Itchen Valley 148 - February

ITCHEN VALLEY

FORUM

FEATURES Hampshire Mum - Doggie Paddle Claire Thurlow - Country Mouse, Town Mouse Lucia Foster-Found - Live and Let Thrive (part 2)

REACHING 18,750 READERS * ITCHEN VALLEY, WINCHESTER & THE WORTHY'S ISSUE 148 • FEBRUARY

NEWS & EVENTS All the local News Alresford Town Council Reports February dates for your diary

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

DON'T FORGET WE OFFER A FREE WINTER HEALTH CHECK Is your vehicle safe?

Ensure your car is safe for the Winters inclement weather by taking advantage of our FREE visual winter health and safety check* * Fluids and parts used are chargeable

We will check: Tyres, Anti-Freeze, Wiper Blades, Lights, Visual Brake Check, Fluid Levels, Exhaust System, Battery and much more!

Call today: 01962 736343 www.phoenixautoservicesltd.co.uk Free local collection and delivery service PHOENIX AUTO SERVICES LTD, UNIT E, PROSPECT COMMERCIAL PARK, PROSPECT ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9QF

The Team Editor Mark Tubb editor@forumpublications.co.uk Director of Advertising Steve Walker stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk Advertising Manager Mandy Head mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk Director of Marketing Rob Harrison rob@forummedianddesign.co.uk

Contents 4 What's On? 6 Church Services 6

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

10 Garden Make your garden dream come true. Or visit local beautiful country gardens 14 Hampshire Mum Doggle Paddle

Design Manager James Curtis Advertising & Creative Design james@forumpublications.co.uk

28 Retail/Market Square Our regular retail feature, Unique, Bespoke, Eclectic and Local shopping 30 Leisure & Entertainment Discover local events and days out in Hampshire

34 Education Find local schools and educational experts

35 Home Trades, services, designers.

All you need for your home

17 Professional From photographers to solicitors - every professional service you need

54 Animals & Pets

20 Claire Thurlow Country Mouse, Town Mouse

MARCH COPY DEADLINE FEBRUARY 11th

21 Wellbeing Looking after your health and yourself!

24 Motoring Local services to keep your vehicles running smoothly

48 Lucia Foster-Found Live and Let Thrive

Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk

Contributors Copy Writers Gill Grant, Claire Thurlow, Lucia Foster-Found

Contact Details Forum Publications Ltd 11 Broad Street, Alresford Hampshire, SO24 9AR Tel: 01962 735137 forumpub editor@forumpublications.co.uk www.forumpublications.co.uk Printed on recycled paper

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. The 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. The Itchen Valley Forums 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. Š Forum Publications Ltd, 2019 * Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household

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CO WHAT'S MMUNITY ON? Saturday 9

Salsa Workshop

From 4pm - 7pm at Preston Candover Village Hall, RG25 2EE. Learn to dance Authentic Cuban Salsa in just one Workshop. This Workshop will take you from Beginner to Improver Level and set you up for a Life Time of Dancing Fun. £30/£50 couple. Book your place now. Silvia & Max. Salsa y Sol Dance & Yoga - www.salsaysol.co.uk

Thursday 7

Talk in aid of 6th Winchester Scout Group's headquarters project

Present a Baroque Celebration on Saturday 2nd February at 7.30pm in Chandlers Ford Methodist Church SO53 2GL. Conducted

by Graham Kidd, the choir and professional soloists will play Handel O Praise the Lord , Bach Lobet den Herrn and Italian Baroque music by Carissimi, Leonarda, Monteverdi & Scarlatti. The tickets, priced at £14 (£7 under 18s & students),include a complimentary programme and are available : on-line at www. wcfchoir.org; from choir members; or at the door (cash only). Details on wcfchoir.org.

From 7pm bestselling author, explorer and natural navigator, Tristan Gooley (aka The Natural Navigator), has kindly agreed to give a talk in aid of 6th Winchester Scout Group's headquarters project. Tristan is an engaging and experienced speaker and his talk starts with solo crossings of the Atlantic in a light aircraft and then a small yacht before plunging into the very rare art of natural navigation.

Tristan will describe how he learnt to find his way using the sun, moon, stars, weather, plants, animals and buildings. How he has used the ancient techniques of natural navigation in the desert, on ice, in the jungle, up mountains, in cities, on oceans and in the English countryside. Tickets (which include a drink) are priced £10 for adults and £5 for under 16s and are available from Winchester Discovery Centre www.hants.gov.uk/shop/ product.php?productid=52158&cat=&page=1

Saturday 2

Saturday 9

FEBRUARY Saturday 2

Winchester City Festival Choir and instrumental ensemble

General Auction - Badger Farm Community Centre

Auction : 2pm. Drop off lots to sell 9-9.30am Viewing from 12.30pm. To include China, Coins, Ephemera, Collectables, Old Toys, Jewellery, small items of Furniture, NOT Household goods, Car Boot Items or modern Electricals. Sellers booking recommended Please call Claire 01962 734941 or Bob 01962 733475 for bookings or further information www.auctionsinaday.co.uk

Monday 4

4 week Salsa Beginners Course

From 7.30pm at Winchester Discovery Centre, SO23 8SB. Learn to dance authentic Cuban Salsa! After 4 weeks you are ready to join our Improver Level and enjoy a life time of Dancing Fun with Salsa! £40. Book your place now. Silvia & Max. Salsa y Sol Dance & Yoga www.salsaysol.co.uk

Thursday 7

4 week West Coast Swing Beginners Course

Ffrom 8.00pm at River Park LC, Winchester SO23 7DD. Learn to dance this smooth dance that can be danced to almost any kind of music! - The Dance of 2019. After 4 weeks you are ready to join our Improver Level and enjoy a life time of Dancing Fun with West Coast Swing! £40 - Book your place now!

Silvia & Max, Salsa y Sol Dance & Yoga www.salsaysol.co.uk

St Nicholas Bloodwise Concerts

Choir concert at St Nicholas Church, Church Lane, Bishop’s Sutton. From 6 - 7pm. This is the fifth concert in the series supporting the blood cancer charity Bloodwise and will feature The Thomas Weelkes Singers. The members of the choir are drawn by invitation from across Hampshire and further afield.

They meet occasionally to rehearse intensively and their concerts are usually given in aid of local charities. The conductor is Christopher Tolley, formerly Director of Chapel Music at Winchester College and conductor of the Exon Singers. Doors open at 5.30pm and parking is available at the village hall. The ticket price of £10.00 includes a welcoming drink and tickets can be purchased on the door or reserved via stnbconcerts@gmail.com.

More information about the musicians in the forthcoming concerts and their programmes is available on stnicholasbloodwiseconcerts.com

Saturday 16

Alresford Antiques Fair

The Fair is held in Alresford Town Hall in the centre of the town. We offer a wide range of Decorative, interesting and unusual items including good quality Furniture, Silver, Jewellery, Militaria and Books. We will also buy. Free Admission. Limited Free Parking nearby & large car park at the Station.

Open: 9.30am - 5.00pm. Contacts: Carol - 01264 335769 / 07870 432805 Steve - 01722 712267 / 07915 663251 Lakewood Smith - 07970 797306

Thursday 21 to Saturday 23

The Wizard of Oz - RSC version performed by Alresford Community Theatre Society at Perins School.

Thursday 21st to Saturday 23rd February at 7.30pm plus a matinee on Saturday 23rd at 2.00pm. Tickets Adults £12 / age 16 and under £8 available from ticketsource.co.uk/ event/290121 or Six West, Alresford

Monday 25

Ropley Horticultural Society – Illustrated talk

“The Cape Floral Kingdom” with Vince Gradwell. 7.45 pm start at the Sports Pavilion, Vicarage Lane, Ropley SO24 0DJ Parking free. Non-members £5 on the door includes refreshments, all welcome Enquiries : Jill 01962 772425

Tuesday 26

Alresford Art Society

A demonstration by Oliver Pyle: 'Understanding atmosphere in watercolour'.

From 2.30pm in the Alresford Recreation Centre. Non-members welcome (admission £3). For more information please contact 01962 732043 or email RichardCox105@ msn.com or visit www.artsociety.alresford.org

MARCH Friday 1 Mar to Monday 30 Sept

Open Garden at The Deane House, Sparsholt

£10.00 Children Free. By Arrangement Only.

Group Size 10 +: Flowering cherry trees, statuesque copper beech and tulip trees grace the sweeping lawns at The Deane House (not open), leading the eye to the landscape beyond. This spacious garden entices you to meander from one level to another. The walled garden is best in June when the heady perfume of roses fills the air. Stained glass and modern water features abound. https://www. ngs.org.uk/find-a-garden/garden/9783

Friday 15

Probably Mid Hampshire’s Quiz of the Year

Returns to Itchen Abbas Village Hall at 7.15 p.m. £12 per person to include hot supper – tables of 6. Licensed Bar. An Alresford Rotary event. Book early – last year we sold out weeks in advance. Book early to avoid disappointment! Contact James Pinniger by email (wjrp@hotmail.co.uk) or phone 01962 738788 (evenings/weekends).

Friday 15

Annual Quiz Night

From 7.00pm for 7.15pm at Twyford Village Hall, Hazeley Road, Twyford, SO21 1NH Supper & Cash Bar. Tickets £16 p.p., table of 8 for £128. Tickets available through local contact or Ros Francis on: 01962 711220, 07868132250. ros.francis@hotmail.co.uk (price includes a £8 donation for the charity)

% 30 ON OFF TAKEN

ERS ORD URING Y D R RUA FEB

Before Makeover

After Makeover

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Happy Kitchens completely renovated our kitchen, transformed two wardrobes and built us a lovely cupboard in our storage room. Ben was really enthusiastic during our initial consultations and extremely helpful with assisting us with our choices. He was also very accommodating when we changed our minds on a couple of elements during the process.

Dan, our main fitter, could not have been more professional, flexible or helpful when we had a couple of small niggles, all of which were resolved with a smile – an absolute star! The other fitters who worked with Dan were all very courteous and hard-working. The key thing we recognised is their desire to make the customer happy – Job well done!

Thank you Ben, Dan and James.

Mr Wyatt, Winchester

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

2017 2018

At All Home in Alresford Hampshire about

Sales | Property Management | Lettings

Sales, Lettings and Property Management | Call 01962 736333 for a free market appraisal

ALRESFORD Guide Price: £197,500 | EPC Rating: D

ALRESFORD Guide Price: £345,000 | EPC Rating: D

ALRESFORD Guide Price: £365,000 | EPC Rating: B

Why use a Propertymark Protected Estate and Letting Agent?

Everyone wants the peace of mind to know that their property is in safe hands.

We are pleased to say that Hellards are now members of Propertymark, which is the UK’s foremostALRESFORD body for estate and letting agents.WEST Propertymark registered agents areMARTYR experienced STRATTON WORTHY Guide Price: £470,000 | EPC Rating: D Guide Price: £645,000 | EPC Rating: F Guide Price: £1,400,000 and trained professionals, who operate to a consistently high standard and abide by| EPC a Rating: TBA nationally recognised Code of Practice.

If you are planning to sell or let out your property this year and want honest, independent advice, call Hellards on 01962 736333.

We look forward to hearing from you!

ALRESFORD Guide Price: £1,250,000 | EPC Rating: C

PRESTON CANDOVER Guide Price: £399,950 | EPC Rating: D

ALRESFORD Guide Price: £675,000 | EPC Rating: D

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

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

ALRESFORD For Sale: £600,000 | EPC Rating: C

ALRESFORD For Sale: £585,000 | EPC Rating: D

PRESTON CANDOVER To Let: £1,250pcm | EPC Rating: E

ALRESFORD For Sale: £399,950 | EPC Rating: C

ALRESFORD To Let: £1,950pcm | EPC Rating: E

ROPLEY For Sale: £650,000 | EPC Rating: TBC

ALRESFORD For Sale: £375,000 | EPC Rating: TBC

ALRESFORD For Sale: £1,750,000 | EPC Rating: TBC

ITCHEN ABBAS To Let: £2,750pcm | EPC Rating: E

An exciting New Development for the over 70s Conveniently located on The Dean, Alresford, a stunning brand new retirement development featuring a mix of one and two bedroom apartments. Call us now to register your interest and to be among the first to know about this exciting opportunity - Tel: 01962 736333

6 8

PROPERTY CHURCH SERVICES

New Alresford

St. John the Baptist Sunday 3 08.00 Holy Communion 09.30 Parish Communion 15.00 Deanery Lango Service Sunday 10 08.00 Holy Communion 09.30 Second Sunday 18.00 Choral Evensong Sunday 17 08.30 Holy Communion 09.30 Parish Communion 18.00 Sundays @ six Saturday 24 08.00 Holy Communion 09.30 Informal

Communion with

Children's Group 18.00 Sung Compline Every Wednesday 09.00 Morning Prayer in

Celtic Tradition Every Friday 10.00 Holy Communion

or devotional service Parish Office: 01962 733545 stjohnsalresford.org.uk

Old Alresford

St.Mary the Virgin Sunday 3 11.00 Village Family Service Sunday 10 09.30 Parish Commuion Sunday 17 11.00 Morning Praise Sunday 24 09.30 Holy Communion Every Thursday 09.00 Holy Communion

Old Alresford Place Parish Office: 01962 733545 stjohnsalresford.org.uk

Ovington St.Peter's

Sunday 3 11.00 Cafe Church Sunday 10 10.00 No Service Sunday 17 10.00 Morning Prayer

Sunday 24 10.00 Mattins Parish Office: 01962 733545 stjohnsalresford.org.uk

New Alresford Methodist Church

Sunday Worship 1st Sunday 10.30 Morning Worship.

Holy Communion monthly Midweek Activities Tuesdays 10.00 Come in for coffee

- at Tiffins Thursdays 14.30 1st and 3rd Thursdays

Womens Fellowhip 19.30 1st Thursday- Lydia

Group for ladies Saturdays 09.30 1st Saturday

Bacon Butties Contact: Revd Ruth Fry Tel: 01962 882828

New Alresford New Farm Chapel

Sunday Services 10.30 Morning Worship,

with creche and

KOSMIC for children 16.30 Will vary between

talk or discussion

with praise and prayer Midweek Activities Mondays 16.30 Kidz Club Tuesdays 10.15 Toddlers Group Wednesdays 19.30 Alternate Bible

Study / Prayer Thursdays 10.00 Home Prayer Group 1st Saturday in the month 10.00 Prayer Time www.newfarmchapel.org.uk

Bighton All Saints

Sunday 3 11.00 Family Service Sunday 10 11.00 Morning Prayer Sunday 17 11.00 Parish Communion Sunday 24 11.00 Morning Prayer Parish Office: 01962 733545 stjohnsalresford.org.uk

Upper Itchen Benefice Sunday 3 10.15 Cheriton All Age Holy

Communion Service Sunday 10 09.00 Cheriton Matins 09.30 Bramdean

Holy Communion 11.00 Kilmeston

Family Worship 11.00 Tichborne All Age Worship Sunday 17 08.30 Beauworth

Holy Communion 09.30 Cheriton

Holy Communion 11.00 Hinton Ampner

Prayer & Praise Sunday 24 09.30 Cheriton

Holy Communion

11.00 Kilmeston

Holy Communion 11.00 Bramdean

Morning Worship 18.00 Tichborne Evensong Thursdays 09.00 Cheriton

Morning Prayer

New Alresford

Catholic Church of St. Gregory the Great Every Sunday 11.00 Mass All other enquiries: 01962 852 804

Itchen Valley Benefice Sunday 3 08.00 Martyr Worthy

Holy Communion 10.00 Easton

All Age Service Sunday 10 10.00 Itchen Abbas

Parish Communion 18.00 Martyr Worthy Evensong Sunday 17 08.00 Itchen Abbas

Holy Communion 10.00 Easton

Valley Worship Sunday 24 10.00 Martyr Worthy

Parish Communion 18.00 Avington Evensong

I have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes in Me will not remain in darkness.

John 12:46 (NASB) Sunday services 10.30am and 4.30pm - All Welcome Further details on website, or Telephone: 01962 851299 www.newfarmchapel.org.uk

PROPERTY

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PROPERTY CONSULTANTS CENTRAL ALRESFORD Rare Opportunity to purchase a Garage and Private Parking Spaces

Lock Up Garage located near Broad Street GUIDE PRICE £49,500

Adjacent to Broad Street, private parking GUIDE PRICE £45,000

Call Trevor on 07860 560868 info@hampshirehedges.co.uk www.hampshirehedges.co.uk

Lock Up Garage located in the Dean TO LET £325 per quarter

Tel: 01420 561507

email: gakwilliamson@aol.com

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10

GARDEN

Garden

LAWN CARE - MOSS AND SCARIFICATION

A

ccording to Don McLean’s 70’s classic, American Pie, ‘moss grows fat on a rolling stone’. According to my experience, moss grows fat on a winter lawn. Many suffer moss growth in their lawns. It’s easy to spot, lush and green amongst the grass. Thriving as it smothers its less vigorous winter bed partner. The good news is it responds well to treatment and can be brought under control with specialist lawn-care. The bad news is, left untreated it will thrive and it encourages infestation from chafer grubs which can cause a huge amount of lawn damage.

From a distance moss gives the impression of a green, lush lawn. The grass it is smothering struggles to survive, the percentage of moss in the lawn increases and the grass gradually dies away.

Why is this a problem? Wait until the drier summer months and you’ll soon see. Moss thrives in wet conditions, but unlike healthy, well maintained grass, which is far hardier, moss dries out and dies in dry, warm summer weather. At the height of summer, when you want to be enjoying your garden at its best, you are left with brown, scorched areas of lawn and areas of dead moss. Most unsightly and far too late in the season to treat. Spring is the ideal time for dealing with moss issues. Mowing too short, too infrequently or not following the correct mowing height for the time of year can be a big contributor to moss growth. As can incorrect nutrition, not dealing with thatch or compaction and not removing leaves from the lawn regularly. Bare areas should also be dealt with promptly so as not to leave space for moss spores to germinate. A healthy dense grass sward leaves little room for moss or weeds to take up residence.

Killing and removing moss If you already have moss in your lawn this can be treated. Some people try this themselves with lawn-sand but the results can be hit and miss with the grass often being killed at the same time as the moss. Our approach is a liquid treatment combined with a wetting agent that helps penetrate deep into the thick matting of moss. Ensure your lawn has the correct nutritional plan in place, so it’s receiving the right nutrients at the right time of year. Healthy grass, like healthy people, is in a better position to fight off invaders.

Once the moss has been killed it’s time to remove it. This can be hard work over a large area where a petrol-driven scarifier is essential equipment for the job. It’s time consuming and pretty hard work but it’s important to get the dead moss out and will reduce thatch at the same time. Scarification vigorously rakes the surface of the lawn with spinning blades. These blades rip out moss and thatch and open up the surface of the lawn.

Top-dressing It’s often beneficial to top-dress your lawn after scarification. This addition of a organic matter helps to level uneven hollows in the lawn surface, improves soil structure, drainage and helps the general health of the lawn.

Over-seeding to infill The final process is over-seeding - introducing new, healthy grass plants to in-fill the gaps left by the moss that’s been removed, creating a stronger, healthier lawn that’s more capable of dealing with the challenges nature throws at it.

Scarification creates ideal surface conditions for over-seeding. Unlike re-seeding, where the existing vegetation is removed completely and a new seed-bed created for the sowing of a new lawn, over-seeding works with what you already have by adding new grass seeds to your existing lawn and helping to blend areas of weak growth into other areas of your lawn more naturally. It’s also far less labour intensive, uses fewer lawn seeds and is much more economical. It is however really important to deal with any weeds before seeding begins. New grass plants are susceptible to the treatments used to kill lawn weeds. Older, existing lawn grasses are robust enough to withstand these treatments.

Therefore manage the weed issue first and then get new grass plants growing. Remember that once germination begins your new grass seeds need moisture to survive. They won’t be able to manage times without water until they have established roots. If it doesn’t rain then you need to remember to keep them watered for the first few weeks but regular rain is almost guaranteed at this time of year.

Planning ahead is the way to create superb outdoor spaces you can enjoy all year. Now is the time to treat lawn moss problems, if you don’t want to do this yourself call in the professionals and get on top of that moss problem before it’s too late.

Ian Kenyon runs Shrekfeet Lawn and Garden Services. He is always happy to offer friendly, professional advice and help 01962 460146, 07739 789483 www.shrekfeet.com

GARDEN

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

Tel: 01962 732498 Mob: 07879 448141

ROPLEY TREES PROFESSIONAL TREE CARE Family owned and run since 1973, built on great service and value for money Please visit our website for all the latest news, information, second-hand machines for sale; and special offers in the showroom.

Laceys Farm, Bramdean Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0JT

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

SINCE 1987, SPARSHOLT TRAINED FULLY QUALIFIED AND INSURED CALL LYNDN GAUNTLETT:

TEL 01962 791180

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WHEELIE BIN CLEANING Wheelie bins are a known harbourage for a variety of pest species, from flies and maggots, to wasps and rats!

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Contact us today for a competitive quote

T: 07778 141505

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

11

12

COMMUNITY

OPENING OF NEWLY REFURBISHED PLAY AREA IN CHERITON

Photo courtesy of Leela Bennett Photography

On Saturday 8th December a group of excited children and their families gathered at the play area in Cheriton to celebrate its reopening after a complete refurbishment.

WINCHESTER CITY COUNCILLOR MONTHLY REPORT - COUNCILLOR GRIFFITHS If you have any comments or questions on the content of this report, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

And of course, on any matter relating to WCC responsibilities where I will help.

The year started with me downloading the NHS’ ‘Couch to 5k’ App and I am actually surprised how easy it is to start to run – wish me luck in getting to a 5k run by week 9!

There isan ‘Active 10’ App (no lycra required!) which is about brisk walking every day – everyone’s brisk walk is different, you are only challenging yourself, so give something a go which gets your heart going a little faster. If you’d like to walk with a regular group, there are Health Walks starting in Alresford, Kings Worthy and Winchester – info can be found on WCC website, or call me and I’ll let you know.

THE FACTS ABOUT WCC FINANCES WCC have council borrowing of £224m to assets of £606m, which gives us a net position of £382m. Assets purchased are strategic within the Winchester District and are tested to meet return on investment criteria – for example The Dean car park, new business

Ned Balme and Pat Culpin represented the various generations of play area users as they cut the ribbon and declared the play area open.

The play area is provided by Cheriton Parish Council with support from the parishes of Kilmeston and Tichborne. The project has been generously supported by Alresford PIGS, Alresford Rotary, Boomtown, Hellards estate agency, Hampshire Playing Fields Association, Hampshire County Councillor Discretionary grants and the Waitrose Community Matters Scheme. Members of the community contributed to a Just Giving Appeal to replace the swings.

Cllr Sue Herdman, chair of the play area working party, thanked the members of the group: Rebecca Scallan, Jo Downie, Jan Crowhurst, Pat Culpin, Ginnie Murfitt, Liz Brett, Cllrs Nicholas Scallan and Lorraine Line and Vitaplay who designed and installed the new playground.

units in Bishops Waltham, the bus station in Winchester – all serving a defined need within the community and strategically important for residents. By comparison, Eastleigh Borough have £437m of borrowing (£200m extra in 2018/19 and a lot of it short term borrowing) to £463m of assets (some outside their own Borough), therefore net assets of £26m. It is not difficult to imagine the effect of an interest rate rise on their short term borrowing to work out that this Local Authority could be heading for disaster.

For our residents therefore, the Conservative Administration have a strong base from which to serve the community which is why we are able to freeze council tax this year but add the further service of doorstep glass collection from October 2019, without asking you to pay for it. East Hants residents pay for their garden waste collection, you don’t. The new Sport & Leisure Centre in Winchester is set to ensure that build/borrow costs are financed by income from the Operator running the centre, and is not a cost to residents.

WASTE COLLECTION FROM 2020 In February this year, WCC will begin to review the waste and recycling contract which will be placed for 8 years from October 2020. New Government initiatives require Councils to look at a wider range of materials, but that will need to be balanced by the processing plant available, as well as the cost to the Council and resident views. There is little gain in our emissions commitment if we have to transport waste a long way from the district.

Sometimes it is a matter of the right timing to introduce types of waste collection, and the price for glass recycling is much more

HELPING THE POLICE TO HELP US We live in a low crime area, but those crimes that do occur each cause the same level of personal and financial distress as in a high crime area. The information we provide goes towards the information that can result in conviction, and after we have taken our own precautions to prevent crime, we need to support detection and where possible prosecution.

As always, crime in progress, or personal safety at risk dial 999. But all crimes, from ASB upwards need to be reported, on 101 or online at https://www.hampshire.police.uk/ro/ report/ocr/how-to-report-a-crime/ It is the crimes reported that support local resources, and any other measures such as the need for CCTV. So please make the effort to report all crimes, it’s all part of the jigsaw.

But it is also suspicious events and for us, suspicious vehicles, that need to be reported, and that is more difficult given the delay on 101. Police Sgt Wood has advised that we should use the link above, and follow the dialogue that takes us to ‘report something else’. Facebook does not report a suspicious vehicle.

This is particularly important in Alresford itself. Most residents have been aware that the installation of CCTV has been discussed for some years. The cost is significant and at present the crime statistics to not justify the expenditure. But I hear on facebook, and by rumour, that some are not reported. Facebook is not a crime report. Low level crime is part of a pattern, and knowledge of that pattern can result in prosecution; events can be associated and lead to better detection.

favourable than at the start of the contract, and so we will very carefully consider options.

PROMOTING ALRESFORD & ITCHEN VALLEY – TOURIST FACTS NEEDED WCC Tourism Team are starting a Fact Friday and Monday Teasers social media drive. They are looking for interesting facts to use as part of Facebook ‘Fact Fridays’ or ‘brain teasers’ on Mondays. If you have an image or image suggestion to accompany the piece, please email jcampbell@winchester.gov.uk and let’s get us noticed!

Ward Member for Alresford & Itchen Valley Portfolio Holder for Health & Wellbeing Winchester City Council Email : lgriffiths@winchester.gov.uk Telephone : 01962 469854 or 07545 375632

14

FEATURE

HAMPSHIRE MUM:

DOGGY PADDLE

BY SANDRA PAGAN

I

t is the time of year for long country walks with family and

BY SANDRA PAGAN

friends. Lots of chatter en route to chilling in a country pub, a chance to catch up and share memories, or in our case make some new ones…

Despite a rocky start, our friend’s elegant Vizsla hound now happily ignores the Pagan Pup and maturely concentrates on fetching his ball from wherever it falls.The Pagan Pup on the other hand, shows no signs of growing up much like the other males in the Pagan household, - spending his time engaged in happy disorder and rebellion; well he is a Spaniel after all.

As our respective families grow older, things obviously change with girlfriends and boyfriends now accompanying our offspring.

It's wonderful to see young people flying various nests and living their own lives and for us to be a part of it, in some small way.

On this peaceful day, we ambled down the lane and out into the beauty that surrounds our Market Town. All was tranquil at first, but then things turn for the worse.The Vizsla was, as always, dutifully retrieving, but the Pagan pup was having none of this.

Having been so well behaved he could bare it no longer and decided that a swim was required. At the first sign of H2O he was in! An elegant plunge and a couple of lengths of the muddy stream seemed to suffice and then… there he was, stuck.

As the elegant and pristine Vizsla looked disapprovingly down, the Pagan Pup could only manage to haul half his body (aided by spread-eagled front legs) onto the steep bank. I was suddenly aware that we were all just staring down at the Pagan Pup and no one, (it should have been me I know), aided his exit. So started the embarrassed calling ritual, “Come on you can do it good boy”.

Fortunately, an able ex-forces member of our party - straddled the slippery bank and hauled the self-conscious Pagan Pup unceremoniously from the river by the scruff of his neck.

Job done.

Now, you would think that would have been sufficiently embarrassing for a gun dog but no, as the river widened so did his desire for adventure.While his canine companion was on ‘fetch’ number 230 the Pagan Pup had spied ducks on the opposite bank.

With an elegant dive, he was in and set off across the flowing river like an Olympian. A single bound found him out of the river and in to the small adjacent pond.The ducks had him sussed and took flight immediately, so the Pagan Pup did a couple of laps so as not to loose face and tried to climb out… and yet again, stuck.

The ex-forces friends temper was now somewhat frayed, “Come on get out of there!”

We all gathered on the waters edge to offer calls of encouragement, but then Pagan pup started yelping. Something was clearly not right. I gazed hopefully in the direction of the husband but couldn’t catch his eye, he’d clearly done enough dog rescuing for one day.

We continued to call encouragingly but to no avail, the yelping got worse. Clearly there was nothing for it I took off my coat rolled my sleeves up – for some reason - and debated whether the well-known outdoor clothing brand I was wearing would be really up to the task. I was just about to set off across the river when, “Mum no. Don’t be daft you’re too old, I’ll go” Despite my strong urge to prove him wrong all I could was watch as Star I disappeared back along the path reappearing on the far bank.The Pagan Pup had got a hind leg caught somehow, so Star I took the plunge and set him free. As he staggered free of the muddy pond, the Pagan Pup swam heroically back across the river to face our ex-forces friends wrath.

With a gaggle of Sunday tourists approaching, our party moved off as if nothing had happened.This left me with a bedraggled and suddenly shivery Pagan Pup and Star I, who was now squelching toward me wet from the knee down. I assured him I was confident that Timberland boots were designed for such eventualities and would be fine after a night on the radiator.

A kind friend gave us a lift home and after a quick blow dry the Pagan Pup appeared suitably coiffured and curled up on the sofa.

Star I’s boots dripped and steamed on the radiator as we retired to the pub.

Perfect!

GARDEN

15

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

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PROFESSIONAL COMMUNITY

CELEBRATE 20 YEARS OF HAMPSHIRE FARMERS’ MARKETS & SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL PRODUCERS

to announce we will be hosting a special event at Leckford Farm Shop and nursery near Stockbridge in June. All I can say is keep a close watch on all our social media channels to see what festivities we have in store to celebrate 20 years at all of our market locations.”

Hampshire Farmers’ Markets have released the all-important market dates for 2019. Fill in your diaries and calendars with the closest one to you. Or, if you’ve never visited before, perhaps your New Year’s resolution could be to go along and try some of the delicious items made by some of our best Hampshire producers.

This year marks a very special anniversary for Hampshire Farmers’ Markets – 20 years of bringing the best of the county’s produce to the High Street. Since the first market in Winchester, Hampshire Farmers’ Markets have gone from strength-to-strength and now hold nine markets in towns and cities across Hampshire each month.

Every weekend of the year visitors can discover the delights of wonderful food and drink, as well as gifts, crafts and plants for the garden.

All members must source at least 20 per cent of their ingredients from Hampshire or within a 20-mile radius. Plus any produce grown, reared or raised must spend at least 50 per cent of its time with the producer. Traceability is important to all of us and visitors to markets can be assured everything is fully traceable.

“2019 is shaping up to be a good year already,” points out David Woodroofe, chairman at Hampshire Farmers’ Markets. “Winchester was where we held our very first market back in 1999 and it is here where our celebrations will kick-off in May. We’re also very excited

There’s always something to sample at market too, it could be the award-winning charcuterie

by Ambrose Sausages or something to warm you up from Newhouse Venison and Game or delicious rustic street food from Hampshire Table. Plus there’s always tea and coffee to

A LETTER TO THE EDITOR

a huge fish pond and not only provided the Bishop with fish for his palaces one of which was at Bishops Sutton but was doubtless a commercial venture providing a good income not only from fish and eels but wild fowl as well. The weir also connected the New Market (New Alresford) with the Winchester to London road which then ran Via Abbotestone ,(Old) Alresford, Bighton, Medstead to Alton.

Its also possible that the dam would also have some what dried up the marshy land around the Ladycroft area at Sewers Bridge making a more direct route to Winchester and Southampton along the current A31. The pond would also enabled a certain amount of control of the water that supplied the mills that straddle the river on down stream.

Dear Editor.

It was with interest I read the Article regarding the Bridge at the Soke. I have to say that to my knowledge there never was a navigation from Winchester up to Alresford and I have found no evidence to support the claim. The construction of the Great Weir in the late 12th early 13 century which damned the streams flowing from Bishops Sutton and Bighton formed Alresford Pond which was used as

quench your thirst after a busy morning’s shopping.

The markets aren’t the only place you can find delicious produce to buy this year.You will be able to say hello and pick up your favourite ingredients at the Alresford Watercress Festival and Hamble Festival in May as well as Open Farm Sunday at Broughton Buffalo on 9th June.

David continues: “2018 was a great year for new markets and new members joining Hampshire Farmers’ Markets and we’re hoping 2019 will be even better. There are even more brilliant producers to meet at your local market.You can buy everything from chocolate to cheese and salad to strawberries – there’s no reason not to eat seasonal and local. Plus supporting your local producers means you’re also supporting your High Street – something that’s becoming crucially important for the businesses in all our towns and cities.”

Here’s a full list of February market dates: Sunday 3rd Saturday 9th Sunday 10th Saturday 16th Sunday 17th Saturday 23rd Sunday 24th

Petersfield/Romsey Alton Winchester Emsworth Southsea Ringwood Winchester

AVINGTON HISTORY REWRITTEN

Indecently the Mills would have made the river impassable for any form of barge. It should also be remembered that the River at Alresford was then known as the Itchen and not the Alre.and what is to day known as the source of the Itchen in Kilmeston parish near Hinton Marsh (New Cheriton) was the source of the Ticceburna stream a tributary of he Itchen.

Well, slightly revised and updated at least.

This popular and informative book by Gill Graham Maw is now into its third edition, featuring a walk-round guide to the village with short histories of each of the older properties. Its 40 pages are packed with village photographs, some with ‘then and now’ comparisons, background information on our own historic Avington Park and plenty of firsthand accounts of ordinary village life as it once was. The book is available in St Mary’s Church, Avington (pay into the hole in the wall) or from Penny Russell on 01962 779303.

All proceeds from the sale of the book (a modest £5) will benefit Itchen Valley Parish Churches.

GarryAllam

Penny Russell

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PROFESSIONAL

N FINE ART AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS

FINE ART, ANTIQUES, INTERIORS & COLLECTABLES Tuesday 5th February

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Our Family Law Department can help you with: Divorce, Separation, Pre-Nups and Post-Nups, Cohabitation Agreements and Child Contact

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WELLBEING FEATURE

COUNTRY MOUSE, TOWN MOUSE

BY CLAIRE THURLOW

I

t’s four o’clock on a drizzly January afternoon and the tawny owls are already on the hunt.The sun is setting as I walk back towards home, and that familiar ‘keewick’ call is answered by ‘hoo-hoo’ from the other side of the lane. I will miss the owls, and have found their regular presence to be companionable rather than eerie.They have watched us from the beech tree and the garage roof, and swooped low at dusk over the rough grass in the meadow in search of prey.

But tomorrow we leave the owls, and the village, and become ‘townies’ again. Although there will be woodland walks on our doorstep, I doubt I will have the same opportunities for seeing wildlife as I’ve had here.

It’s not just luck that has allowed us to witness the owls close up, they are drawn by the presence of tiny rodents, and wood mice in particular. Although mainly nocturnal, I have seen wood mice in daylight, darting from behind the log wall and into a narrow patch of woodland.This corner has been left largely untouched, (nobody would call me a tidy gardener!) with a tangle of brambles, nettles and ivy which shelters small mammals and birds from predators and the worst of the winter weather.The canopy of trees offers beech nuts and sycamore seeds, while the undergrowth provides centipedes, worms and insects.

In the autumn I spotted a wood mouse scrambling among the shrubs to reach a clutch of berries. It’s hard to dislike this appealing little creature, with its big black eyes and over-sized ears. No doubt the long, twitching whiskers and mobile nose alerted the mouse to my presence, but it

appeared unconcerned. Perhaps it felt safer in daylight, while the nocturnal hunters - foxes and cats, as well as owls, were sleeping.

Unlike the drab, grey-brown house mouse, the wood mouse, also known as the long-tailed field mouse, has a soft, sandycoloured coat and white belly. Agile and tenacious, it gathers a stock of food to sustain it through the winter - acorns are a particular favourite. If it raids the berry bushes, the wood mouse leaves the fruit behind, preferring the pips.Should you find a neat, circular hole nibbled in a hazel shell, then the wood mouse has probably been at work. Unlike the gnawing of a squirrel, all the teeth marks point downwards. Once found, the food is stored in caches, perhaps in an old birds’ nest or in a hollow tree.

Last winter, with a coating of snow on the ground, tiny tracks along its regular route suggested the wood mouse had been out and about despite the cold.They don’t hibernate, although, like many of us, may become sluggish in a harsh winter, preferring the comfort of a network of burrows beneath the tree roots. But if stores are low, they will venture out to forage, especially if there are young to feed. A prolific breeder, producing up to six litters a year, the wood mouse may even give birth in winter if food supplies are adequate.

I hope the wood mice make it through the winter. Not just because their presence ensures a valuable food source for the owls, but because they are fascinating in their own right.Who knew that they ‘way-mark’ their territories with strategically placed leaves and twigs? Or that they’ll settle in a nest box if it’s low down on a tree trunk? They may be small, but are certainly characterful!

WELLB EING

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WELLBEING

ADVICE COLUMN FROM CITIZENS ADVICE WINCHESTER DISTRICT

away from your income. Any money you have spare can be put towards your debts. Citizens Advice’s budgeting tool, found on its website, can help.

I’ve got three kids, and my finances are not in good shape post Christmas. I’m on a low income so had to put some purchases on a credit card. I have been trying to pay it off but I’m already behind on other bills.

I haven’t been able to pay my council tax in three months and received payment reminders from my energy provider. What should I do?

Your council tax, rent or mortgage, and energy are priority debts as there can be serious consequences if you don’t pay them. These must be paid first. Separate these and work out how much you owe. As you’re already in arrears with your council tax, you must act quickly and contact your council to arrange an affordable payment plan.You can also contact your energy supplier to help you sort out a payment plan that works for you. They must help you do this and you can get help from your local Citizens Advice if they don't. To cut your future bills you should make sure you're on the best deal you can get. Use a price comparison tool to check.

Q

A

First things first, work out how much you owe - make a list of who you need to pay each month and how much. If you don’t have your most recent statements, you can contact your creditors to find out.

Make sure you are getting all the income that you are entitled to. For example, you may be entitled to tax credits to top up your income or help with child care, housing costs or school meals.

Create a budget by adding up essential living costs, such as food and housing, and take these

For further help working out your budget, negotiating with creditors or checking which benefits you’re entitled to, contact your nearest Citizens Advice by phone, online or face-toface.

If you need advice, Citizens Advice Winchester District offers a drop-in service in Winchester and Bishops Waltham, and also runs a weekly outreach in Denmead, Wickham and Alresford.

Alternatively, call Adviceline on 03444 111306 or visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk -

VILLAGE AGENT - DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO NEEDS A HOME FIRE SAFETY CHECK? Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service can provide a free Safe & Well visit to the most vulnerable people in the community who may be at more risk of harm from fire.

A person may be eligible for this if one or more of the following is true: • • • •

Over 65 Lives alone Has a physical or learning disability Has difficulties with vision or hearing

Find out more at the Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service website www.hantsfire.gov. uk or call the community safety team on 023 8062 6751.

Alternatively, contact your local Village Agent, Denise on 07969 376023.

Village Agents are volunteers who can help you find information and local services that will enable you to stay living safely and independently.

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WELLB EING

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26 West Street, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9AT Tel: 01962 733269 email:alresford@rawlingsopticians.co.uk

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For more details contact Winchester Lifeline  01962 855335  Lifeline@winchester.gov.uk

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MOTORING WELLBEING

MOTORING

ALRESFORD SURGERY NEWS ADMIN EMAIL ADDRESS Please can we remind patients not to use the admin email address for non-urgent, medical matters. We’ve had a few emails asking if patients can have urgent appointments or prescriptions for things via this means, which is obviously not the correct way to use it – and could lead to things being missed/not being dealt with in a timely fashion.

TRAVEL ABROAD If you are travelling abroad and think you may need advice and vaccinations from us you must complete a questionnaire (available from reception or from our website) and make an appointment with a nurse.

Please be aware that if you provide us with less than 6 weeks’ notice before travelling we have to refer you on to the Winchester Travel Clinic as our Nurses may not be able to accommodate your requirements.

CARER SUPPORT CLINICS - ARE YOU A CARER? A carer is someone of any age who provides unpaid support to family or friends who could not manage without this help. This could be caring for a relative, partner or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or substance misuse problems. If you care for someone then The Princess Royal Trust for Carers can support you in your caring role, with information, advice or just a listening ear. You will also have access to the other services provided by the Trust. Monthly Support Clinics are on offer at our Surgery on the 2nd Wednesday or every month 1-5pm. Appointments are one to one basis for up to 50 minutes these are bookable appointments and can be booked through the reception at our GP surgery.

For more information about The Princess Royal Trust for Carers contact them on 01264 835246 or visit https://carers.org/partner/ princess-royal-trust-carers-hampshire

ID VALETING BESPOKE SERVICE ALRESFORD PROFESSIONAL VALETING GET THAT NEW CAR FEELING BY BOOKING A FULL VALET

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OPENING TIMES

Mon - Fri: 7.30am - 5.00pm APPOINTMENTS CAN BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE All weather facility, dry and warm waiting area ID VALETING, UNIT 4, SHELF HOUSE INDUSTRIAL NEW FARM ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9QE TEL: 07967 730584 idt45@btinternet.com

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MOTORING

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The following cars have been carefully selected because of their low mileage, excellent condition and service history.

2017 (66) Renault Captur Dynamique Nav 1.2, 1 owner, Sat nav,

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MOTORING COMMUNITY curriculum and every child is monitored and assessed continuously. Last summer, the school achieved its best set of A Level results with nearly half of all pupils going on to Russell Group universities and more pupils attained the top grades at GCSE. From class representation student council to leading sailing, skiing and golf programmes, pupils become accustomed to responsibility and accountability and go on to achieve outstanding results. Last November, the school came second at the National Schools Indoor Open Ski Racing Championships. On the water, as part of the school’s expanding sailing and powerboat programme, Hampshire Collegiate School pupils were the fastest team of young sailors in the 2018 Round the Island Race.

DEVELOPING COMPETENT, CONFIDENT AND COMPASSIONATE CHILDREN Hampshire Collegiate School, on the outskirts of Romsey, will hold its next open morning on Tuesday 12th March (9.00am-12.00pm).

part in lessons and see the school’s extensive facilities, which are nestled in 130 acres of beautiful wood and parkland at Embley Park.

You will learn more about the school’s core purpose of helping each child to be their best by equipping them with the competence to succeed academically, the confidence to be their own character and instilling in them a compassion for the world.

During the morning, you will be able to chat to children and staff at the Nursery, Prep School, Senior School and Sixth Form, take

Results matter at Hampshire Collegiate School. That is why teaching is exceptional, classes are small, pupils receive a tailored

STEVE BRINE MP

big improvements. Just before Christmas I took a tour of what will soon be an extended emergency department creating space for additional rapid assessment and treatment areas, as well as a new paediatric assessment unit.You may remember, the way the ED treats children was criticised in a recent CQC report.

Every area values its local hospital and that is certainly true in Winchester where the Royal Hampshire County Hospital (one of Florence Nightingale’s own) sits proudly on top of the hill.

Of course, no hospital can stand still and reflect on past glories and I have always worked to ensure it retains safe and sustainable services for the long-term.

The past 12-months has brought welcome news in this regard, during which time the RHCH has received millions of pounds for

The changes will ensure that all patients coming into the emergency departments are cared for in the right environment for them as well as providing a better working environment for staff.

This has been made possible thanks to £4million in capital funding from the Department of Health and it is really excellent to see this work taking shape and the headline figures of record NHS investment we see on the news translated on the ground.

The emergency department in Winchester has needed this for years and I hope this work sends a clear signal to patients, staff and those who may want to come and work here, that this is a hospital with a bright future and services we can rely on. Furthermore, our Trust has been awarded £10.2million of

Many day pupils use the school’s private home-school minibus service which runs across Hampshire and Wiltshire, with routes covering the Andover villages.Yet the vibrant and friendly boarding house provides an opportunity for students to live, learn and work together on a full time, weekly or flexi boarding basis.

For further information, please visit www. hampshirecs.org.uk or follow us on Twitter (@HampshireCS) and Facebook (www. facebook.com/hampshirecs)

additional government funding which will be used to make improvements to the pharmacy and orthopaedic departments; reducing the time we have to wait for operations such as hip replacements in the future and moving the pharmacy at Winchester hospital moved to a new location allowing staff to speed up the process of dispensing medicines to patients.

Hospital pharmacy is often the quiet hero of the acute sector and having very recently visited the current location myself, I know how much this move is needed. Want to attend PMQs this year? I have now opened the ballot for tickets to watch Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday 13th March 2019. See; www.stevebrine.com/ PMQs And finally, you can find more of my work, including my reaction to the latest Brexit developments, via my website at www. stevebrine.com but please ‘like’ my Page at www.fb.com/SteveBrineMP for instant updates.

Steve Brine MP for Winchester, Alresford & Itchen Valley

MOTORING

Mainting old fashioned values Business as unusual!

Winchester Auto Barn

Winchester Auto Barn (formerly Hill Farm Garage) is officially open for business offering all of the well-established specialist services and competitive rates of Hill Farm (with a few extra bells and whistles). However, we also now host events and have grand designs for the future, including traditional showrooms for classic cars and storage for your own pride and joy.

Sutton Scotney Winchester SO21 3NS

-@-

MOT test rates Modern cars: £48.50 Pre 1980 'classic' cars: £28.50 (Tea & cake included)

Services

For all cars old and new, but we specialise in modern Mercedes-Benz

-®- -©- -@MOTs

Competitive rates and fast turn-arounds for all cars

Sales

An eclectic mix of cars with a preference for 60s-80s era

Automobilia

Browse and buy our genuine period pieces

01962 677776 • www.winchesterautobarn.com • Hours: 8:30am - 5:30pm Sat sales by appointment

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

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

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

The government has committed to this fuel difference for the future.

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

Class 7 Vans from 3,000 - 3,500kg Class 4 Cars and Vans up to 3,000kg All makes of cars and vans serviced and repaired All makes of truck and horsebox up to 7500kg maintained and prepared for ministry plating tests

CERTIFICATED ENGINEERS • RECOVERY AVAILABLE •

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RETAIL

MARKET SQUARE

Interior Style

Andrew Smith & Son - Auctioneers

Moda Rosa

Aluminium Dog in Bronze Finish - £26

Fine Art, Antiques, Interiors & Collectables Tues 5th Feb. Monthly General Antiques & Interiors Sale Sat 16th Feb Tel: 01962 735988 | www.andrewsmithandson.com

Paule Ka - New spring collection 2019 35 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 733277 | www.modarosa.co.uk

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

TUE - SAT: 10AM - 4.30PM

Design Realities

D.Barker & Son

House of Gallet

Vintage inspired crystal wine glasses and champagne

Gilded silver heart stud earrings - £24

saucers £72 set of 6 - 36 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732507 | www.design-realities.co.uk

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

We are on the lookout for high end designer wear please call us for details - 19 Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 735362 | www.houseofgallet.co.uk

ADVANCED FACIALS

Non invasive Non invasive alternatives to alternatives to Botox & fillers Botox & fillers with clear results with clear results

Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

AESTHETIC STUDIO ALRESFORD | LONDON AESTHETIC STUDIO ALRESFORD | LONDON www.sallycurson.co.uk

www.sallycurson.co.uk Face Matters

The Alresford Gift Shop

Kiln Dried Hardwood Logs from £150 + VAT and

Aesthetic Studio - Alresford | London

For all your Valentines Gifts and Cards

delivery charge. High Ridge Farm, Shirrell Heath Tel: 01329 835100 | www.equestrianfencing.com

14 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT

10 West Street, Alresford SO24 9AT Tel: 01962 732192 | 10 West Street, Alresford

Tel: 07887 878567 | www.sallycurson.co.uk

RETAIL

Oakleaf Stationery Ltd

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

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

SERVICES WE OFFER...

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

We are also a UPS Access Point Visit us at : 56 West Street, Alresford, Hants SO24 9AU 01962 736116 info@oakleafstationery.co.uk

Sale Now On

New

Gold Opal & Diamond Necklace Just in from one18ct of Antwerp’s oldest family owned manufacturers, Was £1,795 NOW £1,200 A collection of three stone rings with brightly coloured sapphires and 18ct White Gold Moonstone & Diamond Ring rubies and finely cut white diamonds in good quality 18ct gold mounts.

Was £1,895 NOW £1,250

Prices from £845 to £1395

40a West Street, Alresford, Pre-Owned Cluster Ring Hants in 18ct Gold 40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Emerald Cut DiamondTel: Surrounded by Calibre Cut Sapphires Tel:01962 01962732200 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk Centre Diamond 0.75ct www.dbarkerandson.co.uk www.dbarkerandson.co.uk £5,175

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

Delivery Person/People URGENTLY Needed We require a delivery person/people to distribute the Forum door to door throughout Ropley & Ropley Dean, Bighton, Gundleton, Bramdean, Tichborne, Northington.

(Use of your own vehicle preferable)

For more information Email: Editor@forumpublications.co.uk

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ENTERTAINMENT well presented, the layout is a challenging test for both amateurs and professionals, regularly hosting county amateur and PGA competitions. Whether a beginner or regular player, the regular ‘roll ups’ and social occasions will ensure that you make new friends quickly.

Membership enquiries are welcome for all playing categories and abilities, including those new to golf or thinking of joining their first club. Our academy membership is proving very popular and includes a lesson package within the annual fee as well as full access to some of the best practice facilities in the county with a newly extended practice/covered driving range with ball collection, short game and wedge area and 6 hole par 3 course.

ALRESFORD GOLF COURSE - ONE OF THE OLDEST AND PRETTIEST COURSES IN HAMPSHIRE Alresford is one of the oldest and prettiest places to play in Hampshire. An easy walking, chalk downland course which is lush in the summer and enjoys outstanding natural drainage in the winter ensuring that bad weather does not spoil your golf and that you get maximum value for your membership. Always tidy and

ARTISTS BLOSSOM IN SPRING IN THE PICTURESQUE AXARQUIA A talented, local artist teaches an exciting new course in Spain this March. Kate Measham, trained at Winchester School of Art, now inspires others with classes in west Hampshire while selling her beautiful work through the Josie Eastwood Gallery in Longstock.

Membership enquiries are welcome not only from golfers (new and old) but also from those who would like to make use of the dining facilities and various social events. The club offers a range of social events from Sunday lunches to themed dining evenings, Bridge club, live music and quizzes.

Please come along to visit us - we would be delighted to show you around the club and discuss all the options with you.You really will be very welcome.

Tel: 01962 733746 / 01962 733998(Pro-Shop) Email: secretary@alresfordgolf.co.uk www.alresfordgolf.co.uk

SPRING FLOWERS IN THE MOUNTAINS OF AXARQUIA

In October 2018, Kate taught Autumn Light in Andalucia at Casa Rosa near Periana, in the hills between Granada and Malaga. We associate autumn more with mist than brilliance in Britain, but Andalucian light is bright all year round, especially in Autumn and Spring, and stimulating to painters. The views of - and from - the exquisite Casa Rosa were “irresistible stimulation to my students whose work was exciting and whose progress startling” said Kate.

The Spring course of 2019 is titled Andalucia, Spring Flowers and Rural Spain. In this unspoilt area, growing wild and unaided are peonies, orchids, narcissi, iris, anemone, lavender and many more. In Autumn the pomegranate orchards and citrus trees will again excite artists on a painting course and an exciting, new sculpture course.

Casa Rosa is a stunning country mansion, built by an inspiring family of artists, gardeners, collectors and diplomats. Stylish Rosie Tatham, Winchester resident, artist and host for the week, describes how her parents built Casa Rosa to be filled with light and beauty. The house sits in it own orchards and gardens and is provided with comfort, beauty and technology, tennis court and not 1, but 2 pools.

Fabulous cook Jessica Tatham, of Rad.ish food and grand daughter of the creators of Casa Rosa, grew up in Winchester and trained at Ballymaloe in Ireland. Jessica produces astonishingly delicious and beautiful meals, emphasising health and well being.

For more information call: 01980 863155 www.artdrawpaint.com www.rad-ish.co.uk www.casarosaestate.eu

ART COURSE IN CASA ROSA, PERIANA, IN SOUTHERN SPAIN

21ST - 28TH MARCH 2019 FULL BOARD, ART CLASSES AND ENSUITE ROOMS £1,550/PERSON (LESS IF YOU SHARE A ROOM) ARTISTS - FROM BEGINNER TO EXPERT, WILL ENJOY THIS CHALLENGE.

Paint the hills and blossoming orchards of Andalucia, with its clear, Spring light and astonishing mountainscapes. Tutor and artist, Kate Measham, has taught in Hampshire and Zakynthos for over 10 years. Meals cooked by talented chef, Jessica Tatham.

Local wine and produce used.

For more information call: 01980 863155 www.casarosaestate.eu/art-course-malaga www.artdrawpaint.com

Ladies Beginners ‘Get into Golf’ Coaching

at Alresford Golf Club

ONLY £25

The well-known Cheriton Talks are here again.

We are delighted to announce that we have held the price for 5th year running!

for a 4 week course

All sessions 10am - 11am All equipment provided

Week 1

Get to grips with the basic swing

Week 2

Week 3

Chipping & putting

SATURDAY 2ND FEBRUARY In the Footsteps of Amundsen Tim Oakley - Explorer and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society

Week 4

Driving from the tee

Iron play & pitching

Saturday 23rd March, Saturday 30th March, Saturday 6th April & Saturday 13th April For anyone interested in giving golf a try, these introductory sessions are perfect. Our experienced PGA Pro will keep instructions simple and clear.

Learn and make friends with people of similar ability. Have fun!

SATURDAY 16TH FEBRUARY In Your Defence - Stories of Life and Law Sarah Langford - Barrister and Author

For full details of the lessons or to book please contact the Pro-Shop on

01962 733998

SATURDAY 23RD FEBRUARY Turner - The Sun is God Douglas Skeggs - Art Hsitorian and Author

or visit our website

www.alresfordgolf.co.uk Advanced booking with payment required either in person or via telephone

SATURDAY 2ND MARCH Swifts - The Bird We Must Not Lose Edward Mayer - Founder of Swift Conservation SATURDAY 9TH MARCH On the Road with Donald Trump Jon Sopel - BBC North American Editor, and Author Venue: St Michael’s Church, Cheriton Time: 6.30pm for canapés and a complimentary

glass of wine, the talks commencing at 7.00pm Tickets: Subject to available seating and please note below • •

•

•

The price will be £12 for each talk Tickets will be for sale in February and can be requested by sending a stamped addressed envelope with your cheque (payable to 'PCC of Cheriton Parish) to: Penny Scott, Burnt Platt, Cheriton, Hampshire SO24 0PY. Tickets will also be on sale in Cheriton Stores and the Flower Pots.

There will be no refunds given unless tickets can be re-sold.

Enquiries to Penny Scott on 01962 771263, and see www.cheritontalks.com All proceeds to St. Michael’s Church Cheriton PLEASE NOTE: As of 12th January, we are sorry to say that all tickets for the DOUGLAS SKEGGS Talk on Turner, and for the JON SOPEL Talk on Donald Trump have been sold.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Dine in style in hotel’s Morn Hill Brasserie

WINTER WARMERS AND SPECIAL TREATS February always feels like one of those in between months, at the tail end of winter with the snowdrops pushing up through the earth to give us hope that spring is on its way. It is the perfect time for some warming and hearty dishes and the four star Holiday Inn Winchester has an extensive food offering all day and into the evening.

“One of the great benefits of visiting our hotel is that food from our various menus is available from breakfast through to 10pm,” commented Sarah Waddington, the hotel’s Sales and Marketing Manager. “Plus Afternoon Tea’s from 2pm - 5pm and our Sunday lunch from 12.30pm until 5pm, which gives visitors much more flexibility when meeting up with friends

and family and unlike town centre venues we have plenty of free car parking.”

The hotel’s various menus are full of nurturing winter into spring dishes on offer, using a wide range of local produce, including options for vegans, vegetarians and those who are gluten free.

“As an AA Rosette Award winning hotel, the standard and quality of the food is often commented on by visitors who come back again and again,” continued Sarah Waddington.

“Our head chef Chris Keel and his team do an amazing job coming up with delicious dishes and imaginative ideas for all of the menus and constantly look for new local produce.”

Visitors can currently enjoy eating in the hotel’s elegant Morn Hill Brasserie, or in the bar, both on the lower ground floor of the hotel,

while work continues on the creation of a new restaurant, open lobby and to go cafe on the upper ground floor, to be opened in April.

The refurbishment project began in January and will be completed in a number of smaller phases that will enable the hotel to continue to provide its existing facilities of restaurant, bar and lounge areas until the upper ground floor transformation is completed in April 2019.

This will be followed by the creation of a new Spa on the lower ground floor level that will be completed in July 2019. The Spa will also have a private screened outdoor terrace relaxing area.

Inside the luxurious treatment rooms will offer peaceful spaces for visitors to be pampered and there will be a gym, studio and hydrotherapy pool.

“In the lead up to the Spa opening we will be pre-selling Spa memberships to local people who want to have a relaxing escape from their busy lives and they can call us for more details and to register their interest,” concluded Sarah Waddington.

The hotel has created an additional offer menu with two courses for two, with a glass of house wine or soft drink for just £39.99 per couple, or £20 per individual diner, served in the Morn Hill Brasserie. To see the offer menu and book online visit www.hiwinchester.co.uk or call 01962 670700

Two Dine for £39.99 Available All Day 7 days a week

Two courses plus a drink Enjoy two delicious courses in the Morn Hill Brasserie plus a drink per person. Choose from lunch or dinner and enjoy dishes such as Uptons of Bassett Beef Burger, Oriental Duck Salad with pineapple and cashew nuts and the Vegan Sweet Potato, Chickpea and Spinach Curry.

Visit www.hiwinchester.co.uk to book or call 01962 670700 Terms and conditions apply – not valid with any other offer.

AA Rosette Award

ENTERTAINMENT

Tichborne Park Cricket Club Winter Training Programme

Tichborne Park Cricket Clubs winter training programme starts early in the new year ready for the 2019 season!

We are a family friendly club set in the historic Tichborne Park Estate (situated just past Alresford Golf Club).

Senior training runs from Saturday 19th January to Saturday 30th March 2019 (break for half-term) at Perin’s School Sports Hall, Alresford 1-3pm. For more details contact Martin Cheyney, Club

Captain on 07747 152380 or email tichborneparkcc@hotmail.co.uk Junior training also takes place at Perin’s School Sports Hall, Alresford with our ECB qualified coach.

Age groups are as follows: Under 9s Monday evenings 5-6pm Under 11s Friday evenings 5-6pm Under 13s and Under 15s Friday evenings 6-7pm. For full details please contact Pete Spain on: coltstpcc@btinternet.com

New members are always welcome!

We received exciting news at the end of 2018 that our planning application for the new pavilion was approved. We are now looking for any volunteers who may be able to help with fundraising or grant applications. If you are able to help please contact us on tichborneparkcc@hotmail.co.uk

OLGA AT THE THEATRE

No Man’s Land

TWO PLAYS ABOUT THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN WW1

6-16 FEB @ 7.30PM & SUN 10 @ 2.30PM (NO PERF 11 FEB)

18-23 FEB @7.30PM

25 FEB-2 MAR @ 7.30PM

6-16 MAR @ 7.30PM & SUN 10 @ 2.30PM (NO PERF 11 MAR)

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EDUCATION

COMMUNITY

GODOLPHIN DROPS ENTRANCE EXAMS FOR THEIR PREP PUPILS

GO EXPLORE

Starting a new senior school is a big step and can be a daunting experience. This is without the stress of the exams to get you there.

In a bid to reduce sustained pressure on pupils and parents, Godolphin School, Salisbury, has dropped the requirement of an Entrance Exam for their Year 6 Prep pupils, who join in either Year 4 or Year 5, moving up to Godolphin Senior School.

Head of Godolphin Prep, Julia Miller and George Budd, Academic Deputy, are confident that the broad curriculum and regular monitoring and reporting already in place are rigorous enough to ensure that Godolphin Prep girls thrive in the Senior School.

Julia Miller says, “We are concerned about girls’ mental health and wellbeing and we believe this move will help us to reduce unnecessary testing and the pressure of tutoring. Our girls already have access to all facilities across the Godolphin site so are familiar with IT suites, Science Labs, Performing Arts Centre and the Art Block. These are just some of the benefits of being part of the whole Godolphin community.”

For further information, please contact Head of Admissions, Corinna Florence Florencec@godolphin.wilts.sch.uk or telephone 01722 430545

'EN CANOT AND THE ACCIDENTAL ARTIST' Local author William Nicoll has released his Debut Novel – En Canot and the Accidental Artist - a humorous tale about a long lost cubist painting set on the West Coast of Scotland.

With a smattering of eccentric aristocrats, an overweight Chinese oligarch and a scheming Russian with a devious mind, it promises to be an exciting Scottish caper; that is until Ranald Milngavie, a hapless Glaswegian artist, stumbles into the scam and suddenly the best laid plans go horribly awry!

Available at Laurence Oxley, Broad Street, Alresford

Experience a school morning at Godolphin Prep Friday 1 March 9.30–11.30 a.m.

FRANC

HA LEAL

ETO GE

www.godolphin.org

HOME

EDUCATION

NURSERY, PREP, SENIOR, SIXTH FORM CO-ED, 2-18, DAY & BOARDING

Open Morning

Tuesday 12th March 9.00am-12.00pm

Competent, confident and compassionate individuals Maid Marian Ad 90 x 135

31/1/10

12:38

www.hampshirecs.org.uk

Page 1

Maid Marian

PROFESSIONAL DOMESTIC SERVICES

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES BUILT WITH PRIDE High quality domestic services Guaranteed One less thing to think about.

We can help.

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

Extensions, conversions and renovations built by our Hampshire family firm Call us to discuss your requirements for • new extensions and additions • barn and outbuilding conversions • garages, stables, kitchens and home offices • restoration of homes old and new Affordable quality combined with personal service.

01962 771 815 or 07917 150 027 jason@silkservices.co.uk • www.silkservices.co.uk Design Build Install

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COMMUNITY

ALRESFORD TOWN COUNCIL REPORTS •

•

•

NATC Finance Report You may recall that last year’s Finance Report confirmed an expenditure budget of £317,150 for the year 2018/2019, and noted that new reserve accounts were to be established to meet specific items of major future expenditure identified by the Council.

Unfortunately, whilst these works had been identified and provisional costings obtained, the Council was forced to postpone the start of some of these projects due to a lack of staff resources.The monies obtained for these projects has been set aside and it is hoped that now that we have a permanent Town Clerk and Deputy Town Clerk these works will now be able to progress.

At the time of writing, our current financial forecasts for 31st March 2019, which is the Council’s financial year end, indicate that collectively the operating Committees will come in under budget.This expenditure figure includes the following grants; • Alresford Senior Citizens Lunch Club - £920 towards hall hire cost.

• New Alresford Town Trust £2625 towards grass cutting and tree care on The Avenue.

• The Giles Group £300 and £350 - towards hall hire costs.

• Alresford Tennis Club £750 towards resurfacing of tennis courts.

• Age Concern £400 towards the Village Agent scheme.

St John’s Church £3000 towards upkeep and maintenance of the churchyard and burial ground Winchester Live at Home Scheme £400 towards exercise classes run in Alresford St John’s church £500 towards bench repairs.

In our statement last year we referred to the need to start a process of creating reserves specifically to cover the cost of substantial future expenditure.

The Council is in fact required to carry reserves to ensure that it can always meet its contracted financial obligations and to set aside funds for emergencies.

Following lengthy debate at the various Committees we have set up Earmarked Reserves to meet future replacement of playground equipment, future roof repairs and contribution to major projects to be undertaken with additional monies from the Community Infrastructure Levy. At the time of writing the proposed Precept for 2019/2020 is being finalised: Councillors are mindful of the pressures on household incomes and they have sought to restrict the required increase, despite increasing demands on services.

The Council Tax Support Grant that we historically received to subsidise the Precept has now ceased.Winchester City Council will be debating budget proposal on the 28th February and full details of the outcome of these discussions will be provided on the NATC and WCC websites. Finally, we are pleased to say that there is an increasing number of Council financial documents available for your inspection on the NATC web site ww.newalresford-tc. gov.uk, these include; Council Accounts, year to-date and year end Grants awarded during the year Audit reports, Loans taken out by the Council, Finance

Committee minutes and much more.These documents are of course also available for inspection at the Council offices.

Wanted Clerks Assistant New Alresford Town Council (NATC) is seeking a clerks assistant to assist with the numerous and varied administrative duties conducted within the office. Ideally the individual will have the ability to multi-task, be efficient and comfortable a member of a small team. Managing administrative support and good communication skills with a variety of person is essential in this position.The ideal candidate for this job is resourceful, a good problem solver and organized. Comfortable with social media applications and updating NATC website. Assuring a stead completion of workload in a timely manner is key to success in this position.The hours of work will be 37 hours per week and may include evening meetings as required.The salary will be based on Spinal Column Point (SCP) 26 = £23,866 per annum (pro rata). Details of the post and how to apply are available on the NATC website. Closing date for applications 28 February 2019 to be forwarded to; townclerk@ newalresford-tc.gov.uk. Interviews will commence week 4 March 2019.

Brexit Hampshire County Council have been discussing the possible implications of Brexit on the

internal workings of the County Council.Whilst discussing Brexit HCC also noted the additional information that is available for EU citizens currently residing in the UK.The additional information is available by way of email updates on the scheme for ‘Settled and Presettled status for EU citizens and their families.’We understand that it will cost £65 to register (£32.50 under 16) Details are available on: www.gov.uk/settled-status-eucitizens-families.

Community Infrastructure Levy Concern has been expressed that projects to be aided by the Community Infrastructure Levy have been slow in coming forward.

The response received suggests that the updating of the local planning authority’s Regulation 123 list would assist in the speed in which funds were allocated. It was noted that, the Community Infrastructure Levy requires transparency as a matter of course and so to ensure that there is no double-dipping on funding sources, schemes for which CIL is identified to be the funding source are to be set out in the local planning authority’s Regulation 123 list.The process therefore requires each local authority to ensure that its 123 list is up to date and reflects the requirements identified by both the local authority and local communities.

New Alresford Town Council Arlebury Park,The Avenue, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9EP Tel: 01962 732079 www.newalresfordtc.org.uk

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COMMUNITY

ALRESFORD RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB Alresford Rugby Club look forward to this romantic month of love. To much relief of players, wives and girlfriends, we have no games on the 14th. That might have have been a difficult conversation to have with loved ones, but luckily we play on the 16th when all the loving and arguments about an over priced night out are nearly forgotten. We came back to the New Year missing so many players through injuries, but the commitment of those fit was inspiring. The First XV's first test was against a very good Bognor side, and despite only going down to one score(15-20) left us all

ALLEN GALLERY, ALTON TALKS Thursday February 28th – The Neatham Dig – A Look at Alton’s Roman Predecessor Town. Local archaeologist David Graham, who took part in The Dig, shares his knowledge. 7.30pm, tickets £5 from the Gallery, to include light refreshments.

feeling a mixture of pride and disappointment.

The following week we travelled to Eastleigh and the boys put in such a strong performance, determined to right what went wrong in the home fixture, and secured a brilliant and well executed away win,(39-5) to put us in high spirits for the remaining fixtures. We did have a new water boy for this game who wanted to claim a lot of the credit, but his name escapes me! That result lifted us to mid table with a game in hand.

On a much more somber note, certain members have lost truly dear people since my last entry. Win, lose or draw, rugby creates a family that pulls together, so all at ARFC we remember Naomi and Torbs. We also remember Alex at this time. So much love.

The 2's had a difficult December with possibly the worst conditions known to man down at Lymington and the game was lost. Not to be down hearted, Gavin, as ever, raised another team to take on the return fixture and although defeated, by all accounts resulted in a very close and hotly disputed match- 12-35.

Become part of something..ARFC We look forward to seeing you all soon.

Upcoming February Fixtures for your diary:

We will be hosting lunches this month, where all and everyone are invited. All our magnificient sponsors will be notified. Thank you all. Please check website for details.

If you do attend one of our fixtures/lunches in February, it is very important that you do not, under any circumstances, mention our water boy! Comment on anything else, just not him!

HAMPSHIRE 3 09/02/19 MILLBROOK 2NDS (A)...2.30PM 16/02/19 I.O.W (H)...2.30PM

COUNCILLOR - KIM A GOTTLIEB REPORTS

councillor, and to those who may have had hopes or problems that I couldn’t assist with I can only apologise. Sun Hill was a matter that I was particularly concerned about. I will continue to remain interested and will do my best, along with other local councillors, to ensure that developer promises are kept and that the affordable housing and road works are properly delivered. Other issues that I will continue to be actively involved in, whether or not I am elected, include Boomtown and the Cart & Horses junction.

Thursday March 14th – “An Hour with Gilbert White in Selborne” presented by Ronnie David Houston. 7.30pm FREE Thursday March 28th – “Gardening with Nature” by Maddy Harland. “How can we create sanctuaries that feed local wildlife, provide us with food and are resilient to the climatic extremes we are now experiencing?” Maddy is an author and editor, co-founder of Permanent Publications and the Sustainability Centre in East Meon. 7.30pm, tickets £5 from the Gallery, to include light refreshments.

EXHIBITION This year’s major Exhibition of paintings by W H Allen, on the subject of Agriculture, continues until February 23rd.

The Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery, Alton (01420 82802) www.hampshireculturaltrust.org.uk Hours are Tues-Sat, Gallery 10.30 - 4.30, Museum 10 – 5

It has been a privilege and a pleasure to represent the residents and businesses of Itchen Valley (since 2011) and also of Alresford (since 2016), but I have decided to move on. Most of my time as a Winchester City Councillor in what has been an interesting and, occasionally, challenging period has been focussed on major development projects within the city, including Silver Hill, Bar End (Sports Centre) and Station Approach. Therefore, in May 2019 I will be standing as the Lib Dem candidate in the St Michael ward where the first two sites are located, and which is close to the third.

Until May 2nd, I will still be your City Councillor and continue to represent you and respond to any matters you need progressed. I hope that I have been of some use as a local

We move forward with their names always in our thoughts and they continue to inspire us.

We have more than 18 players on a match day, we have their spirit with us.

HAMPSHIRE PREMIERSHIP 09/02/19 FAREHAM HEATHERNS (A)...2.30PM 16/02/19 FORDINGBRIDGE (H)...2.30PM

On behalf of Alresford Rugby Club, thank you for your 2018 support and we look forward to your needed 2019 love. And thank you.

Another concern of mine is the retail core of Alresford which seems to be more under stress than ever before. How we protect and enhance high streets is now a ‘national issue’ and it will take time and innovative thinking to find solutions. A starting point has to be all of us supporting the various retailers as best we can, especially the traditional services such as the newsagent, butcher, fishmonger, hardware store, chemist, greengrocer, pet shop and all those other much loved units that together create the beating heart of this wonderful town.

Itchen Valley and Alresford may comprise a blessed corner of the earth, but there are always issues to resolve so I would like to close by encouraging others to enter the fray, either as city or town or parish councillors. Your help is much needed and will always be appreciated.

Best wishes Kim - Cllr Kim A Gottlieb

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COMMUNITY

JACKIE’S COUNTY CORNER Footpath, Cycle & Bridleway claims You may be aware there is a 2026 deadline for claims for new paths. With roughly a 13 year backlog, the County Council is having to revise its policy.

In my opinion, this is well overdue and I welcome any method that can speed up the process. But the aim is to reduce to a 5 year waiting list by 2024: I’d like the County Council to clear the backlog completely. If you have made a claim and would like to comment on the process, please contact me on Jackie.porter@hants.gov.uk Thank you.

An additional £8.1m Social Services from Government will be spent on Children’s Social Care this year-as the number of children looked after is rising steadily. This money is vital. The children may have suffered abuse in this country or escaped from war in another country, or have disabilities that need specialist care. All placements are expensive to the Council and hard for the families who have to cope. We as a community have a duty to them all.

Meanwhile the NHS has issued a new NHS Long Term Plan.You read it at www.longtermplan.nhs.uk The CCTV is installed at the Cart and Horses and should be in operation soon :it is hoped it will give more insight into traffic movements here. I have asked to view some sample CCTV footage this month: it will be interesting to see what the cameras can see..

Winter preparations You may have seen the hand done tree cutting carried out by HCC along major and minor highways over the winter: resulting in wider road widths and higher spaces-hopefully less buses will be scratched now! Check your local grit bin now. If it’s empty, please follow instructions under the lid for a refill.

Important: HCC is upgrading its IT system, including the website. HCC has put in additional security. When ‘live’, this will result in anyone with Windows 7 or before not being able to access the website. As yet, I don’t know how much of a problem this will be, but we councillors have asked for a dedicated helpline to advise customers.

There will be a ‘banner’ explaining this issue if your computer won’t access the website.

To avoid the problem:• Check that your Windows operating system is Windows 8 or higher.

• Tell anyone you think this might affect- you can download Windows 10 for free, and give them a helping hand please.

‘M3 becomes a Lorry Park in event of long queues for the ports’. This rather worrying headline was reported in early January. This was news to me and others! I have asked for the facts at HCC. Hopefully we won’t get to that point…

Would you like to volunteer with The Watercress Way? We carry out local projects on the disused railway lines, shortly including an exciting one in Sutton Scotney. We also work in the Itchen Valley, Alresford and Kings Worthy. Please contact me if you are interested.

Cllr Jackie Porter 01962 791054, 07973 696 085 Jackie.porter@hants.gov.uk Twitter: @JackieLibDem

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL SUPPORTS CAMPAIGN CUTTING BACK ON SUGAR Hampshire County Council is supporting Change4life, a new campaign to encourage families to ‘make a swap when you next shop’ and help them cut back on sugar.

Councillor Patricia Stallard, Executive Member for Public Health at the local authority, said “Most of the sugar children are having comes from sugary drinks, confectionery, biscuits, cakes, desserts, plus higher-sugar breakfast cereals and yoghurts.

Change4Life aims to make it simple for families to swap sugary food and drinks for healthy options.”

Children in England are having around 2,800 sugar cubes more than they should each year , more than double the maximum recommended amount. Too much sugar is bad for children’s health as it can lead to the build-up of harmful fat on the inside that we cannot see. This fat can cause weight gain and serious diseases like type 2 diabetes, which people are getting younger than ever before, and heart disease and some cancers. Too much sugar can also cause painful tooth decay.

Some supermarkets will be highlighting healthier options in-store and many will be using a new Change4Life ‘good choice’ badge to make it even easier for families to make healthier choices.

Primary school age children will receive a free take-home pack from school in midJanuary. The pack takes children on an ‘Adventure in Sugar Smart World’ and features fun games and stickers to get children to spot the higher-sugar food and drinks and choose healthier swaps. It also provides easy tips on everyday sugar swaps for the whole family.

For information, search www.nhs.uk/changeforlife

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GARDEN HOME

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youforgotten dream ofal-fresco simply relaxing with a well earned glass of wine, or are hosting that never to be forgotten al-fresco Whether you dream of simply relaxing with a well earned glass of wine, or are hosting thatWhether never to be thatcheddreams or timber into roofed Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services will turn your dreams into party. A thatched or timber roofed Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services willparty. turnA your reality - it just couldn’t be easier.

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Equestrian Fencing Services All gazebos from Equestrian Fencing Services are made All gazebos from Equestrian Fencing Services are madeoffer an extensive range of ENTRANCE GATES • EQUESTRIAN BUILDINGS Gazebos from acarefully materials. They are designed to provide a shower proof materials. They are designed to provide shower selected proof timber from well managed sustainable forests, size and style of garden. environment. It is important to appreciate that in severe sustainable forests, to suit every size and style of garden. environment.•It isLOG important to appreciate thattoinsuit severe OAK GARAGES • SHEDS STORES • every GARDEN GATES Equestrian Fencing Services offer an extensive range of

Gazebos from carefully selected timber from well managed

weather conditions there may be a chance of water

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Specifically designed accessories ingress. We recommend with the thatched range that you to fit our range of

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Unless stated all Gazebos come with a deck base, solid and

Unless stated all Gazebos A full set of gazebo accessories can be found on the come insidewith a deck base, solid and

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balustrade infill panels. Delivery and assembly on to level back page of this brochure.

back page of this brochure.

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from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true!

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Equestrian Fencing Services High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath, Southampton, Hampshire, SO32 2JR

Equestrian Fencing Services High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath, Southampton, Hampshire, SO32 2JR

Tel: 01329 835100 Fax 01329 835157 Email: info@equestrianfencing.com please visit www.equestrianfencing.com

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from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true!

from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true!

With all the benefits of a thatched or timber roofed Gazebo

With all the benefits of a thatched or timber roofed Gazebo

pre-prepared base is also included in the price.

pre-prepared base is also included in the price. back page of this brochure.

balustrade infill panels. Delivery and assembly on to level back page of this brochure.

balustrade infill panels. Delivery and assembly on to level

A full set of gazebo accessories can be found on the inside

Unless stated allfound Gazebos come with a deck base, solid and A full set of gazebo accessories can be on the inside

Unless stated all Gazebos come with a deck base, solid and and privacy. Available in a choice of terracotta or green.

and privacy. Available in a choice of terracotta or green. are available to further enhance your comfort invest in a roof liner to Gazebos improve water protection.

Gazebos are available to further enhance your comfort

Specifically designedrange accessories to fit our range of ingress. We recommend with the thatched that you

Specifically designed accessories to fit our range of

invest in a roof liner to improve water protection. ingress. We recommend with the thatched range that you weather conditions there may be a chance of water

weather conditions there may be a chance of water

environment. It is important to appreciate that in severe

sustainable forests, that to suit every size and style of garden. environment. It is important to appreciate in severe

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materials. They are designed to provide a shower proof

Gazebos from carefully selected materials. They are designed to provide a shower proof timber from well managed

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V I E W U S O N G O O G L E E A RT H

Come & Visit Our Yard & Display Area

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HOME ANIMALS & PETS

ALABAMA ROT (CRGV)

A

Cedar Veterinary Group knows of only one confirmed case in the area and it is still regarded as a relatively uncommon condition. If you are worried, we advise to wash your dog’s legs/feet/tummies off after a walk and look out for signs of redness/swelling/ulceration on these areas. We would also refer you to the Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists website (https://www.andersonmoores.com/owner/CRGV. php) as they are the leading experts on the subject. Furthermore, if you have any concerns please contact Cedar Veterinary Group to speak to your vet who can advise you on the best course of action.

The first signs of CRGV can be a skin sore (i.e. a raised, red and raw patch of skin (lesion) on a limb or the underbelly which is not related to a previous injury. The lesion would be circular in shape and usually becomes dark in the centre before ulcerating. Some dogs may appear well in themselves; however, if the disease has affected the kidneys then they may shows signs of being off-colour such as lethargy, stiffness, sickness and diarrhoea.

Written by Liza Freeman RVN - Cedar Veterinary Group www.cedarvet.com Alton: 01420 82163 Alresford: 01962 732535 Four Marks: 01420 562048

number of new cases of this uncommon but significant disease have been recently reported across the UK. Alabama Rot was first identified in America in the 1980’s and more recently in the UK. The cause is unclear but it seems to be a seasonal problem, occurring in winter and spring.

Alabama Rot is medically known as cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy (CRGV) as it affects the skin and the kidneys.

An exclusive service in the heart of Alresford

CRGV can be treated and the outcome will vary on how the dog has been affected. Currently, there is no one test which can confirm CRGV but urine and blood checks can help to establish kidney function. Dogs with skin lesions only from CRGV recover well. Those with affected kidney function may receive fluid therapy and/or other medication and their kidney function closely monitored. If you suspect that your dog may have skin lesions of unknown cause or be unwell in themselves it is advisable to contact your vet for advice. It may well just be a graze or a cut which occurred whilst out walking your dog but as treatment may be needed to treat the wound anyway it is best to seek veterinary advice.

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

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FEATURE HOME

PART TWO

LIVE AND LET THRIVE S

he hasn’t been in the spare room for a while. Sitting on the bed, not knowing what to do with herself. Where to put herself. Surgery didn’t quite sort it and now there’s the smell of radiation in her nose. Impossible - it doesn’t smell of anything, but real or not, it’s there. Conversely, she can’t smell anything else. Bizarrely, everything tastes of cream, even her tears as she licks them from her deeply, unnaturally tanned top lip.

Vaguely aware that there are only four spiders. Robbie’s gone then.

“Love?” Blessim is calling up the stairs. His poor face wears a look of haunted apprehension.

“Yes, I’m just coming down.” He’s taken to driving her into the forest. Says the trees are good for her, something about positive ions? She goes because she’s no energy to say ‘no’. And it doesn’t really matter where she feels like she’s dying, home or away. ................................................................

It crossed her mind to end it all, but she couldn’t summon the enthusiasm. And now the treatment’s over. With sympathy in their voices they’d said she’d feel worse before she felt better.

They were right, but at least there’s the hope that she’ll feel well again, happy again, fancy a curry again.

She’s drifted into the spare room. The bin bags are still there.

Events overtook her before she had a chance to adios them. It’s an ill wind, her own mother would have said - her daughter’s clothes actually look pretty good on her. They always did have similar taste.

Five spiders. Robbie’s back then. He looks bigger. ................................................................

Blessim has discovered and embraced the ethos of de-cluttering.

He’s cleared out his loft, his shed, his man drawer and the eBay bag. Blessim has also embraced car booting. It was a warm autumn and, feeling a bit better, she finds it pleasant sitting in a deckchair, beside the van, in a field, on a Sunday morning.

Putting the cash in the bedside drawer, next to the bangles, she

thinks the room needs a bit of a dusting. Back down to four spiders. Robbie’s gone again then. That didn’t last long. ................................................................

Only three left; leggy, smallish and medium. With no sign of any flies, she’s starting to suspect that the spiders might be eating each other. The grisly remains (no body, just legs) of the gangly one by the light fitting seems to proves her right. That’s grim.

And when she’d been to see them for her birthday – the band, not the spiders - there were only three by then. Wondering what happened to that other tall one, she laughs out loud. No.. unlikely they ate him.

Like childbirth, the memories of the treatment are starting to dwindle. Blessim’s expression has resumed its benign good humour, although he’s still insisting on a weekly walk in the forest.

Sweet. ................................................................

Her girl’s return is imminent! Making the spare bed with clean bedclothes scented with ‘fresh sky’, or so she hopes, the old sense of smell isn’t what it was. Ditto the old sense of taste, but she’s been cooking her daughter’s favourites and loading up the freezer; lasagne, chicken fajitas, chilli, cottage pie. KP and chief taster, Blessim hasn’t stopped smiling.

The strange tan has faded and she feels well.You can’t really see the scars and, on a small screen, neither could her daughter. And she herself had not guessed that the love that took her girl to the other side of the world had faded too. Seems they’d both been faketiming.

One spider left. Medium. Gary? He seems to be the last one standing and she feels it’s time he was free to make beautiful music outside in the Virginia creeper.

“Goodbye Gary. I love you, but if she clocks you tomorrow she’ll freak. And she’s Back for Good, Gary, my baby’s Back for Good!” In a voice ruined by radiation, she sings. © 2019 Lucia Foster-Found www.luciafosterfound.com

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L.Sheppard Plastering All aspects undertaken

Quality Finishes Tel: 07547 190332 liamsheppardplastering@gmail.com @liamplaster

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James White Fencing & Gates Ltd Appledown Lane, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9PB T: 01962 732786 or E: info@jameswhitefencing.com W:jameswhitefencing.com

Fencing & Timber Merchants

Open to the trade and public

We supply competitively priced fencing

We are open Monday to Friday 7.30am – 5pm

materials and timber, gates, fixtures, fittings, wire and more. We have a well stocked yard, offer a friendly helpful service and free local delivery to Alresford customers.

· Fencing contractors

· Timber merchants

· Manufacturers of bespoke

entrance gates · Gate automation specialists

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HOME COMMUNITY

HAMPSHIRE EXPLORER COMES TO OLD ALRESFORD

ALRESFORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWS January is the month for planning, and the Chamber already has several events in place for 2019. We plan to set up Information boards, near the station and in town, where events and projects can be displayed. They will list major Alresford events over the year, not just those organized by the Chamber, to include the Watercress and Music festivals, War on the Line, and many more.

The boards are for the interest of local people as well as day-visitors - who may want to return when they see how much happens here!

If you’d like to sponsor, or be involved in, the following projects, please get in touch at info@ alresfordchamber.co.uk

An eye-opening evening is in store next month when award-winning adventurer John Pilkington tells the story of his latest trip.

We’re welcoming two new members this month: Rawlings, known for personal service and their attractive windows displays, was founded in 1895. Their premises at Winchester opened in 1923 and their Alresford branch in 1993. rawlingsopticians.co.uk Wildbunch in West Street . They have been decorating Alresford, with colourful floral displays outside their shop, since October 2013. wildbunchflorists.co.uk We’ve had successful meetings, with both Hampshire County and Winchester City councils, about various problems raised by members. Do let us know if there’s anything we can raise on your behalf. We continue to work on those issues for our members.

Easter Egg Hunt: 8th – 22nd April Ghost Hunt: 19th – 27th October.

CHRISTMAS EVENTS AND CHARITY WORK IN ALRESFORD

1)

The arrival of Father Christmas earlier in December used five mobility scooters from the stock held for recycling round the elderly people in the district, firstly for the evil Grinch helpers who were stealing the presents, and secondly for Father Christmas himself. He needed a big one! Currently the Pigs have a large stock of scooters available, stored in the Alresford Men’s Shed premises in the Dean.

Keep track of our events, follow us on Facebook Twitter & Instagram @AlresfordChamberofCommerce / AlresfordCofC / info@alresfordchamber. co.uk /www.alresfordchamber.co.uk 2) Throughout 2018 TESCO in Alresford has been distributing surplus unsold bread and bakery products to the elderly community in Alresford, via the Giles Group coffee mornings on a Tuesday, and via the Community Centre coffee mornings on a Friday. The food not distributed from these events is delivered to Makins Court for collection by the residents there.

3) On Christmas day in previous years a community lunch was made available in Makins Court, to bring together the people who otherwise might be alone on the day. This year it was not possible to arrange this lunch, so the chefs and managers at Bailey House and at Old Alresford Rest Home both stepped forward and volunteered to arrange similar community lunches. Surprisingly this wider distribution of activities turned out to be very useful…..

4) On Christmas Eve, Winchester Lions were contacted by Ocado, the food distribution company, with an urgent request to distribute some surplus short dated food: they wished to donate this free of charge to local charities, to avoid the possible waste. Most of the items were pre-

In 1868 the British government mounted an extraordinary bid to rescue a small clutch of European hostages in the Abyssinian highlands.

They built a Red Sea port, a railway across the coastal plain, and finally brought in 44 Indian elephants and took on 26,000 local people to serve the soldiers and carry their heavy guns into the heart of Africa.

A hundred and fifty years later, John followed their route, partly on foot with a donkey, and compared Eritrea and Ethiopia then and now.

He found today’s people spirited and energetic, living in dramatic and extremely challenging lands.

On his return he said, “The walking part of the trip was one of the most difficult I’ve ever done. In both countries, ox-ploughs and mud-and-thatch houses are the norm over wide areas, and these would have been familiar to the soldiers who marched through the Abyssinian mountains all those years ago. But towns like Gonder and Lalibela are a joyous mix of ancient and new. If you haven’t been to this part of the Horn of Africa, you’re missing a treat.”

‘To Eritrea and Ethiopia: Retracing a Victorian Expedition’ is at the Christy Hall, Old Alresford on Friday 8th February, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets £12 (under-18s and seniors £10) from Dave Exelby on 01962 736007, or email talk2019@exelby.net. Drinks will be available at the hall.

packaged meat products, requiring refrigeration or freezing, so this was not suitable for the normal food-banks. Having filled all the available capacity in Winchester, the Lions looked to send the food out more widely, and contacted the Alresford Pigs mid-morning to ask for help with known distribution centres in Alresford. At 3pm a fully loaded Transit van arrived in Alresford, and the crates were distributed to all the Fridges and Freezers in the Makins Court common room, then to the chefs at both Bailey House and to the Old Alresford Rest Home – all completed before dark.

Don't know what happened on Christmas Day, but its good to know the local charities and broader community can organise itself to take positive action in so many ways when needed!

Nick Denbow

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