Itchen Valley Forum Issue 173 May

Forum

ISSUE 173 MAY 2021

ITCHEN VALLEY

Life in your Community

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

NEW LEAF ALRESFORD

JUST SAYIN’

LOCAL INFORMATION

Mushroom & Leek Pie

On the verge of change in Alresford

Written by Lucia Foster-Found

Your A to Z of useful local info

STYLE ˙ INTERIORS ˙ HEALTH & BEAUTY ˙ INTERVIEWS ˙ FOOD & DRINK ˙ ENTERTAINMENT ˙ EVENTS STYLE ˙ INTERIORS ˙ HEALTH & BEAUTY ˙ INTERVIEWS ˙ FOOD & DRINK ˙ ENTERTAINMENT ˙ EVENTS Cover Image - Sunshine through my window by Daphne Stephenson - Available to purchase from www.nadiawaterfieldart.com

Your friendly garage with a personal touch Quality Service & Repairs

Your vehicle will be looked after by qualified technicians with many years of experience. Receive a dealership level service at local garage prices.

MOT centre

Receive complete attention to detail and thorough safety checks in our MOT centre.

Child friendly customer waiting area

Stay warm, dry and keep the children entertained in our relaxing waiting area. Coffee and tea making facilities available and clean toilets with child changing area.

Free local collection & delivery service

Don’t fret about getting the car to us if things go wrong. Just give us a call and let us make the arrangements for your car repair stress free. (vehicle recovery is chargeable unless covered by your insurance policy).

While you wait service

We are more than happy to have you wait for your car. Take advantage of our warm, dry and clean customer waiting area.

Tyres & Exhausts

Extremely competitive prices on all exhausts. Tyres supplied direct from the leading suppliers. Order Online. Why travel and join a queue when you can simply pay us a visit. We are also an award winning GT radial dealer.

Free courtesy car (by appointment)

Don’t let your breakdown or service cause problems. Take full advantage of one of our clean and reliable automatic or manual courtesy cars.

Computer 4-wheel alignment Check

We have recently invested in one of the latest computer Wheel- Alignment systems where we can carry out full alignment checks and adjustments, increasing the life of your tyres and improving your driving experience!

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Call today: 01962 736343 www.phoenixautoservicesltd.co.uk Free local collection and delivery service

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ITCHEN VALLEY FORUM MAY 2021

CONTENTS 04 Feature

New Leaf Alresford On the verge of change in Alresford

40 Feature

04

41 Motoring

06 Property Management

Buying, selling, letting?

Find local estate agents and property management services

Just Sayin’ by Lucia Foster-Found

45 Home

Music, Art, Literature and Dance

13 Garden

Make your garden dream come true

19 Wellbeing

Looking after your health and yourself!

Local services to keep your vehicle running smoothly

44 Feature

10 Culture

New Alresford Town Council News

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

54 Education

10

Find local schools and educational experts

Discover local events and days out in

28 Retail

36

37 Food & Drink

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

Advertising Manager Mandy Head mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk Design Manager James Curtis james@forumpublications.co.uk Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk

Get in Touch Forum Publications Offices Unit 8A, Shelf House, New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QH Tel: 01962 735137 www.forumpublications.co.uk

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

From photographers to solicitors - every professional service you need

Mushroom & Leek Pie

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

www. luciafosterfound.com

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

36 Recipe of the Month

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

Lucia Foster-Found

31 Professional Services

Editor Mark Tubb editor@forumpublications.co.uk

Contributors

24 Lesiure & Entertainment

The Team

20

44

FEATURE

New Leaf Alresford On the Verge of Change in Alresford Alresford has been chosen for an exciting new trial, which will see the number of cuts to our verges reduced in order to boost wildflowers and pollinators.

Biodiversity Action Plan and the Council has set up a steering group that includes ecologists and the contractor Idverde.

Idverde has invested in a machine which will collect the cuttings or ‘arisings’.

Over 97% of all flower rich grassland has been lost in England since the 1930s.

Restoration and conservation is essential to provide habitat for our pollinators, like bees and butterflies, and other wildlife. The UK has 238,000 hectares of verges compared to just 85,000 hectares of surviving speciesrich grassland. Verges are a vital refuge, with more pollinators found on well-managed verges than in the neighbouring countryside.

How you can get involved You can take part in this scheme by adopting a section of verge near you and collecting the ‘arisings’, after each cut. Arisings will be collected by the contractor in some areas.

Clearing cuttings keep nutrient levels low, boosting the number of wildflowers on your verge. Arisings can be left to dry on the verge for 1-7 days, which allows any flower seed to shed, then composted or placed in your brown garden waste bin.

The 2020 ‘lockdown’ saw UK roads fall eerily quiet, partly because drivers stayed at home, but in many areas council mowing also ceased and our verges flourished.

Lockdown demonstrated that many of our verges are flower-rich and harbour the potential to help address the ‘pollinator crisis’.

There are other benefits too. Wildflowers appearing on our waysides and verges are an uplifting sight, contributing significantly to our wellbeing. Overly frequent cutting regimes also drive up the UK’s carbon emissions, with mower engines generating up to ten times the emissions of passenger cars.

About the scheme Winchester City Council manages verges within 30 mile per hour zones. During the trial, the number of cuts will be reduced from nine per year to four. The first cut took place in March with the remaining three scheduled from June. Two verge areas in Alresford will undergo just two cuts this year. Safety margins, ensuring visibility for road users, will be maintained as usual.

Verge management is part of the District’s

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garden by participating in Plantlife’s ‘No Mow May’. Plantlife advises restricting mowing to once every four weeks, and when you mow, leaving some areas for taller plants. The highest production of flowers and nectar sugar has been found on lawns cut no more than every four weeks. Our lawns can support between 400 and 4000 bees per day, depending on how they are managed.

No seeding please Some of us may be tempted to reseed verges to encourage more wildflowers to grow, however, there are some important things you need to know first: 1 Inappropriate planting could damage our verges. Non-native species could affect the delicate balance of the habitat and introduction of invasive or unwelcome species is a risk.

2. Winchester City Council have asked that individuals do not reseed the verges as part of this pilot.

3. Cultivating a verge requires a license from Hampshire County Council, which costs £133 for 5 years.

Many verges have existing wildflowers which will thrive when cutting is reduced and natural self-seeding can occur.

If you live outside Alresford and have identified a local verge that is rich in wildflowers, you can erect signs asking the contractor not to cut it. Remember to remove signs at the end of the flowering season and ideally collect arisings once it has been cut, to boost the number of wildflowers. Wild Valley Verges (Itchen Valley) have some signs available and if you would like one of these please email enquiries@newleafalresford.org You can also help pollinators in your own

Watch this space Keep an eye on our website: www.newleafalresford.org, join our Facebook group New Leaf Alresford and find us on Instagram @newleafalresford for updates on how the trial is progressing.

Please spread the word about this scheme, to help raise awareness around the reasons verges are being left longer locally.

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COMMUNITY / PROPERTY Alresford Businesswoman Wins National Award for Innovation Becki Cassia is among 40 of the UK’s leading female innovators being backed

by Innovate UK to scale up their innovations to help the UK recover from COVID-19 and tackle global challenges such as reaching net zero carbon emissions An Alresford innovator has been backed by Innovate UK’s Women in Innovation awards. The awards recognise women who are pursuing breakthrough new business ideas. As part of a group of 40 of the UK’s most visionary female entrepreneurs to drive forward their novel innovations and business ideas to help the UK build back better from the COVID-19 pandemic and meet its climate change ambitions.

Science Minister Amanda Solloway announced the winners and each will receive a cash injection of £50,000 to scale up and bring to market their disruptive business ideas, many of which have been born out in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The entrepreneur being backed from Alresford, Hampshire is Becki Cassia (39), who has launched ‘transparently.legal’, a family law and client management communications platform. It enables online supervised communication to take place between individuals during the mediation of a relationship breakdown and for independent expert assessment to be made.

Science Minister Amanda Solloway said: “As we build back better, it’s a priority of mine that we continue equipping our brightest female innovators with the tools they need to succeed while encouraging a new generation of women to come forward and pursue their ambitions.

“I’m delighted we are supporting 40 of our most trailblazing female entrepreneurs, helping them to turn their innovative ideas and aspirations into a reality, creating the products and services that will help improve all our lives, while powering up the UK’s economic recovery.”

The funding is part of the government’s flagship Women in Innovation Awards, delivered by Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), which seeks to boost the number of UK female entrepreneurs, which could deliver £180 billion to the economy. It forms a key part of the government’s ambitious R&D Roadmap, published in July 2020, which committed to supporting the UK’s innovators and risk-takers by backing entrepreneurs and start-ups with the funding needed to scale up their innovations.

Emily Nott, Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at Innovate UK said: “With 2020 proving to be an incredibly difficult year for everyone, and particularly women, continuing to support female entrepreneurs in 2021 has been a real priority for Innovate UK. We have had an enormous response and we can see some positives from the pandemic, with some of our shortlist inspired to start up a business in response to some of the challenges it has brought. Working alongside the winners, Innovate UK will help them grow further.

We can’t wait to see what else these inspiring women achieve and how they can be an example to inspire the next generation and to encourage more women-led businesses in this country as we rebuild and recover.”

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“In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.”

Job ch.1 v22

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

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

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 are now back open and a hive of activity.

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.

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.

We hope to hear from you soon!

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

PROPERTY The Agency UK - Your Local Trusted Estate Agent

Offering bespoke marketing plans and professional photography with virtual tours, Robin will work closely with you to advertise your property to its full potential.

Robin Watts, local Estate Agent has recently rebranded from Abshot Estates to The Agency UK. The well-respected Hampshire property professional has over 20 years of estate agency experience and as a result has sold some of the finest homes the Hampshire region has to offer.

You can still expect the same high level of service with one point of contact throughout, avoiding issues that can arise through lack of communication between team members. You can also be sure of regular communication, available to you 7 days a week and honest prompt feedback following every viewing.

One of Robins recent clients said: “The whole process was straightforward. He was on hand day and night, seven days a week to get the sale and purchase over the line. He’s motivated but also honest and honourable. I couldn’t recommend him highly enough.

I’ve since recommended him to a neighbour who was unsuccessful in selling their home with a rival agent and was very demotivated and had removed it from the market. Rob sold it within 24 hours.”

Robin limits his number of clients at any one time to ensure he is able to maintain an unrivalled level of customer service during what can be an extremely stressful time.

Robin says: “As a self-employed agent, I’m pleased to have the freedom to provide the time and commitment that my clients deserve and will always strive to get them the best results.”

You can stay in touch with Robin on social media by following @ robinwattsproperty on Facebook and Instagram, alternatively you can email robin.watts@theagencyuk.com or call 01962 587434.

Your local trusted Estate Agent One point of contact, available 7 days a week Regular, honest feedback Bespoke marketing plan including Rightmove, Zoopla & Boomin Sell your home in Alresford with The Agency UK and make it your least stressful yet. Contact me today on 01962 587434 or robin.watts@theagencyuk.com to book your property valuation.

Alresford

8

Robin Watts

"HE’S MOTIVATED BUT ALSO HONEST AND HONOURABLE. I COULDN’T RECOMMEND HIM HIGHLY ENOUGH."

PROPERTY Buying or selling in a dynamic market • Be prepared • Establish an open and honest relationship with an agent you know you can trust Prior to early 2020, the housing market was influenced by various economic and political factors, making it generally consistent during this period but without much impetus.

However, the past year has seen a dramatic change bought about by the reaction to the pandemic. The reaction has been a change in attitude to lifestyle and working regime. Options on work environment combined with a marked emphasis on the benefits of living in a more rural environment has created enhanced buying and selling across the South.

This shift to buying in the country is one that had already started but has been greatly and exceptionally hastened by the pandemic.

Over the past 10 years the South has been an increasingly popular destination for those looking to make the move out of London.

Now the reaction to the events and advice of the past year has ‘opened the floodgates’ and we suspect that the desire to move to the country will continue for the foreseeable future. And so, to buy or sell in such a dynamic environment our main advice is to be prepared and establish an open and honest relationship with an agent you know you can trust. Agents such as The Country House Company, who are long established in the South and used to selling to the

London market, understand exactly what is involved and how to make the move a smooth transaction for vendor and purchaser. If you are looking to put your house on the market then gather together as much information as you can on the house, its workings and history.

Be guided by your agent; transactions will take longer during such a busy time but experienced agents will expertly manage the expectations of both parties and keep everyone informed of the process. Keep communication channels open throughout and react to requests for information as quickly and as comprehensively as possible.

For full advice on buying and selling please contact Kate Porter on 02392 632275 email Katep@countryhousecompany.co.uk

Kate Porter, Head of Sales Tel: 02392 633 026

EQDC

Experts in property Sales I Lettings I Management Across the South

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

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

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CULTURE

Beautiful Art to Brighten up this Spring At last, it’s here, we can all feel it, a much longed-for hint of optimism in the air as the arrival of spring heralds the promise of happier times ahead. So in this spirit of joy and celebration, The Hampshire Spring Show is throwing its doors wide from 24th April to 15th May at The Old Grain Store, Goodworth Clatford, Nr Stockbridge, with a colourful explosion of beautiful artwork, sculptures, ceramics, lamps and rugs to make the heart sing!

Nadia Waterfield Fine Art has long been recognised for exhibiting stimulating, eclectic and well-chosen contemporary art to suit all tastes and pockets. This latest spring exhibition does not disappoint with an exciting injection of new work from young, emerging talent alongside exhibits from our regular artists. Featuring work from over 60 artists across a wide variety of subjects, genres and media, with art sourced from Bangkok to Cornwall, this is the most diverse and thrilling exhibition yet.

Due to the sheer size of this elegant, lightfilled space, the gallery – the largest in Hampshire - has the luxury of showing over

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250 paintings to their best effect in a warm, welcoming and safe environment with social distancing in place. Nadia, an artist herself, handpicks each piece from artists across the country so this is a fantastic opportunity to see some truly unique art.

It’s also a hidden gem in the Hampshire countryside with plenty of parking and wonderful walks.

‘freedom’ than relaxing in a gorgeous artfilled space enjoying a good cup of coffee and some wonderfully uplifting paintings, perhaps even finding something to love to mark the occasion? If you can’t make it to visit us, all the artwork is online.

If you want to see more of Nadia Waterfield Fine Art and are in the area, pop into our Bruton gallery. Enjoying a recent collaboration with popular vintage brand Cabbages and Roses, there’s plenty of great paintings and furniture alongside some pretty floral fabrics. Or make a day of it as Bruton has so much to offer with galleries, restaurants, artisan shops and walks.

What better way to celebrate our newfound

www.nadiawaterfieldfineart.com

W N

NADIA WA T E R F I E L D

THE SPRING

HAMPSHIRE ART SHOW

FIN E

A RT

Stockbridge Hampshire | Bruton Somerset

2 4T H A P R I L – 1 5T H M A Y T H E O L D G R A I N S T O R E , W E S T O V E R FA R M , NR STOCKBRIDGE, HAMPSHIRE SP11 7LF

PA I N T I N G S , C E R A M I C S , SCULPTURE AND FURNITURE The entire exhibition can be viewed online at WWW.NADIAWATERFIELDFINEART.COM MOBILE: 07717 833999

G A L L E RY O P E N I N G T I M E S Saturday 24 th April – 15 th May 1 1 .0 0 A M – 5 .0 0 P M (closed Mondays) Or by appointment All government guidelines will be followed. The safety of our visitors is our utmost priority.

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CULTURE Winchester Poetry Festival Winchester Poetry Festival has just launched a brand-new Crowdfunding campaign to raise funds to establish an inspiring and creative community heritage poet-in-residence: Poet on the High Street. The residency will run for 6 months, starting in June.

ADAM ROUD S TAT I C B E A U T Y

This innovative and engaging programme aims to work with Winchester’s people, businesses, and communities, through a journey of expression, imagination and creativity. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, it will help to reawaken our sense of place, express feelings, memories, and hopes, through people’s own poetry, and that of our poet-in-residence.

Using the power and playfulness of words, be they written, digital or spoken, this programme will help to stimulate community recovery and growth post-Covid 19. It will build community connections, linking people with the heritage that surrounds them, reigniting community optimism, and growing resilience for the future.

Exhibition of sculpture and painting at The Light Room Stephen Boyce, former chair of Winchester Poetry Festival says: “We need your help! We want to use poetry to rejuvenate the city centre and to spread joy, understanding, and a shared love of our city. While we have secured in-principle funding from a range of partners, Winchester Poetry Festival now needs everyone’s help to raise the final sum to enable us to draw down the funding available to us.”

Jane Bryant, incoming chair, says: “Poetry is accessible to everyone. It ignites a creative spark in us all and also helps us with our sense of well-being. We want to excite community and business engagement - poetry by the people for the people. The community heritage poet-in-residence - our Poet on the High Street - will work with schools, young people, and the community at large to inspire creativity, to lift our spirits, and to animate the city centre with poetry throughout the summer. But we need your help to make it happen.”

Full details about Winchester Poetry Festival’s Crowdfunding Campaign which runs until 15th May are available on: https:// www.crowdfunder.co.uk/poetry-on-the-high-street

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• Wednesday May 26th to Saturday 5th June 2021 From 10am - 5pm • We would be delighted to see you there The Light Room, The Old Chapel, The Dean, Alresford, SO23 9BQ www.adamroudsculptor.co.uk

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Impress your friends and create a garden your family can really enjoy. Moss, weeds, bare patches and unhealthy lawns can be improved with professional care & maintenance. This requires the right treatments, at the right time of year, applied in the right conditions. Off-the-shelf lawn care products can be OK, professional grade products provide professional results.

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COMMUNITY

Having seen the proposed WCC - Winchester District High Street Plan 2021-22, we are concerned that there is little or no focus on Market towns. What is in the plan is Winchester City focused. We have written to WCC asking for a separate plan to be put in place that looks at the needs of the market towns. At the latest meeting a Winchester City Cllr confirmed that grants had been focused around Winchester as a priority. We have managed to get as much information out to our Alresford businesses as the information about the grant process has been poorly communicated or not updated.

A further discussion with Taylor Wimpey on the SunHill development plans was also welcomed and a better understanding of timelines was useful. We stressed the need for more affordable office space as well as homes.

We are thrilled to welcome back the businesses to the town and hope they continue to prosper. As always, we will continue to help and assist any business that needs help and support the town to ensure it continues to be a unique and special place to visit.

Chamber Events We recently held a very successful New Business showcase for new businesses set up within the last year to meet & discuss issues and we were able to offer assistance & advice where appropriate.

Three new members have joined us. Please do check out their new enterprises in your local area. It’s great to see some exciting new

Alresford & District Branch Save the Children 50 Years It is 50 years since the Branch was formed. We were looking forward to a party to celebrate 50 years of fundraising, but sadly due to Covid restrictions, we cannot have one. We also would have liked to personally thank all those who have supported us - but again due to restrictions we can’t.

Fundraising has been varied and mostly fun over this time. In 1971, £166 was raised; in 2019 it was £6,000. Then came Covid year 1, and we had to cancel all our fundraising events - no street collection, no fun bingo, no coffee mornings. We did sell Christmas cards and two local schools raised money through Christmas

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Recently, our chair Fiona Isaacs, along with other members, have attended meetings with Winchester City Council, to discuss business issues. The Alresford Chamber of Commerce, is concerned about the CITY focus on grants, plans and discussions.

We strongly believe that Market Towns differ, they do matter and offer something extra. Especially Alresford with our independent shops, fantastic food and cafes but also all our local businesses who are massively supporting the local economy. Not just on the high street, but behind the scenes offering jobs, boosting the local economy and much more.

ALL AREAS COVERED

Alresford Chamber of Commerce Market Towns Matter!

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startups in Alresford • Torchlight Recruitment Solutions - Supporting Permanent/ Contingent and Executive Recruitment demand across multiple client sectors • Saddle House Medi-Spa - Providing a number of advanced face and skin treatments, with a number of specialisations • Intelligent Interpersonal Skills - Helping organisations improve internal and external relationships - developing engaged employees and equity.

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.

Keep track of our events, follow us on Facebook Twitter & Instagram @AlresfordChamberofCommerce / AlresfordCofC / info@alresfordchamber.co.uk /www.alresfordchamber.co.uk Davina – Chamber Secretary

Jumper Day but the grand total for 2020 was just £2,000.

Now we are in Covid year 2, it is unclear what we will be able to do. So far, we have had no bridge afternoon and again the street collection is cancelled and it appears that the Fun Bingo is far from likely to appear in the autumn. Save the Children still have many commitments throughout the world. The ten years of war in Syria plus the pandemic have left over 1,900 children displaced and needing support. In the UK an Emergency Response to Covid was set up with 5,000 grants being made to families and over 35,000 resource packs distributed with advice and guidance for parents and activities for children. Funds are always needed.

It is hoped that once restrictions are removed, our fund-raising can return to normal but this does not look likely until 2022.

If you have supported us in the past at any of our usual events, can you now think about us and if possible donate however small the amount. Please send your contributions to 15 Nursery Road, Alresford, SO24 9JW. Your support in the past has always been much appreciated, please remember us now and thank you.

GARDEN

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GARDEN

Lawn Nutrition Lawns are hungry feeders; let’s take a look at what they need to remain healthy throughout the year Far too few gardeners understand what goes into the perfect lawn.

Most think it is okay to pick up a bag of feed, sprinkle it liberally on the lawn and all will be okay. Your lawn has a complex relationship with nutrition, which changes throughout the growing season and these things need to be taken into consideration if you want a healthy, attractive, disease free lawn.

When it comes to lawn nutrition there are really three main things to think about; fertiliser composition, timing and application methods.

Fertilisation is important as it influences the colour of your lawn, its ability to cope with the stresses of drought, mowing and extremes of temperature and to fight against disease and weed infiltration. Choosing the right fertiliser and applying it correctly really is the key to success.

Chemical and organic fertilisers display the nutrient content by way of three different numbers. These three numbers represent the compounds Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium (or Potash).

Often displayed as N-P-K. The numbers correspond to the percentage of each of these compounds in the fertiliser inside the pack. That’s the easy bit! What each of these compounds does for the plant is probably the most important part.

Nitrogen helps leaf growth. Phosphorus helps the growth of roots and flowers, and Potassium is important for the overall health of the plant.

When to promote leaf or root growth is really the key to successful lawn nutrition. You want healthy leaf growth in the growing season to encourage a stronger grass plant, but you don’t want to go into winter with too much leaf that can be damaged by the bad weather.

Another important factor in selecting the right lawn fertiliser is the type of nitrogen actually in the product. Nitrogen fertiliser may consist of fast-release or controlled-release nitrogen. For lawns, fertilisers containing controlled-release nitrogen sources are best.

Lawn care professionals tend to use coated granular product. The coating is formulated to break down gradually over time, therefore providing a slow release of fertiliser as the plants require it.

So we have covered the composition and also the timing of application. Let’s take a look at application methods.

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Most homeowners who buy their lawn feed from the garden centre will have a choice between granular or liquid feeds. As we mentioned earlier, ideally you want a product that releases its nutrients into your lawn slowly, as required, over time. There are two downsides to liquid feeding. The first is that it is immediate. Your lawn gets an instant food hit then nothing. The other issue is that liquid feeding can be very time consuming and it’s difficult to get the application rates right.

Controlled-release granular feed is by far the best choice when you can guarantee a regular supply of rain. Most gardeners will attempt to apply this themselves and this can create issues.

Application by hand is almost impossible to get right. The granules slip through your fingers easily and distribution is uneven. Apply too much to one area and you scorch the grass, often blackening or killing it in patches. Uneven application results in uneven grass growth.

Ideally use is a broadcast spreader consisting of a hopper holding the fertiliser and releasing a controlled amount onto a rotating disk, powered by the forward movement of the wheels, distributing the granules in a controlled and even manner. The amount of fertiliser released is controlled by adjusting holes in the base. Getting the quantities right is important and you must calibrate the spreader before you use it, based on the flow rate of the fertiliser, the granule size, the application rate required and the size of the hopper holes. It’s important not to miss any of the lawn or to overlap as you make each pass with the spreader.

One final thing to remember is that too much nitrogen causes thatch which starves your lawn of air and water, causing the grass to die. Get it wrong and your lawn really will pay the price.

I’ve tried to make things as simple as possible but lawn nutrition, product selection and application rates can be relatively complicated.

By the time you have bought the product, the right applicator and factored in the time it takes to carry out the work, you can usually save money by asking a lawn care professional to help look after this part of your garden for you. After all, if you want professional results then a professional is usually the person to ask.

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

GARDEN

TDH

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

Hard Landscaping

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

General Maintenance

• 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

Supply and planting large specimen trees and shrubs Espalier, pleached and instant impact hedges All trees and shrubs carefully selected Design, landscaping and ongoing maintenance Free site visit and consultation Bosque is a trading name of Just Limegrass Ltd. Harko: 07710 502798 Tom: 07855 656984 www.bosque international.co.uk

Daren George - your local pest controller from Alresford • 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

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

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COMMUNITY New South Downs podcasts will be inspired by our rivers

Village Agent Worried about memory loss?

Many of us get a little more forgetful as we get older. But, if you are worried about your memory or someone else’s, then there is help available.

Speak to your GP Your doctor will be able to refer someone for assessment, to find out for certain the cause of the problems.

Hampshire’s Dementia Advice Service If you are concerned about your memory, have a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment or dementia, Andover Mind provides a Dementia Advice Service to residents anywhere in Hampshire.

They can be contacted on: 01264 332297 or enquiries@ andovermind.org.uk

Seven writers have been commissioned to pen 10 audio stories and poems, with each author focusing on one of the magical rivers that weave across the South Downs landscape.

The writers will be spending time engaging with the communities that live and work in the landscape to explore the untold stories of everyday people.

Listeners will be able to access these stories through listening apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Overcast and Pockets Casts.

Audiences can plug in and listen while they walk and explore the landscape, or enjoy at their leisure.

The initiative, called Full Harvest, builds on the success of the Writer in Residence project that was delivered in partnership with the National Park Authority in 2019. The outcome was a oneperson play called Cherry Soup that toured to nine venues.

While developing Cherry Soup, writer and director Sara Clifford gathered many stories from people in the community.

Full Harvest looks to tell more of these community stories, encompassing a diverse range of voices to discover what the landscape means to people from many walks of life.

Sara Clifford returns to this project focussing on The River Ouse, which runs to Newhaven and the Adur in West Sussex. Sara said: “Each one of us is focusing on one of the seven rivers that run across the National Park from East to West – its history, geography and stories, and particularly the people that live and work there – to tell new and untold stories of those people and our own responses as artists. These will be recorded as podcasts that can be listened to on-site.’

Anooshka Rawden, Cultural Heritage Lead for the National Park, added: “The rivers of the South Downs are its lifeblood, reflecting both its chalk geology and the complex ecosystems of habitat, animal and plant life that make this place so special. The Full Harvest is a chance to celebrate those rivers through the eyes of contemporary writers, who will draw on history, geography and place to weave new stories.”

The downloadable podcasts will be launched this summer.

For more information see www.applause.org.uk

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Other organisations • The Alzheimer’s Society produces lots of information and advice on memory loss and different types of dementia. Contact their Dementia Connect helpline on 0333 150 3456 or visit their website: www.alzheimers.org.uk •

Dementia UK if you have any questions about dementia or if you need advice and support, you can contact the Dementia UK helpline which is manned by Admiral Nurses on 0800 888 6678 or helpline@dementiauk.org

• Memory cafés and local support groups as Covid restrictions reduce and groups begin to reopen, you can find your local memory café or support group, by using Connect to Support Hampshire’s online Community Directory: www. connecttosupporthampshire.org.uk Call Village Agent Denise on: 07969 376023 - Village Agents are volunteers who can help you find information and local services that will enable you to stay living safely and independently.

Winchester Go LD Garden and Craft Fair

The Winchester GoLD Garden and Craft Fair will take place on Wednesday 23rd June 2021 10am to 4pm at Upper Farm, Down Farm Lane, Headbourne Worthy SO23 7LA. Entrance to the Fair will be £5 and there will be parking available on site. Hillier’s, Bob McQueen, horticulturalist and tree expert (30+ RHS Chelsea Flower Shows), will be giving short talks at 10.30, 11.30, 13.30 and 14.30 with questions and answers.

Creative Flora expert florist Louise Bradshaw will be offering two seasonal flower workshop demonstrations at 11am and 2pm.

Workshop tickets are £20 and will be available in advance, numbers are limited. Tickets include one workshop, entrance and lunch in the Go LD Café Marquee.

If you are interested please contact Ros Francis on 07868 132250 or ros.francis@hotmail.co.uk Stalls for 2021 include plants, garden products, local crafts, homeware, produce and gifts.

“When the COVID lockdown was announced, we were very fortunate to be offered the chance to continue major cancer surgery as we are closely linked with the Southampton University Hospital Trust. We had many admissions during the last lockdown and this lockdown, we have all gained experience, and I have felt very honoured to provide care to Hampshire and parts of Dorset.

Celebrating 50 years in Nursing This month one of Spire Southampton’s experts is celebrating 50 years as a registered nurse.

Lin started Nursing in 1971 at Lord Mayor Treloar Hospital in Alton. Now closed The Lord Mayor Treloar Hospital in Chawton Park Road, Alton, was threatened with closure in the 1970s, but survived to serve the community until 1994.

Recently interviewed for a “Care Heroes” segment Spire Southampton’s Surgical Sister has been at the forefront of patient care at Southampton since 2004.

“When I put on my uniform and was introduced to the ward I would work on I realised that Nursing was the career for me and it has never ceased to provide me with new experiences every day. When I first started, nursing student nurses were seen but not heard and even as a junior Registered Nurse, the Ward Sister was approached only through a senior nurse.

Matrons were very much in attendance and would wander the wards trying to catch staff out by questioning them about their patients.”

A year ago, Spire Southampton committed to support to the NHS in tackling the pandemic and put its colleagues, facilities, services and equipment at the disposal of the University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust.

Since then, it has provided urgent care for cancer and critically ill patients. Supporting the Chemotherapy and Haematology Service as well utilising Spire Southampton’s critical care facility for critically ill cancer, cardiac and thoracic patients.

Most of these patients visit received care on the surgical ward under Lin’s leadership.

As a team, we have welcomed the challenge to be able to provide this type of care and I am sure Spire Healthcare are proud of the whole team at Spire Southampton for stepping up to the challenge.”

“We were able to reduce the length of stay for major urinary surgeries; we have received positive feedback from the Trust. All our staff are aiming to motivate our patients from operation day to help them recover safely which enables us to reduce the patient’s length of stay.

We have also had to provide other holistic support to our patients as no visitors were allowed. The staff have almost become surrogate families to the patient in for long spells and that was special to see.”

Spire Southampton is now fully open again to private patients, who are either self-paying or insured. It will also continue to provide care for NHS patients and help reduce waiting times and the size of the overall waiting list.

Thankfully, Lin will remain a big part of Southampton’s future “I have no plans for retirement yet but who knows what the future may hold. I now have a wonderful team of Nurses who support me as much as I support them.

My Consultants have developed a mutual trust with the team and me; this helps us provide a level of care that helps the patients recover in a comfortable environment.

It takes time to create but it is a rewarding place to be.”

Spire Healthcare is a leading independent hospital group in the United Kingdom, with 39 private hospitals and eight clinics across England, Wales and Scotland.

Working in partnership with around 7,500 experienced consultants, Spire Healthcare delivered tailored, personalised care to almost 750,000 in-patients, outpatients and daycase patients in 2020, and is the leading private provider, by volume, of knee and hip operations in the United Kingdom.

The Group’s well located and scalable hospitals have delivered successful and award-winning clinical outcomes, positioning the Group well with patients, consultants, the NHS, GPs and Private Medical Insurance (“PMI”) providers. 90% of Spire Healthcare’s hospitals are rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC (or the equivalent in Scotland and Wales).

In recent months, the Group has placed its facilities at the disposal of the NHS to support efforts to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

To learn more, visit www.spiresouthampton.com For further information contact 023 8077 5544

Spire Southampton Hospital, Chalybeate Close, Southampton, SO16 6UY

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WELLBEING

Station Mill First Class Health & Fitness destination in Alresford

in the gym using resistance equipment. She is keen to point you to key pieces of apparatus in the gym, especially the Kinesis Machine.

A rare piece of private equipment, it allows for over 200 different exercises and is designed entirely around human movement some of its key benefits being in torso rotations for both golf and tennis players.

Your onboarding is a process fundamental to your membership at Station Mill. On sign up you are given a dedicated hour with one of the coaches and taken through each piece of equipment to create a bespoke training plan. This training schedule is held on a cloud with the mywellness app and can be accessed any time you work out, through your phone or member wristband. Using it regularly enables you to track your progress.

P

ositioned next to the heritage Watercress Railway Line in Alresford the new owners of the 1860 Mill have restored, repurposed and redesigned this Grade II listed building.

Spread over four floors; Station Mill Health & Fitness houses a state-of-the-art Gym, two dedicated studio floors for Pilates, Barre and Yoga and a Performance SkillBike Studio; the first of its kind in England.

As an experienced PT and Club Director, Scott understood that people wanted a training facility where they could train in an environment that enabled the highly attentive personal service that they deserve. Design, comfort and exclusivity combined with a strong belief in development, progression and real time results are the drivers for Station Mill.

Station Mill Health & Fitness is also a wellness centre. They are proud of the exquisitely designed Barre & Pilates Studio and a showpiece third floor yoga loft. Sandwiched between these spaces is a whole floor dedicated to wellness, with a range of complementary and mainstream medical practitioners who can all be found on the Station Mill website.

Station Mill re-opened its doors to existing and new gym members on 12th April and the new and exciting timetable for their studio classes, including Performance Cycling will be announced at the beginning of May. Classes re-start on 17th May and to celebrate the reopening of the studios they are offering a free trial timetable for you to try out some of their in-person classes.

Scott wanted to ensure the gym was fitted with the best equipment full of advanced technology, driving real-time, data-driven results, and so Technogym was the obvious partner. The gym was so enthusiastically brought to life to create a partnership with them which led to the development of the first SkillBike studio in England.

The Performance classes are intent on bringing the outdoors, in. A real gear shift and an ability to adapt to an individual’s power outputs meaning that these bikes are the new gold standard in performance cycling. Whether you are a cyclist or not, the cycling classes are great fun and so popular that in between lockdowns the classes were heavily attended.

The team at Station Mill endeavour to create a workout space that is as good as it looks. A huge emphasis has been put on building a strong team of coaching staff and studio teachers to provide specialist advice and provision.

Station Mill’s Candice Kynoch is an incredibly experienced personable coach and trainer. She drives the desire to get women

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Please visit their website www.stationmill.co.uk give them a call or visit them in Alresford.

Station Mill, Station Road, Alresford, SO24 9JQ

COMMUNITY Alresford Surgery News May Bank holiday closures 3rd and 31st May The surgery will be closed for the bank holiday weekend from 6.30pm Friday 30th April until 8am on Tuesday 4th May then again from 6.30pm Friday 28th May until 8am on Tuesday 1st June. eConsult: Any eConsult request you submit outside of our normal surgery opening hours will not be read until we open the next working day.

Whilst you are still able to submit an online consultation during the bank holiday periods, after the surgery has closed, this will not be seen until the day after the bank holiday, when the surgery reopens.

All the other eConsult advice services will still be accessible 24/7.

NHS 111 can help if you have an urgent medical problem when your GP practice is closed. Dial 111 on any phone for advice, or visit the NHS 111 website – 111.nhs.uk. Remember to call 999 at any time in a medical emergency. This is when someone is seriously ill, or injured, and their life is at risk.

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

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

For more information

01962 735137

stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

COVID-19 Vaccine update Nearly 29 million people in the UK have now received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and the latest data report shows that as of 25 March nearly 27 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been given in England.

There will be a reduction of supply of COVID-19 vaccinations due to reductions in national inbound vaccines supply. We are told that this should not impact the delivery of second doses. Vaccinations sites are still encouraged to continue their efforts in maximising uptake in cohorts 1- 9 which are yet to be vaccinated and second doses. We are still waiting on a statement from JCVI on details relating to the next phase of vaccination for groups 10-12. We are reliant on this advice and supply of vaccine, please do not contact us querying when your vaccination is due. We have now invited or vaccinated everybody eligible in cohort 1-9 for their first dose.

If you fall into one of these cohorts & have not been vaccinated, please contact us to get booked in.

Second Doses We are inviting patients for their second vaccine based on when they had their first vaccine. As always, please do NOT call the practice to query when your vaccination will be. We will invite patients as soon as we are able to but due to vaccine supply this may be at short notice. We have been assured vaccines have been reserved for second doses within the 12 week period; however we have been informed it will not be before a 10 week gap.

ELIZA WALKER Barber

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/priority-groupsfor-phase-2-of-the-coronavirus-covid-19-vaccination-programmeadvice-from-the-jcvi/jcvi-interim-statement-on-phase-2-of-thecovid-19-vaccination-programme?fbclid=IwAR3kXwlJsT0wZdgg 0jt3W3F3Krsyjn5Y4zsAX2X2-wY5BJ_h5TA2wgx5XyE For information on the cohorts please click here; https://www.gov. uk/government/publications/covid-19-vaccination-care-homeand-healthcare-settings-posters/covid-19-vaccination-first-phasepriority-groups Thank you for your understanding at this unprecedented time.

Please continue to stay safe.

GP Partners of Alresford Surgery Telephone: 01962 732345 Website: www.alresfordsurgery.co.uk

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

07733 016138 @ecw_barber elizawalker@hotmail.co.uk

WELLBEING

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:

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

ONLINE CLASSES & STUDIO SESSIONS

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LEISURE improves with practice and tuition. Soon you will be out there, on the greensward, with only one concentrated thought in mind, all other worries put aside, can you reach and touch that distant jack?

May, charming May!

When, with a slight relaxation of the Cocid19 restrictions, we are at last able to venture onto the bowling Green For those of you who are new to, or considering joining, the bowling fraternity, as friendly a bunch of locals as you are ever likely to meet, there is the promise of joy and victories to come, as your game steadily

However, to achieve your goal you will need to practice, and from 17th April until 17 of May we will be allowing club members, and you when you join us, to play practice games. During this period Covid 19 rules and restrictions limit us to 6 persons on site at any one time. You will need to book beforehand via our website, or by email to our Captain, who for newcomers will arrange a playing partner, and play will be in 1 hour sessions, with ½ hour gaps to permit socially distant arrival and departure.

We are hopeful that these restrictions will be lifted as the season progresses, so that at

last you will be able to enjoy a full afternoon of play, pitting your wits against those of opposing teams, and glorying in that brief ripple of applause as your efforts dislodge the opponent’s wood and you win the end!

As the sun sets, and you enjoy those much anticipated refreshments, you can look back on an afternoon well spent, with pleasant company, sun tanned and exercised, and rejoice that you were lucky enough to join this wonderful bowling club – happy days indeed!

To take the first steps to happiness, contact the Secretary, details shown in our advert below.

Contact secretary Barry Morgan on 01962 733477, or alresfordbowls@gmail.com, and start your next adventure!

Alresford Bowling Club

We are a friendly bowling club, situated in Sun Lane, close to the centre of Alresford.

During the bowling season (roughly mid-April to September) we play many friendly matches against local clubs, have a number of internal competitions and knock-out tournaments, and regular roll-up sessions.

Roll-ups are opportunities to meet, play and socialise with other members, and take place on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 10.00am to 12.00 noon, and Thursday evenings 6.00pm to 8.00pm (with a social element).

Visitors are welcome at roll-ups, and at other times when accompanied by a Member. 2021 is a good year to join the Club, as we have a one-year-only half-price membership offer of £40 for Playing members (£10 for Social Members).

Lawn bowls is a great game, not just for the retired but for adults of all ages; and we can provide bowls for you to have a go. Further information from Barry Morgan (Club Secretary) 01962 733477; and on the club website.

www.alresfordbowlingclub.org.uk 24

LEISURE Hampshire Country & Garden Festival is Back!

speakers on topics as diverse as ‘Producing Food with Nature’, ‘The Well Gardened Mind’ and ‘Running Free, Swimming Wild.’

Live music from local band ‘Head North’ will create a wonderful atmosphere as you sample Hampshire’s finest food and drink and let your younger family members try circus skills, enjoy storytelling or cuddle animal rescue rabbits - just a few of the many children’s activities available.

For keen gardeners, there are opportunities to browse the beautiful plant nurseries, drop in at the Garden Clinic hosted by local gardening experts and ask the expert ‘Gardeners Question Time’ panel all your gardening queries. For shoppers, there will be a wide range of stalls from local businesses selling arts and gifts, food and drink. Last but not least, enter your canine friends in our very own Family Fun Dog show!

The annual Hampshire Country & Garden Festival is back for 2021 in the beautiful, private gardens of Bere Mill in Whitchurch. The festival launches on Saturday 26th June with a special evening of sparkling wine, cocktails and canapés followed by a luxury picnic hamper supper, a silent auction and a fast auction finale hosted by rugby sports presenter Mark Durden-Smith. Dust off your dancing shoes ready to party the rest of the night away courtesy of Afterdark Entertainment.

On Sunday 27th June the festival opens at 9.30am and offers a fabulous day out for all the family. Be inspired by expert guest

The weekend is in support of The Hampshire Medical Fund, a charity buying pioneering medical equipment for Basingstoke, Andover and Winchester NHS hospitals. The focus this year is to purchase new and vital Resuscitaire machines for the neonatal departments.

With thanks to our gold sponsor, JM Finn Wealth Management and our silver sponsors, Fowlers Architecture and Planning and NFU Mutual North Hampshire.

To book tickets: www.hampshiregardenfestival.co.uk Thank you for your understanding at this unprecedented time.

Please continue to stay safe.

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COMMUNITY

Welcome to Marwell Resort Welcome to Marwell Resort set within 65 acres of the beautiful south downs national park, just 5 miles from the historic town of Winchester. Established in 1982, Marwell resort retains its original friendly character even though it has grown into one of the most prestigious holiday parks on the south coast.

We are one of the south coast’s leading outdoor activity centres offering activities in a challenging but safe environment for children and adults all year round from Treetop Adventure up in the trees for all the family to quad biking for the kids. We have an indoor children’s soft play facility, an on-site bistro, 18 hole mini golf as well as an on-site gym.

With a variety of accommodation on offer from luxury lodges to lake-side camping, we are perfectly located for your family break. Combine this with our huge selection of on-site entertainment and adventurous activities for children and big kids alike, we really are the ideal resort for you to create those treasured memories. So what are

you waiting for? Book now to start your adventure.

In addition to Marwell Resort’s plethora of on-site facilities and activities, our South Downs location adds a little bit more magic, with its countless winding footpaths leading to one stunning vista after another.

NEW South Downs Way Adventure Golf Brand new for 2021 We are super excited to announce that we have a brand new attraction in store for 2021. This May, come and discover South Downs Way Adventure Golf at Marwell Resort. Our 18-hole mini-adventure is the perfect day out for all of the family. Have fun, learn as you play and enjoy some friendly competition with family and friends.

The Course Celebrating the best of what the South Downs has to offer, our Adventure Golf course is themed around our favourite local attractions, monuments and landmarks in the area.

tel: 01962 777 547 email: hello@marwellresort.co.uk www.marwellresort.co.uk Hurst Lane, Owslebury, Winchester, SO21 1EZ E facebook.com/Marwellresorthampshire Q @ Marwell_Resort_Hampshire

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LEISURE There’s something different to discover around every corner. Each hole presents a new interactive challenge to test your skills. Players will navigate their way through ancient farmlands, manoeuvre over narrow bridges, weave around towers and even take on a spinning windmill.

As you move around the course, you’ll also find mini activities and obstacles. You may even be able to spot a few familiar faces along the way... There’s something for everyone, and fun to be had by kids and big kids alike!

Our Adventure Golf course has been architecturally designed and expertly crafted by the team at Greenspan.

They have helped us to create a beautifully landscaped course that offers players the best quality, family-friendly playing experience. Come and check it out for yourself this Summer.

Opening Times Summer evenings are for enjoying! That’s why we’ve extended summertime opening hours until 8pm.

22nd May 2021 to 31st Aug 2021 – 8:30am – 8pm 1st Sept 2021 to 30th Sept 2021 – 8:30am – 6pm 1st Oct 2021 – 31st Oct 2021 – 8:30am – 5pm 1st Nov2021 – 28th Feb 2022 – 8:30am – 3pm

NEW for 2021 our Deluxe Safari Tents New for 2021 is our Large Deluxe Safari Tents that can be booked all year round for short breaks, 3 or 4 nights or a longer stay at 7 nights, arriving on Fridays or Mondays. Our large deluxe safari tents offer a range of the highest standard of self-catering safari tents.

Each tent comes fully equipped with a Fridge, Microwave, Toaster, Kettle, 4 Ring Electric Hob, Sink with Cold Water Tap,

Please note that this is a pay and play facility so waiting times will vary depending on availability. Adverse weather conditions may affect opening times. The last entry is 1 hour before closing. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook to get the latest Adventure Golf updates.

Pay and Play There’s no need to book! Simply turn up, pay and play!

Balls and putters are included in the pricing.

Adult: £9.75 / Child under 12: £7.50 / Family*: £29.00 Adult Group**: £35.00 / School groups: £6.50 *Two adults and two children or one adult and three children **Four adults

Kitchen Utensils, Cutlery and Crockery. A dining table and chairs along with a sofa and electric cast iron log burner can be found in the lounge area. Our tents will also have Electric lighting and sockets for your convenience. The toilet/shower block is a short walk away from the tents within the Safari Village along with a hot water tap and washing up facilities.

The bedrooms are made up on arrival and comprise of one double bedroom with a king size bed and wardrobe, 1 x twin room (bunk beds) and 1 x double cabin bed for the children, sleeping up to 6 across the 3 bedrooms. All safari tents have a large wooden decking area with outside seating and gas BBQ, picnic table and fire pit. All bed linen and towels are supplied during your stay.

27

RETAIL

D.Barker & Son Sterling Silver bracelet by Ti Sento Milano - £229 40A West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732200 | www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

Ragamuffin The Garden Bugs Cardigan by Frugi Organic - £32 from 0-12 months. 2 Bakehouse Yard, New Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 734488 | www.ragamuffin-uk.com

on your highstreet #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinesses 'A splash of colour'- enticing and eclectic items

Fowler & Smith Find this and other beautiful pieces at our new broadstreet shop and restaurant 32 Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 734778 | www.fowlerandsmith.co.uk

now available on your highstreet. Stay local and support your diverse retailers!

Interior Style Small Hand Blown white and black bottle - £40.00

Alresford Beauty 4 throws in a basket, ideal for outdoor socialising - £79 24A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk

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29 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 736311 | www.interiorstyle.biz

RETAIL Alresford Pet Company Fish 4 Dogs - Perfect Protein from the sea™ Available from Pup to Senior - 4 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732507 | www.design-realities.co.uk

Andrew Smith & Son Classic & Contemporary Interiors Sale Wed 26th and 27th May and Monthly Antiques and Interiors Sale 15th May Tel: 01962 735988 | www.andrewsmithandson.com

Alresford Beauty Shoulder and Shopping Bags with zip top - £12.95 24A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk

on your highstreet #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinesses 'A splash of colour'- enticing and eclectic items now available on your highstreet. Stay local and support your diverse retailers!

The Alresford Gift Shop Spring Millefiori necklace made in Wales - £25.50 10 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT Tel: 01962 732192 | alresfordgiftshop.co.uk

House of Gallet Designer Wear (new & pre-used) - Open Tue Sat 9.30am - 4.30pm - 19 Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 735362 | www.houseofgallet.co.uk

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COMMUNITY / RETAIL Dramatic reduction in light pollution in Hampshire during lockdown, nationwide Star Count reveals

Oakleaf Stationery Ltd

Dramatic reduction in light pollution in Hampshire during lockdown, nationwide Star Count reveals

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.

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SERVICES WE OFFER...

Light pollution levels were much lower at the start of 2021 compared to previous year, finds CPRE, the countryside charity Launched to mark International Dark Skies Week, CPRE’s annual Star Count shows a 14% drop in severe light pollution in Hampshire compared to 2020 (nationally, the figure is 10%), and the largest percentage of truly dark skies since 2013 In Hampshire, 374 star counts were made – a big increase of 280 on last year

A nationwide Star Count conducted in February has revealed a significant drop in light pollution levels across Hampshire and the UK. The annual citizen science project asks people to count the number of stars they see in the Orion constellation.

Nearly 8,000 counts were submitted between 6 and 14 February 2021 (5% of which were in Hampshire), with 51% of people noting ten or fewer stars, indicating severe light pollution. In Hampshire, 47% of star gazers counted ten or less stars. This compares to 61% in Hampshire and nationally during the same period last year. 30 or more stars indicates truly dark skies and were seen by 5% of participants - the highest figure since 2013. In Hampshire, 4% of those taking part enjoyed the sight of truly dark skies – up from 2% last year.

Lockdown is the most likely reason for this change, with reduced human activity resulting in quieter than usual urban areas. Similar patterns have been found with air pollution, which has also dropped across the country. CPRE’s interactive map shows the full set of results of the nation’s star counts.

The results have been launched to mark International Dark Skies Week, run by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDSA), which raises awareness on the impacts of light pollution. Light pollution can negatively affect human health and wildlife by disturbing animals’ natural cycles and behaviours. Badly designed, wasteful light also contributes to climate change and obscures our connection to the universe.

Therefore, CPRE and IDSA want to combat light pollution through strong local and national policies, while also protecting and enhancing existing dark skies. This involves putting the right light in the right places, such as LED lights that only illuminate where we walk and turning off lights in places like office buildings when they’re unoccupied.

CPRE and IDSA hope this fall in people experiencing the most severe light pollution - an unintended but positive consequence of lockdown - continues long after coronavirus restrictions are lifted so more people can experience the wonder of a truly dark sky.

For more information visit: www.cpre.org.uk

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Photocopying Laminating Document Binding Scan to Email Personalised Printing Agent Transfer to DVD Agent

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

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

Citizens Advice Winchester District Lesley Rose, Advice Services Manager for Citizens Advice Winchester District gives advice on how best to deal with your energy supply issues.

My energy bill really shot up last month. I don’t feel like I’ve been using any more heating or electricity than usual, so I’m worried I’m being overcharged.

I’ve tried to contact my energy supplier for support, but no one ever answers the phone. I’ve waited on hold for nearly an hour several times before giving up. What should I do?

It’s normal for your energy bills to change depending on the time of year and how much gas and electricity you’re using. But if your bills seem strangely high, then it’s important to investigate why.

Firstly, check your meter is working properly and your usage has definitely not gone up, even accidentally. Also, check what heaters you have and whether you’re using them correctly. Night storage radiators and immersion heaters in particular can cause very high bills if used incorrectly.

Secondly, check to see if your bill is an estimate. If it is, you need to give your supplier a new meter reading. If it’s not an estimate, check your last meter reading to see if it matches the one on your bill. If you still don’t have an answer, then check to see if your supplier has raised their prices.

Customer service varies between suppliers and unfortunately we hear of many bad experiences similar to yours. We also know the problem has worsened during the pandemic. If you’re struggling to get through to them, you could make a formal complaint. There is advice on how to do this on the Citizens Advice website. Citizens Advice also publish a comparison table every three months which rates suppliers’ customer service, based on things like telephone wait time, email response time and the accuracy of their bills. Have a look for yours to see how they fare against others. If they’re low on the list, consider switching to a different one.

For more information about an energy related issues visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/energy/energy-supply

RETAIL / PROFESSIONAL

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th April proactive advice please thcontact: Re-Opening 12 th Re-Opening 12 April Re-Opening Butler & Co, Bennett House, The12 Dean, April West Street,Alresford, Alresford, Hants 40a40a West Street, Hants Tel: 01962Alresford, 732200 Tel: 01962 732200 40a West Street, Hants www.dbarkerandson.co.uk www.dbarkerandson.co.uk Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9BH T: 01962 735544 E: julie@butler-co.co.uk www.butler-co.co.uk

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COMMUNITY A few words of thanks...

As I stand down as a Winchester City Councillor in May, I wanted to thank all those who have voted for me.

To have people put their faith in you with their vote is a privilege. It’s about listening to what the individuals in your community need and seeking support for them. When I was elected in May 2016, I had no idea I would

lead the project to build the fabulous new Winchester Sport & Leisure Centre, have the Portfolio for Health & Wellbeing, join the Hampshire Police & Crime Panel and Hampshire Health & Wellbeing Board, and also be part of the amazing Citizens Advice Bureau.

The most important part of my role, however, was being taken into Ward residents lives, listening to their difficult situations and finding them help. To everyone who elected me to do these things, I am hugely grateful. I always believed I was elected to help anyone who came to me for assistance. Fiona Isaacs, the Chair of the Alresford Chamber of Commerce, is

But does that mean I waste lots of food?

No, I don’t. What it does mean, is that for a couple of days before I do my big shop, I simply eat what I have in the fridge and freezer, like a supper meze. Yes, I sometimes have weird combinations or end up eating variations of chilli for 3 days (because I also forgot to freeze it in smaller portions) but that works for me. Meal planning isn’t the only way to reduce food waste.

So, now I’ve made my confession, why am I still so passionate that food waste is taken seriously when it comes to climate change?

Food production, when you consider farming, transport, processing etc, equates to 26% of all CO2 (equivalent) emissions and uses 50% of the world habitable land (source: https://ourworldindata.org/ environmental-impacts-of-food) yet almost 30% of food produced is not eaten. There are a variety of reasons why this food is not

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When you choose who to vote for, it should not be about the politics but the individual who you believe demonstrates they are someone who gives of themselves to make a difference. Fiona has been exceptional in doing this. “

thought I was a time effective cook (aka lazy).

Confessions of a food waste campaigner Reflecting on a week long campaign as part of the inaugural #FoodWasteActionWeek at the beginning of March, I am amazed at how easy it should be to reduce food waste, especially in the home. It sounds simple enough – measure portions, freeze leftovers/ batch cook and the most obvious is to plan your meals so you only buy what you need.

This is the advice that I heartily promoted as part of Incredible Edible Winchester’s campaign. So, I am really embarrassed to have to confess that I am the worst when it comes to meal planning, and I rarely take a shopping list when I go shopping.

standing in my place at the May 6 election.

I wish her the absolute best and hope you will vote for her. Without Fiona’s fierce determination, there is no doubt we would have lost businesses here – she has supported businesses who are not part of the Chamber because it matters, they were in a very difficult situation and she helped. She helped because it mattered to them.

eaten, but I am going to focus on the bit that we can all change; food waste from the home. The average UK family throws away £60 of edible food a month (Source: WRAP - Food-surplus-and-waste-in-theUK key-facts-Jan-2020.pdf ) and on a worldwide scale food waste equates to the same amount of emissions as 3 times that of aviation emissions.

Most of you reading this blog are thinking, well I’m really careful, I don’t throw away that much food. So, I challenge you to really look at what you do throw away. And do you throw it in the black bin, or are you able to compost it? Could some of the things you throw away, actually be eaten?

Do you “complEAT”? Do you peel veg, or do you just give it a good wash, and eat the skin? Think of all the time you’d save and all that extra fibre you’d consume if you didn’t peel potatoes, carrots and parsnips, or saved those broccoli stalks for soup. I’d never heard of “complEAT” before the #LoveFoodHateWaste campaign; I just

Now I’m on my soapbox, we need to change how we talk about food waste; we need to separate edible food from non-edible food.

Non-edible food is those bits that we truly can’t eat, and we should look at effective ways to compost this (maybe for a later blog), but edible food should never be called food waste. If we could reduce edible food waste, the United Nation estimates there would be enough food for 2 million people (source: http://www.fao.org/home/en). We all sometimes buy too much, plans change or our garden/allotment produces a glut, I would implore you to consider ways to share that surplus with your friends, neighbours or community food hubs. Incredible Edible Winchester is helping promote food sharing apps such as OLIO, neighbourly or TooGoodtoGo, for people to share surplus food, and the Winchester Food Partnership has created a #shareoursurplus directory.

Some of you may say that sharing a few surplus apples from your tree isn’t going to fix climate change, and I’m not saying it will. But, changing the way we think will. Food is relatively inexpensive, and we can sometimes forget that sometimes wasting the cheapest things has the biggest environmental impact. Rethinking food, and its value will contribute to larger behavioural change and will help people take more difficult decisions e.g reducing the amount of meat and dairy, that does have a significant impact on climate change, but I’ll leave sustainable food choices for another day.

Sam Watts, Chair of WinACC’s Food Action Group

PROFESSIONAL

OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY IN LINE WITH COVID19 GUIDELINES WE ALSO OFFER PHONE & VIDEO APPOINTMENTS

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

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

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Forum_180x126mm.indd 1

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PROFESSIONAL

Alresford Financial at times, GDP at levels not seen so low since the last world war!! Trying to navigate these unusual times and make sense of what to do is no laughing matter.

Well, what a strange 12 months this has been!

Stock markets around the world are at an all-time high, our housing market is booming, we have mass unemployment and

We have been helping clients make the best of the volatile markets with pension and investment planning utilising the cutting-edge technology and whole market approach we have at Alresford Financial.

Helping clients understand how volatile some investments can be and finding investment from low to high risk which matches the client expectations is key to success. The general consensus is a good economic recovery now we have the vaccines but expect bumps along the way.

A number of clients took advantage of equity release to help their family through the pandemic and the financial crisis.

With house prices at an all-time high and interest rates at their lowest, the benefits of releasing equity for many out-weighed

the disadvantages: allowing for early inheritances and to actually see the benefits it gives.

We have a free impartial fact sheet on how equity release works, just contact us for a copy.

Alresford Financial have also helped many clients move home or buy their first property. Working as Independent Financial Advisors we have the whole market to choose from and successfully helped a number of new and old clients.

All our initial appointments are free and without obligation, if you would like more info, please do get in touch.

FR

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“I am so pleased Mike has established an office in Alresford. I trust him implicitly and know his family & professional values will add much to the town’s financial & community health. You definitely feel that Mike is working on your behalf and his natural communication gives you the confidence we all need when making big financial decisions.”

Taken from a client Google review

Alresford Financial, 3 East Street, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9EE

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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 • 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.

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Direct Cremation: £1275 inclusive Bespoke Cremations from £2195 inclusive Traditional Burial from £2395 plus Cemetery fees

C O N TAC T U S 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 Also located in Eastleigh & New Milton

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RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Mushroom & Leek Pie Creamy mushrooms and leeks encased in a crispy, golden pie crust. Delicious, filling and a great choice to serve to both vegans and meat-eaters!

SERVES: 4 TIME: 45 MINUTES

Ingredients • • • • • •

1 tbsp olive oil 2 medium leeks, trimmed and sliced into discs 3 cloves garlic, minced 500 g button mushrooms 1 tsp dried mixed herbs A pinch of salt and pepper

For the sauce: • • • • • • •

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1 tbsp butter (dairy-free if vegan) Salt and pepper to taste Cream or soy yoghurt, to serve (dairy-free if vegan) 2 tbsp plain flour 350 ml milk (dairy-free if vegan) 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg A pinch of salt and pepper

• 1 roll vegan puff pastry (or gluten-free, if needed) • 4 tbsp milk, for glazing (dairy-free if vegan)

Method

1. Add the olive oil to a large saucepan on medium heat. Fry the leeks and garlic for 2 minutes, to soften.

2. Add the mushrooms, herbs, salt and pepper and stir for a minute. Place the lid on top and cook for 8 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt the dairy-free butter on medium heat. Add the flour and stir until combined.

Slowly add in the milk, a tablespoon at a time and whisk, until you have a smooth thick mixture. Stir in the nutmeg and season with salt and pepper.

4. Combine the cooked leeks and mushrooms with the sauce and leave to cool completely.

5. Make sure your puff pastry is at room temperature (if using frozen, leave at room temperature overnight) and preheat the oven to 200C. 6. Add the leek and mushroom mixture to a pie dish and top with the puff pastry, cutting off any excess pastry around the edges.

7. Crimp the edges using a fork and score a criss-cross pattern on the top with a sharp knife. Finally, dip a pastry brush in a little dairy-free milk and brush the top of the pie, to help it brown.

8. Cook for 25 minutes until golden brown. Serve straight away.

PROFESSIONAL / FOOD & DRINK

Paget Will Writing Wills Powers of Attorney Advance Descisions Estate Planning Advice Contact Catherine Paget TEP Email: catherine.paget@pagetwillwriting.co.uk Tel: 07786 626979 Web: www.pagetwillwriting.co.uk

Accounts & audit • Business advisory • Tax • Bookkeeping • IT & online accounting • VAT • Buying or selling a business Payroll Accounts & audit • Business advisory ••Tax • Bookkeeping

Accounts & audit • Business advisory • Tax • Bookkeeping • Payroll IT & online accounting • VAT • planning Buying or selling a business • Business start-up • Wealth & protection • IT & online accounting • VAT • Wealth planning & protection • Payroll • Business start-up • Wealth planning & protection Buying or selling a business • Forensic accounting • Business start-up

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 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

Andrew Bevis

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

Mob: 07775 524891 | a.bevis@btinternet.com

Wey Court West, Union Road, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7PT

ONLINE WINE TASTING Summer BBQ Wines - £45

With the hope of spending the brighter summer months outside we have selected a fab handful of wines to enjoy with all kinds of BBQ foods.

Book your place by: Sun 13th June

EVENT DATE: Saturday 19th June 7.30pm BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW VIA: Call: 01962 732002 Email: simon@tngwine.co.uk Online: www.thenakedgrape.co.uk

Very Fine Wines

Our wine prices start at £6 per bo�le, however if you are looking for a bo�le of Fine Wine, we have a staggering range in stock.

Fine Wines are generally wines selling for over £30 per bo�le and that come from some of the finest wine estates in the world.

Be it a fabulous 30 year old red, and wine made with only hand picked grapes, a stunning vintage Port or a special Magnum or even 6 litre bo�le, we have it on sale in our Alresford shop. “ Life’s too short to drink bad wine “

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FOOD & DRINK

T

A L R ESFOR D

he newest instalment to the ‘Party at’ family from Winchester based speciality coffee roasters is The Roasting Party located at the mill in Alresford. The Roasting Party boasts a thriving wholesale business currently in two locations, Party at the pavilion in Sloane Square and Party at Moorgate in the city of London. Both epitomise the values The Roasting Party hold close to their core, incredible more-ish coffee served in an inclusive, fun and relaxed environment, but with a clear focus to deliver the highest quality products they can.

The Roasting Party, like so many roaster stories, started from humble beginnings and has grown organically over the last 20 years through friendship and burst on to the London coffee scene in 2013.

From South and Central America to East Africa and South-East Asia, the Roasting Party work closely with exporters to up the ante on social responsibility. They work hard to establish a supply chain with real longevity in mind through long-lasting relationships.

As a company, their mission is to respect the environment so they have developed packaging solutions that have zero impact on the environment. From biodegradable takeaway cups and lids to supporting the reusable KeepCup. They are committed to the future of the coffee industry and ensuring everyone can enjoy a cup of coffee for many years to come.

Yates (formerly Pulpo Negro, Blackbird and Wild rabbit). Louis shares the same infectious nature and passion for hospitality and high quality products as the Roasting Party. Louis brings another dimension to Party at the Mill different from the other Party at locations with his take on a modern contemporary European breakfast and brunch program that runs 7 days a week from 8 - 3 pm.

The Roasting Party's founders Kirby Sinclair and Wesley Cusick – have decades of experience in the Aussie speciality coffee market after the two forged a bond with The Roasting Party’s spiritual sister and third founding member – Ed Cutcliffe, founder of our much-loved Aussie coffee company The Little Marionette. This well-known Sydney coffee roaster is the place where Kirby and Wesley honed their coffee skills to perfection.

The Roasting Party want everyone to feel part of the ‘party at’ family and this can only be achieved by a fantastic customer experience and by taking everything they do very seriously. They are passionate about hospitality and want this to shine bright.

Party at the Mill’s intention and values will be no different especially with its exciting new partnership with Alresford local chef Louis

As family and inclusion are so important to the mill, they will be serving Sunday lunch from 12- 4 pm. Alongside the takeaway and sit down programs Party at the Mill will be serving everyone’s usual cafe favourites pastries cakes, deli counter salads and its ever popular toasted sandwich range.

Louis has also curated a dinner program on Thur, Fri and Saturday from 6 - 9.30 pm and will be offering traditional Neapolitan style sourdough pizza which will be available takeaway and to sit down.

Party at the Mill are so proud of the products they source and select, so much so that it will be available for retail to be enjoyed at home. Party at the Mill is located next to the watercress train line and is attached to the Station Mill gym. It has a beautiful sun capturing courtyard for 50 or so guests and further 40 seats inside. There are cycle stands and dogs are welcome.

Everything about Party at the Mill is ambitious but they wouldn’t have it any other way!

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S T AT ION M IL L , S T AT ION ROAD, AL RES FORD, S O2 4 9J Q

EQ

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COMMUNITY

New Alresford Town Council judged on our horticulture achievement – including our floral displays - environmental responsibility and community participation. We would be very grateful if local shops and businesses could support our entry by ensuring their frontage is as attractive and well-kept as possible.

Alresford Community Litter Pick, Saturday 22nd May 10-12 Alresford Annual Community Litter pick Please join us to tidy our town and support the national ‘Great British Spring Clean’ on Saturday 22nd May from 10-12. To support social distancing we are happy to provide you with litter pickers, registration and safety advice in advance - please contact us on 01962 732079 or deputyclerk@newalresford-tc. gov.uk and we can deliver these to you.

Alternatively, litter grabbers, gloves and bags will be available from outside Alresford Recreation Centre from 10.00, and you will either be designated a patch to pick, or feel free to litter pick your favourite footpath or street. In accordance with government guidance, please come in groups of no more than 6 people or two households. We will be adhering to Covid 19 social distancing guidance.

A complimentary hot drink from The Arlebury café will

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be available as a thank you for all your hard work. Please refer to our website for further information and updates on the litter pick.

Annual Meeting of the Council The Annual Meeting of the Council will be held virtually on Tuesday 4th May 2021 at 7.30 pm. At this meeting, Councillors will elect the Chair and Vice-chair and appoint committee members for the next municipal year.

Details can be found on our website and the link to join the meeting via teams can be found on the agenda. Do please join us.

Parish in Bloom We have entered the South and South East Parish in Bloom competition which encourages people to take pride in their local environment. We’re hoping that the judging will be in person this year and will take place in either June or July. Alresford will be

Planters in Broad Street In response to comments from residents, we have purchased additional planters to replace the ineffective and unappealing plastic barriers for the pedestrianised area in Broad Street. The new curved designs complement the planters already in place and help to create an attractive and safe area in keeping with the aesthetics of the town. We are unable to remove all the plastic barriers as there needs to be designated entry and exit points for deliveries and the emergency services.

Hanging Baskets This year’s Hanging Basket and Trough Scheme were publicised in January. As in previous year’s, we will continue to pay the watering and maintenance of the floral

displays from their arrival in time for the last May Bank holiday weekend until midOctober. Our thanks to all the householders and businesses who placed orders. We also fund the floral displays on the lamp posts and railings. We feel this scheme contributes to the overall attractiveness of such a historic but vibrant town.

Photo competition Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust are inviting entries for their Tales from the Riverbank photography competition. They would like to see images inspired by the chalk streams that feed the Rivers Test and Itchen and capture the unique qualities of these spaces. The competition has four categories including one for under 18s and closes on 31st August 2021. Please visit their website for further details. www.hiwwt.org. uk/winterbournes/tales/ photography The Duke of Edinburgh We were saddened to hear of the death of the Duke of Edinburgh and our sincere condolences to the Queen and the Royal family. An online book of condolence is available. Please visit www. royal.uk New Alresford Town Council Arlebury Park, The Avenue, New Alresford, SO24 9EP Phone: 01962 732079 www.newalresford-tc.gov.uk

MOTORING

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.

M.O.T Testing Centre • FREE COLLECTION • COURTESY CARS

Class 7 Vans from 3,000 - 3,500kg Class 4 Cars and Vans up to 3,000kg 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

CERTIFICATED ENGINEERS • RECOVERY AVAILABLE •

ALRESFORD MOTOR SERVICES LTD 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

AVAILABLE FOR:

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

PRIVATE HIRE AIRPORT TRANSFERS OTHER JOURNEYS

OR VISIT WWW.PRESTIGECARSALRESFORD.CO.UK

MOT TEST CENTRE FOR: Cars, motorcycles and vans up to 3,000kg.

All makes serviced and repaired.

Class 4 MOT's

Class 1 & 2 Motorcycles

MOT's WHILE YOU WAIT UNIT 5, SHELF HOUSE, NEW FARM ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9QE

Tel: 01962 733888 e:mike1ams1@aol.com

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

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COMMUNITY Alresford Rotary 2021 Build Back Greener During the Pandemic it has been challenging to stick to and develop “Green” practices and intentions while also taking all reasonable steps to keep ourselves and the community safe. At last year’s international assembly it was announced that Rotary’s new focus would be the environment to pay heed to Sir David Attenborough’s alert that “Never before have we had such an awareness of what we are doing to the planet, and never before have we had the power to do something about that. The future of humanity and indeed all life on earth depends on us”.

The global Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group has prepared a policy adopting Rotary International’s Vision Statement that “Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change, across the globe, in our communities and ourselves” and defining Environmentally Sustainability as “the long term maintenance of ecosystems and other environmental systems for the benefit of future generations”.

Wessex Rotary (of which Alresford Rotary is 1 of 76 clubs) is urging all its clubs to adopt an environmental sustainability policy with the following action guidelines: • Avoid single-use plastic e.g. bottles and bags, and coffee cups.

• Reduce energy consumption e.g. gas and electricity. Reduce carbon footprint.

• Minimise waste: “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” or compost.

• Reduce fuel consumption e.g. use a bike, public or shared transport, drive slower.

• Consider Environmental Sustainability in purchasing decisions, e.g. buy local food, recycled toilet paper • Reduce consumption of water and other natural resources • Use renewable energy and rechargeable batteries • Minimise ecological footprint/reduce environmental impact • Reduce pollution and emissions, e.g. from cars, planes, smoking • Travel responsibly: “Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints”.

• Protect and conserve the local environment and biodiversity • Plant trees The above is perhaps “nothing new” but it is a useful checklist of our responsibility to contribute towards building a better sustainable community and world that has a real focus on keeping us all safe after lockdown. It is anticipated that Alresford Rotary will shortly formally adopt the policy set out above reinforcing the commitment it has over the years shown to the environment in the local area.

Thanks to a generous legacy Alresford Rotary will be a major financial contributor to the forthcoming repair and restoration of the river bank and footpath to the east of the Eel House.

Rotary is committed to building a better sustainable world that has a real focus on keeping people safe after lockdown, is mindful of the Climate Emergency, working in collaboration with our communities to take actions and make a difference. Do you want to join or help us? Alresford Rotary is growing! Within the last few weeks, we have recruited three new members who have committed themselves to be part of the world’s largest voluntary service organisation and at the same time helping our aim to lower our age profile! Our recruitment continues. Alresford Rotary wants YOU to join it and/or help in its activities. Please contact rotaryalresford@gmail.com www.alresfordrotary.co.uk James Pinniger

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The trusted private transport service

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

Contact us today and leave the rest to us Tel: 0330 6600 029 Mob: 07801 816 062

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

No r t h Mo to r Company Holden Farm, Cheriton, Alresford, Hants, SO24 ONX

Independent Garage and MOT Testing Centre Established in1999 - All makes of car serviced and repaired - Saab approved repairer and Subaru specialist Free collection, delivery and courtesy car (when available) Competitively priced tyres - Batteries - Vehicle Diagnostics - Exhausts

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

Hampshire Police Bulletin I hope you are all well and enjoying the relaxation of Covid 19 restrictions. I would like to say thank you to everyone who has stopped by to say hello to me it has been nice to welcomed so quickly in to community.

Summer is fast approaching and more people are out and about having picnics and enjoying the weather. I have noticed that litter is not being put in bins especially in Arlerbury Park just a word of warning you can receive a fine if you are found to be littering. There has also been an increase of reports of people calling pretending to be the Bank or HRMC so please be cautious and never give your credit or bank card PIN number out over the phone. This information is never requested legitimately by your bank or the police. Also report any suspicious phone calls to your phone company. Consider registering your number with Telephone Preference Service (TPS Online) or 0845 070 0707.

On a lighter note I would like to inform you of the beat surgery that will be taking place on the 19th May. The beat surgery will take place at the Alresford community centre between 11:00-13:00 and we will be covering safe at home so please feel free to pass by to have a chat with myself.

As always to report a serious or ongoing crime call 999 any nonurgent crimes please call 101 or report it online via the Hampshire police website.

Victor Mills - P.C.S.O.

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FEATURE

Just Sayin’ © LUCIA FOSTER-FOUND 2021

“And four for a boy, five for silver, six for gold! You know what that means, don’t you?” She said as they walked the dogs along a country lane.

Himself cast an eye at the gathering of birds. “A mischief of magpies? I’d guess… songbirds look to your chicks and eggs?”

She frowned. “No! Well, maybe.. But it also means we’re gonna find treasure!”

He cast her a dubious look and called the dogs back to him, just as a cat crossed the lane in front of them.

“See! A black cat has crossed our path too. It’s my lucky day.”

She felt pretty optimistic – life showed hopeful signs of getting back to a recognisable version of normal. And she’d joined a gin club.

Privately thinking that it was rather the cat’s lucky day that the dogs hadn’t seen it, he asked “Really? You feel lucky because you saw a random group of black and white birds and observed a moggy out on its constitutional? You and your quaint superstitions.”

He had a point. During her formative years, her mother, armed with a small arsenal of sayings, would fire off warnings of impending doom. At home, warbling early in the morning would give rise to a stern ‘Sing before breakfast, cry before tea’ leaving her younger self worrying what horrors lay in wait before fish fingers and the Magic Roundabout.

Whistling too - very much frowned upon, because, according to chère maman ‘whistling women and crowing hens ain’t no use to God nor men.’ Ignore the rampant sexism, it forever dashed her schoolgirl hopes of duet-ing with Roger Whittaker.

And the annual ‘Never do washing on New Year’s day; wash one in and wash one away’ meant that, now all grown up and in her own home, dirty clothes would wait until 2nd January.

Wouldn’t want her freshly laundered smalls – no matter how deliciously they may smell of unicorns and cherubs - to cause a random pregnancy or a premature demise.

However, she protested “Oh come on – you’re just as bad. ‘If you wish to live and thrive, let a spider run alive.’ I’ve heard you muttering that one as you carefully liberate our hairy legged friends into the garden.”

Himself shrugged it off with a nonchalant “I read somewhere

44

WWW.LUCIAFOSTERFOUND.COM

that during your lifetime you eat eight spiders in your sleep.

I’m just making amends.”

She wasn’t convinced.

Suddenly he stooped and intoned “See a penny, pick it up and all that day you’ll have good luck – see a penny, let it lie and all good luck will pass you by.’ Only it’s a pound coin and not a penny.” He showed off his find.

“I think it’s the principle that counts. Well spotted. But you should know the last line that few people quote is ‘Give the penny to a friend and your good luck will have no end.’” With a cheeky grin she held out her hand. “So… you need to give the pound coin to me!”

He laughed “You made that up” passing it over, in case she hadn’t..

They ambled along the lane and the May sun shone warmly on their backs. Himself started to take off his jacket.

“Cast nary a clout ‘till May be out!” she barked at him (sounding alarmingly like her mother) before she could stop herself.

“Actually that wind is a bit nippy” he agreed, pulling his coat back on.

It was chilly, but nothing like the arctic weather last month that had accompanied another of her mother’s favourites, ‘Blackthorn Winter’. Dear old Mum had been spookily spot on. When the sloe was in full flower and the hedgerows frothy white with tiny blossoms, it had definitely been ‘so long Spring - welcome back Winter’.

Upon returning home after their dog walk, she mumbled something about ‘back in a bit’ and disappeared. His turn to make lunch, he went to the fridge. The calendar on the door caught his eye. Full moon - time to plant the seed potatoes, apparently. He’d even offered to help. But noticing she’d scribbled ‘plant and the world plants with you, weed and you weed alone’ in the margin, he laughed out loud.

Sandwiches made, he took two pinches of some salt he’d spilt and threw them over both shoulders “Just to be on the safe side” he said to the dogs.

When she materialised to eat her lunch, it was with a big smile on her face. “So, I’ve spent your penny, darling. Or rather, your pound coin. I bought a scratch card with it. Time to put my quaint superstitions to the test..” She tossed the colourful little square across the table to him.

“Not quite treasure, but I won a tenner…! Just sayin’.”

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COMMUNITY National Garden Scheme Hampshire As we slowly come out of lockdown it certainly feels good. Visitor numbers to our gardens, which have already opened for 2021 are certainly showing this. From now until 16th May visitors must pre-book their tickets. From 17th May pre-booked tickets are not essential, but available. But please check for cancellations at: ngs.org.uk New since last month We now have the Hampshire 2021 Yellow Booklet as an e-book. Simply enter the following in your search box:https://issuu.com/levelcreative/docs/ hamps_2021 where you will find all the garden information and pictures.

A few open gardens which are local to your area.

Selborne (not the village), East Woldham Alton, GU34 3AE Open: Sat to Mon 15th, 16th & 17th May - 2pm to 5pm Admission: £4.00 children free Refreshments: At the discretion of owner. https://ngs.org.uk/view-garden/15117

The Thatched Cottage, Upper Farringdon Alton, GU34 3EG Opening: Sunday & Monday 30th & 31st May 1pm to 5pm Admission: £6.00 children free.

Refreshments: At the discretion of owners https://ngs.org.uk/view-garden/31074 Tanglefoot, Crawley, Winchester, SO21 2QB Opening: Thursday 13th & Sunday 16th May 2pm to 5.30pm Admission: £5.00 children free.

Refreshments: At the discretion of owners https://ngs.org.uk/view-garden/18758 There are a few other Hampshire Gardens open in May, along with our Virtual Tours (two from Hampshire - Old Camps and Froyle Gardens) all available on the website ngs.org.uk Happy Visiting! Pat Beagley (Publicity) National Garden Scheme - Hampshire pat.beagley@ngs.org.uk For more information about the New Forest and Hampshire County Show visit www. newforestshow.co.uk

The Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery, Alton There is a great deal to browse in the Gallery and the Museum, once we are open again.

(Hopefully the end of May - keep an eye on our Website.) In the meantime, Culture on Call contains all sorts of information on the Collections, arts, culture and heritage in Hampshire. cultureoncall.com

Some of the Delftware in the Allen Gallery

At the back is a delft apothecary pill slab hand-painted in blue and white with

50

the arms of the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries and the motto Opifer Que Per Orbem Dicor set within a banner. The octagonal-shaped slab has two holes to the upper edge to enable this to be hung. These were made in Bristol and London. Pill-slabs or pill-tiles were traditionally thought to have been used to roll out pill ingredients, but the elaborate and decorative nature of these plaques suggests that they were more commonly used for display purposes. Also many seem to have very little damage.

The shield depicts Apollo, associated with healing, holding a bow and arrow above a dragon, a symbol of disease. The motto refers to Apollo and translates as 'I am the bringer of help throughout the world'.

With thanks to Jane Hurst Tel: 01420 82802 www.hampshireculture.org.uk And on Facebook

New Alresford Town Trust Update on events New Alresford Town Trust are looking forward to a better 2021.

We have plans as follows: 1. The Avenue 1.1 The 4 yearly tree survey (some 150 trees) is underway on both the Avenue and Broad Street.

1.2 Action to minimise flooding and for grass seeding undertaken in Feb/Mar to repair the bare patches.

2. Pam Stevens memorial bench 2.1 Bench ordered for special ceremony on 27/6 to be performed by our MP Steve Brine, on the Avenue.

3. Eel House 3.1 First opening planned for 31/5/21 with new literature.

4. Museum 4.1 First opening planned for 31/5/21.

Roy Gentry /Team has done immense work on new display units/exhibitions/ computer linkage.

5. Markets 5.1 Thursday markets continuing with food only until 12/4/21. There are currently 6 stallholders. On 15/4 it will grow back to an expected 10 stalls.

5.2 Brocante market is being planned for 3/5/21 .Working with WCC on restrictions etc.

6. Covid Payments 6.1 We have only made 5 payments from the COVID appeal totalling £1850.

7. Minibus 7.1 Ready to restart the minibus operation, albeit with limit of 5 persons per journey.

7.2 New team in operation led by Bernard Simmons, a long time driver.

Conclusion We have survived during a very trying Covid restricted year but are now in position to take on events for 2021.

Robin Atkins NATT, chair

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Main image - 3 metre table £5038, Dining chair (white) - £524 Inset Image - Chair £2098, Sofa £4408, Ottoman £789

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COMMUNITY roadmap out of lockdown. The health and safety of everyone attending the Show is of paramount importance to the organisers.

Romsey Show – Saturday 11th September 2021 The Show will Go On !

Following the Government’s recent update, The Romsey Show have announced that they are planning to hold their event on Saturday 11th September 2021 providing all dates are met as per the Government’s

Jackie’s County Corner for May

Phew! Lockdown eases a little as I write this!

I hope you are all well enough to enjoy it and to visit our local businesses who are desperate to serve you.

As I visit you in your homes, I see more and more packages on the doorstep. This has a good and bad effect: these packages bring the things we need to our homes, but more delivery lorries are on the roads, with tight schedules, maybe travelling a little faster than they should. Buying online risks the future of our high streets and the mountain of packaging generated has to be recycled.

Meanwhile, we can still only book ‘trips to

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Plans are still being put in place on what the Show will look like but, due to the cancellation of other agricultural shows, Romsey is unable to host cattle and sheep competitions this year and horse competitions will be significantly reduced.

However, The Romsey Show is committed to ensuring livestock will be represented in some form at the Show. Also, because the date for lifting final restrictions is only 12 weeks to the Show, sufficient time will not be available to organise large entertainments in the main ring and so the organisers have come to the difficult decision to have no main ring this year. What can be announced is that the Show is moving sites, within Broadlands Park, nearer to Romsey Rapids and the town centre and will offer an exciting, fun and enjoyable day out at a reduced price.

the tip’ by car to dispose of the packaging.

The cumulative effect of all these lorry and van movements has a huge effect on the local community. Many of you are having to walk on roads without footways. Muddy passing places are created by those who have the biggest vehicles. Should the County Council be making it clear who has priority in this case?

Putting Pedestrians First means thinking about the way we all get around for at least the last part of our journey. An Alresford project started with SEEDA funding in 2007. Much of what was proposed has been done now I am pleased that the West Street footway and bus stop improvements are funded and planning work is underway.

It has been proved in other towns that improved access for pedestrians brings more with real benefits for the local economy too, so it is an ethos I’d like to develop more.

Rural children have had different experiences of ‘school at home’ . Now they are back to school, school transport for rural children is essential to reduce the need to use private cars which cause pollution and congestion. I hope we can reinstate free buses for reception age children again.

Access to fast enough broadband and enough devices to support working parents

More details will be released over the forthcoming months, to keep up to date with the developments, visit www.romseyshow. co.uk.

If you would like to find out more about Godolphin, please get in touch with our Head of Admissions, Corinna Florence admissions@godolphin.org

and children has been a challenge too.

Yvette, Margot and I have been working with local Community Fibre Partnerships across the Itchen Valley division to improve this for the future: (search Broadband on my website.)

The County’s flooding alleviation schemes are being completed after a very slow period during the pandemic. In the Alresford area, smaller schemes that make a big impact on neighbouring properties have been my focus.

If you are affected by local flash flooding, please let me know. In a meeting with them, I was relieved to hear that the new owners of the Sun Lane land are fully aware of the positive effect that development must have on flooding mitigation in that area.

The County Council is up for election in its entirety on the 6th May. The Covid-19 helpline remains open. I really do hope to be back to write the June edition of County Corner!

Cllr Jackie Porter, County Council’s Covid-19 helpline 0333 370 4000 www.jackieporter.co.uk 07973 696 085, Jackie.porter@hants.gov.uk 01962 791054

Feeling more isolated and anxious during lockdown? are you having trouble hearing TV or talking on the telephone?

WE ARE STILL OPEN