Uneven and heavy tyre wear can go unnoticed. It is surprising how many people do not check their vehicles for problems before undertaking a journey. It was lucky that this customer came to us for a FREE vehicle check before setting off on a trip.
We also check oil, water and coolant levels and brakes. These simple, but important checks, can save you a lengthy wait for a breakdown recovery vehicle or even save your life!
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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, 2023
“You light the candles. I’ll get the Scrabble,” Himself offered. A power cut. Brought on by the storm raging outside? Or was this the much-muttered return to the power cuts of the Seventies …? She hoped not, the dim (being the operative word) memories of blackouts and the three day week hadn’t seemed like a lot of fun, even as a child. Either way, it was dark and none too warm.
They huddled around the kitchen table, snug in their oft-worn oversized fleeces, the size of small marquees. Although something of a novelty Christmas present, economising on the heating ensured their novelty had long since worn off.
“Scrabble? If you’re sure.. OK.”
Himself nodded seriously, his gaze concentrated on his letter selection.
“Loser has to warm the other one’s side of the bed,” he added. The camping kettle was whistling on a primus as they picked their tiles and looked appraisingly at each other.
“Stakes are high then.” In the rapidly cooling house, she imagined creeping under a chilly duvet - and shivered.
The wind outside howled, gently puffing the door curtain - and she was reminded of the blossom-laden tree next door. Only yesterday Himself had fixed the frothily-pink ornamental cherry with a baleful eye and remarked “we’ll be in for blowy weather.”
Was he blessed with a paranormal gift to predict just when the winds would strip the delicate rosy petals from the boughs?
Or had he just taken a sneaky glance at Wetter.com?
She couldn’t decide, but plumped for the hint-of-the-occult option. After decades together, a little mystery in the marital mix was nice. Especially by candlelight.
The cold air became thick with concentration and steam from their tea, punctuated by snippets of conversation;
“I know it sounds like it should be, but is ‘Acturel’ a real word do you think?” Genuine curiosity as they both reached for the dictionary.
“I know you didn’t do it on purpose, but I can’t believe you’ve ruined my double ‘ZA’ on a triple letter square!” Hands were rubbed over faces in exasperation.
In the midst of the battle of words, Himself mentioned casually “I had a go at Wordle today.” “Crikey!” She stopped pairing her ‘Q’ with an exposed ‘I’ and looked at him.
“I thought that might impress you.” He was smiling to himself as he nonchalantly re-arranged his tiles. “Actually, more accurately, I finished playing Wordle and even thought about having a go at Spelling Bee.”
“Double crikey. How many goes in Wordle?” She’d just squeaked in with a six. Today’s had been tricky.
“Three…” He replied. Himself’s mild dyslexia, somewhat off-piste spelling and word games didn’t make for natural bedfellows. Which made her suspicious… “Three?”
“Yes. Three. Gave up and Googled it ; I had no letters and no idea after two goes. As W. C. Fields once said, ‘if it’s worth winning, it’s worth cheating for’.” Himself smiled beatifically and unashamedly as he laid a single tile. Smiling, she looked at the letter he’d placed and commented, “you can’t just stick an X on the end..”
“Like a kiss,” he interrupted her.
“Yes, a bit like a kiss,” she giggled.
“It’s the love letter” he interrupted again, nodding.
“I suppose it is the letter with the most love. Hadn’t thought of it like that. But anyway, you can’t just stick an X on the end of a word and hope that one day it will be alright.” Giving the word a closer inspection however, she exclaimed, “actually, wait. ‘Adieux’ is a real word. Seems your love letter worked. Well done you!”
“You see,” he wrote down his score and looked smug, “I’m driven to play the games you play. It’s the romantic in me.” That was sweet and quite possibly true – in spite of the smugness.
Two pots of tea, the very last morsels of the leftover Christmas cake and some seriously iffy words later, Himself sat back and tossed aside his pencil and paper. He announced airily, “I like to think that I let you win.”
“You’re too kind.” She said. “So you could warm my side of the bed?”
Clearing away the crockery, she thought of the chilly bedroom that awaited them.
Himself smiled at her through the gloom. It occurred to her that Love took many forms – not just letters.
Ben came and sized up replacement doors and cupboards for our existing kitchen and while there we took the opportunity to enquire about a kitchen bookcase and a new cupboard. Nothing was any problem for Ben to put into the design. The date for the kitchen refit was organised really quickly and was set for a couple of weeks after the quote, both of which were excellent. The end result was a kitchen which has been transformed beyond recognition with major additions of a breakfast bar and extra new and replacement cupboards. We are so impressed with the finish that we have asked Ben to measure up for some bespoke non standard size bedroom cabinets that we would like them to build. In summary quality work carried out by highly skilled tradesmen. Pity there are only five stars.
Mr P. RamageHappy 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.
ALRESFORD
Guide Price: £2,250,000 | EPC Rating: Exempt
ALRESFORD
ALRESFORD
Guide Price: £695,000 | EPC Rating: D
A name you can count on in
ALRESFORD
Guide Price: £550,000 | EPC Rating: C
ALRESFORD
To Let: £2,750pcm | EPC Rating: D
BRAMDEAN
To Let: £1,700pcm | EPC Rating: E
Guide Price: £745,000 | EPC Rating: C 11 Broad Street, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9AR | alresford@hellards.co.uk
With the worst of the winter weather now behind us, this is the time of year when people are once again thinking about moving home. The property market locally remains buoyant and we are currently experiencing 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.
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. We hope to hear from you soon!
At the moment the property market is being guided by what seems like an untrustworthy compass of commentators with rotating needles of conflicting information and advice.
It’s challenging for most to know which way to go. Is it better to wait to sell, buy, rent, or let in the hope of a better market?
In truth it is better to ignore the confused dialogue and find a more reliable pathfinder. You might be astonished to know how much a good and experienced estate agent understands about their local property market.
In simple terms, to be a true expert with a wealth of experience, an agent will have been in the business for well over 10 years. In
this time a good estate agent will have marketed and agreed the sales and rentals of thousands of properties through markets good and bad, economies booming and busting, in spring, summer, autumn and winter. These property experts will have also helped families move during the good and the not so good times in their lives.
An experienced agent has learnt what to do, whatever the market, and knows what to do now……
Contact The Country House Company for that expert and reliable advice.
Head of Sales - Kate Porter katep@countryhousecompany.co.uk
Head of Lettings - Claudia Hunt claudia@countryhousecompany.co.uk
Head of ManagementMarishelle Butler marishelle@countryhousecompany.co.uk
Contact us on 01962 571189 www.countryhousecompany.co.uk
The very best events sell out well in advance and Alresford Rotary is delighted that it’s “Probably mid Hampshire’s Quiz of the Year” falls into that category of “not to be missed” occasions. The “Sold Out” notices went up more than six weeks before the event on 31st March and we look forward to an enjoyable and entertaining evening, raising further funds to support local and international needs.
Your previous generous support of such events as the November fireworks night and the December Christmas tree sale meant that Alresford Rotary was able to move swiftly and within a week of the Turkey/Syrian earthquake occurring send £5000 towards the relief effort. Thank you!
Helping keep Alresford tidy!
For many years Alresford Rotary has litter picked at various locations and in particular along Tichborne Down and Sun Lane and did so most recently on 11th February. On Sunday 5th March (in conjunction with the Town Council’s litter picking day on 4th March) Alresford Rotary will from 8.00 a.m. be tidying up Broad Street. All very welcome to join in!
Please let us know at any time if you can help Alresford Rotary make even more of a difference, both locally and internationally or if you think Rotary may be able to help you!
James Pinniger
PRADO is as much a part of Alresford and its surroundings as the home you’re selling. No one knows the local housing market and the area better than us - after all we’ve been in the Hampshire property business for almost 30 years!
Isn’t it time to give us a call for your free, no obligation valuation?
4 And He (Jesus) answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that He which made them at the beginning made them male and female,
5 And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?
6 Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
7 They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?
8 He saith unto them, Moses, because of the hardness of your hearts, suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
See also,the Word of God, as found in Genesis 1:26-28; 2:21-25; 3:1-24.
Wednesday 8 March
From 7.30pm St Gregory’s Church Hall, Grange Road, Alresford
This month’s talk is 'Wilder 2030' by Susan Simmonds of the Hampshire Wildlife Trust. Contact: Janet Pooley, janet@ thepooleys.plus.com or 01962 732779
Alresford
Friday 10 March
From 8pm - 10.15pm Perins School, Pound Hill, Alresford
Finally New Alresford gets the comedy night it so deserves –comedians at the top of their game bringing the biggest laughs! Opening the show for this first night is none other than star of Live At The Apollo, Laura Lexx! Laura has been busy touring and you’ll recognise her as a regular on Mock The Week too!
Next up is Ben Norris, a regular comedian to be seen at Leicester Square’s Comedy Store! You’ll also have seen Ben on Comedy Central and Mock The Week too!
Headlining is none other than Rob Deering! Rob headlines all the biggest and best clubs around the world, with his hilarious guitar wielding set, and he’s been supporting John Bishop on tour too! Most recently you’ll recognise Rob from Celebrity Mastermind and one of the weekly contestants on Richard
Osman’s House of Games! All held together by award winning comedian James Alderson, and with free parking and a full stocked bar, this is a great night on your doorstep not to be missed! For more information and booking visit: www.skiddle.com/whats-on-beta/ Southampton/Perins-School/ Stitches-Comedy-Club-NewAlresford/36285475/
Solos Afternoon Tea
Sunday 19 March
From 2.30pm John Pearson HallEast St, Alresford, SO24 9AG
We hold a Sunday Afternoon Tea on the Third Sunday of every month from 2.30pm in the John Pearson Hall. Do join us for Tea Homemade Cakes conversation and friendship. Information available on: 01962 733545 between 10am and 12noon Monday to Friday.
Alresford Art Society: A demonstration of Wildlife in Loose Watercolour
Thursday 23 March
From 7.30pm
Bishop’s Sutton Village Hall, Alresford Rd (B3047), SO24 0AH
Monday 27 March
From 7.45pm Ropley Parish Hall, SO24 0DU
Making the most of what you’ve got Ben Pope - www.ropleyhs. org.uk
Alresford Rotary Quiz of the Year 2023
Friday 31 March
From 7.15pm Main Road, Itchen Abbas, Winchester SO21 1BQ
£12.50 per head - Tables of six. Licensed bar - Hot supper. To book or for further information please contact: rotaryalresford@ gmail.com or call: 07951 951671
Ropley Horticultural Society Spring Show
Saturday 1 April
From 2.30pm - 4pm Ropley Parish Hall, SO24 0DU
www.ropleyhs.org.uk
French Market A must for all Francophiles -
Sunday 9 April
From 9am to 4pm Broad Street, Alresford
(includes soup and a ploughman’s lunch). Non-dog walkers and lunch only welcome too. Book your ticket/s online (plus 84p booking fee) at www.ticketsource.co.uk/ home-start-winchesterdistricts alternatively send a cheque payable to Home-Start Winchester & Districts to Lanterns, Bereweeke Road, Winchester SO22 6AJ, call 07776 041574 or email info@ home-startwinchester.org.uk Help us to support local families Home-Start Winchester and Districts is a registered charity (1108170).
Sunday 16 April
From 10.30am
By Julia Cassels- Non-members welcome – admission £3. For further information: 01962 732043 or visit www.artsociety. alresford.org
Bishop’s Sutton Village Hall Jumble Sale
Saturday 25 March
From 1.30pm
Bishop's Sutton, Alresford, SO24 0AH
Admission £1 (cash only please) Proceeds towards Hall funds Jumble may be brought to the Hall from 10.00am on the day
French delicacies in the heart of Alresford.
Thursday 13 April
From 10.30am
Kilmeston Village Hall, Kilmeston, SO24 0NW
Sponsored by Gay Dog Boarding Kennels. Two guided walks of different lengths. Both walks leave at 10.45am prompt, whatever the weather. Walkers participate at their own risk.
Donation £12 per walker
Harbridge Farm, Ringwood (A338), Hampshire BH24 3PS
Southern Counties Heavy Horse Association. Adults £ 8 Senior Citizens £ 6. SCHHA Members and children under 16 FREE Car Parking FREE. Secretary & Trade Enquiries: Anne Dawson 07773 155817. By kind permission of Lord Normanton www.schha.co.uk
Feature your event free of charge please email it to editor@forumpublications. co.uk
A SELECTION OF HOMES AVAILABLE FOR SALE
ALRESFORD
BRAMDEAN
4 Bedrooms | 4 Receptions | 2 Bathrooms
A stunning Grade II Listed, detached four-bedroom period home in one of Hampshire’s most popular villages within the South Downs National Park.
GUIDE PRICE £1,350,000
BISHOP’S
YOUR PROPERTY MARKET
5 Bedrooms | 3 Receptions | 4 Bathrooms
An impressive characterful five-bedroom family home ideally situated within the beautiful market town of Alresford offering spacious and versatile living.
GUIDE PRICE £1,000,000
Charlie and his team are made up of local property experts who are passionate about the town they serve.
“Friendly, responsive and helpful...
in finding our forever home. Just wanted to say a big thank you to Elouise at Charters Alresford. She was super helpful in trying to find us a rental property and now in buying our forever home. She is always really friendly and responsive to get back to you on any queries.”
S. Travers
If you would like a FREE valuation for your home, please call us on 01962 734633 today.
C. Drake
www.chartersestateagents.co.uk
alresford@chartersestateagents.co.uk
We are proud to be able to host this year’s free event held in association with the leading rental property organisations in our region. Whether you’re a residential property landlord with an established portfolio or are thinking about taking your first steps into the private rented sector, this is your opportunity to meet all the experts in this exciting field under one roof.
29 March 2023 (2pm to 6pm)Scan our QR code to register your attendance.
Home & Garden Furniture in stock or available to pre-order FREE local delivery
FONTLEY ROAD TITCHFIELD FAREHAM PO15 6QX
Breakfast | Brunch | Lunch | Afternoon Tea | Sunday Roasts
Private hire now available in our fully licensed coffee lounge
the_summerhouse_coffee_lounge
SummerHouse2022
summerhouse-restaurant.co.uk
HORATIO’S GARDEN the UK-based charity is dedicated to creating and nurturing beautiful, accessible and sustainable gardens in NHS spinal centres. The great news for 2023 is that Horatio’s Garden will have a Show Garden on Main Avenue at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, designed by Charlotte Harris and Hugo Budd. After the show the garden will have a permanent home at the Princess Royal Spinal Cord Injuries Centre in Sheffield - the eighth Horatio Garden. The National Garden Scheme have been supporting Horatio’s Garden since 2015. In that time over £400,000 has been donated, with a commitment to donate funding towards the completion of all eleven gardens.
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 wild flowers. Opening: 7th & 10th April 2pm to 5.30pm Pre-booking available. Admission: £8.00 children free. CARD Payment available. Refreshments: Home-made teas in the village hall. Paige Cottage (part of Crawley Gardens)
https://findagarden.ngs.org.uk/garden/17567/crawley-gardens Crawley, Winchester, SO21 2PR
Twin Oaks
Enjoy this ever evolving water garden, bursting with spring colour from azaleas, rhododendrons and bulbs. A lawn meanders between informal beds and ponds, and bridges lead to a tranquil pergola seating area overlooking a wildlife pond. A rockery is skirted by a stream and a waterfall tumbles into a large lily pond home to the dragonflies. Wheelchair accessible.
Also Open By Arrangement: For a more private and personal visit for Groups of between 6 & 30. Open from April to August. Contact the owners: 02380 907517 syd@sydh.co.uk
Crawley Gardens
Here you have three gardens for one priceall set in the extremely picturesque village of Crawley, with its duck pond and thatched cottages.
Opening: Sunday & Monday 9th & 10th April 1pm to 5pm. (ALSO May June & Aug) - Admission: £4.00 children Free CARD Payment available - Refreshments: Home-made teas
https://findagarden.ngs.org.uk/garden/36124/twin-oaks 13, Oakwood Road Chandlers Ford SO53 1LW
Pat Beagley (Publicity)
National Garden Scheme - Hampshire
Experience the power of the Earth’s elements this spring. Natural phenomena and the creation of our world is explored in this new spectacular immersive sound and light show by Luxmuralis. Earth, Air, Fire and Water are the attributes of our world. They vary within different cultures and are intertwined with religion, local mythology and represented throughout art history in many ways worldwide. You will be enveloped by each element and witness the transformation of the majestic sacred space of the Cathedral with projection artworks which interpret the elements within our planets environment in which we live and impact upon
our human behaviour. The Cathedral will be divided into four areas transitioning you between the the elements which will illuminate the interior spaces in different ways. The elements will be conveyed through artistic interpretations, sound and light and allowing you to witness volcanoes, be immersed in the sky and environment, watch as the natural world evolves through dramatic historic and artistic imagery and end in the Nave immersed in the power of the oceans, storms and great stories linked to water. Adults: £11.25 (inc. £1.25 cmsn) - Children (3-16 years): £8.00. Please be aware this event takes you on a journey around the Cathedral and may include steps up and down in places. There will be a ramp and wheelchair lift in place, which will be operated by a trained steward on the night. In addition, as Luxmuralis is a show of light, this event may not be suitable for visitors with sensitivity to flashing/moving light.
For information and booking visit: www.visitwinchester.co.uk/event/the-elements-immersive-light-andsound-show-by-luxmuralis-at-winchester-cathedral/
‘The Elements’ Immersive Light and Sound Show by Luxmuralis at Winchester Cathedral - 6 Mar to 11 Mar 2023
Spring is a great time for lawn improvements - As the days lengthen and warm, recovery is rapid. Spring renovation work will help your lawn become what you want it to be. We've helped hundreds of customers improve their lawns - now is the ideal time to improve yours.
Lawn Moss Control - Lawn moss can seriously impact grass health. Our moss treatment and moss removal (scarification) services will reduce lawn moss issues and help your grass through the challenges of winter.
FREE moss treatment with every scarification 25% off all treatment plans booked this month
Limited availability so call now to avoid disappointment
Upto 50m2 £5.90 a month
Add £1.60 for each additional 50m2
3 visits a year
Winter Moss Control
Six-month Lawn Fertiliser Essential Weed Control
Grub Monitoring Service
Upto 50m2 £12.60 a month
Add £4.20 for each additional 50m2
5 visits a year
Winter Moss Control
Winter Lawn Tonic
Spring Fertiliser
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Summer Fertiliser
Summer Weed Control
Autumn Fertiliser
Autumn Moss Inhibitor
Autumn Weed Control
Grub Monitoring Service, Disease Detection
pH Testing
Upto 50m2 £22.00 a month
Add £6.30 for each additional 50m2
6 visits a year
Winter Moss Control
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One off treatments from £30 - We also provide full lawn make-overs, over-seeding, and top-dressing. Hard surface weed control for gravel or paved drives, paths, and patios. Call now to arrange your first treatment visit and FREE full lawn analysis survey. Our work is fully guaranteed, check our website for more information.
ARFC in common with most other rugby clubs is essentially a family affair and like all families, it has its ups and downs where relationships and loyalties are tested. Players and volunteers join and leave, the club’s results wax and wane, but to maintain and sustain our club we need to take stock from time to time and that time is now.
Superficially, we’re in reasonable shape with great pitches, a solid supporter and sponsor base and a thriving minis group. However, scratching the surface reveals a dwindling adult player base and a general lack of volunteers to fill officers’ roles within the club. We’re not quite at a crisis point, but we need a reset to galvanise the club as we enter our 32nd year in the 2023-24 season to ensure we’re still here in 2024-25! The current season has been particularly challenging as immediately before its start our coach quit. He felt unable to justify his cost to the club citing the low numbers attending training/coaching sessions, the lack of opportunity to prepare players properly for contact due to the hard summer pitches and that we had ‘lost’ some regular 1st team players to local clubs offering financial inducements along with others moving away from the area. I asked the players whether they were prepared to fulfil fixtures but concede points in largely non-competitive or ‘training’ games to avoid dropping out of the Hampshire leagues altogether. Their answer was an emphatic “No, we want competitive rugby or no rugby at all!”
The upshot was that we’ve remained competitive in the Hampshire Counties leagues albeit the 1sts are likely to go down to Counties 3 and the 2nds to remain in Counties 5 next season.
The 1st team captain, James Airey and his vice-captain, Alex Janes along with the Vagrants’ (2nd team) Manager Gavin Janisch, stepped in as player-coaches and have done a remarkable job under extremely difficult circumstances to field teams that have been as competitive as ever. The club’s ethos has never changed as we’re only here to provide an opportunity to play rugby for the sheer enjoyment it brings. Rugby’s core values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship will also never change. ARFC have the reputation of being “Hampshire’s Friendliest Club” as we take inclusivity very seriously, whether you’re a new player or an opponent. The inclusivity and friendliness are amply demonstrated during our occasional club lunches and post-match, joint celebrations with our opponents.
Turning to the club’s officers, there has been a considerable churn or “crew change” on the ARFC Committee and as a result, we have several positions that are unfilled or likely to be vacant next season, which include but are not limited to:
• Head Coach
• 1st Team Manager
• 2nd Team Manager
• Deputy Chairman
• Treasurer
• Social Secretary
Anyone interested is cordially invited to chat through roles and responsibilities on an informal and non-committal basis with the undersigned.
John Weston - Chairman ARFC
john.weston@ulysses-pm.com
07972 712381
An evening of stand-up comedy from Pete Firman, Sikisa, Sean McLoughlin, Mike Cox (MC). Line up subject to change. Pete Firman is the UK's leading comedian/magician and a TV regular. Live performances have taken him all over the world and his one-man shows have entertained sell-out audiences for 10 years in a row at the Edinburgh Fringe and on several UK tours.
Sikisa is a comedian, writer and producer from South London who has never forgotten her Barbadian roots (yes, the country famous for rum and Rihanna). Sikisa has been named one to watch with her authentic, fearless and vivacious personality and on-stage presence since winning the public's vote in the 2017 BBC New Comedy Award competition, for which she was a finalist. She has quickly made a name for herself on the comedy circuit with her unique style and has become a regular performer and MC at some of the UK's favourite comedy nights. She's also a two-time Leicester Festival Aware nominee for Best Newcomer 2020 and Best appearance 2021 with her work in progress shows.
Sean McLoughlin is an acclaimed stand-up and writer based in London. Hugely in-demand in the UK and internationally, he has made appearances on Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, The Stand-Up Sketch Show and Kevin Hart's LOL Network among others. He has recently supported Ricky Gervais on his international arena tour having previously opened for Bill Burr at the Royal Albert Hall and appeared at a gala show at the Sydney Opera House. He has performed solo tours across Europe, Australia and North America and has released two hugely successful U.S. comedy albums.
Mike Cox (MC)
Mike has been performing comedy since 2011 and quickly made his mark on the comedy scene with his sharp witted observational style which saw him crowned South Coast Comedian of the Year in 2014 as well as making the final of the prestigious Amused Moose Laugh Off in 2016. Mike can be seen at comedy clubs up and down the UK.
Fri 10 Mar 2023 7.30pm - Tickets from £15
Members - 10% off tickets (excluding band C)
Theatre Royal Winchester, Jewry Street, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 8SB
For more information and booking visit: theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk
Award winning landscape design and construction from a small environmental friendly professional local company of skilled craftsmen
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Award winning landscape design and construction from a small environmentally friendly professional local company of skilled craftsmen
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Soberton, Hampshire, SO32 3QG
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
A lush green lawn is a source of pride for any homeowner, but when moss starts taking over, it can be a frustrating and unsightly problem. Removing moss from your lawn is essential to promote healthy grass growth and improve the overall appearance of your garden. One of the most effective ways to remove moss from your lawn is by using a powered scarifier in the spring. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of using a scarifier and how to manage a mossy lawn.
You may be wondering, what is moss? How does moss grow? Why is moss a problem for my lawn?
Moss can quickly take over a lawn, out competing the grass and creating unsightly areas of lawn. While moss may seem harmless, it can actually be a sign of an underlying problem with your lawn, such as poor drainage or compacted soil. Lawn compaction can be a contributing factor as compacted soil typically retains more moisture. Moss thrives in damp and shaded areas, and can quickly spread, out-competing your grass, and leaving your lawn looking patchy and unhealthy.
Understanding how moss grows is crucial to removing it effectively. Moss spreads through spores or small clippings in your mower that break off from the main plant. Unlike grass, which has a deep root system, moss attaches itself to the surface of the soil and absorbs water and nutrients through its leaves. This makes it relatively easy to remove with a scarifier but don’t underestimate the physical difficulty of this tiring job or the amount of moss that will need to be cleared up afterwards.
Scarification is an intensive process, especially if your lawn is particularly mossy or has not been scarified for a number of years. It’s important to mow the grass as short as possible before scarifying, so as to expose moss and reduce the grass leaf length to limit the possibility of the scarifier ripping out the grass plant along with the moss. Be sure to collect the clippings in our mower’s grass box or you will have more clearing up to do afterwards.
Scarification is an intensive process. It removes thatch and moss from your lawn. Lawns with extensive moss can be left looking a little bare after the moss has been removed. We should work to support the recovery of the lawn after moss removal is completed. Over-seeding these bare patches can
help to fill in the areas with new grass, making your lawn look fuller and healthier. Newer grass varieties are greener, deeper rooted, more drought and disease resistant. Introducing these new grass varieties to your lawn will greatly improve its appearance and vigour. The ideal time to over-seed is after scarification when seed can easily come into contact with bare soil which will help germination and young grass plant development.
It's a good idea to fertilise the lawn after scarifying as this can help to promote healthy grass re-growth and prevent moss from returning in the future. The type of fertiliser used is important too as you want to allow the new seed to germinate, and the young grass plants to establish, without too much competition from the original plants that are recovering. The correct balance of nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus is key to success.
After scarification, measures should be taken to kill any moss spores or remaining pieces of moss. Failing to do this can spread moss around the lawn and this will re-establish in the exposed soil before the grass recovers to compete with it. Ensuring bare areas are seeded and the lawn is correctly fed will encourage strong grass recovery to compete with moss. But it is essential not to skip the moss treatment after scarification – many people forget this.
Incorrect mowing practices are a significant contributing factor to moss establishing in a lawn and out-competing the grass plants. The most common mistakes are infrequent mowing and mowing too short which will weaken grass. Also, mowing into existing moss will cut off part of the moss and spread it around the lawn allowing it to establish in new areas. If there is no grass leaf above the height of the moss, grass will not be able to compete for light.
Preventing moss from returning to your lawn requires a combination of good lawn maintenance practices and addressing the underlying conditions that allowed the moss to grow in the first place. Seasonal moss prevention treatments, along with proper fertilisation, and good soil management practices such as aeration and dethatching are essential. If you have a lawn that tends to get mossy then a light scarification each year will help with this. Getting the balance of treatments and mechanical work right is essential. Speak to a lawncare professional for advice.
Ian Kenyon sits on the committee of the UK Lawn Care Association and owns Shrekfeet Independent Lawncare. He is always happy to offer friendly, professional advice and help: T: 01962 460146 www.shrekfeet.com
A garden should add real value to your home if done properly, in the same way an extension or well designed interior can do so too. It is therefore a great investment. You also want to enjoy this outside ‘room’ of your house to the maximum, otherwise it is simply wasted space.
At DP Garden Design we will take the surrounding area, style of our clients home, scale, materials and planting into consideration to design an outdoor space you will treasure large or small.
• Site Analysis
• Complete bespoke design package
• Planting plans & Plant Sourcing
• Setting out and Construction Drawings
• Management of tender process with landscape contractors
• Project Management
• Maintenance Plans
Please contact us on info@dpgardendesign.co.uk, 07376114531, and visit our website at www.dpgardendesign.co.uk
Supply and planting large specimen trees and shrubs
Espalier, pleached and instant impact hedges
All trees and shrubs
carefully selected
Design, landscaping and ongoing maintenance
Free site visit and consultation
Bosque is a trading name of Just Limegrass Ltd.
Harko: 07710 502798
Tom: 07855 656984
www.bosque international.co.uk
An innovative scheme to help people’s wellbeing by immersing in stunning landscape and history has been launched.
Timescape will encourage people to take “time out” and get involved in nature-based arts and crafts, as well as enjoy walking trails in the tranquil surrounds of the South Downs. The project will be based at Amberley Museum in West Sussex and Butser Ancient Farm, near Waterlooville, in Hampshire.
Twelve sessions will take place at each venue and activities will include printing, pottery, carving, weaving and felting – all inspired by the incredible heritage of the locations. The sessions, which are free, will run at Amberley from February to July and at Butser from July to September.
Kate Drake, Health and Wellbeing Officer for the National Park, said: “We’re really excited to launch Timescape for 2023 and offer these two wonderful venues for these wellness sessions.
“We know connecting with National Parks can do wonders for mental and physical health. The growing evidence shows that people who have accessed green spaces report a reduction in stress, fatigue, anxiety and depression and this is certainly reflected in the testimonials we’ve had from similar projects in the National Park.
“These Timescape sessions are particularly tailored for people who may be experiencing issues such as stress, isolation, loneliness, anxiety or depression, and we hope to hear from people right across the region. These venues are both bursting with history, so it’s
almost like stepping out of your busy life and being transported to another time when you visit them!”
The project, now in its second year, is part of the National Park’s “natural health” strategy. The National Park’s first Health and Wellbeing Strategy was published two years ago, setting out a vision to connect more people with nature to help improve both mental and physical health.
The plans include working with GPs, healthcare and communitybased providers to deliver more opportunities for “green social prescribing”. A GP or social prescriber may refer a patient for non-clinical services that boost health, such as walking or cycling in the South Downs, becoming involved in arts-based activities or surveying wildlife.
The long-term strategy also identifies priority areas in the region where the Authority will work with communities, partners and healthcare providers to help more people discover the wellness benefits of the National Park.
Anyone interested in taking part in Timescape Residencies can email kate.drake@southdowns.gov.uk
Referrals from healthcare providers and their client groups are also welcome.
For more details, case studies, research and information for professionals on health and wellbeing in the National Park visit www.southdowns.gov.uk/health-and-wellbeing/
• 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
I am an experience ladies hairstylist working in Alresford and the surrounding areas. I offer services including cuts, blowdries, Bridal and occasion hair. To get in touch please message or call
We carried out a short survey in November 2022 and we are pleased to present the results. Firstly, there were five questions and the findings from those are as follows:
• 68% of respondents reported that they were satisfied or very satisfied with being able to book an appointment of their choice.
• 89.4% of respondents felt we communicate well or extremely well.
• 68% of respondents found being redirected to other services such as minor eye conditions service or musculoskeletal assessment helpful or very helpful.
• 79% of respondents felt we responded well or extremely well to the Covid pandemic.
• Overall, 74.5% of respondents are satisfied or somewhat satisfied with the service they receive from Alresford Surgery.
As well as the five questions the survey included the facility to add comments. Summarising the comments, you said:
I’d like a face-to-face appointment with the doctor of my choice, at a convenient time and easily bookable either online or on the telephone without a long wait. We have looked carefully at the comments and, considering the results of the questions too we have undertaken the following actions:
• More clinicians – two additional GPs starting work at Alresford Surgery in early 2023
• Working with the other local practices we are now offering evening and weekend appointments
• Our telephone system, and in particular the queueing system, came in for much criticism. We are working closely with our telecoms supplier to try and make improvements
• We are making many more GP appointments available to book online.
• Patients can choose whether they would prefer a face-to-face or telephone appointment, at the point of booking.
• We will aim to make our newsletters free from jargon and as timely and informative as we can. We will also look at how we use other methods of getting information out to our patients.
• Our receptionists have been trained to ask some basic questions about your condition in order to direct you to the most appropriate appointment and with the most appropriate clinician. This may be with your usual GP to discuss an ongoing problem, or it may be another service at the surgery such as a musculoskeletal assessment with a physiotherapist or a service such as the Minor Eye Conditions Service at one of the local participating opticians.
We are very grateful to all who participated in our survey.
Adult Flu
We still have a small supply of flu vaccines available for any at risk 18-64 year old. If you would like to book in for your flu job, please contact Reception.
As students start to return to school, it’s important to be aware of the winter illnesses currently circulating and the best ways to protect your child and others. In this blog, we set out some of the simple actions that parents of school age children can take to help protect their families and those around them.
What’s the current situation?
We are seeing high levels of flu and COVID-19, which is likely to continue in coming weeks. We are also still seeing high numbers of scarlet fever,
which is caused by the bacteria Group A streptococcus. You can read more information about strep A here. Read more about the symptoms of scarlet fever here.
There are things we can all do to help stop the spread of infections; teaching young people to do these things will help them to stay well and protect others.
1. Staying home when unwell
Knowing when your child should stay at home from school or nursery if they are poorly can help slow the spread of many winter illnesses.
• If your child is unwell and has a fever, they should stay home from school or nursery until they feel better, and the fever has resolved.
• If your child has diarrhoea and/or vomits, they should stay off school or nursery for at least 48 hours after their symptoms clear up. Adults should try to stay home when unwell too. Children with a runny nose, sore throat, or slight cough who are otherwise well and do not have a high temperature can continue to attend their education or childcare setting.
2. Hand hygiene
Hand-washing is one the most effective ways to stop germs from spreading. Regularly washing hands in soap and warm water for 20 seconds or using hand sanitiser when out and about can help you and your child to stay well and not pass on germs.
3. Catching coughs and sneezes
Using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes and then binning it before washing your hands with soap and water or hand sanitiser can help to stop infection from spreading. Teaching children this habit and providing them with tissues will help them to not pass on germs when they are unwell. Our e-bug resources for Early Years can help you to explain to your child what good hygiene habits are, how they can practise them and why they are important.
4. Get vaccinated
Flu vaccination is still available for all eligible age groups and is the best protection against the virus. We have seen good uptake in older age groups but vaccination among young children remains low. Flu can be very unpleasant and in some cases can lead to more serious illness. Getting your child vaccinated protects them and others they come into contact with. Children are offered the quick and painless nasal spray vaccine.
Children eligible include:
• Children aged 2 and 3 on 31 August in 2022
• All primary school-aged children
• Some secondary school-aged children
• Children aged 2 to 17 years with long-term health conditions
You can find more information on getting your child vaccinated against flu, here. For adults, both flu and COVID-19 vaccinations remain available. You can read about who is eligible on the NHS UK website.
5. Use NHS resources for more information about winter illnesses
Most winter illnesses can be managed at home and NHS UK has lots of information available to parents:
• Information about flu symptoms and treating them at home
• Information about COVID-19 in children
• Information about scarlet fever symptoms and managing the illness
• Information about fevers in children and how to manage them
Alresford Surgery, Station Rd, New Alresford, Alresford SO24 9JL
In a world of so much uncertainly and conflict Southampton Philharmonic Choir return to O2 Guildhall Southampton in March with a concert programme focusing on peace and eternal light. The concert opens with the ever popular and evocative Lark Ascending for solo violin and orchestra, written in 1914, at the start of World War 1. Based on the poem of the same name by George Meredith, it is in part a celebration of British pastoral life, at a time when there was a genuine fear for its loss. The piece ends with the sound of the lark ascending out of sight into the light.
Vaughan Williams composed Dona Nobis Pacem in 1936, a time of concern at the approach of another war despite the vivid memory of World War 1, in which he had served. It uses poems by Walt Whitman, a political speech that tried to prevent the Crimean War and passages from the Bible extolling the futility of war and the desire we all have for peace. The music is intense, dramatic yet lyrical; one of the finest of all the composer’s works.
Howard Goodall’s Eternal Light (2008) is described by the composer as a Requiem for the living, providing solace for the grieving and focusing on the consequences of interrupted lives. A work full of warm lyricism and reassuring calm. Goodall - well known for Vicar of Dibley, is one of the most talented and approachable composers of our time.
Performing with us for the first time is the Docklands Sinfonia, who describe themselves as a diverse, dynamic & versatile symphony orchestra; a major cultural force in Docklands and beyond - bringing high quality music to the area, staging ground-breaking concerts and creating a lasting legacy by inspiring generations of young people. We are delighted to welcome them and our two soloists to Southampton.
Join us, tickets are on sale now and available online from O2 Guildhall Southampton - www.O2guildhallsouthampton.co.uk
Featherstone’s English Flower Co. is a sustainable flower farm and florist in Nether Wallop, offering a full floristry service, events and workshops.
Natural, compostable and reusable methods are used to create beautiful arrangements with an organic style.
Bouquets • Events • Weddings • Funerals • Pick Your Own • Workshops • Flower Club • Subscriptions • Buckets of Blooms
www.featherstoneflowers.co.uk
@featherstoneflowers 01264 302980
Davina's is a leader of Mother of the Bride/Groom outfits ideal for that special wedding whether in church, at a registry office or in an outstanding venue, here or abroad. We have over 120 outfits to choose from together with hats, hatinators, fascinators, shoes and clutch bags making it a 'one-stop shop'
Marble Summer Collection Just Arrived
Tel: 01489 880900 or shop online at:
www.davinasladiesfashion.co.uk
7 Warsash Road, Warsash, Southampton, SO31 9HW
Open Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm
We are your local independent fashion retailer located in Warsash adjacent to the Coop and Clocktower. We have been established for 25 years, originally in Fareham and now in Warsash since 2018. We have built our reputation selling outstanding Mother of the Bride/Groom outfits principally by Condici and John Charles, in addition to general clothing. Both labels are high quality and will make the wearer stand out at any wedding, making a son or daughter justly proud. Condici is true to size and John Charles more suited to an hour-glass figure. We also do a lighter range of clothing ideal for beach weddings in some far-off sunny clime. We have matching hats, hatinators and fascinators to 'top-off' the complete outfit as well as clutch bags and leather medium heel shoes. We pride ourselves in providing a 'one-stop shop' so you can walk away with everything you need.
We welcome husbands, partners and family members coming with you to add their opinions in making that important choice. We expect you to try on several outfits before refining them to a final 2 or 3 from which to make the eventual choice. You will never be under any time or other pressure to buy. Our aim is for you to enjoy the experience and purchase only when you are completely satisfied. You are our best advert if you go away and recommend us to your friends.
Find us next to the Coop near the Clocktower. Free car parking for 4 hours available opposite."
Do visit our website at www.davinasladiesfashion.co.uk which is a showcase of some of what we have to offer.
Ragamuffin
NEW SEASON New Baby! By Spanish Designer Mayoral £27.50
2 Bakehouse Yard, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 734488 | www.ragamuffin-uk.com
D.Barker & Son Silver 'Ponza' pendant by Sif Jakobs at £56.00 40A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 732200 | www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
#shoplocal #supportsmallbusinesses
Enticing and eclectic items now available on your high street this summer. Stay local and support your diverse retailers!
Andrew Smith & Son Auctioneers
Fine Art, Antiques & Decorative Interiors Auction. Tue 28th, Wed 29th and Thur 30th March from 9.30am Tel: 01962 735988 | www.andrewsmithandson.com
The Alresford Gift Shop
Mother's Day collections in stock - beautiful cards and Spring gifts
Tel: 01962 732192 | alresfordgiftshop.co.uk
Interior Style
Decorative tea light holder £55 29 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 736311 | www.interiorstyle.biz
Kingsworthy Foundry
Pit Barrel BBQ & Smoker. The future of charcoal grilling is here.This amazing 'set & forget' outdoor grill is this years must have! From £295 Tel: 01962 883776 | www.kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk
Sole Butchers
Don't forget to order now for Easter. Fresh spring lamb and free range oven ready poultry
Tel: 01962 735221 | solebutchersofalresford.co.uk
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.
email: skiwear@polarexchange.co.uk www.polarexchange.co.uk | 07783 538389 | 07767 238874
Gather your favourite people for a woodfired feast in the historic rusticluxe surroundings of The Wellhouse in Winchester. Where you can see, smell and taste the delights of our brand new woodfired Sunday Lunch at Lainston House.
From Sunday 2nd April, 12pm to 4pm
Two courses £41.95 per person
Three courses £49.95 per person
01962 776088
lainstonhouse@exclusive.co.uk exclusive.co.uk/sundaylunch
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
A hearty warming meal for the winter months
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 chorizo sausages, cut into 1cm-thick slices
• 1 medium brown onion, thinly sliced
• 1 large red pepper, thickly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tablespoon of Paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 dried bay leaf
• 2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 x 400g cans cannellini beans, rinsed, drained
• 2 x 400g can chopped tomatoes
• Small bunch fresh parsley to garnish
Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chorizo for 4-5 mins or until light golden. Use a slotted spoon to transfer chorizo to a 4.5L slow cooker.
Heat the pan over medium-high heat. Cook the onion, capsicum and garlic, stirring, for 5 mins or until soft. Add the paprika, cumin, bay leaf and oregano and cook, stirring, for 1 min or until fragrant. Add the capsicum mixture, vinegar, tomato paste, beans and tomatoes to the slow cooker. Cook, covered, on low for 4 hrs.
Sprinkle with parsley. Serve with crusty bread or rolls. For those who prefer a little more spice to their meal and 1/2 a teaspoon of hot chilli powder.
We are a local independent family run business which operates on a 24 hours basis. You will always have a personal continuity and we will go through all the arrangements and look after you throughout. Also located in
You are an extension of our family when in our care
Treat Mum to the Mother of all gifts this Mother's Day; a wonderful paddle to the pub on the Beaulieu River with New Forest Activities. You'll enjoy a gentle guided tour through the idyllic Beaulieu River Nature Reserve, ending at the Master Builder's pub to enjoy a glass of bubbly by the riverside to celebrate all things, Mum.
So why not let Mum relax, feel spectacular and take in the views whilst enjoying some boating and bubbles on the Beaulieu Rivershe deserves it after all! Takes place on the 19 Mar 2023 Sunday: 10:00 - 11:30, 12:30 - 14:00, 15:00 - 16:30
See the New Forest Activities website for available dates and times. https://www.newforestactivities.co.uk/seasonal/mothers-daypaddle
0792 100 1265 E: cath@mvennconstruction.com
Each month I set up new computers and now find the Windows experience to be ridiculous. There are far too many “trial” software programmes preloaded. Why is it necessary to have Microsoft 365 in French, German, Italian and Dutch in the installed apps list plus, Microsoft One Note in the same choice of languages. That’s before the Anti-Virus software, free for 30 days. If you make the mistake of doing that you will be pestered to unlock a lot of extra features. The bottom line is that they want your money. Microsoft provide, free of charge, a perfectly good protection package. If that is not good enough for you, then consider purchasing a third-party software. Then Microsoft try and force you to use their Edge internet browser and if you try to install Google’s Chrome you will be pestered into keeping Edge as the default browser. To change from Edge to Chrome you need to go into the Settings app and change a list of browser settings one by one. Why can’t Microsoft make all these features available as options when you set up a new device?
If you buy a Mac laptop, or desktop, the setup procedure is far more simplified. No preinstalled third-party apps and you will only be asked once to use Chrome instead of Safari! If you are concerned about the price difference between a Windows laptop and a MacBook, consider buying an iPad with a keyboard. The new iPad (10th generation) is an excellent alternative. I do not sell hardware; I offer unbiased advice for anyone wishing to buy a new device. Those of you that have used my services will know that I usually recommend purchasing from John Lewis, for the extra free period of warranty. Setting up a new machine correctly from new is the best route to follow for a trouble-free experience in the future.
Andy – Mr Mac 07392 552 592
April
Alresford Chamber of Commerce Environmental Alliance Project which is looking into help develop market towns like our own to consolidate the waste collection in town, and Stephanie Swan, Events Manager for The Watercress Line who talked about the Coronation Ideas and also about ways in which The Watercress Line can work with the Chamber. Our New Chair Estelle Bentham said it’s a pleasure to have been voted as Chair and is excited to be working with Co-Ordinating Alresford and The Watercress Line.
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 1st April running right through to 15th 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, and to have the chance to win either the 1st, 2nd or 3rd Prize 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.
The Chamber held it’s AGM on Tuesday 7th February at The Swan Hotel, Alresford, we had an excellent turn out and send our thanks to everyone who attended, it was also wonderful to have two speakers – Stuart Evans who spoke about a new environmental initiative the
We are happy to announce Alresford Financial Services Top Floor, 3 East Street, Alresford as our recent New Member to the Chamber. They provide quality mortgage advise as well as other financial services and will writing. If this is something you are in need of, why not pop in to see if Michael Daniels can help.
Keep track of our events, follow us on Facebook Twitter & Instagram @AlresfordChamberofCommerce / AlresfordCofC / info@ alresfordchamber.co.uk /www.alresfordchamber.co.uk
The Council have leased an area of land on Spring Gardens from the Tichborne Estate for the provision of new allotments. The first phase of clearance work at the site has been undertaken, and during February and March our ecologist
will be using refugia/ cover objects to locate grass snakes and slow worms previously identified at the site. This will allow him to determine whether these will need to be relocated or can be worked around, during the next stage of clearance works. The ecologist’s work is likely to be finished at the end of April and we hope the next stage of clearance and site preparation at the allotments can begin in early Summer.
Please support your Library
The Town Assembly will take place on Monday 6th March, 19:30 at Alresford Recreation Centre. This is an opportunity to hear from the Councillors about NATC work over the last year, along with grants that have been awarded to local organisations. We will also have two speakers from Winchester Action on Climate Change speaking about home energy, and another on Community defibrillators in Alresford. Nibbles and refreshments will be provided, and we would be delighted to have you join us.
January saw two grants awarded to Friends of Sun Hill Infant School to help with resources for the new pre-school. In addition, the Senior citizens lunch club received a grant for a day trip out with lunch.
Works to rebuild and stabilise the slope behind Sun Hill Recreation Ground playground will be undertaken in late March/ early April, alongside additional works to improve the access down the slope from the corner of the Recreation Ground near the entrance from Benenden Green. The playground will remain in operation but other areas in the Recreation Ground will be cornered off as required.
The council has had a number of residents enquiring about photocopying since the closure of Oakleaf Stationers in West Street. Did you know that Alresford library offers photocopying. The opening hours are Tuesdays 1-5pm, Thursdays 9.30pm, Fridays 1-5pm and on Saturday’s 9.30-1.30pm
The RSPB recommends avoiding cutting during the main breeding season for nesting birds. Weather depending, this runs from March 1st to August 31st each year.
Please be sure to have any of your hedges or trees which overhang public footpaths, pavements or roads cut or trimmed to avoid any obstruction to pedestrians and highways.
www.newalresford-tc.gov.uk
FOR:
TEL: 01962 865602
MOBILE: 07752 570787 OR VISIT
PRIVATE HIRE AIRPORT TRANSFERS
OTHER JOURNEYS
Standards you can rely on for airport, ferry port and city transfers
Carpe Diem Executive Cars has built its reputation for excellence, professionalism and reliability offering a premium service at competitive prices
Contact us today and leave the rest to us
Tel: 0330 6600 029 Mob: 07801 816 062
email: franco@carpediemec.com
www.carpediemec.com
Engine Diagnostics
Offsite M.O.T Tests
Nissan Elgrand Specialists
Cambelt Replacement Exhaust Supply & Fitting
Tyre Supply & Fitting Electrical Repairs Clutch Repair Courtesy Car Opening Times Mon - Thur 8-5pm Friday 8-3pm
Contact Steve on: 01962 735777
See on Facebook: alresfordservicepointltd Shelf House, New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QE
L.P.G.A approved autogas conversions
www.autogas.com
Allows your petrol engine vehicle to run on Autogas, a fuel costing approximately 76p per ltr, with the environmental benefits of a 20% reduction in carbon dioxide production and 2000 times fewer particulates produced from the exhaust fumes when compared with a diesel. Widely available across the country and locally in Winnall, Winchester and West Meon Hut service station. The government has committed to this fuel difference for the future.
M.O.T Testing Centre
Class 7 Vans from 3,000 - 3,500kg
Class 4 Cars and Vans up to 3,000kg
All makes of cars and vans serviced and repaired All makes of truck and horsebox up to 7500kg maintained and prepared for ministry plating tests
CERTIFICATED ENGINEERS • RECOVERY AVAILABLE •
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/getmore-help/report-to-trading-standards/ Lent came quickly after Dry January this year!
HCC’s Public Health Director, Simon Bryant recently briefed County Councillors on the County’s renewed Drug and Alcohol strategy .Over ¼ million people in Hampshire are drinking more than 14 units a week. Most of us don’t know exactly what this means for our own drinking habits. If you’d like to know more about the units and calories in alcohol with information, advice and a ‘help’ button please use this link to the website, or I can post information through your door on request.
It was a delight to wish the Kauras well after over 20 years at Kings Worthy Post Office. Like everyone in our Post offices across the division, they have given sterling service, started early every morning, working seven days a week - so they deserve a break! Our thanks must go to Liz Kavanagh (and all of you) who raised funds through crowdfunder towards their post-retirement holiday! Thank you to all their newspaper deliverers too.
I hear from residents who have concerns about paying for a services that aren’t up to scratch. This ranges from a Warmer Homes scheme to a Newspaper Delivery service. HCC’s Trading Standards have a contract with Citizens Advice to enable residents to register consumer queries and complaints. Below is the website link, but you can search ‘ Citizens Advice ‘and choose the ‘consumer’ tab. You can phone too: 0808 223 1133.
https://www.hants.gov.uk/socialcareandhealth/ publichealth/alcoholawareness
HCC’s Revenue Budget was finalised in February so that you receive your Council Tax demand in time for the new financial year 23/24. HCC is budgeting turnover of around £2.6 billion. There is an expected £58m budget to fund, even after using some reserves to plug the spending gap. HCC proposed 4.99% increase (ie: £1460.25 for Band D, an increase of £1.34 a week or £69.68 a year). Capital Funding over the next three years is expected to be £645.3m- much of this is generated by funds from developers for schools etc.
Waste sites take many forms, but the County‘s Minerals and Waste plan has to cover them all. This includes mineral extraction, and incineration as well as the disposal of domestic and
to meet some of the other owls in our care, where we’ll give you an insight to some of the conservation and research projects that we undertake with British owls.
Feathers Restaurant will be serving a delicious menu to keep you feeling warm throughout the evening. From hearty meals, to tempting treats and cosy coffees, complete your evening out with some delicious food and drink before meeting our owls!
commercial waste. I made a full response to the County’s Minerals and Waste draft plan including :-
• objection to the principle of extraction of oil and gas.
• objection to the principle of waste sites remaining forever as waste sites: a policy which would render the county littered with waste sites.
• objection to the principle of waste sites in rural areas using smaller roads. I proposed that sites should only be serviced by main trunk roads.
• safeguarding for inland rail depots: sites must link direct to trunk roads: uses should not include waste treatment or processing. I hope that these measures could protect residents‘ environment in the division (litter, noise, smell, light etc) whilst ensuring we have well run minerals and waste sites to accommodate the range of recyclable materials as opportunities increase.
Cart and Horses junction: our campaign hasn’t stopped: but we are still awaiting the (very slow) Accident Investigation report. I will update you, hopefully very soon. Meanwhile the National Highways M3 junction 9 application is now with the Planning Inspectorate. For the timeline and more information, please see information on www.nationalhighways.co.uk
Contact Jackie : Jackie.Porter@hants.gov.uk, tel: 01962 791054 (ansaphone) 07973696085, (text)
notice, if necessary. Terms and conditions apply. Come along wrapped up warm, and step out into the darkness with the owls.
Tickets: £21.50.11th March 2023 and 18th March 2023.
Doors open 5.45pm | Flying display commences 7pm
This spring, join us for a special evening with our owls! As night falls, you’ll experience our mystical owls and witness their graceful, silent flights in and out of the darkness over our Savannah Arena and amongst mysterious woodland.
Before the flying displays, there will be chance to have sumptuous dinner in Feathers Restaurant and explore parts of our grounds
The evening will include two different flying displays in our Woodland and Savannah Arenas. These evenings are very popular, so book early. Come along wrapped up warm, and step out into the darkness with our owls. Although lighting is provided, we recommend bringing along a small torch, but do ask that you don’t shine it directly into any aviaries or during the flying displays.
The Trust reserves the right to vary the content and format of any event, without
Approved by trading standards
AS YOU CAN SEE FROM THE LACK OF AVAILABLE CARS BELOW, NOW WOULD BE A FANTASTIC TIME TO SELL ANY CAR NOT BEING USED AND GET A GREAT PRICE FOR IT.
The following cars have been carefully selected because of their low mileage, excellent condition and service history.
2019 (19) Honda Jazz 1.3 EX Nav Automatic, 5 door, Sat Nav, front and rear parking sensors rear camera, climate control, cruise control, 21,000 miles £16,395
2016 (16) Nissan Note N-Tec 1.2, £20 road tax, sat nav, Climate and cruise control, parking camera, 18,000 miles. £SOLD
2018 (68) Hyundai i10 S, 5 door 21,000 miles £7995
2014 (14) Skoda Rapid 1.6 TDi Elegance, Automatic, sat nav, air conditioning, cruise control, parking sensors, Panoramic moon roof, 1 owner 59,000 miles £SOLD
VIEW OUR CURRENT STOCK AT www.andrews-autosource.co.uk/vehicles-for-sale
PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL CARS HAVE SERVICE HISTORY
BRAMDEAN GARAGE, A272, BRAMDEAN TEL: 07811 041653 OR TEL: 01962 732 995
• Welding specialists
• Tyres for cars and motorcycles
• 4 wheel laser alignment
• LPG for sale for cars
• Free collection
• Diagnostic testing (including Landrover)
• Courtesy cars
• Recovery services Tel: 01962 733888
• Certificated engineers
MOT's WHILE YOU WAIT
At Town and Country, we take pride in ensuring every client receives the best customer service, from the informative and knowledgeable sales process through to the extensive after sales care.
Our boutique showroom showcases some of the finest kitchen and bathroom furniture available, with a strong emphasis on UK and European manufacturing. Bathroom manufacturers on display include Ambiance Bain, Pelipal, Hansgrohe, Roper Rhodes and Miller of Sweden, with Porcelanosa and Ca’Pietra tiling throughout the showroom. Our kitchens are expertly crafted by Schuller, the second largest German kitchen manufacturer, and Uform. Both have an extensive and inspiring collection ranging from the contemporary to the more traditional.
Please contact us regarding our complementary design and quotation service, we look forward to hearing from you.
Visit Town & Country
8 The High Street, Botley, Southampton, Hampshire, SO3O 2EA
Telephone: 01489 536187
Email: sales@town-and-country.co.uk
www.town-and-country.co.uk
The Town Trust held the following open days in 2022: * 8 days at the Museum, * 6 days at the Eel House, * 4 days at the Norman Bridge. There were 3847 visitors who donated £1968 plus gift aid. Visitors arrived from at least 10 different countries as well as from all parts of Hampshire.
Trustee Roy Gentry organised the Museum events and was ably supported by Ann and Rich Pay. Trustees Penny Mcclelland and Vanessa Andrews with volunteers ,including Rotary who manned a complete day , covered the Eel House,whilst Trustee Robin Atkins and Caroline Perry were the stalwarts at the Norman Bridge. The Trust's next open days are on 10th April 2023 and the remaining dates are on the Trust's website. There are also 3 specialists markets during 2023. *French - 9th April, *Brocante 1st May and 24th September.
Winchester based Chamber Choir, Southern Voices, is fast gaining a reputation for singing refined, unaccompanied, choral concerts with their new conductor Jamal Sutton (MA BMus (Cantab) ARCO). Jamal took up the post in summer 2022 and has enjoyed notable success in his first three concerts with growing audiences coming to listen to his popular and original programmes.
Following on from their sold-out Christmas Concert, the choir are looking forward to returning to Winchester’s ancient Chapel of St Cross (SO23 9SD) in a concert of German Masterpieces on Saturday 25th March at 7.30pm.
Rheinberger's Mass for double choir in E-flat (1878) is an unexpected blend of old and new. Sung in Latin this is a work to be witnessed in its full glory with the choir split into two choirs singing a total of eight voice parts in the unique acoustic of St Cross. The well-known sacred motets of Brahms and Bruckner compliment the Mass beautifully. The choir will perform seven including ‘Locus Iste’ and finishing with Bruckner’s beautiful ‘Ave Maria’.
The choir are well established in Winchester and the South. Recruitment is by audition only and rehearsals are on Monday evenings in St Paul’s, Winchester. Founded in 1984, they are making plans for their 40th Anniversary year in 2024. Keep an eye on the website: southernvoices.co.uk for more information.
Tickets £16 (Concessions £1 age 18 and under); ticketsource.co.uk/ southern-voices; Telephone 0333 666 3366 (booking fees apply); or at the door.
Registered Charity 1086868
Heritage building and conservation areas secondary glazing question to full Council. Residents have contacted me with issues over listed building and secondary glazing. I raised the question at full council for the following reasons.
1. The UK has declared a climate emergency which demands a new approach to managing change to the built environment. Taking a whole life approach to buildings means prioritising our existing buildings by making refurbishment and reuse worthwhile. Such a fully sustainable approach.
2. A low carbon future will see both the retention of most of England’s older housing stock and the improvement of its energy and carbon performance. This will help it to remain useful and viable, now and in the future, by reducing building obsolescence and increasing the life spans of buildings. Energy efficiency improvements, supported by regular maintenance and repair, can make traditional homes more comfortable and compatible with modern lifestyles as well as cheaper to run.
3. With the fuel crisis at the moment, the cost of living and many properties within our ward in a conservation area or listed, this has been very important to many residents.
4. Support from Historic England, The National Trust, The South Downs National Park along with support from many local Parish Councils on this approach.
5. Historic England said “ Improving energy efficiency will lower carbon emissions and fuel bills and often increase comfort. More broadly, improving energy efficiency forms a part of the wider objective to achieve a sustainable environment.”
6. Obviously this question was only in part of all the other efforts that residents are doing to improve energy efficiency and maintain their buildings.
ANSWER - “The Council has given permission for double-glazed windows to be installed in buildings that are in conservation areas or are Grade 2 listed and we are seeking to identify ways to make the process of cutting energy usage simpler and easier, while still ensuring that we protect our valuable local heritage. Our new draft Local Plan policy HE14 is specifically designed to encourage and enable appropriate alterations to improve the energy efficiency of listed buildings and non-designated buildings. The Council is also open to receiving applications for triple glazing. At this stage, our team is not aware of any applications to install a triple glazed window in Grade 2 listed buildings in the Winchester District but there is no reason why an appropriate application that took due account of heritage considerations and other material planning matters would be refused.”
Issues with out of hours question to Full Council. After some residents had major issues with the out of hours service, I asked what the council were planning to do to prevent it from happening again.
Reply - The Council has committed to undertaking an independent review of the Council’s Out
of Hours service. In addition, the out of hours contingency plan has been updated to provide for housing back office call response to monitor the call demand during periods of high demand.
Elderly at risk after plumbing of new boiler issues left for 6 weeks
I was contacted by local residents who were concerned about an elderly vulnerable lady in her late 80s who had been trying to get the council to resolve the ill fitting of her new boiler that then leaked water into her kitchen. She was left trying to stop the flow of water with towels. Service engineers came out once and stated there was nothing to be done. At this point, neighbours called me asking for help. I raised an emergency complaint which was then escalated after another service engineer attended for 5 minutes and told the resident they would be back in a week. Within 24 hours I had raised it as an official complaint and a major concern and it was fixed. After visiting the resident the next day I was pleased to see this issue resolved. I urge all residents to please contact me if they are having issues early, although this had been reported, obviously, the repair issues were not being addressed. I am raising this issue and others in my next Business and Housing Policy committee meeting.
I have reported several areas within the ward that have been damaged by the heavy rain and then the hard frost. Leaving the Tarmac raised, broken and unstable in places or just completely collapsed. I am pleased that many have been fixed or marked for repair. I find the quickest route via the Hampshire County Council website. It is referenced and trackable and you can see if the area has already been reported. Perhaps all Town and Parish Councils can remind residents the best way to do this, although I have been happy to report some issues raised, it is often quicker if the resident does it themselves.
Damaged bins and replacement policy issues raised by residents.
I have been contacted by many unhappy residents asking about damaged bin replacement policy and also the ownership of all the various bins.
Here are my questions and the answers to them.
1. Can you clarify how a fair process is put in place when Biffa damage the bins through lack of care?
• If Biffa loose a bin in the back of the vehicle this is recorded by the crew and the council on their on-board computer and automatically replaced by Biffa.
• If a bin is damaged in anyway during the emptying process this is recorded by crew on their on-board computer and notification is left for the householder. (Bins can become damaged for a number of reasons: Lack of care by the owner i.e. failure to maintain the bin, overloading the bin. Biffa also report these incidents to the council on a daily basis.
• If householder claims that the bin was damaged during the emptying process we ask Biffa to provide photographic evidence that they returned bin to collection point undamaged – Biffa have 360 degree CCTV that provides us with images –If Biffa can’t provide the evidence a final decision is made by the council.
2. What incentivised policy is in place to encourage Biffa in this process as it is not in their interest to admit liability if the householder must pay for a new bin?
• There is no policy as such - We do expect Biffa to operate in accordance with the contract specification and if they were found not to be complying there are financial penalties we can impose.
3. Can you clarify the ownership and damage policy for brown garden waste bins that some residents pay for and the glass recycling bins?
• Garden waste bins, plastic glass recycling boxes, 240ltr glass recycling banks, clear recycling sacks, garden waste sacks & healthcare waste containers are owned by the council and provided free of charge.
• Householders are responsible for providing and maintaining their refuse and recycling bins, and for replacing them if worn out, damaged, vandalised, lost or stolen. This includes if your bin has broken during a collection because it has becomes brittle due to its age which becomes increasingly likely after the bin has reached 10 years old.
• If you need to replace a worn out, damaged, vandalised, lost or stolen bin, you will need to contact Biffa directly on 01962 670 706 to arrange for payment and delivery of the new bin. The current cost of a bin is £33.98 including delivery. So to clarify - Black and Green binsowned by the householder and payment of replacements cost £33.98
Garden waste - Brown Bins, owned by the council - provided free of charge. There is an annual service charge for collecting the Garden Waste (Brown) bin of: £65 for a standard sized bin and £43 for a smaller bin Glass recycling box - Owned by the councilprovided free of charge
DOORS D
and Installing garage doors in a wide selection of styles to suit all budgets
Here’s why one of the Stockbridges’ most trusted carpet cleaning companies is cleaning local, nearneighbours carpets for a fraction of the normal cost
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by The Carpet Care People.
Our approach is simple:
We are proud to run a celebrated professional carpet and upholstery cleaning business, and we insist on providing you with good oldfashioned service and value. Call now and find out why our award-winning service is probably the most requested carpet cleaning in the local Stockbridge area
The next thing for you to do is call us on 01962 690 005we’ll welcome your call, answer your questions and take care of everything for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
With their serene beauty and intriguing wildlife, it's no surprise that our chalk streams draw people to them. But when visitors leave, they may not be alone: diseases and invasive species could be hitching a ride to their next destination. For streams that are under pressure, or home to vulnerable species, this stealthy spread can spell disaster.
Take the white-clawed crayfish, for example. This amazing animal thrives in chalk streams, where it uses the mineral-rich water to strengthen its shell. Yet it is now endangered, due largely to a water mould called ‘crayfish plague’. The mould’s carrier – the invasive signal crayfish – is mostly immune to its effects. For native crayfish, infection is usually fatal.
Unfortunately, crustaceans aren’t the only ones in trouble. Many chalk stream fish are susceptible to parasites like the fish louse, water moulds like Saprolegnia, and diseases like koi herpes virus or carp edema virus. Infection can lead to serious illness,
and even death, in iconic species like the common carp, the brown trout, and the Atlantic salmon.
On the floral front, invasive non-native plants like monkeyflower, parrot’s feather, and floating pennywort can flourish from just a sliver of root or stem. These fastgrowing species can quickly dominate a chalk stream, depriving its wildlife of sunlight and oxygen. Once established, they are very difficult to permanently remove.
Luckily, there are easy ways to enjoy our precious streams while doing your bit for biosecurity. Whether you're a paddler, an angler, or a river keeper, you have a crucial role to play in their protection. Spores, eggs, and plant fragments can survive for weeks in damp conditions, so we recommend the ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ method:
• CHECK your clothing and equipment after leaving the water. Remove any mud, aquatic animals, and plant material while on site.
• CLEAN your clothing and equipment as soon as you can, ideally with hot water. Make sure you get into all the nooks and crannies.
• DRY your clothing and equipment for as long as possible before using it again, especially if you will be visiting a different location.
Want to learn more about biosecurity? Join us at 7pm on 28th March for a free online talk; book your ticket at www.hiwwt.org.uk/ events. You can also get involved in tackling invasive species through the Watercress and Winterbournes scheme; visit www. hiwwt.org.uk/winterbournes. Our work is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Discover a world of wildlife, with our free Open Chalk Streams events this April! Visit hidden places and see familiar ones in a different way. Learn more at www.hiwwt. org.uk/winterbournes/open
The proposed budget for 22/23 sets aside funds to improve public conveniences across the district as well as continue improvements to our town centres. These works are essential to welcome visitors, tourism being an important part of our local economy, as well as to support residents. We also set aside funds to implement improved waste collection to our climate change standards when the government delivers the capital, other Carbon Reduction measures, and investing in services to save costs in the future. The proposed increase for a Band D home is £4, bringing the amount payable to £155.29 per annum. There is no certainty of funding beyond 23/24, we have only an indication for 24/25. The long-term pressures remain and justifies the investments necessary to do more with less.
There have been two routes proposed for the construction traffic to access Sun Lane. One is New Farm Road and Tichborne Down and the other is Whitehill Lane. Both routes carry severe disadvantages: White Hill Lane is narrow and in poor condition with collapsing verges. The Tichborne Down route serves housing areas and has sharp corners. No need to list all the shortcomings, as HCC Highways have rejected both routes as being impractical. HCC are now insisting that access must come across farmland from the Bishops Sutton Road. Apart from this now meaning 44 traffic movements of heavy trucks a day through Bishops Sutton, it also puts the likely entrance very close to the tight railway bridge.
We are very concerned regarding the impact on neighbouring settlements, and we will report back following a meeting with developers.
Both the rejected routes and any new proposed access would only be needed
until the new roundabout on the by-pass is completed and working, after which all access to the site will be via this new road link.
The careful and diligent process of selecting a developer for the Central Winchester Regeneration process is progressing towards the announcement of the selected partner. A final selection for the work will be announced at end of March. There has been huge interest from the market in this project with thirteen companies putting in bids initially. The winner will be from a selected shortlist of three.
The appointment of a developer/ designer will be a great step forward in the twentysix-year saga of failed attempts to sort out this neglected part of Winchester. This effort might seem excessively City centric, but it is a very important economic, social, cultural, and administrative hub for the entire district and particularly Alresford and the Itchen Valley. We are delighted with the recommended bidder.
Looking for secure storage facilities?
Looking for secure storage facilities?
Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates.
Looking for secure storage facilities?
Looking for secure storage facilities?
Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates.
Looking for secure storage facilities?
Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk
Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk
Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates.
Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates.
Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk
Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk
Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates. Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk
Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH
Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH email:storage@silkservices.co.uk Tel: 01962 771815
E: storage@silkservices.co.uk
Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH
T: 01962 771815
E: storage@silkservices.co.uk
T: 01962 771815
Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH
E: storage@silkservices.co.uk
T: 01962 771815
Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH
E: storage@silkservices.co.uk
T: 01962 771815
Whether it is an Extension, Conversion, Full Refurbishment or Renovation then look no further!
Whether it is an Extension, Conversion, Full Refurbishment or Renovation then look no further!
Silk Services are renowned for their reputation, affordability as well as providing a top quality, professional personal service no matter what your project needs.
Silk Services are renowned for their reputation, affordability as well as providing a top quality, professional service no matter what your project needs.
Nothing is too big or small for our experienced team of tradesman.
Nothing is too big or small for our experienced team of tradesmen.
Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire. SO24 0JH
W: www.silkservices.co.uk
Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH
E:jason@silkservices.co.uk
T: 01962 771815 M: 07917 150027
W: www.silkservices.co.uk
T: 01962 771815 M: 07917 150027
E: jason@silkservices.co.uk
areas – or clip it onto your phone or tablet for one-handed operation. You can take crisp thermal images and video from any position or angle with a natural grip and download the images to your phone. The FLIR ONE Edge Pro is compatible with iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.
A few tips for using the camera effectively
We are pleased to tell you that New Alresford Town Council has purchased a thermal imaging camera to help residents reduce their carbon emissions and winter fuel bills, and they have kindly gifted it to New Leaf to administer a free loan scheme!
The camera allows you to identify areas of heat loss in your home. In a typical British home, up to one third of the heat produced by the heating system can be lost through the roof, ceiling and walls. Even if you have double glazing and insulation in place, viewing your home through a thermal camera can help you identify cold spots where you are losing heat.
Thermal images are a great way of observing directly where heat is being lost from your home so that you can do something about it, for example installing additional insulation, draught excluders, radiator reflectors, thermal curtains, double or triple glazing.
The FLIR ONE Edge Pro Thermal Camera connects wirelessly to your smart device via an app, so you can easily inspect hard to reach
Great news from Godolphin this month, as they are celebrating the news that two Lower Sixth students, Liv and Tiana have been selected for the U20 England National Lacrosse Academy.
This is an outstanding achievement, as the selection process for the England Academy is incredibly competitive. This now gives these Godolphin's students the chance to represent U20 England at the Home Internationals, European and World Championships. Best of luck to them both.
The best conditions for taking thermal images from outside a property are in low light, for example after sunset or in the early morning, with low humidity and in clear conditions with a low wind speed. There should be a minimum 10°C difference between internal and external temperatures. Ideally the heating should be on for at least 8 hours before taking thermal images, this allows the building fabric to be properly warmed. However, the heating should be off when you take the images as hot radiators could have an impact. We have found the ‘rainbow’ colour palette setting most useful. You can find out more about infrared and interpreting thermal images via the FLIR website at flir.co.uk.
Borrowing the FLIR ONE Edge Pro
To borrow the thermal camera, please apply via email to enquiries@ newleafalresford.org. You will need to provide photographic proof of identity and a proof of address from the last 3 months. Once these checks have been completed, we will email you a copy the Loan Agreement for you to confirm and accept. The camera can be borrowed for up to 2 days at a time. Further details will be provided on enquiry. The thermal imager is loaned for free, although users are encouraged to make a voluntary donation to New Leaf Alresford to support the scheme.
Another way you can show your support is by sharing some of your images and offering information on how you plan to remedy the heat loss. Where adjustments are made it should be possible to evidence the impact with ‘before and after’ images.
www.newleafalresford.org
