Itchen Valley Forum - Issue 193 - January 2023

The

Editor Mark Tubb editor@forumpublications.co.uk

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

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

Advertising Manager Mandy Head mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk

Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk

Contributors

Lucia Foster-Found www. luciafosterfound.com

Get in Touch

Forum Publications Offices New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QE Tel: 01962 735137 www.forumpublications.co.uk

The Itchen Valley Forum contains facts, views, opinions, statements, recommendations, advertisements and other content and links to external websites not owned or controlled by the magazine. Itchen Valley Forum takes reasonable efforts to include accurate, current information on its pages, but make no warranties or representations as to the accuracy, safety or value of the published items that are displayed. No liability or responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions in magazine content. Itchen Valley Forum magazine content does not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or recommendations of its creators and any reliance upon its content is taken at the user’s sole risk. Adverts designed by Forum Publications remain the magazine's legal ownership. Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household © Forum Publications Ltd, 2023

Bespoke Kitchens & Furniture

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

We have never had less than a 5 star

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anna and Hugh Cutler, May 22

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

“HappyKitchens.WOWWOW WOW.Thankyousomuchforgiving usthewowfactorweaskedfor.”

The McAdams – June 21

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

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

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

Why Full

Management makes sense

Being a landlord has changed over the last few years. Tax changes, tightening regulations, and increased penalties have all been hitting the headlines, and there’s more on the way. While there’s no doubt that being a landlord is completely different today, money can still be made in the private rental sector if a landlord is shrewd and ensures the property is competently managed. Here are a few practical reasons why Full Management makes sense.

Compliancy made simple Legislation is constantly changing and the consequences of not complying to legislative changes can be costly at best and result in criminal charges at worst. Both national governments and local authorities are clamping down on landlords at present, so being compliant is essential.

The Country House Company will stay abreast of any changes that may affect your property and lay out your options in a way that is easy to understand.

Tenants have more confidence in a Fully Managed property Marketing your property as Fully Managed means that the landlord has invested in the property to ensure that it is in good order and let professionally. Tenants feel they can trust the landlord and have the security of a professional well-known letting agent to work with. This can make a huge difference when it comes to finding the right tenant.

Professional advice

A property manager will be able to explain, when specific issues arise, whether it is tenant or landlord responsibility. They can manage expectations on both sides, so removing any awkwardness or grey areas.

Tax deductible

The fees incurred for a Full Management service are tax deductible, so the fee is effectively reduced by 20% to 40% depending on which tax bracket a landlord falls into.

Less stress

Taking on a Full Management service removes the potential stress of late payments, awkward requests, unreasonable demands, dealing with contractors, worry about legislation and much more.

Professionally conducted inspections

Full Management includes biannual management visits and a comprehensive report with photos. This gives peace of mind that the tenant is looking after the property and will highlight any issues that need dealing with.

Buying time

Being a landlord can be an extremely time-consuming business. Making repairs, organising contractors, getting quotes or simply answering emergency calls out of hours all takes time. If a property is Fully Managed, the team at The Country House Company handle all those issues. We also have a Property Management phone which is manned by a member of our team 24hrs a day.

Opting for Full Management buys a landlord more time, reduces stress, ensures a property professionally let and fully compliant, all for a minimal, fixed monthly fee.

E Q D C

To discuss our Full Management service further please call Marishelle Butler, Head of Property Management on 01962 571189, email: marishelle@countryhousecompany.co.uk or see www.countryhousecompany.co.uk

National Garden Scheme Hampshire

As unlikely as it seems we are commencing another year of Open Gardens. Twenty twenty two saw the NGS donating another amazing amount to our charities. In early December the Trustees announced that, nationally, again we have topped the £3 million mark - £3.11 million will be donated to our beneficiaries. All thanks to our many volunteers and garden visitors. The lions share goes to our main Nursing, Care and Health charities:-

Marie Curie £450,000

Macmillan Cancer Support £450,000

Hospice UK £450,000

The Queens Nursing Institute £450,000

Carers Trust £350,000

Parkinson’s UK £350,000

The balance goes to another ten charities. You can find details of all our beneficiaries on our website ngs.org.uk So to begin another year of fund-raising - starting with Snowdrop Gardens.

Specific Days and by Arrangement

Little Court, Crawley, Winchester, SO21 2PU

Opening: Sunday & Monday 12th & 13th & 19th & 20th February:

2pm to 5pm. Admission: £5.00 children free.

Refreshments: Home-made teas. This walled, sheltered naturalistic garden is worth visiting in all seasons, and is specially exciting in spring. There are many established flower beds and climbers, and a traditional kitchen garden. Also free range bantams. Open By Arrangement: From February to August: Contact Mrs A R Elkington 01962 776365 elksic@btinternet.com

The Down House, Itchen Abbas, SO21 1AX

Opening: February to March for Groups of 10 plus.

Admission: £10.00 Children free - Includes home-made tea. Contact: Jackie & Mark Porter 07814 958810 markstephenporter@gmail.com

A 2 acre garden laid out in rooms overlooking the Itchen Valley, adjoining the Pilgrim's Way. In winter come and see the snowdrops, aconites and crocus, plus borders of dogwoods, willow stems and white birches. A garden of structure with pleached hornbeams, ropelined fountain garden, formal box-edged potager, a yew lined avenue and walks in adjoining meadows. Happy Visiting!

Pat Beagley (Publicity)

National Garden Scheme - Hampshire

Kate Porter Sales

Marishelle Butler Management

Claudia Hunt Lettings

New Year, new beginning…

If you are thinking of moving home this year, we would be pleased to hear from you. Whether you have lived in the same property for a long time and need help and reassurance about the moving process, or maybe you can’t see any suitable properties to move to, our dedicated team are here to assist. Our aim is to give you tailored advice for your own individual circumstances, and to make your move as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Call us today to discuss your options – we hope to hear from you soon!

PRADO was born out of a desire to deliver a good old-fashioned, honest estate agency that goes out of its way to make sure the customer is really happy. Unquestionably.

To see how we can help you get moving in 2023, give us a call or visit our website to find out more.

Local Events

Bishop’s Sutton Village Hall

Available to hire for … parties, wedding receptions, meetings etc. Email: andrenacatesby@hotmail. com or telephone 01962 732117 / 07790 422229

NEW Monday Meet & Eat Everyone Welcome

Every Monday

From 3.45pm

The John Pearson Hall, West St, New Alresford SO24 9AG

Families with primary school children and under are invited to join the fun in the John Pearson Hall. 3.45pm | A drink and a snack to start. Followed by Board Games, Puzzles, Word Searches and lots more fun! 4.45pm | Dinner - we share a FREE hot meal. Please inform us of any dietry requirements. Organised by CTiA. Every Monday Please book in your child or family at mondaymeetandeat@gmail.com

Alresford and District Horticultural Society Talk

Wednesday 11th January

From 7.30pm

St Gregorys Church Hall, Grange Road, Alresford

'Tree Fruits, all aspects of growing' - a talk by Peter Barwick. Contact: Chairman, Stephen Morley, 01962 73 3524 or hortic@allthemorleys.co.uk

Winter Wonderland Lights

back! This January, the Hawk Conservancy Trust will once again, become even more magical, with beautiful illuminations and a live owl display set in a stunning, colourful woodland. They’ll take you on a NEW captivating trail through the grounds while immersed in nature, where the Trust will come alive with sounds and lights dancing through the branches and offer some much-needed escapism to lift the January blues and brighten your spirits. There’ll be more lights and opportunities for you to take family photos, and the beautiful owls will feature in the finale with a live display in their wonderful woodland arena, where the trees will be transformed with lights, music, sound and, of course, birds in flight – just as beautifully as they did last year! Feathers Restaurant will also be open for food from 4:30PM-8:30PM. Times 6pm7.30 and 8.30 - 10pm Tickets £14.00. Contact telephone: 01264 773850 Call to check latest times or cancellations.

The Hat Fair Cabaret

Winchester Ghost Tours

Friday 13th to Sun 15th Janaury

From 4.30pm

Sarson Lane, Weyhill, Hampshire, SP11 8DY

Winter Woodland Lights is

Sunday 15th January

From 7.30pm

Jewry Street, Winchester Hampshire, SO23 8SB

A riotous night of comedy, cabaret and chaos. Circus tricksters, magnificent magicians with weird and wonderful surprises. A show for all ages shapes and sizes. Featuring favourites from Hat Fair festival and some new faces. Running time: 1hr 40mins (plus interval)

Pick Your Price - Option 1 - £27, Option 2 (recommended price) - £21, Option 3 - £15, Option 4 - £9. Contact telephone: 01962 840 440 Call to check latest times or cancellations.

Friday 20 Jan to Fri 24 Feb

From 8.30 to 9.45pm

The Buttercross, High Street Winchester, SO23 9AH

Surround yourself with Winchesters haunting past in this award-winning theatrical ghost tour. Get ready to scream as you come face to face with the city’s ghosts including Sir Walter Raleigh, Ethelred, the unready, the Gaoler and so many more. You’ll uncover accounts of betrayal, death and torture and so much more! Tours take place in all weathers. Rated PG and we booking in advance is essential £9pp - Contact telephone: 07305826116 Call to check latest times or cancellations.

Alresford Art Society

Friday 27 January

From 2.30pm

Bishop’s Sutton Village Hall, Alresford Road (B3047), SO24 0AH

A demonstration of Wildlife in Loose Watercolour by Julia Cassels. Non-members welcome – admission £3. For further information: 01962 733031 or www.artsociety.alresford.org

Chinook Crew Chick

serving female crewman on the Royal Air Force Chinook Fleet spanning a 17 year career flying on the aircraft. She was also the youngest aircrew to deploy to Iraq aged 21 and the only female crewman on the Chinook wing for four years. £10 or £6 pay per view online. Contact telephone: 01264781086 Call to check latest times or cancellations.

Music for St Peter’s

Saturday 25 February

From 7.00pm

St.Peter's Church, Ropley

A Cappella Music By The Winchester Cathedral Chamber Choir in St Peter’s Church, Ropley. Conducted by Joshua Stephens. Church doors & Bar open at 7pm. Tickets at £20 per person available on the St Peter’s Website - https://stpetersropley. org.uk/news/or on the door –Contact Julesflory16@gmail.com

If you would like your event to be featured on our local events page - free of charge then please email your contribution to: editor@forumpublications.co.uk. Please note we cannot guarantee publication.

Alresford Poppy Appeal 2022

Monday 30 January

From 7pm

Army Flying Museum Hampshire, SO20 8FB

Join Liz McConaghy at the Museum to hear her insightful and personal perspective on war. Liz was the longest

This year the total raised for the Royal British Legion in Alresford was £10,078.67.

In a very uncertain year, when times are hard for many, …..people gave, so generously, with cash and by card. I would like to convey huge thanks to all the volunteers who helped with distributing, collecting and counting. Thanks too to all the shops and schools, clubs and local organisations who all played their part. It is very much a team effort.

Sue Cox - Alresford Poppy Appeal Co-ordinator

Haven’t You Heard?

“I miss the old-fashioned January sales. In January.” They were trapped in traffic. Stationary, they looked through the rain-streaked glass at the blurry fairy lights of those still clinging to the festive season.

“They were something to look forward to after Christmas. The silver lining of the big comedown.” She sighed. The windscreen wipers squeaked as they swooped intermittently over the windscreen in desultory fashion.

“You think? Depressing seeing the gifts you bought in December at half price.” Himself turned on the heater as the windows started to steam up.

“I suppose there was that,” she agreed and sighed again. Squeak squeak; the sound of the wipers was starting to irritate.

“I’ll put the radio on,” they said in unison and reached as one for the button.

“It’ll be Steve Wright.” Himself nodded as he looked at his watch.

“Every time you go away, you take a piece of meat with you,” she warbled along with the radio, adding “and haven’t you heard – Steve’s been gone for months.”

“What? Dead?” Himself was looking at her with an expression approaching horror.

“No – not dead,” she reassured. “Just gone.” “Gone? Well, no-one asked me. And it’s not ‘meat’ you’re hearing, Darling - it’s ‘me’. The lyrics...”

“Ah.. I thought it was weird,” she admitted. Himself was still shaking his head as the track changed and she broke into song once more.

“See that girl, watch her scream, kicking the dancing queen.” She danced in her seat, concert stylie.

The car inched forward a few feet and stopped again.

“I’m pretty sure there’s no screaming or kicking in that one either.” Himself murmured as he gazed again out of the window at the lights strung around a conifer in a front garden. It was fully dark now and the wind had picked up – the illuminations were dancing as the tree thrashed about. “And I still miss Wogan.” He added quietly before listening as she joined in the next song with a soulful “young girls with eyes like potatoes…”

“I don’t think you’re hearing Madonna singing about potatoes, darling,” he interrupted. “I mean, what sort? Jersey Royals? And even then those young girls would look... like the stuff of nightmares.” She felt, rather than saw him shudder in the darkness.

The radio DJs changed shifts and they listened in thoughtful silence for a few minutes before another track came on that she thought she knew the words to...

“She seems to have an in-vis-ible top shelf, she reaches in and grabs right

hold of your tart.” She paused in her singing, “actually, that’d be so useful – an invisible top shelf! I could put the Christmas crockery up there,” she mused, thinking of those robin-infested, non-microwaveable, nondishwasher-safe dishes festooned with gold.

Himself started to say “I’m not sure ‘ole Phil is singing about invisible top sh…” then exclaimed, “ooh… on the move at last,” as the traffic jam miraculously dispersed.

A couple of days later on Sunday, Himself wandered into the kitchen. Her head and shoulders emerged from the depths of the freezer. “Could you face turkey soup again? We’ve rather a lot…”

“Umm OK..” He hesitated and added “perhaps we could just have a few chips and maybe a bit of fish with it?” He looked so hopeful that she put the Tupperware tub back amongst identical siblings on its icy shelf. Best get January out of the way and tackle the soup lake again next month.

A spaniel’s nose nudged her leg. “Do you want to go out?” she asked. The dog stayed put. No mad, Scooby-doo-esque running on the spot before careering towards the back door. A second spaniel arrivedpositioned on her other side. They observed her with large and accusing eyes.

“Can’t be dinner time,” she reassured them. “Paul O’Grady’s not on the radio yet.” As if to prove her point, she turned up the volume.

“Ooh, I like this one…” She began to chant loudly “Marge! I just died in your barns tonight – mustard bin something you said..”

Himself had to shout over the combination of the radio and her trilling. “It’s later than you think – haven’t you heard, Paul O’Grady’s been gone for months..”

“No! Not Paul too…” Shocked, she dished up dog food to the partially mollified spaniels.

“I’m afraid so. A sign of the times – or at least, a sign of the radio times..” He shrugged.

Inconveniently though, she found the fryer was surrounded, hemmed in by gadgets; the gifts of Christmas past. It cowered in the corner of the cupboard, unable to escape the clutches of the juicer, the waffleiser, the electric pie press - and this Christmas’s hot favourite, the hot chocolate maker. More candidates for that invisible top shelf, she thought as she emerged, pink-cheeked and triumphant, fryer in arms. Himself, cheerful at the prospect of crispy, brown, fried food, delved into the freezer, happily retrieving fish fillets and home fries. “Hey –listen to this!” he chortled, before breaking into his own enthusiastic warbling, “Money for nothing - and your CHIPS for free...”

© Lucia Foster-Found 2023 www.luciafosterfound.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DITCH THE RAZOR FOR PAIN FREE LASER HAIR REMOVAL

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Half leg, Brazilian Bikini and Underarm £1400 (saving £568)

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BOOK YOUR BESPOKE CONSULTATION NOW Tel: 02380 518558 www.saddlehouse.co.uk

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Alresford Surgery News

Blood Test appointmentsHampshire hospitals

The Phlebotomy Service at Hampshire Hospitals is an appointment only service & has been for some time. We would like to encourage Patients to sign up to online booking system by using the following:

winchester.sangixcloud.com basingstoke.sangixcloud.com andover.sangixcloud.com or by searching blood tests on hampshirehospitals.nhs.uk

Patients will need to click on SIGN UP to create an account before they can login to book a blood test. Patients are still able to access the telephone booking line by calling 01256 314751 between 9.00am – 4.30pm Monday to Friday.

We would like to remind you that the phlebotomy department does not provide a walk-in service. If a patient requires an urgent blood test, they ask that the patient calls their telephone booking line to arrange an appointment.

Healthier Together:

It can be extremely stressful when your child is unwell. We know that there is a huge amount of information available at your fingertips, but finding something that provides clear and accurate information is not always easy!

The resources on the Healthier Together website have been developed in partnership between parents and healthcare professionals from across Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. You'll find clear information on common childhood illnesses, including advice

on what 'red-flag' signs to look out for, where to seek help if required, what you should do to keep your child comfortable and how long your child's symptoms are likely to last. https://what0-18.nhs.uk/ they also have a whole section on Covid, Strep A & Scarlet Fever.

Pneumonia vaccinations

The pneumonia vaccination is a one off vaccination for patients who are 65 or over. You will be invited for this vaccination once you pass your 65th birthday & we can offer the vaccination at the surgery. We have several pneumonia vaccination clinics planned for January, eligible patients will be contacted over the coming weeks to book into these.

New urgent care maternity app

The new urgent care maternity app is now live across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. The new service which provides consistent advice for pregnant people 24 hours a day 7 days a week, was launched on Monday 28 November 2022.

Pregnant people are being encouraged to download the Healthier Together app, which already provides help and advice for parents regarding their children and they can log any maternity concerns they may encounter during their pregnancy.

The app will ask the user to assess their symptoms and it will then decide if they fall into a red, amber or green category. The outcomes of those categories are: Red: These issues will be classed as an emergency and will require the user to call 999.

Amber: The user will be advised to call the maternity triage line if the concern is maternity related or will be advised to contact their GP surgery or 111 if out of hours.

For both the red and amber categories the user can press a button on the app and they will automatically be connected to the service that has been recommended. Green: The user will be directed to information to self-care at home.

If the user is directed to call the maternity triage line, they will be connected to a midwife either at South Central Ambulance Services (SCAS) in Otterbourne or at the Isle of Wight ambulance station. They will be triaged by the midwives and, if required, advised to attend their local Maternity Day Assessment Unit (MDAU) for further assessment.

Travel vaccinations

Due to a high demand for vaccinations & minimal availability we are asking for a minimum of 12 weeks’ notice for travel vaccinations, this includes all NHS funded travel vaccinations.

If you provide us with 12 weeks or less notice you will be asked to a private travel clinic for your vaccinations.

The Alresford Surgery Station Road

ALRESFORD Hampshire SO24 9JL

Telephone: 01962 732345 Website: www.alresfordsurgery.co.uk

D.Barker & Son

Silver Locket and Chain by Kit Heath at £175

40A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 732200 | www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

The Alresford Gift Shop

Continuing our relationships with the UK's best card companies, supporting UK creativity in 2023 Tel: 01962 732192 | alresfordgiftshop.co.uk

On Your High Street

#shoplocal #supportsmallbusinesses

Enticing and eclectic items now available on your high street this summer. Stay local and support your diverse retailers!

Kingsworthy Foundry

The Kindling Cracker! Invented by a 13 year old from New Zealand and now patented worldwide, this clever tool turns splitting logs and chopping kindling on it's head! From £119 available now Tel: 01962 883776 | www.kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk

Interior Style

Glass Blue Octopus £50

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

Andrew Smith & Son Auctioneers

Monthly Antiques & Interiors Auction - Sat14th Jan, Viewing Fri 13th at 10am and and 8.30am on day of sale

FREE Valuation Day Wed 11th Jan at 10am Tel: 01962 735988 | www.andrewsmithandson.com

Billy Goat

SALE Now On - Remember to check school shoes are still a good fit, before the new term starts! Tel: 01962 733926 | www.billygoatshoes.co.uk

I have spent quite a bit of time abroad during December and have not been very happy about the internet wi-fi connections provided by hotels, airports, airport lounges and even on airplanes. I am very aware of the technical hurdles involved in providing free wi-fi to a lot of people at the same time. What I do find annoying is that you are very rarely informed as to how slow your connection might be.

In general, most people want to keep up to date with emails and do some light browsing and this requires a very small amount of bandwidth. Clearly watching or downloading a movie on Netflix is not to be expected although I have heard people asking why not? I have a very good contract with Vodafone that allows me to use my UK data allowance while I am abroad so I am not totally reliant on hotel wi-fi.

This is not an expensive option; I pay just over £30 a month for the facility and I think it is excellent value. I recommend you download the Ookla app from https://www.speedtest.net as you will be able to see exactly what internet speed you are getting on your devices.

That’s all for this month. Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions or for any advice. Best wishes for 2023. AndyMr Mac, 07392 552592

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

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

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

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

Mr Mac

Alresford Rotary

Thank you from Alresford Rotary

For the magnificent support given in 2022 and best wishes for the new year. Our final event in 2022 was the sale of locally sourced quality Christmas Trees in Broad Street on 3rd December again raising significant funds to support individual and charitable need, notwithstanding the highly competitive price of the trees, prices being unchanged from 2021 to reflect the current hard times. The town was quieter than expected so sales were slightly slower than last year but our loyal customers turned out early as always and great support was received from Alresford and Cheriton Scouts and George Skayman and his trumpet! If you have any views as to how the tree sale could be improved, please send us an email. Is the first Saturday in December too early, too late or just right? Could the variety of trees on sale be improved or reduced to make choosing one easier? Let us know - we'll be back in 2023!

Local Villages Photo Competition

Many thanks for all who entered the competition featured at the back of November and December’s Itchen Valley Forum. There were few correct entries, the location in photo A in particular appearing to be relatively unknown or unnoticed! The correct answers are:

A Cub Scout building near Bramdean Common

B Carved Bear outside Broom Copse Farm, Spiers Lane, Old Alresford

Alresford Pigs

We should finish 2022 in celebration of all that has passed and with hope for the year ahead. As a local charity we have achieved much to be proud of: We sold thousands of litres of compost, we directed traffic for the Watercress Festival, we helped many, many local people in many ways – from physical assistance to financial help. We put up tents (and took them down), we helped open gardens, we quizzed in November and we were so pleased to see the return of the Alresford Show! An outstanding success, with record attendance. What a year!

2023

It’s a Duck Race year! So look out of this fun family event in June (probably). We will be selling compost again and potentially holding a plant sale as well as other fundraising events. 2024 will be a big year for the Pigs – being our 50th anniversary and we will be planning hard for a bit of a ‘do’!

The Arrival of Father Christmas

So, Father Christmas did arrive on Broad Street to the delight of all and then processed, with his helpers, around the streets of Alresford bringing delight and festive fun to all. Many people and organisations give their time and equipment for free to help with this event. The Alresford Pigs join the Alresford Main Tree Fund in thanking our sponsors and helpers: Hellards, Barnes and Liddiard, MD Payne, the anonymous sponsor of the children’s toys, Toy Box, Prospect Fencing, Eddols Carpets, Apecs, Stephen Thorne, David Tigg and many others who give their time and effort so generously.

Christmas Trees

Thanks to all the volunteers from the Alresford Pigs, the public and the Alresford Chamber of Commerce who helped put up the Christmas Trees this year. The display is a delightful attraction, bringing both visitors and residents to our main shopping streets, and adding a charming Christmas sparkle to our delightful town.

Cost of Living

Things are getting harder. This season is a very difficult and expensive time.

C Railway Arch, Northington Road, Itchen Abbas

D Sports Pavilion, Ropley

E Village Pump, Preston Candover

F Road bridge over the Itchen on School Road, Cheriton

The aim of the competition was to emphasise that in 2023 Alresford Rotary aims to continue to promote and develop its community focus not only in New Alresford but also in the surrounding area i.e., not only SO24 but also GU32, GU34, RG25 etc postcode areas. If your local community has a need we may be able to help, but that’s not a possibility unless you contact us. If you want to improve your community let us know. We’re a lively, expanding group aiming to recruit more members and establish more contacts. Our membership is increasingly diverse, not just old men! Rotary is for all! Involvement with Rotary need not involve significant expense nor more time than you can spare. Please let us know if you feel you can help Rotary or Rotary can help you!

“Probably mid Hampshire’s Quiz of the Year 2023”

The box office is now open for this popular annual event at Itchen Abbas Village Hall to be held this year on Friday 31st March at 7.15 p.m. £12.50 per person (tables of 6) to include hot supper. To book please contact rotaryalresford@gmail.com or 07951 951 671

Book early to avoid disappointment!

James Pinniger and Paul Watters

We’re all seeing the impact of climbing inflation and the rocketing cost of living are very real concerns for many of us. For some tighter finances means 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. Contact us in confidence: info@alresfordpigs.org or call 01962 658961.

Mobility - A call for help!

The Pigs provide mobility equipment and aids for many people in and around Alresford. But demand is rising, and we have seen our stocks diminish. We desperately need supplies of commode chairs, walking frames, Rollators with wheels, and wheelchairs. If you have borrowed some of our equipment in the past and no longer need it please return it or call us to collect it from you. We also have several powered mobility scooters in stock, please just ask, we have the experience and expertise to help – and it’s free!

Help is available

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 all round 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 Helpline: 01962 658961.

Preparatory, in Romsey has kept the Christmas Spirit alive by holding performances of both the Early Years and Key Stage 1 Nativities to families.

The children had been rehearsing very hard for their Christmas performance, and were very excited to perform in front of their families.

The Early Years children gave a wonderful performance entitled ‘Whoops-A-Daisy’, whilst Key Stage 1 opted for telling the traditional story entitled ‘We’d Like to Tell You a Story’. Both Nativities were also filmed and will be available for family members who could not make the live event.

Mrs Fay, Director of Music at Stroud says, “We thoroughly enjoyed performing these Nativities. A lot of hard work, planning and rehearsals went into these productions and we are so pleased that friends and families could come and enjoy these festive performances.”

Stroud School has also celebrated the festive season by decorating Christmas trees, hanging wreaths and enjoying Christmas parties, as well as enjoying a Carol Service at Romsey Abbey for Middle and Senior School children along with their families. A festive end to a busy and fun-filled Autumn Term!

Stroud School in Romsey is a co-educational independent school set within 22 acres of beautiful parkland, playing fields, woodland and wetland that allows for exploration and the development of a love of learning. Its popular Wednesday morning events take place throughout the term and are an excellent way to visit the school, meet the staff and children and explore the facilities and extensive grounds.

To book your place or for more information, please call 01794 513231 or emailregistrar@stroud-kes.org.uk

C M Y

CM MY CY

CMY K

New TownAlresford Council

Local councillors are the champions of their community, investing time in local projects and issues to the benefit of residents and the neighbourhood, making decisions on local services and collaborating with district and borough councils. A town councillor can be involved in creating Neighbourhood Plans, establishing youth projects, managing playgrounds, allotments and open spaces, maintaining footpaths, public seating, and litter bins amongst much more. If you think that you may be interested in being a local councillor and standing for election, please contact townclerk@newalresford-tc.gov.uk for further details.

Who is Responsible for Trees & Hedges Overhanging Pavements & Footpaths?

Overhanging vegetation can be hedges, trees, shrubs, bushes, or any other type of plant that grows out from within your property’s boundary onto a footway or carriageway (including footpaths or roads to the front, rear, or side) in a way that obstructs or endangers highway users, for example:

• it may obstruct the footpath so pedestrians, including those with a disability, must walk into the road

• it may prevent pushchairs or wheelchairs from getting past

• it may obstruct sight lines for vehicle

users

• it can obstruct street furniture such as streetlamps

Under the Highways Act 1980 Section 154, residents are responsible for maintaining trees, hedges and shrubs within their property that adjoin the public highway

and therefore they must make sure that any vegetation does not overhang the pavement, public footpath or road that would cause any obstruction.

Report a tree or hedge problem | Hampshire County Council

https://www.hants.gov.uk/transport/ roadmaintenance/roadproblems/treehedge

NPAG - The Neighbourhood Plan Advisory Group

Are holding a Business Community Event at Alresford Recreation Centre on Monday 9th January. All those that took part in the New Alresford Business survey will be able to interact, discuss issues and opportunities

relating to how the future economy of the town can be shaped. See NATC website for future details.

Alresford Recreation Centre

Those of you who have visited Alrebury Park will have seen that the new roof on the building has been completed and CCTV has been installed to monitor the areas surrounding the building. We are just awaiting newly refurbished entry gates to the car park.

Alresford Town Council, Alresford Recreation Centre, The Avenue, SO24 9EP Call us: 01962 732079

E-mail: townclerk@newalresford-tc.gov.uk

Jackie’s County Corner for January

Happy New Year! I hope you are looking forward to an eventful year with the King’s Coronation in May. Have you ordered that bunting yet?!

• How many junctions are on the HCC’s ‘concerned list’ and is the Cart and Horses junction on that list?

The answer was currently, no, but the deputation and the accident may change that.

The Minerals and Waste Plan

HCC’s draft reg 18 plan is open for consultation until the end of January. It includes extraction of minerals, management of household waste, potential sites for handling commercial waste, and energy generation. You can see this by going to ‘have your say’ on hants.gov. uk Please ask me if you’d like more details.

Road and footway resurfacing

The picture this month was taken with our grandchildren at the ‘Lights Up’ event at Hillier Arboretum. Although too late for this winter, it’s definitely worth a visit next year!

Funding for low carbon projects

I know that many of you volunteer for organisations that are looking to reduce their own Carbon Footprint. These two links may be of use:-

LoCASE: Low Carbon Access in the South East are offering up to £10K for community projects and small businesses. You must make an expression of interest first , then complete the form. http://locase.co.uk

TRIODOS: this article describes how communities can access ethical investment from Triodos bank: https://tinyurl.com/communityfunds. Details of both of these items are also on my website.

Cart and Horses junction

The Community Campaign to change the junction is determined and the more people that join it, the more likely we are to see funding directed to a safer junction. It is important that it is seen not just as a local issue, but relevant more widely. Thank you for taking an interest: I have received messages from most parts of the division, and following our request, Cllr Adams-King, the Exec Member for highways has received many emails too. He has agreed to meet with local councillors in early January. The deputation from two residents to the County Council in late November was excellent. You can see it online and I have set up a link on my website: their deputation starts around 30 minutes into the Council meeting.

Questions to the Council

At that Council meeting , I asked three questions on matters that residents raise frequently with me.

• Would the Council lobby for Free School Meals for all families who are on Universal Credit? (especially important now a school lunch is £2.80 /day) The answer was yes.

• Would HCC restore pedestrian access to the HWRC’s for those who walk or cycle, and who live nearby, or don’t use a car. The answer was no, it is considered to be a health and safety issue. (Residents and I don’t agree)

I have mentioned One.network before which indicates road closures and delays. Whilst I am pleased that roads and footways are being resurfaced in this division, two issues arise. Very short notice is being given to inform bus users and others of the implications of the closures, and details of the closures (is it one way working etc?) is not fully explained on the One.Network website to be useful to the general public. If you have any roads or footways that should be added to the request list, please add them on the hants.gov.uk website and/or inform me of your tracking number. Thank you

Stagecoach buses

The Stagecoach bus service performance has been disappointing, and inconvenient. I know many of you write to the local manager or to the Area Office. Gordon Frost has recently replaced Mr Hodgson there. I have started a dialogue to see better how they or HCC could inform passengers of any alterations to the services. I am seeking to improve this service with Stagecoach in 2023, but bus finance and recruitment is at a crisis at present.

A new Structure at Hampshire Country Council from January 2023 sees a new structure for greater efficiency and less expenditure. As well as Children’s Services and Adults Health and Social Care, a new area, Universal Services, covers Highways, Economy, Transport, Countryside services, footpaths and much more. Hampshire 2050 will be a new Directorate including Climate change, and transformation of HCC services to cope with the very difficult financial situation.

Contact me: Jackie.porter@hants.gov.uk Tel: 07973 696 085.

(Not sure whether I will continue to stay on twitter!) Website www.jackieporter.co.uk

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What's in a Name?

When we have the Alresford Society, the Alresford Art Society, & the Arts Society Alresford, the answer is - some confusion!

Repeatedly, albeit not too frequently, there have been cases of ‘mistaken identity’ over the years. These incidents have been rather amusing: like the speaker at the Art Society thinking she was addressing the Arts Society (note the additional ‘s’ in ‘Arts’ here); someone joining one society in mistake for another, and a very recent request to the Alresford Society to promote a local wood carving event, so over to the Art Society with that one.

So, what’s going on here? It’s time for some clarity and in a spirit of friendly cooperation, the three parties – which actually have three very different roles - agreed to spell things out here, in the pages of the well-read Itchen Valley Forum magazine. In addition to clarifying our relative positions, it is hoped we might also recruit a few more to our respective organisations.

The Alresford Society was founded in 1965. It is a ‘civic society’ (not to be confused with the more general term ‘civil society’ although some aims are similar) and is part of a wide body of such voluntary organisations, all ‘anchored’ in their local villages, towns and cities, and are for people who care about where they live. The Alresford Society is protective of the distinctive character and history of our built environment and the surrounding countryside; the quality of design in development, and local facilities and services. We work with the New Alresford Town Council, the Alresford Town Trust, the mid-Hampshire branch

of the Campaign for Protection of Rural England, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Friends of St John’s (which runs the Alresford Community Cinema, raising funds for the restoration of the clock on the church tower in 2022) and set up the Friends of the Arle to protect our lovely chalk stream and its wildlife. Our knowledgeable planning sub-group comments on significant local development proposals and we ensure members are carefully briefed on local district plans and consultations run by Winchester & Hampshire councils. Visit www. thealresfordsociety.co.uk to learn more.

The Alresford Art Society was set up by an Art Teacher at Eastleigh Technical College, also in 1965, who called a meeting in the Alresford Community Centre with a view to starting an art society in Alresford. Nearly 60 years later it is thriving. Most (but not necessarily all) of its members actively paint or sculpt and the society informs, promotes and encourages practitioners and enthusiasts alike who live in and around Alresford. Monthly talks and demonstrations of different media (watercolour, acrylic, pastels, etc.) are held and classes are open to all, to help budding and more experienced artists improve their techniques and expand their creative horizons. Open air sessions are held in the summer months and the annual exhibition at the Community Centre in Alresford demonstrates the high standards of local artists and is well worth visiting; 700 visitors attended this year! More information at www.artsociety.alresford.org

Next, let’s explain about The Arts Society Alresford; you probably knew it better as

‘NADFAS’. The National Association of Decorative & Fine Arts Society was founded in 1968 and the Alresford branch was set up in 1978. Its title was changed, though, by NADFAS Head Office in 2017 in a rebranding exercise to identify branches with their local community and surrounding areas. There are now many such local branches affiliated to NADFAS, still the national body, although it too has changed its name to The Arts Society! Local groups include The Arts Society Winchester, The Arts Society Meon Valley and The Arts Society Alton, and so on.

Its role is different again to both the Alresford Society and Alresford Art Society. Through a programme of lectures, visits, study days and heritage projects, it aims to broaden members’ knowledge and enjoyment of the decorative and fine arts. Expert lecturers are both knowledgeable and often entertaining, covering topics such as architecture, artists and designers, china, glass, furniture, jewellery, music, painting and more. And there are visits to country houses, exhibitions, gardens and places of interest. See https://theartssocietyalresford. org.uk/home.aspx

And now, following recent three-way discussions to find ways of clarifying our different roles, we have jointly prepared this article. And The Arts Society Alresford has agreed to include ‘formerly NADFAS’ on their website and literature to try to prevent future confusion. This is welcome and appreciated, and sounds like a workable way forward as all three organisations celebrate the New Year 2023.

The Alresford Society, the Alresford Art Society, & Arts Society Alresford

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Facias and Soffits

If your soffits and fascias are made of wood, exposure to the elements can cause

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With gas and electric at an all time high having poorly fitted windows and doors can costs hundreds if not thousands in unnecessary heating bills. Expertly fitted uPVC windows can save up to 25% on heat loss in most homes! With the onset of the cold weather do you find yourself relying on your central heating more and more?

If you want to save money on your energy bills, then investing in double/triple glazed windows to replace your single glazing would be the most sensible solution.

The airtight seal of double glazed windows provides many advantages. Heat will be unable to flow in and out, meaning it’s unable to escape once you’ve made your home warm and cosy. This means you won’t need to lean so heavily on your central heating, and you will find yourself reaching for the thermostat less often.

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Condensation is also a common issue with windows in homes right across the country. This is caused as water vapour in the air building up on surfaces that are at

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The Wonders of Chalk Streams in Wintertime

The weather may be grey at this time of year, but our precious chalk streams are still great places for a stroll. Visit in the early morning, and you might be treated to the sight of mist rising gently from the water’s surface. This happens because the streams, which are fed by an underground aquifer, can actually be warmer than the air on cold days – as the two meet, a truly atmospheric effect occurs!

Up on the stream banks, the ground may have gained a smattering of snowdrops. Native to mainland Europe, these delicate blooms were introduced in the 16th century and now thrive along our waterways. But it’s not just flowers that benefit wildlife – the hollow stems of dead plants can be an ideal hibernation spot for insects. So if you’re tempted to have a tidy up, do wait until the springtime.

Unlike the raucous chorus of the breeding seasons, birds are often quieter in the winter. As the hunt for food takes centre stage, many species become less territorial and

gather in larger numbers. Listen for not only chalk stream icons like kingfishers and Cetti’s warblers, but also jays, wrens, goldcrests, little egrets, and woodpeckers. Use free apps like Merlin or BirdNET to identify their calls.

Though leaves and flowers are in short supply, look for clues to the identity of streamside trees. The size of buds, the texture of bark, and the presence of sap can all aid your quest. For example: alders and weeping willows both love damp ground (alder wood is actually more durable when wet) so are often found next to water. But the willow’s catkins are golden, while the alder’s are tinged purple.

Winter is also a great time to see where animals are travelling, as mud, frost, and snow make their footprints more visible. Deer, foxes, badgers, water voles, or even otters could have passed by; with some detective work, you’ll soon know. You can also look for things like nibbled tree bark, empty nut shells, and piles of droppings –there are lots of online guides with pictures

of these ‘signs’.

Want to learn more about chalk streams? Explore the Watercress and Winterbournes scheme, which is made possible by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, at www.hiwwt.org.uk/winterbournes

Free online talks – book at www.hiwwt.org.uk/events

Chalk Stream Habitat Restoration 12th January, 7-8pm

Hear about our recent habitat improvements on the Test and Itchen headwaters, why they were needed, and possible futures for these special spaces.

Septic Tanks and the Environment 26th January, 7-8pm

Hear how private ‘off-mains’ sewage systems can impact our chalk streams, and how to avoid this by keeping your system safe and effective.

Image © Ross Hoddinott/2020VISION

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