Itchen Valley Forum - Issue 171 March 2021 by Mark Tubb

Forum

ISSUE 170 MARCH 2021

ITCHEN VALLEY

Life in your Community

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

THE IDEAS OF MARCH

ALRESFORD - RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB

RECENT NEWS FROM THE

Delicious - Easter Simnel Cake

By Lucia Foster-Found

A Year ago and a Year Ahead

South Downs National Park

STYLE ˙ INTERIORS ˙ HEALTH & BEAUTY ˙ INTERVIEWS ˙ FOOD & DRINK ˙ ENTERTAINMENT ˙ EVENTS

ITCHEN VALLEY FORUM MARCH 2021

CONTENTS Look after your tyres so they can look after you! Uneven and heavy tyre wear can go unnoticed. It is surprising how many people do not check their vehicles for problems before undertaking a journey. It was lucky that this customer came to us for a FREE vehicle check before setting off on a trip. We also check oil, water and coolant levels and brakes. These simple, but important checks, can save you a lengthy wait for a breakdown recovery vehicle or even save your life!

04 Feature

The Ideas of March by Lucia Foster-Found

06 Property Management

28 Recipe of the Month

31 Retail

Buying, selling, letting? Find local estate agents and property management services

10 Lesiure & Entertainment

Discover local events and days out in

11 The Garden

Easter Simnel Caek

Our regular retail feature, Unique, Bespoke, Eclectic and Local shopping

31 Motoring

Local services to keep your vehicle running smoothly

35 Home

Make your garden dream come true. Or visit local beautiful country gardens

Trades, services, designers, All you need for your home

44 Education

16 Feature

Alresford RFC - A year ago and a year ahead

Find local schools and educational experts

Free local collection and delivery service

Design Manager James Curtis james@forumpublications.co.uk Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk

Contributors

Unit 8A, Shelf House, New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QH Tel: 01962 735137

South Downs National Park News

www.forumpublications.co.uk

From photographers to solicitors - every professional service you need

28 Food & Drink

www.phoenixautoservicesltd.co.uk

Advertising Manager Mandy Head mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk

Forum Publications Offices

25 Professional Services

PHOENIX AUTO SERVICES LTD, PROSPECT ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9QF

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

Get in Touch

24 Feature

Call today: 01962 736343

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

www. luciafosterfound.com

Looking after your health and yourself!

Editor Mark Tubb editor@forumpublications.co.uk

Lucia Foster-Found

19 Wellbeing

The Team

Eat out, stay in: food, drink and dining in Hampshire

The Itchen Valley Forum contains facts, views, opinions, statements, recommendations, advertisements and other content and links to external websites not owned or controlled by the magazine. Itchen Valley 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. Itchen Valley 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 © Forum Publications Ltd, 2021

FEATURE

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The Ideas of March © LUCIA FOSTER-FOUND 2021

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o glad to see the back of February; four short weeks that felt like months. Must be a lockdown thing, she thought. Or maybe the incessant barking from the neighbour’s dogs had made each day and most nights seem longer? The enormous wrinkly puppies acquired during the first lockdown, no doubt at great expense, had morphed into mahoosive, noisy adolescents. A Baskerville-ian baying erupted from next door. “Paperboy” she thought as she picked up her newspaper from the doormat. She sat with a coffee and read the horoscopes for some light relief. Apparently Himself’s sun was in Pisces and he should enjoy the little things of life. But what did that mean? Keep tropical fish? Whitebait for tea? Also, it mentioned the Ides of March; with the full moon in Mars they should avoid conflict and aggression. Given that they were avoiding absolutely everyone - aggressive, Italian or otherwise… Drivel. Honestly. She turned the page. Himself appeared and said. “So… I had this idea…” With an excited air he thrust a wristband into her hand, proudly displaying the one he was already wearing. “I came out of the first lockdown fatter and grimmer. I’m leaving this one fitter and trimmer!” Oh lord – a fitness tracker… She looked from it to him and asked “Who are you and what have you done with my husband?” “It’s wonderful!” he laughed “I’ve secretly been wearing it and already increased my step count.” All his thundering up and down stairs now made sense. “And the GPS will measure our walks in the forest with the dogs.” Good, that might actually help them find the car again.. He enthused. “You hardly know you’re wearing them, they’re so small.” Crikey - maybe these were his ‘little things’ from the horoscope? He went on ”And they’re waterproof, so we can swim in them.” Aah – the sun in Pisces! She put hers on and ran to the shed and back. Puffing, she studied the display with interest. Steps; fewer than it felt. Pulse; a good darts score. Bit concerning. Himself apparently had a (very valid) point and she pronounced herself a convert. Looking delighted, he kissed her on the cheek and trotted on the spot. The fitness tracker quickly became her conscience. She too thundered up and down the stairs and trotted on the spot. The sleep monitor, although informative, didn’t register the

nightmares though. The one where she went into a shop without her mask, then sprinted for the exit like a deranged goal scorer with her jumper pulled over her head, was particularly awful. In a sweat, she’d woken herself up from that and checked her pulse – only to find Himself already awake, muttering. “It’s those dogs again. Woofing. Milkman.” The next day, he announced “I’ve had a jolly idea! Let’s go for a run together.” Well, neither were what you’d call natural athletes. Quick sprint from the car to the house in a downpour, yes. Lurching along the road in lycra, no. “Best to build up to that sort of thing, darling. Brisker walks and more stints on the exercise bike first, I think.” She worried he might overdo it. She also worried she might too. But Himself was not listening. Not listening to her anyway; the neighbour’s dogs were at it again. Postman. “Actually, I’ve had an idea.” He announced. Another one? “‘Next Door’, he’s a jogger – I could ask him if he’d like some company.” Now she’d seen ‘Next Door’ out and about and she’d definitely have described what he did as running, not jogging. Surprisingly fast for such a big man. And looking very… what was the word…? ‘serious’ was the kindest one that came to mind. “And then I could bring up, you know, casually, the subject of the relentless barking …” he nodded to himself, looking pleased with the notion as he headed out of the door. “I’m not sure that’s such a good idea, darling.” She called after him. The words ‘conflict’ and ‘aggression’ resurfaced from the horoscope, as she visualised the scary man-mountain that was ‘Next Door’. Plus, the dogs looked like they snacked on paperboys, postmen, milkmen – and neighbours. The ‘Ides of March’ weren’t drivel. They were a typo. It should be the ‘Ideas of March’ – and frankly the ideas were getting out of hand.. Himself was not gone long. “P’raps you’re right.” He announced, washing his hands. “I’ll give it a few weeks and get fitter. Revisit the idea again next month.” “Why, what did ‘Next Door’ say?” Looking vaguely relieved, he shrugged his shoulders and helped himself to a mini mars bar. Between mouthfuls he said “Nothing. His dogs were in the garden. Lovely – nearly licked me to death. But barked so loudly he didn’t hear me knocking..”

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COMMUNITY / PROPERTY

PROPERTY / COMMUNITY The changing face of Estate Agency As property professionals we have all had to adapt to the many recent changes brought about by the constantly altering legislation surrounding Covid-19. As the Government gradually reveals plans to ease businesses out of lockdown, the focus will turn to the new ‘face’ of Estate Agency post Covid-19. Covid-19 will have changed the way businesses, including property agencies, operate in the future, but they were changes that were already happening. For The Country House Company we had already embraced the exciting and innovative changes brought about by the technological revolution that facilitated the growth of property portals, digital and social media.

Kate Porter, Head of Sales Tel: 02392 633 026

Experts in property Sales I Lettings I Management Across the South

Kate Morton, Head of Lettings Tel: 02392 633 022

Our knowledgeable and professional use of digital technology and social media has enabled us to reach a huge yet targeted audience. Not only are we able to tailor campaigns to ensure we reach the London buyers but we are able to target specific demographics suitable for particular properties. The future will certainly see a reduced need for a high street presence for property companies and arguably no need for an office in London.

substitute for human contact. We have developed safe and efficient methods of communicating during Covid-19 and will continue to do so.

As an independent company our focus has always been property and client lead rather than company lead. Not bound by the constraints of corporate policy, dictat or structure, means we are able to tailor our service to the needs of the client, and we can create different and targeted marketing campaigns for each individual property. One important focus for The Country House Company that will never change is our awareness that there is no long term satisfactory

As in all aspects of life, the survival of the fittest represents the survival of those who are adaptable, flexible and able to embrace and enjoy change for all the opportunities it presents. There are exciting times ahead for property and The Country House Company.

Selling, Letting & Managing properties in the Itchen Valley 02392 632 275

EQDC

sales@countryhousecompany.co.uk  lettings@countryhousecompany.co.uk management@countryhousecompany.co.uk countryhousecompany.co.uk

½À

Acts chapter 8: 35 and Philip preached unto him Jesus 36 the man - "...see here is water; what hinders me from being baptised? 37 Philip- "if you believe with all your heart, you may" the man answered " I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God."

NEW FARM CHAPEL New Farm Road, Alresford, Hampshire Sunday Services 10.30am and 4.30pm Tel:07447 158058 For any who wish to zoom, please ask for the zoom link via our website www.newfarmchapel.org.uk

COMMUNITY

Alresford Christmas Song Contest- Singing and Winning Watch out Eurovision Song Contest: Alresford has talent!

We found out that even in the darkest lockdown days the local children and adults had some fun over the festive period with Christmas songs and carols. Alresford Rotary wanted to bring some fun to the Festive Season this year. Despite many carol concerts being cancelled and carolling banned we found a way for local people to sing and record their songs in the comfort of their own homes, in a COVID safe way. We were surprised by the excellent recordings we received. Judging by musical experts was tough, given the very different styles received. There were Carols-new and traditional, modern Christmas Songs as well as some original compositions. Alresford is a very talented town.

all proceeds going directly to support needy in the local area. Thanks to everyone that supported us but if you still wish to donate, go to JustGiving.com and search Alresford Rotary. Why not join Alresford Rotary? We’re looking for community-spirited volunteers to join us. If you’re interested in working inside the world’s largest voluntary service organisation that not only supports local causes but has real global reach and

Jen Boardman, Female Singer Prize Winner

that tackles some of the hardest problems society at large faces (poverty, sanitation, clean drinking water, polio, preventable blindness and the environment). If you would like to find out more about Alresford Rotary, email Jonathan Read at rotary.alresford.giving@gmail.com and see more on our website AlresfordRotary.co.uk

Sales | Property Management | Lettings Sales | Property Management | Lettings

James Pinniger www.alresfordrotry.co.uk rotaryalresford@gmail.com

Jean Baxter, Original Composition Prize Winner

A name you can count on in a changing world… A name you can count on in a changing world… Who would want to live anywhere else?

We are lucky to be living in such a beautiful place, with its chalk streams, Georgian townhouses and individual shops, which hopefully will be open again for business very soon.

Eleanor Marsden & Alec Walters, Duet Prize Winners

We are pleased to announce the following winners: • Female Singer Prize: Jen Boardman

Prize Hamper

Hellards is very much part of the furniture locally, having set up home in Alresford in 1988. Over the years our experienced team have helped many local people sell or let their homes.

• Male Singer Prize: Geoff Amey

If you are thinking of moving this year, or would just like some honest, independent advice, please contact one of our friendly team to book in a free market appraisal.

• Duet Prize: Eleanor Marsden & Alec Walters • Children’s Prize: Phoebe and Felix Milford

We hope to hear from you soon!

• Original Composition Prize: Jean Baxter The adult winners received a Hamper prepared by Becky at the Arlebury Café. The children received a voucher for the Alresford Toy Shop. The Contest formed part of our Alresford Rotary Charity fundraising with

Geoff Amey, Male Singer Prize Winner

Children’s Prize Winners, Felix and Phoebe Milford

11 Broad Street, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9AR | alresford@hellards.co.uk 11 Broad Street, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 | 736333 alresford@hellards.co.uk www.hellards.co.uk | Tel. 9AR 01962 www.hellards.co.uk | Tel. 01962 736333

ENTERTAINMENT HOPE, HOPE, HOPE - A Haven of Hope at St John’s Church, Alresford

Snowdrop Sundays

Warnford Snowdrops The Warnford Snowdrop walks have been held every February in the grounds of Warnford Church and Warnford Park for over 50 years. Visits to this well known collection of Snowdrops are very popular and have always been free of charge although many visitors over the years have generously made donations to support the work of the Church in Warnford. adapted by adapted by adapted byCharly CharlyArmstrong Armstrong adapted byCharly CharlyArmstrong Armstrong

Wuthering Wuthering Wuthering Wuthering Heights Heights Heights Heights

Due to Covid the walks this year have been cancelled, however if anyone who has visited in years gone by would like to make a donation to the Church cheques can be sent made out to Warnford PCC and posted to The Church of our Lady. Lippen Lane. Warnford.Southampton SO323LE. Or via “Give a Little” (QR Code below). For further details see Warnford Village Website. Every year over sixty residents of Warnford and West Meon volunteer their time to adapted help make Snowdrop walks a success and adapted by by Charly CharlyArmstrong Armstrong they look forward to welcoming you back in 2022.

Wuthering Wuthering Heights Heights

You are invited to visit the Haven of Hope gazebo outside the North Door of St John’s Church from Monday 15th February to Easter Sunday 4th April. Why not take a moment from the stress of the world to pause and reflect on words and sentences of hope, copies of which you will be able to take away with you. You will also be able to write your own messages of hope on ribbons and 2 life-sized figures. There will be opportunities for all ages to take part in activities which will include pebble prayers, pipe cleaner people, playing card prayers and messages of hope for the world. The life-sized figures will almost be holding hands to represent the separation we all feel at the moment but will move together when Lockdown ends to inspire us with Hope. We will also be inviting those of you who wish, to bring along a padlock to attach to netting on the sides to symbolise a moment or an event in your life over the last year where Lockdown has been a real challenge. There will be plenty of wipes available with the pens and activities to ensure hygiene and safety.

WAS ITWAS YOUIT YOU ‘May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace.’

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Wuthering Wuthering Heights Heights Adapted by Charly Armstrong

LOOKING FOR

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WAS IT YOU

Pheasant Pheasant PluckerPlucker DIMAGGIO & Friend & Friend

Adapted by Charly Armstrong

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21 MAR 2020 @ 2.30PM & 7.30PM

Wuthering Heights WORD OF MOUTH WORD OF MOUTHPheasant

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laughter. laughter. The story of a bird handler who Thethrows story ofdown a birdher handler gauntlet; who throws down her gauntlet; a soaring of avian antics, soaring andADVICE daring. tale ofHarriet’s avian antics, journey wit and daring. Harriet’s journey VENUE MAY BE SUBJECT TO tale CHANGE DUE TOaofwit HMG of self discovery is both daft and self deliriously discoveryfunny. is both daft and deliriously funny.

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GARDEN

10 Spring Lawn Care Essentials Let’s look at what can be done now to get your lawn ready for a beautiful summer 1. Moss Low light levels, shade and increased rainfall creates the ideal conditions for moss to colonise your lawn. Always apply a moss killing treatment after you have raked or scarified your lawn in order to kill and loose pieces of moss. Never, ever mow into moss. If you have moss in your lawn that you can’t remove then raise your mower blades so the grass leaf is at least 2cm above the moss. 2. Dethatch

Thatch is a layer of organic matter that lays on top of the soil just above the roots of grass plants. It has little or no microbial activity, unless you get involved it will not decompose. It prevents water and nutrition reaching the roots. It reduces the amount of air in the soil that’s essential for healthy plant life. Spring is the right time to dethatch turf. Cutting into the thatch to introduce air spaces is ideal. Boosting microbial activity with a compost tea - yes, you heard me, you can make a tea from compost and its super for your lawn health. 3. Aerate Aeration is by far the most beneficial mechanical process for your lawn. Soil relies on beneficial fungi and bacteria which make micronutrients available to grass plants and also produces growth hormones whilst protecting the plants from attack from pests and disease. Worms and insects also need water, air and food. Roots grow in the air gaps between the soil particles, not in the soil itself. By aerating your lawn, you are introducing the air gaps essential to support that soil activity. In addition, aeration relieves compaction and helps reduce waterlogging too. 4. Rake Using a spring rake removes debris and helps the grass leaf stand upright. When things begin to grow again in the early spring it’s a good idea to give your lawn a bit of a hair-brush, get things standing to attention and ready for a mow. Spring raking removes lingering autumn leaves and grass blades that didn't survive winter. Do it now! 5) Over-seed Repair bare patches in your lawn by over-seeding. Remove the dead patch of grass with a rake. In-fill with compost and mix seed into the top layer. Give it a good water and wait until the seed germinates

6. Fertilise

All living things need food, they also need the right kind of food in the right quantities. Many home-owners seem to forget this. Lawns need the right amount of Nitrogen, Potassium and Phosphorus throughout the year. The occasional sprinkle of a 3-in-1 spring feed from the garden centre is not really cutting it. If you are going to feed your own lawn focus on quality over quantity. Focus on feeding the soil and let the soil feed the plant. If in doubt, speak to a lawn care professional 7. Weed control Catch weeds early in the season if you can. Professional weed killers either cause the weed to produce excessive growth hormones and grow themselves to death or they inhibit the plant’s ability to photosynthesise and they starve to death. Some weeds are harder to control than others. Weed control is complex, get it right and your lawn’s going to look great this summer. 8. Water It costs less than £5 to water the average sized lawn. You only really need to do that every other week. Give it an inch of water (measured in a container on the lawn). Lawn care professionals use wetting agents, they keep water in the root-zone and mean that you can apply half as much water whilst getting the same results. 9. Mow The majority of lawn issues I see can be traced back to a poor mowing regime. It’s relatively easy to get it right. Make sure your mower blades are sharp. Cut off no more than ¼ of the leaf length each mow. Start from different places on the lawn. Ideally mulch mow, leaving clippings behind to feed the essential soil microbes.

Supply and planting large specimen trees and shrubs Espalier, pleached and instant impact hedges All trees and shrubs carefully selected

FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1973, BUILT ON GREAT SERVICE AND VALUE FOR MONEY Please visit our website for all the latest news, information, second-hand machines for sale and special offers in the showroom.

t: 01962 771800 steve.cann@btconnect.com www.georgecanngardenmachinery.co.uk

Laceys Farm, Bramdean Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0JT

Ian Kenyon sits on the committee of the UK Lawncare Association and owns Shrekfeet Lawn. He is always happy to offer friendly, professional advice and help 01962 460146, 07739 789483 www.shrekfeet.com

Bosque is a trading name of Just Limegrass Ltd. Harko: 07710 502798 Tom: 07855 656984 www.bosque international.co.uk

• Wasps • Rats • Squirrels • Moles • Rabbits • Crawling & Flying Insects • Mice

Fully insured - Discreet service assured at all time

T: 07778 141505

E: traditionalpestcontrol@gmail.com www.traditionalpestcontrol.co.uk

SPECIALISTS IN STUMP GRINDING,

secure your fencing for the spring 01962 733990

Call Andrew or Ashley on Installation service available Prospect Road, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9QF www prospectfencing.co.uk

Free site visit and consultation

Daren George - your local pest controller from Alresford

10. Edge

Cutting a neat edge will help define the lawn Ensure you use a halfmoon edging tool and make sure it’s sharp. Work from a board that you stand on along the edge you are cutting. If it’s a curved edge you need then lay a rope or hose out first to ensure you are happy with the curve you are about to cut. Ensure the edge you cut slopes away from the turf. If in doubt, look on YouTube. We have a professional lawn edger, the type they use for cutting golf bunkers. If you’re lucky enough to have a big lawn to edge please get in touch.

Design, landscaping and ongoing maintenance

TREE WORK & THE SUPPLY OF LOGS

All types of countryside contracting undertaken • Mobile Bandsawing Service • Brushwood Chipper Hire • Concreting • Hedge Cutting • Fencing

PETER PAYNE 01962 733866 or 07778 170442

GARDEN

COMMUNITY / GARDEN Alresford Police

TRIMMERS GARDEN SERVICES

FIONA MERRION

TRADITIONAL GARDENING

Single-handed gardener with many years experience looking after large gardens. Looking to take on a client for 1 or 2 days work per week.

Winchester Rural Neighbourhood Policing Team welcome three new recruits to the team; PCSO Victor Mills, PC Alex Baldwin and PC Victoria McCallum. Victor will be taking over the Winchester East area, which includes Alresford Town and the surrounding rural parishes, alongside PC Rich Glover. Alex and Victoria are currently being tutored by PC Carl Stevens and will predominantly be covering the north of our area.

• Veg and Fruit Garden Care • Glass House Plant Care • Perrenial Borders • Routine Garden Maintenance • Veg, fruit and cut flower production • Ecology, can Advise on Wildlife

FOR MORE INFORMATION

T: 07508 256102 T: 07977 403365

You can contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team by email at winchester.rural.police@hampshire.pnn.police.uk To report a crime or suspicious behaviour, please fill out an online reporting form on the Hampshire Constabulary website or phone 101. Always phone 999 in an emergency.

FREE QUOTES SUPPLIED

•

❖

❖ 01962 736261 or 0789 602 7356 ❖ ❖ www.trimmers-garden-services.co.uk ❖ ❖ info@trimmers-garden-services.co.uk ❖ ❖ #@trimmersgardenservices ❖

Sparsholt college trained & qualified Free advice & written quotations 15 years experience

www.cdtrees.co.uk

Telephone - 01962 738 420 - 07900 987 609 Bishops Sutton, Alresford

Chris Matthews Tree Care and Woodland Management

• Tree surgery / TPO applications • Hedge maintenance • Fencing / Garden structures • Woodland management / tree planting Qualified in arboriculture and countrsyide management. 15 years experience

Tel: 01962 732498 Mob: 07879 448141

Landscaping Gardener with 25 years experience as award winning landscaper in Norway

Hard Landscaping

• Block & Flagstone Paving • Gravelling, patios and paths • Turfing

PETER CHIVERS PCS FOR ALL YOUR PEST CONTROL NEEDS: Rats, Mice, Moles, Squirrels, Cockroaches, Rabbits, Pigeons, Bird-Proofing, Mole Trapping Specialist

Call Peter Chivers on: 01256 389124 or Mobile: 07803 096642 BPCA MEMBER - FULLY INSURED 9 STENBURY DRIVE, PRESTON CANDOVER, BASINGSTOKE

General Maintenance

ALL AREAS COVERED

ECO EFFICIENT

• • • •

Bark mulch & woodchip supplied Fencing Garden clearance, renovation, make overs Green waste disposal – all recycled Hard and soft landscaping services Hedge Trimming, topiary Lawn care - mowing, scarification, aeration, fertilization, top dressing, cutting, edging, turfing Plant supply, maintenance & general care Pressure washing, patio maintenance Weed control and Treatments Tree Work, supply, maintenance & general care, woodland management One-off, weekly, fortnightly, monthly - scheduled visits

All Tree & Hedge Care

Landscaping & Garden Maintenance

Village Agent volunteers, supported by Age Concern Hampshire, help people – and their family, friends and carers – find the information and support they need to stay living safely and independently.

You can contact Denise, Alresford’s Village Agent, on 07969 376023 or enquiries@ageconcernhampshire

ALL EQUIPMENT USED ARE

• • • • • • •

GARDEN SERVICES OFFERED

TDH

Can Denise, your local Village Agent, help you?

Find – Provide information on a range of topics, such as finding help to manage around the home, social activities locally or what government help you may be eligible for. Help – When appropriate, provide a bit of tailored support to help you connect to the service you need, such as making a phone call, finding transport or filling in a form, such as Attendance Allowance or Blue Badge. Connect – Can put you in touch with the right help, such as charities and local support groups, at the right time.

NO GARDEN TOO LARGE

EXPERIENCE IN

If you are passing whilst out on your essential journey, come at meet Victor and Rich at our next Police Beat Surgery on Wednesday 24th March, between 11.00 – 12.30, at the Community Centre on West Street in Alresford. The latest Government restrictions on COVID-19 will apply.

• • •

NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR WINTER

C&D Trees

• Grass & Hedge Cutting • Hedge, Shrubs and Tree Pruning • Leaf Collecting • Garden Clearance • Borders Cleared • Soil improvement

Free Quotes • References from Norwegian Projects T: 07498 747906

1 Hinton Hill Cottages, Hinton Ampner, SO24 0JZ

FEATURE

Alresford RFC: ‘A year ago and a year ahead’ December of last year, we were on the cusp of a potential return to full-contact competition when the new, more virulent Covid variant emerged and we reverted to “the longest, pre-season training schedule ever” in the words of our Head Coach Graham Arkley – yes we did secure him and we’re delighted he’s committed to staying with us despite a ‘challenging’ first non-season! As soon as we’re able to recommence training, from the minis to the seniors, including, of course, the ladies, our club will use what remains of the cancelled 2020-21 season and the summer to prepare all of our players for a return to rugby in the 2021-22 season, which will be the club’s 30th. In recognition of this milestone, we’ll hold social events to promote the club, retain and recruit players and engage as fully as possible with the people of Alresford.

Everyone at our rugby club from grizzled ex-players to bright-eyed minis are missing our treasured game.

Anyone wishing to pull on our jersey will be welcomed with open arms , after all we are Hampshire’s Friendliest Club with the very best two pitches in our or anyone else’s league. Non playing volunteers are also very much welcomed to support in areas such as local events etc and the 'chance to apply for international tickets' when allowed are open to all paid up members. Please check our website for details of how to join our friendly and committed rugby club.

Alresford Ladies Despite all odds 2020 saw the beginnings of a brand-new Ladies team at Alresford RFC. The Black Swans were due to make their Rugby debut at Winchester’s Easter 7s Tournament last spring but due to the pandemic this was cancelled. Despite the circumstances, The Black Swans still managed to host effective and informative training sessions for both new beginners and previously experienced Rugby players. The Black Swans are pleased to be taking part in the Inner Warrior series and are looking forward to welcoming new members to the team. More information on how to register your interest for our Inner Warrior camp can be found here: Find Rugby (englandrugby.com)

coaches have had some fun and engaging rugby training sessions importantly keeping it all Covid-safe, and even managing some Christmas fun on the pitch within the different age groups. During the lockdowns we have looked to keep the kids engaged with rugby with various fun challenges, virtual training sessions on a Sunday and more – and it has been great to see the kids engagement and smiles and be able to provide some respite and rugby enjoyment during these tough times. Thanks go to all the coaches and team managers who have helped us to keep the rugby going over this period. We hope to be able to finish the season back training together and as we look ahead we would welcome any new faces to come and join our friendly and growing family club – just pop on down and give it a try.

Alresford Minis (aka Hornets) Alresford Minis (aka Hornets) have had an enjoyable season providing a welcome distraction and engagement from the ever changing Covid situation. Despite the wider challenges we have adapted as we have gone along so that the children could continue to enjoy their rugby. It has been great to welcome many new faces during the season and to have the kids running round enjoying their rugby on a Sunday morning down at Alrebury Park. A brilliant outlet for them to let off steam, have a laugh with others and enjoy some normality whilst playing the good old game of rugby. Despite not being able to play any matches this season the children and the

Physicality, camaraderie and mutual respect are fundamental in rugby and the absence of these cohesive, social elements during the pandemic has affected us all. A year ago, we were in the final few weeks of the 2019-20 season, planning promotional campaigns at the Watercress Festival, the Alresford Music Festival and the Alresford Show blissfully unaware of what lay ahead. The minutes of our March 2020 meeting record the committee’s enthusiasm in establishing a ‘Ladies Team’ in Alresford based on young women from Winchester University. We’d enjoyed the first few fixtures of the 6 Nations tournament and were closing-in on securing a new coach for the 2020-21 season, then Covid struck. During the first lockdown the Rugby Football Union established a ‘roadmap’ to return to competitive rugby with stages based on Covid-compliant, training at all levels of the game. In early

ARFC boast two men’s senior sides, a ladies team and our marvellous minis. However , despite so much positivity , like many clubs recruitment is a key and vital area to focus on. If you’re a student or under 18 playing membership is free and senior players submit a fee of £100.

Alresford RFC’s reputation as Hampshire’s friendliest club is very dear to us and we intend to ramp-up our engagement with the town, our massively supportive sponsors, Hampshire RFU and Perins to ensure we get the fun back into our lives by inclusive social interaction that we all miss terribly. Let’s make the upcoming season one to savour by preparing well, focussing on family and friends and celebrating life.

Coaches Corner We as a club, like many others, are a club in transition. From March last year our plans, direction and comfort zones were torpedoed by the pandemic that effected each and everyone of us. However, despite what was thrown at us we trained when allowed to do so, the minis thrived, the women’s group became established and players, supporters and committee have stuck together. This was helped enormously by the appointment of our new Head Coach Graham Arkley, who has guided us so professionally through this time and brings experience, expertise and continuity to the club.

FEATURE

WELLBEING

Alresford R.F.C Sponsorship price list 2021-2024

• Company logo in club handbook and Club Website. • Members and Club, like Facebook page/ follow on twitter/ Instagram. • Half Page advert in club handbook (Advert design provided by sponsor) • Pitch side Board (Design provided by sponsor) • Item of kit with sponsors logo on it. Every deal over £600 per year receives 2 lunch tickets and every £600 after an additional 2 tickets per year. Sponsors will be entitled to a discount for the 3 year deal being paid all in advance upfront 1st team kit. Front of shirt £1800 - £4500 upfront. Shirt Back high £1500 - £3500 upfront. Shirt back low £1300 - £3500 upfront. Arm £1100 -£2500 upfront 2nd Team Kit The Vagrants Front £1500 - £4000 upfront Back top £1400 - £3500 upfront Back bottom £1200 - £3000 upfront Arm £1000 - £2500 upfront

1st refusal to previous sponsors on all items. Prices are per year as a 3 year deal with options to extend. Pay the 3 year amount in full and get a discount. See discount price in brackets. Whats Included (Signage) All contracted Signage Sponsors deals will include the following • Club Membership for 1person. • Company Logo on promotional sail. • Company logo in club handbook, and Club Website. • Members and Club, like Facebook page/ follow on twitter/ Instagram. • Half Page advert in club handbook. (Advert design provided by sponsor) • Pitch side Board (Board design provided by sponsor) • Every deal over £600 per year receives 2 lunch tickets and every £600 after an additional 2 tickets per year. • Sponsors will be entitled to a discount for the 3 year deal

being paid all in advance upfront Ground Naming • Having the ground named after your company, 5 year deal. £2500 per year. (Or £10,000 one of payment) • Have a sign at both Gates. Company logo on the front of the handbook company advert on the back of handbook. • 6 lunch passes and 2 Dinner passes per year. Pitch side Boards • £600 per year. 3 year deal.( Or £1500 one of payment) Post Protectors • 3 year deal £1800 per year per pitch (£4500) • 2 pitch deal £3000 per year (£7700) Includes board. What's included (Kit) All contracted kit Sponsors deals will include the following. • Club Membership for 1 person. • Company Logo on promotional sail.

Alresford Ladies The Black Swans Front £1200 - upfront £3000 Back top £900 - £2500 Back bottom £900 - £2500 Arm £600 - £1500 Change/Social kit (Playing Tour, Vets) Front £1200 - upfront £3000 Back top £900 - £2500 Back bottom £900 - £2500 Arm £600 - £1500 Shorts ( Male Squad) Seat £1500 -£4000 upfront Front £1100 - £3000 upfront Shorts (female) Seat £800 - £2000 up front Front £500- £1300 Squad tracksuit/drill top. £2000 per year - or £5000 upfront Club Shop Sponsorship Club shop products Sublimated items will have a logo. £1500 £4000 up front None Contracted items Prices include Logo in handbook. Logo on Website

Lunch tickets subject to cost. Below not including Pitch Board as only a 1year contract. Tour Tour shirt per year. Front £800 Back £600 Exclusive £1200 (Includes 2 lunch) exclusive 4 7s 7’s shirts £800 Back £600 7’s shorts £600 Exclusive kit £1500 (Includes 2 lunch) 6 exclusive Balls Training balls season £150 per season. Match Balls £600 per season. (Includes 2 lunches full page advert). Handbook Advert. £60 1/2 page colour Full page £100 colour Back outside page £250. Player Lunch 1st Team Lunch. 3 guests Sit down with the 1st team. Watch the 2nd team play. £400 2nd team Lunch 3 guests Sit down with the 2nd team Watch the 1st team £400

M AT H E S O N

OPTOMETRISTS

NOW

May be a good time to address your EYECARE NEEDS If we enter another lockdown situation, it may result in a suspension of routine eyecare services. Why not take the opportunity to get your new spectacles now? We can provide emergency cover under the local Minor Eye Conditions Scheme in most cases. Our spectacle workshops mean we can usually supply your new spectacles quickly, often on the same day. A l r e s f o r d 01962 732336 Four Marks 01420 560082

alresford@matheson-optometrists.com

fourmarks@matheson-optometrists.com

W W W. M AT H E S O N - O P T O M E T R I S T S . C O M stockists of:

Sponsor Lunch Invite 20 Guests for 3 course lunch and to watch a game of rugby. £800 *2020, 2 month lose of sponsor coverage due to covid-19 All previous contracted kit sponsors from 2017-20 will receive 10% off the new deal price to continue sponsoring a kit. All previous contracted pitch side board sponsors 2017-20 will receive 10% off the new price to continue sponsoring a pitch board. Price list already has deductions applied. All contracts to start 1st August 2020. Contract length will run for 3 seasons from 4 weeks prior to 1st fixture being played. The difference will be added onto the end of the contract, not exceeding 31st December 2023.

Care for children, elderly and mental health disorders is available in Alresford, Winchester, Alton and surrounding areas. Services; companionship, meal preparation, shopping, personal care, babysitting, cleaning, dog walking. T:07858 07858698294 698294 www.palitcareservice.online E: damla.palitt@gmail.com T: Instagram: palitcareservice E: support@palitcareservice.online

26 The Dean Alresford Hampshire S024 9AZ Tel: 01962 738683 www.studio49alresford.com

ONLINE CLASSES & STUDIO SESSIONS

Minis sponsor opportunities also available!

For more information contact: alresfordrfc.co.uk

WELLBEING

COMMUNITY

Come Back Stronger Originally named Station Mill, with its stunning architecture and rich history, was transformed in 2020 into a premium fitness facility which still holds onto its original design and charming features. Set in the heart of Alresford, It could be said that Station Mill Health and Fitness is a one stop shop for all things wellness, but it is so much more than that. Each member becomes part of a health-conscious community and steps up to board on a journey of wellness.

Alresford Surgery News Before attending the surgery The surgery is extremely busy with an increased workload & additional pressures. We are unable to lock our doors like we did previously so please do consider carefully how vital your visit to us is. Our dispensary has been constantly busy throughout Covid and due to social distancing measures are working in smaller teams. Prescriptions take 72 hours to be processed, please do not call, email or attend the dispensary asking for you prescription before the 72 hours has passed, as it will not be ready early! When attending the Surgery, if the waiting area appears busy & social distancing difficult, then please wait outside until more space is available. Please do not come into the surgery if you have any of the following; • A high temperature or fever • A new continuous cough • Loss or change to your sense of smell or taste Please stay at home and use the following website for further help. 111.nhs.uk/covid-19 You need to be wearing a face covering/ mask before entering the building, even if collecting a prescription. To ensure there are as few patients in the building as possible, • Do not attend more than 5 minutes before your appointment time.

• You should attend the surgery alone, unless you need an essential carer or parent/guardian to accompany you. Any enquiries relating to appointments, repeat medications or otherwise please telephone (01962 732345) rather than attending the reception desk. Covid 19 Vaccinations: We know that you, like us, are struggling with the continued confines imposed upon us all due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Everyone is trying to make the best of the situation and, as a practice; we are committed to caring for you in the best possible way whilst keeping both you and our team safe. To keep you as informed as possible, we will update these messages frequently as we become aware of more information from NHS England: • The vaccines are still being rolled out in a very strict order. The order of which is set out below; 1. Residents in care home for older adults Staff working in care homes for older adults. 2. All those 80 years and over. Frontline Health and social care workers. 3. All those 75 years of age and over. 4. All those 70 years and over. Clinically extremely vulnerable individuals (not including pregnant women and those less than 16 years of age)

which are home to an extensive class schedule providing weekly yoga, pilates and barre classes. All designed with you in mind, allowing you to strengthen, stretch and relax at your own leisure.

5. All those 65 years of age and over. 6. Adults age 16 to 65 years of age in an at risk group. 7. Adults age 55 years of age and over. 8. All those 50 years and over. • We may contact you via telephone or text to book your vaccination or you may get written to by NHS England. • Please only book one appointment for your Covid vaccine. • Please do make sure you keep your vaccine appointment. If you are unable to attend, please telephone the venue. • It is very important that no vaccines go to waste due to patients not attending for their appointment. • Before and after your vaccine you must • wash your hands • wear a face mask as advised • keep 2 metres apart • Do remember that we are still open if you have any medical concerns. • We have been made aware of several scams involving Covid vaccinations, so please be assured that we would never ask you for payment for your vaccination. Thank you for your patience from the GP Partners of Alresford Surgery. The Alresford Surgery, Station Road Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9JL Telephone: 01962 732345 Website: www.alresfordsurgery.co.uk

Station Mill seamlessly combines the very latest in fitness technology with its industry exclusive performance cycling studio and state-of-the-art gym floor. Station Mill is also host to two calm and serene studios

Once inside this four-storey health space you will be provided with a full on-boarding process to ease you into regular gym sessions. This includes a comprehensive movement screen, body composition analysis and exercises programme. This extra support is to assist in creating a complete training experience, where machines automatically sync your training plan to Technogym’s MyWellness app.

Station Mill Health and Fitness is also proud to be the first facility in England to utilise Technogym’s Skillbike Technology in its performance cycling classes. These classes are there to create a bespoke training session geared to improving key cycling performance metrics and areas of general fitness. The classes are run in the immersive performance studio where the use of visual data is projected to push you to your max. For more information head to www. stationmill.co.uk to find out what else they can offer when they reopen in the near future.

GYM YOGA PILATES BARRE CYCLING MEDICAL WWW.STATIONMILL.CO.UK STATION ROAD ALRESFORD SO24 9JQ INFO@STATIONMILL.CO.UK 21

COMMUNITY / WELLBEING Home Instead Central Hampshire. T: 01962 736681

Winchester City Council announces new Biodiversity Action Plan to help protect and restore local species and habitats Winchester City Council has today published a new Biodiversity Action Plan which sets out the council’s strategy and ambitions to protect, enhance, and restore key biodiversity across the district. This plan is a vital part of the council’s wider Carbon Neutrality Action Plan. The plan focuses on the council’s own operations and identifies over 60 biodiversity actions that will be delivered in 2021 alone. The council has an important role to play in helping to reverse the loss at a local level. Each action set out in the plan supports at least one of the 22 key species or 4 key habitats identified within its scope including species-rich grassland, and declining species like hedgehogs and swifts. The council will engage the local community in biodiversity action so that everyone can play their part in helping to protect the area’s local habitats and species. We must all act now to reverse this decline. Our plan makes it clear what the city council will do to help turn the tide of biodiversity loss. I am optimistic and excited not only about the great work we have planned, but also what we will be able to achieve working with others to benefit both wildlife and people.” To find out more visit https://www.winchester.gov.uk/climatechange-and-energy/climate-emergency-what-we-are-doing-now/ biodiversity

Sun Hill Infant School Needs YOU!

www.homeinstead.co.uk/centralhampshire

ELIZA WALKER Barber

• Located in Central Alresford • All Covid conditions in place • Easy parking

07733 016138 @ecw_barber elizawalker@hotmail.co.uk

LOCKDOWN: WHO CARES?

Home Instead continues to keep people safe and happy through the toughest times.

At Home Instead we pride ourselves on our CAREGivers, their punctuality, consistency and the exceptional quality of care they provide. They are the reason for our success over the last ten years. We also have a highly professional team in the oﬃce, that, in recent months, has proved to be both ﬂexible and resilient.

Are you interested in education and children and community? Then we are just the place for you to come and volunteer in a safe and happy environment. We are looking for 2 local people to join our vibrant team of Governors. There are opportunities for you to share skills you already have or to learn new skills alongside other like minded people as well to be able to take part in and monitor the strategic direction of this Outstanding school. As you may well know, Alresford is an expensive place to live and over the last 2 or 3 years our yearly intake has been falling so we would be interested to hear from anyone who likes a challenge and would like to give something back to the community, particularly in the area of finance and budgets! Please contact our Admin Officer – Alison Davies a.davies@sunhillinf.hants.sch.uk or Vice-Chair of Governors - Rosie Waring Green rosie@22rwg.co.uk for further details.

hants@homeinstead.co.uk

Despite all the uncertainty around us, our care operations have remained the same. Outwardly you could be forgiven for thinking nothing has changed at all: inwardly, of course, much has had to be adapted. We have reorganised the oﬃce team into groups and invested in the technology to facilitate homeworking, nonetheless, the oﬃce in Alresford sounds as busy as it has always done.

The Launch of Live-In Care COVID has also led to an increase clients’ anxieties about leaving their homes and moving into care. This has led us to launch a Live-In Care service to complement our existing hourly visits. We can now support our clients’ needs around the clock in their own

homes. Our Live-In Care oﬀering mirrors the high quality of care that our hourly care does; we approach it in exactly the same way.

Protecting Clients and CAREGivers

The best way to ensure we look after and protect our clients is by having a team of CAREGivers that are second to none. Through recruiting well, maintaining high retention levels and providing excellent training we have a team who are compassionate, experienced and highly capable. This coupled with ample supplies of PPE, strict hygiene control and lots of additional training has meant that business has been able to continue as usual. A major role we play is to protect and maintain the routines of our clients, which is often the reason they wish to remain at home. Families are an important part of that, so our client relationships are as much with family

members as they are with the person requiring the care. We even oﬀer our training to family members so that they can learn more about some of the diﬃculties their loved one is facing. One example of the dedicated care and skill of our team is that during the pandemic in January a couple we care for (both in their late eighties, one living with dementia), developed COVID. With the expertise and dedication of a small team of CAREGivers we were able to help them stay safely at home and we are delighted to say that they have both now fully recovered. Our ethos is to change the face of ageing and it is with extreme passion and commitment that we are here in our local community doing just that. We have always run local social activities enabling our clients to be out and about in the local community and it is this that we miss most at the moment; we can’t wait to get restarted just as soon as we can.

Home Instead Central Hampshire, Construct House, Winchester Road, Alresford, SO24 9EZ

PROFESSIONAL

FEATURE

South Downs National Park News Restoring dew ponds to create new habitats for birds and insects

Work is under way on restoring a dew pond to create an oasis for birds and aquatic insects. The South Downs National Park Authority has partnered with the Norfolk Estate on a nature recovery project to reinstate a wetland habitat at Peppering, near Arundel. Dew ponds are synonymous with the chalk grassland of the South Downs, historically being dug by farmers as a watering hole for livestock and some dating back at least a couple of hundred years. These pretty ponds are also havens for all manner of species, explains Central Downs Ranger Simon Mockford.

The survey will run for six weeks from Monday 8 February to Sunday 21 March. The Whole Estate Plans in question include the following Estates: Wiston, Newton Valence, Iford, Highfield, West Dean, and Eastbourne Downland. The local communities on these estates are likely to have been consulted during the production of the plans and we would like to understand how you were included in the consultation, and how effective you felt this process was. Your feedback on your experience will help us to understand the impact and challenges of the process, and will inform any recommendations for future changes in approach if required.

Claire Kerr, Countryside Policy Manager, who is helping to lead the National Park’s Nature Recovery strategy, said: “This is a great example of partnership working to give a real boost to nature. “With biodiversity under threat across the world, it’s these kind of grassroots initiatives, creating new habitat and stronger ecosystems, that will make such a difference as part of a network of nature recovery projects.”

Small Business Consultancy and Business Start Up Accounts & audit • Business advisory • Tax

Farming and Equine Specialists

• Bookkeeping • IT & online accounting • VAT

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Contact Steve Morgan, an Alresford resident for a free initial consultation on 01252 smo@wiseandco.co.uk Contact Steve Morgan, an711244, Alresford resident on 01252 711244

For friendly, professional, proactive advice please contact: Butler & Co, Bennett House, The Dean, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9BH T: 01962 735544 E: julie@butler-co.co.uk www.butler-co.co.uk

or email smo@wiseandco.co.uk for a free initial consultation

www.wiseandco.co.uk Wey Court West, Union Road, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7PT www.wiseandco.co.uk Wey Court West, Union Road, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7PT

SDNPA Whole Estate Plan Evaluation

OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

“They also make good breeding sites for frogs, toads and newts. According to Pond Conservation small clean water ponds such as dewponds can be exceptionally rich wildlife habitats.

The Authority is looking at creating a network of ponds in the area.

Full range of Accountancy, Auditing, Taxation and Payroll services tailored to suit your needs

Whole Estate Plans are an important planning tool in a National Park that has a number of major landowners. These plans help to identify opportunities and aid decision-making for both landowners and the National Park Authority.

A restored dew pond at nearby South Stoke “Dew ponds are oases for wildlife, providing drinking and bathing water for birds, and a home for dragonflies and other aquatic invertebrates,” says Simon.

They typically support around 70 per cent of all freshwater species found in lowland landscapes. The wildlife value of ponds is also considerably enhanced where you have a network of them, making it easier for species to move between them, meaning populations are more resilient local climate change.”

since 1992

Take part in survey on Whole Estate Plans

A survey is launching this month to look at the process of creating them. Land Use Consultants has been appointed to evaluate the development of Whole Estate Plans (WEPs) for the South Downs National Park Authority.

Tim Squire - A restored dew pond at nearby South Stoke

Your Local Accountants

IN LINE WITH COVID19 GUIDELINES LUC (Land Use Consultants) has been commissioned to conduct a consultation on the process of developing Whole Estate Plans within the South Downs National Park. Whole Estate Plans demonstrate the overall position and aspirations of an estate. They are designed to support estates, particularly those with larger land holdings which include complex commercial, social and environmental activities. So far, six Whole Estate Plans have been approved by the South Downs National Park Authority (see map below). These have been for: West Dean Estate, Highfield Estate, Iford Estate, Wiston Estate, Newton Valence Estate, and Eastbourne Downland Estate. If you live, work, or are directly involved with any of the above Estates, we would love to hear about your experience and understanding of the Whole Estate Plan on the estate relevant to you. For more information visit: southdowns.gov.uk

WE ALSO OFFER PHONE & VIDEO APPOINTMENTS

3 East Street, Alresford, SO24 9EE Tel 01962 736926 email: mail@gibbonssolicitors.co.uk

Andrew Bevis

Architectural Designs & Drawings Alresford, Hampshire & Much Wenlock, Shropshire

Mob: 07775 524891

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Gibbons Gibbons Solicitors Solicitors Limited Limited Authorised Authorised and and Regulated Regulated by by the the Solicitors Solicitors Regulation Regulation Authority Authority no. no. 617854’ 617854’

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COMMUNITY / PROFESSIONAL Alresford Chamber – Lighting up Alresford – LED project In 2018 we had notice that the Alresford Chamber could not purchase any more incandescent bulbs that are used on the Christmas trees every year. We formulated a plan to ensure that we could move over to the more expensive, but environmentally friendly, LED bulbs. This was no mean task, as we had limited time to ensure that we had enough LED bulbs in place to ensure the project could continue as normal. We would like to thank the NATC for supporting us with half the extra costs for this, so that the Alresford chamber, in conjunction with the Alresford Pigs, continue with this delightful event in the usual way. Our chair Fiona Isaacs wishes to personally thank the NATC for their support of the grant. We would like to thank the Alresford Pigs and Chamber volunteers for all their continued support to this event, the residents and businesses who purchase the trees and to everyone for their support and understanding in 2020 when we had to reluctantly reduce the amount of trees due to Covid-19. We hope to be back to normal later this year. Market Town Events We will resume market town events once we are able to. These will be posted on the event boards in town and a full list on our events page (https://www.alresfordchamber.co.uk/alresford/ AlresfordEvents/) Any businesses or individuals wishing to participate, sponsor or generally assist with any of our projects please do email us.

ADVERTISING OFFER ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE FOR AS LITTLE AS £45 PER MONTH

P RO U D TO N OW O F F E R T H E P E O P L E O F A L R E S F O R D O U R S E RV I C E S

(PLUS VAT, MINIMUM 12 MONTH BOOKING FOR PRICE SHOWN)

For more information

01962 735137

stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

• Traditional & Dignified Funerals at Affordable Prices • Funeral Plans at Fixed Prices, Why Pay More? We are a local independent family run business which operates on a 24 hours basis.You will always have a personal continuity and we will go through all the arrangements and look after you throughout.

Together we are stronger Keep track of our events, follow us on Facebook Twitter & Instagram @AlresfordChamberofCommerce / AlresfordCofC / info@alresfordchamber.co.uk /www.alresfordchamber.co.uk

You are an extension of our family when in our care. Direct Cremation: £1275 inclusive Bespoke Cremations from £2195 inclusive Traditional Burial from £2395 plus Cemetery fees

C O N TAC T U S UNIQUE AND BESPOKE We recognise that every life and therefore every funeral is unique. We have been providing bespoke, personalised and affordable funerals for over 160 years.

SINCE 1860 The Steel family have proudly served the communites of Winchester, Alresford and the Itchen Valley for four generations.

DEDICATED SUPPORT Along with our experienced and dedicated team we are personally here to help, support and guide you 24 hours a day.

winchesterfunerals.co.uk

01962 862333

24 The Dean, Alresford, SO24 9AZ Tel: 01962 388470 (24 hour) Email: info@wessexfuneralservices.co.uk 106 Battery Hill, Winchester, SO22 4BH Tel: 01962 855773 (24 hour) Email: winchester@wessexfuneralservices.co.uk www.wessexfuneralservices.co.uk

Forum_180x126mm.indd 1

23/09/2020 17:52

Also located in Eastleigh & New Milton

FOOD & DRINK

Easter Simnel Cake Simnel cakes have been known since at least medieval times. Simnel cake is a light fruitcake formerly eaten during the pre-Easter period, a traditional cake for Easter Sunday. Simnel cakes are often associated with Mothering Sunday, also known as Simnel-Sunday. Equipment

An 8 inch round deep (removable bottom) cake tin. Line it with a cake liner.

For the Marzipan

190g icing sugar 190g gorund almonds 4 tsp lemon juice icing sugar for dusting Apricot Jam for top of the cake

For the Cake Mixture 190g self raising flower 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp nutmeg 3 eggs 165g butter 165g light brown sugar 50g sultanas 150g currants

Deli Delicious

30g glace cherries 50g mixed glace peel icing sugar butter for the cake tin

Method

Fresh Fruit & Veg, Smoked Fish, Meats, Specialist Cheeses, Baking Goods, Fresh Juice, Coffees and Teas, Sandwiches, Snacks, Fresh Artisan Bread. We also have a wide range of lovingly crafted homemade food using quality ingredients.

Create your marzipan by seiving the icing sugar into a bowl, add almonds and stir to combine. Add the lemon juice until the mixture starts to clump together. Knead until you have a ball of marizpan paste. Take some of the paste and roll it into a circle, place the baking tin ontop of the paste and cut out a circle. Set aside the remaining marzipan for later.

We offer a Home Delivery Service for £2.50 with a minimum order £15 (Delivery Tue-Fri) Online Ordering Service Available

Pre-heat the oven 150C. Measure out the cake ingredients into a bowl and beat throughoughly until blended thoroughly. Use half the mixture in the cake tin. Top with a layer of marzipan mixture, spoon the remaining cake mix on the top. Bake inthe oven for 2hrs (approx) until golden brown, cover the top of the cake whilst cooking if it is browning too quickly. Remove from the tin once cooked, leave to cool for 10 minutes before trying to remove from the tin. Once cooled completely warm the jam and brush the top of the cake, roll out another circle of marizpan to cover the top of the cake and crimp the edges.

If there is something you would like to order that we don’t have on the website then please call us.

T: 01962 733189 www.mange2.co.uk

Roll the remaining marzipan mix into 11 even sized balls and place around the edge of the cake. Finally grill carefully until lightly browned, one to two minutes, or use a blow torch.

ONLINE WINE TASTING New Wines at Easter - £60 per �cket

The Spring is coming so lets enjoy 6 brand new wines that will be perfect for the season ahead. The full price of these 6 bottles is over £85! Join us for this our 16th Annual Easter Tasting. Book your place by: Weds 17th March

EVENT DATE: Saturday 27th March 7.30pm Call: 01962 732002

BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW VIA: Email: simon@tngwine.co.uk Online: www.thenakedgrape.co.uk

RETAIL / MOTORING

COMMUNITY

USEFUL LOCAL

INFORMATION Emergency Services (Ambulance, Fire, Police) Tel: 999

Non Emergency Medical Services Tel: 111

Electricity Emergency 24hrs, 7 days a week Tel: 105

Gas Emergency

Royal Hampshire County Winchester, Hampshire Tel: 01962 863535

Library

Police

Alresford Library Monday 10.00 - 1.00 Tuesday 2.00 - 5.00 Wed/Sun Closed Thursday 10.00 - 1.00 Friday 10.00 - 7.00 Saturday 10.00 - 1.00 Tel: 0300 555 1387

Citizens Advice Winchester Citizens

Alresford and District Neighbourhood Watch Association

24 hrs, 7 days a week Tel: 0800 111 999

Water Emergency 24 hrs, 7 days a week Tel: 0330 303 0368

Non-Emergency Services Tel: 101

Offers free, confidential advice to everyone in the community. Call them for free on: 0808 278 7861 or email advice@ cawinchesterdistrict.org.uk

Councils

Alresford Town Council Arlebury Park, The Avenue, Alresford, Hants. SO24 9EP. Tel: 01962 732079 East Hampshire District Council Penns Place, Petersfield, GU31 4EX www.easthants.gov.uk Tel: 01730 266551 Hampshire County The Castle, Winchester, SO23 8UJ www.hants.gov.uk Tel: 0300 555 1375 Winchester City City Offices, Colebrook Street, Winchester, SO23 9LJ www.winchester.gov.uk Tel: 01962 840222

Hospitals

Alton Community Alton, Hampshire

Tel: 0300 003 2196 Basingstoke & North Hants Basingstoke, Hampshire Tel: 01256 473202

Newsletter available at www.alresford.org/ neigbourhoodwatch. To report a crime anonymously call Crimestoppers: Tel: 0800 555 111 contact:

Recycling

Prospect Road , Alresford Open seven days a week Tel: 01962 735422 https://customer.bookingbug. com/?client=hantsrecyclingce ntres#/location You can also call us on 02380 179 949, Monday to Friday 9am to 5:30pm.

Schools

Cheriton Primary School Cheriton, Alresford Tel: 01962 771278 Four Marks Primary School Four Marks, Alton, GU34 5AS Tel: 01962 772200 Itchen Abbas County Primary School Itchen Abbas, SO21 1BE Tel: 01962 779310

Medstead Primary School Medstead, Alton, GU34 5LG Tel: 01420 562824

Beauworth Village Hall Tel: 07768 807733 bookings@beauworthvillage. com

Perins School Pound Hill, Alresford, SO24 9BS www.perins.net Tel: 01962 734361

Bighton Village Hall Ian Johnson: 01962 736556 bookings@bighton.org.uk

Ropley Primary School Church St. Ropley, SO24 ODS Tel: 01962 772381 Sun Hill Infant School Sun Lane, Alresford www.sunhill-inf.hants.sch.uk Tel: 01962 732632 Sun Hill Junior School Sun Lane, Alresford www.sunhill-jun.hants.sch.uk Tel: 01962 732801

Surgeries & Chemists Hartog Dental Practice 4 Pound Hill, Alresford www.hartogdental.co.uk Tel: 01962 733580

MyDentist 38 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 733580 Alresford Pharmacy Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732445

Bishop’s Sutton Village Hall Booking Secretary 01962 732114

Itchen Abbas and Avington Village Hall Tel: 07947 191229 manager@iaavillagehall.co.uk

Alresford Surgery Station Road, Alresford www.alresfordsurgery.co.uk Tel: 01962 732345 Mansfield Park Surgery Lymington Bottom Road, Medstead, GU34 5EW Tel: 01420 562922

Martyr Worthy Village Hall Tel: 01962 779701 martyrworthyvillagehall@ gmail.com

Out of Hours Service Anyone requiring a chemist service out of practice hours will find their nearest point is Sainsburys, Badger Farm, Winchester or Tesco, Winnall, Winchester

Ropley Coffee Room Sue Buckell: 01962 772671 or email: coffeeroom@btinternet. com

Alresford Comm Centre Tel: 01962 732057

For enquiries please call:

07712 545 700

Cheriton Village Hall For more information contact Rosie on: 01962 771611 www.cheritonvillagehall.co.uk Christy Hall, Old Alresford Peter Stokes 07775 434 980 www.oldalresfordvillagehall. org.uk

Ropley Parish Hall Contact - Mrs Norma Day Tel: 01962 772267 rph.bookings @gmail.com ww.ropleyparishhall.org.uk

Including: Watches, medals, bronzes, oriental ceramics, quality antiques, house clearance/insurance valuations

Happy to arrange home calls by appointment karendalmeny@gmail.com

Bramdean and Hinton Ampner Village Hall Tel: 01962 771261 or Contact us via www. bramdeanvillagehall.btck. co.uk

Kilmeston Village Hall Call Di Bye: 01962 771086 www.kilmestonvillagehall. co.uk or email bookings@ kilmestonvillagehall.co.uk

Town & Village Halls

One of ITV's Most Popular Antiques Experts

BEST CASH PRICES PAID FOR: Gold & Silver Jewellery & Antiques

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Oakleaf Stationery Ltd

OPENING TIMES Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9.30am - 1pm

A comprehensive range of all types of stationery – business and social Supplier of printer cartridges, art and craft materials, party and sewing items and a good selection of childrens stickers, colouring and painting books.

SERVICES WE OFFER... Photocopying Laminating Document Binding Scan to Email Personalised Printing Agent Transfer to DVD Agent

We are also a UPS Access Point Visit us at : 56 West Street, Alresford, Hants SO24 9AU 01962 736116 oakleaf.stat56@gmail.com

AVAILABLE FOR:

PRESTIGE CARS OF ALRESFORD TEL: 01962 865602 MOBILE: 07752 570787 OR VISIT WWW.PRESTIGECARSALRESFORD.CO.UK

PRIVATE HIRE AIRPORT TRANSFERS OTHER JOURNEYS

AVAILABLE FOR:

PRESTIGE CARS OF ALRESFORD TEL: 01962 865602 MOBILE: 07752 570787 OR VISIT

PRIVATE HIRE AIRPORT TRANSFERS OTHER JOURNEYS

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Specialising in 'your Social Life Lifts'

07838 167117 Steve Cleverley Pre-Booked Only

Alresford Town Private Hire Ltd www.alresfordtownprivatehireltd.com Alresford Town Private Hire

MOTORING / HOME

MOTORING

No r t h Mo to r Company

ALRESFORD MOTOR SERVICES LTD

Holden Farm, Cheriton, Alresford, Hants, SO24 ONX

MOT TEST CENTRE

• • • • •

Welding specialists Tyres for cars and motorcycles 4 wheel laser alignment LPG for sale for cars Recovery services

• Free collection • Diagnostic testing (including Landrover) • Courtesy cars • Certificated engineers

Independent Garage and MOT Testing Centre

Stockists Of Ca During the current Corona virus outbreak, if you would like to see a car locally, please give me a call on 01489 878879, or out of hours, 07811 041653. 'Masks and gloves available, all cars disinfected prior to delivery. The following cars have been carefully selected because of their low mileage, excellent condition and service history.

UNIT 5, SHELF HOUSE, NEW FARM ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9QE

Tel: 01962 733888 e:mike1ams1@aol.com

email: franco@carpediemec.com www.carpediemec.com

New Farm Motor Services Ltd New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QE

01962 732338 L.P.G.A approved autogas conversions www.autogas.com

Allows your petrol engine vehicle to run on Autogas, a fuel costing approximately 76p per ltr, with the environmental benefits of a 20% reduction in carbon dioxide production and 2000 times fewer particulates produced from the exhaust fumes when compared with a diesel. Widely available across the country and locally in Winnall, Winchester and West Meon Hut service station. The government has committed to this fuel difference for the future.

• COURTESY CARS

All makes of cars and vans serviced and repaired All makes of truck and horsebox up to 7500kg maintained and prepared for ministry plating tests

www.andrews-autosource.co.uk/vehicle-stock CERTIFICATED ENGINEERS • RECOVERY AVAILABLE •

Contact Mike, Shane or Steve on: 01962 734466

www.servicepointalresford.co.uk

Shelf House, New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QE

Repairs Servicing M.O.T

WILCAN MOTOR COMPANY LTD

Servicing, MOT, Tyres & Bodywork Repairs

FREE Local collection and courtesy cars (T&C's apply) Free Safety Checks

Please ring our friendly team on: 01962 736186 andy.wilcan@live.co.uk www.wilcan.co.uk THE LONG BARN, WINCHESTER ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9EZ

CAMPER VAN, 5 SEATS, 4-5 BERTH BRAND NEW PROFESSIONAL CONVERSION 2018 Vauxhall Vivaro Sportive, 12,000 miles, Air conditioning, alloy wheels, parking sensors, reversing camera, lifting roof, 12v fridge, gas hob, sink, mains hook up, 110 amp leisure battery £32,995

VIEW OUR CURRENT STOCK AT

M.O.T Testing Centre Class 7 Vans from 3,000 - 3,500kg Class 4 Cars and Vans up to 3,000kg

2014 (14) Land Rover Freelander 2, Automatic, SE Tech, Sat nav, cruise, Parking sensors (F&R). heated leather seats, Demo + 1 owner, full history, 51,000 miles £14500 2017 (17) Vauxhall Mokka X 1.4 turbo 1 owner, 16,000 miles £10995 2016 (66) Honda Jazz 1.3 EX , 5 door, 1 owner, 17,000 miles, £30 road tax £9995 2016 (16) Peugeot 308 SW 1.2 Active Estate 130 bhp 2 owners, £ 20 road tax 34,000 miles £7995 2017 (17) Suzuki Celerio SZ4, 1 owner, Zero road tax, 11,000 miles £6995 2016 (66) Fiat Punto 1.2 Easy Plus, 5 door, a/c 1 owner, 8,700 miles £6495 2014 (64) Ford Fiesta 1.2 Zetec 5 door 2 owners, 46,000 miles SOLD

Engine Diagnostics M.O.T Tests Cambelt Replacement Exhaust Supply & Fitting Tyre Supply & Fitting Electrical Repairs Clutch Repair Courtesy Car

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Standards you can rely on for airport, ferry port and city transfers Carpe Diem Executive Cars has built its reputation for excellence, professionalism and reliability offering a premium service at competitive prices

• FREE COLLECTION

Service and repair of most makes of vehicle, motorcycles and classic cars

Telephone Gary or Andy on 01962 771331 or 771881 www.northmotor.co.uk info@northmotor.co.uk

The trusted private transport service

MOT's WHILE YOU WAIT

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Competitively priced tyres - Batteries - Vehicle Diagnostics - Exhausts

Cars, motorcycles and vans up to 3,000kg. All makes serviced and repaired.

Class 4 MOT's

Carefully Selected Cars

Established in1999 - All makes of car serviced and repaired - Saab approved repairer and Subaru specialist Free collection, delivery and courtesy car (when available)

MOT TEST CENTRE FOR: Class 1 & 2 Motorcycles

Andrews Autosource

SERVICE POINT

PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL CARS HAVE SERVICE HISTORY TAYLORS GARAGE, HIGH STREET, DROXFORD, SO32 3QL

TEL: 01489 878 879 EVENING TEL: 01962 732995

• equestrian maintenance • Ploughing • field cultivation • Hedge cutting • Forestry • spraying specialist • fencing • topping • wood thining • Tree Felling & branch lopping

Load of logs - £70 per truck load

Tel: 01962 735452 / Mob: 07880 527049 www.appletoncontracting.co.uk

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Mr William Sanderson, we know him as Sandy was born in Galahiels in 1921 his family then moved up to Stornoway. In 1937 Sandy returned to Galashiels to take up an apprenticeship in engineering.. In 1941 he the then joined the RAF to be trained as an aero engineer whereby he served 18 months of his 5 years service in west Africa. On leaving the RAF in 1946 Sandy took employment with the Rowntree Trust as a maintenance engineer.

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It was during this time that Sandy received his calling to Christianity and in 1949 he joined the Christian Literature Crusade and became a missionary in partnership with his wife. This took Sandy and his wife travelling as mobile missionaries from 1968-1979, becoming Head of the Mission. On his return Sandy move to Valdean park, and after the death of his wife, threw himself into missionary work whereby he re-married a fellow missionary worker. They were then sent Australia and for a year enjoying there work together in Sidney. Sadly, he lost his second wife in 2008 and lived alone until finally moving into Bailey House, Abbeyfield in 2018. Here, Sandy is well loved and respected by staff and resident alike.

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Our approach is simple: We are proud to run a celebrated professional carpet and upholstery cleaning business, and we insist on providing you with good oldfashioned service and value. Call now and find out why our award-winning service is probably the most requested carpet cleaning the oflocal Have anyinthree Stockbridgeyour areacarpets cleaned The next thing for you to do for 01962 just £87690 total!005 is call us on we’ll welcome your call, answer your questions and take care of everything for you.

However the forthcoming local elections take place, Winchester Action on Climate Change (WinACC) suggests that you might ask candidates one or more of the following very important questions, whether this is on the doorstep, by phone, or on line in some way. Their views on these topics, whether from answering questions or from their leaflets, might help you choose where your vote goes. 1. 2.

The climate emergency is much more important than party politics. Are you prepared to work together with the other parties on this, regardless of who wins the election? What will you do to reduce traffic blight, particularly in the

city (cars are bad for trade, our lungs and the climate)? How will you make the city more cyclist and walker friendly? How will you improve rural bus services? 3. How will your Council help businesses to create green jobs - for instance growing food - and green their businesses (supply chain and operations)? 4. How will you ensure that all new homes are designed and constructed to net zero emission standards? 5. How will you encourage a change from gas heating, both domestic and business, to electric heating (heat pumps perhaps), and installation of solar panels on roofs? 6. How is your council going to persuade national government to put its money where its mouth is – for instance to shift spending from roads to serious emission reductions, such as green transport and heating? 7. As a councillor, what have you been doing, or what actions do you intend to take, to show leadership on climate change issues? Brian Shorter, WinACC volunteer winacc.org.uk

Deal 2: Deal 3:

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we specialise in cleaning and refreshing 3 piece suites (at our current offer price of £97). Fabric Master, our special upholstery and cleaning system is safe, gentle, and very effective. Fibres are restored to their original beauty and softness you’ll see!

Deal 2

Tel 01962 690 005 Have your three piece suite freshened up for just £97!Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a selection of frequently asked questions especially for you sceptics (you know who you are). 1. When you say ‘carpet’ what do you mean? We mean average size areas, say 10x12ft ish. But we don’t quibble if the areas are a little larger - it’s all done on fairness really. 2. Do you move furniture? Our pricing policy reflects the time it takes to clean working around furniture, rather than moving it. any three carpets That said, we are Have for example, happy to move your three piece suite backwards and forwards cleaning under it and replacing it back into piece position. What we don’t price into the job at these discount prices is and your three moving large pieces of furniture like bookcases, sideboards or wardrobes. Similarly we are not insured upflat-screen for to move electricalsuite items,freshened in particular tvs. Again we apply common sense and fairness to the situation and inevitable we do end up moving some furniture around, even at these discount prices. 3. just £167! Are there any ‘hidden’ extra costs? The prices quoted above are fully-inclusive and are the actual prices you will pay.

Deal 3

Carpet Price

£77

Carpet Price Carpet

Tel: 01962 690 005 or 07790 883507

Forthcoming Council Elections

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Deal 1

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This wonderful man celebrated his 100th birthday on Tuesday 16 February. Due to Covid rules a small celebration was held in the car par of Bailey House. The local RAF association were present along with the standard bearer and several members of the association. Derek Sweetenham then presented Sandy with a cake whilst listening to the RAF flyby march to add atmosphere to the occasion. Along with that Sandy received over 100 cards and gifts as well as messages from all over the world along with one from her majesty sending her good wishes.

Deal 1:

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Carpet

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1 £47

Carpet Price

2 £67

Carpet Price

3 £87

Carpet Price

4 £107

Carpet Price

5 £127

The Polite Painter Based in Alresford All domestic and commercial decoration work considered Please contact Ben for a free no obligation quote tel: 07427 618 507 * Politeness subject to availability

High quality domestic services Guaranteed

COMMUNITY Maid Marian Ad 90 x 135

Application for a solar farm on a 53 acre site at Godsfield, just north of Old Alresford.

Things seem to be moving in the right direction towards a possible relaxing of Lockdown. With any luck the venues will be able to reopen around Easter. Here is a heartening photo of the garden at the back of the Gallery – a great place for a Spring stroll and a cup of tea after viewing some of the famous Ceramic collection. Fingers crossed.

Roman Shoes (courtesy of Jane Hurst) As any archaeologist will know, some of the best and most interesting items can be found amongst the rubbish of previous

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Maid Marian telephone: 01962 736713 email: enquiries@maidmariancleaners.co.uk web: www.maidmariancleaners.co.uk • Regular cleaning and end • of tenancy cleaning • One off spring cleans • Washing and Ironing • Carpet cleaning • Building maintenance • including painting and • decorating • Shopping • Man with a van

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taken such a battering, over many months now, and need support. The Local Plan for Winchester District, adopted in 2017, strives for a ‘High Quality Environment’ and a 2020-2025 Council Plan reaffirms these values and the planning policies that support them. Whilst solar makes an important contribution to renewable energy, banks of panels (over

generations. Downstairs in the Curtis Museum are two finds which always appeal to our visitors - two Roman shoes that were dug up locally from the bottom of a late 3rd century well. Both are made from leather with iron studs or hobnails underneath to try to stop the wearer slipping and to make the shoes last longer. The soles of both were made with three layers of leather while the tops look like a single layer - and this was probably held together with laces.

The examples in Alton’s Museum are said to be a child’s and an adult’s although they are not too dissimilar in size. So how did they find themselves in a well? It is difficult to imagine what someone would be doing for a shoe to fall accidently down a well unless they had been lowered down for some

20,000 of them), fencing and ancillary buildings would be alien and incongruous in this sort of valued setting. Let's look to industrial and brownfield sites and the roofs of large buildings as the right locations for such development. Jan Field Chairman, The Alresford Society

Colin Joyce • Reliable friendly service • Repairs or installation • Kitchen, bathroom, shower • Outside tap, cold water • Storage cisterns, taps, WC • No call out charge

01962 776545

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telephone: 01962 736713 email: enquiries@maidmariancleaners.co.uk web: www.maidmariancleaners.co.uk Wallpaper Specialist Andover

D E C O R AT I N G I N H A M P S H I R E S I N C E 1 9 8 0

reason. Hopefully, that did not happen to children - so did they throw theirs in? Was it uncomfortable or not liked? Only one of each pair was found. Although only these two examples seem to have been found during the excavations of the Roman settlement at ‘Neatham’ (on the eastern side of the village of Holybourne), other sites have turned up large numbers where there have been the correct damp conditions to preserve leather. For example - there are 80 shoes on show in just one case at Vindolanda. Are shoes the best-preserved pieces of clothing that are found on Roman sites? Did the material of other garments get reused in the Roman equivalent of ‘make-do-and-mend’ or were they passed down the social scale until they wore out? In chilly Britain did they use leather for items other than shoes and the subligaculum or loin cloth? In archaeology, as in history, one question always leads to others - although now, of course, we have time to think about them. Tel: 01420 82802 www.hampshireculture.org.uk/curtis-museum www.hampshireculture.org.uk/allen-gallery

D T

The Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery, Alton

31/1/10

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Solar energy good; this location definitely not good. On behalf of the Alresford Society, a detailed objection to this application is with the planners at Winchester. This is rolling Hampshire countryside, an important area for wildlife, including breeding pairs of protected birds and other species. It is immediately next to the longdistance walk from Windsor to Winchester, the Three Castles footpath, originally used by King John in the 13th century. Listed heritage assets are extremely close by too: Armsworth House & Park and Godsfield chapel, with its strong associations with the Knights Templar in the 13th/14th centuries. Covid-19 is making us rather more aware of our environment and the importance of being able to enjoy tranquil countryside for its mental and physical health benefits. And countryside and heritage assets act as magnets for visitors, vital to the local economy. Local shops and hostelries have

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COMMUNITY Beltain Festival - Online

The safety of all involved; attendees, volunteers, performers and staff is our top priority, and with the attendee numbers we usually expect, and social distancing restrictions still in place, it would not be possible to safely celebrate the festival together in person.

e clusive Double Glazing Ltd

UPGRADE YOUR WINDOWS & DOORS

However we are busy planning a special way to mark the event and celebrate together online instead. Please pop the date in your diary and keep an eye on our website and social media pages as we reveal more about what we have planned and how you can join us. Saturday 1st May 2021 Sadly we have reached the difficult decision that it will not be possible to celebrate Beltain together in person again this year.

Beltain is usually Butser Ancient Farm’s biggest fundraiser of the year, with the money raised during the event supporting our ongoing educational and research

Alresford's Conservatory and Window Experts

WINDOWS, DOORS, CONSERVATORIES • Supply & Installation • New Handles, Letterboxes, Locks • Broken Sealed-Units replaced

program of work. We really appreciate all the support we have received through this difficult time, and hope you can join us, from wherever you may be, on the 1st May.

OTHER SERVICES

Thank you.

• Fascias, Soffits & Gutters

Jackie’s County Corner for March

• Key Cutting & Locksmith Services

take-up was low. We are awaiting news of the 2021-22 schemes now. See more on www. hants.gov.uk/broadband or contact me for details.

FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE

CALL: 01962 732091

Census 21 The ten year census is being held on Sunday 21 March 21- this time it’s broadly online but you can see more on the website www.census.gov.uk or if you prefer social media: #Census2021

Revised Minerals and Waste Plan This is being reviewed as the previous Minerals and Waste plan was published in 2013 and the ways in which we use building materials, recycling and disposal of waste has changed considerably in a decade too. Planning the sites is essential because these sites don’t always make good neighbours. One example is the proposal for the inert waste recycling plant at Three Maids Hill which was rejected by HCC last month. County Council Accounts The County budget went to Council in February. The Council tax rise includes 3% for adult/children social care, but not enough: it will raise £21m but costs have increased to nearly £30million Funding for Broadband: During 20-21 HCC supported the Government Gigabit scheme with a £1m fund for this county, but because of the difficulties of the scheme and Covid,

Connect 4 Communities The County Council has funds for play schemes at half term and holidays. Schemes must include elements of play, activity and food at lunchtime, primarily for children and families needing free school meals. It is open to childminders, sports clubs and schools too. Contact me or Suzanne.smith2@hants.gov. uk direct It’s called ‘Your Place, Your Plan’ The consultation on the Local Plan Strategic Issues and Options is open. The response deadline is 12th April 2021. Go to www.localplan.winchester.gov.uk to take part-either online at one of the four public sessions or on the website. Short , longer and full versions of the questionnaire available too! Footpaths and Bridleways The delivery plan for the Worthy Down to Winchester bridleway has been agreed and it is hoped it will be in place for Sept 21. The final part of the route is being worked on as

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we speak: I have always wanted the route to go into Winchester, not end on the Andover Road. I hope this persistence will pay off! Flooding, A31, and Solar Farms: There’s a lot more to discuss, and I cannot hold surgeries for a while yet, but please see my website through the month or contact me direct, my details below. Cllr Jackie Porter, 07973 696085, Jackie. porter@hants.gov.uk www.jackieporter.co.uk Twitter: @JackieLibDem New Facebook: jackie.porter.5036 County Councillor Jackie Porter www.jackieporter.co.uk 07973 696 085 Jackie.porter@hants.gov.uk

Manufacturers of

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Hardwood gates Gate automation Intercom systems Vehicle barriers

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WINCHESTER

DON S DOORS

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WOOD FLOOR SANDING & RESTORATION HAND FINISHED NEW WOOD FLOORS BESPOKE CABINETRY

w: winchesterwoodfloors.co.uk e: info@winchesterwoodfloors.co.uk t: 01962 733016

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COMMUNITY

New Alresford Town Council Annual Town Assembly The Annual Town Assembly will be held virtually on Tuesday 16th March 2021 at 7.30pm and is an AGM giving residents the opportunity to hear about Council activities and grants awarded during the past year. You can access the meeting by clicking on the join meeting link on the agenda which will be on our website. Do please join us. Spring clean

been postponed, work in our parks continues. In January, an additional 10 trees were planted in Arlebury Park, to add to the 10 trees, and the hedgerow, planted last year. The trees are a mix of Oak, Beech, Walnut, Whitebeam, Wild Cherry and Field Maple and along with changes to the mowing regime to leave the grass edges longer first implemented last year, are helping to enhance the range of habitats, biodiversity, and natural feel of the park.

diligently displayed signage guiding parents and carers on using our play areas safely. Disappointingly, they have often been torn down. We try to replace them straightaway, as your safety and your children’s safety is of the utmost importance to us. Please contact us if you notice signage is missing or damaged. Safety guidelines for our playparks can be found on our website under the coronavirus information page. Can you help? We are appealing for information as to the whereabouts of any family members of Mr Newton Dickenson, who lived from 1895 to 1977 and has a memorial plaque on the now defunct water fountain at Stratton Bates Recreation Ground. If you have any information, please email deputyclerk@newalresfordtc.gov.uk

Annual Litter Pick At the start of Spring, we would normally be planning the Alresford Annual Litter pick. Sadly, this looks increasingly unlikely. But if you’d like, you could have your own mini litter pick with your family group or bubble around where you live or on your daily walk. We have litter picks that you can borrow, and we can provide black sacks as well. We would be delighted to publicise your efforts in the forum, website and Facebook, so please let us know how you get on. How about a bit of family friendly competition? We look forward to hearing from you.

Zip wire, Arlebury Park The zip wire has now been repaired. Thanks to our younger residents for their patience whilst it was out of action. John, our caretaker, has carefully refitted and greased it, so there’s plenty of zip. Enjoy! We inspect our play areas regularly and we have identified some of the play equipment which could benefit from some tlc: a good clean, repairs or a lick of paint. Maintenance is now underway.

Around our parks Even though other plans have

Since the playgrounds were reopened last July, we have

ARC At Arlebury Recreation Centre the car park was closed for a day so that the surface could be repaired. Both soakaways for the car park have been inspected as the ARC and our office have been flooded during heavy rainfall. Following the survey,

they have now been emptied and linked and it is hoped that the flood risk has now been reduced.

Plumbing and Heating

REFURBISHMENT • INTERIOR RECONSTRUCTION KITCHENS & BATHROOMS • GENERAL BUILDING Local, experienced, and here to help you. Andy Cliff • 01962 738883 • cliffbuilding@gmail.com

PR AERIALS DIGITAL TV & SATELLITE SPECIALIST

Local Plan Winchester City Council is inviting public feedback on the new Local Plan. A Local Plan is a document which sets out planning policies and proposals for new development. They are keen to encourage as many residents as possible across the district to take part. There is an online consultation which is open until 12th April 2021. Please visit www.winchester. gov.uk for more details.

Census Sunday 21st March 2021 is the next Census. Details will be sent out by the Census teams to each household. If you require any more details, please visit www.gov.uk New Alresford Town Council Arlebury Park, The Avenue, New Alresford, SO24 9EP Phone: 01962 732079 www.newalresford-tc.gov.uk

MICHAEL J SLY All plumbing and heating works from fixing a leak to installing a full Heating System or Bathroom Suite

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EDUCATION

St Swithuns, Winchester 10,000 hours of purposeful practice or of unstructured dabbling. Which is most likely to make your child successful? Who will be more successful, the child who dedicates herself to at least 10,000 hours of purposeful practice on, let’s say, the piano from an early age or the child who dabbles with a range of instruments? Which is more likely to become a professional musician? It turns out that the answer is significantly more nuanced than I would have thought before reading Range: How Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein. Books like Bounce by Matthew Syed and Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell have popularised the notion that at least 10,000 hours are required to become an elite musician or sportsperson. Epstein agrees that this is true in some fields, those he calls ‘kind’ learning environments. These are ones, such as chess or golf, where patterns repeat, feedback is immediate and clear, and similar challenges occur repeatedly. However, most domains are ‘wicked’. In these environments, feedback can be confusing and patterns are either non-existent or difficult to spot. It turns out that in these domains, varied experience is far more useful than a large amount of practice focused on one area. For many parents, it feels counterintuitive

to suggest that it is at best pointless and at worst harmful not to get their children ahead by starting them early on music, sport, Mandarin or whatever is the hobby of the moment. Contrary to popular belief, most top sports players were not ruthlessly channelled into one sport from an early age. Rather, they played a wide range of sports before specialising relatively late. And yet, most parents, understandably, imagine that concentrating on one activity will bring more success more quickly to their offspring. In school, we similarly assume that rapid progress is the best sort of progress and that getting lots of the answers right in class indicates successful learning. David Epstein tells us that actually we don’t want our pupils to get things right all the time. We want them to struggle to make connections for themselves rather than mindlessly following patterns. Alarmingly, research has shown that although a significant percentage of questions in class start out as making-connections problems, in some countries well-meaning teachers give so many hints that not one of these questions end up as making-connections problems. The educational culture in countries such as the US, and indeed the UK, is such that pupils don’t expect to struggle in class without the teacher intervening. Teachers whose pupils get questions right in class are highly ranked by their pupils. The pupils feel as though they are making good

progress. But when they came to take tests a few weeks or months later, they performed worse than pupils who had struggled more in class on the same topic. Why? Because, amazingly, struggling to generate an answer on your own, even a wrong one, enhances subsequent learning. What can we do as parents? Explain to our children why we are not going to help them with their homework, make them a healthy snack and encourage them to come to find us when they have solved the problem themselves. Will this work? There is a good chance if your child’s school encourages the same approach. What can we take away from Range, which I thoroughly recommend you read? That we shouldn’t worry whether our child is the first to master a skill, that we should encourage them to try a range of activities, that desirable difficulty is important in the classroom and that we accept that real, sustainable progress may look more like zigzagging than we had ever imagined.

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Making a happy start to school Insider secrets from the experts at St Swithun’s Prep Thursday 25 March, 7pm

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EDUCATION / COMMUNITY Godolphin’s Wiltshire Digital Drive 2021 Godolphin School is delighted to announce a new partnership with Wiltshire Digital Drive, a company distributing much-needed refurbished computers to the community. With so many children struggling to access online learning due to lack of resources, the Godolphin community is keen to do all it can to support this initiative. If you have any unwanted devices - laptops, tablets, desktop computers, Chromebooks etc, Wiltshire Digital Drive will refurbish them and distribute them to those in need. The refurbishment includes a safe and secure wiping of the device, giving you the peace of mind to donate with confidence.

Winchester Council News Solar Farms There is a continuing debate on the proposal to locate a Solar Farm, an array of photo-voltaic cells, on 22 hectares (55 acres) of agricultural land at Godsfield, to the north and east of Alresford (see image below). The Three Castles National footpath runs along the northern side of the field. WinAcc have suggested that this will meet 1% of the electricity for the district. WCC has declared a climate emergency and this forms a priority for all our policies. We are aiming for the district to be carbon neutral by 2030. It is very clear that climate change is not a ‘Chinese hoax’, so we have to find sources of renewable energy. The idea is frequently put forward that the solar farms should go on ‘brownfield’ sites, unfortunately such sites are few in number and small, apart from being in demand for housing. If we are to develop clean energy, we need to set guidelines that give developers of such farms parameters as to what is acceptable, ‘not in my backyard’ is inadequate. The demand for electricity is calculated to double before 2050, as the gas central heating and petrol-powered vehicles are phased out. If the country is

Godolphin is now an official drop-off location and will be able to accept your donations at the Main School Reception on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10.30am and 11.30 am. Head of Community Engagement at Godolphin, Olivia Sparkhall says “We’re so pleased that the Godolphin community will be able to help those in need of a

to be carbon free by 2050, then more solar farms or wind turbines will be needed. Precious as our landscape is, we need to find ways of accommodating this necessary infrastructure. In planning terms, we are required to assess the gains against what is lost. On this site there would be the loss of a footpath where there is no traffic noise, an increasing rarity, and extensive views of chalk downland; destruction of Bronze Age remains; and the industrialisation of the setting of several heritage assets. What mitigation measures could be offered by developers? A properly managed biodiversity plan, to enhance the ecological value with proper and enforced management, with penalties should it not be implemented? A prohibition on the use of weed killer, which pollutes run off ? Any such sites in Winchester need to be an exemplar for well-developed solar farm schemes. Local Plan WCC are developing a new Local Plan. This is called ‘Your Place, Your Plan’ and this is the philosophy behind its development. There is a widespread consultation on Local Plan Strategic Issues and an Options process that will lead to the Local Plan. The planners gave an excellent introduction to

device receive the equipment they need. Everyone deserves to be able to access the online learning that is now being provided for children. This desire to help lies at the very heart of Godolphin’s community engagement values.” #donateyourdigital info@wiltshiredigitaldrive.org www.godolphin.org

the process at a well-attended presentation to parish council members. Please do go to the website and fill in the questionnaire to give us your views. If you go to www.localplan.winchester.gov. uk you can take part-either online at one of the four public sessions or on the website. The response deadline is 12th April 2021. Digital Survey Please help us get a good picture of connectivity in Alresford & the Itchen Valley. This is not an alternative to your Gigabit schemes, which I hope go ahead, but would give us a picture of the current situation for mobile and fixed data communications. We are working on decent data for all, but without understanding the 'not spots', we can't best direct our efforts. You can get to the survey by going to https:// winchester.citizenspace.com/economyand-arts/digital-winchester/. We think that the on-line pattern of working that has been established during the lockdowns is going to be a trend that carries on even after the pandemic is over, so sorting this issue is going to have long-term dividends. Councillor - Margot Power Councillor - Russel Gordon-Smith

All girls 3–18 years Day and Boarding

FRANC

HA LEAL

ETO GE

admissions@godolphin.org www.godolphin.org

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Itchen Valley Forum - Issue 171 March 2021

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