold, to over £10,000. This will mean a renewed emphasis on conservation fundraising, which the team are already very excited about. Isle of Wight residents can expect to see some strange and bizarre events going on through the year, all in aid of the zoo’s flagship species. And if any individuals, organisations or businesses would like to get involved they’ll be welcomed with open paws! www.isleofwightzoo.com

6 Families Solent East November/December 2010

Open all through the Christmas period so you can take a traditional treat to the panto! The Drayton Sweet Jar, 266 Havant Road, Drayton, PO6.

l o o h c s t a e l Recyc

Families Childcare & Education

A new recycling scheme aims to raise £5m for schools through collecting old mobile phones and empty printer cartridges. 750 schools have already signed up to Support Your School, a “cash for trash” scheme where schools receive £1 for every empty ink cartridge and £3 for unwanted mobile phones. Not only is this a great way to introduce pupils to the issues involved with recycling but it also raises much needed additional income for the schools involved. The fundraising scheme will raise millions for schools as well as reducing by 10% the number of inkjet cartridges going to landfill. Support Your School is free to participate in and encourages schoolteachers, pupils, parents and the community to get involved in recycling. Visit www.supportyourschool.co.uk for more information.

Collect those pens A new campaign has been launched in schools across the country encouraging students to upcycle used writing instruments. Sponsored by Berol, Sharpie and Paper Mate in partnership with TerraCycle UK, the programme teaches pupils about sustainability while helping to raise funds for schools, charities and non-profit organisations nationwide. Collection centres will be established in 370 UK-based schools and for every writing instrument collected, 2p will be contributed to a school or charity of the participant’s choice. The collected writing instruments will be dissembled and reprocessed to make a variety of new products. Interested schools can sigh up at www.terracycle.co.uk

SOLENT EAST

November/December 2010 Families Solent East 7

hri s tm a C s

Families Feature

Fun ion of a he definit istmas white Chr le is for a sing in the UK ps ha er (p ke snow fla shower of amongst a ) and snow in ra ed mix rved falling se ob be to hours of in the 24 25th. December

ather Christmas’ reindeers are called Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, & Rudolph.

Eight of these names are taken from Clement C. Moore’s ‘A Visit From St. Nicholas’ and the ninth from the song ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’.

rkey, a ntil the tu the most goose was rved at a re se popular fa eal. m Christmas ecember he 25th D brated le was not ce of hday as the birt the year til Christ un AD 440.

t takes 4 to grow a 15 years C tree of typi hristmas cal height (about 2m ).

hristmas was banned by the Puritans un der the ru of Oliver Cromwell. le In 1647 Pa rliament passed a law makin g Christmas illegal. The ban w as lost power lifted only when th e Puritans in 1660.

e century, th n the 19th ke was ca as tm is hr C Eve. Christmas eaten on y ider unluck It was cons istmas hr C a t cu to re dawn on cake befo Eve. Christmas

8 Families Solent East November/December 2010

he Queen ’s Christmas speech was televi sed for th e first time in 1957.

aint Nicho la commonly s is identified with Sant a Claus du e to his repu ta generosity tion for , secret gi ft giving an d his kind ness to childre n.

y’s ing Crosb assic cl Christmas as” is the istm “White Chr Christmas g best-sellin l time. song of al

Victorian ostmen in e er w d an Engl ns called Robi s popularly eir uniform th e us ca be were red. Christmas Victorian n showed te of s rd ca livering a robin de the mail.

Facts

he tradition of hanging over the fir stockings eplace derived fr om Dutch children pl ac shoes next ing their to the fireplace on Eve. Stocki Christmas ngs later replaced the shoes.

he first Christmas card was designed by John Horsley in 1840 but was not sold until 1843.

hristmas Trees and other Ever greens were once thought to have mag ical power s. Using Ever gr winter cele eens in br a tradition ations is that bega n centuries be birth of C fore the hrist.

hile worki ng inventor Th for omas Edison, Ed w had lights ard Johnson m Christmas ade for his tr to the Chr ee leading istmas tree lights we know toda y.

Dear Santa, g ensure Festive advice for helpin safely ives your letter to Santa arrPole, making sure all

busy at the North Santa is extremely and wrapped for yours, are ready ing lud inc ts, en es the pr it Christmas Eve. d Santa can’t wa for all; Rudolph an e tim lly cia ing pe cit es ex is ry It’s a ve gifts. Rudolph me with all your and to land at your ho ts you kindly leave rro ca to eating the looking forward e for Santa. but maybe a mince pi s and letters now receive your card no to y him pp to ha ite is wr nta Sa ahead, please as Xm sy bu ry ve because of a er. sday 15th Decemb nd it by later than Wedne on time please se ter receives your let nta Sa re su s. en es To ng addr post to the followi 1st or 2nd class

Christmas, Santa/Father Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, SAN TA1

tween as possible, in be to as many letters d y on on ne sp ur re jo ll g wi lon Santa y for the and presents read d an me na ur yo getting the sleigh to clearly write er mb me Re e. Ev Christmas ter. address in your let your holidays. y jo en Be good and

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1. G et in the Christm as mood and put on some Christmas music. 4. Tell him how go Ask your parents od you’ve been thi for some paper and a pen. s year. Tell Santa Claus about some of the good things yo 2. Let Santa know u’ve done this ye ar. Have you been who’s writing the nice to your let sis ter ter . Of course he knows who yo or brother? Have u are! But you ne you helped your ed to let him by putting all your parents know that it’s you toys away? Santa that is writing the already knows these thing letter because he gets so many s but he likes to be letters every day. reminded. 5. NOW you ca 3. Ask Santa how n let him know wh he’s been. Santa at toys you’d like. only hears from Try to put the thing you once a year, s you really, real so before you as ly want at the k to ab p out toys, of the list. it’s polite to ask ho w he’s doing or ho w the reindeer and elves 6. Thank Santa an are. d sign your name . Give the letter to your parents to send. They’ll make sure it gets to Santa in time fo r Christmas.

Families Xxxx

THE HISTORY OF

o n t a P

are animals, boys who intelligent , Magical adventures really men… women who are and girls y reall season again. pantomime the be must It Italian to the 16th-century inly be traced back ma e and can ag gu me lan mi of nto The British pa actors. Because rmed by wandering cal acting, rfo ysi pe ph e on atr d the use g foc llin trave increasingly blems, these shows communication pro d funny costumes. an y ed com , tick slaps the Theatre Royal ck to 1773, when ba tes da me mi nto next three pa The first ‘modern’ followed within the k the Giant Killer, Jac derella. ted Cin sen d an pre e od in Drury Lan bes in the Wo Crusoe, Aladdin, Ba son bin Ro by es cad de

Did you know? e characters To this day, evil pantomim , and left the m fro ge enter the sta oing a ech ht, rig ge sta m fro ies good the ced pla tradition which always these on l hel and ven entrances to hea ge. respective sides of the sta Modern pantomime lly as There’s no such thing rea whole The e. mim ‘traditional’ panto it’s t tha is nre ge point of the adapted constantly evolved and keep up to throughout its history tes. Which tas blic with changing pu just as l stil is e mim is why panto s been. ha r eve it as ay tod nt releva Oh yes it is!

Cross-dressing oduced into Cross-dressing was intr 1880s, with pantomime around the incipal ‘Pr the introduction of the an era In l. gir a Boy’, played by very d sse dre re we when ladies an of conservatively, the sight d in cla ale attractive young fem ays alw s wa hts calf-hugging tig e figures. ffic x-o bo ell sw to guaranteed Animal magic the increasing The Victorian era saw es in pantos. rol l ima importance of an lude Jack’s inc ls ima an Famous panto and Dick cow, Aladdin’s camel mention to Whittington’s cat, not s in Boots. Pus d an Priscilla the Goose

DON

’T

PANT MISS THE DATE OMIME S WHA IN OUR T’S SECTI ON ON

10 Families Solent East November/December 2010

Family tickets to be won

Families Competition

Exbury Santa Steam Specials

Your chance to win a musical train ride through a festive light-filled tunnel and winter scenes. Seasonal characters to spot along the way! Exbury’s reindeer and snowmen will magically come to life! Visit Santa’s Magical Grotto. Lots of photo opportunities with Santa, Mrs Christmas, snowmen and reindeer, to take away lasting memories. Why not follow the special Christmas Trail around the Gardens?

The Christmas Trail is: A: Around the North Pole B: Around the Gardens C: Around the Houses Send your answer with your name, address & contact number to Families Solent East, PO Box 908, Portsmouth, PO6 9DL, or send an email to competitions@familiessolenteast.co.uk with ‘Exbury’ as the title. Closing date 26th November 2010.

CINDERELLA This Christmas, Bench Theatre presents

An original telling of an old classic Matinees: Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 December, 2.30pm Saturday 18 December, 11.30am and 3pm Sunday 19 December 2.30pm

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

Evenings: Friday 10 & Saturday 11 December, 7.30pm Wednesday 15 to Friday 17 December, 7.30pm Ticket Prices: £8.75 per person £6.50 concession

November/December 2010 Families Solent East 11

Families Xxxx

What’s On | Mainland

Where you see the logo for Hampshire’s Top Attractions remember to visit: www.hampshiretopattractions.co.uk for news, information, special offers and discount vouchers.

Lights Pa n t o Christmas • Switch Ons • • LISTINGS •

Jack and the Beanstalk King’s Theatre Albert Road, Southsea, Portsmouth. 8th DecEMBER 2nd JanUARY Starring Britt Ekland, Steven Arnold (Corrie) and Lynne McGranger (Home & Away). Fee, Fie, Foe, Fum it’s going to be brilliant fun! www.kings-southsea.com Tel. 023 9282 8282 Dick Whittington Ventnor Winter Gardens, Pier Street, Ventnor, Isle of Wight THURSDAY 9 DECEMBER - SUNDAY 12 DECEMBER A traditional pantomime for all the family. Come along on an exciting adventure, with laughter, slapstick and fantastic live music and singing! The perfect Christmas show for all ages. Performances on Thursday 9th and Friday 10th December at 7.30pm/Saturday 11th at 2.30 and 7.30pm/ Sunday 12th at 2.30pm. Box Office: 01983 857581 Aladdin Ferneham Hall, Fareham fernehamhall.co.uk Friday 10 December Sunday 2 January Peter Duncan, one time daredevil Blue Peter presenter, will star as Aladdin’s evil uncle Abanazaar with CITV favourite Chris Edgerley as Wishee-Washee. Tickets are on sale now. Call 01329 231942 Aladdin The Mayflower Commercial Road, Southampton 10th DecEMBER 8th JanUARY For this Christmas only Paul O’Grady has generously granted Ms Lily Savage a final, rare and unique stage appearance in this new spectacular version of Aladdin. www.the-mayflower.com Tel. 023 8071 1811

Cinderella: A Christmas Adventure! The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre 56 East Street, Havant, Hampshire PO9 1BS 10th DecEMBER 19th DecEMBER There will be 10 performances in all, including 5 matinees. Discount for early bookings. www.thespring.co.uk Tel 023 9247 2700 Red Riding Hood by K. Marsden & G. Rundle Memorial Hall, Freshwater, Isle of Wight Thursday 16 December - Saturday 18 December Good family entertainment in a traditional pantomime. Matinee at 2.30 pm on the 18th December. Tel. 752956 for details Dick Whittington and the Pirates of Blackgang Medina Theatre, Newport Isle of Wight PO30 2DX 21st DecEMBER 30th DecEMBER Starring from BBC TV’s Really Wild Show Howie Watkins and featuring the Islands own Samara Stanton and the Hillary Hall School of Dance. www.medinatheatre.co.uk (01983) 527020 Aladdin Petersfield Festival Hall Heath Road, Petersfield, GU31 4EA 14th JanUARY 22nd JanUARY Aladdin promises to be a traditional family pantomime with Widow Twanky, Abanazar and a whole host of characters to entertain and delight. www.wintonplayers.org.uk

12 Families Solent East November/December 2010

Southsea Christmas Lights, Palmerston Road 11 November Fireworks and Fairies light up Southsea! Musical acts, street entertainment, children’s rides, New Theatre Royal - characters from Treasure Island, Firework finale! 4.00 - 6.30pm. Check details on www.visitportsmouth.co.uk or call 023 9282 6722

Gosport Christmas Festival and Lights Switch On 27 November Starts at 5pm. See local press for details.

Gunwharf Quays Christmas lights 13 November From 6pm. Plus entertainment.

Paulsgrove Christmas lights Allaway Avenue 3 December 3.30 – 4.00pm

North End celebration of Christmas lights 17 November St Mark’s Church, Derby Road 3.45 – 5.30pm

Albert Road Celebration of Christmas Lights 2010 4 December Featuring local acts and entertainments from the Southsea Community. 4pm and 6pm in the hall adjacent to the Southsea Citadel. Check details on www.visitportsmouth.co.uk or call 023 9282 6722

City Centre Christmas Lights 18 November 4.0 – 6.30pm. Check details on www.visitportsmouth.co.uk or call 023 9282 6722 Fareham Christmas Lights switch on 21 November See Fareham town centre’s lights switched on. Firework display. Events all day 12noon - 5pm with switch on at 4.30pm West Street, Fareham Hampshire. Cosham Christmas Lights Switch On 24 November 4pm – 6pm. Pedestrian precinct. Entertainment, musical acts, children’s rides and a staged light switch on. Check details on www.visitportsmouth.co.uk or call 023 9282 6722

Events in red are for the mainland Mainland

Albert Road Christmas Light Switch On. 27 November 2010 Check details on www.visitportsmouth.co.uk or call 023 9282 6722

Ryde Lantern Parade & Festive Fun Day Ryde Sunday 5 December www.thecarnivallearningcentre.org 10am to 7pm throughout the town. Includes Morris Dancers, African Drummers, Jugglers, Stilt-walkers, Brass Bands, Bell Ringers, Choirs and Father Christmas in his Grotto. Fantastic Lantern parade and firework display at the end of the day. Cowes Christmas Carnival Cowes Town Saturday 18 December www.cowescarnival.co.uk The parade travels through various streets before entering High Street where Husky dogs will race.

Events in green are for the Isle of Wight Isle of Wight

Families What’s On

What’s On | Mainland Saturday 6 November CHILDREN’S STORYTELLING STARRY NIGHTS AND GLITTER LIGHTS. The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, East St, Havant www.thespring.co.uk Tel. 023 9247 2700. 10.30am. Every child loves a story and with The Spring Storytelling sessions the children become involved. FREE event suitable for 4 – 7 year olds. Tea or coffee and a scrummy cake available for Mums and Dads at just £2 during the storytelling. SATURDAY 6 NOVEMBER Walk the Line – sponsored walk in aid of Mid Hants Railway Preservation Society The Watercress Line, Alresford, SO24 9JG. Tel. 01962 733810 www.watercressline.co.uk Experience the railway from a different perspective by walking the ‘Watercress Line’ to raise funds for the Mid Hants Railway Preservation Society. Not only a great way to keep fit, you will also raise much needed funds to help keep the railway going and contribute to the restoration of locomotives, rolling stock, buildings and infrastructure. Don’t fret, trains will not be running during the walk!

WEDNESDAY 10 NOVEMBER Stargazing Event (incl. Telescope Clinic). Intech Science Centre and Planetarium, Winchester. www.intech-uk.com 01962 863791 Formerly known as Telescope Amnesty. Regional Astronomy Societies let you look through their telescopes and give one-to-one advice to anyone bringing their own kit along. FREE. 6:30pm. age 8+ only. WEDNESDAY 10 NOVEMBER Space lecture Intech Science Centre and Planetarium, Winchester. www.intech-uk.com 01962 863791 Planetarium Show Tour of the Night Sky. Live planetarium show about what you can see in the sky at this time of year. Running as part of the Space Lecture series. 8:30pm £6/£5 age 8+ only.

Saturday 13 November Childrens Theatre LITTLE RED ROBIN HOOD The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, East St, Havant www.thespring.co.uk Tel. 023 9247 2700 1.30pm. Two classic tales are interwoven in a fast and funny family show. Garlic Theatre entertain audiences with generous helpings of slapstick, clowning and musical delights. Puppet Theatre for all ages over 4. Saturday 13 – Sunday 14 November Christmas Market Weald and Downland Open Air Museum, Singleton. www.wealddown.co.uk 01243 811363 Find that perfect gift or treat at a traditional Christmas Market set in and around our historic buildings. Dozens of stalls with arts, crafts, food, unusual gifts and much more. Avoid the parking charges and shop in our lovely downland setting! Admission only £2.50, including access to all Museum exhibits. Saturday 13 – Sunday 14 November Fish Keepers week Blue Reef Aquarium, Southsea www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk 023 9287 5222 Come and chat with one of our trained Aquarists to find out how to become a responsible fish keeper. SUNDAY 14 NOVEMBER Remembrance Sunday Royal Marines Museum www.royalmarinesmuseum.co.uk 023 9281 9385 10.45am. We will remember them Remember those who have given their lives for the peace and freedom enjoyed by our nation today. A service will be held in the Museum grounds which anyone is free to attend. Free entry is also provided to the Museum. Saturday 20 Nov to Sunday 19 December (weekends only) Then daily until 23rd December Santa’s Christmas Wonderland Paultons Park, SO51 6AL. www.paultonspark.co.uk 023 8081 4442 Opening on 20th November, Santa’s Christmas Wonderland is the best Christmas Attraction in the South. Children meet Santa in his toy factory and receive a super present. All visits must be pre-booked.

WEDNESDAY 24 November – FRIDAY 3 DECEMBER National Tree Week Staunton Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/staunton 023 9245 3405 FREE tree related activities and crafts. Friday 26 November – Friday 24 December (Various dates) Christmas at Marwell Marwell Wildlife www.marwell.org.uk 01962 777407 Let us take you on a magical journey through Marwell Hall to meet Father Christmas, Mother Christmas and their attentive elves. Book now as places are strictly limited. Discounts of up to 40% apply for Annual Pass holders on selected dates. Wednesday 1 December Christmas Trees on sale Staunton Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/staunton 023 9245 3405 Plus a fantastic choice of Christmas decorations, gifts and stocking fillers from the Staunton shop. Friday 3 December Chichester Farmers’ Market Held in North and East Streets and trading times are 9am until 2pm. First & third Friday of the month. Farm fresh and homemade food, plants and local crafts put the fun back into shopping at the Chichester District Farmers’ Market. Support your local produce. Saturday 4 December, 10.30am CHILDREN’S STORYTELLING – Festive Fun The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, East St, Havant www.thespring.co.uk Tel. 023 9247 2700 10.30am. With The Spring Storytelling sessions the children become involved. Heart warming, winter tales with a sprinkle of seasonal cheer. FREE event suitable for 4 – 7 year olds. Tea or coffee and a scrummy cake available for Mums and Dads at just £2 during the storytelling. Saturday 4 December ‘Torchlight Search for the Missing Presents! On board HMS Warrior 1860’ Portsmouth Historic Dockyard www.historicdockyard.co.uk 023 9283 9766

Saturday 4 – Sunday 5 December ‘Life Before Satnav! At the Mary Rose Museum’ Portsmouth Historic Dockyard www.historicdockyard.co.uk 023 9283 9766 SATURDAY 4 – SUNDAY 5 DECEMBER Father Christmas at the North Pole Royal Navy Submarine Museum, Gosport www.submarine-museum.co.uk 023 9251 0354 Meet Father Christmas on a WW2 Submarine at the North Pole in Gosport, complete with snow! Father Christmas likes to remain secretive as he travels around the world delivering presents. He now uses a submarine packed with presents and his reindeer of course! Free gift for every child. Tickets Advanced £9, Family (max 4 persons) £26. On the door £10, Family £30 under 3’s are FREE. Saturday 4 – Sunday 19 December Christmas in the Park Queen Elizabeth Country Park 02392 595040 Father Christmas in his grotto with gifts, a festive nature trail, tractor ride and children s craft. This is a 2 hour activity. There will also be Christmas shopping and Christmas tree sales. Booking essential - contact the Visitor Centre. Dates are Sat 4th & Sun 5th Dec, Sat 11th & Sun 12th Dec and Sat 18th & Sun 19th Dec. £10 per child. SATURDAY 4 – THURSDAY 23 DECEMBER Country Christmas! Staunton Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/staunton 023 9245 3405 Enjoy our synthetic Ice Rink in the Barn, hang special Christmas wishes on The Wishing Tree, take part in seasonal crafts in the Elves’ Workshop, get close to our animals in the Nativity Scene and pop into Santa’s Grotto. Dates: Sat - Sun 4/5, Sat - Sun 11/12, Sat - Sun 18/19, Mon 20, Tue 21, Wed 22 & Thur 23 December. Child £12, Accompanying Adults £8.95. Tickets MUST be booked in advance on 023 9245 3405 or at our Visitor Centre.

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What’s On | Mainland 4, 5, 11, 12, 18-24 December Santa Specials The Watercress Line, Alresford, SO24 9JG. Tel. 01962 733810 www.watercressline.co.uk Board the steam hauled ‘Santa Special’ and meet Santa himself! Santa will give EVERY child a gift in a special souvenir Santa sack. Children will also receive a soft drink and adults a glass of wine and mince pie!. Santa Special Fares Adult £13, Child (1-16) £13, Baby (under 1 year) £6 Sunday 5 December Tree Dressing Weald and Downland Open Air Museum, Singleton. www.wealddown.co.uk 01243 811363 A wonderful celebration for all the family of the life-giving properties of trees. Make a lantern (bring a jam jar!), and join the procession to dress the trees as darkness falls. Plus headdress making, music, dance and seasonal tasty treats. SUNDAY 5 DECEMBER Astronomy Day Intech Science Centre and Planetarium, Winchester. www.intech-uk.com 01962 863791 6:30pm £6/£5/£3 Events for keen amateur astronomers. All details tbc, please check back closer to date. Sunday 5 December Angel and Fairy Festival Petersfield See local press for details. Saturday 11 December ‘Torchlight Search for the Missing Presents! On board HMS Warrior 1860’ ‘Fit For A King! At the Mary Rose Museum’ Portsmouth Historic Dockyard www.historicdockyard.co.uk 023 9283 9766

Saturday 11, Sunday 12, Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 December Father Christmas Grotto Milestones Museum, Basingstoke www.milestones-museum.com 01256 477766 A visit to Father Christmas in his Grotto costs £3 per child aged up to 15 yrs, tickets can be purchased from the ticket desk on arrival. Normal admission charges apply. Sat 11, Sun 12, Sat 18, Sun 19, Mon 20, Tues 21 December Exbury Santa Steam Specials Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway www.exbury.co.uk 023 8089 1203 Join in Christmas festivities at Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway in the New Forest. A musical train ride awaits with seasonal characters to spot along the way. Hot punch for adults & a festive chocolate for children. All children visit Santa’s Magical Grotto and receive a quality gift-wrapped present. Lots of free photo opportunities with Santa, Mrs Christmas, snowmen and reindeer, to take away lasting memories. Follow the Christmas Trail around the Gardens. Pre-booking essential. Friday 17 December ‘Victorian Christmas Evening on board HMS Warrior 1860’ Portsmouth Historic Dockyard www.historicdockyard.co.uk 023 9283 9766 Saturday 18 December – Sunday 2 January 2011 Victorian Christmas Palace House, Beaulieu, SO42 7ZN www.beaulieu.co.uk Phone: 01590 612345 A glimpse of Christmas Past in a Victorian country house. Dress up

in period costumes. Carol singing around the grand piano. Talk to characters from Victorian times to discover what life was really like ‘Upstairs and Downstairs’ and enjoy a glass of hot fruit punch. Splendid Victorian-style decorations around the house and magnificent Christmas tree in the Upper Drawing Room. Saturday 18 December – Monday 3 January ‘Family Christmas Trail at the Mary Rose Museum’ ‘Tudor Games and Pastimes at the Mary Rose Museum’ ‘Hunt The Slipper – Family Trail on board HMS Warrior 1860’ Portsmouth Historic Dockyard www.historicdockyard.co.uk 023 9283 9766 MONDAY 20 – TUESDAY 21 DECEMBER TALES OF WINTER MAGIC Butser Ancient Farm www.butserancientfarm.co.uk 023 9259 8838 1.30 – 3.30pm. Stories with Red Phoenix in the Great Roundhouse around the fire to celebrate the Winter Solstice. Book in advance. Child £10.00 (Accompanying adults free). Price includes a gift to take home. Festive Crafts. Refreshments available. Tuesday 21 December FESTIVE FUN AT THE FORT The Royal Armouries, Fort Nelson www.royalarmouries.org 10:00 to 17:00.Enjoy traditional Punch & Judy shows and Christmas craft activities – make yourself a unique greetings card or tree decoration. No need to book – just drop in! Prices Adults: £1 Children: £2.50 Family (2+4): £5 Wednesday 22 December Childrens Theatre LAURA’S STAR. The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, East St, Havant www.thespring.co.uk Tel. 023 9247 2700 1.30pm. In this magical story a lonely girl learns that friendship sometimes means letting go of your most precious treasures. Ideal for children between the ages of 3 and 7. Thursday 23 December OFF WITH THEIR HEADS The Royal Armouries, Fort Nelson www.royalarmouries.org Dress up as Tudor lords and ladies – but watch out for the executioner! Plus puppet shows and castle building contest. No need to book – just drop in! Prices Adults: £1 Children: £2.50 Family (2+4): £5.

14 Families Solent East November/December 2010

Sunday 26 – Monday 27 December WWII Christmas Leave The Watercress Line, Alresford, SO24 9JG. Tel. 01962 733810 www.watercressline.co.uk Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a Second World War Christmas, with civilian and military re-enactors, vehicles and more! WWII Christmas Leave Fares Adult £13, Child (2-16) £7, Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) £33, Child under 2 FREE 26 December - 1 January A Sussex Christmas Weald and Downland Open Air Museum, Singleton. www.wealddown.co.uk 01243 811363 10.30am - 4pm. Experience the traditions of Christmas past and discover how our ancestors enjoyed the Festive Season. Walk off the Christmas pud as you enjoy our traditionally decorated houses with their crackling log fires, with many decorated for Christmas in the style of the period when they were originally built. Also enjoy a variety of festive fare, music and stories from Tudor to Victorian times. Come and enjoy a truly merry Sussex Christmas in our beautiful downland setting. Tuesday 28 December COMMANDO KIDS The Royal Armouries, Fort Nelson www.royalarmouries.org Practice commando skills including a junior assault course, radio controlled tank driving, firing range and more! No need to book – just drop in! Prices Adults: £1 Children: £2.50 Family (2+4): £5 Thursday 30 December ROUNDHEADS & CAVALIERS The Royal Armouries, Fort Nelson www.royalarmouries.org Learn how to swing a sword and fight for King or Parliament but watch out for the gruesome surgeon with his blood-sucking leeches! No need to book – just drop in! Prices Adults: £1 Children: £2.50 Family (2+4): £5.

Families What’s On/Classifieds

What’s On | Isle of Wight Friday mornings Freshwater Country Market West Wight Sports Centre Every Friday morning, the market offers locally produced cakes, craft, preserves, plants, cards and cut flowers and home-grown produce in season. Buy local and reduce air miles! Tel. 01983 761321 Friday 5 November Guy Fawkes celebration Yarmouth Town Square from 6pm Entertainment by the Ryde Extreme Performers and Mat Wood, plus the Samba Band. Mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, toffee apples and soup available. Friday 5 November Sandown Lantern Parade Sandown Fire, lanterns and floats, plus bands parading through the streets. Procession starts at 6.30pm with grand fireworks finale at 8pm. Friday 5 November Fireworks Arreton Old Village www.arretonbarns.co.uk 01983 528353 Saturday 6 November Christmas Fair Newport Football Club, St Georges Way, Newport. All your Christmas shopping under one roof! Free entry and free parking. 10.30am to 3.00pm Saturdays and Sundays 6 Nov – 12 Dec and 8 Jan – 27 Feb Tea Room The Needles Old Battery www.nationaltrust.org.uk The tea room is open 11am to 3pm on Saturdays and Sundays throughout most of the winter providing a facility for walkers on the Needles headland (as the rest of the site is closed there is no admission charge). SatURDAY 20 – SunDAY 21 November A Victorian Christmas Osbourne House www.english-heritage.org.uk/ daysout Experience the spirit of a traditional Victorian Christmas at Queen Victoria’s family home. Delight in the magic and illusion of the side-shows, have a go at hoopla and the coconut shy and marvel at the grand house. Explore the ground floor rooms of Osborne house, adorned with festive decorations. 10am – 4pm.

4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd & 24th December 2010 Santa Special IOW Steam Railway www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk 01983 882204 Passengers are taken on a 50-minute steam train ride before entering a magical winter wonderland, where adults can enjoy a festive drink and children receive a bag of treats. The youngest visitors can visit Santa’s grotto, where everyone receives a gift. There are also various entertainers to add to the festive fun (Dates vary from 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 & 24th December) Sunday 5 December Ryde Lantern Parade & Festive Fun Day, Ryde www.thecarnivallearningcentre.org 10am to 7pm throughout the town. Includes Morris Dancers, African Drummers, Jugglers, Stilt-walkers, Brass Bands, Bell Ringers, Choirs and Father Christmas in his Grotto. Fantastic Lantern parade and firework display at the end of the day. Sunday 5 & Sunday 12 December Festive Christmas Shopping Brighstone National Trust Shop, North Street, Brighstone. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 12 noon - 4pm. Join us on these two special Sunday openings for a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie whilst doing your Christmas shopping. Thursday 9 – Sunday 12 December Dick Whittington Ventnor Winter Gardens, Pier Street, Ventnor Ventnor Theatre Group presents Dick Whittington a traditional pantomime for all the family. Come along on an exciting adventure, with laughter, slapstick and fantastic live music and singing! The perfect Christmas show for all ages. Performances on Thursday 9th and Friday 10th Dec at 7.30pm/Saturday 11th at 2.30 and 7.30pm/Sunday 12th at 2.30pm. Tickets £8.50 and £6.50. Box Office: 01983 857581 Thursday 16 Saturday 18 December Red Riding Hood by K. Marsden & G. Rundle Memorial Hall, Freshwater Good family entertainment in a traditional pantomime. Matinee at 2.30 pm on the 18th. Tel. 752956 for details Cost: Adult £6 Child £3 Family rate £15 (2 Adults and 2 children)

Saturday 18 December Cowes Christmas Carnival Cowes Town www.cowescarnival.co.uk The parade travels through various streets before entering High Street where Husky dogs will race. Tuesday 21 – Thursday 30 December Dick Whittington and the Pirates of Blackgang Medina Theatre, Newport www.medinatheatre.co.uk Starring from BBC TV’s Really Wild Show Howie Watkins and featuring the Islands own Samara Stanton and the Hillary Hall School of Dance.

Sunday 26 – Tuesday 28 December Mince Pie Specials IOW Steam Railway www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk After the indulgence of Christmas Day, settle back in a warm and comfortable Victorian or Edwardian carriage and enjoy a steam train journey through the Island’s unspoilt winter landscape... And there’s seasonal refreshments for every adult and child!

Although we aim to be as accurate as possible, the events listed on pages 12 to 15 are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Also, some events may have a charge that applies but is not recorded here. So please contact venues in advance to check full details.

Classifieds Business Opportunities

Parties

Your own home business Health, Household, Skincare & Cosmetic Products. Unique product positioning. Start free this month! Internet access required. Your own free website! www.ourhealthplus.co.uk Tel: Caroline 01271 867022.

A.I.S Limousines & Party Buses www.aislimos.co.uk 023 9235 8627. Kids parties, School Proms, Snaps Disco, etc.

CLUBS & CLASSES Melody Tots Music Group Tel: 023 9235 5584 melodytots@live.co.uk For 3 months to 4 years in Rowlands Castle. Meetings at Catherington Church Hall on Tuesdays at 9.30am. Health & wellbeing I Feel Good Weightloss Effective Products, Guidance & Support. Call Sarah or text ‘SLIMMER’ to 07773 795374. PHOTOGRAPHERS

Birthday Creations 023 9238 2694, birthdaycreations.co.uk Quality party supplies including wooden party bag fillers, party bags and cotton bunting. Ultimate Princess Party 07799 293280, 2 hours of princess fun – crafts, face painting, parade and games! Your Sparkly Party Tel: 02392 613559 www.yoursparklyparty.co.uk sparkles, mini-makeovers and stacks of girly fun.

John Franklin www.johnfranklinimages.com Relaxed family photography, event photography and fund-raising photos for pre-schools, schools, groups, clubs and organizations.

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023 9232 5005 or email: ads@familiessolenteast.co.uk November/December 2010 Families Solent East 15