Families Hampshire North May-June Issue 2017

ISSUE 20 | May/ June 2017

FREE take me home

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h t r o N e ir h s p m a H Local Family Festivals Summer Camps & clubs WIN a family ticket to one of Hampshire’s top attractions

THE ESSENTIAL LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR PARENTS AND CARERS ANDOVER, BASINGSTOKE, HOOK, FLEET, ALTON, BORDON & SURROUNDING AREAS

May/June 2017

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spar K NOW sholt .ac.u k

Our independent nurseries with a highly regarded reputation for outdoor learning.

Exceptional care for boys and girls aged three months to five years of age.

C O U N T RYS

I D E DAY

13 MAY

9.30am - 4.30pm

Request a prospectus or come and visit to find out more.

Jubilee Day Nursery (full-time)

Rectory Road, Padworth, RG7 4JD 0118 970 1600 info@jubileedaynursery.co.uk www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk www.facebook.com/JubileeDayNursery

Jubilee Gems (term-time)

School Road, Padworth, RG7 4JA 0118 983 4018 info@jubileegems.co.uk www.jubileegems.co.uk www.facebook.com/JubileeGems

We offer discounts for Armed Forces and NHS workers

A GREAT FAMILY DAY OUT | LIVE MUSIC ANIMAL DISPLAYS | TASTY LOCAL PRODUCE CHEF DEMOS | HAVE-A-GO ACTIVITIES Sorry, no dogs (with the exception of recognised assistance dogs)

Race Ahead with reading!

School approved books delivered to your home.

3rd

1st 2nd

age!

High Volt Friday 26 May - Monday 5 June, 10am - 5pm

Book rental for young readers. www.readingchest.co.uk 2

Shockingly good live science shows explore the exciting world of electricity. Included in general admission.

Advance online bookings save 10%.

01962 863 791 winchestersciencecentre.org

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Hampshire North Tel: 07789 882 467 Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Advertising Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk Next issue July/ August 2017 Booking deadline 2 June 2017 Printed By Holbrookes Cover image M&Co Families Hampshire North is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hampshire North is fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. © All content copyright Families Hampshire North 2017.

Families Contents 4 Local news

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Carry on camping

5 Summer camps and clubs

11

A better way to divorce

6 How to teach times tables

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What’s on in May & June

7 Books about money

14

Competitions

8 Family festivals

Families online

www.familiesonline.co.uk Find us on Facebook for all the latest news and events in your local area North West Hampshire

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For all the latest news and events in Andover and Basingstoke

For all the latest news and events in Fleet, Hook, Bordon, Aldershot and Farnborough

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Advertise your business with us from as little as £31.20 per month and reach over 34,000 parents in North Hampshire 6 issues per year delivered directly to parents and carers in Andover, Basingstoke, Hook, Fleet, Bordon and surrouding areas.

To feature in our July/ August bumper summer holiday guide, email: editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk or call 07789 882467. Book by 2 June.

May/June 2017

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Local News Narrowboat holidays – a perfect relaxing experience for all the family Galleon Marine Boatyard is a family run business based in Odiham on the beautiful Basingstoke Canal.

Since taking over the business in August 2014, the family have focused lots of attention on the quality of their four-holiday narrowboats to ensure a welcoming atmosphere and a comfortable holiday. As endorsed by several TV celebrities, narrowboating is a relaxing but active way to enjoy the countryside and see the world from a different perspective.

It is a perfect holiday for families, couples and small groups. The boats are furnished to a high standard including newly decorated bathrooms and updated equipment in the kitchens.

If you are not sure about a holiday, why not consider a day on the canal first? You can book a day hire narrowboat, a perfect way for a family get-together with a difference, featuring a lovely under cover seating area at the front with windows that can be rolled up to make the most of the view and the fresh air.

The colourful canal-side garden area is popular for picnics with hot and cold drinks and homemade cake available. Why not encourage your family members to be more active by giving kayaking or rowing a try – there’s no need to book, just turn up!

For more information call 01256 703691 or visit the website www.galleonmarine.co.uk

Walk to School Week 15-19 May Join thousands of children across the country celebrating the benefits walking brings. We know that walking to school makes children feel healthier and happier, while reducing congestion and pollution outside the school gates. Yet less than half of primary school children currently walk to school. Living Streets, who organise the annual event want to reverse this decline and see every child that can, walk to school.

Beanstalk Kidz Parties are an exciting children’s party company offering a wide range of top quality parties to suit your theme. They have a spectacular range of princess, superhero, fairy, mermaid, pirate and TV/film character entertainers and mascots available, making your child’s dreams really come true. Party favour boxes are also available.

Call 07876 792187, email: kidzparties@btinternet.com or visit www.beanstalkkidzparties.com for more information.

The Great Brick Safari: An Interactive Experience with LEGO® Bricks exclusive to Marwell Zoo Marwell Wildlife is to become the first UK zoo to host a collection of giant LEGO brick animals. This summer over 80 stunning sculptures, representing 25 different species, will be installed at the Hampshire attraction, offering an exciting and unique trail to connect children with nature.

Over 2 million bricks will be used to make the sculptures, which are being created by Bordon-based LEGO building company Bright Bricks. Among them will be a 1.5 tonne elephant, a life size Bengal tiger and a trio of Giant panda cubs. Other sculptures will be inspired by Marwell’s own diverse collection of animals.

James Cretney, Chief Executive of Marwell Wildlife said: “Families love being around nature at Marwell and the LEGO brick trail will be a fun and engaging way of highlighting some of our really important species, as well as welcoming some exciting new animals to the zoo!”

The Great Brick Safari will run from 1 August - 1 October. www.marwell.org.uk

The perfect place to enjoy the Basingstoke Canal

www.livingstreets.org.uk

www.beanstalkkidzparties.com Contact Chief Beanstalk Climber Kathryn on: 07876 792187 or 01428 608301 or email: kidzparties@btinternet.com

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Would you like to receive copies of Families Hampshire North Magazine?

Call us on 07789 882467

Narrowboat Holidays Narrowboat Day Hire Kayaks, Canoes & Row Boat Hire

Refreshments & Picnic Area Opening Times 10am to 6pm 7 Days, March to October

Galleon Marine, Colt Hill, Odiham, Hants, RG29 1AL Opposite the Waterwitch Pub

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Summer clubs, classes & holiday camps Jubilee Jets School Holiday Club and Jubilee Cadets Woodland Holiday Club

Jubilee Cadets 14th July - 5th Sept Jubilee Jets 24th July - 1st Sept The highly-regarded independent Jubilee nurseries also provide holiday care for primary school aged children. They create a welcoming environment where children are treated as individuals and can make new friends or join up with old ones for a huge variety of activities; from baking, crafting, and team games to imagination-fuelling creative play.

Outdoor-based Jubilee Cadets covers the private and state school holidays and is set in stunning woodland with caring camp leaders. Children can run free and enjoy natural pursuits - from building dens, natural arts and crafts, bug hunts and exciting team games.

Both are open Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm. (Jets operates during West Berkshire holidays and Jubilee Cadets covers both state and independent holiday times). Half and full days available. Childcare vouchers accepted. Ofsted registered.

To find out more or to book online, go to www.jubileejets.co.uk or www.jubileecadets.co.uk

All Stars Cricket register your child today

Three and five day summer courses with Perform

Beauty and the Beast, ages: 4-7 Various dates in July and August This summer, your child could be acting out the classic Beauty and the Beast fairytale on one of our three or five day courses. Venturing into the Spooky Wood and exploring the grand Palace Of Dreams, they’ll learn songs, rehearse dances and put together scenes that tell the story of how Beauty met the Beast.

Your local venues: Basingstoke - Hatch Warren Community Centre, RG22 4XF Bramley - Clift Meadow Pavillion, RG26 5BH Fleet - Zebon Copse Centre, GU52 0ZE Hook - Hook Community Centre, RG27 9NN Zak & Zara’s Cyberspace Adventure, ages: 7-12 Various dates throughout July and August Dance, sing and join the fun this summer. In Perform’s five day courses for 7-12 year olds, your child could rehearse and perform a specially written funky show exploring online safety.

Your local venues: Bramley - Clift Meadow Pavillion, RG26 5BH Fleet - Zebon Copse Centre, GU52 0ZE Call 020 7255 9120, email: enquiries@perform.org.uk or visit www.perform.org.uk/holidays for more information and to book a place.

All Stars Cricket gives girls and boys from the ages of five to eight an opportunity to become a star. The national programme is delivered across over 50 fully accredited All Stars Cricket centres in Hampshire.

It is a fun and active way to develop your child’s skills, and through our eight-week programme they will learn how to catch, throw and hit moving balls – as well as make new friends – in a safe and inclusive environment.

Each registered child will receive a pack of cricket goodies including a cricket bat, ball, backpack, water bottle, personalised shirt and cap to keep so that they can continue their love of cricket when they go home.

The programme starts on the 19th May, dates and times vary depending on the centre. For further information, including your nearest centre and to register visit - allstarscricket.co.uk May/June 2017

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Education

times tables

Hands up who got their iPhone out the last time they had to add anything up? You’re not the only one. Relying on a calculator is easy and convenient but getting to grips with maths and, in particular, times tables, is vital for children if they are to succeed at school.

How to teach your kids.......easily Start with the twos

Adding two to a previous number is something most children will find achievable in primary school and this sets up a pattern for learning about the other times tables. The 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 pattern has an easy rhythm to help children remember it.

Apply it to real life

If times tables is something your children can apply to daily life, they will show much more of an interest. Instead of testing what they know, be playful about it when you’re at the supermarket and they’re helping you with the shopping (it can happen sometimes!). If you’re buying loose fruit and veg, ask them if they know what the price would be if you bought three instead of two.

Find out what works best for your child

Like anything with children, once you discover what works best for them – stick to it. If your child learns best using visual aids then go down that route. If, on the other hand, listening and chanting helps them learn, then explore the different types of apps available on the iPad or computer and try downloading some of them. It may be a good idea to keep these activities supervised so that if your child does make a mistake and comes up with a wrong answer, you are on hand to explain where they may have gone wrong and encourage them to try again.

Helping your little ones at home and doing some extra work to ensure they feel confident in their learning can almost be as important as what they do in the classroom. It can, however, be tricky to navigate the teaching journey when you’re not actually a teacher.

The thing that can really turn children off learning their times tables is the practise it will take. Mixing up the way they spend their time practising is important for sparking their interest and holding their attention. Here are some top tips to help you.

What should they know?

How and what children learn in primary school sets them up for success in secondary school. If the foundations are in place for them to be able to work out an equation like 3x6=18 without using a calculator, then they will find it easier when it comes to tackling harder arithmetic. The education curriculum changes, but at the moment, children are required to know 12x12 by the age of nine.

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Come on, admit it; everyone has a favourite times table. It’s probably your favourite because you find it the easiest to remember or you like the pattern. Picking up on things like this will make it easier for your little ones to learn. The 9 times table has one of the easiest patterns to remember because, whilst the tens go up each time, the other number just goes down; 9, 18, 27, 36, 45, 54, 63, 72, 81 and 90.

Don’t bring your own feelings into it Teaching methods have changed a lot since us parents were learning our times tables.

Your children are probably learning in a completely different way now so chances are that you may have to brush up on your arithmetic too. Ordering yourself something like Maths for Mums and Dads could help if you are feeling outside of our comfort zone when you’re topping up the teaching at home. Discovering new ways of learning can make it fun for both of you.

Build their confidence

There is more to maths than arithmetic and it’s important that your little ones don’t lose interest in maths as a subject because it feels too difficult or seems too time consuming. Break down learning into bite-size chunks and make it as playful as possible. Encourage your children and praise them for trying when they do. Show them how far they have come since last week or last month and this should spur them on to keep improving.

Explore Learning offer their top tips for learning times tables Learning times tables is a key milestone in every child’s schooling, but for some it can be a real hurdle to overcome. At Explore Learning we work on building a great attitude towards learning, so our members are confident to take on challenges whether this is a specific times table they find hard or any new maths concept that they need to persevere with. Here are a few top tips you can try with your child to help build their confidence: •

Learning something new alongside them, to show you find things challenging as well.

•

Learn through play or songs. Playing games like SumFun or using apps like Maths Rockx turns learning into an enjoyable experience.

•

Praise them for their attitude towards learning, having a go and noticing where they’ve gone wrong, rather than just for getting things right.

•

Find ways to help them break down problems to make them easier, for example if they find the 8 times tables challenging, but know their 4s then they just need to double the answer to the same question in the fours.

•

Many children see each set of tables in isolation so they think they don’t know the 7 times tables, when they’ve mastered many of the others. If they know the 1,2,3,5,9,10 and 11 times tables then they already know the majority of the 7 times tables. Getting them to see that 5x7 is the same as 7x5 will help them succeed.

How can you help them know it?

Buy posters of times tables or make your own; you can then stick them up throughout the house.

On the wall opposite the loo, or under a magnet on the fridge, so that they are taking it in without even realising it. You can even tape it to the ceiling above their bed so that they have something to talk about with you when you’re snuggling down, instead of a bed-time story.

Pick out the patterns

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Books

to help kids learn about money Money makes the world go around, so teaching your children the subject is pretty important! Why not read a book with them to give you a helping hand with the subject matter? After all, teaching kids finance can be difficult!

Top tips to help It’s not what you’ve got!

By Dr Wayne W. Dyer Part of a series of inspirational books for kids, this one address the topic of money and abundance – linking it to children’s earliest thoughts and perceptions of money. This beautifully illustrated book presents concepts such as; money doesn’t have to define who you are, along with it doesn’t matter what other people have. Unlike many other books on the subject of money, this one doesn’t try to teach little ones how to spend and save, instead it provides a rather spiritual approach on the matter.

Show me the money

by Alvin Hall

by Martin Jenkins

A treasure trove full of advice for parents and kids from the finance guru Alvin Hall. This book introduces children to the concept of “money makes the world go around, only if you know how to use it”.

Within minutes of reading this wonderful book your kids will be entered into the crazy world of business and economics – learning everything from the history of money to how to use it.

A hilarious look on the subject of money; perfect for kids! This thought provoking tale explains that in some parts of the world money is a stone with a hole in it, a copper slab, or a string of shells.

But one thing remains the same; money makes the world go around. And it doesn’t grow on trees! In this amazing book Jenkins looks at the history of money and how it came to be involved in the electronic banking which takes place today.

Master money the millionaire

by Allan Ahlberg

What is money?

By Claire Llewellyn

This book is great for answering kid’s questions about all things money.

From how to tell the difference between different notes and coins to how to get money and what to do with it. There’s also lots of notes for teachers and parents too!

May/June 2017

The story of money,

Master Money is very, very rich! In fact this little boy is so rich that he even smells of money!

By the age of four years old he’s managed to find buried treasure in his very own back garden! By the time he’s five, he’s found even more treasure in the sandpit at school – and by six he’s got his hands on more, yes more, at the beach! However, Mister Creep soon finds him…

Noggin and the money

by Oliver Postgate

The story of a friendly Viking, Olaf the Lofty who invents money – after all, it seems like a genius idea! However, it soon seems that money is actually more trouble than it’s worth. Packed full of beautiful illustrations this book is perfect for newly independent readers looking to learn about money.

Reluctant Readers

By Liz Walker of Reading Chest

Some children learn to read effortlessly and love every step of the journey, whilst others find it more of an uphill climb and need extra encouragement and support along the way.

Here are a few tips to help reluctant readers.

Find reading material that is of interest. It’s not all about reading the book in the school bag to tick a box. Try magazines, comics, recipe books whatever works.

Make the most of reading opportunities throughout the day, e.g cereal boxes, menus, instructions. Reading for a purpose can seem more worthwhile to a reluctant reader.

Car journeys can be filled with reading activities, such as number plate games to help with phonics for early readers. E.g Say silly sentences based on the letters in a number plate e.g. CYT - ‘catch your tomato’ to help with initial sounds. Look for signs and place names with different letters / sounds in them. Play audio books to encourage children to engage with longer stories.

Read more as a parent. Children need reading role models. If you only read for a few minutes before going to bed, it is likely that your children never see you reading a book.

Make sure you have some reading apps easily accessible. Collins Big Cat have some brilliant free story apps. Nosy Crow is another great publisher of story apps.

The ultimate challenge for reluctant readers is to get them to read for their own pleasure rather than to please parents or teachers. It is up to us to help children to develop the desire to read, not just the skills to read.

For more reading advice and access to a wide selection of reading scheme books visit www.readingchest.co.uk

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Family friendly festivals Here’s our guide to the best local family festivals this summer in Hampshire.

Nature Festival Gilbert White & The Oates Collections 27 May The day is for everyone, from families looking for a great day out to those passionate about nature and its conservation. The festival will consist of organisations such as The RSPB, South Downs National Park Authority, The National Trust, Naturetrek, Hampshire Fungus Recording Group, Hampshire Bat Group, Fresh Water Habitats Trust and Hampshire Ornithological Society to name but a few, who will be running stalls and activities. There will be interactive stalls, guided walks, nature games and activities, live demonstrations, nature exploration on the day and plenty to do for all ages. We hope you spend the day with us, learn more with each activity you participate in and find out how you can get involved in making a difference.

Basingstoke Festival offers something for everyone, so why not bring the whole family to an event near you. www.basingstokefestival.co.uk

Fleet & District Carnival Calthorpe Park, Fleet 30 June – 2 July

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The carnival opens with a great fun fair, live music and bingo. Throughout the weekend there is a baby show, prince and princess disco, car show, market, dog show and much more.

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Enjoy the Get Active Area, visit local stalls at the Community Zone and pick up a sweet treat or a delicious dish from one for the many food stands.

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www.fleetfoodfestival.co.uk

The event showcases the best in local artists alongside national and international performers and is packed with free activities for families.

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Fleet Food Festival is a culinary feast of fabulous food, cookery demonstrations, mouth-watering master classes, tasty talks, a flavourful array of family activities and an appetising menu of live music and much more.

Basingstoke will come alive this summer when the borough celebrates home-grown musical and artistic talent. The festival line-up has something for all ages and culminates in Basingstoke Live, a free family-friendly two day music festival on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 July.

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The Views, Fleet 28 May

16 June - 9 July

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www.fleetcarnival.org www.familiesonline.co.uk

More local family friendly festivals 16 & 17 June Vicky Park Music Festival, Hamble, Southampton

Vicky Park is back for a third year running, it’s a perfect way to celebrate the summer with family and friends in the tranquil surroundings of Royal Victoria Country Park. www.hants.gov.uk

Basingstoke Cheese & Chilli Festival War Memorial Park, Basingstoke 24 & 25 June The amazing Cheese and Chilli Festival will return to Basingstoke on 24 and 25 June at the War Memorial Park from 10am - 5pm. This family event will be a celebration of all things cheese and chilli with lots more going on to entertain the whole family.

Entertainments include stunt shows, live music, falconry display magic shows, Punch & Judy, Inflatables, craft tents, balloon modelling, sand art, chilli sauce competitions, and the not to be missed Chilli Eating Competition.

Real ale and cider Bars, from Downton Brewery and Worleys Cider. They’ll be presentations and demonstrations including a wine masterclass from a’becketts vineyard, chilli growing from Sea Spring Seeds and cooking with chillies from Chilli Olly.

There will even be a craft market to pick up some unique gifts.

Early bird tickets available online at a discounted rate. Check out the website www.cheeseandchillifestival.com more details.

Alresford Music Festival

22 – 24 July Curious Arts Festival

A quirky boutique festival held in the lush gardens of Pylewell Park on the south coast. Everything is just a bit curious, as you’d expect. curiousartsfestival.com

10 – 13 August Boomtown, Winchester

Boomtown is one of the UK’s most innovative independent festivals offering its 60,000 attendees a fully immersive, theatrically-led experience, with hundreds of actors bringing the nine uniquely themed districts to life along with the mega stage sets, it is a festival experience unlike any other. www.boomtownfair.co.uk

25 – 27 August Car Fest, Laverstock Park Farm, Overton, Basingstoke

Music line-up includes Manic Street Preachers, Seasick Steve, Tom Odell and Rick Astley. Step into our magical world and discover dance workshops, custard pie fights, a ‘car’-nival parade, pig racing, a vintage steam fair and everything else you could find under the rainbow. www.carfest.org

27 August Graze Festival, Humphrey Farms, Twyford, Winchester

Graze Festival is Hampshire’s finest music and food festival. Now in its third year, Graze Festival is looking raise even more money for great local groups and charities. Explore what’s on, and join us this summer for a day of live music, fine food and family entertainment! www.grazefestival.com

Arlebury Park, Nr Winchester 10 June

Alresford Music Festival is perhaps one of the most chilled, family friendly festivals of the summer, welcoming over 3,500 festival visitors to an astonishing music and fun filled ‘party in the park’. It’s an established festival that is a little known secret gem. With five stages of live music there’s always something to see and dance to. Plus there’s a buzzing festival village, a dedicated family arena with loads of free activities to try. www.alresfordmusicfestival.com

Nature Festival below the hanger and beyond

Sat 27 May 2017 from 10.30am

Nature Activities

Fun for all, whatever your age!

Join our 24 Hour Bioblitz!

Help collect data with our experts for our Modern Natural History of Selborne

Nature on Your Doorstep Re-discover the world around you...

Selborne . Alton . Hampshire . GU34 3JH

www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk

May/June 2017

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Carry on camping Getting closer to nature and spending time as a family away from work and technology are great reasons to take a family camping trip. Now, a recent study has found that a weekend under canvas can help re-set your body clocks and improve sleeping habits too.

• •

If there’s one thing that exercises us parents more than stressing about how much time our children spend indoors using gadgets, it’s our own lack of sleep.

•

So what’s stopping you dusting off that old sleeping bag and getting your pitch booked? If you’re still feeling tent-ative (ho ho!)

Here are a few pointers…

•

•

Pack these luxury items to make the experience ex tra special fo r everyone: Hot chocolate Bunting Magazines Gin and Tonic

Take a trilby, peak cap and/or umbrella An extra gazebo for eating in and playing games can be a god send in the rain and means that your sleeping tent won’t get trashed with muddy feet.

Card games like UNO, Whot! Or Dobble go down well, as does a good Roald Dahl.

Before you go, research where the local museums and cinemas are.

Go swimming. If you can’t beat it, join it – and the beauty is you can use the showers and changing facilities to get clean and dry.

Snug as a bug in a rug…..

Re-setting your body clock is one thing, but you want to make sure you sleep well while you’re camping too. Keeping warm is key.

• • • •

Make sure you are protected from the cold from the ground.

Invest in a good quality thermal mat.

Go for bedding that works for you. If you don’t like sleeping bags, take your duvet.

Calories keep you warm. Eating something before you go to sleep can really help in warming you up and keeping you warm into the night.

Wear layers and keep your head warm. Some sleeping bags are designed to go over your head, but if you’re not keen on that then wear a fleecy hat and get the kids to do the same.

Let there be light…

Head torches are a great idea. Kids love them and they mean you can be hands-free for toilet trips, getting dressed, eating and reading. A torch that hooks onto the top of the tent is also useful so you can find your bits and pieces and play games. Glow sticks outside are great for spotting kids in the dark.

If it does rain….

It’s almost inevitable that the good old British weather will throw a few raindrops your way, but snuggling inside with a pitter patter overhead is all part of the experience, and it’s not miserable if you go prepared.

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Easycamp holidays at Lepe Beach Campsite Lepe Beach Campsite, new for 2017, only yards from the beach, is a traditional camping field that offers nothing flashy but, instead, focuses on doing the basics well. Facilities are immaculately kept, pitches are flat, well-maintained and campfires are permitted with pits available to hire and wood for purchase. Caravans are not permitted, giving the whole campsite a more peaceful, informal ambience – you can pitch where you like with enough space that you needn’t tread on others’ toes – and if you really can’t bear roughing it, there are pre-furnished tents which include camp beds, camping chairs and plenty of cooking utensils.

The campsite backs onto Lepe Country Park where there’s a large picnic area, climbing frame and swings for little ones to roam.

Really, the country park and the campsite seem to roll into one, making it a thoroughly family-friendly location, with the added bonus of Lepe Beach Café and Shop down on the waterfront, which serves afternoon tea and delicious hand-made cakes. Plus, the views from Lepe Beach Campsite’s are picturesque, taking in the Isle of Wight and, to the east, the marsh and sand flats of the Solent National Nature Reserve.

visit www.eazycamp.co.uk for more information or to book. www.familiesonline.co.uk

A ‘better way’ to Divorce Mediation and the Collaborative Family Process are ways to resolve matters surrounding a separation or divorce without resorting to Court proceedings, which can be time consuming, costly and confrontational.

Ann Davies and Laura Bell at Lamb Brooks Solicitors in Basingstoke are both Resolution members. Resolution advocates a constructive and non-confrontational approach.

For many couples, particularly those with children, it can be better to avoid Court hearings and the added stress that can bring to families. Some couples have already been living separately for some time and it may be that their circumstances are perfectly amicable therefore there is no need to add the animosity the Court room.

The Collaborative Family Process enables couples to work together with their specially trained collaborative family lawyers through a series of meetings to reach agreement.

The Collaborative Family Process is unique in that everyone, including the collaborative family lawyers, sign a binding agreement at the outset of the process confirming that they will not go to Court.

For further information or to book an appointment with Ann or Laura, please contact Julia McGuigan on 01256 305596 or email julia.mcguigan@lambbrooks.com.

Things I wish I knew when I was getting divorced 1.

Find a solicitor that is right for you. At Lamb Brooks we are Resolution members, which means that we promote dealing with divorce in a constructive and nonconfrontational way.

2. Be aware of divorce myths! Often people look on the internet for legal advice and fall into the trap of believing what they read online. There are lots of myths that surround divorce – for example, contrary to what is reported; especially surrounding celebrity divorces, there is no such thing as a “quickie divorce”. It is important that you receive accurate legal advice, and at Lamb Brooks we offer an initial fixed fee appointment which is a helpful starting point to know your rights and options.

3. Get the emotional support that you (and your children) need. We will be able to recommend you to local counsellors, family therapists and support groups that you may find to be a huge help when going through emotional turbulent times. Our Family Solicitors are always warm and approachable if you have any concerns.

4. Know your options. The first thing that springs to mind when thinking of divorce is often Court rooms and expensive legal bills. But there are alternatives such as Mediation and the Collaborative Family Process. Going to Court should only really be considered as the last resort, and we find that dealing with matters using these other processes is far more effective from both a cost and emotional perspective.

For a fixed fee appointment, contact our family team today on: T: 01256 305596 E: julia.mcguigan@lambbrooks.com

Our dedicated family team offer practical solutions for: Pre Marriage Agreements Civil Partnership Agreements Cohabitation Civil Partnership Dissolution Divorce and Separation Children Matters Financial Disputes Injunctions Mediation Collaborative Family Process

May/June 2017

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Your essential guide to family events this May and June.

We take great care in compiling our events guide, but please check with the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

For more inspirational ideas and fun days out near you visit our website www.familiesonline.co.uk

with a superb falconry display There will be an impressive banquet as well as jesters, jugglers, storytellers and more, to entertain you for this fantastic evening event.

Most authentically dressed couple on the evening will be crowned king and queen and will win a prize. Dressing up is encouraged and the most authentically dressed couple on the evening will be crowned King and Queen and will also win a Bird of Prey Experience for two.

Throughout May & June Naked Basing House Tour Basing House Basingstoke, RG24 8AE

Naked Basing House tour - Not what you might think it would be. Every Thursday until 23 October, the ‘Naked Basing House tour aims to encourage you to imagine what you think the “Palace” of Basing House was like in all its Tudor pomp.

Throughout May & June Gruffalo Spotters Trail Alice Holt Forest Surrey, GU10 4LS

Bring the Gruffalo and other characters to life at Alice Holt Forest. Download The Gruffalo Spotter app at home, then visit Alice Holt Forest. Along the trail look out for clues which lead to footprint marker posts - point the app at these and watch Mouse, Fox, Owl, Snake and the Gruffalo appear before your eyes! It is aimed at younger children, but the whole family can enjoy following clues and collecting evidence.

6 May Construction Club Yateley Library Yateley , GU46 6NL

10am - 12.30pm. Free Do you love making things with Lego/Duplo® bricks? Come along to the Construction Club on the first Saturday of the month.

13 May Hatherden Fete & Fun Dog Show Tangley Village Hall Wildhern SP11 0JE

11 May Baby Rhyme Time Fleet Library Fleet, GU51 4BX

9.45am Weekly Rhymetime Every Thursday. No need to book - just drop in. Rhymes and Songs for Children aged 0-2.

11 May Open Evening St Nicholas’ School Fleet, GU52 0RF

6-8pm An independent day school for boys and girls aged 3 - 7 years and girls aged 3 - 16 years.

Come along to find out more at their open evening.

12 May Bat Walk Harewood Common Andover, SP11 6WZ

Discover bats in Andover Join the Countryside Officer on a late evening bat walk around Harewood Common to learn more about these elusive creatures. Through the use of a bat detector you will be able hear the bats echo locating around you. Meet at Picket Twenty Community Centre.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

13 May Medieval Madness The Hawk Conservancy Trust Andover, SP11 8DY 6pm, £35 This special event will begin

1pm The popular Hatherden fete is back with an even bigger event this year. As well as our popular Fun Dog Show there will be BBQ, Hog Roast, bar, refreshments, tennis, live displays, kiddie jumble, face painting, grand draw raffle, bottle stall, plant stalls, bric a brac and much more.

13 May Countryside Day Sparsholt College Winchester, SO21 2NF

9.30am - 4pm The ideal family day out with have-a-go activities, entertainment, foodie treats and a spot of retail therapy and lots of entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.

14 May Kelly’s Cycle Challenge Alice Holt Forest Surrey, GU10 4LS

8am - 4pm, donations welcome The Kelly’s Cycle Challenge returns for a fourth consecutive year with more of the same beautiful routes for you to enjoy. At Alice Holt HQ there will be stalls and activities to cater for all the needs of the cyclists and spectators who come to enjoy the atmosphere and cheer the cyclists in.

14 May Appleshaw St. Peter’s Primary School PTA Family Fun Run Andover, SP11 9HR

Arrival by 10:30am, races start from 11am. 10k (Adults and 12yrs+) £13 in advance, £15 on the day. 5k (Adults & 7yrs+) £11 in advance, £13 on the day. Children’s (1k 4-11yrs) £5. Pre-school run (2-4yrs) free under 16yrs must be accompanied by an adult. To register or for more information visit www.runnersworld.co.uk/ appleshaw2017 Pre-race applications must be received by 8th May.

17 May Spring Fair Grayshott C of E Primary School Hindhead, GU26 6LR

3.30-5.30pm. Free Come and enjoy an exciting range of stalls for all ages,

Come to the (Steam) Fair!

Visit Britain’s largest working traditional steam fairground and railway, and enjoy the rides including the unique Razzle Dazzle, the world’s first ‘white knuckle’ ride.

The rides may be old but the atmosphere is cordial and ideal for that relaxed, family day out. All the rides are included in the one-off admission price, and once you’ve paid, you can come back free as many times as you like for a year!

We run as many rides as we can on Sundays.

On other days, some rides may not run and those that do may run to a timetable.

OPEN: Sundays & Bank Holiday Mondays. Daily 1-28 August (closed Mon) Gates open at 11.00 Rides from 12.30 Midhurst Road, Liphook, Hampshire, GU30 7LP Follow the brown signs. 01428 742 900 www.hollycombe.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

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High Voltage at Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium

from hook a duck and a coconut shy to zorbing and extreme trampolining, there is something for everyone!

Refreshments are available including delicious homemade cakes and candy floss so come and join the fun.

20 -21 May Steam in Minature Hollycombe - Steam in the Country Liphook, GU30 7LP

Adults £16, Children (3-5) £12, Family (4) £50 The weekend sees members and friends of the West Surrey Model Traction Engine Club join us for a weekend with around 35 miniature traction engines, from 2-inch to 6-inch scale, in steam at Hollycombe for the annual ‘Steam in Miniature’ weekend. Come along as there will be plenty to see and enjoy in addition to the normal attractions at Hollycombe, and the little engines are great for the kids to see and understand how they work.

20-21 May Live Science Shows with Jon Chase Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ

20 – 21 May Dinosaur World Anvil Arts Basingstoke, RG21 7QR

Sat 11.30am & 2.30pm, Sun 11.30pm, £14.50 Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World in this interactive new for show all the family. Grab your compass and join our intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a prehistoric world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Suitable for Ages 3+

23 – 25 May We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Princes Hall Aldershot, GU11 1NX

£13.50 Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in this funfilled adaptation. Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure; plus a few special surprises.

26 May – 5 June High Voltage Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ

10am – 5pm Get interactive with BBC science communicator Jon Chase as he explores the mysterious effects of everyday forces. Enjoy full access to the Centres two floors of hands-on interactive science exhibits, the Invention Studio and the outdoor picnic and play area.

There’s also direct access from Winchester Science Centre to Magdalen Hill Butterfly Conservation reserve for those who want to experience views across the South Downs National Park. Lives shows at 11am 12.30pm, 2pm and 3.30pm.

Show tickets cost £1 on top of general admission.

10am – 5pm An exciting exploration of electricity in these supercharged live science shows and electrifying demonstrations.

Enjoy full access to the Centre’s two floors of handson interactive science exhibits, the Invention Studio and the outdoor picnic and play area. Live shows are included in general admission at no extra charge. An extended programme of planetarium shows, including live, presenterled shows and 360˚ fulldome films. Planetarium shows carry an additional charge. Save 10% on admission if booked online in advance. Live shows at 11am, 12 noon, 1pm and 2pm daily.

20 – 21 May The Wizard of Oz outdoor theatre production The Hawk Conservancy Trust Andover, SP11 8DY

27 May Nature Festival Gilbert White’s House and Garden Selborne, GU34 3JH

6pm, £15 Join farm girl Dorothy on her adventures through the magical Kingdom of Oz. With the help of her dog Toto, Scarecrow, Tin Man and the cowardly Lion, can the Wizard of Oz help her or will the Wicked Witch of the West get hold of her special silver shoes? This is a fundraising event.

May/June 2017

10.30am – 5pm, Adult £7 Child £3 See page 8 for details.

27 May Adventures with Sam in Outer Space The Lights Andover, SP10 1AH

10.30am, £7 Presented by Stories and More. Join Sam as he jumps head first into a brand new

story and zooms off on an intergalactic adventure! Meet Amber the Astronaut, her space puppy Sparkle and help them complete their very important mission around the Universe!

3-2-1 Blast off! An interactive, fun-filled show with original music. Ages 3+

27 – 29 May The Big Inflatable Take Over Wellington Country Park Riseley RG7 1SP

9.30am – 4.30pm Visit the website for full details www.wellington-country-park. co.uk.

27 May – 4 June Be a Wild Explorer Marwell Wildlife Winchester, SO21 1JH

10am – 6pm Normal Admission applies Head off on a wild journey around the zoo collecting stamps of your favourite exotic and endangered animals.

Once you’ve found the hidden stamps, fill in the answers and complete your mission - you could even win an annual membership for two adults and two children! Plus, look out for new arrivals including Norbert the pygmy hippo, and the playful Amur tiger and Amur leopard cubs all growing up fast.

27 May – 4 June Summer Half Term Basing House Basingstoke RG24 7BH

11am - 4pm.

Activities and guided tours available throughout the week.

27 May – 4 June Half Term Summer Trail Hinton Ampner Alresford, SO24 0LA

10am – 5pm £1 donation per trail Pick up our May half-term trail and become an artist for the day. See our gardens and parkland from a different view and get creative.

27 May – 5 June Love your wildlife park The New Forest Wildlife Park Ashurst, SO40 4UH Talk to the keepers and find out what the New Forest Wildlife Park do for conservation. Take part in a ‘love your zoo’ quiz, £1 per quiz and everyone gets a prize! Normal admission apply.

28 May Fleet Food Festival Fleet, GU51 4AE

10am - 5pm A culinary feast of fabulous food, cookery demonstrations, mouth-watering master classes, tasty talks, a flavourful array of family activities and music.

29 May Sheep Shearing Day Cholderton Charlie’s Rare Breeds Farm Wiltshire, SP4 0EW

10am, £5 Come and see the gorgeous flock of Rare Breed sheep get their annual ‘hair cut’ and enjoy sheep shearing demonstrations throughout the day. The kids can get up close and personal and watch this intriguing ‘art’ at its absolute finest. Face painting, wool spinning displays and a delicious BBQ.

30 May Dick & Dom Live Anvil Arts Basingstoke, RG21 7QR

2pm & 6pm £14, under 16s £12, Family ticket £48 The legends of Children’s TV, Dick and Dom are about to be unleashed at The Anvil Theatre. Touring the UK in a show that promises to get the whole family on their feet, the performance will be full of madcap challenges and audience participation games that will guarantee to have you in stitches. You may get messy.

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The Tiger Who Came To Tea at The Haymarket

Austen’s passing and 10 years of the Jane Austen Regency Week. Hampshire Cultural Trust has chosen Jane Austen as their theme for 2017, under the ‘Jane Austen 200’ banner, with a range of events taking place throughout the year.

30 May Forever Frozen - children’s workshop The Lights Andover, SP10 1AH

10am - 12pm, £8.50 Dress as your favourite characters from everyone’s favourite film. Dance along and learn routines to some of the classic songs with tutor Lauren.

Suitable for ages 5-7 years.

30 May Herbarium Family Craft Day Gilbert White’s House and Garden Selborne, GU34 3JH

8am – 5pm Join us to create your very own herbarium, starting with plants from our gardens.

Herbariums are a collection of dried plants, helping to document their biodiversity and where they can be found.

Join us to create your very own herbarium, starting with plants from our gardens.

30 May Dance in a Day Princes Hall Aldershot, GU11 1NX

10am – 3pm, £16.50 This is a fun filled day with craft, drama games and lots of fun rehearsing towards a short musical performance for family and friends at the end of the day. All participants will make their own rain stick instrument to take home.

2 June Animal Party Workshop The Lights Andover, SP10 1AH

10am-4pm, £19 A must for all dance fans, and movers and shakers. Ages 6-10 years. Learn new dance moves and skills, meet new friends, build confidence and work on a number of short choreographed pieces that will be performed to parents at the end of the day.

10.30am, £4.50 We’re going to the zoo, zoo, zoo – how about you? Join us for this fun movement and music workshop with Lauren and jump like a frog, slide like a snail and leap like a lizard.

This hour long workshop is suitable for children aged 2-4 years (must be accompanied by an adult and older siblings also welcome).

30 May The Very Hungry Caterpillar The Haymarket Basingstoke, RG21 7NW

10 June Chawton village Gardens Open Weekend Alton, GU34 1SB

2pm, £12 Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the critically acclaimed production of ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show’ features a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets, faithfully adapting four of Eric Carle stories, The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse, Mister Seahorse, The Very Lonely Firefly and of course, the star of the show The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

1 June Play in a Day - Matilda Princes Hall Aldershot, GU11 1NX

10am-4pm, £19.

Learn new theatrical skills, meet new friends, build confidence and work on a short play that will be performed to parents at the end of the day. For ages 7-11.

Pre-book, call 01252 329 155.

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1 June Dancin’ in the Rain Workshop The Lights Andover, SP10 1AH

Come and enjoy a special afternoon exploring the gardens of Chawton House Library and Jane Austen’s House Museum and up to 10 other charming village gardens. Lots of entertainment to enjoy.

10 June The Sooty Show at The Haymarket The Haymarket Basingstoke, RG21 7NW

11am & 2.30pm, £13 Izzy wizzy let’s get busy. Sooty is back in a brand-new show with guaranteed giggles for the whole family. Direct from CITV, Sooty, Sweep and Soo head into town accompanied by TV’s Richard Cadell. A spectacular treat for Sooty fans old and new, plus a chance to meet Richard and Sooty after the show.

Ages 3+ .

10 June Jack & the Beans Talk The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre Bordon, GU35 0LR

2pm, Adults £6, Kids £4, Family (2+2) £18. Ages 3-7 A fresh and funny retelling of the traditional story and an ideal gentle introduction to theatre. Charming and inventive with plenty of interaction, an enormous beanstalk, bags of gold and a smelly old giant!

10 - 11 June War on the Line Watercress Line Alresford, SO24 9JG

Transport yourself back in time to the 1940’s against the backdrop of a WWII railway to experience the ‘Blitz Spirit’.

Enjoy unlimited train travel and mingle with civilian and military re-enactors. Hop off at each of our period stations to experience music, dancing, vintage vehicles and stalls selling retro wares.

16 June – 9 July Basingstoke Festival The Making Basingstoke, RG21 4AH

See page 8 for full details.

17 – 18 June Unusual Plants Fair Gilbert White’s House and Garden and The Oates Collection Selborne, GU34 3JH

Exhibitors displaying unusual plants, seeds, garden furniture and more.

17 – 25 June Jane Austen Regency Week Chawton House Alton, GU34 1SJ

Alton and Chawton are running a series of Jane Austen and Regency events celebrating the works of Jane Austen. In 2017 there are 29 events for you to choose from including talks, singing, walks, dancing, house and garden tours, embroidery workshops, cream teas, film showing, cricket, supper and music. This year marks both the 200th anniversary of Jane

18 June William Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors: Presented by the Lord Chamberlain’s Men Dummer Down Farm Basingstoke, RG25 2AR 6-9pm, adult £15, child £8.50 Bring a chair and a picnic and spend a glorious summer’s evening watching this funny, magical and fastpaced production of one of Shakespeare’s best comedies.

23 June The Tiger Who Came to Tea The Haymarket Basingstoke, RG21 7NW

Fri 1.30pm, Sat & Sun 11am & 2pm, £14.50 A musical play adapted and directed by David Wood. Based on the book by Judith Kerr, a stunning stage adaptation of the beloved tale of teatime mayhem... expect to be surprised. Running time is 55 minutes. Suitable for 3+.

24 - 25 June Basingstoke Cheese and Chilli Festival War Memorial Park Basingstoke, RG21 4AG 10am – 4pm See page 9 for details.

24 -25 June Paw Patrol Paultons Park Ower, SO51 6AL

10.30am – 4pm Normal admission applies See Paw Patrol characters at Paultons Park. No job is too big and no pup is too small for Paw Patrol, as they take a break from Adventure Bay to visit Paultons Park. See Police Pup Chase, Fearless Skye and Fire Dog Marshall at intervals throughout each day.

30 June – 2 July Fleet & District Carnival Calthorpe Park Fleet, GU51 4AB

10am - 9pm Fri, 10am - 5pm Sat and 10am -4pm Sun

Don’t forget to say you saw these in Families Hampshire North Magazine www.familiesonline.co.uk

© Natasha Jefferies

Families competitions

WIN

WIN a family ticket to one of Hampshire’s Top Attractions to enjoy this summer We are so lucky living in Hampshire and having some of the UK’s best attractions on our doorstep. We boast some of the best days out for families from theme parks to glorious gardens, adventure activities to cultural delights and historical heritage. To celebrate, we have a great bundle of family tickets for you to win to enjoy this summer at Marwell Zoo, Paultons Park, Beaulieu and The Watercress Line.

To enter this fabulous competition, go to our website; www.familiesonline.co.uk/local/north-hampshire/competitions Entries must be received by Friday 30th June. T&c’s apply and are on the website.

Here is a glimpse of what you can enjoy this summer

© Jason Brown

Paultons Park Summer Beach Party Show New for Summer 2017, Paultons Park is hosting its very own Summer Beach Party Show, running every day from Friday 26th May. Experience plenty of singing, dancing and exciting games with the brand new characters: Bruce the Lifeguard, Shelly the Turtle and Manta the Ray. These will appear alongside our entertainments crew and our brand new beach buggy!

Paw Patrol are also making an appearance on the 24th and 25th June. No job is too big and no pup is too small for Paw Patrol. As they take a break from Adventure Bay to visit Paultons Park.

Sammy and Ray is the brand new 4D Film for 2017. ‘Sammy and Ray’ tells the tale of a newly hatched Turtle named Sammy and his best friend Ray as they cruise the ocean. Be prepared to hold on to your seat and experience a unique encounter. paultonspark.co.uk

May/June 2017

Mid-Hants Marwell Zoo Watercress Line

Beaulieu

War on the Line – 10 - 11 June

Explorers Trail

Become a Time Traveller 27 May - 4 June

Transport yourself back in time to the 1940’s against the backdrop of a WWII railway to experience the ‘Blitz Spirit’. Enjoy unlimited train travel and mingle with civilian and military re-enactors. Hop off at each of our period stations to experience music, dancing, vintage vehicles and stalls selling retro wares.

Embark on the “Explorers Trail” and collect a very special souvenir explorer’s sticker to take home.

Delve into a wild journey collecting stamps of your favourite exotic and endangered animals, from big cats to giraffes, Egyptian tortoises to Siamang gibbons. Plus, look out for their playful Amur tiger and Amur leopard cubs, as well as an adorable pygmy hippo calf called Norbert.

Join living history monks in the 13th century Beaulieu Abbey and travel through time to the newly restored, working Victorian kitchen at Palace House, where you can also dress up in Victorian costumes and play traditional games. Take a journey from the dawn of motoring to more futuristic travel with a Wheels pod ride in the National Motor Museum.

Each station shows you a different facet of life in wartime Britain. Help run the recreated Plotting Room to direct our Battle of Britain pilots, dance alongside GIs and have your hair styled for the 40s.

War on the Line is as much about reliving this period as about enjoying the rush of the steam engine. watercressline.co.uk

With 140 acres of beautiful parkland to explore, play parks, a tractor train and an indoor picnic area, there’s plenty to occupy your little ones. Enjoy a range of daily animal talks and feeds including curious coatis, marvellous meerkats and our fabulous Humboldt penguins.

Experience the African wilderness with the Wild Explorers exhibit. Plus, there’s a themed play area for little legs to run wild and practice their ranger skills.

For Spring Bank Holiday Monday you can enjoy The 999 Show as it celebrates the work of the emergency services. Take a step back in time with a display of iconic historic emergency services vehicles, play CSI Beaulieu murder mystery, watch demonstrations including a VIP kidnap and extrication display, then see horses in the New Forest Agisters’ pound and dog skill demonstrations. beaulieu.co.uk

marwell.org.uk

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All Stars Cricket is a brand new initiative from the England and Wales Cricket Board aimed at providing children aged five to eight with a great first experience in cricket.

The 8 week programme is being delivered across Hampshire by over 50 fully accredited All Stars Cricket centres.

Find your nearest centre and register your child at the link below.

www.familiesonline.co.uk