OUR REGULAR MONTHLY FEATURE
The Language of Love by Lucia Foster-Found
NEWS & EVENTS FOR FEBRUARY
Find out what's going on in the Meon Valley
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Lamb Stew with Apple & Cinnamon
SOUTH DOWNS
NATIONAL PARK
Big boost for community projects across South Downs to begin 2025
STYLE ˙ INTERIORS ˙ HEALTH & BEAUTY ˙ INTERVIEWS ˙ FOOD & DRINK ˙ ENTERTAINMENT ˙ EVENTS
A fine, classical grade ll listed family home, lying impressively within beautiful established grounds of approximately 0.24 of an acre. Inside, the house is equally grand, perfectly proportioned with high ceilings and an abundance of period character and ambience. Four generously sized bedrooms, with an ensuite/dressing area to the main bedroom, family bathroom. Dining hall, drawing room, sitting/sun room and study/family room. Kitchen/breakfast room with adjoining larder/utility area. Cloakroom. Cellar. Double garage. Early viewing advised.
A lovely well presented town house, perfectly set in the heart of Bishop’s Waltham just a few minutes stroll away from the historic high street. The property has the great advantage of a garage and private parking. Inside, the house offers delightful, light and airy accommodation, with three bedrooms, bathroom and a ground floor cloakroom. A kitchen/dining room with double doors opening onto a charming walled courtyard garden and a sitting room with a large picture window overlooking the rear aspect. Viewing recommended.
Superb property, perfectly set within extensive grounds of approximately 2.98 acres in a semi-rural location on the outskirts of Bishop’s Waltham. The house, gardens and paddocks offer tremendous potential for refurbishment and present as a great opportunity to design and create a country home with paddocks and/ or a ‘good life’ small holding. Viewing advised.
Waltham Chase – Offers in excess of £625,000 (subject to an agricultural occupancy condition)
Superb spacious bungalow, set in a fabulous semi-rural location with lovely forward views over the surrounding countryside. The grounds of the property extend to approximately half an acre and offer great potential both inside and out. Double Garage. For further information and appointments to view, please contact the team in Bishop’s Waltham.
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Bespoke sizing - Media walls, boot rooms, custom offices, installed by ex-shipwright joiners with exceptional attention to detail
Happy Kitchens have a unique approach when it comes to kitchens and custom spaces in the home. We use excellent quality materials which are fitted by exshipwright joiners, who used to fit the woodwork on Super Yachts. That in itself is unique in our industry but then add in the fact that we are bespoke, but don’t charge the inflated prices that your highend high street showrooms do, gives us the recipe for your perfect home solution. This is why we are one of the highest rated home improvement companies on HOUZZ, beating all the top names you might recognise when walking down your high street.
We have never had less than a 5 star
review and have won the HOUZZ best of service award every year since it has been running. The staff at HOUZZ reference us to other companies as to how customer service should be done. Many of our customers have used us 2 or 3 times due to moving house or tackling other projects in their existing houses.
We do not have a template for design and take a fresh approach with every customer. It is important to take all the best ideas a customer has, then bring in the experience we have to offer, and often our ideas will be completely different to any other companies as we are innovative and bespoke. We often hear that customers have had designs and quotes that all look the same, are boring and
• Change as much or as little as you you'd like
• Free no obligation quotation
• Free design service for new projects
unexciting, yet expensive. This is because most high street ‘kitchen designers’ are just salespeople with no idea on how a kitchen works.
So whether you need an amazing Kitchen, Utility, Bedroom, Coffee Bar with custom pod storage, Office, Media Wall or Living Room storage we can help. The design visits are free of charge, and we can quote on the same day. Also Ben loves design, so often at no extra charge, he will help you choose paint colours,
One of the top reviewed companies on Houzz, offering free home design visits
light fittings, bar stools, artwork and can even recommend great pots and pans.
Our customers will often use us again, and recommend us to Family and Friends. The quote from the review above was from a customer who has chosen us twice, and their parents also have a
Happy 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.
• Change as much or as little as you you'd like
• Free no obligation quotation
• Free design service for new projects
Happy Kitchen, and two of the parents' friends.
The biggest compliment we get from our customers is always around our attention to detail and often bringing something completely different to the table. If you are still unsure after reading this, go and read some of our reviews on our Happy Kitchens Houzz profile, and do a search of kitchen companies on there by review rating, we are always close to the top of the list.
Out-of-the-box thinking, bespoke design features, and friendly staff with excellent attention to detail are just a few of the reasons you should call us today. If that isn’t enough please do remember that the design visit is free of charge, so you have nothing to lose.
8 year winner of the Best of Houzz award and one of the highest reviewed kitchen companies on Houzz in the UK
Sun 2, 9 & 16 February
From 10am to 4pm
Chawton House, Chawton, Alton, GU34 1SJ
A symbol of hope, snowdrops signal that Spring is just around the corner and the dark, cold days of winter are soon to disappear. On Snowdrop Sundays throughout February, bring the whole family along. Spot the snowdrops on the South Lawn and through the Wilderness, explore the Walled Garden, and enjoy refreshments in the Old Kitchen Tearoom. Throughout the day we will be running events for all the family, included in the price of admission. House & Gardens Day Ticket: £12.50, Gardens Day Ticket: £8.00, Annual Ticket: £25 West Meon Community Cinema - French Kiss
Friday 14 February
Bar 7.15pm, Film 7.45pm
West Meon Village Hall, GU32 1LH
French Kiss is a romantic comedy staring Meg Ryan and Kevin Kine. We are offering lots of different ticket options. We have an authentic French buffet, desserts and just film. Film only £7 Film plus desserts £12 - served during interval. Film plus full buffet and deserts - £17. For tickets visit: https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/booking/select/ bydrxzqyoxpg
February Half Term Fun at Butser Ancient Farm
Sat 15 to Sun 23 February
From 10am to 4pm
Butser Ancient Farm, Chalton Lane, Chalton, Waterlooville, Hampshire, PO8 0BG
Go on a time-travelling adventure
through the stars this half term! Get hands-on with the ancient past this February half term, and discover the ancient night sky as we celebrate the Dark Skies Festival 2025! The world may have changed, but our night sky is the same as our ancestors’. From Stonehenge to the ancient pyramids, people in the past looked to the skies for meaning, messages, and stories. This February half term, follow a free children’s trail to find the hidden meaning in the stars, get hands-on with star-themed ancient crafts, and learn all about the importance of the night sky in the past as you explore our historic site. To book tickets visit: https://butserancientfarm. ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/ shows/1173646055/ events/428649371
History Group - The Spitfire Makers Trust on Building Spitfires in Hampshire Talk
Monday 17 February
From 7pm to 10pm
East Meon Village Hall, Workhouse Ln, East Meon, Petersfield, GU32 1PF
Subscriptions for 2024/2025 season of talks. Membership: £20 per person. Non-members: £5 per talk. Subscriptions go towards maintaining the EMHG Archive www.eastmeonhistory.org.uk
Wilder Bishop's Waltham
Thursday 20 February
From 7.30pm to 9pm
St.Peter's Church Hall, Free St, Bishop's Waltham, SO32 1EE
The story of our Bishop's Waltham Swifts. A talk by Ady Smith who has spent over 20 years supporting our swift population around Bishop's Waltham.
Walk the Planets with the South Downs National Park
Thursday 20 February
From 6pm to 8.30pm
Queen Elizabeth Country Park Gravel Hill, PO8 0QE
Family-friendly activities at Queen Elizabeth Country Park. Take part in the ‘Walk the Planets’ trail with the planets laid out to scale and stargaze through telescopes (weather permitting), be captivated by our storyteller, and meet and learn about some of our most iconic nocturnal wildlife. Cake, coffee and hot refreshments will be available. Parking: Forest and Butser car parks are open. Dressing for the winter weather and wearing wellies is advised.
BigMud Trails - Classic Element Trail Series
Sunday 23 February
Registration 7.15am, Closes 8.15am
Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Gravel Hill, Horndean, PO8 0QE
Back for our fourth year, these spectacular but challenging courses return! The 1st event in the Classic Element Trail Series, BigMud symbolises the element Earth. We have 2 wild ‘n’ muddy, single lap trail runs around the scenic Meon Valley. You’ll have a choice of Marathon or 16 mile distances, each starting at Queen Elizabeth Country Park in Hampshire, with a 518ft climb up to the highest point in the South Downs, Butser Hill……. twice! Once at the top, you will then head out over the trails and rolling hills of the South Downs National Park, with the finish back where you started at the bottom of Butser Hill. This event will certainly challenge you but the spectacular scenery and friendly, encouraging atmosphere will leave you with an enormous feeling of accomplishment! Big Mud 16 mile race - £39, Big Mud Marathon £49. To enter visit: https:// bigfeatevents.eventrac.co.uk/e/ bigmud-trails-earth-12348
Candlelight Tour at Jan Austen House
Friday 28 February
From 6pm to 7pm and 6.30pm to 7.30pm
Jane Austens House, Chawton, Hampshire, GU34 1SD
Spend some time away from the
depths of winter and step back in time to enjoy a magical evening at Jane Austen’s House. Join us for a unique, candlelit guided tour of the House and discover Jane Austen’s story, told by an expert guide, using the House itself and objects from the collection to set the scene. Walk through rooms Jane and her family knew and loved, discover their traditions and family pastimes, and enjoy the House in a new way! We’ll finish with a glass of wine and the chance to raise a toast to our favourite author! To book visit: https://buy.myonlinebooking. co.uk/janeaustenshouse/sessions. aspx?tid=84
Hello, Christmas has gone and as I write we have avoided snow so far! Our February 4th presentation: is Lyndon Palmer talking on AngloSaxon Detectives. Oh, that’s me! Well, were there any Saxon detectives? They had Reeves, and Hundreds Courts, but no prisons. Perhaps I mean today’s detectives? If you would like to find out, simply come along. And on 18th February Joe Marsden will talk on Coastwatch. Maybe you have seen or visited these coastal buildings where volunteers watch our shores? We meet every first and third Tuesday at 2pm at the Wickham Community Centre during the lecture season. Everybody is welcome. Guests will get an especially warm welcome. (Guests pay £2 to defray speaker costs.) Tea and biscuits are provided after the talk, and we always have pre-loved books for charitable sale.
Lyndon (programme organiser) Contact-07881 991763 Or lyndonplmr@gmail.com www:u3asites.org.uk/meon-valley
If you are starting a business from scratch or expanding and you need people to work for you, your first crucial decision is whether to employ them or engage a selfemployed contractor. Getting this wrong can lead to problems and liabilities further down the line.
Employment status – employee or contractor?
It is simpler to take on a self-employed contractor than to employ them as an employee. However, where an individual is taken on as a self-employed contractor (even with the appropriate contract in place) if the working relationship is actually treated in law as that of employer and employee the individual can bring a legal claim to enforce their rights as an employee. For example, they could claim for unfair dismissal if the relationship is brought to an end. HMRC can also claim for unpaid tax and national insurance payments.
Even if the individual does not fulfil the requirements of an employee, they may still have the status of worker. While this does not give them the same protection as an employee, they have some important rights that a self-employed contractor does not have, such as for unpaid holiday.
This article focuses on the two categories of self-employed contractor and employees. This is a complex area, but here are some relevant factors:
a self-employed contractor is their own boss; they are paid a fee for the work done and can turn work down;
a self-employed contractor decides how to do the work, whereas an employee is under your day-to-day control; an employee is committed to working for you; an independent contractor can decide whether or not to accept new assignments; a self-employed contractor usually has a wide discretion to send someone else to do the job, but an employee must do the work themselves; and the wording of the contract is important but courts, employment tribunals and HMRC will look at the actual working relationship to determine employment status.
Before recruitment of an employee
Work out the role that you want the employee to perform. Although it may sound obvious, this will help target your recruitment and ensure the employee understands the expectations.
Investigate funding, depending on the seniority of the role, it may be worth looking into government apprenticeships or training schemes.
Determine the budget for the salary, including the on-costs which include tax, National Insurance and pension contributions, as well as any benefits that you wish to offer.
Consider if you will need to check the individual’s criminal record through the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Before they start
Register with HMRC as an employer before employment starts to obtain a PAYE number and sort payroll and any pension auto-enrolment.
Get employer’s liability insurance that meets the legal requirements and is in place when employment starts or risk being fined.
Ensure that you comply with health and safety legislation.
· Check your arrangements for data processing so that you meet your obligations under data protection law when collecting, storing and processing information about your employee.
Carry out the necessary pre-employment checks including checking that the employee has the right to work in the UK or your business risks being fined.
How we can help
We can provide key legal documents such as the Employment Contact and can also advise you on engaging the individual as a contractor or employee. This should help minimise the risk of claims and lay the foundations for good working relations with your new staff.
For further information, please contact Linda Wilson in the employment team on 01730 268211 or email lsw@macdonaldoates.co.uk
Thisarticleisforgeneralinformationonlyanddoesnotconstitutelegalorprofessional advice.Pleasenotethatthelawmayhavechangedsincethisarticlewaspublished.
Cuts to the capital gains tax (CGT) exemption mean that arranging your investments as tax efficiently as possible is more important than ever. However, CGT can be highly complex, so it’s important to seek expert advice to avoid paying it unnecessarily. Here are some ways to reduce CGT:
Your annual CGT exemption enables you to make tax-free gains of up to £3,000 in the 2024/25 tax year This can’t be carried forward into the next tax year, so making full use of it each year could reduce the risk of incurring a significant CGT liability in the future.
Transfers between spouses and civil partners are exempt from CGT, so assets can be transferred from one partner to the other to use each person’s annual CGT exemption. The transfer must be a genuine, outright gift
Gains (and losses) made on investments held in an ISA are exempt from CGT. In the 2024/25 tax year, you can invest up to £20,000 in an ISA.
The tactic ‘bed and ISA’ involves selling investments to realise a capital gain and then immediately buying back the same investments inside an ISA. This enables all future gains on the investment to be CGT free. There are risks involved, so if you’re unsure, speak to a financial adviser
Any gains made on investments in an EIS (Enterprise Investment Scheme) are free from CGT if held for three or more years. In certain circumstances, you may be able to defer a capital gain by investing that gain in an EIS qualifying company
The downside of EIS is that these schemes are higher risk than traditional investments.
Making a pension contribution from relevant earnings could help you save on CGT because it effectively increases the upper limit of your income tax band. If, for example, you made a gross pension contribution of £10,000, the point at which higher-rate tax becomes payable would rise from £50,270 to £60,270 (2024/25 tax year). If your capital gain plus other taxable income fell within this extended basic-rate income tax band, CGT would be payable at 18% instead of 24%.
We live and work local to you. We would be delighted to help you and your family achieve financial clarity and stability.
Adam Jarvis Head of Office –Senior Investment Manager
E: adam.jarvis@brewin.co.uk
Kirsty Simpson Financial PlannerDivisional Director
E: kirsty.simpson@brewin.co.uk
46 Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8RY
T: 01962 798000
W: www.brewin.co.uk/our-offices/winchester
The value of investments, and any income from them, can fall and you may get back less than you invested. This does not constitute tax or legal advice. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy. Information contained in this document is believed to be reliable and accurate, but without further investigation cannot be warranted as to accuracy or completeness.
WARNER AND RICHARDSON LLP ARE INDEPENDENT SOLICITORS LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC CITY OF WINCHESTER.
WE HAVE A STRONG, LONG STANDING REPUTATION FOR PERSONAL SERVICE AND HIGH QUALITY LEGAL ADVICE.
FOR INFORMATION ON HOW WE CAN HELP YOU WITH ANY OF THESE MATTERS:-
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PLEASE CONTACT US ON Visit our website:-
The following cars have been carefully selected because of their low mileage, excellent condition and service history. IF YOU HAVE A CAR THAT’S NO LONGER NEEDED, GIVE ME A CALL, IF I DON’T BUY IT, I CAN OFFER SOME FREE ADVICE ON ITS
(20) Honda Jazz 1.5 Crosstar EX Hybrid automatic, 5 door, satellite navigation, front and rear parking sensors + camera, climate control air con, cruise control, alloy wheels, 9,000 miles WAS £19,995 NOW £18,995
(15) Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Plug in hybrid, Climate control air conditioning, cruise control, 25,000 miles, selling on behalf of a client £9995
(16) Honda Jazz EX Automatic, Climate control air conditioning, cruise control, 25,000 miles, selling on behalf of a client £8,995
(13) Honda Jazz ES Automatic, climate control control air conditioning, remote central locking with 2 keys, alloy wheels, electric windows and power folding mirrors, 60,600 miles
ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE FOR AS LITTLE AS £45 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT, MINIMUM 12 MONTH BOOKING FOR PRICE SHOWN) For more information 01962 735137 stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk
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1993 Honda CRX TransTop convertible, automatic, electric power roof, climate control air conditioning, alloy wheels, electric windows and mirrors, Japanese import in 2000 just one lady owner since, 71,000 miles, Full Service History From New. £5995
VIEWING AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
We have the very welcome news from our NGS Head Office in that the total donated to our beneficiaries from the 2024 Season is a staggering £3.5million - £1.1million MORE than the NGS raised in 2023. Of course that means we really have to pull out all the stops in 2025 to try to surpass this figure. As always the lions share (£2.550,00) goes to our main six nursing and health charities - some the Countries bast loved - The Queen’s Nursing Institute: Marie Curie: Macmillan Cancer Support: Hospice UK: Carers Trust and Parkinson’s UK. For 2024 a very significant beneficiary was added to our list: The John King Brain Tumour Foundation.
John King was an extremely popular chef with an international reputation. In 2015 John was diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumour, and sadly passed away in November 2016. You can read more about this Charity on the website, and about the amazing work they are now doing.
Bere Mill, London Road, Whitchurch, RG28 7NH
Opening: Sunday 16th March & Sunday 13th April 1pm to 5pm. Admission: £8.00 children free. Cashless Payments Available. Refreshments: Homemade teas
The garden is built around the early C18 mill on an idyllic isolated stretch of the River Test, east of Whitchurch. The gardens have been built incrementally over 30 years with extensive bulb planting for the Spring garden. The mill buildings were the original location of Portals who first sold bank note paper to the Bank of England from the mill in 1724 and there are interesting industrial and agricultural archaeological remains, including reconstructed water meadow structures. The owners farm the surrounding fields with traditional breeds of sheep and cattle. The mill house and barns were rebuilt to exacting standards after a fire of 2018. The house and farm are self-sufficient in energy, waste and water. A butchery sells the home grown meat from the farm.
This garden also opens By Arrangement for Groups from February to September, and Coaches are welcome. Please contact the owner to discuss requirements and availability. Rupert Nabarro: rupertnab@gmail.com - 07703 161074
Also open in March
Chawton House, Chawton, Alton, GU34 1SJ Open: Sunday 16th March from 10am to 3pm Little Court, Crawley, Winchester, SO21 2PU Open: Sunday & Monday 30th & 31st March from 2pm to 5.30pm.
Wishing you all a Happy Garden Visiting Season.
Pat Beagley (Head of Publicity) pat.beagley@ngs.org.uk National Garden Scheme - Hampshire
Gardening Tips for February by Jill Walmsley, Education Trustee of Hampshire Gardens Trust
February is a pivotal month for gardeners, as the promise of spring lies just around the corner. While the weather can still be unpredictable, it’s the perfect time to start preparing for the growing season ahead. We at the Hampshire Gardens Trust are here to foster an appreciation for heritage gardens but passion for the outdoors starts at home with our own gardens. So here are some essential gardening tips to make the most of February:
1. Prepare Your Soil
If the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged, February is ideal for soil preparation. Remove weeds, add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure, and gently fork the surface of the soil to improve aeration.
2. Start Seed Sowing Indoors
Now’s the time to sow seeds indoors for early crops. Hardy vegetables like tomatoes, chillies, and aubergines can be started in seed trays or small pots on a sunny windowsill or in a heated propagator. Flower seeds, such as sweet peas, can also be sown for vibrant blooms later in the year.
3. Prune Shrubs and Trees
Pruning in February is crucial for certain plants. Trim back roses, wisteria, and late-flowering clematis to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Avoid pruning early-flowering shrubs as you might remove buds.
4. Tidy Up
Clear away dead foliage, fallen leaves, and debris from flower beds to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering. This also makes space for new growth to emerge in spring.
5. Check Tools and Equipment
Now is a good time to clean and sharpen tools, service your lawnmower, and ensure everything is ready for the busy months ahead.
By taking these steps in February, your garden will be well-prepared for a thriving spring. Despite the cold, a little effort this month will yield rewarding results as the seasons change. If you are interested in learning more, you can become a member of the Hampshire Gardens Trust to attend garden lecture days, open gardens and outdoor performances throughout the summer months. Happy gardening!
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Supply and planting large specimen trees and shrubs
Espalier, pleached and instant impact hedges
All trees and shrubs carefully selected
Design, landscaping and ongoing maintenance
Free site visit and consultation
Bosque is a trading name of Just Limegrass Ltd.
Harko: 07710 502798 Tom: 07855 656984 www.bosque international.co.uk
St Swithun’s School in Winchester is delighted to announce the appointment of Shelly Say as the new Head of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) in the Prep School.
Shelly will join the school in the Summer Term, overseeing the Preschool and Reception classes, as well as leading the Early Years staff team. She will also be part of the Prep School’s Senior Leadership Team.
St Swithun’s Prep is a leading independent school on the outskirts of Winchester, welcoming girls and boys aged 3+ into preschool and girls from reception age upwards.
Shelly will join the St Swithun’s family from Prince’s Mead School where she is their current Head of EYFS, as well as a member of the Senior Leadership Team. In her current role she manages the Early Years staff team and teaches a Reception class. Shelly has worked at Prince’s Mead for ten years and was integral in the setting up of their Nursery. Prior to that she worked at Eton End School and Chafyn Grove School in Early Years roles.
Talking about the appointment Liz Norris, Head of St Swithun’s Prep said, “We are thrilled to welcome Shelly to the St Swithun’s community. She brings a wealth of Early Years’ experience to the school, and I know the parents and children will love getting to know her. We are passionate about giving our students the very best start to their educational journey. I have no doubt that Shelly will help ensure our youngest students will have exactly that whilst also making their time here full of adventure and fun.”
Shelly Say added, “I am absolutely delighted to be joining the St Swithun’s family as Head of Early Years. I am passionate about creating nurturing and inspiring environments where children can flourish and develop a lifelong love of learning. I look forward to working closely with the dedicated team, parents, and, most importantly, the wonderful children at St Swithun’s Prep. Together, we’ll ensure their first steps in education are filled with joy, curiosity, and adventure.”
Shelly will succeed Sue Powell, who recently relocated abroad with her family after 3½ years at the school.
Prospective families are invited to meet Shelly and explore the Early Years facilities at St Swithun’s Prep School during the upcoming Early Years Open Afternoon on Friday 14 March at 1:30 pm.
To learn more and book your place, please visit www.stswithuns.com/preschool-and-prepopen-days
Friday 14 March 1.30pm
Includes: Opportunity to see early years provision and facilities
Q&A with our incoming EYFS Head Shelly Say and Prep Head Liz Norris
Informal environment to meet our staff
Scan our QR code to register
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Wrinkle Treatment
Profhilo
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Chemical Peels
Polynucleotides
Fat Reduction and Toning
Pelvic Health & Bladder Weakness
Face and Body Packages
Book a course of four Abdomen Emsculpt Neo treatments with your partner or friend and the original treatment cost will be shared between you. This will save each of you £1000 from the original £2000 treatment cost.
The treatments will be performed side by side on the comfort of your own luxury treatment couches as the appointments are required to be performed together.
The treatment is designed to help:
Abdomen Arms Calves Bum Thighs
Help eliminate fat cells and build muscle in a single 30-minute treatment
Say no to incontinence and yes to confidence.
BTL EMSELLA represents a new category of technology that provides a non-invasive treatment for pelvic floor muscles. This will treat incontinence, intimate discomfort and improvement of sexual health for men and women.
The treatment is designed to help:
Stress Incontinence
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© Lucia Foster-Found 2025 www.luciafosterfound.com
January, together with the many broken, or at least, mortally wounded New Years’ resolutions, littered her virtual rear-view mirror. There’d been the ‘fight-the-fat-in-afortnight-on-a-fad-diet’ resolution. It hadn’t worked. Then there was its sister, the ‘join a gym’ resolution. Sadly, the affordable, pre-festive ‘join now, get two months free’ gym deals that had flooded her inbox before Christmas, had jogged off. Full price membership had seemed expensive in the post devil-may-care-December landscape of January bills.
However, driving home from work she noticed that, to be fair, her suit trousers had relinquished their constrictor-like grip on her waistline. The mystery of the renewed comfort of her work wardrobe was simply solved; merely the cessation of a Christmas diet of chocolate tree decorations, Baileys in her morning coffee and pork products wrapped in pastry-slash-bacon. Although delicious and decadent, it was, regretfully, not sustainable. Especially once the January guilt and the nine-to-five job had kicked in. There’d been some exercise too. When the toddle across the sitting room to the tub of Celebrations, and back to the sofa, was no longer part of her daily ‘steps’, she’d needed a replacement activity. She couldn’t just sit around gazing into the empty tub and waiting for those ‘two months’ free’ emails to return.
So, in the meantime, there’d been the dog walking. Her habitual saunter through the woods whilst the dogs raced excitedly to and fro had needed to step up a gear. Or rather, drop down a gear - from a cruising fifth to a more urgent third. The dogs, excited by the new and apparent need to get somewhere
faster, raced more excitedly than ever. It was a win-win for all concerned.
But, as she drove home along the country road, something else in her actual rear-view mirror grabbed her attention. To stop around the blind corner and retrieve it would be a death sentence, so with a regretful sigh, she drove on.
“Lying in the road. So sad,” she announced as she wandered into the kitchen and dumped her handbag on the table. Himself jumped a little and furtively looked over his shoulder at her. “Who was lying in the road, looking sad?” he said, turning around, keeping one hand carefully behind his back.
“Do you think they had a row?” she said. “Who, the sad people in the road?” Himself was sporting a deep furrow between his brows. “What sad people?” It was her turn to frown.
Her phone beeped with a message; programmed with a maternal need to check each and every missive, she retrieved her phone. It was a Happy Valentine’s from their grown-up daughters, which reminded her that she needed to fetch a card she’d yet to sign, from the car.
With a breezy, “Won’t be a mo,” she trotted outside and paused to take in the fading vermilion shreds of a glorious sunset, thankful that the nights were getting out. The darkest, shortest, albeit most chocolatiest days of December were well past – and a cheerless January was but a bleak memory.
A few well-chosen words, a signature, several Xs and hearts later and her own Valentine’s card was ready to present to a (she thought) slightly shifty looking Himself, still lurking in a corner of the kitchen. Himself opened his card, thanked and embraced her with, it had to be
said, a mildly distracted air. “So, tell me about these sad people who were having a row in the road,” he insisted. The furrowed brow had returned.
She looked quickly around the room for a sign of a reciprocal card, maybe a box of chocolates, perhaps a bottle of fizz… Then she realised what wrong end of which stick he’d firmly grasped. She explained;
“Oh no.. Not people. I saw an abandoned bunch of red roses in the road. I’d have picked them up but it was just too dangerous. I imagined these people having an argument–over something trivial, or maybe something really serious – relationship-killing even. And her throwing those beautiful flowers out of the car window. It upset me.”
“Ah. I see.” He nodded, comprehension flooding his features. She sneaked another look around at the various worksurfaces and still couldn’t spot anything in a red envelope.. Himself was speaking again.
“If you’re looking for a card, there isn’t one. I decided to give my dyslexic outpourings a miss this year. Although, I feel that that my spelling of ‘solemate’ has a certain poetic truth, given your love of seafood.”
He went on. “And as for the poor people having a row and throwing the flowers out of the car? I propose an alternative and less unhappy scenario. Man buys flowers for his ‘solemate’. Man puts flowers on the roof of the car as he grapples with his keys. Man drives off.. Man returns to flower shop and buys replacement flowers for his true love. And here you are, in a language that’s impossible to miss-spell.”
And from behind his back, with a furrowbanishing smile, Himself produced a bunch of red roses..
Psychic Medium, Crystal readings, Chakra balancing, Rahanni / Reiki healing, Energy therapist / Holistic Healing / Oracle Card Reading
Based in Alresford
Contact Louise on: 07719 011854
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Pelvic Health & Bladder Weakness
Those of us who have issues down there know the impact our vagina can have on our quality of life.
But we should ALL feel good about our vaginas.
Ultra Femme 360 is the painless radio frequency treatment that promotes the body’s own natural collagen production to restore and tighten the vaginal area.
From puberty, childbirth, menopause, and all the fun stuff in between, our vaginas go through a lot, and we rarely give them the care they need.
Our vaginal area is just as prone to damage and ageing as the rest of our body. Distressing problems with vaginal laxity, stress incontinence or reduced tissue quality are all experienced by most women at some point in their life.
The Ultra Femme 360 treatment provides total vaginal rejuvenation in one quick and painless treatment that lasts just eight minutes*.
What is Ultra Femme 360?
Ultra Femme 360 is a non-surgical solution for restoring the internal and external vaginal area. As the applicator is guided in and around the vagina, the radio frequency activates our own body’s natural collagen and elastin production, which tightens the vaginal canal and surrounding skin. The low levels of heat from the treatment also encourages blood flow to the area, further boosting the effects.
Feel good…
Who can benefit from Ultra Femme 360?
This is a safe and gentle treatment that is suitable for most women. If you have experienced vaginal changes since childbirth or menopause or have functional issues including stress incontinence or reduced sexual enjoyment, Ultra Femme 360 can tighten, restore, and rejuvenate your vagina for increased confidence and personal wellbeing.
Does the treatment hurt?
We understand that this kind of treatment can feel daunting. However, we aim to make you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout the treatment, which is entirely painless and lasts only 8 minutes. There is no downtime, and you can return to your normal daily activities immediately afterwards. *Recommended one treatment per week for three weeks for the best results.
We are one of the first clinics in the country to offer this treatment and look forward to welcoming you at The Face & Skin Clinic.
Book your treatment today. We should all feel good about our vaginas.
After record attendance at its Christmas concert, raising £761 for the Disasters Emergency Committee, the Meon Voices community choir has started rehearsals for its Spring concert with a new choir leader, Emma Dean, who takes over from the highly respected and loved Solveig Harris.
Emma has been singing for as long as she can remember. The first performance she remembers was when she sang about a cat and a saucer of milk in an Eisteddfod at the age of eight!
She heard from fellow choir members at St Peter’s Church choir that Meon Voices was looking for a new leader and was very intrigued. “I
was delighted when I was then approached, and after a – very short –period thinking about it, I decided it was something I would love to do,” Emma says.
She joined the choir and participated keenly last term, saying, “Solveig has led Meon Voices over the last eight years and has taken it from strength to strength in that time. She has brought a fabulous variety of music to the choir which everyone has clearly enjoyed immensely. She will be much missed.
“Singing is for everyone and I hope to carry on Solveig’s work making the choir and music accessible to all. When we meet each week to sing together, we delight in our common enjoyment of it and shared sense of purpose. It’s a great, friendly choir to be in! If you have ever wondered what it is like, come along and have a go!”
You don’t need to audition, nor be able to read music, although it helps. The choir team can help you to decide what group best suits your voice –Soprano, Alto, Tenor or Bass. There is lots of support.
The Monday night practices have recommenced but it’s not too late to get involved. The sessions are from 7.30 – 9.30 p.m. at the United Free Church in Bishop’s Waltham, culminating in two concerts a year, Spring and Christmas.
If you’d like to save the date, the Meon Voices Spring Concert is Saturday April 12th 2025 at 7.30pm at St Peter’s Church Bishops Waltham. If you would like further information on joining the choir, please email Jane on janevose@icloud.com or contact Phil on: 01489 579078 or via email: coundleypj@yahoo.com
Offer
Free Home Delivery
For
• 15 grams flour
• 8 grams salt
• 2 grams ground black pepper
• 2 grams thyme (dried)
• 500 grams diced lamb (cut 1cm sq) *
• Olive or Rapeseed oil *
• 400mls Hill Farm Apple Juice *
• 120 mls water
• 40 mls cider vinegar *
• 4-5 bay leaves
• 1 stick of cinnamon
• 2 medium sized carrots peeled and cut into chunks *
• Stick of celery (optional) *
• 2 medium potatoes peeled and cut into chunks *
• 1 medium sized onion diced *
• 3 apples peeled cored and cut into chunks *
Gently fry the onion in a large saucepan until soft but not browned and then put to one side. Mix the flour, black pepper, thyme and salt together in a bowl. Coat the diced lamb with the seasoned flour and fry in small batches to seal.
When all the lamb is sealed and browned return the fried onions back to the saucepan. Add water, apple juice, cider vinegar, bay leaves and cinnamon and bring to the boil. Once boiled lower temperature to a simmer and cook for approximately 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
Add in potatoes, celery, carrots and apples bring to the boil again and then simmer until vegetables are cooked through. If the stew is looking dry you can add some additional water.
This recipe has quite a sharp flavour so for those who prefer a sweeter taste do not use cider vinegar and add an additional 40 mls of water.
Either serve with green vegetables or keep quite soupy and serve in a bowl with crusty bread to mop up the gravy!
Petersfield - Sun 2nd, Romsey - Sun 2nd, Alton - Sat 8th, Winchester - Sun 9th, Emsworth - Sat 15th, Southsea - Sun 16th, Ringwood - Sat 22nd, Winchester - Sun 23rd For more information visit: www.hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk
FROM THIS TO THIS IN ONE DAY
FROM THIS TO THIS IN ONE DAY
FROM THIS TO THIS IN ONE DAY
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Stained Glass Workshop
Head and Neck Sculpture
Wood Carving With Alex Jones
Stained Glass Workshop with Jo Munford on 18th Jan 2025. Learn the technique of cutting glass and the Tiffany copper foil technique and produce an attractive stained glass plaque to take home. £115 for Wessex Sculptor members. £125 for non-members.
With John Souter on 15th February 2025. A return of the much requested workshop with an opportunity to produce a bust in clay working with a model. £65 for Wessex Sculptor members, £85 for non-members.
"Release the beast” on 15th March 2025. Alex will help you see the potential in a piece of wood found by you to release an inner animal in the wood waiting to get out. £60 for Wessex Sculptor members, £80 for non-members.
Petersfield Climate Action Network's wonderfully successful Fruit Tree in Every Garden project, encouraging people across the district to plant a fruit tree in their garden, has returned for a fifth successive year - and the first round of orders is NOW open. Over the last four years PeCAN has distributed nearly 2,000 fruit trees for gardens across East Hampshire.
Types of trees available this year include apple, pear, plum, greengage, cherry, apricot and filbert (cobnut). There is a limited stock of each variety - so get in quick to secure your top choice! Each fruit tree costs just £12.50 and comes with a stake and instructions on how to plant. These trees usually cost between £25 - £35, but thanks to East Hampshire District Council (this project has received funding from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund) you can buy them at a heavily subsidised price.
On Saturday 22nd February you will be able to collect the fruit trees you have ordered from collection points in Alton, Liphook, Petersfield and Rowlands Castle. At Petersfield Community Garden you will also benefit from free expert advice, workshops on how to plant, train and prune your tree, and activities for the whole family – at a Festival of Trees.
Plastered Again With John Souter On 29th March 2025. A return of the very popular workshop with our tutor. Make a sculpture in plaster with an armature which can then be carved to further enhance the shape. £50 for Wessex Sculptor members, £70 for nonmembers.
Sculpting Thermalite Block with Will Davies On 12th April 2025. A return of Will Davies after his very successful WS in November. A good introduction to stone carving or to improve your stone carving skills. £55 for Wessex Sculptor members. £75 for non-members.
Workshops take place in Bramdean, 10.00 – 16.00. All materials included. Contact Anne Lain 07785 715 985 anne.lain627@gmail.com
The ones that didn’t get away! In search of a unique experience for your Valentine’s plans? Experience the Whales installation with your loved ones and enjoy special music, cocktails, tours and experiences. Did you know that a sperm whale’s heart weighs about the same as two human beings? Invite your loved one to celebrate all things love inside the majestic setting of Winchester Cathedral.
A relaxed date night for the senses which invites you to walk around the cathedral at your own leisure. See the historic interior of
You can select your preferred pick-up point when you place your order and PeCAN request that you please order a maximum of 5 fruit trees per household. Trees provide nesting places and materials, food sources and cover for wildlife - so by planting a tree in your garden you can have a positive impact on local populations and increase our collective resilience in the face of climate change.
To order your subsidised fruit trees (before Thursday 6th February or until stocks last), go to: petersfieldcan.org/projects/trees
Petersfield Climate Action Network (PeCAN) is an environmental charity, set up in 2020 by local residents. PeCAN’s aims are to reduce carbon emissions in Petersfield and the surrounding villages, mitigate the effects of climate change on the natural environment, and increase biodiversity, which they do by leading and supporting decarbonisation and nature projects in the community.
This project has received funding from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. www.gov.uk/government/ publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus
Winchester Cathedral in a new way, with three monumental sperm whales hanging in the Nave accompanied with blue toned lighting for the perfect under-the-sea feel. Hear moving shanties and songs of the sea sung by shanty crew High and Dry. Play! Unleash your inner child and play fun games hidden around the cathedral that are usually justfor-kids! Romance-themed tours will also be available to join on the night, at no extra cost, including our popular ‘Romantic scandals’! Each tour lasting 20 minutes. Simply look out for our ‘Guides’ on the night who are looking forward to sharing the cathedral’s stories with you. This event is suitable for ages 18+.
For more information and to book visit: https://www.winchestercathedral.org.uk/book-online/375201
Cycle path improvements, new toilets, a school extension, wildlife viewing platform and the restoration of a historic walled garden are among the community projects to benefit from a major funding boost from the South Downs National Park Authority.
To kick off 2025 the National Park is announcing 27 projects across Sussex and Hampshire that will receive a share of just over £1.9m. The funds have been raised through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which is administered by the National Park Authority and paid by developers as a means of supporting new community infrastructure. In addition to the £1.9m, 29 parish councils across the National Park are sharing more than £313,000 for the benefit of their local community.
In Hampshire, £75,000 will go towards access and toilet improvements at Petersfield Heath, as well as a further £30,000 to be spent on the installation of a Changing Places toilet at Queen Elizabeth Country Park. Meanwhile, £40,000 will go towards “Butser’s butterflies” with extra funding to improve the precious chalk grassland for the insects. Selborne School will benefit from £100,000 for an extension to help improve after-school facilities. On the popular Meon Valley Trail, access will be improved with the addition of a new ramp at Soberton, thanks to a cash injection of £75,000. Some £30,000 will go towards the restoration of a walled garden at Chawton House which has long associations with Jane Austen and her family.
In West Sussex, over £720,000 will go towards the second phase of Centurion Way, which is providing a new link for walkers and cyclists from Chichester into the heart of the National
Park at Cocking and linking up with the South Downs Way. Some £50,000 will go towards improving wetland and grazing habitats at RSPB Pulborough Brooks, while £20,000 has been allocated towards refurbishing Burpham Village Hall. At Northchapel, £20,000 will go towards installing a multi-use games area at the local sports club.
Vanessa Rowlands, Chair of the South Downs National Park Authority, said: “As we begin 2025 and enter the National Park’s 15th year, it’s wonderful to share this good news.
“There’s a great mix of projects across the length and breadth of the National Park, many that will enrich the quality of people’s lives and help improve access to this cherished landscape, as well as tackling the biodiversity and climate crises.
“The Community Infrastructure Levy is an important element of our role as a planning authority and we know it can make a real difference to local communities, encouraging them to prosper and benefitting future generations.”
The Authority has now opened the call for projects for the 2025/2026 round of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding. Find out more here: www.southdowns.gov.uk/communityinfrastructure-levy/revision-of-spending-cil/ applying-for-cil-funds-for-an-infrastructureproject/
CIL funding is designed to be spent on infrastructure to support growth within the National Park around the priorities of Nature Recovery, Climate Action and A National Park for All and the Authority welcomes potential bids that support these priorities.
Please note while funding is provided from the Community Infrastructure Levy, the schemes will primarily be delivered by partners and community groups and the CIL investment often only makes up a portion of the total cost of the project.
• Selbourne School – building extension to enable ‘wrap around care’. £100,000
• Winnall Moors Nature Reserve –replacement of existing boardwalks. £150,000
• Petersfield Health – access and toilet improvements. £75,000
• Meon Valley Trail – access ramp at Soberton. £75,000
• East Meon – byway upgrade. £50,000
• Boosting Butser’s Butterflies – restore and improve an area of priority habitat at Butser Hill Nature Reserve by re-establishing chalk grassland. £40,000
• Queen Elizabeth Country Park – installation of Changing Places Toilet and separate fully accessible shower and changing block. £30,000
• Chawton House – restoration of walled garden. £30,000
• Rowlands Castle – highway and open spaces improvements. £15,000
• Ballard Close, Twyford – wild outdoor education. £1,500
• Cheriton – highway and open spaces improvements. £20,000
• The Green Room School, Kingsley – multipurpose Pod helping to deliver therapeutic needs. £5,500
South Downs National Park North Street, Midhurst, West Sussex GU29 9DH
Tel: 01730 814810 www.southdowns.gov.uk
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At Town and Country, we take pride in ensuring every client receives the best customer service, from the informative and knowledgeable sales process through to the extensive after sales care.
Our boutique showroom showcases some of the finest kitchen and bathroom furniture available, with a strong emphasis on UK and European manufacturing. Bathroom manufacturers on display include Ambiance Bain, Kudos, Roper Rhodes, Tissino and Arte Form, with Porcelanosa and Ca’Pietra tiling throughout the showroom. Our kitchens are expertly crafted by Schuller, one of the largest German kitchen manufacturers, and Mackintosh, their products are made exclusively in Britain. Both have an extensive and inspiring collection ranging from the contemporary to the more traditional.
Please contact us regarding our complimentary design and quotation service, we look forward to hearing from you.
Visit Town & Country
8 The High Street, Botley, Southampton, Hampshire, SO3O 2EA
Telephone: 01489 536187
Email: sales@town-and-country.co.uk www.town-and-country.co.uk
Allen Gallery
Jane Austen 2025
Film - Emma - Sunday 19th January 2.30pm (film starts at 2.45pm). We welcome back film screenings to the Allen Gallery with an afternoon showing of Emma (2020) as part of the Jane Austen Birthday Ball Weekend.
This winter warmer will start off a special year marking the 250th anniversary of Jane's birth. Refreshments will be available from the café. The film will be followed by a special Regency-themed Evensong at 6pm at St Lawrence Church, a short walk from the Gallery. Tickets £7 each, available in person from the Gallery.
Clay Make & Take - A family pottery session. Tuesday 18th February, 11 am - 12pm. Our popular clay workshops give the whole family a chance to enjoy an hour of making a small pot or other creation. Please bring an apron or old clothes. We kindly ask parents or guardians to remain on site, or they can join in the activity. £6 per person.
This year, the Countess of Brecknock Hospice (COBH) celebrates 35 years of compassionate care in our community. To mark this special milestone, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of the Moments that Matter Art Competition, inspired by the special and meaningful moments that define our lives.
This competition invites participants to reflect on and creatively express the theme
Weaving Workshop - Wednesday 19th February, 11am - 12pm approx.
An introduction to the art of Backstrap Weaving - a traditional, loom-free process where you will learn how to construct a beautiful wall-hanging or table runner. Led by Karen Parkin of the Hampshire Weavers Guild. £15 each, or £12 unwaged/children aged 8+. Please book on the Allen Gallery website.
Friends of the Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery Monthly Talk
The History of the Basingstoke Canal. A talk by Roger Cansdale of the Basingstoke Canal Society. Thursday February 13th, 7.30pm. FREE, donations welcomed.
of “Moments that Matter” - moments cherished by individuals living with terminal illnesses or those who have experienced the death of a loved one. Through this initiative, we aim to engage our community in celebrating the hospice’s role in creating these vital moments and the importance of its presence in our lives.
Key dates:
• Competition launches: Monday 3 February 2025
• Closing date for entries: Friday 27 June 2025
• Exhibition open to public: From Saturday 20 September 2025
• Awards: Countess of Brecknock Award (announced Monday 4 August) and People’s Choice Award (announced Monday 6 October).
The competition is open to everyone aged seven and above, from amateur artists to professionals. Entries can include paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, and more. Winners across various age categories will
Curtis Museum
Museum by Torchlight - Tuesday 18th February, 5.30pm - 7.30pm. Our everpopular torchlight tour of the Museum. £4 per child. Children must be accompanied by an adult - adults are free. Bring your favourite torch, or use one of ours.
Trails
8th February - 2nd March. See if you can spot all the toy dinosaurs (younger children). Or complete the Natural History quiz (older children). Pick up a sticker if you win.
Additional events will be held at the Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery throughout February for more information visit the website.
Opening Times
Tuesday to Sunday - 10am to 4.30pm
Curtis Museum - High Street, Alton, GU34 1BA
Allen Gallery - 10-12, Church Street, Alton GU34 2BW hampshireculture.org.uk/curtis-museum www.hampshireculture.org.uk/allen-gallery
receive prizes, with the top entry in each category awarded £250.
The competition will culminate in an exhibition of the winning entries held at the hospice. The exhibition will open with a special VIP event on the 35th anniversary itself, Friday 19 September 2025. Let’s celebrate life’s most meaningful moments together. Visit www.cobh.org. uk/news for entry details and submission guidelines. Your creativity could inspire others and help us highlight the importance of hospice care in Andover and beyond.
This project has received funding from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. www.gov.uk/government/ publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fundprospectus
The Countess of Brecknock House, Charlton Road, War Memorial Community Hospital, Andover, SP10 3LB Tel: 01264 835288 www.cobh.org.uk
Established 1878
Friendly, professional advice on all areas of family law in the centre of Bishop's Waltham. Our friendly family team will do everything possible to guide you through the process and securing the right outcome for you and your family, no matter the situation.
Friendly, professional advice on all areas of family law in the centre of Bishops Waltham
Our friendly family team will do everything possible to guide you through the process and securing the right outcome for you and your family, no matter the situation.
Contact Serhan Handani at sh@bramsdonandchilds.com
Contact Serhan Handani at sh@bramsdonandchilds.com
Our Bishop's Waltham office has moved to: St.George's Square, Bishop's Waltham, Hampshire, SO32 1GJ Tel: 01489 888240
Southsea Office 141 Elm Grove, Southsea, Hampshire PO5 1HR Tel: 02392 821251
Fair Oak Office Unit 10, Vicarage Farm Business Park, Winchester Road, Fair Oak, So50 7HD Tel: 02382 514300
www.bramsdonandchilds.com
