Petersfield Forum - Issue 3 - December 2022

The Alresford Hearing Studio are Offering a FREE 30 day trial of the Widex Moment Sheer Edition on our Open Days

12th & 13th December.

We know that the first experience of a hearing aid is vital in setting the direction of the journey to better hearing. A negative experience can leave you wondering if you were right to try a hearing aid at all, but a positive one can make you feel more connected to your life than you have been for years.

Built around the Widex Moment ™ platform and the revolutionary PureSound ™ , Moment Sheer Edition sRIC R D hearing aid is suitable for minimal to severe to profound hearing loss.

• New visual look and Superior Sound Quality in Background Noise

• Automatic Adjustments

• PureSound – The most natural sounding hearing aid due to the new ZeroDelay Technology

• Rechargeable

• Full connectivity – To Android or Iphone

Editor Mark Tubb editor@forumpublications.co.uk

Director of Advertising Steve Walker stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

Director of Marketing Rob Harrison rob@forummedianddesign.co.uk

Advertising Manager Mandy Head mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk

Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk Contributors

Lucia Foster-Found www. luciafosterfound.com

Get in Touch

Forum Publications Offices Unit 8A, Shelf House, New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QH

Tel: 01962 735137 www.forumpublications.co.uk

The Petersfield Forum contains facts, views, opinions, statements, recommendations, advertisements and other content and links to external websites not owned or controlled by the magazine. The Petersfield Forum takes reasonable efforts to include accurate, current information on its pages, but make no warranties or representations as to the accuracy, safety or value of the published items that are displayed. No liability or responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions in magazine content. The Petersfield Forum magazine content does not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or recommendations of its creators and any reliance upon its content is taken at the user’s sole risk. Adverts designed by Forum Publications remain the magazine's legal ownership. Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household ©

Bespoke Kitchens & Furniture

Happy Kitchens have a unique approach when it comes to kitchens and custom spaces in the home. We use excellent quality materials which are fitted by exshipwright joiners, who used to fit the woodwork on Super Yachts. That in itself is unique in our industry but then add in the fact that we are bespoke, but don’t charge the inflated prices that your highend high street showrooms do, gives us the recipe for your perfect home solution. This is why we are one of the highest rated home improvement companies on HOUZZ, beating all the top names you might recognise when walking down your high street.

We have never had less than a 5 star

review and have won the HOUZZ best of service award every year since it has been running. The staff at HOUZZ reference us to other companies as to how customer service should be done. Many of our customers have used us 2 or 3 times due to moving house or tackling other projects in their existing houses.

We do not have a template for design and take a fresh approach with every customer. It is important to take all the best ideas a customer has, then bring in the experience we have to offer, and often our ideas will be completely different to any other companies as we are innovative and bespoke. We often hear that customers have had designs and quotes that all look the same, are boring and

un-exciting, yet expensive. This is because most high street ‘kitchen designers’ are just salespeople with no idea on how a kitchen works.

Bespoke sizing - Media walls, boot rooms, custom offices, installed by ex shipwright joiners with exceptional attention to detail

So whether you need an amazing Kitchen, Utility, Bedroom, coffee bar with custom pod storage, Office, Media wall or Living Room storage we can help. The design visits are free of charge, and we can quote on the same day. Also Ben loves design, so often at no extra charge, he will help you choose paint colours, light fittings, Bar stools, artwork and can even recommend great pots and pans.

“Thisisthesecondtimewehaveused HappyKitchensandonceagainweare overthemoonwiththeresults! Thelevelofworkmanshipisjust outstanding,theguyswereapleasure tohaveinthehouse,Wewon’thesitate tocontinuetorecommendHappy Kitchenstoanyonelookingforanew kitchen.Highlyrecommend!”

Anna and Hugh Cutler, May 22

Our customers will often use us again, and recommend us to Family and Friends. The quote from the review above was from a customer who has chosen us twice, and their parents also have a Happy Kitchen, and two of the parents' friends.

“HappyKitchens.WOWWOW WOW.Thankyousomuchforgiving usthewowfactorweaskedfor.”

The McAdams – June 21

The biggest compliment we get from our customers is always around our attention to detail and often bringing something completely different to the table. If you are still unsure after reading this, go and read some of our reviews on our Happy Kitchens Houzz profile, and do a search of kitchen companies on there by review rating, we are always close to the top of the list.

Out-of-the-box thinking, bespoke design features, and friendly staff with excellent attention to detail are just a few of the reasons you should call us today. If that isn’t enough please do remember that the design visit is free of charge, so you have nothing to lose.

One of the top reviewed companies on Houzz, offering free home design visits

We Whisk You a Merry Christmas

© Lucia Foster-Found 2022 www.luciafosterfound.com

The old electric hand whisk had died; some horrible disease had consumed its internal organs. As she dragged it out from the furthest reaches of the most awkward corner cupboard, bits of perished plastic and rubber dribbled out of it. At least, she hoped that it was bits of plastic and rubber and not the droppings of some appliance-eating infestation. She shuddered; not daring to plug it in, at arms length she put it outside.

Christmas had arrived. What, already? Yet again, despite her best efforts to diarise the process of Christmassing, it had sneaked up on her like a sneaky thing. And with her mental tick list of ‘must-do’s tap-tapping insistently at the inside of her skull, she now had no electric hand beater.

There was, of course, the beautiful standing mixer. Resting under its attractive cover on the work surface, it was complete with stainless steel bowl and a multitude of hooks, beaters and whisks. Bought second hand off eBay. Bought gleefully with many, many less pounds than it would have been new. Bought from someone who sheepishly confessed they’d used it once “for a bake-off with the other Mums…”

At the time, she’d carried it off so smugly. Feeling like Ina Garten she’d laughed like Blackadder’s Lord Flashheart at the ridiculous notion she’d use it only once…

But honestly… there was the assembling, the dismantling, the cleaning and the putting away; she bet Ina had staff for that. It was a faff for the quick jobs and, used so infrequently, she always felt the need to pre-wash it. Faced with Christmas cake and puddings to make, she’d once more guiltily ignored it and reached for her trusty and simple hand beater.

Himself had come into the kitchen that morning and murmured something about missing ‘stir up Sunday’ and not making a wish. “Well I haven’t made the cake yet.” In her exasperation, she was snappy. Nor the puddings, she thought, or for that matter any festive bakes.. That list again – tap, tap. There had been one brief sidelong glance at a frozen turkey in the supermarket - and a slight concern about the bird ‘flu. But nothing more; not one cracker or present had thus far been purchased.

“My mother would have had multiple Christmas puddings safely stored in the loft by now. And jars of lemon curd ready for tarts. Also a production line of pastry making and baking. Mince pies; dozens in out of the oven and cooling on racks. Made with home-made mincemeat, no less. Then there would not only be turkey for ‘the day’, but beef for

Boxing day. With a home-cooked ham for the cold meat spread on the 27th, home-made piccalilli and pickled shallots.. And me, I haven’t so much as bought a Christmas card!” She wailed.

Himself gave her a hug. “It’s exhausting just thinking about it. You should also remember that your mother didn’t go out to work. If you were at home 40 odd hours more every week, you too could be a domestic, flour-smudged goddess. And I’d be borderline diabetic.”

Good point, well made. She felt better. The list stopped tap-tapping. “Question. Out of interest, what is your stand-out memory of Christmas?” Himself asked.

She thought for a moment. “Well, it’s Christmas Eve and I’m superexcited watching a cartoon about how animals will all talk at midnight. I’d be about five.”

Himself gave her a look. “OK… here’s mine. It’s Christmas Eve. I’m six and sat in Brandy the boxer’s dog bed.”

“Because you were frightened that a red-coated, bearded stranger was going to break into your house and drink sherry?” she sniggered.

“No,” he said patiently. “I was chatting to Brandy because I was expecting Brandy to chat back. I too had heard that animals could talk on Christmas Eve. And notice that neither spookily-similar memory has got anything to do with cakes, mince pies, puddings or presents? It was purely the magic of Christmas.”

Heads full of festive childhood memories, they smiled mistily at each other for a moment. Then surreptitiously moving in front of the standing mixer whilst adding ‘selling it’ to her imaginary list, she said, “Actually, my electric hand beater thing has expired - and it was so quick and useful for doing Christmas cake, amongst other things.” The taptapping was back with a vengeance.

Himself whipped out his phone. Presently he said “new hand mixer should be here tomorrow. Let’s call it your gift from the dogs and I’ll teach them to sing “’we whisker you a furry Christmas’. On Christmas Eve. When they can talk.” He winked.

“As soon as it arrives I’ll crack on and make the cake,” she reassured, looking forward to crossing that off the list at least.

“Good,” Himself sighed. “Given the state of the world, it won’t hurt to stir the cake and make a Christmas wish or two...”

Contentious Probate & Inheritance Claims

Arguments between relatives and family members over a person’s will or their estate can be painful and deeply divisive. Areas in which our contentious trust and probate team have particular experience and expertise include arguments over a person’s entitlement to be a beneficiary under a will, where there are questions over the deceased’s testamentary capacity or where undue influence may have been exercised over them, as well as where there are questions as to the construction, interpretation or validity of a will (including advising in respect of ‘Mutual Wills’ claims).

We also act in claims over the administration of an estate, including where necessary making applications to the Court to pass over or remove Executors and deal with disputes relating to a Power of Attorney,

including applications to the Court of Protection to have a Deputy removed or appointed.

We are regularly instructed (both in bringing and defending claims) to act in cases involving the family or dependants of someone who has died where either no or inadequate provision was made for them, which can result in a claim being issued for a share of the deceased’s Estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. Our contentious trust and probate team also advises in situations where there has been negligent drafting of a will. We seek to approach cases sensitively and with care and to help our clients explore all alternative options for settlement, as well as to provide support should court proceedings become necessary. Please do contact us on 01730 268211 to speak to our litigation team if you would like our help. www.macdonaldoates.co.uk

SILK SELF STORAGE

SILK SELF STORAGE

SILK SELF STORAGE

SILK SELF STORAGE

SILK SELF STORAGE

Looking for secure storage facilities?

Looking for secure storage facilities?

Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates.

Looking for secure storage facilities?

Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates.

Looking for secure storage facilities?

Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk

Looking for secure storage facilities?

Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk

Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates.

Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates.

Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates.

Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk

Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk

Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk

Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH

Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH

E: storage@silkservices.co.uk

Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH

email:storage@silkservices.co.uk Tel: 01962 771815

T: 01962 771815

E: storage@silkservices.co.uk

T: 01962 771815

Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH

E: storage@silkservices.co.uk

T: 01962 771815

Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH

E: storage@silkservices.co.uk

T: 01962 771815

Sometimes a bit of downtime can be fun. How many of you used to play Solitaire on your computer, or Angry Birds! Games have become a lot more complicated over the years, so it is nice to find something simple and genuinely fun to play. Have a look at the Jigsaws Galore website https://www.jigsawsgalore.com. There are many puzzles to choose from and you can even make your own photos into a jigsaw.

Trackpad or mouse? Up until a few months ago I always used to use the Apple Magic Mouse with my iMac. I had tried the original Apple Trackpad a few years ago and I did not like it so I thought I would try out the latest Apple Magic Trackpad and see if I found it to be better. Since I made the swap, I have never used the mouse again. I like the tactile touch; the speed of response and I also like that it is static on my desktop. For those of you buying new Macs the Trackpad and Mouse are now available in black or white.

I will be away from my office most of December but will be responding to calls, text messages and emails and will be able to provide online support by remote connection whenever necessary. I would like to take this opportunity of thanking you all for choosing me to help and assist you during 2022. It has been a great pleasure to meet new and old customers during the last 12 months and I wish you all good health and happiness for 2023

That’s all for this month. Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions or for any advice.

Andy - Mr Mac 07392 552592

Theatre & Shows

Theatre Royal, Winchester

our Ovation Suite and be charmed by live music performed by Fame Academy finalist Chris Manning. Standard Pricing - £69 per person and includes a set 3 course meal with tea/coffee and live music. 6.45pm: Arrival, 7.00pm: Dinner served with live music, 10.30pm: Last orders at the bar, 11pm: Finish

The Spitfire Sisters' Christmas Special.

Thu 15 Dec 2022 from 7.30pm Vocal harmony trio The Spitfire Sisters can't wait to return to their home city of Winchester to share a selection of festive tunes at the most wonderful time of the year. Running time: 1hr 30mins (plus interval) Tickets from £15

Santa Saves Christmas Mon 19th December 2022

Honalee Media are delighted to present their latest Christmas production… The Santa Show 2022: Santa Saves Christmas –the show where every child gets a present. From 10.30pm, 1.30pm & 4pm. Livestream options available. Recommended age: 2-7 yrs. Running time: 45mins (plus meet and greet)

Winchester Comedy Festival: Winter Gala 2022

Thu 8th December 2022 from 7.30pm. An evening of stand-up comedy from Isy Suttie, Luisa Omielan, Josh Pugh, Tom Deacon (MC). Recommended age: 16+ Tickets from £15

The Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

Goldilocks and the Three Bears Sat 10th to Sat 31st December, Actor, singer and television star Jason Donovan will lead the cast in this year’s magical pantomime, alongside Coronation Street and musical theatre star Faye Brookes, with the triumphant return of Richard Cadell & Sooty in Goldilocks and the Three Bears. standard pricing £19.50 to £47.50. See website for performance times.

The Point, Eastleigh

been naughty or nice this year? Whatever the answer, Hundred Watt Club’s glorious gift to you is this hot toddy of a show! Jam-packed full of festive, glittering showgirls, bawdy comedy, classic vaudeville and awe-inspiring circus acts. Always seductive, always sublime and always that little bit ridiculous From. 12 noon on Saturday. Show 3hrs. Full Price: £19.00 - £21.00, Wheelchair (SD): £19.00 - £21.00, For 18+ years

Titchfield Festival Theatre

Christmas as they try to catch a glimpse of Father Christmas himself. Lots of family fun, a magical show for our younger audiences to enjoy. See website for times

The Nutcracker - Original Pantomime

Tuesday 13 th December to Friday 23rd December

Follow the story of Clara as she is gifted a Nutcracker from the magical Uncle Drosselmeyer. That night her brother is kidnapped by the Evil Rat King's stooges; Bubble and Squeak! Clara, with our hilarious Dame Mother Ginger, travel through to the enchanted realm to go and save Young Fritz. See website for times

South Coast Symphonia - Dance

Orchestra

A Very Bublé Christmas Mon 5th & Wed 7th December. Live music and dining in our Ovation Suite. Experience A Very Bublé Christmas this festive season with a delicious 3 course meal in

Wessex Dance Academy Graduation PerformanceCohort 30 Wed 7th December

Wessex Dance Academy welcomes you to see the end of a most magical journey in dance for some of Hampshire’s most vulnerable young people. Please join us to see Cohort 30’s Graduation Performance, if you’ve not seen them before then it will be a performance you will never forget. (duration 1hr) Full Price £6, Over 60s £5, Student £5, Under 16 £5

Nick Cope's Festive Family Show Saturday 17th December

Nick Cope has been writing and recording his beautiful and totally unique songs for children and their families for over 10 years, he performs with his guitar and animations to sell-out crowds all over the country. (1hr). For ages 2 years+ Full Price: £13.00, Over 60s: £12.00, Under 16 Years: £12.00

Hundred Watt Club Festive Burlesque

Friday 9th Dec to Saturday 10th December at 7.30pm Have you

Meet Father Christmas at Titchfield Christmas Barn

Every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday until the 18th December The Christmas Fayre is back in Titchfield at The Great Barn! Bigger and better with over 60 stalls with goodies and gifts, including light refreshments and bar. This time of year Father Christmas is working hard , but he's promised us at the Titchfield Christmas Barn that he's going to take a little break to say "hello"! Each ticket provides admission to Santa's Grotto, a meet and greet with the man himself, and a wrapped gift to take away. Parents will also have plenty of time to take a few snaps to capture the memorable moment! (Babies under 1 are welcome with their siblings free of charge, however a gift won't be included, if you'd like a gift for your little one, a ticket will be required)

Night Before ChristmasChildren's Theatre Season For Kids 3 -8 Years

Friday 9th December until Sunday 11th December Mark no longer believes in Father Christmas but his siblings Alfie and Lucy have a plan to prove to him that he really is real. Join Alfie and Lucy on the the night before

Friday 2nd & Friday 16th Dec Join Neil Ogley and guests as they guide you through Over two hours of stunning entertainment from Big band through the decades to the present day. Guests include: 25th November - Rebecca Clarricoates (a night of dance: Ballroom, Line Dancing and sequence) 2nd December - Verity Bowley (from Adele, Rolling Stones, Beatles to Abba). Great Christmas Party celebrations for all your friends and family to enjoy. Doors Open at 7.30pm. Friday 2nd December at 8.30pm and Friday 16th December at 8.30pm

Chesil Theatre, Winchester

Sat 21st January - Sat 28th January 2023

When three witches promise Macbeth will be a future king, the once-loyal thane discovers just how far he is willing to go to secure that future, even at the cost of tearing his new kingdom apart. Power can corrupt in uncertain times. For showing times refer to website.

Local Events

Watercress Line Steam Illuminations

Through to January 2023

From 3.40pm watercressline.co.uk

A unique Christmas LED train! It’s an incredible light show on and in a steam train, consisting of thousands of fully controllable colour mixing LED lights and LED wristbands. This makes the train look magical both inside and out. Booking Essential

Petersfield Small Business Fair

Saturday 3rd December

18 High St, Petersfield GU32 3JL

On Small Business Saturday, tiny businesses of the town and villages will be exhibiting at Winton House Centre on the High Street. Samples, demos and offers on products and services that complement those of our fabulous town centre independent traders, bringing additional and distinct opportunities for people to “shop local”. The fair is organised on a not-for-profit basis, raising funds for Winton House Centre.

White’s Eco Christmas Fair

Saturday 3rd December

From 10.30am to 4pm

High Street, Selbourne, Hampshire, GU34 3JH

‘Tis the season to gift sustainably, with White’s Eco Christmas Fair! We’re all thinking about ways to reduce our footprints, shop locally, reuse and recycle, so this Christmas why not choose the perfect eco-friendly present for a relative or friend (or just treat yourself!) We will have a range of stalls at our barn

selling beautifully handcrafted sustainable items. The house will be festively decorated with merriment in the air with yuletide performances from Prize Old Mummers and Alton Community Choir in our atmospheric Great Parlour. Entry is £3 per person, this includes fair admission and house and gardens. Under 5s go free. Stallholders include: Blue Leaf Soap Ministry, Candles of Chawton, Fordingbridge Fudge, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Handmade at Hazelwood, Rough Around the Hedges, Salt & Clay, Selborne Women’s Institute, Timeless Stitches.

Carols in the Courtyard

Saturday

3rd December

From 4.30pm to 6pm

Petersfield Museum, St Peter’s Road, Petersfield, GU32 3HX

Join Alder Valley Brass band and our carolers in the Museum’s magical Courtyard, for an early evening of festive singing. Get in the festive spirit with carols, mince pies, mulled wine and festive cheer! For more than 60 years, Alder Valley Brass has enjoyed entertaining the public at venues ranging from Windsor Castle, Epsom Racecourse and Hampton Court Palace to many of the UK’s famous parks & bandstands. The band has also undertaken many foreign tours including Germany, Switzerland, The Netherlands and Belgium. Alder Valley Brass compete in brass band competitions and have represented the London and Southern Counties in the National Brass Band Championships Finals. In June, the band competed at the Whit Friday Marches in Saddleworth, Oldham and came a creditable 14th out of 61 bands at Dobcross.

Hounds for Heroes

Virtual

Quiz

Join us from the comfort of

Wednesday 7th December

From 7pm to 8.30pm

your own home, team up with friends and family and enjoy 5 sets of 10 questions from general knowledge to Disney. Follow Hounds for Heroes on Facebook to join us on Facebook live, see if you are able to beat the quiz master!

Petersfield Community Choir "Sounds of Winter Concert

games, books and annuals. Everything from ray guns, space patrol walkie-talkies and SpringHell Jacks ‘Moon Shoes’. The 1950s and 1960s saw intense competition between the USA and the USSR as they vied to master space. On 20 July 1969, Apollo 11 landed the first two humans on the Moon. This progress in – and preoccupation with – space exploration inspired both toy manufacturers and television programme makers.

Christmas Concert at Gilbert White's House

Thursday 8th December

From 7.3pm to 8.30pm

The Wakes, High Street, GU34 3JH

Wednesday 7th December

From 7.30pm

St. Peter’s Church, The Square, Petersfield, GU32 3HS

This is a free concert with a retiring collection for Petersfield Food Bank. All very welcome.

Out of This World! Space Race Toys

Ramp up the festive feeling and celebrate the yuletide season with all the family with an evening of traditional Christmas brass music and carols in our 16th century atmospheric barn. Enjoy warming mulled wine and a mince pie whilst listening to the wonderful tones of Otterbourne Brass. What better way to spend a wintry evening! Tickets are £16 per adult, £10 aged 5-16 and free for under 5s

Father Christmas Grotto Experience

Wed 7th Dec to Sat 28 Jan

From 10am to 4pm

Petersfield Museum, St Peter’s Road, Petersfield, GU32 3HX

Kids Go Free! Over the holiday period, enjoy a family visit to Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery. On display in the Museum Learning Space, experience a blast from the past with a presentation of over 20 original space-inspired toys,

Saturday 10th December

at 10.30am & 12.15pm

High St, Winchester, SO23 9AP

At the Westgate Museum, Winchester. Set in a cosy Medieval gateway full of history, this opportunity to meet Father Christmas is guaranteed to be one that your kids will never forget. December 10th 2022 at 10:30 - December 10th 2022 at 12:15

#

K0 Christmas Pudding

MAKES APPROX. 35 TRUFFLES

INGREDIENTS

60g whipping cream

20g liquid glucose

180g melted milk chocolate

1 heaped teaspoon of mixed spice

55g finely chopped raisins

45g finely chopped cranberries

Grated Zest of 1 orange

1 ½ - 2 tbsp of Courvoisier

Extra melted milk or dark chocolate for rolling – approx. 150g

METHOD

•

Boil cream and glucose together until it bubbles… approx. 1 minute

• Add the mixed spice

• Allow the cream & glucose to cool

• Add Courvoisier once cooled

• Add chopped fruit and orange zest – then add melted (but not warm) chocolate

• Spread out onto flat tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes until set (not too hard)

• Using a tea spoon scoop out some of your truffle mixture and roll into a ball shape & place onto greaseproof paper

• Roll truffles in melted milk chocolate

• Once your truffles are rolled in chocolate then they will have a 3 month shelf life. Please store in a sealed container away from any direct sunlight or heat.

Have fun making your Christmas treats!!!

Handel Messiah - Sat 10th Dec 2022

It’s so good to be back singing again, and this December, Southampton Philharmonic Choir return to O2 Guildhall Southampton with possibly the most famous of all choral works, Handel’s Messiah. It is a genuinely virtuoso work; requiring superb vocal technique from the chorus and soloists, a wide range of emotional expression and the ability to convey the most dramatic of narratives as well as moments of intense reflection. The fact that parts of Messiah are well known is a huge advantage to performer and listener alike - providing rallying moments of instant recognition and pure excitement. However, in such a substantial Oratorio, there are always new or less familiar moments to surprise and delight the listener.

For many, Messiah is an indispensable part of the festive season. With music of such remarkable quality, something new and fresh is almost inevitable, especially performing with the world-class Hanover Band. The use of period instruments creates just the right quality of sound whilst experienced musicians, immersed in Baroque style and techniques, will inevitably bring authenticity and authority to this popular work. Messiah was written in a mere 24 days between 22 August and 14 September 1741 with text compiled by Charles Jennens, and premiered at the New Music Hall in Fishamble Street, Dublin on 13 April 1742. The Choir, under the baton of Musical Director David Gibson is pleased to welcome soloists for this performance are soprano, Charlotte Bowden, mezzo Emma Roberts, tenor Michael Bell and bass Jamie Woollard.

Join us, tickets are on sale now from O2 Guildhall Southampton box office 023 8063 2601 or online www.O2guildhallsouthampton.co.uk.

JESSIE KEANE CELEBRATES 15 YEARS AS A TOP 10 BESTSELLING NOVELIST!

Local author Jessie Keane, dubbed the Queen of the Underworld, is back with another thrilling tale about her favourite heroine Annie Carter. ‘The fans have been screaming for this,’ says Jessie.

NEVER GO BACK is the seventh novel in the Annie Carter series, following on from Number One Heatseeker Dirty Game, then Black Widow, Scarlet Women, Playing Dead, Ruthless and Stay Dead.

‘I’ve written a number of stand-alones too, and the Ruby Darke series of 3 books,’ says Jessie, ‘I’m working on my 18th right now! But it’s the question I get asked time and again: when is Annie Carter coming back? Well – here she is!’

NEVER GO BACK hits the shelves in major retailers and bookshops on 2nd February 2023. It charts Annie’s sensational rise from East End London madam to gangster’s moll to Mafia queen to woman of substance. Jessie loved returning to her, and there may even be more Annie Carter books. ‘There’s a huge demand for more Annie,’ says Jessie. ‘I see it every day on Twitter and Facebook.’

Jessie is Romany and has – just like her heroines – known both bad times and good. ‘I’ve always written,’ she says. ‘And I was flat broke when I was inspired in 2008 to write Annie Carter in Dirty Game. I wrote it using a borrowed monitor in 3 months and within a fortnight I had a 3 book offer for a 6 figure sum from a major publisher. 15 years on, I’m still writing, still loving it.’

Pre-order your copy of NEVER GO BACK now at: https://amzn. to/3QEYiBF or on Jessie’s website www.jessie-keane.co.uk

South Downs Care

QUALITY CARE & FULFILLING LIFESTYLES

South Downs Care is owned and run by the Rogers family who pride themselves on the personal and individually tailored care that their residents receive in graciously appointed and attractive surroundings.

It is our belief that high quality care starts with finding out what is important to our residents and making sure we get the little things right. We are genuinely passionate about delivering personalised care to every resident. Our holistic approach to care means that we not only deliver excellent care, but also residents are encouraged to be as active as they are able both physically and mentally, through events and activities and individual support.

South Downs Care have been providing care to the people of the Petersfield and the surrounding villages since 1992. When the time comes that people feel their care needs can no longer be catered for at home, or they would like some companionship, or more stimulation than can be provided at home, we can offer a warm welcome with beautifully appointed homes and friendly, professional staff to ensure you or your loved one are well cared for.

South Downs Care is comprised of two homes, Downs House and Stroud House, both nestled in the stunning Hampshire countryside near Petersfield. We believe in providing a high level of personalised care in safe, friendly environments in which older people can live fulfilling lifestyles.

South Downs Care are proud of their reputation for care of the elderly. Our homes have been developed to offer their own individual style and specialism, but share the same ethos of care. There are a wide range of services which are available to all residents, making life in both our homes varied, active and enjoyable. The services provided ensure that all essential needs are catered for and that residents' experience the best possible quality of life.

Services include:

• Doctors on call, from our local Surgery

• District community nurses available

• Community mental health team support

• Medications ordered, collected and dispensed

• Regular outings and shopping trips

• Personal laundry services

• Hairdresser

• Chiropodist

• Exercise classes

• Personalised activities that inspire

• Visiting optician & dentist

• Daily newspaper delivery

• Visiting library including large print and ‘Talking Books’

• Local Clergy will visit and there is a monthly communion service

Why not visit to see for yourself? Contact us to arrange an appointment, or simply pop in.

Alresford Hearing Studio

How to identify hearing loss

Did you know that 1 in 6 of the population are living with hearing loss? That’s around 11 million people in the UK alone.

If this sounds familiar, its’ possible you could be living with some degree of hearing loss.

Read on to find out what the symptoms of hearing loss are and what you can do if you suspect you may be one of the estimated 11 million people in the UK living with hearing loss.

Symptoms of hearing loss

• You often have to ask people to repeat themselves or don’t hear what they say

• You find conversation in groups difficult to follow

• You find it difficult to hear people on the telephone

• People often tell you that your TV or radio volume is too high

• You struggle to hear conversations when there is background noise such as in a café or noisy office

• You often feel as though people are mumbling when talking to you

On average it takes ten years for a person to address their hearing loss. Often, it can take a while for a person to notice there is a problem, since hearing loss is often a progressive condition - it is often loved ones who notice before the individual.

It can take even longer for a person to come to terms and accept that they may have a hearing loss. However, earlier treatment can improve outcomes and, in the majority of cases, we hear that people wish they had gotten their hearing loss treated sooner – earlier detection can improve outcomes and make the transition to hearing aids easier. But how do you tell if you have got a hearing loss?

Maybe you have noticed that life is starting to sound a little less vibrant? Or maybe you are struggling to hear the television or people talking when there is background noise?

• You find it difficult to identify where a sound is coming from

• You find yourself avoiding social situations because you are concerned that you won’t be able to hear

• People have suggested that your hearing may not be what it used to be

If you have experienced any of these symptoms, then a hearing test with a qualified hearing care professional may be beneficial to you. They can provide a definitive answer to whether you are experiencing a hearing loss and we will give you expert advice about the next steps if a hearing loss is detected.

So, why wait?

The sooner you have a hearing test, the sooner you can get onto the road to better hearing, and the sooner you can start to lead a normal life. Book an appointment today with your local hearing care specialist.

www.alresfordhearingstudio.co.uk 42 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU

Tel: 01962 790749

What would YOU miss most during the Holiday Season if a Hearing Loss Developed?

A Survey by Action on Hearing Loss identified some unsurprising but impactful results. People imagined missing out on a number of key elements of the festive season that other take for granted such as;

• The sound of Christmas Carols

• The Classic Christmas Songs on the radio

• The Soundtrack to much loved festive Films

still right for you. Visit a skilled and experienced audiologist before the festive season for a free, comprehensive consultation. They can optimize your current hearing aids to suit noisy environments such as parties or restaurants and can recommend the equipment that handle these environments best.

That is not good, when your hearing aids have directional microphones, the best spot to sit in is the one that will put room noise behind you. If you don’t have directional microphones, it may be time to consider an upgrade…

• Once you are confident in your equipment make sure you use it often, this allows your brain to adjust to different sounds over time

• Using it only when you are faced with noisy situations tends to overwhelm the brain so you need to ‘train’ it to deal with these situations. As you use them more your brain will start to distinguish between important and non-important sounds and adapts to the environment and makes it easier for you to follow the conversation. So start wearing your hearing aids every day in the weeks leading up to the Big Day!

Some Top Tips for the Party Season

• Check that your hearing equipment is

• Check whether your hearing aids have directional microphones (two microphones instead of one), that are designed to reduce sounds from the side and the rear and focus on sounds in front of you. They will focus your hearing aids wherever your nose is pointing. So if you are facing into a noisy restaurant, the directional microphones will be focusing on the greatest amount of background noise.

The Alresford Hearing Studio are a local family run independent business opened in 2019 by husband and wife Sam & Jodie Longman we now serve over 600 hearing aid patients locally.

If you feel your hearing equipment is not supporting you in the way you would like it to, The Alresford Hearing Studio are offering a FREE 30 DAY TRIAL throughout December to enable you to experience the latest hearing technology without any commitment.

Best Winter Walks in Hampshire

There’s

no better feeling than coming back into the warm after a cold, crisp winter walk.

Whether you’re searching for a pre-Christmas walk to de-stress in the lead-up to the big day or looking to burn off a few calories between Christmas and New Year, Hampshire is blessed with plenty of walking routes to give you much needed time in nature, exploring the best the season can offer.

East Meon

A young couple walking through East Meon village in front of the Ye Olde George public house. Ye Olde George Inn is a delightful 15th century coaching inn, set in the heart of East Meon. The picturesque village of East Meon, once owned by the Bishops of Winchester, is home to many historic buildings including the Old Court House. The Ye Olde George Inn and the Izaak Walton Public House offer delicious local food and real ales, along with a roaring fire to warm you up after a lovely stroll through the beautiful Meon valley.

Our walking guide suggests two circular walks, both starting at the imposing Norman church of All Saints with its magnificent spire. One walk of 4 miles should take approximately two hours and the second, a longer walk of 8 miles, which can be completed in around four hours. You can download the East Meon walking leaflet from www.southdowns.gov.uk/ bestwinter-walks-in-hampshire .

Cheriton

This pretty Hampshire village has a church which sits upon an ancient barrow and the crystal clear River Itchen, which rises nearby, running alongside picturesque thatched cottages. It’s also steeped in history as it was

the site of a decisive battle in the English Civil War. The Battle of Cheriton took place on 29 March 1644 in the fields to the east of Cheriton. The Battle was between the Royalists led by the Earl of Forth and the Parliamentarians under Sir William Waller. The Parliamentarians won, halting the Royalists advance to Winchester and forcing King Charles I’s troops on the defensive, leading to their eventual defeat in 1645.

For those looking for a longer winter walk, we would recommend the 10 mile Cheriton loop, starting and finishing at Cheriton village hall. www.southdowns.gov.uk/ best-winter-walksin-hampshire - Post-walk, why not pop into The Flower Pots Inn or The Hinton Arms to rest and recover with a traditional pub lunch.

Queen Elizabeth Country Park

The rolling chalk downland of Butser

and distances, there’s plenty for families along with those looking for something a little more challenging to while away those wintry days. If looking to head to a pub to warm up after, The Jolly Farmer and The Bluebell are right on the edge of Alice Holt. Both pubs are dogfriendly and serve-up tasty, seasonal food.

Hampshire Hangers

Hill

Just three miles south of Petersfield, Queen Elizabeth Country Park offers over 2,000 acres of open woodland and downland. Open every day other than Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Queen Elizabeth Country Park is your starting off point for exploring Butser Hill, one of the highest points in the National Park. With 360 degree views, Butser Hill is one of the best places to admire the Dark Night Skies of the South Downs. The on-site Beechwood Kitchen serves up hot drinks and food using locally-sourced ingredients.

Alice Holt Forest

The Forest is a must see for lovers of trees and woodland. Come the winter, the trees have completed their transition with the forest floor turning into a patchwork of orange, ochre and gold. With five trails of differing lengths

The 21-mile Hangers Way takes you through a valley of steep, tree-covered hills. Lose yourself in steep valley sides cloaked in hanger woodlands. The Hangers Way is a 21-mile long-distance trail between Alton railway station and Queen Elizabeth Country Park, where it eventually connects with the South Downs Way. The Way is divided into 8 different sections, ideal if you don’t fancy completing it all in one day. https://www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/ countryside/walking/hangersway However, if you do want to do it all in one day, Petersfield makes for an ideal rest point and has numerous pubs, cafés and delis to allow you to fuel up before continuing the rest of your journey.

Enjoyed this story? Sign up to South Downs News at www.southdowns. gov.uk

and support local charities

THE GIANT indoor Christmas Charity Market is to be held at TPS, The Petersfield School Hall on Saturday, December 3rd. This traditional family-run event is in aid of Portsmouth Hospitals Charity for cancer services.

Other charities will also be running fundraising stalls at the market for local good causes including the Rosemary Foundation hospice at home nurses and Petersfield Musical Festival. Also raising cash will be the Sidlesham based Cat and Rabbit Rescue Centre from West Sussex.

Traders and craftspeople from across the area will be supporting the event with collectables, bric-a-brac, books, toys, greetings cards and silver jewellery. Christmas gifts, decorations, spring bulbs, crochet and cards by a local artist will also be for sale.

A raffle for the hospital charity is to be held in the foyer and refreshments including bacon butties will be available. Admission to the market is free and is open 9.30am to 3pm. Stall bookings and further details on 07798 753836. Petersfield School is near Tesco at Cranford Road, off The Causeway GU323LU.

Courtyard Gallery, Durleighmarsh

The Courtyard Gallery, Durleighmarsh are delighted to announce that they have been joined by NE Hampshire artist Freda Line. To welcome Freda, The Courtyard Gallery will be extending its opening hours on Wednesday 14 December. Visitors and friends are invited to come along anytime between 2pm and 7pm for a cuppa, a mince pie and a chance to win an original work of art!

Freda specialises in skies, seas and landscapes – whether dramatic or sublime. She uses layers of subtle colour to capture the light, emphasise mood and generate emotion.

Barbara Whitbourn, co-founder of the Courtyard Gallery said: “My colleague Sue Rawlings and I are so pleased that Freda is able to join our team. Freda’s style really complements our work and her outgoing personality means customers (and their dogs) will always feel welcome.”

Freda said “I’m very excited and flattered to be invited to join Barbara and Sue who are both such talented artists. My style is very different from theirs, but I’m sure our visitors will enjoy the mix.”

The Courtyard Gallery sells well-priced original artwork both framed and unframed and cards – something for everyone. It is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10-5. The Courtyard Gallery is located on the north side of the A272 Petersfield / Midhurst Road, GU31 5AX.

Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens at Christmas

New for 2022 is our light

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. We will showcase the gardens as they have never been seen before, transforming them into an awe-inspiring, kaleidoscopic and multi-sensory world of light and sound.

A truly unforgettable, magical walking experience for the whole family, and lovers of the great outdoors. You'll find a shimmering Tree of Joy, hypnotic lasers around the pond, mesmerising projected animals on the trees and a breathtakingly beautiful light show in Himalayan Valley to name just a few of this year's spectacular and festive light art installations. We also have a feast of delicious street food and festive drinks for you to enjoy along your journey.

Limited capacity applies so Book Now www.lightuptrails.com to guarantee your special 2022 Christmas experience! The show will be on from the 24 Nov 2022 - 31 Dec 2022 between 16:30 - 21:30 at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Jermyn's Lane Ampfield, Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 0QA

Steam Illuminations at The Watercress Line

Steam Illuminations is a unique Christmas, pixel mappable digital LED train! It’s an incredible light show on and in a steam train, consisting of thousands of fully controllable colour mixing LED lights and LED wristbands. This makes the train look magical both inside and out. Popular and traditional Christmas music will play along with the lights onboard the train. There will also be comical narration throughout your journey from the one and only Voiceover Man, as heard on Britain’s Got Talent and X-Factor! Trains depart from either Alresford or Alton and complete a round trip, back to the starting station. This is a wonderful experience for the whole family and is sure to be an event to remember. Please Note: Father Christmas will NOT be appearing during Steam Illuminations. CAUTION: This event consists of many flashing lights so may be unsuitable for people suffering from epilepsy.

www.watercressline.co.uk

Giant Christmas Market at TPS - find a special gift

trail at the award-winning

Sue Rawlings: Bluebell Woods

At Town and Country, we take pride in ensuring every client receives the best customer service, from the informative and knowledgeable sales process through to the extensive after sales care. Our boutique showroom showcases some of the finest kitchen and bathroom furniture available, with a strong emphasis on UK and European manufacturing. Bathroom manufacturers on display include Ambiance Bain, Pelipal, Hansgrohe, Roper Rhodes and Miller of Sweden, with Porcelanosa and Ca’Pietra tiling throughout the showroom. Our kitchens are expertly crafted by Schuller, the second largest German kitchen manufacturer, and Uform. Both have an extensive and inspiring collection ranging from the contemporary to the more traditional.

Please contact us regarding our complementary design and quotation service, we look forward to hearing from you.

Visit Town & Country

8 The High Street, Botley, Southampton, Hampshire, SO3O 2EA

Telephone: 01489 536187

Email: sales@town-and-country.co.uk www.town-and-country.co.uk

We don't just sell woodburning stoves to keep you warm! Visit our large showrooms and check out the largest range of YETI gear in the area! Located just outside Winchester with plenty of free parking right outside. You're sure of warm welcome!