Itchen Valley Forum March 2022

ISSUE 184 APRIL 2022

ITCHEN VALLEY

Forum Life in your Community

Easter EASTER TREATS

FEATURE

THE EEL HOUSE

THE GARDEN

Earl Grey and clementine Easter hot cross bun trifle

Watching the detectives

Alresford Eel House, history and habitat

Top Tips and local services

by Lucia Foster-Found

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

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!

Mention this advert to get £10 off your next MOT

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

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

ITCHEN VALLEY FORUM APRIL 2022

CONTENTS 04 April Events 05 Property Management

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14

Feature

Watching the detectives

by Lucia Foster-Found Find local schools and educational experts

16

Church Services and News

16

Garden Feature

Earl grey and clementine Easter hot cross bun trifle

52

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

Food & Drink

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

53

Home

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

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

Feature

The Alresford Eel House: history and habitat

64 Motoring

Make your garden dream come true

Local services to keep your vehicle running

33

Retail

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

37

Arts & Culture

Discover local events and days out or in

50 Community

Alresford Town Council Report

Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk

Contributors Lucia Foster-Found

Forum Publications Offices

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Unit 8A, Shelf House, New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QH Tel: 01962 735137 www.forumpublications.co.uk

48 Entertainment

Advertising Manager Mandy Head mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk

Get in Touch

40 Professional Services

From photographers to solicitors every professional service you need

Editor Mark Tubb editor@forumpublications.co.uk

www. luciafosterfound.com

30 Wellbeing

Looking after your health and yourself!

The Team

Community

12

Buying, selling, letting?

Find local estate agents and property management services

13 Education

52 Recipe of the Month

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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, 2022

COMMUNITY

April Events Saturday 2nd April Ropley Horticultural Society Spring Show From 2.30pm- 4pm - Ropley Parish Hall, Vicarage Lane, Ropley SO24 0DJ Flowers and Produce, Floral Art, Cookery, Children’s Classes, Cream Teas, Raffle, free parking, and free entry!

Friday 8th April John Miller In Conversation with Nicholas Claxton From 6.30 pm in Cheriton Church.

John Miller In Conversation with Nicholas Claxton, Emmy-award winning documentary film director and producer.

Tickets cost £15 and include a glass of wine and canapes. They can be bought from the stpetersropley.org.uk website. See the website for more details about the talk.

Wednesday 13th April Alresford and District Horticultural Society We are holding a Coffee Morning and Plant and Seed Swap in the Meryon Hall of Alresford Community Centre on 2 April at 10am. Coffee, tea, biscuits or homemade cake will be available. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 pm in St Gregory’s Hall, Grange Road, Alresford. The next meeting will be on 13 April and will be the Members Only Spring Show. Visitors are welcome to attend. For further information contact Mr Stephen Morley on 01962 733524 or hortic@allthemorleys.co.uk Friday 15th to Monday 18th April National Open Garden Scheme Crawley Gardens Winchester, SO21 2PR From 2pm to 5.30pm - Combined Admission: £8.00 children free Refreshments in Village Hall: Homemade teas - https://ngs.org.uk/viewgarden/17567 - Here you have three gardens for one price - all set in the extremely picturesque village of Crawley, with its duck pond and thatched cottages.

Little Court is 3 acre country garden with carpets of Spring bulbs. Bay Tree House is a Mediterranean style garden with bulbs and wildflowers. Paige Cottage is a traditional English garden with Spring bulbs and wildflowers.

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Sunday 17th April Alresford Twinning Association Help Us Celebrate 40 Years of Twinning in Alresford As part of the 40th Anniversary Celebrations the Twinning Association invites you to a Coffee Morning and Exhibition of material from the 40 years of our partnership with Bricquebec.

Please join us between 10am and noon at Alresford Community Centre.

Sunday 17th April French market (Easter Sunday) From 10am to 4pm - We welcome its return after a couple of years, a genuine French Market with stalls and produce.

Monday 18th April The Eel House, Norman Bridge and Museum - Open Days Eel House from 11am to 5pm. Norman Bridge and Museum from midday to 4pm.

Saturday 25th April Ropley Horticultural Society Talk Monday 7.45pm - Talk: Easy Plants for Difficult Places with Ray Broughton Thursday 28th April Alresford Art Society: AGM followed by a talk on 'The Glasgow Boys' by Anne Anderson At 7.30pm in Bishop's Sutton Village Hall, Alresford Road (B3047), Alresford SO24 0AH (Covid regulations allowing).

Non-members are welcome to the talk from 8 pm (admission £3) For further information, please contact Richard Cox on 01962 732043 or visit www.artsociety. alresford.org Monday 2nd May The Eel House,Norman Bridge and Museum - Open Days Eel House from 11am to 5pm. Norman Bridge and Museum from midday to 4pm.

Monday 2nd May Brocante Market (Bank Holiday Monday) From 9am to 4pm - Continuation of the successful market into its third year.

Wednesday 11th May Save The Date: Garden & Craft Fair in aid of Winchester Go-LD From 10am to 4pm at Upper Farm,

Down Farm Lane, Headbourne Worthy, SO23 7LA. Entrance £5. Ample parking available onsite, sorry no dogs. A great day out with lots of exciting new stalls, a lunch marquee, floral workshops and demonstrations and illustrated plant and garden talks by a Hillier expert.

Please look at our website for more details: https://winchestergold.org.uk/getinvolved/ This event is being generously supported by Cobbs, Hillier, Creative Flora, Savills and NFU Mutual.

Sunday15th May The Cafe at St. John's At the Watercress Festival. A warm welcome awaits you in the John Pearson Hall. Open from 10am to 4pm. Come and enjoy a delicious slice of homemade cake with a cup of coffee/tea or squash for children.

Sunday 15th May Solos Sunday Tea The Solos Sunday Tea is held in the John Pearson Hall on the third Sunday of each month. Our next Tea will be from 2pm-4pm. Do come along and enjoy Tea Homemade Cake Conversation and Friendship. Info 10am -12noon 01962 733545 Saturday 4th June Kilmeston Village Fete From 2pm - 4.30pm at Dean House Gardens, Kilmeston, SO24 0NL Cream Teas, Coffee & Homemade Cakes, Served in the Orangery. Pimms on the Lawn. A walk in Dean House gardens. Strawberries & Ice Cream. Live brass band. Sorry no dogs (except assistance dogs). Stalls Games - Kids Activities.

Adults £2 Children Free, By kind permission of Philip and Martha Gwyn Sunday 19th June The Open Gardens of Broad Street in aid of the Alresford Pigs, the food bank and the Winchester Beacon (nightshelter) A rare opportunity to visit these unique gardens on beautiful Broad Street in Alresford. These ancient burgage plots, as they were known when laid out by bishop de lucy’s developers in about 1200, are survivors of this medieval layout.

Gardens Open from 11am to 5pm.

Afternoon teas, tombola and plant stall.

Entrance £6 per head - admits to all open gardens. Children under 16 free.

To add your event to our events page email: editor@ forumpublications.co.uk

% 20 ON N OFF TAKE

ERS G ORDDURIN IL APR

Before Makeover

After Makeover

Make your OLD kitchen a NEW kitchen for a fraction of the cost of buying a new kitchen Oneil - From the moment we met Ben until Martin had completed the work the service we received was first class. Ben's eye for design helped us to improve on our ideas. Martin and James were professional in every way. Nothing was too much trouble.

If difficulties arose they were quickly dealt with.

The final result has been admired by all our family and friends.

Happy Kitchens are quite unique as we are able to offer top quality products, available in any size, fitted by the best professionals in the business. Change your kitchen and bedroom with a makeover or design and install a new kitchen and bedroom, whichever suits your needs or price range.

Sales | Property Management | Lettings ALRESFORD Asking Price: £650,000 | EPC Rating: D

OLD ALRESFORD Asking Price: £650,000 | EPC Rating: E

MEDSTEAD Asking Price: £2,000,000 | EPC Rating: C

BISHOP'S SUTTON Asking Price: £750,000 | EPC Rating: E

A name you can count on in a changing world…

MICHELDEVER Asking Price: £860,000 | EPC Rating: E

WEST TISTED To Let: £1,750pcm | EPC Rating: E

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

Sales | Property Management | Lettings

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

A name you can count on in a changing world…

Looking to move? We’d love to help…

A name you can count on in a changing world…

A name you can count on in a changing world…

With spring well and truly here, this is the time of year when people start thinking about moving home.

The market remains buoyant and we are currently experiencing an unprecedented number of enquiries from motivated buyers and tenants who want to find their perfect home this year. Quality properties in Alresford and the surrounding villages are especially in demand, both to rent and to buy.

If you are planning to sell or let out your property this year, now is the optimum time to talk to us. Our dedicated and friendly team will be delighted to guide you through the process from start to finish, with the minimum of fuss along the way.

Call us today on 01962 736333 to discuss getting you moving in 2022!

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

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 secret to a successful let As local letting agents, we are invited into homes of all shapes and sizes. We get to meet many different landlords and tenants on a daily basis, and one question we regularly get asked by property owners is “What makes for a successful let?”

One of the first considerations is at what level of rent to market the property.

Too low, and you could lose income for the period of the tenancy. Too high, and the property may be sat empty for several weeks A good agent will provide a report of comparable properties, and what rent they were marketed at. When used in conjunction with local market knowledge, this can provide a solid base on which to set the rent.

Whether to let the property furnished, or unfurnished, is another common concern. Demand is traditionally highest for unfurnished homes, which typically include carpets, curtains and a cooker. If the furniture is included, then any soft furnishings must comply with the Fire and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) regulations 1988.

Another consideration is the condition of the property. A neutrally decorated interior is always welcomed by tenants, as is a property that

Ian Woodhouse-Smith FARLA

has been professionally cleaned, including the carpets. As a rule, the best presented homes command a higher rent, and are normally treated with more care by tenants.

Setting a benchmark with the garden is also important, with the grass cut, borders weeded and hedges trimmed.

One vital aspect of setting up a rental property is to have a good quality independent inventory and schedule of condition completed, prior to a tenant moving in.

This document records the condition of the property, including any preexisting marks or defects. Many landlords see the inventory as an ‘optional extra’ but, when used in conjunction with the check-out report when the tenant leaves, it is invaluable as a basis for discussions over the return of a tenant’s deposit. The inventory and check-out reports come into their own in the unfortunate event that there is damage to the property and a dispute ensues. Whilst this isn’t a common occurrence, such situations need to be planned for.

Contact us today to talk to one of our lettings experts T:01962 736333 lettings@hellards.co.uk www.hellards.co.uk

Helen Gee

Fiona Wingent

Rebecca Jackson MARLA

Hatch your new home plans with PRADO this spring...

The daffodils are up – and so is the housing market!

We’re not sure why everyone gets the moving bug in spring – but it’s our busiest time here at PRADO. And we LOVE it. Buttered hot cross buns, coffee on the deck, and an Easter basketful of properties to handle. In the Prado household we say, bring on the spring!

Now really is the perfect time to get your house on the market. Blossom sets any home off nicely, and there are plenty of inquisitive fresh buyers looking for a new nest. It’s also the best time for browsing if you’re planning to buy – and getting the right help and advice

– that’ll be us then!

Buying or selling, BRAVO! YOU’VE FOUND PRADO!

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give Nony & Sam a call!

“We just wanted to say thank you for selling our house for us. After 37 years it was a difficult decision to sell but we are confident we chose the right agents to undertake it for us.

I have to say we have not been disappointed with the service we received and I would say to anyone considering selling their house they could not go wrong by using you.

We are very pleased with the service.”

S e l l i n g P r o p e r t y w i t h H o n e s t y & I n t e g r i t y f o r o v e r 2 0 Ye a r s If you are currently under a sole agency contract to another agent, you should check the terms of that contract to avoid potentially being exposed to dual fees

In Association With

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PROPERTY / COMMUNITY

to be opened by retired Paralympian Gold Medallist Peter Hull MBE

Wednesday 11th May 2022 10am to 4pm

at Upper Farm, Down Farm Lane Headbourne Worthy, Winchester SO23 7LA Flower workshop and demonstration.

Details & booking contact creativeflora.co.uk 07831 807363 Talks, 30+ stalls, food area and marquee PARKING AVAILABLE ON SITE * NO DOGS PLEASE!

Entrance £5

winchestergold.org.uk 01962 600281

Kindly sponsored by:

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Alresford Rotary is supporting the people of Ukraine

links with Rotary that exist in Moldova and Romania through the annual Rotary Wessex shoebox scheme are also very helpful.

Rotary and Peace the world over… is the toast traditionally proposed at the end of Rotary Club meals.

The cornerstone of Rotary worldwide is Peace and with that in mind, Alresford Rotary is actively promoting and supporting the efforts of Rotary Wessex to raise monies that can be used to help the people of Ukraine. Not being a first response charity Wessex Rotary’s appeal is to support charities linked directly with Rotary that are developing projects to support victims of displacement. The aim is to enable those charities to purchase goods and support the local labour force and volunteers to fulfil their tasks. By using the Rotary network of well established contacts the Rotary Wessex International Disaster Team can act very quickly ensuring that monies donated are very quickly passed on to Rotary Charity partners such as Shelterbox, Rotary Water Survival Box, Rotary Fellowship of Healthcare Professionals and Rotary Inter-Country committees. The existing

Rotary is one of the largest voluntary service organisations in the world, open to everyone, where members can give us much time as they wish, helping with local causes and events and making new friends. 1.2 million Rotarians world wide see solutions, not problems and make things happen and make a difference, promoting peace and helping others in communities around the world every day to fight life-threatening diseases like Polio, HIV/AIDS and malaria and to provide clean water, sanitation and hygiene.

Writing this in mid-March it seems inevitable that the worst is yet to come and the effects of the current military action will be devastating for the Ukrainians and the world for years to come. The initial response of those living in mid-Hampshire has been magnificent – thank you - but help is required long term. Please make what donation you can to the Rotary Wessex appeal – collecting tins are in several New Alresford shops or have a look at Alresford Rotary’s website which links to Just Giving. All profits from Alresford Rotary’s quiz at Itchen Abbas village hall on 8th April will be given to the Rotary Wessex appeal. If you’d like to book please email wjrp@ hotmail.co.uk or phone 738788 to check availability.

Last month Alresford Rotary was delighted to welcome Ropley resident Kim Boog of the Barn Owl Project & Bird of Prey Hospital as a new member, doubling our female membership! If, like Kim, you would like to share in Rotary’s activities and make a difference please let us know. We’d love to hear from you!

James Pinniger

www.chartersestateagents.co.uk

01962 734633

alresford@chartersestateagents.co.uk

LOCAL | INDEPENDENT | AWARD -WINNING

ALRESFORD

YOUR ALRESFORD LETTINGS SPECIALISTS

AIDAN HUMPHRIES

ALEX DURANI

REB PEARSON

JOSHUA CARTER

HELEN NICOL

has the correct electrical certification, and that you are carrying out your legal responsibilities to ensure the health and safety of your tenant by keeping the property safe and free from health hazards, to name just a few.

Are you unhappy with the current

With forecasts for the lettings market remaining strong in 2022, you may well be thinking of renting your property and maximising your income.

There has never been a more important time to choose the right lettings agent. Top of your list of reasons why you should talk to us is Helen, your dedicated, proactive Property Manager who will be appointed to help you throughout your tenancy and who’s supported by a team of property managers when required.

management arrangements in place for your existing rental property?

Charters Lettings can arrange a no hassle transfer service including a full compliance check for ZERO SET UP FEE and the FIRST THREE MONTHS of our management service provided FREE.*

From our experienced valuation teams who will help you prepare your property for rental and optimise your income potential to the pre-tenancy department that will ensure your property is fully compliant before the tenancy begins, Charters really has you covered.

Everyone is here to help and we all work together, We take the stress out, so you can relax, while communicating seamlessly to keep everything in we do all the work. The lettings industry is full of Terms and conditions apply - Our management transfer service check. So, if this sounds like the kind of letting regulatory and compliance standards which have to requires a minimum 12-month commitment. service you would like to trust your investment be met, many of which can be time consuming and property with, get in touch, we would love to hear from you. worrying for landlords, such as ensuring your property is fire compliant, *

SCAN ME to book your

To find out more, please call the team on

FREE RENTAL OR SALES VALUATION

01962 734633

A SELECTION OF HOMES RECENTLY LET

LET

LET

LET

LET

DUMMER

ALRESFORD

ALRESFORD

ALRESFORD

A SELECTION OF HOMES AVAILABLE TO LET

TO LET

TO LET

TO LET

ALRESFORD

ALRESFORD

ALRESFORD

ALRESFORD I ALTON I BISHOPS WALTHAM I CHANDLERS FORD I FARNHAM I PARK GATE I ROMSEY I SOUTHAMPTON I WINCHESTER I LONDON

FEATURE

Watching The Detectives © LUCIA FOSTER-FOUND 2022

WWW.LUCIAFOSTERFOUND.COM

“You there?” Himself called from the study.

“In the kitchen, cooking dinner and watching the detectives.” She replied.

“Line of Duty?” she heard the interested tone in his voice; a bit of a fan, he had the complete box set.

“Aussie Gold Hunters.”

“Is that new? What’s the plot?” his curiosity piqued, he appeared in the doorway.

“People in the Australian outback, metal detecting for nuggets of gold.

Or, as they often call them, ‘little rippers’.”

“Good grief.” He sounded horrified. “Out there with all those snakes, spiders and sun! And actually, they’re called ‘detectorists’, not ‘detectives’.” He paused and continued. “Um, do you like the programme? You know, them going out with their metal detectors and finding stuff ?” He was watching her closely, keenly. She sensed an ambush.

“You’ve bought one, haven’t you?” she surmised.

Himself looked momentarily wrong footed, but countered with “I thought it might make a good birthday present.”

“Who for? Not me, I hope,” remembering her disappointment when an uncle bought her an airfix glider kit for her twelfth birthday, then locked himself away all day making it. Before crashing it on its maiden flight.

“No. It’s for me.” He admitted. “From the dogs.”

He added, as something of an afterthought. The spaniels looked up at the mention of the word ‘dogs’ and thumped their tails on the floor.

“They do look happy with their purchase and actually, I think it would be fun. But won’t we need permission to roam about randomly digging holes on people’s land.”

Himself’s face lit up “Indeed – but not on some beaches! I thought we could do a little detecting when we take the dogs to the coast for a walk.” (More enthusiastic tail thumping.)

So the following weekend found them at the sea side, where the detector did just what it said on the box. When it located something metallic in the sand, it beeped.

And Himself did something similar. “*Beep* rubbish, *Beep* waste of effort” he muttered as he examined the bottle top/tent peg/battery he’d just laboriously dug up.

Every so often, someone would

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approach and ask “Found any gold?” Himself would shake his head morosely and carry on, as they wished him luck.

A sit on the sand and a coffee break, then the detecting reconvened with a 2p piece and a fishing weight.

Until, finally..

“Good signal?” Himself’s body language told her that this one was different. He looked up with the light of fanaticism in his eyes, before they both dropped to their knees to dig. Spotting them, the spaniels returned from the surf. Determined to help, they stuck their snouts in the hole before shaking seawater in every direction.

“Listen,” Himself wiped his glasses and paused in his shovelling.

Failing to dodge a sandy canine kiss he whispered “if it’s something really valuable, we shouldn’t draw attention to ourselves. You’ve seen how people watch us when we’re just digging up rubbish. If they see we’ve found gold, when we come back next time, we won’t be able to move for other detectorists!” He said dramatically. She looked furtively around, expecting an audience of onlookers. No-one was paying the slightest attention to them.

“OK..” She’d been mentally choreographing her ‘gold dance’, but shelving that, she imagined hordes of people marching up and down the beach. Like lockdown, but with more digging. And disappointment.

“So, we need to act nonchalantly - and we ought to have a code.” He was smiling the smile that indicated his inner child had surfaced.

“If it’s a gold coin, we say ‘Jack Sparrow’. And if it’s a gold watch, we say ‘White Rabbit.”

Bonkers.

She liked it.

Joining in, her inner Tolkien surfaced “And if it’s a gold ring, we say ‘my precious’. And don’t forget that nuggets are ‘little rippers’.”

The ring they eventually extracted from the deep, water and spaniel-nose-filled hole generated a moment of excitement and a passably creepy Gollum impersonation. Closer inspection revealed it was just gold plated non-precious metal. They sighed and kicked sand back into their excavations, consoled that they’d all had plenty of exercise and fresh air.

Later, back at home, two tired dogs in their bed – their paws twitching in slumber, sand still clinging to their fur.

“You there?” Himself called from the study.

“In the kitchen, cooking dinner and watching the detectives.” She replied.

“Aussie Gold Hunters?” she heard the interested tone in his voice and smiled.

No, she thought, been there, done that.

“Line of Duty...”

SAVE OUR PLANET: SOLVE IT, CREATE IT, SELL IT Our free interactive half-day sustainability course for girls currently in year 5.

Saturday 7 May 2022 8.30am - 1.00pm Light refreshments will be provided.

To book please visit www.stswithuns.com/planet or call 01962 835700

COMMUNITY

''But now is Christ risen from the dead.... by man (Adam) came death, by Man (Jesus) came also the Resurrection from the dead'' 1 Corinthians 15:20,21 For some commentary on current events, please read Matthew 24:8 (4-8) and Luke 21:10.11.

We would like to offer a free booklet `Why the Resurrection of Jesus matters’ Please request a copy via our website contact form www.newfarmchapel.org.uk or by email: nfcalresford@gmail.com

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

Hampshire Countryside Service

It was over three years ago I was chatting to a couple of guys I know in Alresford. They asked what I was doing with my time now I was retired. I said it wasn’t a lot which is when they said they spent a day a week with HCC’s Countryside Service. I said I’d give it a go.

The County has various areas of responsibility: Queen Elizabeth Country Park, rivers, paths & rights of way, the Basingstoke Canal.

The section I work with, Central Countryside Sites, manages

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a National Nature Reserve, Sites of Special Scientific Interest and Scheduled Ancient Monuments within an area bordered by Alresford, Bishops Waltham, Petersfield and Danebury. In some places work is undertaken in conjunction with other authorities such as Natural England and the National Parks; plus, local groups will join us if we are on ‘their patch’.

I dare say that many people will think ‘why should I volunteer to help the council when I pay my rates?’. To put this into some sort of context, without volunteers all this work within the area I mentioned above would have to be undertaken by just four paid staff. It wouldn’t happen and these lovely places, which are essentially yours, would fall into disrepair.

The work I am most involved with is removing scrub for restoration of chalk grassland habitat at half a dozen sites. The work entails cutting down scrub & small trees, putting up & replacing fences and generally having a tidy up, which often ends up with a large fire.

Other sites might require path repairs and widening.

Covid has hit the volunteer numbers hard. During the last two years, a number of the older team members have given up for a number of reasons. We need more volunteers. So, why not give it a go? You get to see places you would not necessarily know about, meet new people, learn new skills (like hedge laying, coppicing and rounding up livestock!) and end the day knowing you have achieved something tangible. Definitely different to office work.

Contact, Office: 01962 860948 Email: centralcountrysidesites@hants.gov.uk

Churches Together in Alresford

Holy Week & Easter Services St. Gregory's New Alresford

St. John's New Alresford

Maundy Thursday 20.00 Mass of the Lord's Supper

Palm Sunday 09.30 All Age Service

Good Friday 15.00 The Passion of the Lord Holy Saturday 20.30 Easter Vigil Easter Day 11.00 Mass

St. Mary the Virgin Old Alresford Palm Sunday 09.30 Communion Maundy Thursday 19.30 Short Vigil Service Easter Day 09.30 Communion

Good Friday 14.00 Vigil Service Easter Day 08.00 Communion 09.30 Family Communion

St. Peter's Ovington Palm Sunday 11.00 Communion Easter Day 10.00 Communion

Sun Hill Infant School New Alresford

All Saints Bighton Palm Sunday 11.00 Communion Easter Day 11.00 Communion

Alresford Methodist Church New Alresford Good Friday 10.00 Morning worship led by Mrs Elizabeth Britton.

Easter Day 10.30 Sunday morning worship led by Mr.Tom Belshaw

Easter Day 06.00 Service followed by light breakfast

11am - Good Friday Walk of Witness starting from Alresford Methodist Church

Please check with individual churches (website, posters, pewsheet, facebook etc) 15

THE SPRING

GARDEN

Don't let late frosts damage your seedlings In spring your seedlings are vulnerable to late frosts, which even in late April can set in overnight. If a hard frost is forescast, cover your seedlings overnight with anything you have to hand: an overturned flowerpot or cardboard box (with a rock on top), a portable garden cloche, or if you own one a cold frame. If your garden has the space, and your budget allows, a small greenhouse is ideal for starting seedlings early in the season and protecting them from any harsh spring weather.

Weed spring weeds and mulch bare patches in your beds When the weeds begin to apprear in your garden beds, now is the easiest time to pull them out, when the roots are shallow.

Covering bare patches of earth with mulch or ground cover will minimize the emergence of any new weeds. Try to add mulch to a depth of three to four inches for the best results. Weed membrane can also be used to cover the beds before planting as a way to suppress any emerging weeds.

And if you look under the membrane once a week, you may likely find slugs which have

been hiding. This is a simple way to reduce the slug population in your garden beds.

To help reduce rot in the stems of new plants or young trees, keep the mulch a few inches away from the stem or trunk.

This also protects bark of young fruit trees.

There are various types of mulch available, check the best product for your plants.

Fix trellises and fencing Trellises and fencing have taken a lot punishment in the Winter storms, they are easiest to repair in early spring, with less growth to work around and fewer roots to disturb. Setting new fence posts, however, is best done after the April showers have abated and the earth has had a chance to drain through. If the water table is too high which is likely after the recent weather, postholes will fill with water as you try to dig. As the weather improves and the saturated ground drains loose posts may become firm again.

Thin out any dead foliage Once new growth starts, it becomes difficult to thin ornamental grasses and ferns without causing damage. The growth

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will quickly replace the cut away foliage. If you didn’t get around to this last Autumn, remove any old dead plants to clear the bed for planting. These can be added to the compost if you are sure they do not have any plant diseases.

Control slugs and Snails Wet weather causes slugs and snails to emerge. If slugs are a problem in your area, monitor your seedlings for damage and remove pests as they emerge. Please always use non-toxic slug pellets for the safety of pets and other garden creatures. Place the pellets when weather permits to keep them from decimating your garden before you get a chance to enjoy your harvest.

Repair any broken sides to raised beds Damp winter soil deteriorates raised beds; sometimes a stake will rot and give way leading to damage to borders. Any broken or leaning sides should be fixed. Dig the soil behind the broken or leaning sides and drive in new stakes on the inside of the boards with a slight inward lean. Then push the boards up to stakes and fasten with screws or nails.

C&D Trees All Tree & Hedge Care

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

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

Top dress beds, when it's dry enough Top dressing garden beds with compost or well-seasoned manure helps feed the soil in preparation for planting. Try not to dig the bed; established beds have a elaborate and sensitive soil ecosystem which is best left undisturbed. Nutrients added from the top will gradually feed into the soil.

Prepare your lawn for spring Scarify your lawn to remove any dead growth and winter debris. This helps bring light and aerate to the soil which in turn encourages growth. Grass seeding bare patches of lawn. Scarify any bare spots firmly with a metal rake or scarifier before seeding. Sprinkle the grass seed into a a container of soil and spread the content evenly over the bare spot. Once the area has been seeeded keep well-watered until germination and the new grass has established itself.

Early spring is the best time for lime Soil pH levels can have a significant effect on the health of your plants. Adding lime to a soil with a pH level below 6.2 will benefit the soil quality. Ideally, lime should be added a few weeks before planting. Do not purchase a “quick lime”, as it can change the soil pH so rapidly that plants may be damaged. Cover all newly limed beds with a membrane or plastic sheet during heavy spring rains to prevent runoff. Test your soil pH level, this can be determined by using a soil pH test kit available in most good garden centres.

Plant starters in trays Get a head start on the summer if you are planning to grow heat-loving vegetables from seed like tomatoes, peppers, aubergine, and basil. Sow any seeds into starter mix and divide into trays. Place on a sunny windowsill or under a grow light as soon as the new shoots emerge.

Plant out bulbs and tubers Now is the time to set out your bulbs which were forced in pots or bowls in the house.

Not all will flower this year, some may bloom in the future, others may take two or three years to gain energy to support flowering. It’s also the time to plant out any lilies, dahlia tubers or gladiola bulbs that may have been overwintered indoors.

Plant seasonal vegetables when soil is workable You can tell when the soil is ready for gardening once it is free of frost and crumbles easily in the hand. Soil that is too wet is will become compacted when worked, reducing beneficial soil aeration. It is highly likely after such a wet winter that the season will be late, fingers crossed for a

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warm, dry, spring. Good early spring crops are peas, spinach, lettuces and leeks.

For a prolonged harvest, plant several varieties, each with a different harvesting time. Once these crops have been harvested you can follow with broccoli, new potatoes, cabbage, turnips, radishes and onions.

Move any shrubs before they leaf Soil conditions in early spring are favorable to move your plants because the soil is more consistently moist, this helps the roots to establish themselves and reach out for more nutrients. To move your shrubs use a spade and find the edges of the main root mass, then dig down and under to loosen the root ball. Make sure that you dig the new hole a few inches wider all around, and add soil nutrients such as compost or organic fertilizer. Once the moved plant is set in place, fill around with lightly compacted soil which will promote lateral root growth.

For more seasonal ideas for the garden see our Summer Itchen Valley Living Magazine out later this year.

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

Tel: 01962 732498 Mob: 07879 448141

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COMMUNITY Alresford Chamber of Commerce Alresford Easter Egg Hunt 9th - 24th April

The Easter Chicks and Bunnies have been busy organizing our beloved Easter Egg Hunt and will be delivering the eggs to the relevant shops all in time for the start date of 9th April running right through to 24th April. Leaflets will be left in many shops downloadable from our website as well as being available from local schools, Have fun!! To be entered into the Grand Prize Draw, you must complete the Egg Hunt, fill out the leaflet and hand in your completed sheet into Ragamuffin Children’s Boutique. Don’t forget to collect your Easter treat when you hand in your form. Our thanks go out to New Alresford Town Council for their continued support of this project.

Parking Strategy

There will be no parking strategy put in place by Winchester City Council for Alresford. Hampshire County Council will be taking over the parking management in 2023 and the council have decided not to implement their own plan until such time that Hampshire take over. After 2 previous attempts within the last 4 years of proposed parking metres, we stand by our survey that was completed by residents in 2019 as to the impact of paid on street parking on our town. We plan to share this information with HCC. At present, there are no plans for any changes but we want to engage at an early stage.

Neighbourhood Plan

Together we are stronger

The Curtis Museum & Allen Gallery

Talks The Social History of the English Civil War Soldier

By Alan Turton. Alan is a military historian, who specialises in the English Civil War and the period up to the mid-18th century.

From 1987-2011 he was the curator of the English Civil War site of Basing House (once the largest private house in Tudor England), which underwent the longest siege of the English Civil War. Thursday 14th April at 7.30 pm. FREE, donations gratefully received.

We are delighted to have been invited by New Alresford Town Council to join the Advisory Group for Alresford Neighborhood Plan. The objective of the plan is to enhance the quality of life in the Parish/Town in future years, have a framework for future land

Allen Gallery

Exhibitions Viva La Still Life - An exhibition of work by artists Vicki Nigoumi, Jane Chadbon and Chris Sercombe.

26th March – 24th April. FREE Sylviane Thomas exhibition - Sylviane divides her time between Hampshire and France, often using the Sea and sea creatures as her inspiration for works in oils or pastels.

2nd April – 15th May. FREE Family Fun Judith Venn Family Easter Workshop. £6 per (accompanied) child.

Pre-bookable through the Gallery.

11th April 11am – 1pm.

Make a LEGO Dodo Suitable for ages 6+. 14th and 21st April, 11am – 1pm and 2pm -4pm. £3.50 per kit.

Easter Trail 12th – 24th April. £1 per trail.

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usage whilst also protecting community assets and the natural environment in New Alresford. We welcome the opportunity for businesses to contribute to this important document. Our secretary Lorraine Bailey will be feeding back on behalf of the Chamber, if businesses would like to contact us then please use the usual email info@alresfordchamber.co.uk

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

A Talk on Gilbert White the Gardener

by David Standing, Formerly Head Gardener at the Gilbert White Museum, Selborne, (now retired). Gilbert White is best known as the author of The Natural History of Selborne, first published in 1789 and still in print, but he was also an enthusiastic and skilled gardener who developed over 40 years an intricate and extensive garden behind his house in Selborne. This talk summarises 38 years of detective work to track down the original layout and planting of this garden. Thursday 28th April at 7.30pm. Tickets £6.50 bookable in advance from the Gallery.

Curtis Museum

Easter Activities Easter Trail 12th – 24th April. £1 per trail. Please phone 01420 82802 or see our websites for the most up-todate news.

Opening Times Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday Curtis 10am – 4.30pm. Allen 10.30 – 4pm www.hampshireculture.org.uk/curtis-museum www.hampshireculture.org.uk/allen-gallery Tel: 01420 82802

Leave your lawn to us Independent Lawn Professionals

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GARDEN

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D E S I G N C O N S U LTA N T S

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Patios • Paths • Decks • Drives

Patios • Paths • Decks • Drives • Gates Gates • Gardens • Gazebos • Gardens • Gazebos • Fencing • Pergolas Fencing • Pergolas • Trelliage • Trelliage • Water Features • Planting Water Features • Planting • Lawns • Oak Framed Barns & Home Offices

Lawns • Oak Framed Barns

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Supply and planting large specimen trees and shrubs

PETER PAYNE 01962 733866 or 07778 170442

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

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COMMUNITY / GARDEN

Clubs & Societies

Alresford Art Society Learn to paint or re-visit an old hobby by joining the Alresford Art Society's classes. Choose daytime or evening. Mixed ability and beginners are available. Call Sue Gentry on 01962 773185 or email: sue.gentry@gentrypublicity.co.uk for more details Alresford Ladies Group Meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at 7.30 p.m. in the John Pearson Hall, Alresford. Alresford Rotary Club Talk on February 10th by Jonathan Read. Enquiries to Beverly Terrill, 01962 733112.

Alresford and District Horticultural Society Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 pm in St Gregory’s Hall, Grange Road, Alresford. The next meeting will be on 10 November and the speaker will be Rosemary le Grande who will talk about the Gardens of South Africa. As the speaker has a health condition, masks will be obligatory for this meeting. For further information contact Mr Stephen Morley on 01962 733524 or hortic@allthemorleys.co.uk Cheriton Singers We are a small, friendly choir who meet each Tuesday evening in term time in Cheriton.

The Alresford Community Centre Badminton Club A small friendly social group, meeting every Monday evening 7pm - 9.30pm In the upstairs hall at the centre!

Phone: 01962 733812 Arle Reading Group We meet in Alresford Library from 2pm till 3pm on the third Monday of most months, to share our views about a book we have chosen to read, and which Hampshire CC Library Service supplies. The group widens the range of books we read, lets us hear other opinions, and is a sociable meeting in the town centre.

We have space for two new members: please speak to one of the Librarians, or call Sue on 734 886 (there is a call minder, so be ready to give your name and press #) or David on 734 319 for more information Arle Reading Group We meet in Alresford Library from 2pm till 3pm on the third Monday of most months, to share our views about a book we have chosen to read, and which Hampshire CC Library Service supply.

The group widens the range of books we read, lets us hear other opinions, and is a sociable meeting in the town centre. We have space for two new members: please speak to one of the Librarians, or call Sue on 734 886 (there is a call minder, so be ready to give your name and press #) or David on 734 319 for more information.

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National Garden Scheme - Hampshire Stay active Once again for 2022, the Hampshire Yellow Booklet can be viewed online as a ‘flip-book’. Simply click on the link https://issuu.com/levelcreative/docs/ hamps_2022_flip_book and the booklet is there on your screen - very useful if you are unable to get your hands on a 2022 booklet. To view the booklet in full screen - click on the broken square in the bottom right hand corner of the black screen - to return to the normal screen, click the same button again. ALSO if you want to view a garden in more detail, simply click on the garden and it will take you straight to the website, and the garden in question. Following are a couple of gardens to visit within your area.

Bramdean House

Bramdean, Alresford, SO24 0JU https://ngs.org.uk/ view-garden/3145 Opening: Sunday 10th April 2pm to 4pm. Admission: £7.50 children free. Pre-booking available.

Refreshments: Home-made teas. Carpets of Spring bulbs and a large collection of plants and shrubs giving year round interest. 1 acre walled garden with prize winning vegetables, fruit and flowers.

Twin Oaks

13 Oakwood Road, Chandler’s Ford, SO53 1LW Opening: Sunday & Monday 17th & 18th April 1pm to 5pm Pre-booking available.

Admission: £4.00 children free Payment by Cash OR Card. Refreshments: Home-made teas. https://ngs.org.uk/view-garden/36124 Evolving suburban water garden. Extensive work to ponds and addition of extra bridges carried out through the winter. The waterfall tumbles into a lily pond. There are many covered seating areas to relax and enjoy the relaxing sound of water, whilst eating cake. In 2021, we were able to donate £0.90p in the pound to our beneficiaries. Your visits help us to make a huge difference to our charities.

Pat Beagley (Publicity) National Garden Scheme - Hampshire

GARDEN Age Concern Hampshire - Worried about falling?

You can help prevent it happening to you Stay active - Physical activity and exercises designed to improve muscle strength, balance, coordination and flexibility, are the most effective in preventing falls. You can do these at home or join an online exercise class.

Make your home safer - Use good lighting, especially on the stairs.

Tidy away things you might trip over. Use a non-slip underlay under rugs. In the bathroom, have grab bars put in and use non-slip mats in the bath or shower. Use a small stepladder to reach high places, not a chair. Clean up any spills as soon as they happen.

Have your medication reviewed - Some medicines or combinations of medicines can make you sleepy or dizzy.

Have your vision and hearing checked - Problems with sight can lead to trips and problems with hearing can affect your balance, so phone your doctor or optician if you are concerned.

Eat well - A balanced healthy diet will ensure you get all the essential vitamins and minerals to keep your body and bones healthy.

Wear suitable footwear - Make sure your shoes and slippers fit well and stay on properly. Don’t walk indoors in socks or tights. Take care of your feet by trimming your nails regularly and having any foot problems looked at. Age Concern Hampshire offer foot clinics, call 01489 572819 for more information.

If you are worried, speak to your doctor. Also, consider having a personal alarm, so you can call for help if you need it. If you would like help, contact Denise, Alresford’s Community Information Volunteer on 07969 376023 or contact: enquiries@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

Specialising in all your garden needs Fully insured . Free estimates Also specialising in Commercial gardening work.

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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

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Soft Landscaping

Hard & Soft Landscaping Professionals Tel: 01962 736261

Mob: 07896 027356

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23

www.elitegardenbuildings.co.uk

Show Site Open 7 days a week!

Family run with over 25 years of experience Based in Hampshire

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Elite Garden buildings is a family run business with over 25 years of experience.

We specialise in Summer houses, home offices, workshops and garden sheds.

From delivery to installation we have an experienced team to take care of all the hard work.

Find us at Brambridge Garden Centre Kiln Lane, Brambridge, Eastleigh, SO50 6HT

Tel: 01962 714141 Sheds, Summerhouses, Garden Offices, Log Cabins, Metal Sheds and Greenhouses

www.elitegardenbuildings.co.uk

Elite Garden Buildings Brambridge Park Garden Centre, Kiln Lane, Brambridge, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO50 6HT Tel: 01962 714141 info@elitegardenbuildings.co.uk

GARDEN

Scarification. What is it and why does it matter?

A lot is said about the importance of lawn scarification as part of a regular lawncare regime. Let’s take a look at why this is so important and how to get it right.

What is scarification?

In simple terms it is raking the surface of the lawn, vigorously.

If the lawn area is relatively small, this can be carried out with a spring-tine rake. However, it’s worth realising in advance that this can be hard work. If you are attempting it with a rake, take it slowly, one small area at a time. And be prepared for blisters!

For larger lawn areas, or lawns that are very mossy or thatched and need more intense work, a rake is simply not going to cut the mustard. In these cases, a powered scarifier is required. We meet many homeowners who have what they refer to as a scarifier.

Usually what they have is an electric power-rake. The difference is really in the ability of the machine, and the way they rake the surface of the lawn. An electric power-rake usually has spring tines that spin. A professional scarifier will have either fixed or flexible blades which will cope with more challenging conditions.

Why does your lawn need to be scarified?

There are a number of reasons that a lawn needs this type of work. Firstly, it’s worth saying that even lawns in great condition will benefit from annual scarification.

Lawns can be made up of many different varieties of grass. Some grass types Build up of organic matter causing thatch tend to shed more dead leaves. Some send out runners across the surface of the lawn, which over time can create a mat of organic matter that can create thatch issues. Surface lawn thatch can prevent moisture, nutrients, and air from reaching the roots of your lawn. In addition, thatch can harbour the pathogens that cause redthread and fusarium patch. These common lawn diseases are unsightly and controlling thatch can reduce that problem. For this reason, annual scarification should make up part of your lawn management plan. If a lawn already has a thatch issue, then

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intensive scarification, along with work to boost the soil biology will break this down, and in doing so release organic nutrition into the soil.

For lawns that have deteriorated to the point where they need renovation work, scarification is an integral part of that process.

Many lawns will suffer from issues of moss build up. If not dealt with this moss can begin to take over the lawn, smothering out grass that struggles to compete. Moss may be soft to walk on and green in winter, but it soon dries out, leaving a brown lawn over summer months. In addition, certain grass pests prefer mossy lawns. If left unaddressed, moss can be a serious lawn problem.

In these instances, a petrol-powered, professional lawn scarifier is needed to remove the moss. After the moss has been removed it is essential to treat the area to kill any remaining moss or spores. This is also an ideal time to over-seed the lawn. Newer grass varieties are greener, deeper rooted, harder wearing, more drought and disease tolerant and faster to establish. If your existing lawn is looking bare or tired, then seeding after scarification is the way to go.

Regular lawn treatments to provide the correct nutrition for your grass, feed soil microbial activity to break down organic matter and prevent the build-up of thatch and to treat and kill moss over the winter will help create a lawn you can be proud of.

When to scarify a lawn

Typically, this type of work should be carried out in the early spring or autumn depending on the weather and soil conditions. Lawns that tend to become mossy over winter are better to scarify in the spring – removing that moss buildup and preparing the lawn to be at its best over the During Scarification warmer months to follow.

But be careful. Larger lawns, where there is not the option to irrigate, scarified too late in the spring, as we move into warmer, drier weather, may take longer to recover.

Now is the time to be thinking about how you want your lawn to look this year. Maintaining a great lawn can be more complicated than many people appreciate. If you need the help of a professional, please get in touch Ian Kenyon sits on the committee of the UK Lawn Care Association and owns Shrekfeet Professional Lawncare. He is always happy to offer friendly, professional advice and help: T: 01962 460146 www.shrekfeet.com

GARDEN

FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1973 BUILT ON GREAT SERVICE & VALUE FOR MONEY

Please visit our website for all the latest news, information, second-hand machines for sale and special offers in the showroom.

Tel: 01962 771800 steve.cann@btconnect.com www.georgecanngardenmachinery.co.uk LACEYS FARM, BRAMDEAN, ALRESFORD, HAMPSHIRE, SO24 0JT

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27

SILVERSPRINGS SILVERSPRINGS GGAARRDDEENN CCEENNTTRREE

SILVERSPRINGS SILVERSPRINGS GGAARRDDEENN CCEENNTTRREE

Home & Garden Furniture in stock or available to pre-order FREE local delivery

SILVERSPRINGS SILVERSPRINGS GGAARRDDEENN CCEENNTTRREE

Home & Garden Furniture in stock or available to pre-order FREE local delivery

Stockists of Alexandra Rose, Daro, Leisure Grow Furniture and German Design Award Winner, Aluvision Puro Pergolas.

2022 Outdoor Furniture Range now available in our 1200sqm Showroom

SILVERSPRINGS SILVERSPRINGS GGAARRDDEENN CCEENNTTRREE

info@silverspringsgc.co.uk Find us on Facebook: @SilverSprings.Garden.Centre FONTLEY ROAD, TITCHFIELD, FAREHAM, PO15 6QX

WELLBEING

Changing Gear with My Little Sudocrem Developed in Dublin all the way back in 1931, our favourite hero cream has been soothing families for 90 years. And now for all of us choosing two wheels over four wheels, My Little Sudocrem is a portable 22g size pot, to sootheon-the-go.

The pandemic has seen a 45% leap in bicycle sales totalling a whopping £1 billion, according to Forbes*. An extra 1 million adults hit the cycle lane and this gear-shift trend is set to continue as with the UK’s new-found love of the outdoors.

The UK has also been inspired to jump into the saddle by the amazing achievements of our most successful female Paralympian, Dame Sarah Storey, who says, “Cycling with my family brings me so much joy and I’d really love for more families to benefit from the thrill of being out on bikes together. Cycling is such an amazing feeling and it’s a really fun way of getting around. Apart from the obvious health benefits of getting out in the fresh air and being physically active, cycling is a great way to build resilience and promote independence.”

My Little Sudocrem joined the family in 2018 and is ready to jump into any cycling kit to soothe the cyclist’s exposed skin.

It’s been specifically designed by Sudocrem for soothing and preventative use. Its clinically-proven formulation soothes and protects delicate skin, forming a barrier against irritants and allowing the skin to maintain its natural and healthy condition.

It’s ready to help calm red or irritated areas of skin, to soothe dry patches, cuts and scrapes. It’s discreet and travel-friendly because while the traditional grey 400g pot is iconic and a

30

staple in any household cabinet, we’re not going to be strapping it to the handlebars!

Nick Lang, Head of UK & IE OTC marketing at Sudocrem says, “We’ve noticed that My Little Sudocrem has become popular amongst cyclists, especially to soothe ‘cyclist’s bum’. Cycling is a healthy activity that the whole family can enjoy from riding on the back of mum or dad’s bike, to stabilisers, all the way through to adulthood.”

It is recommended that My Little Sudocrem is applied as frequently as required, to make the most of its soothing and healing properties, which includes zinc oxide which helps to reduce loss of fluid from the skin and protects against irritants and dry skin. Lanolin helps to soften the skin, along with lavender extract, which is renowned for its calming and restorative properties.

So, with the great British summer fast approaching, it’s time to get on yer bike and take your little pot of Sudocrem on your next big adventure! * Forbes April 21 2021 – The Bicycle Association Building On The Boom: The UK Cycling Market in 2020 and Beyond Report

WELLBEING

A CAREER IN OPTICS?

We have vacancies for optical, clinical and dispensing assistants.

Experience welcomed but not essential as full training will be given.

For more details, enquire within or visit matheson-optometrists.com/vacancies.html or send your CV to amatheson@matoptom.com 01962 732336

Four Marks 01420 560082

Grayshott 01428 606069

Portchester 02392 387573

Alresford

www.matheson-optometrists.com

ELIZA WALKER Barbers

• Gentlemans Hair Stylist • Located in Central Alresford • All Covid conditions in place • Easy parking

07733 016138 @ecw_barber

Booking on Fresha.com - search Eliza Walker Barber

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WELLBEING

L

ove Ocean, the new personal care and wellbeing brand, has been created to do just that. Launched June 2021, Love Ocean is a range of bath-time products designed to be loved, refilled and reused – and to help to protect our oceans from plastic waste.

Founded by Winchester based mum-of-two Gabi Jennings, who was inspired to address the disposable nature of children’s toiletries, the brand’s signature whale tail bottle – designed by globally renowned design agency Pearlfisher – is intended to become a cherished part of every family’s bath-time routine.

with mild but effective, child-friendly ingredients, the products and fragrance are ocean-inspired and infused with a delicate sea-scape fragrance using marine top notes and base notes of moss and musks. The formulations are veganfriendly, eco-friendly, ocean-friendly and reef-friendly and formulated without SLS, petrochemicals, parabens or colourants.

The 300ml bottles can be reused and refilled from as little as £5 per refill with Love Ocean’s subscription service, which delivers three-months’ product in reusable pouches direct to your door from loveocean.com.

Tactile and inspiring, it will serve as an ever-present reminder of the importance of ocean conservation, uniting parents and children in a conversation about living more sustainably with the world around us.

Love Ocean Kids Bubble Bath is 99% natural and Love Ocean Kids Hair and Body Wash is 98% natural. Formulated

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Available at www.loveocean.com / Ocado/ Selfridges

WELLBEING / RETAIL

ONLINE CLASSES & STUDIO SESSIONS

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40a West Street,Alresford, Alresford, Hants 40a West Street, Hants 40a West Street, Alresford, Tel: 01962Alresford, 732200 Tel: 01962 732200 Tel: 01962 40a West Street, Hants www.dbarkerandson.co.uk www.dbarkerandson.co.uk www.dbarkerandson.co.uk Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

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RETAIL

Billy Goat Crocs (infant size 4 to adult 11) Lots of colours available! From £25 Billy Goat, 11 East Street, Alresford, SO24 9EQ Tel: 01962 733926 | www.billygoatshoes.co.uk

D.Barker & Son

Ragamuffin

Silver ‘Rimini’ bracelet by Sif Jakobs - £99 40A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 732200 | www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

Time for Tea! Organic Cotton Playsuit

by Pigeon Organics from birth to 18 months - £26.95 2 Bakehouse Yard, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 734488 | www.ragamuffin-uk.com

on your highstreet #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinesses

Alresford Beauty New Spring/Summer range

Enticing and eclectic items now available on your highstreet this autumn. Stay local and support your diverse retailers!

of hair accessories from £3.95 24A West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk

Interior Style Large Zebra Plate - £35.00 29 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 736311 | www.interiorstyle.biz

Andrew Smith & Son Auctioneers

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House of Gallet

Saturday Antiques & Interiors Sale 9th April - Viewing

Bring us your designer wear for store credit. Just give us a call or

10am - 7pm Fri 8th and 8.30am on day of sale Tel: 01962 735988 | www.andrewsmithandson.com

Tel: 01962 735362 | www.houseofgallet.co.uk

pop in to find out how it works. Open Tues - Sat (10-4:30pm)

RETAIL

now Open

y a d r u t a S ening!

Ev Every

The Alresford Gift Shop Gisela Graham Spring Flowers and twig wreath - £38.00 10 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT Tel: 01962 732192 | alresfordgiftshop.co.uk

Fowler & Smith Now open from 3pm until late on Saturday evenings.

Booking advisable to avoid disappointment 30 Broad Street, Alresford, SO24 9AQ

Sole Butchers A Happy Easter to our customers Now taking orders for Easter. Fresh spring lamb and free range oven ready poultry Tel: 01962 735221 | solebutchersofalresford.co.uk

www.32broadstreet.co.uk | info@32broadstreet.co.uk

on your highstreet #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinesses Enticing and eclectic items now available on your highstreet this autumn. Stay local and support your diverse retailers!

Delilah Boutique Best selling Ilse Jacobsen Tulip shoes available in Navy and Army - £57 34 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 738470 | www.delilahboutique.co.uk

Alresford Beauty Spring/Summer bamboo socks from £7.95 24A West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk

The Alresford Gift Shop 5 pack of Easter cards - £4.20 10 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT Tel: 01962 732192 | alresfordgiftshop.co.uk

35

COMMUNITY

Wessex Sculptors Workshop

Clay sculpture and Raku firing. A 2-day course with Jan Hite on the 23rd April from 10am – 4pm at The Barn, Brockwood followed by Raku firing on 14th May 10am – 4pm at Haslemere. For anybody who has not yet been to a raku firing you are in for a treat. We have managed to secure the services of Jan Hite an experienced sculptor and ceramicist, who on the first day will guide us in producing up to three small sculptures in clay. There will then be a hiatus of three weeks to allow the clay to dry and a bisque firing to be made: followed by a day at Jan’s studio in Haslemere for glazing and the raku firing.

Raku is a Japanese style of pottery dating back to the 1580s; the practice is characterised by the removal of a clay object from the kiln at the height

Alresford Rugby Football Club News

Although April sees the end of senior sides’ league fixtures, we have a visit from Honiton RFC for a friendly, tour fixture on 16th April (note 1.00 pm kick-off ), which coincides with Easter 7s at Winchester RFC, and our own end-of-season tour to Exmouth on the weekend of 29th April.

The minis will continue to meet on Sunday mornings until their last session of the season on 24th April.

In mid-March, Alresford’s 1st XV is midtable in the Hampshire Premier league with 9 wins from 19 fixtures so far, our

36

of the firing, putting it into a reducing atmosphere and causing it to cool very rapidly and the glaze to shrink: this can result in dramatic and often unexpected effects. Originally created for the tea ceremony, Raku ware is most commonly found in the form of tea bowls, but equally well, it can be used to enhance the surface of sculptures with exciting effects.

What you learn Production of up to 3 sculptural objects in clay on the first day, followed by the Raku firing. Cost: Members £80 to include materials for the 2-day course. Nonmembers £100. Light refreshments are provided, bring your own lunch. Payment: We require full payment in advance to secure a place. Cheque made out to Wessex Sculptors (your surname and “WS015” on the back) and send to Anne Lain 1 Bramble Hill, Alresford, SO24 9JY best season ever! The second XV has had mixed success notwithstanding bags of enthusiasm and support for the 1sts. With the usual injury toll and non-availability, this season has also seen disruption due to positive Covid tests. This has undoubtedly impacted team cohesion and selection, but I’m incredibly proud of how our senior players have repeatedly stepped up and fulfilled fixtures whenever possible. The only blot on this season has been the number of disciplinary actions taken by rugby referees against ARFC players and spectators. ARFC, in common with all rugby institutions, will not tolerate this sort of behaviour as our game is underpinned by respect for officials at all levels of the game, from minis to international fixtures.

On the non-playing front, ARFC will be hosting a lunch at The Arlebury on 2nd April and an Awards Dinner at the same venue on 23rd April. We also intend to have a Black-Tie Dinner during the summer to celebrate ARFC’s 30th season; more information to follow on this once a venue and date is finalised. ARFC will have a stand at the Watercress Festival in

Direct bank transfer: Account name: Wessex sculptors. Sort code: 309317 A/c No 44485768 Ref: Your surname (WS015). Only 10 places are available for this 2 day workshop. This is an exciting opportunity, and we expect the workshop to fill up quickly. so please check availability by email or phone 07785 715985 before payment. Payment confirms your place. Reimbursement on cancellation less than a week before the workshop will only be made if we can fill your place.

For further information and to check availability contact: Anne Lain 07785 715985 anne.lain627@gmail.com Giles Summerhays Wessexworkshops@summerhays.co.uk

May and are happy to marshal car parking if required by the organising committee.

We’ll also have a stand at the Alresford Show in September and will assist the Pigs in parking vehicles. We have also offered to help the NATC in car parking at the “Picnic in the Park” event to celebrate Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee on Saturday 4th June. ARFC hope to see many of our valued sponsors, spectators and players at these events.

During the Spring and Summer, ARFC is planning and will fund, several enhancements to its pitches and associated pathways and storage facilities, all of which require approval from our landlord, NATC. Finally, on a very sad note, we have just had the news that one of ARFC’s founding groups, Robin Howard passed away in early March. Robin’s caustic wit, enthusiasm for the game and generosity was always a delight at the pitch-side or as the landlord of the Horse and Groom, ARFC’s first social home.

John Weston Chairman ARFC

RETAIL / CULTURE

POLAR EXCHANGE SKIWEAR & ACCESSORIES FOR ALL AGES

WE NEED YOUR

Extensive choice. An exciting collection of performance ski kit and cold weather wear for every age.

New location. Our fabulous showroom outside Alresford is the best way to try a variety of styles & sizes before you buy. Open by appointment from October to Easter, please email us to book a slot or make an enquiry.

Same great service. Seasoned skiers ourselves, we offer buyers guidance in our showroom and at selected school events.

Can you sign?

If so the Alresford Watercress Festival would love to hear from you.

We are looking for someone profficient in sign language to enhance our visitor experience of our cookery demonstrations and the Watercress Eating 13–23 APR @ 7.30PM Competition on the main stage.

Would you like to spend a day or even a few hours with us on Sunday May 15th 2022?

email: skiwear@polarexchange.co.uk www.polarexchange.co.uk | 07783 538389 | 07767 238874

If so please contact Gill at gill.mick-grant@tiscali.co.uk 13–23 APR @ 7.30PM

Adapted by Sarah Harvey

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13–23- ALSO APR @ 7.30PM WED 13 APR - SAT 23 APR @ 7.30PM SUN 17 APR @2.30PM

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THE SPRING HAMPSHIRE ART FAIR 23RD APRIL – 14TH MAY 11.00AM – 5.00PM

THE OLD GRAIN STORE WESTOVER FARM, GOODWORTH CLATFORD NR STOCKBRIDGE SP11 7LF 07717 833999 WWW.NADIAWATERFIELDFINEART.COM

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Nadia Waterfield Fine Art is opening its doors to its most exciting, eclectic art show yet – The Spring Hampshire Art Fair from 23rd April to 14th May. With over 250 original contemporary paintings, sculptures and ceramics from artists new to the gallery, alongside more established exhibitors, there’s something for all tastes and pockets.

This stunning, spacious gallery, just outside Stockbridge, houses a wonderfully diverse range of work from over 60 carefully selected artists from the UK and abroad, representing a wide variety of styles, genre and media. The gallery itself is comfortable and relaxing with stylish rugs, lamps, tables and chairs. There’s plenty of parking and lovely dog walks making this a magical venue in which to enjoy some truly memorable art.

Please get in touch for private consultations too – we will bring suitable artwork to you and offer expert advice on what best suits your space. We are happy to leave paintings with you to decide if they ‘fit’. We also take interest-free payments over 10 months.

All artworks can be viewed and purchased online www.nadiawaterfieldfineart.com

39

COMMUNITY / PROFESSIONAL

Trees bring a new lease of life to the South Downs As the warmth of spring sunshine bathes the South Downs, thousands of new life-giving trees are sprouting up from the soil.

It has been a busy few months because well over 11,000 trees have been planted across the region – on top of 10,000 trees planted during the previous winter.

Now the inspiring initiative, called “Trees for The Downs”, is putting out the call for new applications for even more tree planting in 2022. Applications are welcome from landowners, farmers, parish and town councils, schools and community groups.

The call-out comes after a tremendous public response to the Trees for the Downs campaign, which launched three years ago.

So far, almost £200,000 has been raised by the South Downs National Park Trust, the official independent charity for the National Park, which has set its sights on raising £260,000 to be able to plant 100,000 trees in total.

The tree planting is restoring those lost to pests and diseases, including Ash Dieback and Dutch Elm Disease, as well as creating new habitat for wildlife and amenity value for local communities.

The trees will be a mixture of disease-resistant elm trees and native species, such as oak and black poplar. Sites include schools, farms, recreation grounds and historic parks.

The Trust is working with the National Park Authority’s woodlands team to deliver the project.

Sonia Lorenzo Martín, Woodlands Lead for the National Park Authority, said: “We’ve worked really hard with partners this winter to plant all these new trees and are excited to plant even more later this year.

“Trees are amazing and such an important part of the South Downs landscape, which has more woodland by area than any other National Park in England and Wales. They give us clean air to breathe and are the life support for so many animals and other plants.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to be part of nature recovery, restoring habitat that has been lost, as well as creating new habitat for nature to flourish. We’re looking forward to seeing the new applications that come forward.”

Thirty sites across Hampshire, West Sussex and East Sussex have been receiving trees for planting over the past few months. Here are some of the highlights: A hundred trees were planted at Longmoor Range and Training

40

Area, near Liss, as part of a joint initiative with Soroptimist International, a global women’s organisation celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2021. Tree planting mirrors the project of 1921 when the organisation began in Oakland, California, and women were successful in protecting redwood trees at that time. Trees were provided from the National Park Trust for the new Tercentenary Wood at Penns Place, Petersfield. All pupils and staff at Churcher’s College planted a tree to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and to commemorate the school’s 300-year anniversary by leaving a lasting legacy for the future. Five elms, seven oak trees and two field maple trees were provided by the Trust and dedicated to the Queen’s Green Canopy in the grounds of Glyndebourne Opera House. The Lord-Lieutenant of East Sussex, Andrew Blackman, planted one of the disease-resistant elms.

More than 1,500 trees were planted by volunteers at Wild Heart Hill, near Worthing. Elms have been provided for the community at East Dean, near Chichester, to create a new avenue of elms, replacing one that was lost many years ago.

To find out more about making an application for Trees for the Downs, visit www.southdownstrust.org.uk/trees-for-the-downs/ The deadline for applications is 15 May and the trees will be planted between December 2022 and February next year.

The tree planting has been made possible thanks to generous donations from the public, as well as support from Aspinal of London, Cinven, Jude’s – a carbon negative B Corp, Nyetimber and South East Water.

PROFESSIONAL

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

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PROFESSIONAL

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Load of logs - £70 per truck load

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PRIVATE HIRE AIRPORT TRANSFERS OTHER JOURNEYS

Andrew Bevis

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

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

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

WEBSITE DESIGN & MANAGEMENT A beautiful and functional website can increase sales and boost enquiries and doesn't have to cost the earth! Our basic web design packages start at £1600*.

At Forum Media and Design we offer a complete website design and management service including domain registration and hosting. We have many happy clients throughout Hampshire and the home counties, visit our website to see our latest projects.

All of our websites are bespoke built to work on all devices, including tablets and mobile phones.Security and speed are a priority and our software allows clients simple and effective control of their website content. *price indicated is based upon a website of up to 6 pages, with 1 years website hosting included

DESIGN & PRINT Our team at Forum Media & Design have over 30 years experience in design and print. If it is a simple business card you are seeking or corporate branding we can offer competitive design rates. We have a large portfolio of happy customers throughout Hampshire and the home counties, for more information visit our website.

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COMMUNITY Alresford Surgery News

Reminder Please continue to wear a face mask when attending our surgeries, remembering also to wash your hands, and make space: hands, face, space. This is so we can continue to protect our most vulnerable patients, as well as each other, thank you.

Retirements After a combined total of fifty-six years, Ann Lowman and Susie Wright will be retiring from the Practice in May of this year.

Recruitment will be underway over the coming weeks. We wish them both well in their retirement.

Welcome to new staff We offered a warm welcome to our new Care Co-Ordinator Sarah King who will be working full time with us supporting & leading our Reception team. We have also been lucky enough to recruit two new Receptionists to our team who started training with us in February & March.

Claire & Beth will be working alongside our already well established reception team.

Good Friday & Easter Monday closure Please make sure you have sufficient supplies of your usual medications to last over the bank holiday period which you can order in a number of ways; • In person at the surgery • By post • Via the NHS APP or Patient Access The surgery will be closed on Friday 15 April and Monday 18 April. If you need urgent medical care you can access the Out of Hours service for advice, a face to face appointment or, if it is necessary, a home visit & the number to call is 111.

The Alresford Surgery Station Road, Alresford Hampshire, SO24 9JL Telephone: 01962 732345 www.alresfordsurgery.co.uk

44

Jackie’s County Corner for April

I was pleased and humbled to be a part of the ‘Stand With Ukraine Vigil’ arranged with City of Sanctuary, Southampton and Winchester Visitors Group (who support refugees day to day) and Winchester City Council on Monday 1st March at Abbey Gardens. We notified the public through social media and despite the terribly wet weather, between 300-400 people attended to stand with the Ukrainian people.

Please make donations via www.dec.org.uk which work with many other charities too.

There are links to more ways to help on www. hants.gov.uk . The storms of late February brought home the fragility of our services.

This month, I am looking especially at the services that we need for our education, homes and businesses to function.

Emergency planning I met with HCC regarding their emergency planning when trees come down, blocking roads. It was an unprecedented event, but I’d really like to see HCC man the phones at the weekend instead of having to make a call to 101 when we know there is a weather event on the way. The best way to report a fallen tree remains online (plus picture if you can) or email roads@hants.gov.uk. In the light of the effects of the storms, will you be amending/ updating your personal emergency plan? I got the chance to speak to some of the tree surgeons and electricians. They deserve our thanks for working in such dreadful conditions.

Electricity many of you endured power cuts in the recent Dudley, Eunice and Franklin storms.

Some residents are trying to beat electrical dependency by installing Solar Panels and Backup batteries, using an HCC sponsored scheme last year. With just 25 home projects completed, and 271 cancelled out of over 1500 requests, it is clear that the supply chain isn’t as resilient as hoped. Many people have paid significant deposits. I have raised this with the Leader, Cllr Mans, so if you know

someone who committed to this scheme, please ask them to contact me. Thank you.

The Community Fibre Partnership Organisers and I were disappointed that the Gigabit broadband meeting with BDUK and Openreach was postponed until April: another delay to our hopes for faster service.

I‘ll report more in May. Residents needing help Residents who need help with fuel food or heating should contact their children’s school, WCC (01962 840222) or Citizens Advice (0808 2787861) for assistance. Grants can be given to families or any adult over 60.

The County Council is cutting the street light levels again by 65% This time, it is all through the evening, not just late at night. But they can set higher light levels according to the area, so if you think this will affect your safety, please let me know, and we’ll make a plea for your journey to home or work to be better lit.

If you have a site on which you’d like HCC to plant a tree Please search ‘tree planting on www.hants. gov.uk or go to https://hants.gov.uk/ transport/roadmaintenance/roadproblems/ tree-planting Good news: Hampshire’s new Local Transport Plan LTP4 Is out for a twelve-week consultation now. It is a large document, but with good ambitions and lots of detail, and worth reading. Go to www.hants.gov.uk & search ‘LTP4’ .

Cart and Horses Another month, another accident as commuting traffic grows again. The traffic engineers made changes to speed, light levels and added CCTV following the fatality and subsequent accidents pre lockdown. HCC argue that the junction has been safer since then. I disagree that this is a typical year- the traffic has been so much quieter. I have seen the CCTV footage of two recent accidents: it is distressing to watch, and a pattern is emerging. I have asked for consideration of stop signs as a temporary measure until Junction 9 is complete, but I believe we need to show the strength of opinion to National Highways, as they finalise their road scheme for junction 9, right up to the Cart & Horses.

I have shared a petition on Facebook, and it is on my website too. www.winld.org.uk/ SafeCH Cllr. Jackie Porter. www.jackieporter.co.uk tel/text: 07973 696085 jackie.porter@hants. gov.uk twitter:@JackieLibDem

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45

ENTERTAINMENT

Alresford Alresford Brocante Brocante Alresford Alresford Brocante Alresford Alresford AlresfordBrocante Brocante Brocante Brocante

2n dY ea r

h 4t AR YE

Antiques Antiques | |Vintage Vintage | |Flea Flea Market Market Antiques | | Market Antiques Antiques Antiques |||Vintage Vintage |Vintage Vintage ||Flea Flea |Flea Flea Market Market Market Antiques Vintage Market Alresford Brocante is back on 2nd May

Alresford Alresford Brocante Brocante Alresford Brocante Alresford Brocante Alresford Alresford Brocante Brocante Alresford Alresford Alresford Brocante Brocante Brocante Alresford Brocante Alresford Alresford Alresford Brocante Brocante Brocante Antiques Antiques | | Vintage Vintage | |Flea Flea Market Market Antiques | Vintage | Flea Market

Antiques Antiques |Vintage Vintage Vintage |Flea Flea Market Market Antiques Antiques Antiques ||||Vintage |Vintage Vintage ||||Flea |Flea Flea Market Market Market Antiques Market Antiques Market Antiques Antiques Antiques |||Vintage Vintage |Vintage Vintage ||Flea Flea |Flea Flea Market Market Market Antiques Vintage Market

This very popular market held on the bank holiday Monday makes Sunday 27thMonday September 2020 Bank Bank Holiday Holiday Monday Monday 6th 6th May May &vibrant & Holiday 6th May a welcome Bank return to Alresford . The market will be& as Bank Bank Bank Holiday Holiday Holiday Monday Monday Monday 6th 6th 6th May May May & && Broad Street, Alresford SO24 9AQ | 9.30 3.30pm Sunday Sunday 15th 15th September September as before on Bank Holiday Monday 2nd May in Broad Street, Sunday 15th September Sunday Sunday 15th 15th 15th September September September Alresford, SO24Sunday 9AQ from 9.30am - 3.30pm.

Broad Broad Street, Street, Alresford Alresford SO24 SO24 9AQ 9AQ 9.30am | 9.30am 3.30pm - 3.30pm Broad Street, Alresford SO24 9AQ ||||9.30am -- --3.30pm Broad Broad Broad Street, Street, Street, Alresford Alresford Alresford SO24 SO24 SO24 9AQ 9AQ 9AQ 9.30am 9.30am | 9.30am 3.30pm 3.30pm - 3.30pm

The market offers aAntique French-style Brocanteacvr_events flea market with a & Art Fairs @ArtDesignFairs @ArtDesignFairs Antique Antique & Arts & Arts Fair Fair mixture of Antiques, Collectables, Curios, Vintage @ArtDesignFairs Retro, Bric-aAntique & Arts Fair @ArtDesignFairs @ArtDesignFairs @ArtDesignFairs Antique Antique Antique &&Arts Arts & Arts Fair FairFair brac, Vinyl records and those ‘must-have’ quirky finds from traders, 07514 680872 8045 3465 07514 07514 680872 680872 ||023 023 |023 023 8045 8045 3465 3465 07514 680872 | 8045 3465 enthusiasts as well as07514 people just wanting to clear out their garages 07514 07514 680872 680872 680872 | | 023 023 | 023 8045 8045 8045 3465 3465 3465 jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com www.acvrevents.co.uk jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com and lofts - why not come and join us in Broad Street (ring for jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com www.acvrevents.co.uk www.acvrevents.co.uk www.acvrevents.co.uk booking details). www.acvrevents.co.uk www.acvrevents.co.uk www.acvrevents.co.uk

Bank Holiday Monday 2nd May 2022 Sunday 26th September 2021 Bank Bank Holiday Holiday Monday Monday 6th 6th May May && Bank Holiday Monday 6th May & Sunday 26th September 2021 and Sunday 25th September 2022 Bank Bank Holiday Holiday Monday Monday 6th 6th May May Bank Bank Bank Holiday Holiday Holiday Monday Monday Monday 6th 6th 6th May May May && &&&& Bank Holiday Monday May Broad Street, Alresford SO24 9AQ |6th 9.30 -May 3.30pm Bank Bank Bank Holiday Holiday Holiday Monday Monday Monday 6th 6th 6th May May && & Sunday Sunday 15th 15th September September 15th September BroadSunday Street, Alresford SO24 9AQ | 9.30 3.30pm Sunday Sunday 15th 15th September September Sunday Sunday Sunday 15th 15th 15th September September September Sunday 15th September Also Bishop's Waltham High Street on the 10th October Sunday Sunday Sunday 15th 15th 15th September September September Broad Broad Street, Street, Alresford Alresford SO24 SO24 9AQ 9AQ |the 9.30am |10th 9.30am 3.30pm - 3.30pm Also Bishop's Waltham High Street on 2022 Also Bishop's Waltham High Street the 10thJuly October Broad Street, Alresford SO24 9AQ |on 9.30am - -3.30pm

Broad Broad Street, Street, Alresford Alresford SO24 SO24 9AQ 9AQ |9.30am |9.30am 9.30am -3.30pm -3.30pm 3.30pm Broad Broad Broad Street, Street, Street, Alresford Alresford Alresford SO24 SO24 SO24 9AQ 9AQ 9AQ |||9.30am 9.30am |9.30am - --3.30pm -3.30pm Broad Street, Alresford SO24 9AQ Broad Broad Broad Street, Street, Street, Alresford Alresford Alresford SO24 SO24 9AQ 9AQ 9AQ ||acvr_events 9.30am 9.30am | 9.30am - -3.30pm 3.30pm 3.30pm - 3.30pm Antique & ArtSO24 Fairs

A fun day out for all the family with street food and music, many of the restaurants and cafes, as well as some of the shops will be open.

Free entry. Local general parking.

@ArtDesignFairs @ArtDesignFairs Antique Antique Arts &&Arts FairFairs Fair Antique Art acvr_events @ArtDesignFairs Antique &&Arts Fair @ArtDesignFairs @ArtDesignFairs Antique Antique &Arts &Arts Arts Fair Fair @ArtDesignFairs @ArtDesignFairs @ArtDesignFairs Antique Antique Antique && &Arts Arts &Arts Fair Fair Fair @ArtDesignFairs Antique Fair 07514 680872@ArtDesignFairs @ArtDesignFairs @ArtDesignFairs Antique Antique Antique & & Arts Arts & Arts Fair Fair Fair 07514 07514 680872 680872 023 | 023 8045 8045 3465 3465 07514 680872 ||023 8045 3465 07514 680872 07514 07514 680872 680872 |023 |023 023 8045 8045 3465 3465 07514 07514 07514 680872 680872 680872 |||023 023 |023 8045 8045 8045 3465 3465 3465 jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com 07514 680872 8045 3465 www.acvrevents.co.uk jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com 07514 07514 07514 680872 680872 680872 ||023 023 | 023 8045 8045 8045 3465 3465 3465 jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com www.acvrevents.co.uk www.acvrevents.co.uk www.acvrevents.co.uk jackieedwardsmarketing@gmail.com

Supported by www.towntrust.org.uk

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THE OLD ALRESFORD DRAMATIC SOCIETY (TOADS)

presents…

DER R U M R O F L AeRatSreAmystery E H E R S S E R D A th Do you want to play Cricket this Summer?

Easton & Martyr Worthy Cricket Club invites cricket players of all abilities to come and join us.

• 3 x Senior Teams playing in the Hampshire Cricket League • Juniors Under 9, 11, 13 and 15 - Boys & Girls Teams • All Stars Under 7s • Ladies Social Team

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Wednesday 18th – Saturday 21st May

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Seniors: seb.stannard@btinternet.com Seniors: markdickety@hotmail.co.uk Boys and Girls: juniors@emwcc.com Ladies: charliegloyn@icloud.com

7.30pm

CHRISTY HALL, OLD ALRESFORD

TICKETS

Website: www.emwcc.com Club Contacts:

R

BO

&S

BUY TICKETS

ONLY

E BL E E

Seniors training on Thursday evenings Seniors matches on Saturday afternoons Boys practise on Monday evenings Boys matches on Sunday mornings Girls practise and matches on Wednesday evenings All Under 9s practise on Friday evenings All Stars TBC Ladies practise on Tuesday evenings

OK I NG

F

NACK S AVAIL

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ticketsource.co.uk/toads 07944 590 605 boxoffice@oa-toads.org.uk

The Old Alresford Dramatic Society

48

@TOADStweets www.oa-toads.org.uk

70th ANNIVERSARY

M arch!

Jubilee Picnic in the Park WATCH LIVE COVERAGE OF THE DAY INCLUDING THE CONCERT FROM BUCKINGHAM PALACE

BIG SCREEN

SATURDAY 4 JUNE Arlebury Park, Alresford

FREE ENTRY – 2PM ‘TIL LATE Fete with activities, competitions, music, refreshments and entertainment Join friends and family to celebrate this amazing milestone Find more information at our Facebook page ‘Alresford’s Jubilee Picnic in the Park’ Organised by Coordinating Alresford (Rotary, Pigs, New Leaf, Chamber of Commerce and New Alresford Town Council)

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COMMUNITY

New Alresford Town Council element of Big Equipment Play, with equipment to be made from timber and natural stone.

The results of the consultation also showed that our anticipated budget wasn’t sufficient to achieve what residents wanted.

Since then, it has taken time to get the funds in place. We are hugely grateful to Alresford Pigs, Alresford Rotary and Alresford Youth Association who have also contributed funding for this project.

New Playground at Stratton Bates

The Council are delighted to share that the eagerly awaited new playground at Stratton Bates, will begin on 6th June 2022. If all goes according to plan, the playground will be completed for the Summer Holidays.

The playground has been designed and will be installed by Eibe, who won our playground tender process, basing their design on our extensive public consultation. The new playground will be larger in size and less flat and will incorporate a wide range of natural themed equipment and surfacing. New equipment has been chosen to be accessible to different ages and abilities from toddlers upwards, to include users with physical and other disabilities.

The playground will include climbers, tube and double slides, tunnel, climbing wall, monkey bars, sunken trampoline, play dens, mini train, swings, shelter, fallen logs and activity boards.

We hope you love it.

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Public consultation for the New Playground

Several years ago the Council identified the need to redevelop Stratton Bates playground the largest playground in New Alresford - where much of the existing equipment has gone beyond its expected lifespan.

The Council began a large-scale public consultation involving interactive workshops with children at Sun Hill Infants and Junior School, Perins, residents of adjoining Makin’s Court and residents on neighbouring roads.

The results showed the type of equipment and spaces children and residents wanted to see in a new playground. From this, three design scenarios were prepared by Feria Design and presented at a public exhibition in September 2020 attended by over 200 people. The scenarios were “Wild Adventure Play”, “Big Equipment Play” and “Colourful Fun Play”. These three scenarios were voted upon.

Votes from the public exhibition, showed a clear preference for Wild Adventure Play with some

Our thanks to the children from Sun Hill Infants and Juniors, students from Perins and all other residents who took the time to attend our consultation sessions or send in feedback. We hope you agree the playground is worth the wait.

committeeclerk@newalresfordtc.gov.uk or call 01962 732079.

Town Council Assembly Meeting 7th March

Many thanks to all residents who attended the Town Assembly, where the Council gave a resume of the work undertaken during 2021.

Special thanks to those who spoke on behalf of groups that were awarded grants and to Genevieve Jacobs from Troy Planning and Design who gave an informative presentation about the New Alresford Neighbourhood Plan. This is a project at the infancy stage.

Genevieve explained that it is an important document where the community can express their aspirations for the town and help bring about positive planning for the future.

Walking & Exploring New Alresford

Floral displays

Spring is on its way and all ordered hanging baskets are expected to be delivered and installed in the town centre by the second week of May. Would you or your business like to sponsor an up-the-pole display? The council organises displays on a selection of the town centre lighting columns and the railings on West Street.

The cost is £80. If you take part, your name or business will be advertised in The Forum and on our website. Please contact

In addition to the Alresford Millennium & Arle Valley Trail, the council has published a more comprehensive Walking & Exploring guide booklet. It lists a range of eight different walk routes over a variety of distances, with detailed route notes. If you feel even more adventurous, there is a list of ten long distance walks over 25 miles that pass through or near Alresford. Guides can be picked up at the Tourist Information telephone box in West Street, Watercress Line, Oxley’s Bookshop and the Council offices.

The Avenue, New Alresford, SO24 9EP - 01962 732079 www.newalresford-tc.gov.uk

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RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Earl Grey and Clementine Easter Hot Cross Bun Trifle One of my favorite Easter treats, Michelin chef Heston Blumethal’s Earl Grey and clementine hot cross buns, delicious toasted and topped with lashings of butter. Bursting with the same flavour combo of tangy clementines and smoky bergamot from the tea, and with sweet Madeira to add a touch of class, my ultimate Easter trifle is both delicious and sophisticated and is the perfect way to end your holiday feast.

For the trifle

A glass footed trifle bowl is best showing off all of the yummy layers of buns, fruit, custard, curd and cream.

Ingredients

100ml boiling water 3 Earl Grey teabags 100ml of sweet Madeira wine 5 hot cross buns gently toasted and torn roughly into one inch cubes 50g blanched, roasted and roughly chopped 600ml double cream 500ml ready-made custard

For the candied clementines

200gms caster sugar 2 clementines ( make sure the skins are tight and the fruit fresh) halved and cut into thin rounds.

For the clementine and lemon curd 130gms unsalted butter cut into cubes Grated zest and juice of three clementines Grated zest and juice of two small lemons 120gms caster sugar 1 medium free range egg, plus two yolks.

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Method

1 Infuse the tea bags in the boiling water and add the Madeira. Leave to infuse for one hour. Make the candied oranges. This is easier to do than you might think and the result is an intense syrupy flavoured clementine for the trifle and the topping. Pour 300ml water into a pan with the caster sugar and bring to the boil. Add the clementine slices, then turn down to a medium heat and simmer for 50 minutes until softened and syrupy. Leave to cool.

2 Make the fruit curd. Heat 30g of the butter until bubbling, golden and smelling nutty. Remove from the heat, quickly adding the rest of the butter with the clementine and lemon juice and sugar. Whisk until smooth.

Add the egg and the yolks and beat well. Return the pan to low heat and whisk continuously for ten minutes until you have a thick, creamy curd. Stir in the zests and leave to cool.

3 Layering the trifle…..this is the fun part! Remove the tea bags from the Madeira and water and discard. Add the syrup from the candied clementines, leaving a little remaining with the fruit. Put the buns in the base of the trifle dish spooning over all the infused liquid. Arrange over top most of the clementine slices. Meanwhile using either electric mixer or balloon whisk, whip the cream to soft holding peaks. Layer the curd over the buns and clementines and then top with the custard and finally the cream. Sprinkle the top with the toasted hazlenuts and the remaining clementine slices with the syrup.

Two Janes Catering You can see us on Facebook.com/twojanescatering

FOOD & DRINK / HOME

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MICHAEL J SLY Plumbing and Heating

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cal installation service • Emergency lighting • Electrical installations

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

Plumbing and Heating Complete Heating Systems High Efficiency Boiler and System Upgrades Power Flush and System Treatments Gas Boiler Service Water Softeners

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53

COMMUNITY Winchester City Councillor Fiona Isaacs Report Supporting Our Community

Homes For Ukraine Many residents have contacted me about this, if you would like to find out more information please see the link below.

A bespoke scheme offered by the UK government will offer a route to those who want to come to the UK, who have someone here willing to provide them with a home.

It will enable individuals, charities, community groups and businesses to volunteer accommodation and provide a route to safety for Ukrainians and their immediate family members that have been forced to escape their homeland.

People arriving under this scheme will be able to: • Live and work in the UK for up to three years

Winchester District Citizens Advice Lesley Rose, Advice Services Manager for Citizens Advice Winchester District gives advice on what you’re entitled to if an event is cancelled.

I love live music and now that restrictions have lifted, I’m keen to start going to events again. I’ve booked tickets for some gigs over the next few months, but I’m still a little worried. I can’t quite believe things are fully back to normal. What will happen if restrictions come back in?

It’s understandable to be feeling apprehensive when there’s been so much change, and knowing your rights will help

54

• Have access to healthcare, benefits, employment support, education, and English language tuition If you have a named person who you wish to sponsor you should get in contact with them directly and prepare to fill in a visa application with all their details and yours.

The visa application will go live on Friday 18 March. If you don’t know anyone who you wish to sponsor you may wish to get in touch with charities, faith groups or local community organisations who are starting to make connections between individuals. https://homesforukraine.campaign.gov.uk Fly Tipping in residential car parks This month I have received several complaints about burning and fly tipping in public open residential car parking areas. I have raised with officers within Winchester City Council and I am pleased to report that the situation has now been resolved.

Help with Heating costs Support is being offered to some households from the government to help with rising energy costs. A £150 rebate on your council tax for those in council tax bands A-D will be available. You can apply through the council tax section at Winchester City Council (WCC).

Bishop’s Sutton Footpath The feasibility study has now been completed, and we hope to establish the next

you deal with anything unexpected. If you’ve got tickets to an event that goes ahead, but you change your mind about going or realise you’re no longer able to go, you have no legal right to a refund.

However, if the event is cancelled, your right to a refund will depend on how you bought the ticket. If you booked through an official seller and the organiser cancels, moves, reschedules, or makes the event behind closed doors, you should get a refund. This is true even if it’s cancelled due to a government ban on large events. If this happens, contact the official seller to find out how you can get a refund.

If you bought your ticket from a ticketreselling website, your refund will depend on the site's terms and conditions. If you’re worried about the event being cancelled, it’s a good idea to look at the terms and conditions before booking. If you bought from a private seller, unfortunately, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to recover your money, even if the event

steps and options once this report has been released.

Why consultation is important Pre-planning has now been closed on The Dean car park in Alresford, I find it staggering that this has happened without meaningful input into the design from key stakeholders. The Dean master plan in 2016 clearly highlighted that design required careful consultation due to the economic impact and placement in a conservation area.

Finally, this development is underway but we have missed a golden opportunity on reviewing its impact on our town. Visitors across the ward rely on being able to park in order to shop, our businesses depend on there being ample parking available. This is the first specifically designed town centre car park, so it would have been useful for the residents and businesses to have had more of a say on the proposals. However, that being said, the Town desperately needs this car park and I strongly support the application.

A consultation process will take place, but obviously with less focus on changes, hopefully, we will finally get this resolved.

I remain disappointed by the level of consultation from Winchester City Council on this matter.

Please contact me on Email - fisaacs@winchester.gov.uk Telephone - 01962 808072

is cancelled or rescheduled. We recommend contacting the seller to see what they can do.

Ahead of any events, you’ve booked, keep checking the information from the official seller or organiser to make sure you know straight away about any updates, like changes to the date or cancellations. Another thing to be aware of is that scammers exploit these situations for their own benefit.

If your event is cancelled and anyone whether it’s a person or a company - offers their services to try to recover money on your behalf, be suspicious. Make sure that you're aware of the signs of a potential scam and always be on the lookout.

If you need more information on how to get a refund, take a look at the Citizens Advice website (www.citizensadvice.org.uk) If you’d like to speak to a local adviser at Citizens Advice Winchester District, you can call us for free on 0808 278 7861

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Bespoke Garage Door Solutions We supply and install all leading manufacturers of garage doors and in a wide selection of styles

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REFURBISHMENT • INTERIOR RECONSTRUCTION KITCHENS & BATHROOMS • GENERAL BUILDING Local, experienced, and here to help you.

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Hardwood gates Gate automation Intercom systems Vehicle barriers

Barnes & Liddiard Electrical Contractors Limited All aspects of electrical work undertaken Fully compliant to part ‘P’ of the building regulations

Domestic Commercial Industrial Garden Lighting

Tel: 01962 733272 57

COMMUNITY

Winchester City Councillors Report Council Tax

Winchester City Councils Increase lower than other councils.

After a late night meeting it was agreed to increase the Winchester City Council precept by £3.95 per year for a Band D property. We really understand the pressures families are feeling when it comes to dealing with the cost of living crisis and have fought hard to keep our council tax down; only 2 other Hampshire Councils have smaller increases! Hampshire County Council’s rise is £40.41 per year and the Police and Crime budget will increase by £10 per year.

Importantly, we’ve increased the financial support available to those struggling most with paying their council tax and have provided a concessionary brown bin scheme. The new budget will be challenging with rising costs hitting the council too.

Broadband on Life Support

Families, businesses and homeworkers struggle with appalling broadband speeds across our ward, some as low as 2 Mbps. Over the last few years a number of community volunteers have grouped together in Alresford and the surrounding villages hoping to benefit from the Government’s Rural Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme, part of making Britain digital. Unfortunately, after 18 months of work all but one scheme has been rejected by the Government, leaving residents in limbo and with serious efficiency implications for rural businesses, home workers, etc. A recent scrutiny meeting was cancelled by Hampshire County Council. This is another example of non-delivery by the Government of a flagship policy. We will keep raising this issue at all levels.

Help with Energy Costs - £150

Houses falling within council tax Band A-D are to receive a £150 rebate to cover the ever-increasing cost of gas and electricity.

Regrettably, Winchester City Council were prevented from applying this rebate directly to your council tax bills, which would have been the most cost-effective solution. Therefore, our staff are having to create a special payment run. Payments will be made after the first council tax payment is received.

Local Energy Generation

With the war in Ukraine, we are starting to think more about community energy generation projects. Can we use the power of water, what about more solar panels on rooftops and can we think creatively about our sewage treatment plants as a source of energy?

Margot has written to the Chairman of Southern Water about such a scheme for the Alresford pumping station. It’s disappointing that the Hampshire County Council group buying scheme for solar panels hasn’t been a success. We need to keep pursuing alternative energy sources to diversify and reduce our reliance on hostile countries for energy. If you're interested in joining the conversation then contact us at aiv@winld.org.uk

by 1 degree C across Europe would save about 10bn cubic metres of gas within a year; a useful saving on total European imports of Russian gas of 155bn cubic metres.

Cross-Party Agreement For Steps To Support AsylumSeekers & Refugees In Winchester District

Given the latest refugee crisis occurring in mainland Europe, we are proud that there was unanimous, cross-party support at Winchester City Council for our motion to make the Winchester District a more welcoming place to refugees and people seeking asylum; This means being proactive and taking practical steps, in dialogue with local and national organisations supporting refugees and people seeking asylum, to welcome and integrate all people into our communities, activities and culture; and to challenge anti-refugee and anti-migrant attitudes wherever they are found, To facilitate making Winchester District a place of sanctuary to those fleeing persecution and violence, the city council has allocated a £25,000 budget to help establish the ‘City of Sanctuary’ principles.

Many of you have expressed a desire to host Ukrainian refugees and provide support in other ways. At the time, of writing we are seeking the best understanding of how we can support local community groups and individuals in this endeavour. Councils will have an important role to play in helping settle those fleeing war and persecution who manage to make it to the UK.

Cart and Horses Junction

A safer junction is essential. Accidents are once again on the rise now that people are using their cars more. So many local people tell us that the junction is confusing and dangerous. In 2014 Jackie Porter and local residents secured some important changes including reducing the speed limit on the A33. But Hampshire County Council (HCC) have since dragged their feet on making more substantial changes, waiting for Highways England to include the junction as part of the J9 M3 upgrade. This is not going to happen. All your Lib Dem councillors are calling again on HCC to make the necessary changes quickly to protect our residents from this dangerous road layout. You can join our campaign here www.winld.org.uk/safech

Pot Holes

Residents frequently bring up the state of the roads and footways in the ward. Road maintenance is a Hampshire County Council responsibility but we are happy to keep flagging up the worst potholes that could cause vehicle damage and injury to pedestrians and cyclists. To report potholes yourself, try the excellent FixMyStreet app (you can use the app to report a long list of other problems including flytipping, graffiti, broken pavements/footpaths, etc. photos of the problem can be uploaded).

This sinkhole in the footpath at the bottom of The Dean has been reported by so many people since April 2021 that you would expect it to have been fixed by now. It is at least 6” wide and 6” deep - see my ruler - and it’s eroded underneath. Why is it so difficult to mend?

Saving Energy- Dial Down for Ukraine

The International Energy Agency suggests that “Europeans should turn down their thermostats by a degree to save on gas and reduce dependency on Russian imports, which Russia is wielding as a weapon in the Ukraine war”.

Although the UK is less reliant on Russian gas imports than some European countries, every little helps. Adjusting home thermostats

58

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Margot Power 01962 734167

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Deal 1

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Deal 2

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

Here’s a selection of frequently asked questions especially for you sceptics (you know who you are).

1. When you say ‘carpet’ what do you mean? We mean average size areas, say 10x12ft ish. But we don’t quibble if the areas are a little larger - it’s all done on fairness really. 2. Do you move furniture?

Our pricing policy reflects the time it takes to clean working around furniture, rather than moving it. any three carpets That said, we are Have for example, happy to move your three piece suite backwards and forwards cleaning under it and replacing it back into piece position. What we don’t price into the job at these discount prices is and your three moving large pieces of furniture like bookcases, sideboards or wardrobes. Similarly we are not insured upflat-screen for to move electricalsuite items,freshened in particular tvs. Again we apply common sense and fairness to the situation and inevitable we do end up moving some furniture around, even at these discount prices. 3. just £167!

Are there any ‘hidden’ extra costs? The prices quoted above are fully-inclusive and are the actual prices you will pay.

Deal 3

Price Full Offer Price List Carpet 1 £57

Carpet Price

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£97

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8 The High Street, Botley, Southampton, Hampshire, SO3O 2EA Telephone: 01489 536187 Email: sales@town-and-country.co.uk

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www.town-and-country.co.uk

At Town and Country, we take pride in ensuring every client receives the best customer service, from the informative and knowledgeable sales process through to the extensive after sales care.

Our boutique showroom showcases some of the finest kitchen and bathroom furniture available, with a strong emphasis on UK and European manufacturing. Bathroom manufacturers on display include Ambiance Bain, Pelipal, Hansgrohe, Roper Rhodes and Miller of Sweden, with Porcelanosa tiling throughout the showroom. Our kitchens are expertly crafted by Schuller, the second largest German kitchen manufacturer, they have an extensive and inspiring collection ranging from the contemporary to the more traditional.

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

Visit Town & Country 8 The High Street, Botley, Southampton, Hampshire, SO3O 2EA Telephone: 01489 536187 Email: sales@town-and-country.co.uk www.town-and-country.co.uk

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FEATURE

The Alresford Eel House: History and Habitat Introduction

The Alresford Eel House is part of our heritage: a probably unique building of historical and cultural interest. From about 1822 to 1980 the then owners used it to catch eels as they began their migration back to the Sargasso Sea to breed. Years of neglect led to severe structural decay, and since 2006 New Alresford Town Trust, which has a 99-year lease on the building, has spent some £65,000 to restore it, and open it to the public safely. The Trust plans to open the Alresford Eel House from 11.00 till 17.00 on Monday 18th April (also 2nd May, 3rd June, 17th July, 29th August and 11th September). Visitors will be able to see and identify some invertebrate creatures that live in this rare chalk stream, go inside the Eel House and learn about it as part of our historical and natural heritage. They can talk with our volunteers and take a copy of our new Visitor Booklet (the Trust requests a small donation to the Eel House Restoration Fund).

A link with the natural world

The Eel House stands on private land through which flows the River Alre. This is one of only about 200 chalk streams in the world, most in the South of England. They have been renowned for centuries for their abundant wildlife. This includes large colonies of invertebrates – creatures without a backbone – such as molluscs snails, shrimps, insects and worms. Many become flies, while others spend their lives in the water. They are a crucial part of the food chain which supports the fish and eels in the river, which in turn support creatures such as otters, kingfishers, bats, herons and egrets.

What you will see

Visitors will usually be able to look at a representative sample of these invertebrates in a box of gravel and water taken from the river - before being put back later in the day. Species you are likely to see include Beautiful Demoiselle, Mayfly, and Cased Caddis Fly. You can also go inside the Eel House, learn about its function as a source of food and income, how it worked, how it almost collapsed.

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Individuals and public bodies supported two restoration projects, and we envisage a third, to return the trap to working order – only for educational purposes.

The life-cycle of the Eel

You can also learn about the remarkable lifecycle of the European Eel. These must have lived here for many thousands of years and passed through the Eel House for 200 years.

Though their numbers are declining rapidly throughout Europe, they can still engage us as one of the wonders of the natural world. Our new Interpretation Boards will show the mysteries which still surround their lifecycle.

This begins and ends in the Sargasso Sea, near Bermuda – drifting across the Atlantic for about two years, living in a river or estuary for perhaps 15 years, until their instinct drives them to return to their birthplace to breed - crossing an ocean amongst whales, sharks and other predators. The surviving males fertilise the eggs of the remaining females: the eggs turn into larvae, and the remarkable lifecycle begins again, swept to Europe on the Gulf Stream.

An invitation

The Eel House is a unique piece of agricultural history, rescued from collapse by dedicated local people and public bodies. You will rarely see eels but it is a local reminder of the mystery and wonder of nature. Please join us on one of our Open Days in 2022, and consider joining the group of volunteers who help promote and maintain the project.

Acknowledging support

The work to create the Interpretation Boards and Visitor Booklet has been delivered by New Alresford Town Trust and Greenhouse Graphics with a grant from the Watercress and Winterbournes Landscape Partnership Scheme, which is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. It has also received generous financial support from Cain Bio-Engineering, Hellards Estate Agents and Old Alresford Parish Council.

David Boddy and David Woods For information, please contact clerk@towntrust.org.uk

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HOME / MOTORING Alresford Pigs - The cost of living and the cost of war The human cost and strife in Ukraine have had an immediate impact on us all. Television, newspapers, and social media are full of haunting images and harrowing stories. The response from our local communities has been both impressive and immediate and will no doubt continue to be so. There are, of course, Alresford people with connections to Ukraine, and we hear at least one refugee has been welcomed here already. The Alresford Pigs stand ready to help.

The war adds to an economy already under stress following Brexit and Covid; an energy crisis, climbing inflation and the rocketing cost of living are very real concerns for many of us. For some, tighter finances mean making hard choices, sometimes deciding between heat or food. It can be an embarrassing and stressful thing to ask for help, we understand this, and all enquiries are treated in the strictest confidence, by people who care, and are responded to with a willingness to help - if at all possible.

Compost A successful springtime weekend saw the Pigs distribute over 300 bags of premium, peat-free, compost around Alresford; many thanks to all who bought some – Happy growing! The Pigs would like to thank TIG Transport and JMCL Freightways on New Farm Road who generously stored the compost for us and allowed us to use their premises as a distribution base.

Mobility Please remember we have supplies of walking frames, Rollators with wheels, and wheelchairs. If you are just out of the hospital and need

some extra aids, please call us as there are lots of bits of equipment available, recycled from others who found them useful. We also have several powered mobility scooters in stock, please just ask, we have the experience and expertise to help – and it’s free!

If you, or someone you know, needs help please contact us. Be assured all enquiries are treated in the strictest confidence. We consider any request for financial support from within the area and although it’s impossible to list all of the people we have supported down the years they include organisations such as the Scouts, Guides, sports & youth groups, local schools for specific projects, families who are unable to fully fund school trips for their child, single parent families needing white goods, families needing support that cannot be provided by other services, mobility scooters, park benches, senior residents events and activities and life-saving defibrillators scattered around Alresford, plus donations to others in the wider area.

The Alresford Pigs Association is a registered charity (charity no.

1163001). More information can be found at www.alresfordpigs.org or email us at info@alresfordpigs.org or for an immediate request for support call the Pigs Help line 01962 658961.

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

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MICRO CAMPERVAN Our latest conversion, on an 11,000 mile Nissan NV200 Combi. This Camper van (or perhaps, camper car) is under 4.5 metres long and less than 2 metres high so will fit in most garages and only count as a car on ferries etc.

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The conversion has an elevating roof with space for an extra bed, swivelling passenger seat, compressor fridge, full mains electric hook up and leisure battery charged either from the engine or on board charger, hob with sink, pumped water, gas locker with drop out vent, full insulation and of course a rock and roll bed with gas strut assisted closing £29,995

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EDUCATION / COMMUNITY Students Step-Up to Fashion Project Salisbury is not normally associated with luxury fashion, but some young students from Salisbury are challenging this. Godolphin’s art students designed bespoke boots, after being inspired by an art project.

Godolphin is passionate about bringing education to life. Most people struggle to learn effectively, when forced to study abstract concepts within a classroom setting.

Therefore, Godolphin looks for every opportunity for students to apply their learning in real-world situations. With this in mind, Sharon Duggan, Deputy Head of Department and lead in textiles, was determined to make last year’s art project as interactive as possible.

Mrs Duggan first took students on a trip to Salisbury Museum, where they made sketches of historical textile items. This was followed by a trip to the Wallace Collection in London, to experience the “An Enquiring mind” exhibition, produced by the international shoe designer, Manolo Blahnik. The 10 rooms, each with a particular theme in relation to the designer’s work, proved inspirational.

A Big Thankyou I would like to thank the shops, friends and family who donated toward the raffle held on the 5th March. The raffle raised £862 for the Winchester Hospice. The evening was a great success. Thankyou to all who helped.

Chris Richmond - Makins Court, Alresford

Half Term Antics with Henry VIII in Bishop’s Waltham February half-term saw the main shopping area of Bishop’s Waltham full of families undertaking the Where’s Henry? Trail. The trail, part of the town’s 2022 events commemorating the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII’s visit to Bishop’s Waltham, was aimed at primary school children.

They were challenged to find the 20 knitted and crocheted models of Henry VIII that were on display in the town’s shop windows. For each model found, the children were given a quiz question they had to answer about Henry VIII and life in Tudor times. All leaflets with correct answers were then put into a draw, with 3 lucky families winning 2 adult tickets to the Tudor Experience event that will take place in the Bishop’s Waltham Palace Grounds on 2/3 July 2022.

The week’s trail ended on Saturday 26th with a Parade of Henry

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When the students returned to the classroom, Mrs Duggan tasked students to design an item for a contemporary fashion line and they unanimously chose to create boots. The girls then spent many hours developing concepts, producing larger pieces of fabric and making design choices. The result was the class produced an incredible range of boots, which combined classic techniques with contemporary tastes.

One student, Olivia, used inlay felting techniques and machine embroidery to capture the quality of the vintage artifacts on display at the museum fusing them with more modern influences, by using vibrant colours. Another student, Lexie, took a different approach.

Lexie was inspired by the delicate lacework on the costumes at Salisbury Museum. Using heat transfer techniques, lace and dissolvable fabric to impose them on her materials.

Their teacher, Mrs Duggan, said: “When I’m teaching, I want it to be exciting. I want to push the boundaries all the time and challenge the girls to keep them on their toes – inspiring them to go that step further, to hunt ideas out themselves and to want to know more.

“When I’m with my GCSE or A-level students, I teach them in exactly the same way I have taught first, second or third year degree students in the past. Because only then can they show their true potential and immerse themselves in a world of design and textiles and beauty. If you challenge and inspire your pupils in equal measures, I believe the sky’s the limit!”

VIII and his entourage through the High Street accompanied by Tudor music. The 3 lucky children whose leaflets were picked out in the draw were congratulated by Henry VIII and his wife Catherine of Aragon. They were Bella age 10, James, age 7 and Rueben age 4 (with a bit of help from his big sister Olivia age 8). The event was a great success with the children, their parents, grandparents, and the shops all enjoying it. Many people commented on what a lovely activity it had been.

Sue Thomson, one of the participants said: “We had a wonderful day on Wednesday doing the Henry VIII trail, popping back on Thursday to finish it off. What fun it was! Our 2 granddaughters, aged 9 and 6, loved finding all those beautifully knitted Henrys and then popping int the shops for their questions. All the shopkeepers were so lovely and welcoming. We also enjoyed the Tudor music blasting from the speakers and following the procession on the Saturday. A fabulous few days”.

A second trail and procession will take place again in the Easter Holidays. The trail (with different quiz questions) will start on Saturday 16th April and will end on Friday 22nd April. The procession will be on Saturday 23rd April. These events have been made possible by funding from the European Union, European Regional Development Fund and HM Government through Winchester City Council’s Welcome Back Fund.

For more information on this event and the Tudor Experience on 2/3 July visit www.henry500years.co.uk and follow our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/henry500years

Prep, Senior, Sixth

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SOUND ADVICE WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU Feeling more isolated andHEARING anxious during lockdown? are you having HAD YOUR TESTED? trouble hearing TV or talking on the telephone?

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