Meon valley 30 for web by Mark Tubb

Meon Valley

FORUM MARCH 2018 • ISSUE 30 • WWW.FORUMPUBLICATIONS.CO.UK • REACHING 18,750 READERS * BISHOP'S WALTHAM LANGRISH STROUD

BOTLEY

LOWER UPHAM

SWANMORE

CLANFIELD MEONSTOKE

SWANWICK

CORHAMPTON NEWTOWN

TITCHFIELD

UPHAM

CURDRIDGE

PETERSFIELD

DROXFORD SHEDFIELD

WALTHAM CHASE

DURLEY SOBERTON

WARNFORD

EAST MEON

EXTON

SOBERTON HEATH

WEST MEON

WICKHAM

HAMBLEDON SOUTHWICK WORLD'S END 1

whiteandguard.com

W ou

‘30 Bo

lik

To in u d ay

t -A e va il

ilit

ice

clu

ite eck d

siv

’

We are now offering our popular ‘Property Price Check’ One of the Partners will come and assess the value of your home at a time that suits you, with no fee or obligation, giving you clear insight into the price and market conditions. If you are considering a move anytime in 2018, take advantage of this exclusive FREE offer and we will equip you with all the information you need to be one step ahead of the competition.

Ring us today to book your 30 minute appointment.

Hedge End 01489 779030 | Bishops Waltham 01489 893946

Editor - Mark Tubb Tel: 01962 735137 editor@forumpublications.co.uk Director of Advertising - Steve Walker Tel: 01962 735137 stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

WELCOME I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

OUR TEAM

Inside

Advertising Manager - Mandy Head Tel: 01962 735137 mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk Director of Marketing - Rob Harrison Tel: 01962 735137 rob@forummedianddesign.co.uk Design Manager - James Curtis Advertising & Creative Design james@forumpublications.co.uk Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS

Copy Writer - Gill Grant gill@forumpublications.co.uk Copy Writer - Claire Thurlow claire@forumpublications.co.uk

05 Community

Keep up-to-date with what is happening in your area

08, 20, 22, 30, 36, 38, 42, 48, 50, 52, 54 FORUM PUBLICATIONS LTD 11 BROAD STREET, ALRESFORD HAMPSHIRE, SO24 9AR TEL: 01962 735137

APRIL COPY DEADLINE MARCH 19th Printed on recycled paper The Meon 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 Meon 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 Meon Valley magazine content does not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or recommendations of its creators and any reliance upon its content is taken at the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sole risk. Adverts designed by Forum Publications remain the magazine's legal ownership. ÂŠ Forum Publications Ltd, 2017 * Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household

06 Garden

Make your garden dream come true. Or visit local beautiful country gardens

08 Leisure

Discover local events and days out in Hampshire

16 Professional

From photographers to solicitors - every professional service you need

18 Features

Claire Thurlow, Jane's Kitchen, Market Square, Iris Crowfoot, Hampshire People & Hampshire Mum

24, 28, 34, 40, 44

26 Food & Drink Eat out, stay in: food, drink and dining in Hampshire

30 Wellbeing

Looking after your health and yourself!

38 Home

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

award winning kitchen makeovers

After Makeover

Upto 50% cheaper than a new fitted kitchen Mrs Barnell approached Happy Kitchens with a challenge. The current layout and look of her kitchen was not working, and many other companies were put off by the fact the kitchen was on the first floor and in a town house just off Winchester High Street, so parking was an issue. Not for Happy Kitchens though, we were by far the best quote for the quality and came up with the best design, leading to the kitchen pictured above installed in less than 7 days. At Happy Kitchens, we offer a wide range of makeover services ranging from replacement worktops, kitchen doors, splashbacks, hinges and wirework to new appliances and much more. We also offer new kitchen design and installation services too.

Less time | less hassle | less cost T: 01489 339177 W: happykitchens.uk ∙ Change as much or as little as you'd like ∙ Free no obligation quotation ∙ We can even colour match your existing units

Meon Valley Forum readers save 20% during March

Houzz 2017 and 2018 customer service award

MARCH 3 MARCH

Barn Dance With caller Ian Nicholls and iFolk. At Jubilee Hall, Little Shore Lane, Bishop's Waltham. 7.30pm - 11pm.Tickets: £15 to include Ploughman's Supper. Licensed bar and raffle. Tickets available from The Anvil, Bank Street, Bishop's Waltham. Contact Heather Cox on bwtwinning@gmail.com or phone 01489 894252

4 MARCH Petersfield Farmers' Market Petersfield Farmers' Market occurs on the first Sunday of every month from 10:00-14:00 in The Square. It's free to attend and is a great place to buy lots of local Hampshire produce!

10 MARCH Murder at the School Can you solve the mystery murder at Durley School? Tickets: £7 which includes one drink. Bar and nibbles.Tickets on sale from the office and available in the playground Thursdays and Fridays from the DSA.

17 MARCH A Ceilidh in aid of charity A celidh in aid of the Mayor of Winchester's charities will take place from 7pm in Jubilee Hall, Bishop's Waltham.Tickets are £12 to include a ploughman's supper and are available from Bishop's Waltham Town Council or Winchester Guildhall.

17 MARCH Spring Dance Party with Salsa y Sol Celebrate this Spring Time with a Spring in your step with a Dance Party filled with all the Dancing Fun you could wish for: Salsa, West Coast Swing, Party Group Dances, Jive, Cha Cha, Rumba,Tango, Bachata, Merengue, Kizomba, Club Classics and more! Everyone welcome and no previous dancing experience required - we'll get everyone dancing! Licensed Bar open all night! Music with DJ Max.Tickets: £12. Looking forward to seeing you! From 7.30pm at the Winchester Discovery Centre SO23 8SB. www.salsaysol.co.uk

20 - 24 MARCH Curdridge Amateur Drama Group presents "Curtain up on Murder" After a fantastically successful ‘Snow White’ Panto, with sell-outs at virtually every one of the eight performances, audiences will be delighted with our Spring presentation “Curtain up on Murder”. A murder, mystery, comedy thriller

evening that will keep you guessing! Just who IS the murderer? With trap-doors, ghosts and plenty of tension don’t miss out on March 20th, 21st, 22nd,23rd and 24th from 7.45pm at the Reading Rooms, Curdridge. Our new on-line ticket scheme makes is so easy to book at www.curdridgedrama.co.uk (from 15th January)

7 & 12 APRIL Meon Voices Choir Spring Concert A wide selection of songs and music including a medley from ‘Les Miserables’. No charge for admission, refreshments and retiring collection in aid of Church Charities. 7th April - 7.30 p.m.at St.Peter’s Parish Church, St. Peter’s St, Bishop’s Waltham, 12th April 2.30 p.m. at United Free Church, Basingwell St, Bishop’s Waltham

22 - 24 MARCH Upham Players present: Three comedies by David Tristram Our next production is on Thursday 22nd, Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th March. at Upham Village Hall.We are doing three hilarious comedies written by David Tristram, of ‘Little Grimley’ fame: Coffee Break, Late Entry and Little Grimley Presents Strictly Sex Factor (on Ice).Tickets are £7 (adults) and £5 (children) from 01489 860377 or uphamplayers@gmail. com.There is some strong language, so this production is not suitable for young children. The performances start at 7.30 p.m., and there will be a licensed bar.

28 MARCH The Bishops Waltham Gardening Club presentation: Frank Kingdom Ward 'Last of the Great Plant Hunters' A presentation by Mary Holliday-Bishop Frank Kingdom Ward ‘Last of the Great Plant Hunters’ “From an early age he had been fired with a burning urge for botanical exploration.” Hear about his amazing life at;The Junior School Ridgemede 7.30pm (doors open 7.15pm). Raffle, Refreshments, Club News. Visitors (non-Members) £2: Members free. Plus; Members Spring Show Class 1; 5 Stems Daffodils/Narcissi Class 2: Pot of Bulbs (pot not to exceed 10” -25cm- diameter) Class 3; 5 Stems, any Spring Flowers (except Daffodils/Narcissi) Class 4; 3 Stems Flowering Shrub

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

What's On

APRIL

25 APRIL The Bishops Waltham Gardening Club illustrated talk: Shrubs 'the backbone of your garden' with Geoff Hawkins An illustrated talk with Geoff Hawkins, giving you some ideas of which shrubs you could use in your garden to give structure, shape and texture as well as colour through flowers, stems and foliage. Geoff Hawkins retired in January 2012 as head gardener from the private estate of Mill Court near Alton, Hampshire where I had worked since 1977. As a head gardener running a small estate of 30 acres this meant I worked in greenhouses, vegetable and fruit gardens, herbaceous and shrub borders as well as looking after the trees.This will be held at The Junior School Ridgemede at 7.30pm (doors open 7.15pm). Raffle, Refreshments, Club News.Visitors (nonMembers) £2, Members free.

27 APRIL Charity Race Night At Hedge End Social club from 7pm - 11pm Hosted by Lambourn Racing.Tickets £5 per person. Bring your own nibbles. Great night out with social club drink prices.Tickets can be bought via www.breastcancerhaven.org.uk/ Event/race-night. Or contact Sharon HillBoulton: 01329 559 303

MAY 26 MAY 30 MARCH Winchester Motorcycle Club Holding a motocross event at Whaddon Farm, Owslebury, nr Winchester, SO21 1JJ.With seven separate classes: MX1 Modern Solo, MX2 Modern Solo,VETS Modern Solo,Twinshock clubmans,Twinshock Over 50s, Evo, Super Evo. First race starts at 11am. For more details email: WinchesterMCC@hotmail.co.uk

Meon Valley Bee Keepers Association 39th Annual Auction of beekeeping equipment and bees Commencing at 1pm, with viewing from 11.30am, at Greatham Village Hall, Hampshire, GU33 6AD. Items for inclusion are now welcome and entries should be received by 12th May. For further details and a catalogue please contact David Thompson 01489 892642/07786 510594 or email divadthompson@hotmail.com

G A R DEN I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Garden

spores to germinate. In addition, compaction can result in waterlogging due to poor drainage and this also encourages moss growth.

HOW HAS YOUR LAWN COPED OVER THE WINTER MONTHS?

et’s take a look at common problems and what we can do now to improve things. Winter can be tough on a lawn. Low light levels and freezing temperatures stop grass growing. Waterlogging can cause grass plants to die and moss growth increases. Autumn leaf fall can kill patches of grass creating

bare areas.

I look at a lot of lawns and I meet a lot of people who are disappointed with their lawn and want to see some improvement. Many feel that there is no option other than lifting their existing lawn and starting again from scratch. However much can be achieved through lawn renovation which is generally far more cost effective and less intrusive than completely re-seeding or re-turfing your outside space. Spring is ideal for lawn improvements. You may be wondering what to look for in your lawn and what can be done to improve it. I group my assessments into three main areas.

Aeration of the lawn, either with a garden fork for smaller lawn areas or a mechanical aerator for a more effective result will reduce compaction. It’s hard work, but the benefits to your lawn are invaluable. Top-dressing will level out the surface of your lawn and help improve soil structure and drainage. Nutrition, weeds and pH All plants need the correct nutrition to live a healthy and disease free life. All too often I visit lawns that never receive any supplementary nutrition or perhaps get a general sprinkle of something from the garden centre once a year. The home-owner wonders why their lawn looks so poor. The grass is almost starving to death through malnutrition! Nutrition can be a complex subject. Getting the right balance of nutrients at the right time of year is essential to promote healthy growth. Too much food is almost as bad as no food, so if in doubt, do your research or speak to a professional.

Thatch Thatch is a layer of organic matter - typically dead moss, dead or dying grass, stems, roots and other plant life, between the surface of the soil and the green living grass leaves above. In some lawns this layer can be quite thick preventing water and nutrients penetrating through to the soil below. Excessive thatch causes the soil to dry out and grass to suffer. Some build-up of organic matter at soil level is a good thing as it protects the soil and growing lawn. However, too much thatch is a common lawn problem that needs to be dealt with appropriately. Scarification with a garden rake for smaller areas or a mechanical scarifer for larger lawns tears out the dead plant life and opens up the soil surface. It’s a tough job and your lawn will look a little battered for a short while afterwards, but the long-term improvements are essential if you want to enjoy a healthy luscious lawn in the future. Compaction, drainage and top-dressing Regular foot traffic over your lawn will compact the soil structure, resulting in fewer air gaps in the soil, restricting the flow of water and nutrients to roots. Compacted lawns dry out more quickly and support fewer beneficial insects and worms. They have lower counts of essential microbes required to break down dead plant life, resulting in a build-up of thatch. Symptoms include thin, stressed turf grasses more susceptible to disease and pests, allowing gaps in the turf for weed seeds and moss

Non-grass plants growing in your lawn are classed as weeds. Weeds grow at a different height to your lawn grass, are quick to flower and rapidly spread through seed distribution. The presence of weeds in your lawn will certainly impact on its appearance. Dealing with weeds is firstly about being able to identify what weed is present, understanding which pesticides are used to treat that type of weed and how much should be used to manage the weed but not damage the grass. pH is the measure of the acidity of any given compound. Ranging from 1 which is acidic to 14 which is alkaline. The issue being that a pH imbalance can ‘lock-up’ essential plant nutrients, making them unavailable to the growing lawn grasses and no amount of additional fertiliser is going to address the nutritional issues. When recommending a lawn nutrition treatment plan I always test pH levels and ensure any underlying pH issues are resolved before nutrition begins. If your lawn isn’t offering you as much satisfaction as it should then now is the time to think about addressing any underlying issues. As we approach the warmer, wetter spring days and beyond, grasses respond well to repair work. Speak with a lawn care professional who can make a full assessment of your lawn and offer guidance on what reparation works will benefit your lawn through the winter and heading into spring.You may be surprised by how cost effective this approach is, and how quickly your lawn responds to professional lawn care. Ian Kenyon owns Shrekfeet Lawn and Garden Services. He is always happy to offer friendly, professional advice and help 01489 339188, 07739 789483 www.shrekfeet.com

NEW CONSTRUCTION, BARN CONVERSIONS & OAK FRAMING REPAIRS OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE.

Family owned and run since 1973, built on great service and value for money

G A R DEN I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

OFFERING A COMPLETE SPECIALIST SERVICE IN

Please visit our website for all the latest news, information, second-hand machines for sale; and special offers in the showroom. Barn Conversions and Repairs Using Traditional Materials and Methods New Oak Framed Construction New Houses, Barns, Garden Rooms & Extensions Oak Framed Garages, Stabled and agricultural Buildings

Offering a full service from groundworks to a complete turn-key build Unit 5, Frith Farm, Frith Lane, Wickham, Hampshire, PO17 5AW Tel: 01329 835 551 | Mob: 07801 143 986 | Email: danny@hampshireoak.co.uk Visit our website at hampshireoak.co.uk

Laceys Farm, Bramdean Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0JT

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

Supply and planting large specimen trees and shrubs Espalier, pleached and instant impact hedges All trees and shrubs carefully selected Design, landscaping and ongoing maintenance Free site visit and consultation Bosque is a trading name of Just Limegrass Ltd. Harko: 07710 502798 Tom: 07855 656984 www.bosque international.co.uk

COMMU N IT Y LEISU R E ISSU E 3 0 | MARCH

Community BISHOP'S WALTHAM ROTARY NEWS

Recreation Ground. Wait for it: the theme is Witches and Wizards. Take a look at the back page for all the details of the event. There is no limit to what you can get dressed up in. After last year’s very full procession, featuring Space: the Final Frontier let your mind wander freely. We are expecting some really imaginative costumes: see how scary you can get! As last year there will be a serious Photo Competition: last entry date is end May; so, get snapping. As well as all the normal ‘fun of the fair’, this year we have a new event for you: The Fun Dog Show. So, get your pet dog spruced up and enter into a competition that could earn you a rosette. The competition will be divided between these classes: Puppies, Golden Oldies, Child handling, Junior handling, Prettiest bitch, Handsome dog, Waggiest tail, Best 6 legs, or the dog or bitch the judges would most like to take home. Entries (£2 all classes) on the day from 1.00PM, with judging from 1.30 PM. Get more details from Kerry.pitter@bishopswalthamrotary.org.uk

Leisure THE CURDRIDGE AMATEUR DRAMA

ne of the reasons why BW Rotary appears to be attracting new members is the variety of different activities that members are able to engage in. One minute we are raising money for the storm damage in the Caribbean, the next we are helping the Youth Club to clear their garden surround. February of 2018 has been no different: we have been searching for a local leadership candidate for Rotary’s international sponsorship programme; and we are in full planning mode for the annual Carnival. So first off the subject of leadership.

GROUP PRESENTS “CURTAIN UP ON MURDER”

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards

Improving our leadership capability makes sound business sense. Helping people at all levels to develop the right skills will ensure future organisations have the ability to adapt, innovate and evolve, and seize the growth opportunities that lie ahead. Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is an international leadership programme. Each year, thousands of young people ages 13– 30 are sponsored by Rotary Clubs to attend a district event. Rotary Clubs cover all expenses for the participants. The event will take the form of a seminar, camp, or workshop to discuss leadership skills and to learn those skills through practice. RYLA aims to provide an effective training experience for selected youth and potential leaders. Bishop’s Waltham Rotary Club regularly sponsors young people on to this programme. This year we would like to ensure that all local groups and individuals have the opportunity to participate. So, if you would like to put someone forward for the programme, and/or learn more about the programme, please contact John Natt at john.natt@ bishopswalthamrotary.org.uk Bishop’s Waltham Rotary Carnival and Village Show. This is the official announcement: the date is Saturday 9th June 2018. The place is the town High Street for the Procession, followed by Hoe Road 8

murder, mystery, comedy thriller evening that will keep you guessing! Just who IS the murderer? In a theatre at the end of the pier, an amateur drama group is rehearsing a ‘Murder Mystery’ as a storm rages overhead. By chance they discover that the doors are locked and they are trapped in the theatre for the night!!! A ghostly figure appears and the Assistant Stage Manager falls to her death through an open trap door. Is it an accident or is it murder?? As the body count rises, the tension mounts. There IS a murderer in their midst, but who can it be, and why? Come and join us for this highly engaging and entertaining thriller. With trap-doors, ghosts and plenty of tension don’t miss out on March 20th, 21st, 22nd,23rd and 24th (all 7.45p.m. start) at The Reading Rooms, Curdridge. Our new on-line ticket scheme makes is so easy to book at www.curdridgedrama.co.uk 07495 750840 and on Facebook. Want to keep up-to-date? Send your email address to contact@ curdridgedrama.co.uk

FREE first treatment for plans booked this month

Call 01489 339188

LEISU R E I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Leisure TITCHFIELD FESTIVAL THEATRE LAUNCHES ITS FIRST EVER FULL YEAR BROCHURE

100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. This year certainly promises to be 12 months of superb entertainment. In addition, the theatre plays host to regular film nights and a monthly Open Mic Night, making Titchfield an important arts venue for the local community. Kevin Fraser, Artistic Director of Titchfield Festival Theatre is proud of the company’s achievements and plans for the coming year. “We’re delighted to publish our first full year brochure which is packed with a sheer delight of goodies for the months to come! We produce more shows than any other theatre in the United Kingdom; a tribute to the dedication of our team of directors, actors and other volunteers who have made this company a local force to be reckoned with. We have many more exciting plans to announce later this year and look forward to meeting old friends and new faces to our theatres during 2018.” For more information, please go to http:// titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com or contact our Box Office on 01329 556156. Complimentary tickets are available for press reviews, contact LCM for more information.

his month Britain’s most prolific amateur theatre company, Titchfield Festival Theatre is delighted to announce its most ambitious programme yet: the publication of its first ever full year brochure for 2018. Last year saw significant audience growth for the Hampshire company, with 30% more people visiting the venue compared to 2016. 2017 finished on a high, with several sell-out performances for its’ popular pantomime Hansel & Gretel following a highly successful 12 months which included productions of Spamalot, Romeo & Juliet, Jerusalem and The Sneeze.

SOBERTON PLAYERS PRESENT 'ALLO 'ALLO - THURSDAY 22 - SATURDAY 24 MARCH

The exciting new colour brochure provides details of the full list of 27 productions including plays, which will be well-known to all, together with original pieces of work written by members of the company specifically for Titchfield Festival Theatre. Performances are held in three separate auditoriums: the main Oak Theatre (seating 200 people) plus the smaller Acorn Studio (100 seats). And the historic Great Barn hosts every summer an annual Shakespearian festival. January 2018 has already started successfully with the performances of Murder in the Village Hall, a play written by Emma Bevan and Constellations, first staged in 2012 at the Royal Court Theatre in London. This play has achieved many accolades including an Evening Standard Award and a Tony nomination, and has also been performed in both the West End and Broadway. The play centres on the relationship between Marianne and Roland; when love blossoms between the unlikely pair, a theoretical physicist and a bee keeper, the principal idea of parallel universes is explored as different variations of the relationship are played out. The play ends tomorrow (27th January). There is certainly something for everyone in this year’s programme. Drama, comedy, musicals, thrillers; productions which will make you want to get on your feet and dance (Hairspray, 12-22 September); the 1920’s romantic thriller The Great Gatsby, by F Scott Fitzgerald; a military comedy with a bitter-sweet ending in Black Adder Goes Forth; as well as more contemporary productions such as Ding, Ding, Ding, a boxing themed play about England’s latest sporting hope Billy the ‘KID’. The 2018 Shakespeare Festival in the Great Barn will see performances of many of the Bard’s most famous writing: these include the political thriller Julius Caesar, the romantic story of Antony and Cleopatra and a special production of Much Ado About Nothing to commemorate the 10

oberton Players present ‘Allo ‘Allo at Soberton Village Hall SO32 3PF on Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd March at 7.30pm. Tickets £8 adults, £4 school-age children. On Saturday 24th March the performance will start at 7pm and include a two course meal. All profits from this Charity Dinner will be donated to The Rowans Hospice. Bring your own booze. Prize for best fancy dress (which is optional). Tickets are £22. To reserve tickets email tickets@ sobertonplayers.co.uk or ring the Box Office on 01489 878724

Est. 45 years

Titchfield

Every garden tells a story

Every Garden Tells a StoryCentre Garden Design

16 Show Gardens • Design Studio • Coffee Courtyard Garden Design • Award Winning Designers • Garden Maintenance Planting Plans • Border Revamp • Garden Lighting • Water Features OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK For over 45 years we have specialised in the high quality Design, Build & Maintenance of gardens

135 Southampton Rd PO14 4PR • hambrooks.co.uk • 01489 572285

LEISU R E I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Leisure

SECOND WIND RUNNING: QUEEN ELIZABETH SPRING MARATHON & HALF

to top-up at the water stations, especially on the marathon. At the finish, you will receive the bespoke QE Spring Marathon or Half medal.

Prizes in both races

Trophies are awarded to 1st 2nd and 3rd Female and Male. Age group awards to first V40,V50 and V60 Female and Male. Team prize for first team/club to have three people finish. You are welcome to take your time if you wish, but please be finished by 4:30PM (that's 7 hours!).

SUNDAY 25 MARCH

Times

Marathon at 09:30, Half at 10:30 For more information please visit www.secondwindrunning.co.uk/p/qe-spring

ST PATRICK'S RACEDAY AT FONTWELL SATURDAY 17 MARCH

Summary

Run entirely on a half-marathon course within the country park (and the adjacent, aptly named "Head Down" plantation) this is a trail run along well kept trails that even after the long winter should be nicely runnable. There are some hilly challenges that will take you on journey of over 500 metres of elevation gain over that half-marathon loop. Once away from the busy front part of the country park, you will find yourself in the quiet peaceful forest, often with glimpses of wildlife. Later, as you are on the last high point before you drop down to the finish area, there are long views through the clearings to the Solent and Isle of Wight. There are expected to be around 200 entrants in each race, so there will be plenty of people around without it being busy.

Course

Both routes run on the same course, with the marathon being two loops. The route is fully marked with signs and frequent repeater tape and multiple water/ feed stations along the way every 4 miles or so. Mostly this is offroad, with short stretch of tarmac between the country park and "Head Down". Please be aware that the quiet country lane roads are not closed to traffic. The route has no particularly technical challenges. The first climb at around Â˝ mile is short and steep, and often walked by those saving their energy for later. Given the time of year, there will likely be some slippery stretches from time to time, but none too long or particularly steep. The entire route should be on runnable terrain, without any stiles or gates to climb over. Take sufficient warm and waterproof clothing as the weather dictates. Footwear is advised to be trail shoes with medium tread - not suitable for running spikes.You may wish to carry your own water containers 12

ink a Guinness and enjoy the craic on St. Patrick's day at Fontwell Park. Get close to the action with competitive racing and plenty of Irish fun! There's 7 exciting races, live Irish music and all the action from the final day of the RBS 6 nations in the sell out Beer & Rugby tent! If you're search of something extra special look no further than our Premier Lounge restaurant. The restaurant is located on the first floor of the Premier Grandstand with access to a superb trackside viewing balcony with panoramic views of the Sussex Racecourse. Across our various racedays you will experience a variety of service styles which vary from gourmet buffets to a set three-course meal. Package includes Premier admission ticket, a 3-course meal or gourmet buffet, reserved table for the day, access to an exclusive viewing balcony, raceday programme, table bar service, and Tote betting facilities.

Admission enclosures

Fontwell Park has 2 enclosures. There's the Grandstand and Paddock enclosure which grants you access to 3 grandstands, the parade ring, winning circle and a number of bars and food outlets. Then there's the Premier enclosure which includes all of the above PLUS access to the ground floor of the Premier Grandstand. In here, you'll find a large indoor bar and premier cafĂŠ as well as seated viewing overlooking the Winning Post.

Fixture Details

Gates Open: 11.40am First Race: 1.40pm Last Race: 5.10pm For more information and tickets please go to www.fontwellpark.co.uk/whats-on/st-pats-raceday

G A R DEN I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

EN AS D O O N F SA LE

Large Show Site at Silversprings Garden Centre, Fontley Rd, Fareham

NEW BUILDINGS ARRIVING ALL EX-DISPLAY MUST GO - 25% OFF

LEISU R E I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Leisure

This event features 65, 50 & 40km course options and takes place on 8th April 2018

Event Times

Registration Opens: 8am First Ride Start: 8:30am (9:00am 40km) Last Ride Start: 9:30am (10:00am 40km) Event Centre Closes: 4pm

CX SPORTIVE: SOUTH DOWNS BUTSER HILL GRAVEL CROSS EVENT

What is CX? If you haven’t heard of CX as a style of riding before, we’ll start with a little background. CX as a term is a traditional shorthand for cyclocross, a fast and action packed short course, off road race format that has been around for a long time. It’s huge in northern Europe and gaining popularity here. And as interest in the sport grows, so is interest in the style of bike; fast, versatile machines that you can ride (almost) anywhere, on (almost) any surface. And CX as a term is moving beyond just racing, to represent a much broader and more all encompassing style of riding. CX, put simply is where the lines between road and mountain biking blur. That may not sound revolutionary, but when you try it, there’s a lightbulb moment. The penny drops and you wonder why road and dirt were ever considered to belong to different disciplines (or require different bikes). So, CX is about riding whatever is in front of you. CX reclaims those tyre shredding, gravel strewn pot-holed back lanes that eat road bikes for breakfast. CX takes the local tracks and trails that feel a little tame on your mountain bike, and turns them into something to savour. To sum it up, CX is the everyday joy of riding a bike, turned up to eleven.

What is a CX Sportive?

CX Sportives are the fantastic new mixed surface events that are combining the thrills of on and off-road riding into one awesome experience! Sportives have been around for a while now, and have attracted huge following. CX Sportive takes that tried and trusted format to give you a fully supported, exciting and entertaining event with top class organisation of our experienced team.

The Event

Butser Hill; the hill that gives the event it’s name, and one of the most flat-out, fun descents in the country! If ever a ride was going to deliver you to the finish line with a big, stupid grin on your face, it’s this one! From it’s base at the foot of the mighty Butser Hill, right on the South Downs Way, the Kinesis South Downs Gravelcross is a fantastic ride! Chopping and changing between winding tarmac lanes, tracks and bridleways, and featuring sections of the iconic South Downs Way, it’s the ideal early spring outing. The course variety will keep you on your toes, the backdrop will keep you inspired, and we will keep you fuelled and on track with the full package of organisation and support that you can rely on at CX Sportive events! 14

For more information please visit: www.cxsportive.com/events/south-downsgravelcross-cx/

MEON VOICES CHOIR NEWS

eon voices choir has now fixed the dates for our Spring concerts in April in Bishop’s Waltham. These are Saturday 7th April at St.Peter’s Church ,St. Peter’s Street, concert begins at 7.30 p.m. ; and Thursday 12th April at United Free Church, Basingwell Street , concert begins at 2.30 p.m. The programme is still being finalised, but we will be singing, among other items, a Medley of songs from “Les Miserables”, “Adiemus” by Karl Jenkins – the music from the Delta Airlines commercial, and “ “In My Life” by Lennon and McCartney. We are looking forward to performing this varied programme and look forward to seeing a good audience there. While we are always open to new singers joining us, we particularly need more Sopranos. While the choir has grown considerably in the past couple of years we have lost some sopranos and at the same time a good number of other voices have joined so the balance needs to be restored. Anyone interested in joining us or just wants to see what we do is very welcome to come along any Monday evening to our practice night at The United Free Church, Basingwell St, Bishop’s Waltham 7.30 – 9.30 p.m. We look forward to seeing you. Further information about the choir or the concerts can be obtained from Phil Coundley, 01489 579078 email coundleypj@yahoo.com or Maureen Buckland 01489 890335, email alan@agbuckland.plus.com.

Come & Visit Our Yard & Display Area

GAZEBOS & ACCESSORIES

Live the Dream with a Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services

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.

reality - it just couldn’t be easier. Equestrian Fencing Services offer an extensive range of

Equestrian Fencing Services All gazebos from Equestrian Fencing Services are madeoffer an extensive range of

All gazebos from Equestrian Fencing Services are made

Gazebos from carefully selected timber from well managed

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

materials. They are designed to provide a shower proof

sustainable forests, to suit every size and style of garden.

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

environment. It is important to appreciate that in severe

JOINERY WORKSHOP SPECIALISING IN BESPOKE HARDWOOD & SOFTWOOD DRIVEWAY ENTRANCE GATES weather conditions there may be a chance of water

weather conditions there may be a chance of water

Specifically designed accessories to fit our range of

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

ingress. We recommend with the thatched range that you

Gazebos are available to further enhance your comfort

Gazebos areprotection. available to further enhance your comfort invest in a roof liner to improve water

invest in a roof liner to improve water protection.

and privacy. Available in a choice of terracotta or green.

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

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

balustrade infill panels. Delivery and assembly on to level

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

back page of this brochure.

pre-prepared base is also included in the price.

With all the benefits of a thatched or timber roofed Gazebo

from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true!

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

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

from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true!

With all the benefits of a thatched or timber roofed Gazebo

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.

invest in a roof liner to improve water protection.

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

ingress. We recommend with the thatched range that you

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

Specifically designed accessories to fit our range of

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

sustainable forests, to suit every size and style of garden.

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

Gazebos from carefully selected timber from well managed

All gazebos from Equestrian Fencing Services are made

Equestrian Fencing Services offer an extensive range of All gazebos from Equestrian Fencing Services are made

Equestrian Fencing Services offer an extensive range of

PRESSURE TREATED STANDARD SHEDS, 6X4,7X5,8X6,10X8 READY FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY FROM £400 + VAT

Your Local Friendly Stockist of High Quality Fencing, Landscaping and Structural Building Timber reality - it just couldn’t be easier.

reality - it just couldn’t be easier.

party.turn A thatched timber roofed party. A thatched or timber roofed Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services will yourordreams intoGazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services will turn your dreams into Whether of 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 that never you to bedream forgotten al-fresco

C A L L U S N OW O N : 0 1 3 2 9 8 3 5 1 0 0

email: info@equestrianfencing.com Live the Dream with a Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services

GAZEBOS & ACCESSORIES

www.equestrianfencing.com

Live the Dream with a Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services

H I G H R I D G E F A R M , H O S P I T A L RO A D, S H I R R E L L H E A T H , S O U T H A M P T O N , S O 3 2 2 J R

GAZEBOS & ACCESSORIES Come & Visit Our Yard & Display Area

Come & Visit Our Yard & Display Area

LEISU R E G A R DEN P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 30 | MARCH

Leisure

MOTHERS’ DAY: AFTERNOON TEA IN THE ROUNDHOUSE AT BUTSER

PETERSFIELD MUSICAL FESTIVAL FRIDAY 9 - SATURDAY 17 MARCH

tep back in time at Butser Ancient Farm for a magical afternoon this Mothers’ Day.Visit our prehistoric houses and enjoy the warmth of the crackling fire, while the surrounding landscape begins to wake up for spring.

etersfield Musical Festival is a registered charity, run for the benefit of the community, not for profit. For more than a century, the Festival has promoted music-making in and around Petersfield, bringing together local singers and instrumentalists of all ages to share the platform with visiting musicians of national and international standing. The Festival takes place at the Petersfield Festival Hall, built for the purpose and officially opened in 1935.

Decorate a keyring for your loved one under the wooden beams of our beautiful Saxon house, and visit the Roman villa where you are welcome to dress in costume. Why not take a special photo in your Roman dress, reclining in luxury on the guest bed? At 3pm you can then take a seat in our Iron Age roundhouse, where you will be served a delicious afternoon tea (suitable for vegetarians) with tea, coffee, sandwiches, scones and cake. Join us for this unique afternoon in prehistoric Britain on Sunday 11 March from 2pm - 4pm at just £12.50 per head. Spaces are limited and non-refundable. Please email ahead with any food allergies at admin@butserancientfarm. co.uk. For more information and booking please visit www. butserancientfarm.co.uk/mothers-day-afternoon-tearoundhouse/

Petersfield Musical Festival is more than a hundred years old and has developed into the town’s premier musical event. True to the vision of its founders, the heart of the Festival is two choral concerts, where choirs from the area combine to perform the great works of the choral repertoire. Orchestral music is represented by the thriving 60-strong Petersfield Orchestra, whilst we welcome celebrity performers on two evenings in the Petersfield Festival Hall. The Festival also promotes the singers, players and audiences of the future in its two popular Youth Concerts, which involve hundreds of junior and senior school pupils from local schools. Through the Michael Hurd Memorial Fund, the Festival provides sponsorship funds to promote the development of individual young performers and composers in the Petersfield area.

Programme Friday 9th March - Rock Choir Saturday 10 March - Bach St John Passion Sunday 11 March - Family Concert Monday 12 & Wednesday 14 March - Youth Concerts Tuesday 13 March - Lunchtime Lecture Recital, Angela Zanders Wednesday 14 March - Timothy Ravalde, Organ Recital Thursday 15 March - The Petersfield Orchestra Friday 16 March - Cabaret Night / Kit & McConnel Saturday 17 March - Britten Rejoice in the Lamb / Mozart Requiem All concerts take place at Petersfield Festival Hall except for the recitals in St Peter's Church on Tuesday lunchtime and Wednesday evening. For more information and to buy tickets please visit www.petersfieldmusicalfestival.org.uk 16

No r t h Mo to r Company Holden Farm, Cheriton, Alresford, Hants, SO24 ONX

Independent Garage and MOT Testing Centre Established in1999 - All makes of car serviced and repaired - Saab approved repairer and Subaru specialist Free collection, delivery and courtesy car (when available) Competitively priced tyres - Batteries - Vehicle Diagnostics - Exhausts

Telephone Gary or Andy on 01962 771331 or 771881 www.northmotor.co.uk info@northmotor.co.uk

Garden Ornaments • Home & Giftware • Pots & Planters Garden Shop • Wildlife Care • Silk Flowers • Furniture • Plants Excellent range of perennials, climbers, shrubs, trees, fruit and her plants, together with seasonal plants and now specimen plants available

OPEN ALL EASTER WEEKEND INCLUDING BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY

G A R DEN P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 3 0 | MARCH

Mud Island Garden Centre

Opening Hours: 9am - 5pm

Tel: 01329 834407 www.mudislandnurseries.co.uk SOUTHWICK ROAD, WICKHAM, HAMPSHIRE PO17 6JF

N FINE ART AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS

FINE ART, ANTIQUES, INTERIORS & COLLECTABLES AUCTION Tuesday 27th & Wednesday 28th March Thursday 22nd - 12noon - 5pm Friday 23rd - 10am - 5pm Saturday 24th - 10am - 2pm Monday 26th - 10am - 5pm Morning of sale 8.30am

Now covering the Meon Valley Sales, Lettings and Property Management

Illustrated catalogues available to view online at www.the-saleroom.com www.andrewsmithandson.com Enquiries: t:01962 735988 e:auctions@andrewsmithandson.com THE AUCTION ROOMS, MANOR FARM, ITCHEN STOKE, ALRESFORD SO24 0QT

01962 736333 11 Broad Street, Alresford | www.hellards.co.uk

F EAT U R E I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Rabbits!

BY CLAIRE THURLOW

s February slides into March, Spring is finally on the way.The dawn chorus is gathering strength, leaves are budding and wildlife is perking up. I’ve seen rabbits in abundance, not just in fields and open grassland, but on the edges of towns. Beside the dual carriageway a trio of rabbits lollops under cover of a bramble thicket, and in the middle of a roundabout, another pair relaxes on the turf. I’ve seen them from the train on scrubby embankments and on tufty sand-dunes at the coast. Ironically, considering I live in the country, I have yet to see one in the garden. Many gardeners tell me that I’m lucky not to be troubled by these voracious herbivores.They can decimate a veg patch or flower bed overnight, and when everything else is below the snow line, they will gnaw on young trees and shrubs. I’m sure I could cope with a couple of them, but, of course, you never get a couple, because they breed like, well, rabbits. Breeding starts in January and continues all summer, with the female able to produce four or more young every five weeks. Despite foxes, buzzards and stoats, to name a few rabbit-loving predators, plus the danger of busy roads, bunnies are everywhere.Yet only 25% of new-born rabbits survive their first year. We used to blame the Normans for shipping them over for food and fur, but in 2005 archaeologists dug up 2000-year-old rabbit remains in Norfolk. Apologies to the Normans, it seems the Romans were to blame.They considered rabbits to be something of a delicacy and reared them in walled enclosures, or warrens. Inevitably, a few enterprising rabbits escaped and settled happily into a feral existence.The rest is history. Rabbits are ‘crepuscular’, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk, but the ones I saw frolicking by the roadside were out

and about in the middle of the day.Their enviably soft coats keep them warm, but need to be kept clean and dry if they’re to be efficient. After days of heavy rain, the burrows can get wet, muddy, or even flooded out, and the rabbits need some serious grooming to keep their coats in good shape. Drying out and cleaning up in the sunshine is a necessity for a healthy rabbit, even if a roundabout is a perilous place to do it.The sight of a rabbit, twitching its nose and washing its face with its paws is endearing. No wonder Beatrix Potter was inspired to create the classic character, Peter Rabbit. According to superstition these animals bring luck. Some people might wish you ‘a pinch and a punch’ on the first of the month, but others say ‘rabbits’ or ‘white rabbits’, and I’m told that it was the first thing superstitious World War Two bomber crew said in the morning. Ancient civilisations saw shapes of rabbits on the face of the moon and associated them with fertility, magic and shape-shifting witches. Based on the damage they can cause to crops, trees and gardens, rabbits are a pest.Yet many creatures depend on them for survival – and not just predators. In the Seventies, when rabbit populations had been decimated by myxomatosis, chalk downlands became swamped with long grasses which had previously been grazed to short turf by the rabbits. Unable to live in this environment, numbers of butterflies like the Adonis Blue and the silver spotted skipper fell to drastically low levels.Thankfully, with the recovery of the rabbits and their management of the grassland, the butterflies have returned. And that’s definitely lucky for us.

Autosphere UK AUTOMOTIVE

ELECTRONICS

PROFESSIONAL ECU REMAPPING POWERED BY QUANTUM TUNING

We offer a professional mobile service for all vehicles, with a 30 day full money back guarantee. Increase BHP / Torque by up to 35% Fuel economy up to 20% Enter your vehicle registration on our website and see how we can help you!

southampton.quantumtuning.co.uk P R OV I D I N G A M O B I L E S E R V I C E F O R E C U R E M A P P I N G • D P F R E M O VA L E G R R E M O VA L • S P E E D L I M I T E R R E M O VA L ENGINE MANAGEMENT LIGHT DELETE MILEAGE CORRECTION

T: 07920 452701

info@autosphereuk.com www.autosphereuk.com BASED IN SHEDFIELD

& Partners Independent Family NigelFUNERAL Chamberlain & Partners DIRECTORS

Independent Family Nigel Chamberlain serving the Meon Valley Nigel Chamberlain & Partners FUNERAL

since 1892 & Partners DIRECTORS Independent Family The Gate House, Road Independent Family serving FUNERAL the MeonVictoria Valley Independent Family since 1892 BISHOPS WALTHAM Funeral Directors DIRECTORS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS Bob Metcalf MBE (01489) 892640 Bob Metcalf MBE

The Gate House, Road serving theVictoria Meon Valley Serving the Meon Valley since 1892 (01489) 892640 BISHOPS since WALTHAM 1892

P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 3 0 | MAR CH

Nigel Chamberlain

The Gate House, Victoria Road

serving the Meon Valley

Personal 24WALTHAM hour service BISHOPS Bob Metcalf MBEService Personal 24 Hour since 1892 (01489) 892640 Personal 24 Hour Service Tel: 01489 892640 www.chamberlainfunerals.co.uk www.chamberlainfunerals.co.uk The Gate House, Victoria Road www.chamberlainfunerals.co.uk Bob Metcalf MBE The Gate House, Victoria Road, Bishops Waltham

Personal 24 WALTHAM Hour Service BISHOPS www.chamberlainfunerals.co.uk

(01489) 892640 Bob Metcalf Part Richard Steel & Partners Partof of Richard Steel & MBE Partners The Family Owned Funeral Directors The family owned funeral directors Part of Richard Steel & Partners Personal 24 Hour Service Serving Hampshire since 18601860 serving Hampshire since

The Family Funeral Directors Part ofOwned Richard Steel & Partners

www.chamberlainfunerals.co.uk Serving Hampshire since 1860 The Family Owned Funeral Directors Serving Hampshire since 1860

We’ve come home to the Meon Valley... Part of Richard Steel & Partners The Family Owned Funeral Directors Serving Hampshire since 1860

We’re a new team in Bishop’s Waltham but we already loved living here. If like us, you love life in the Meon Valley and are thinking of making your next move, please talk to our friendly team at no. 7 Cross Street. Most of us live in and around Bishop’s Waltham and offer great enthusiasm and knowledge of this beautiful area. With six offices across the Meon Valley, Pearsons offers unrivalled coverage for marketing properties in this area. Talk to us today about yours.

Contact us for a free, no-obligation sales or lettings valuation. Sales & Lettings: 01489 660860 bishopswaltham@pearsons.com

Offices throughout Hampshire | pearsons.com

S E RVIC E | M ARKE TI NG | E X PE RI E NC E

COMMU N IT Y P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 30 | MARCH

Community Professional DENMEAD VILLAGE CARD RETURNS

DISCOVER YOUR DREAM WEDDING AT

WITH EVEN MORE PRIZES

THREE CHOIRS VINEYARD

Ward councillor for Denmead and Portfolio Holder for Build Environment, Cllr Caroline Brook at Denmead Poultry drawing the winning Denmead Village Card

loyalty scheme card for Denmead village is returning with even more incentives this year. The popular Denmead Village Card scheme encourages residents to shop locally with a number of exciting deals and prizes from the 11 participating businesses involved. From fish & chips to massages, free MOTs to flowers – the prize draw has a wide variety of vouchers and rewards. Denmead Village Card holders can earn stamps at 11 different local businesses and once they have 10 stamps, they simply pop the card into the prize draw box, which is hosted in a different participating business each month and on the first day of the month one lucky card holder is drawn from the box to win that month’s prize. Cllr Robert Humby, the City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Business Partnerships and Economy said: “The City Council is keen that District residents in villages like Denmead can support their businesses by shopping locally. Initiatives like this can help sustain the economy of these villages and offer a fun incentive for residents to get involved. I am delighted that the Denmead Village Card is returning this year.” Ward councillor for Denmead and Portfolio Holder for Build Environment, Cllr Caroline Brook said: “I’ve always been a supporter of the Denmead Village Card and recently had the privilege of drawing the prize winner for January at Denmead Poultry. It’s an excellent local scheme which is supported by the City Council’s Economy and Arts team – I’m extremely pleased to see it returning.” More than 3,500 cards will be posted through residents doors in March, and the cards will also be attached in the Spring edition of the local publication ‘Denmead Scene’. 20

hree Choirs Vineyard is a picturesque vineyard nestled amongst the stunning Hampshire countryside at the foot of the Meon Valley. With exclusive use, the relaxed and unique venue is the perfect place to take your vows and celebrate your new journey as a married couple. If you dream of a romantic outdoors wedding, then your dreams have come true! The wooden gazebo sitting amongst the vines is the most beautiful location to hold an outdoor ceremony. The gazebo is licensed for civil ceremonies for 50-90 guests. Amid the vines sits the Old Winery and courtyard, beautifully renovated into a rustic barn perfect to hold your wedding breakfast and evening reception. With original wooden beams, chandeliers made of vintage crystal cut wine glasses and 10ft oak doors, this room holds the characteristics of the old Winery it once was, but is also the perfect canvas to transform for each wedding. Three Choirs has a small but friendly team of wedding coordinators, there to help each wedding run smoothly and ensure the bride and groom have the perfect day, creating memories for a lifetime. The vineyard has many areas, creating the perfect backdrop for wedding photos. An enchanting, romantic setting for a relaxed and enjoyable day. Coming up in March Three Choirs are hosting their very own showcase where the vineyard and barn will be dressed for a wedding, so you can see the venue in all it’s glory! With a fantastic range of suppliers also exhibiting to offer their services to make your wedding day perfect. For more information Tel: 01329 834700 www.threechoirs.com Three Choirs Vineyard, Wickham, SO32 2HL

P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 3 0 | MAR CH

COMMU N IT Y P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 30 | MARCH

Community Professional THE ‘RURAL OSCARS’ ARE BACK FOR 2017, WITH MEONSTOKE POST OFFICE AND STORES AS A FINALIST

he Countryside Alliance Awards, nicknamed the ‘Rural Oscars’, are returning for their 13th year. Thousands of nominations have been submitted honouring the skills and produce, tradition, enterprise and the people who go the extra mile for their communities. From thousands of nominations seven regional champions, from five categories, will be invited to Parliament for the British finals, and in the presence of MPs and Ministers just five will be crowned British Champions. Regional champions will be announced in March 2018, who then advance to the British final, which will be held in April 2018 at the House of Lords. It has been announced that Meonstoke Post Office and Village Stores is a regional finalist in the awards for the South East of England, and is competing against Amberley Village Stores and Post Office from West Sussex, Graffham Village Shop from West Sussex and The Shop at Strood Green from Surrey. Meonstoke Post Office and Village Stores is a local, family run business that supports other local businesses, stocking local wine within a mile of the shop from Exton Park Wines, New Forest Ice Cream, Chalk Stream Foods from the rivers of the Itchen and the Test, local artisan bread, fresh local fruit and vegetables and lots more local fare.

5 TIPS ON WRITING AND DELIVERING A BETTER EULOGY

ears ago I conducted a funeral where a family member stood up to pay an extremely short and, let’s say, unusual tribute to his Uncle. “He liked to drink and he liked to fight”. It really was short and unusual! Everyone laughed though. It was, after all, the truth. It captured the Uncle perfectly. But it got me thinking about what needs to be considered when planning and delivering a good tribute. A good eulogy is a personal tribute to the person who has died, summing up the key events of their life, but more importantly, describing their personality and what made them special to the people attending the funeral. At A H Freemantle we suggest families consider the following 5 points: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5)

Less is more…no it really is. The temptation to cover every detail is overwhelming, particularly if they have had a long life. But typically around 4-5 minutes is about right. Keep it personal…Short stories rather than lists of facts are more interesting to listen to. Ideally these will be stories where you were involved. Make sure it’s more about them than you though! Keep it positive...If there are difficult topics to cover the congregation will probably already be aware.You don’t need to break the news to them during the funeral. Keep a written copy to hand. Don’t risk standing up with only bullet points. If overcome with emotion someone else can stand in and help with a speech written in full. Use a large font if you’re typing it out. Keep it conversational. Talk clearly and slowly. Look at your listeners and make eye contact while talking to them. You are sharing your personal experiences with them, they are as privileged as you are to be a part of this, but that doesn’t mean you need to lecture them.

For the shop, local produce is key for many reasons; to make sure you receive them when they are most fresh, to support local businesses and to promote a reduced carbon footprint.

Always remember that everyone there is behind you 100% so stay calm and take your time.

www.meonstokepostofficeandvillagestores.co.uk Meonstoke Post Office & Village Stores, Warnford Road, Corhampton, SO32 3ND

For further advice visit AHFreemantle.co.uk or call us 01489 885525. James Keen is Managing Director of A H Freemantle Funeral Directors

P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 3 0 | MAR CH

Animed

Veterinary Hospital & Equine Unit Is your Pet a member of the Healthy Pet Club yet? Would you like to save money?

Our scheme is not an insurance - it is a monthly payment loyalty scheme that covers your pet for all preventative healthcare medicine including selected lifetime care medication.

We offer schemes for puppies and kittens, adult dogs and cats and rabbits

For just ÂŁ9.99 a month, you can ensure your horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health is fully protected all year round. PLUS MiHorse Club is the only club where you save money with your vet, with a 10% discount on all veterinary treatment! So why not join now? Simply call 01329 833112 www.animedvets.co.uk/MiHorse-Club

Tel: 01329 833112 www.animedvets.co.uk ANIMED VETERINARY GROUP

SHEDFIELD

SO32 2JG

F EAT U R E I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Jane's Kitchen SIMNEL CAKE - A TRADITIONAL EASTER CAKE

Ingredients

∙ 200g unsalted butter ∙ 200g golden caster sugar ∙ 4 large eggs ∙ 500g mixed dried fruit (candid peel, sultanas, and currants) ∙ 300g plain flour 1teaspoon baking powder teaspoon salt ∙ 2 large lemons (grate rind and squeeze juice) ∙ 500g ready-made marzipan/homemade almond paste

Method

curdles. Sift the remainder of flour with the baking powder and add to the mixture with the lemon juice. Stir in the mixed fruit and mix well. Place in the prepared tin and bake for approximately. 3 hours in a moderate oven 325˚C. A skewer inserted into the centre should come out clean. Cool on wire rack. To decorate – using 2/3 of the marzipan roll into a 7” round to fit the top of the cake. Brush the top with a little apricot jam, or egg white and press in place. Roll the remaining paste into 11 balls (to represent the apostils) decorate with mini Easter eggs and chicks.

Grease a 7” cake tin and line the base with greaseproof or baking parchment.

Happy Easter - Jane Brown

In a large bowl cream the butter and sugar with grated lemon rind until light and fluffy. Add the beaten eggs one at a time beating well, add a little flour if the mixture

Don't miss Jane’s Kitchen. An eclectic collection of seasonal recipes. Available from Leckford Farm Shop, Leckford and Chilbolton Village Stores - Price £6.99. Please note this recipe is not featured in the book

Your local, independent and family owned Funeral Homes of Denmead, Wickham & Clanfield Managing and Principal Funeral Director

Mr Paul M Lee-Bapty Dip FD Affil RSH 24 hour local and personal service • Floristry service • Stonemasonry service • No deposits required Our Denmead Funeral Home

Our Wickham Funeral Home

Denmead Office - Tel: 02392 231567 The Old Post Office House, Hambledon Road, Denmead, Waterlooville, PO7 6NN

Clanfield Office - Tel: 02392 570239 43 Drift Road, Clanfield, Waterlooville, PO8 0JS

P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 3 0 | MAR CH

South Downs Funeral Service

Wickham Office - Tel: 01329 833920 13 The Square, Wickham, Fareham, PO17 5JG

www.southdownsfuneralservice.com

Clanfield Office now open! www.macdonaldoates.co.uk

Employment Law Services Here to support you and your business

Disciplinary and grievance matters Discrimination Contracts and Policies Business Reorganisation Tribunal Litigation In-house training

Petersfield Telephone: 01730 268211 Facsimile: 01730 261232

om m Em erc i pl al oy Li tig me nt at i Pr on op er W ty ills & P M ed rob ia at t Fa ion e m ily

Midhurst Telephone: 01730 816711 Facsimile: 01730 816016 MacDonald Oates LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. MacDonald Oates LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England & Wales under number OC344357. Our registered office is at Walltree Court, St. Peter’s Road, Petersfield, Hampshire, GU32 3HT.

F OOD & DR IN K ISSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Food & Drink WINCHESTER BEER AND CIDER FESTIVAL 2018

GREAT HAMPSHIRE SAUSAGE AND PIE COMPETITION

ast month, a panel of expert judges from across the country gathered at Eastleigh College to participate in the Great Hampshire Sausage and Pie Competition 2018 organised by local food group Hampshire Fare.

Held at East Avenue Restaurant on Wednesday 14th February and Thursday 15th February, the event received a record-breaking 261 entries from 46 butchers. There were twelve categories in the competition including Traditional Pork Sausage, Speciality Sausage, Beef and Lamb Sausage, Cold-eating Pie, Hot-eating Pie, Charcuterie, Young Sausage Maker and Black Pudding. Judges assessed the entries against strict criteria including appearance, filling, texture, shrinkage, taste and smell. With such a large number of entries, judging stretched over two days with fourteen judges involved in the process. The catering and hospitality students from Eastleigh College assisted at the competition. They helped to store, order and cook entries under the guidance of tutor Greg Cheeseman. The students also had the opportunity to sit with the judges to understand what made a good entry.

incheser Beer and Cider Festival is once again coming to Winchester Guildhall this March. The festival is organised wholly by volunteers of the Southern Hampshire branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) Once again Winchester Guildhall will be filled with over a hundred different real ales, ciders, perries and foreign bottled beers. To make this event possible we rely on our corporate sponsors. In return they receive tickets and publicity. If you'd like to become a sponsor please visit www.shantscamra.org.uk and contact us. Winchester Guildhall remains our venue partner. It combines old and new to create a beautiful and modern venue within the historic Victorian exterior. We're delighted to be continuing Beer Tastings following their success last year. The Beer Tasting will be introduced by writer and beer expert Adrian Tierney-Jones. This year we're very pleased that Emmaus is the Festival's nominated charity. Emmaus Hampshire is a vibrant and thriving social enterprise community for the homeless. They provide meaningful employment through retail, catering, distribution and facility management services along with personal development for all individuals, which can help maximise their potential and secure their entry back into society. For more information about the Southern Hampshire Branch of Campaign for Real Ale work locally please visit our website www. shantscamra.org.uk. Other festivals organised by us include the Woolston Beer Festival (East Southampton) in October and the annual Southampton Beer Festival which will be held at Saint Mary's Stadium, Southampton in June.

This year's festival will take place on the following dates: Friday 16 March: 11.30am - 4pm & 6.30pm - 11pm Saturday 17 March: 11.30am - 4pm & 6.30pm - 11pm For more information and tickets please visit: www.winchesterbeerfestival.org.uk 26

The competition is sponsored by Lucas Ingredients, Dalziel, AHDB, Rationale, Mozzo and Eastleigh College. With judging now complete, entrants must wait until Thursday 1st March when the winners will be announced at the ticketed awards ceremony being held at Rownhams House and Gardens. www.hampshirefare.co.uk

Banks Bar Bistro

Modern British cuisine with Continental influences Banks Bar Bistro is a privately owned restaurant situated in a delightful Grade II Listed building in the heart of the Saxon town of Bishops Waltham, Hampshire

Now taking bookings for Mother's Day & Easter •••

Tel: 01489 896352

banksbarbistro@gmail.com • www.banksbarbistro.co.uk The Old Granary Bank Street Bishops Waltham SO32 1AE

Lambing Days

Find us

Come and see our new arrivals and find out what goes on around the farm at lambing time!

Westlands Farm, Pricketts Hill, Wickham, SO32 2JW

Dates Swanmore A32

Bishop's Waltham

Waltham Chase

Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th March Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th March From 10am - 4pm on all days Adults: £5.00

Children: £2.50

Under 3's Go Free

A3 2

Shedfield

Wickham To Titchfield

Farm Shop Open Mon - Sat: 8am - 5pm Sun: 9am - 4pm Last orders 15 minutes before closing

FOR HEALTH REASONS PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD NOT ATTEND THIS EVENT

Tea Room Open

SORRY NO DOGS

Mon - Sun: 9am - 4pm

Tel: 01329 833832 www.westlandsfarmshop.co.uk

R ETA IL I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Market Square UNIQUE - BESPOKE - ECLECTIC - LOCAL ARE · M A

ARKET SQ

·M

ET S QUARE

E · MARKE

SQU

McCarthy's Farm Shop

Chase Cycles

Moda Rosa

For all your day to day and Mother's Day gifts Winchester Road, Wickham, PO17 5HE Tel: 01329 832221 | thefruitandvegbox.co.uk

Giant Liv Alight 3 womens bike - £370. Winchester Raod, Waltham Chase, SO32 2LG

Moschino dress and long jacket 35 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 733277 | www.modarosa.co.uk

Tel: 01489 893693 | nigelatchase@gmail.com

Botley Mills

Boutique ME

Flowers by the Bridge

For all your Easter needs! Botley Mills, Mill Hill, Botley, SO30 2GB

Lily & Me new Spring/Summer stock now in Boutique Me, High Street, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1AA

Tel: 01489 772900 | www.botleymills.co.uk

Tel: 01489 891052 |

Gorgeous spring flowers for Mothers Day. Selling beautiful seasonal and English flowers from a stall in West Meon. Tel: 07970 280077 | flowersbythebridge.com

Boutique ME

Mayfly Vintage

Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

Simon Lawson Jewellers

Furniture and homeware showroom. OpenWed-Fri 10am-3pm, Saturdays 10am-4pm.The Old Stables, Chilbolton Down Farm, Stockbridge, SO20 6BU.

Quality outdoor furniture, see website for details High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath

Tel: 07801 199131 | www.mayflyvintage.co.uk

Tel: 01329 835100 | www.equestrianfencing.com

18ct white gold baguette diamond cluster ring - £2,250 High Street, Bishop's Waltham, SO32 1AB Tel: 01489 895575 | simonlawsonjewellers.co.uk

Labels Dress Agency

Flowers by the Bridge

Wickham Jewellery

New owner, new look - now taking wedding dresses The Old Smithy, Brook Street, BIshop's Waltham, SO32 1AX Tel: 01489 896515 | www.labelsdressagency.co.uk

Mother’s Day Flowers from Flowers by the Bridge. Open Mothering Sunday.To order please call. Tel: 07970 280077 | flowersbythebridge.com

18ct white gold, Moonstone, Caversham citrone and diamond necklace - £595. Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN

WICKHAM JEWELLERY

R ETA IL I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

When enquiring about any of these Market Square items, please mention The Forum Magazine

Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

New Jewellery • Pre-owned Pieces Watches • Diamond Jewellery Remodelling / Redesigns Repairs • Gold Purchased

J’adore la Maison Hampshire stockist ofAnnie Sloan Chalk Paint,painting workshops and furniture painting service.J’adore la Maison,The Square,Wickham (next to Lilly’s) PO17 5JT

Wickham Jewellery

If you wish to buy or sell any of the above, please visit us at: Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN

Hero | Alresford Paisie Open Knit Cardigan with Ruffle Detail in Beige/Green - £98. 40 West Street,Alresford, SO24 9AU

Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

Tel: 01962 732909 | www.hero-online.co.uk

Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

Sweet Corner

Wickham Jewellery

8" x 3" x 94.5" (200 x 75x 2400) French Oak Sleepers. March SPECIAL £20 + Vat. High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath

At Sweet Corner you will find all you need for a "cracking" good Easter! Sweet Corner, 10 High Street, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1AA

Tel: 01329 835100 | www.equestrianfencing.com

Tel: 01489 892506 | www.sweetcorner.co.uk

White gold & diamond earrings - £800 Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN

Tel: 01329 835255 | www.jadorelamaison.co.uk

Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

COMMU N IT Y WELLBEIN G ISSU E 3 0 | MARCH

Community MUSIC FOR VOICES

NEW FOR THIS YEAR: the workshop on festival day, under the guidance of Howard Skempton, will be run as a masterclass open to the public. This promises to be a rare and insightful opportunity to observe creative processes in action. This one-day festival ends with a public performance which will include the premieres of these new works for voice and piano. Nicholas and Philip will also perform additional songs composed within the last 100 years, including Read’s atmospheric setting of Thomas Hardy’s Drawing Details in an Old Church. Singers from around the area, including Alresford Community Choir, will also be coming together to perform contemporary choral pieces, including Skempton’s Flight of Song originally written for CoMA and Read’s SingSong written for Hampshire Children’s Choir. In another exciting development, ex-Alton College students, composers Alex Ling and Joel Knee will be providing music for flexible ensembles – instruments and voices performing together. Festival bookings include an option to register as a performer. Singers and instrumentalists are encouraged to register their interest in performing.

For more information, visit www.martinreadfoundation.org

MRF is a platform for the continuation of Martin’s passions for music teaching, composition and contemporary music. It’s annual Festival is the highlight of the Foundation’s year – a day full of music-making and performance, exploring and celebrating contemporary composition. It has presented many world premiere performances, and showcases young composers supported by the Foundation.

HAIR ART BISHOP'S WALTHAM IS

aving launched as a charity in 2014, the Martin Read Foundation (MRF) is in full swing in it’s 4th year supporting young composers. Known to many as Alton College’s enigmatic Head of Music, Martin died suddenly in 2012 having energised and steered countless young musicians onto their current path. Martin was also a published composer.

MRF is endorsed by eminent patrons from the world of contemporary British music. Founder patron Howard Skempton (composer and lecturer at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire) has recently been joined in his support by Gwyneth Herbert (awardwinning British composer, lyricist and vocalist) and Judith Weir (Master of the Queen’s Music). This year’s festival focus is Music for Voices. Initially held at Farnham Maltings, the Festival returned home to Alton College last year, and will once more set the College rafters contemporarily buzzing on Sunday April 22nd. Selected to receive the Foundation’s support this year are 3 young composers destined to go places: Jack Robinson (14, London), James Edwards (15, Hampshire) and Oren Hirtenstein (17, Cornwall). These young composers are busy working on their MRF commissions for baritone – Philip Smith, and piano – Nicholas Bosworth. To mark 100 years since the end of hostilities in Europe, they are each working on texts selected from poems written during the First World War. They each receive mentoring from an established composer, and workshops in compositionperformance, run by the Foundation.

Wellbeing DELIGHTED TO WELCOME A NEW SENIOR STYLIST

e are delighted to welcome Jo a very special and extremely talented senior stylist to our Bishops Waltham salon. Jo has worked at the top of the hairdressing profession for over 10 years she has covered professional photographic/ video shoots, editorial magazine work, Jo specialises in colour, cutting & special occasions hair. Her exceptional quality is every time you have an appointment with her she talk’s you through a consultation where she listens to what you want then deliver’s. Many of Jo’s clients have remarked that before they meet her they were nervous of going to a salon. Jo’s clients have been with her for over ten years, we think that says it all. For one month only Jo is offering 20% off your first appointment this is a rare opportunity to book in with such a talented senior stylist. Book now on 01489 894700 Hair Art, High Street, Bishop's Waltham Hampshire, SO32 1AB

The Caci Jowl Lift Specifically targets those loose muscles around the jawline.

The Yard, Ashton Lane, Bishop's Waltham, SO32 1FN

Using quad probe applicators designed to double the lifting action of the Caci treatment system therefore enhancing the results and reducing treatment time. The 15 minute facial treatment helps improve the appearance of sagging jowls by using the quad probes which have been specifically developed to target the muscles around the jawline. They emit tiny electrical impulses to lift, firm and redefine the facial contours. You can have the treatment incorporated in the full facial Caci treatment for an extra £15 or as a stand alone treatment for £25. It is completely painless and the results are superb

www.grovechiropractic.co.uk

02380 582245

WELLBEIN G I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

of botley

HAIR ART

Call the salon today for more information

t: (01489) 789 589 High Street, Botley, Hampshire, SO30 2EA e: info@amandaofbotley.co.uk w: www.amandaofbotley.co.uk

ALRESFORD |

LONDON

Try the NEW: MesoLift treatments NO NEEDLE alternative to botox and fillers Unwind your mind and promote a healthy rejuvenated complexion with award winning Face Matters. Specialising in prescription facial treatments focusing on relaxation, skin health and naturally improving aged skin, wrinkles and expression lines, tone, texture, pigmentation, dark eye circles/ puffiness, and improving contours.

Ayurvedic Kansa Wand face and body treatments Gentle, healing and luxurious treatments to promote peace and wellness; ease stress, exhaustion as well as reviving the skin tone.

Contact me me on: on: 07887 Contact 07887878567 878567 www.sallycurson.co.uk www.sallycurson.co.uk 14 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT

Discover for yourself why you should make Fresh Air Fridays part ofwhy your life…. Discover forfor yourself you should make Discover yourself why you should make Fresh Air Fridays part of your life... Fresh Air Fridays part of your life….

h Air Fridays gives you time to:

Fresh Air Fridays gives you time to:

ISSUE 134 | DECEMBER

AESTHETIC STUDIO

Hair Art the premier hair salon in Bishops Waltham and Christchurch, is one of the leading names in hairdressing in Hampshire and Dorset, impeccable service, highly trained team of experts, a reputation built over 20 years. An experience not to be missed.

WELLBEING

amanda

A gentle form of treatment that looks at the body as a whole

Hair Art, High Street, Bishops Waltham Hampshire, SO32 1AB E: hairart.bw@gmail.com Tel: 01489 894700

Hair Art, The Guard House, Barrack Road, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 2TT E: hairart.christchurch@hotmail.com Tel: 01202 566200

www.hairart-makeup.com

ADVERTISING OFFER ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE FOR AS LITTLE AS £30 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT, MINIMUM 12 MONTH BOOKING FOR PRICE SHOWN)

For more information

01962 735137 stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

self-improvement and providing the highest quality care and standards for their patients in the long term. Christopher Leech, one of the partner dentists at Clear Dentistry, said: “This is the first time we have ever entered a dental competition and we are totally overwhelmed to win these awards, let alone the Best UK Practice. We were told that it was our level of care and service that most impressed the judges and that we offer every dental option under the sun! They found our facilities immaculate and state-of-the-art. They also loved our transparency, especially with planning and pricing, which helps builds our patients’ confidence ensuring they are really happy with the service they receive.”

he Right Worshipful Mayor of Winchester, Councillor David McLean visited the award winning Clear Dentistry recently to congratulate them on winning a number of awards. Councillor McLean was shown around the practice and introduced to the team at this Bishops Waltham based practice, who are celebrating winning Best UK Dental Practice, Best New Practice and Best Patient Care. The whole team at Clear Dentistry are completely focused on

Leigh Knowles, Partner at Clear Dentistry added “We are passionate about what we do, so to receive recognition nationally is amazing. In fact, winning Best Patient Care speaks volumes to us as it proves just how well we look after our patients. It is fantastic news and a worthy credit to our whole practice team”.

For more information including how to book an appointment to see us, please visit our shiny new website www.cleardentistry.co.uk We look forward to seeing you soon!

Give your teeth some love and call us today on 01489 892240

We are open late evenings for your convenience and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dental care is FREE on the NHS.

F EAT U R E I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Dah-dah-dah di-di-dit

’m not surprised when my friend, Anne Ponsonby, starts talking to me in Morse code. During the Second World War, eighteen-year-old Anne joined the FANY (First Aid Nursing Yeomanry) because she liked the uniform. She was expecting to learn how to drive and ferry senior army officers around the country, but FANY offered to train her as a radio operator, sending and receiving messages to and from the French Resistance – much more exciting! Now, over seventy five years later, Anne remembers anxiously listening out for the ‘Dah-dah-dah di-di-dit’ call signal as secret agents tried to make contact with her through the static. I’m showing Anne photos from my visit to the Secret Army Exhibition at Beaulieu in the New Forest.The stately home is better-known nowadays for the National Motor Museum and World of Top Gear, but during the Second World War Beaulieu was the site of the Special Operations Executive ‘Finishing School’. More than three thousand men and women were taught burglary, forgery, sabotage, slander, blackmail and murder there, as part of their training to become secret agents. Afterwards they parachuted into enemy-occupied Europe to inspire and assist the resistance movements, obeying Churchill’s instruction to ‘set Europe ablaze’. The Secret Army Exhibition includes encryption keys printed on silk handkerchiefs, knuckledusters disguised as rings for female agents and miniature tyre-slashing knives. However, it’s the transmitter disguised as a suitcase that catches Anne’s attention. ‘Look how big and heavy it is.The agents who were radio operators had to take that around with them without attracting attention.’ Anne explains that she had a schedule of times when the radio operators would try to contact her station in Grendon Underwood in Buckinghamshire.When she heard the call signal, she would tap back, ‘Are you ready?’ in encrypted Morse code and they would set off as quick as possible. She had 15 minutes to take their message down through the noise on her primitive wireless equipment and was forbidden to ask for a repeat. ‘The awful thing was if you did make a mistake you knew you were putting them in danger. So you had to get it down as

quickly as possible and send it off to be decrypted. It was strictly forbidden to send any messages using plain language. ‘Patience was required as sometimes no messages came through and we wondered if they were in trouble as they sat with their radio sets, probably in an abandoned building or on top of a hill knowing they were in mortal danger every time they went on air.’ Anne worried with good reason. Radio operators had a six week life expectancy once they entered enemy-occupied territory, for if a Nazi radio detector van caught them transmitting they would be tortured, imprisoned and shot. Among the agents trained at Beaulieu were fifty-five women who spoke perfect French. Some were married and had small children, others were working as shop assistants or had other jobs: all volunteered to leave them and go into occupied France. Nineteen were captured and perished in Ravensbrück or other concentration camps. Anne spent three years patiently listening to encrypted Morse code for six hour shifts on a 24 hour schedule. On June 6th 1944 she had no suspicion that anything was happening when she started her shift and sat at her radio receiver waiting for the familiar call signal.To her amazement and excitement a different pattern of Morse code started to come in. ‘Vive la France! ‘Vive La Grande Bretagne! ‘Vive les Allies! ‘over and over again. I suddenly realised I was taking down a message in plain French. I waved to the Sergeant in Charge, who came over, grabbed the message and literally ran to telephone Head Office with the news that for one radio operator in France, D-Day had begun.’ Anne always gets gooseflesh when she remembers this incident. ‘We celebrated that evening with warm beer and spam sandwiches’, she says with a smile. Iris Crowfoot Iris.crowfoot@gmail.com www.HamboneJunior.com

Traditional Values, Exceptional Service Since 1948 we have thrived on providing the best service and care, by introducing the latest technology. We have an extensive range of frames to suit any budget, from standard frames to luxury eyewear.

20% OFF FRAMES & LENSES Terms & conditions apply

Gift vouchers also available We offer full and comprehensive examinations that can include: OCT for Macula Degeneration • Visucam - Fundus Photography • Retinal Analysis Full Glaucoma Screening • Diabetic Monitoring • Visual Stress Analysis - Colorimetry Our routine eye examination includes Digital Fundus Imaging

To book an appointment please call: Park Gate: 01489 584169 • Havant: 02392 484184 60 Botley Road, Park Gate • 26 North Street, Havant

www.wingateopticians.co.uk

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Community

TREAT YOUR MOTHER THIS MOTHERS DAY AT HAMBLEDON VINEYARD

ALL SHOOK UP!

ebruary saw hundreds of cocktail lovers take to Winchester to celebrate a week of mixed drinks and spirits in the city. Over 20 venues took part in the festival, offering exclusive workshops, masterclasses, parties and discounts for wearers of the official Cocktail Week wristband. Signature cocktails were on offer for just £4, giving people the opportunity to try new flavours across the city, from the sublime, such as Greens’ ‘Aromatic Rose’, to pure fun, such as the bright blue and sherbety ‘Hook Line and Sinker’ at the William Walker. Gary Whiter, from festival organisers Cabinet Rooms, said, “We have had a great response from this year’s festival and have enjoyed following people’s adventures on social media as they toured the city, trying out all the drinks on offer.”

ow about a special sparkling treat for your mother this Mothering Sunday? For a relaxed, enjoyable and memorable afternoon, Hambledon Vineyard are putting on a cream tea and fizz event. Treat your mum on mother's day to a serene and idyllic tour of our beautiful vineyard in early spring. Take a relaxing afternoon stroll around our vineyard and state-ofthe-art winery, before settling down to glasses of our refreshing English fizz and a delicious fresh cream tea. This is a wonderful experience for mothers and grown up children alike, and a perfect gift for mother’s day.

New for this year was the ‘Fever-Tree Safari’ which, like the Gin Trail from previous years, saw thirteen venues offering premium serves for just £4 - from local gins with tonic to premium bourbon whiskies with ginger ale. During the festival, people were encouraged to try out new things and learn more about the cocktails they’re drinking. To help people put what they learnt into practice, local independent retailers offered a range of discounts. Toscanaccio on Parchment Street, offered discounts on the spirits being used across the city while Dinghams and Eclectic Hound in the Square offered discounts on glassware and cocktail making equipment. “There was a lot going on during the week,” explained Gary, “and the success of the festival is really down to all the businesses taking part. The organisation of the event is a massive undertaking and it really wouldn’t be possible without the support of our sponsors Rooster, Bacardi Brown-Forman Brands, Winchester Distillery, Nectar Imports and Fever-Tree.” With Winchester Cocktail Week now done for another year, the organiser’s attention is turning to their next events - the Ginchester Fête, a celebration of local gins, and Southampton Cocktail Week, which premieres 16-22 July 2018. www.hampshirefare.co.uk 36

This takes place on Sunday 11 March and is priced £22.50 per person which includes a full tour of our vineyard and winery, wine tasting, cream tea and one glass of each of our delicious sparkling wines. If you have any dietary requirements, please do let us know in advance. If required, we can also provide a bouquet of flowers on arrival for your mother as an extra, to arrange please contact a member of the team on 02392 632 358. Hambledon Vineyard, East Street, Hambledon, PO7 4RY

COMMU N IT Y HOME ISSU E 3 0 | MARCH

Community PARISH COUNCIL CONSULTATION ON ST CLAIR'S MEADOW, SOBERTON

e hope you have already heard the good news that the 39-acre St Clair's Meadow was purchased at the end of September 2017 by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT) following successful fund-raising by the local community and a substantial Biffa Award under the Landfill Communities Fund scheme. As the new owner of St Clair's Meadow, HIWWT will be developing a management plan for the conservation of this rare natural habitat and wants to consult with local residents on their views and concerns about issues such as access, parking and grazing. The Parish Council has set up a small sub-committee to liaise between local residents and the HIWWT, collating your opinions and ideas and feeding these back to the Trust who will consider them when drawing up its plan for the meadow. The HIWWT will present the completed plan for the meadow at a Public Meeting in Soberton Village Hall on Monday 26th March at 7.30pm.

Blinds & Shutters Ltd We offer a full measuring, manufacturing and installation service for all types of high quality

Blinds - Awnings - Shutters Full 5 year guarantee

Other services include: Awning and canopy restoration (including re-covering) Blind servicing and repair work

For a free, no obligation quote in your own home or office:

Tel: 01962 736836 or 07711 007079 email:enquiries@drblinds.co.uk

www.soberton.org/consultation

EASTER DAY EGG HUNT AT LANGRISH HOUSE

oin us for an Easter Egg Hunt around the Langrish House grounds. Chocolate eggs of all sizes will be hidden in the gardens for all to find.Visit Reception to receive an Easter basket to collect your eggs. Refreshments of Juices or Hot Chocolate are included in the price for the children. (Booking essential) This event takes place on Sunday 1st April from 11am - 12pm. Price is ÂŁ8 per child. A special chocolate prize will be given to the child finding the most eggs. For more information: www.langrishhouse.co.uk/index. php/event/easter-day-egg-hunt-2/?instance_id=2835 Tel: 01730 266941 Langrish House, Langrish, Petersfield, GU32 1RN

LUXURY FLO ORING SPECIALIST

T: 01962 735715

ENQUIRIES@EDDOLLSCARPETS.COM 30 BROAD STREET, ALRESFORD HAMPSHIRE, SO24 9AQ

WELLBEIN G I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Ridgemede House “Our Philosophy is to assure and enhance a resident's quality of life”

The accommodation at Ridgemede House is of an excellent standard. All rooms have en-suite facilities. Each room has a telephone with your own personalised number. If required LCD colour televisions can be provided. Wifi is also available on site. CCTV cameras now installed. The rooms can be tailored to suit you, either a single or married occupancy is available This is a real home away from home atmosphere, with lovingly home cooked meals provided for you

STAFF VACANCIES Carers required for day/night/evening shifts For further information please contact a member of our staff

Tel: 01489 892511 • Facebook: Ridgemedecareltd ridgemedecare@hotmail.co.uk • www.ridgemedecareltd.co.uk Rareridge Lane • Bishop’s Waltham • Southampton • SO32 1DX

F EAT U R E I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Hampshire People: Paul Baker THE FORUM TALKS TO PAUL BAKER - SAILOR & CRAFTSMAN OF THE FAMOUS EXBURY EGG

o be in conversation with Paul Baker is to be taken on a white water ride through his interesting life so far. Paul began his martime journey whilst dingy sailing at the age of thirteen, and quickly found he had the taste for being at sea. He found courage to support an inexperienced crew through a mid Atlantic hurricane which was a life changing experience in itself. Darjeeling taken black is Paul’s tea of choice but he settles for English Breakfast and I sip my very un-English flat white as Paul’s story unfolds. “As an army family we travelled extensively. I am the youngest of three and I think my parents despaired as to what to do with me at times. He laughs. I remember one summer my parents enrolled me on a dingy sailing course. I had never sailed before but by the end of the summer I was teaching the other kids how to do it! I had a complete epiphany realising even then that sailing was something I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I think I can say that my whole life has been shaped by my love of sailing and boats.” So it was only fitting that Paul came to Southampton at the age of eighteen to study boat building and boat yard management at the Southampton Institute. Paul remembers, “It was a fabulous course but it was definitely the practical side- the actual building of boats - that excited me. I managed to get some work experience with a traditional boat builder on the Thames.There was a particular week which I spent lying on my back in the cold Autumnal mud hammering copper nails through the bottom of a boat we were restoring, whist my boss bent the ends over from inside the hull. By the end of the week I was in glorious agony but there was no way you could give in. It was tough training but it taught me that determination and dedication pays off and has formed the basis of the way I work to this day.” Paul later worked at Cobbs Quay in Poole Harbour run by the uncompromising Eric Scobble where Paul was involved in interior fit outs of custom built yachts. Using matching veneers there was no room for error.

His boat building journey has subsequently taken him to Russia (Archangel) where he worked in a shipyard on the banks of the Davina River.This in turn led him to Turkey, Holland, Ireland, Sweden and Norway but always seeking the 'difficult' jobs, always prepared to take the path less trodden, to seek new ideas and experiences. In 1998 Paul finally set up his own business working with the renown Steve Etheridge in Lymington where they built large and often complex components for super yachts. But sadly the 2008 recession brought that to a crashing halt. I wonder what Paul's favourite yachts are? “Known as ‘S and S’, Sparkman and Stephens designs are in my opinion the best designed contemporary boats while William Fife and G.L Watson designed and built the most beautiful boats of yesteryear. It goes back to the old adage that if something looks right it probably is right." The sea is our last great wilderness for which I have a huge love and respect. I have sailed across the Atlantic, in the Arctic, the Baltic, the North and Irish Sea, the English Channel, around cape horn and across the Indian Ocean.Without doubt we are ruining our fabulous environment.When sailing back across the Atlantic we encountered so much rubbish in the ocean it was shocking.” Sailing into rubbish is a real danger on the ocean but Paul has had more than that to cope with.While sailing across the Atlantic with William and Max, a young and inexperienced crew, they were engulfed by a hurricane. “My sailing experience and knowledge proved vital. Clearly there’s no point in attempting sail in what were mountainous seas and ragging winds, so we took in all sail and dragged weighted ropes and chains astern to slow us down.This meant we were pulled back up over the waves as opposed to surfing down the front of them in an uncontrollable slalom. We were blown hugely off course but that didn’t matter.The hurricane passed and the sun came out, we had survived! Besides I’m not a racer, I’m a sailor. One of the best sights I have ever seen was the Lizard Point off Cornwall.Those beautiful cliffs plunging into the sea - Britain’s green and

pleasant land was a very welcome sight. Once safely in Falmouth Will, Max and I agreed we needed beer, burgers and cheese, very good it was too.” But what of boat building? “I was running my own business when the 2008 recession hit.We basically fell of the edge of a cliff. Boats just where not being built. I closed the business down as a form of damage limitation before things became really bad, a decision which still hurts to this day. But serendipity intervened and I was fortunate enough to be asked to completely renovate a dilapidated barn for a friend, from a shell of a building to a home. My new business grew from there really and has kept me busy to this day. There is nothing I like better than when a client says ‘I have this mad idea’ and they show me their design. I always know I can build it. But I’m not a technological person, the best computer I have is the one between my ears.When presented with a tricky problem I spend as much time as I can thinking about it and just let my hands do the rest.” This level of expertise and knowledge proved invaluable for Paul’s involvement with the Exbury Egg project. “A chance meeting with an old friend led to me building the wooden Egg that was inspired by artist Stephen Turner as a home and studio from which he has explored the relationship between nature, man and the community. It was a fantastic project taking seven

months to complete and becoming all consuming. A bit of my soul is definitely still with the Egg." The Exbury Egg has since received global recognition, has recently toured the UK including a visit to our own city of Portsmouth and was featured on George Clarke's Amazing Spaces TV program and in his book of the same name. What next for Paul Baker? “Certainly to continue to develop my business. I feel extremely privileged to be able to live and work in a beautiful community like Alresford doing what I do. Getting up in the morning is never a problem. But eventually I’m planning to sail the original route of the Whitbread Round the World Race where my family will be able to come out and join me at the stopovers." What will he miss on that sailing trip? “I never drink alcohol and sail so really good English ale and of course good fresh food. But as my wife will tell you I do enjoy an occasional Fray Bentos pie so no doubt I will find room for a few of them on board!" Until that time the charismatic Paul Baker will continue to do the other love of his life, “I make and fix things”. He says simply. Paul Baker does that extremely well. paulbmc@btinternet.com

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Clubs & Societies O Winchester & Solent Branch of the Cartophilic Society (Cigarette Cards) For more information contact 65+ Keith Miller: 01243 865147

ARTS & CRAFTS O Bishop's65+ Waltham Photographic Society For more information visit: bishopswalthamphotosociety.co.uk O Curdridge Amateur Drama Group For more information please see www.curdridgedrama.co.uk O Swanmore Amateur Dramatic Society For more information please ring 07701 044563 or email caroline-powell@live.com

65+

O The Solent Aviation Art Society For more information ring: 01489 578420

HORTICULTURE O Bishops Waltham Gardening Club For more information please see www.bwgc.org.uk O East Meon Garden Club For more information please call Pamela Peacock: 01730 823662 O Meon Valley Garden Club For more information please visit: www.meon-valley-garden-club. co.uk O West Meon Garden Club For more information please call Yvonne Noble: 01730 829050

O Bishop's Waltham Gateway Club For more information please contact Vee or Brian on 01489 895767. O Bishop's Waltham Rotary Club For more information please visit: bishopswalthamrotary.org.uk. O Meon Ladies For more information please email Sarah Snowdon on: sarah. snowdon@live.com O Meon Valley Lions Club For more information: 0845 833 7812 or visit: www. meonvalleylionsclub.org.uk 42

65+

MUSIC & DANCE O Bishop’s Waltham Library Toddler Time Every Wednesday during Term Time. 10.30am – 11am. Stories, rhymes and simple craft for the under 5’s

O West Meon Ladies Hockey Club For more information ring - 07786 830881 or email: jocopsey10@gmail.com or see Facebook- West Meon Ladies Hockey Club

65+ SENIOR CITIZENS

SPORTS CLUBS O Bishop's Waltham Badminton Club For further information visit: www.bishopswalthambc.com O Meon Valley Bowling Club For more information Tel: 01489 891871, email: meonbowls@live.co.uk www.meonvalleybowls.org.uk O South Downs Nordic Walking For more information please call: 07879 564990 or visit www. southdownsnordicwalking.co.uk

65+ O Swanmore Lawn

OTHER CLUBS & SOCIETIES O Bishop's Waltham Bridge Club For more information contact: Roger Robinson: 01489 877504 or Phil White: 01489 896877.

O The New Music Makers SATB Choir For more information contact Lin on 023 8045 4285 or visit: www.newmusicmakers.com O Singing for Fun For more information contact Annabel: 01489 877130 or 07732 329792.

Tennis Club For more information please visit: https://clubspark.lta.org. uk/swanmorelawntennisclub or contact: sec@swanmoretennis. co.uk.

O Meon Valley Active Retirment Association For more information visit: mvara.btck.co.uk O Meon Valley Carers Group For more information: Margaret: 01489 895444 on Monday between 9.15 & 13.15 for details. O Zero 4 Probus Club For more information contact Malcolm Watson: 01489 891875 or 07926 925466. https:// zero4probusclub.weebly.com O Waltham Priory Probus Club For more information please call Janet Gibson on 01489 783386.

O Hambledon Folk Club For more information visit: www.hambledonfolkclub.co.uk. folkclubhambledon@hotmail. co.uk O Meon Voices Choir For more information please contact Phil: 01489 579078, coundleypj@yahoo.com or Maureen 01489890335 alan@agbuckland.plus.com.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT ANY OF THESE LISTINGS?

65+

Then visit www.forumpublications.co.uk. Click on the local information button on the menu. Select the Meon Valley and browse all your local clubs and societies in detail with direct links to their websites

Happy

Softeners

Make your water Happy water

Save up to £800 per year with a UK Made non electric block salt water softener from Happy Softeners Nine reasons to install a Happy Softener • Removes existing build up from pipework without causing any leaks • Lowers your energy bills, limescale acts as insulation around your heat exchange, so water heats up quicker without any limescale in the way • Softer Skin, soft water gives you the softest skin and hair, so no need to ever use any moisturisers again • Health Benefits, soft water has been proven to dramatically reduce eczema and in some cases eliminate it completely • Less Cleaning, soft water means no water marks on the shower screen, no scale and scum around the sink, it makes cleaning a dream. • Less Cleaning products, use a teaspoon of powder in your washing machine, and also dishwasher, and save hundreds of pounds a year. • Longer lasting appliances, thats right with no scale they will have less strain meaning they last much, much longer. • Nicer cups of tea, no scale in the kettle means better tea, and you can safely drink the water from a Happy Softener. Houzz 2017 and 2018 customer service award

• Fits under your sink, unlike most water softeners which have to be installed outside.

Call us now for a free home quotation

T: 01489 339177

W: happysofteners.uk

F EAT U R E I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Hampshire Mum

The Tale of the Tiny Dancer

think it’s fair to say that it’s not everyday you find yourself holding a large torch for a policeman as he straddles a ditch. Well it hasn’t happened to me before, but there’s always a first time. A friend had texted me to say there had been a spate of burglaries locally.

A few days later The Husband and I were walking the Pagan Pup when I cast my eye, as you do, into the ditch by the roadside. There in the mud was a smashed jewellery box complete with a once twirling ballerina; the tiny dancer’s tutu now caked in mud. Scattered around was a selection of chains, broaches and bracelets that The Husband gathered up and placed in a handy bag that you tend to have about your when walking the dog. I thought to myself , now what? Once home I went straight to the ‘found property’ section of the Hampshire Police website. I filled in the online form and description of items as best I could and pressed 'send'. “We’ll hear no more about that I’ll wager”. But that was not to be the case, because only two hours later the Husband says, “Sandra there’s a Policeman at the door!” PC Eversoyoung came in donned rubber gloves while I made him a cuppa and proceeded to unravel the mud-covered items onto my table.They made a sad little collection laid out in rows, monetary value were of no importance, we were looking at items that had been kept and cossetted for many years for personal reasons. I tried to imagine the history behind them, what a tragic way for them to end up. “ What will you do with all this?” “ Take it all to the station for photographing and then show to it all those affected and hopefully reunite this property with it’s owner - what do you think this is?”

PC Eversoyoung’s blue latex glove held out the ballerina. I explained that in years gone by some jewellery boxes were musical, lift the lid and the ballerina would turn around to the music. “ The rest of the box is in the ditch”. “Can you show me where madam”. After a short journey in the front of a police car ( I did wonder if I should be party to all that was going on over the radio) - I found myself holding a torch while PC Eversoyoung summoned the courage to step into the ditch and retrieve the broken jewellery box and indeed other items that lay hidden in the ooze. Bless him he was ankle deep, but undaunted he diligently sifted through the mud until there was nothing left to retrieve, assuring me that police regulation boots are guaranteed not to let in water, or anything else.Well thank goodness for that. It was then raining quite hard, “I wonder I couldn’t have a lift home could I?” Bit cheeky but worth a try. “Yes of course madam hop in, sit in the front now it’s only if you’ve done something wrong that you get to sit in the back.” “No chance of the blue lights then?” And sure enough as he dropped me off at Chez Pagan the lights were indeed flashing. The Police often get bad press but PC Eversoyoung was very caring and aware that there was deep meaning in the items recovered and genuinely hoped they would be reunited with their owner and they give that person some solace. In a time of deep distress for the victims of theft PC Eversoyoung restored ones faith. As for the perpetrators they are only concerned with monetary value and nothing for the values of sentiment, memory or love. Sandra Pagan

Bring light into your home

H OME I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

THE GLASS SIDED STAIRCASE COMPANY

We design, supply and fit bespoke, handcrafted glass sides to your existing staircases

Quote promo code GSTF/2017 to get 20% off glass* *Promo code valid on all orders placed by end February 2018

Contact Peter or Keith for a FREE consultation & quotation

Tel: 01962 736959 or 07827 389320 info@theglasssidedstaircasecompany.co.uk

South Coast Installations Beautiful Craftsmanship from a Trustworthy, Local, 30 Year Established Family Firm Proud to offer you the very best service in:

Conservatories • Windows • Doors • Extensions We offer free quotations and advice, and do not take deposits

All of our products come with a 10 year guarantee For more information, please contact us or visit our website

Tel: 01489 799964

www.southcoastinstallations.co.uk 45

INSPIRING

PRACTICAL

BEAUTIFUL

Choose your perfect style HANDLELESS

PAINTED OAK

TWO TONE

What to expect: A HUGE RANGE OF COLOUR AND STYLE OPTIONS

INSTALLATIONS SERVICES: WALL REMOVAL TO DECORATING

HONEST AND TRANSPARENT PRICING

01489 798 644

SCHEDULE OF WORK AND FULL PROJECT MANAGEMENT

www.kitchenliving.co.uk

MAKE THE HEART OF YOUR HOME MAGNIFICENT WITH A LUXURY, MADE TO MEASURE KITCHEN

View displays and samples at our SHOWROOM then book a HOME VISIT

GET A DETAILED, IN STORE PRESENTATION OF YOUR DESIGN WITH IMAGES AND A FULL QUOTATION

HAVE A CHANCE TO REVIEW AT YOUR OWN PACE

THEN SIT BACK AND LET US CREATE YOUR DREAM KITCHEN! Visit our Hedge End showroom: Unit 2-3, Mayflower Park, 28 Botley Road, Hedge End SO30 2HE Open Monday – Friday 9am – 5.30pm Saturday 9am – 4pm

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Church Services BISHOP'S WALTHAM

O Catholic Church of Our Lady Queen of Apostles Sunday 25 March 09.30 Blessing of Palms, Procession and Mass Wednesday 28 March 19.00 Way of the Cross Maundy Thursday 19.30 Mass of the Lord's Supper Good Friday 15.00 Liturgy of the Passion Saturday 31 March 20.00 EasterVigil and Mass Easter Sunday 09.30 Sunday Mass Every Sunday 09.30 Sunday Mass Every Saturday 18.00 Evening Mass O St. Peter's Sunday 4 March 08.00 BCP Communion 09.15 Parish Communion 09.15 Informal Service in Church Hall Sunday 11 March 08.00 BCP Communion 09.15 Joint Mothering Sunday Service 18.30 Evensong at The Blessed Mary, Upham Sunday 18 March 08.00 BCP Communion 09.15 Parish Communion 09.15 Informal Service in Church Hall Sunday 25 March 08.00 BCP Communion 09.15 Morning Worship 09.15 Informal Service with Communion in Church Hall Maundy Thursday 20.00 Upper Room Service followed by vigil to midnight Good Friday 10.00 Walk of Witness 13.00 Preaching the Cross Everyday 08.45 Morning Prayer Thursdays (except 8, 22 & 29 March) 10.00 Midweek Communion followed by refreshments

O St. Peter & St. Paul Sunday 4 March 18.30 Evensong Sunday 18 March 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 25 March 10.30 Palm Procession & Family Eucharist

MEONSTOKE

O St. Andrew's Sunday 4 March 10.30 Holy Communion Sunday 11 March 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 25 March 09.30 Informal All Age Service

HAMBLEDON

O Methodist Church Sunday 4 March 10:30 Sunday worship and Craft Sunday for children aged 3 to 11 Sunday 11 March 10:30 Sunday worship and Mothering Sunday Friday 16 March 10:30 Prayer and Praise service with free fellowship supper to follow Sunday 18 March 10:30 Sunday Worship Sunday 25 March 10:30 Palm Sunday Worship O St Peter & Paul Sunday 4 March 08.00 Holy Communion 10.30 Parish Communion 18.30 Evensong Sunday 11 March 08.00 Holy Communion 10.30 Family Service 18.30 Taize Sunday 18 March 08.00 Holy Communion 10.30 Parish Communion 18.30 Evensong for Joseph of Nazareth Sunday 25 March 08.00 Holy Communion 10.15 Procession 10.30 Parish Communion 18.30 Music and Readings for the Passion Maundy Thursday 19.30 Holy Communion Good Friday 10.00 Walk of Witness 14.00 Meditation with Hymns

NEWTOWN

O Saxon Church Sunday 18 March 10.30 Matins Sunday 25 March 08.00 Holy Communion

O Holy Trinity Church Sunday 18 March 10.00 Benefice Holy Communion Sunday 25 March 09.30 Benefice Palm Sunday Service Good Friday 10.00 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Easter Workshop

DROXFORD

SHEDFIELD

CORHAMPTON

O St. Mary & All Saints Sunday 4 March 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 11 March 10.30 Family Service followed by Holy Communion Sunday 18 March 10.00 Informal All-age Service

EXTON

O St. John the Baptist Sunday 4 March 08.00 Holy Communion BCP 10.00 Parish Communion with visiting speaker Andy Lester from A Rocha about environmental issues Sunday 11 March 08.00 Mothering Sunday Holy Communion BCP 10.00 Family Service Sunday 18 March 08.00 Holy Communion BCP

10.00 Parish Holy Communion 18.00 Sung Evensong Sunday 25 March 08.00 Holy Communion BCP 10.00 Palm Sunday Service Maundy Thursday 19.30 Joint service of Holy Communion, washing of feet and watch until 10pm at St Nicholas,Wickham Good Friday 10.30 Good Friday Service in Wickham Square 11.00 Walk of Witness 14.00 Service of Music and Reflection Easter Sunday 08.00 Holy Communion BCP 10.00 Parish Holy Communion Thursdays 10.00 Holy Communion in the Morrell Room

SHIRRELL HEATH

O Methodist Church Sunday 4 March 10.30 Morning Worship 18.00 Evening Worship Sunday 11 March 09.00 Breakfast Church Breakfast served from 09.00-09.45, followed by Family Worship until 10.30 18.00 Evening Worship Sunday 18 March 10.30 Morning Worship with Holy Communion 18.00 Evening Worship Sunday 25 March 10.30 Morning Worship 18.00 Evening Worship with Holy Communion

SOBERTON

O St Peter's Church Sunday 4 March 10.00 Benefice Holy Communion with ROCS (for all children) Sunday 11 March 10.00 Mothering Sunday Service Maundy Thursday 18.00 Maundy Thursday Service of the Word Good Friday 14.00 Good Friday Service of the Word

SWANMORE

O St Barnabas Sunday 4 March 08.00 Eucharist 10.00 Parish Eucharist inc Sunday Club Sunday 11 March 08.00 Eucharist 10.00 Family Eucharist Sunday 18 March 08.00 Eucharist 10.00 3rd@10 Cafe Church 18.30 Eucharist Sunday 25 March 08.00 Eucharist 10.00 Parish Eucharist inc Sunday Club Maundy Thursday 19.30 Eucharist with foot-washing Good Friday 10.00 Messy Church 14.00 Liturgy of the Cross Wednesdays 11.00 Eucharist Thursdays 08.15 Morning Prayer Saturdays 12.00 Midday Prayer

O Methodist Church Sunday 4 March 10.30 Morning Service with Holy Communion 18.00 Evening Service Sunday 11 March 10.30 Morning Family Service 18.00 Evening Service Sunday 18 March 10.30 Morning Service 18.00 Evening Service Sunday 25 March 10.00 Morning Service at St Barnabas 18.00 Evening Service

UPHAM

O Church of the Blessed Mary Sunday 4 March 11.00 Parish Communion Sunday 11 March 11.00 Mothering Sunday Service 18.30 Evensong Sunday 18 March 11.00 Parish Communion Sunday 25 March 11.00 Parish Communion Good Friday 12.00 Communion Service

WALTHAM CHASE

O Waltham Chase Methodist Church Sunday 4 March 09.30 Family Breakfast 10.00 Family Worship 11.00 Worship & Word Sunday 11 March 10.30 Morning Worship Sunday 18 March 10.30 Morning Worship Sunday 25 March 10.30 Morning Worship Easter Sunday 10.00 Easter Day Family Service

WARNFORD

O Church of Our Lady Sunday 4 March 09.00 Holy Communion Sunday 11 March 10.30 Joint Service atWest Meon: Mothers Day All Age Service Sunday 18 March 09.00 Holy Communion Sunday 25 March 09.00 Walk to West Meon Good Friday 14.30 Watching at the Foot of the Cross Easter Sunday 09.00 Parish Communion Saturdays 09.00 Morning Prayer (Communion on the 10th)

WEST MEON

O St. John the Evangelist Sunday 4 March 10.30 Parish Communion Sunday 11 March 10.30 Mothers Day All Age Service Sunday 18 March 10.30 Service of the Word Sunday 25 March 10.30 Joint Communion service starting at theVillage (Doctor's) cross 19.00 Stations of the Cross Maundy Thursday 19.30 Celebration of the Institution of Holy Communion Easter Sunday 10.30 Parish Communion Wednesdays & Thursdays (Except 8 March) 09.00 Morning Prayer

PROUD MEMBERS OF

GARAGE DOOR SOLUTIONS

ROLLER DOORS

DON S DOORS We supply and install all leading manufacturer of garage doors and in a wide selection of styles;

Up & Over • Side Hinged • Automated Insulated Roller • Timber • Sectional All images shown are actual Don's Doors installations

INSULATED SECTIONAL

SIDE HINGED

Call 02380 600027 to arrange a free no obligation survey and quote Unit 9 & 10, Vicarage Farm Business Park, Winchester Road, Fair Oak, Eastleigh, SO50 7HD sales@donsgaragedoors.co.uk • www.donsgaragedoors.co.uk

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Community

WILDLIFE WORLDWIDE: JOIN US TO CELEBRATE JAPAN

A WINTER'S VISIT FROM WINCHESTER'S MAYOR TO EXTON PARK VINEYARD

e are delighted to invite you to a special evening event 'Walking the ancient trails of Japan'. Team member Jon Barber will talk from the heart about his enjoyment of experiencing shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and the health benefits of forest serenity whilst walking these pristine trails last year. Japanese culture is renowned the world over and we are delighted to be joined by the Kiso Tourist Board.You can learn about different aspects of this culture from ryokans to onsens, and sample some authentic Japanese food and drink. The Mayor of Winchester with Corinne Seely & Fred Langdale

e were thrilled to welcome the mayor of Winchester, Cllr. David McLean, to Exton Park Vineyard last week.

Mayor McLean enjoyed a tour of the estate and brought the sunshine with him as he was shown around the vineyard and modern winery by Fred Langdale and Corinne Seely – the Vineyard Manager and Head Winemaker. The team explained how the specific microclimate in the Meon Valley, combined with the pure chalk soils that the vines are planted on, helps to develop the distinctive and attractive flavours for which our wines are rapidly becoming recognised. The team also shared news that many of our Hampshireproduced wines can now be found in top restaurants (including Michelin Star!) and wine merchants across the UK and abroad. Additionally, Mayor McLean was shown exciting designs for future development at the vineyard aimed to support the growing business, and was kind enough to comment that it was an “informative visit to Exton Park Vineyard, English Sparkling Wines to rival the best of the world’s Sparkling.” It was very promising to see this level of support for our burgeoning Hampshire wine industry. Here’s to the Mayor of Winchester! www.extonparkvineyard.com 50

The event will be held at the Guildhall in Winchester on Tuesday 13th March at 7pm where there will be the opportunity to meet the team and discuss your holiday plans. This journey takes you through the incredible landscapes of Japan, home of some of the most stunning ancient trails in the world. Hike up Mount Kintoki to get a chance to glimpse the finest views of Mount Fuji in the distance. Experience ancient Japanese customs and lifestyles as you trek the Sacred Mountains of Togakushi. Experience the history and culture of historic cities such as Kyoto and the beautiful Matsumoto Castle and pass vast swathes of Japanese countryside and towns as you take different trains and buses across the country. Across this itinerary you will get to explore some of the seldom-seen corners of Japan, visit the most impressive attractions, embrace cultural customs such as onsens, and discover a unique and thriving culture in one of the greatest landscapes in Asia. ∙ Walk along ancient trails ∙ Experience traditional Japanese life untouched by modernity ∙ Encounter exquisite peaks and pristine forests ∙ Stay in traditional ryokans to sample local customs and food To book your place or for further information, please email: events@walksworldwide.com Inspired? Let us take you there... Call one of our trekking specialists on 01962 737565 for more information.

Whatever your needs, long or short term

H OME I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Whatever you want to store...

...for whatever reason – house sale and purchase not coinciding, travelling, bereavement, house building work, decorating or even ‘de-cluttering’ to sell your house more quickly – we offer a friendly, flexible and secure facility.

Barn Store is a rurally-based, family run business covering the whole of the Meon Valley area. We offer all the features associated with the national chains, from high-tech security to hassle-free 24/7 access. For more information, visit our website:

www.barn-store.co.uk or give us a call quoting FORUM-MV: Fareham:

02392 384888

Offwell Farm, Southwick, Fareham PO17 6DX

Alresford:

01962 771993 Holden Farm, Cheriton, Alresford SO23 0NX

At Meon Valley Garage Doors, our aim is to provide a quality product at an affordable price.We use manufacturers we can trust, to exceed customers’ expectations. Our team has a reputation for professionalism, friendliness and supplying a first class service.

Meon Valley Garage Doors is a family run business with over ten years' experience within the industry. Based in Waltham Chase, Hampshire, we cover Dorset, West Sussex, Wiltshire and Hampshire

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Community SPRING DAY RETREAT – AWAKENING THE WILD WOMAN - SUNDAY 8TH APRIL: 11AM - 4.30PM

oin us to celebrate the turning of spring with our next Yoga Healing day retreat at the magical Hambledon Vineyard. Days become brighter, energy lighter and we ourselves are beginning to spring and burst from a deep winters sleep. As we work with the wheel of the year and the seasons of life, we become aware of our own cyclical rhythm.

We are transitioning from the depths of intuitive reflection to create space for new life to emerge and blossom. In following this cyclical rhythm, we understand that for every ending there must be a new beginning. And so it is. What has left us in the darkness of winter has opened space energetically for new beginnings as we enter the season of growth. Honour this space by planting seeds and watch them develop into summer treasures. Are you wondering what seeds to plant? Are you unsure what to dedicate your time to? We all come into life with our own medicine – all we need to do is listen and be open to our own voice, our inner heart, our natural rhythm. This day retreat is a time to do just that – to spend time out in the heart of nature connecting to the rhythmical cycles, within and without, and awaken the wild healing woman within.

Retreat yourself

We’ll begin with a Yin Yang Yoga practice that reflects the shift of energy from the inner world of reflection to the outer energy of growth and manifestation. A deep Theta meditation will guide you to awaken the wild woman within and what she’s calling you to grow. At this time our inner wild woman is fertile with seeds each holding their own spirit and consciousness, and each ready to bloom into unimaginable miracles. Reiki healing will support you in releasing any energetic blockages or imbalances to activate this time of fertility in life, ideas and the abundance of opportunities available to you. The practice will be followed by a nutritious lunch where you can sit overlooking the blossoming vineyard. Once your tummy is feeling lovingly nourished, Wine Educator Katrina Smith will guide you on a journey through the Vineyard sharing tales of Hambledon’s Wine making, and how we can learn so much from the earths cycles. Just like our own cycle, the vines have been dreaming under Mother Earth’s blanket, awakening to the subtleties of Spring, getting ready to blossom and grow.

Yoga healing details

Yin & Yang Yoga: Starting with a wonderfully nourishing, restoring and floor based yin practice before moving into a flowing meditative yang practice to encourage the energy to move freely within the body. 52

Theta: Theta is a non-invasive energy healing technique that uses meditation to empower you for positive change and train your brain with the things that your spirit already knows how to do. Reiki: Reiki is an ancient Japanese healing therapy which is a gentle hands on treatment. It works by intuitively activating your body’s innate ability to heal itself. Reiki heals and clears stagnant energy blocks and patterns so energy can flow freely in your body. This energy is deeply nourishing helping to soothe chronic conditions, release trauma and assist in physical recovery.

All of the information you need to know

Date: Sunday 8th April. Time: 10.30am – 4.30pm Location: Hambledon Vineyard (Closest train station is Petersfield. Taxi sharing option available to the Vineyard. Parking spaces available). What to bring: A Yoga Mat, Hardy Shoes/Wellies for the tour, Journal and Blanket. Early Bird Tickets: £85. Balance. Reconnect. Listen. Grow. For more information and booking please visit www.hambledonvineyard.co.uk/product/014spring-yoga

GEORGE HOLLINGBERRY HAS A SYMPATHETIC EAR FOR NURSES

he critical importance of nurses – both on the hospital ward and out in the community – is something which George cares about deeply. In a meeting with a regional representative of the Royal College of Nursing and constituent who is a nurse at Southampton General Hospital recently he was keen to hear their experiences of life on the ‘front line’ of healthcare in the area. He also listened to their suggestions about ways to recruit, retain and support nurses in order to make the sector more resilient in these times of growing public pressure on the National Health Service. The nurses were positive about the Government’s removal of the 1% pay cap last October, and the introduction of new-style nursing degree apprenticeships which it is hoped will bring up to 1000 new recruits into nursing each year. George also emphasised ongoing efforts made by Government to encourage the spread of good practice across NHS trusts, to reallocate nursing provision to areas of increasing demand such as mental health and to make discharge procedures more efficient. George – who has spent time observing in the Emergency Department at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth – also paid tribute to his colleague Jeremy Hunt, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, who he said was committed to finding sustainable solutions for the difficulties facing the nursing sector. www.georgehollingbery.com

Yale Security Hardware Available

Checkatrade and DGCOS Approved

Competitive Finance Rates Available^

10 Year Insurance Backed Warranty

First Class Customer Service

Often copied, never su rpassed!

SALE FREE UPGRADE TO TRIPLE GLAZING

Up to 40% MORE energy efficient than 'A' Rated double glazing

SAVE

’osn £pe£r y£ ear y rg

Upgrade your old windows and start saving money on your energy bills.

ne your eills! b

ANY SIZE, white PVCu Patio or French doors

£1230 Max 1900 wide x 2100 High

FITTED INC VAT

Any 3

Windows

Any 5

Windows

Any 7

Windows

Any 9

Windows

Any 11 Windows

Any 13 Windows

Any 15 Windows

Double Glazed

Triple Glazed

SAVE

£1695 £1946 £252 £2827 £3253 £426 £3960 £4555 £595 £5095 £5860 £765 £6225 £7160 £935 £7360 £8465 £1105 £8495 £9760 £1265

£995 £1625

Composite Doors from as little as Composite Front Door with a PVCu back door

Prices † INC VAT

FITTED INC VAT

Showrooms at: Market Road Chichester, Fort Fareham - Newgate Lane & Park Gate - Southampton VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS AT-MARKET ROAD, CHICHESTER & FORT FAREHAM, NEWGATE LANE

Proud members of DGCOS The Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) protects consumers buying Double Glazing products, Conservatories, Doors, Fascias, Soffits, Orangeries or associated products from DGCOS Accredited members. All DGCOS Accredited Installers are continually vetted in many areas to ensure consumers are satisfied. All customers receive comprehensive protection throughout the buying, installation, after sales and guarantee experience. I highly recommend that you use as DGCOS registered installer, TV’s Nick Ross

Don't just take our word for it!

over 2,300 satisfied customers can’t be wrong

9.7

OUT OF

Over 2000 Checkatrade reviews 10 Year insurance backed guarantees on all products A rated Triple or double glazing Huge range of products in PVCu, timber, aluminium and timber alternative Stunning showrooms in Fareham and Chichester Advanced Q-Lon weather seals High security YALE door locks Repair and maintenance service FITTED INC VAT Unrivalled experience and commitment

01489 858090 ®

Our customers benefit from

www.idealwindowsolutions.co.uk Unity Building, Fort Fareham Newgate Lane, PO14 1AH

These offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. ^Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We are a Credit Broker and not a Lender. Finance is available on orders over £1300. Finance available subject to status. IWS reserve the right to withdraw this offer at any time.

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 3 0 | MAR CH

Community

RECORD ENTRIES AS EHDC SPORTS AWARDS SHOWCASE THE DISTRICT’S WINNERS

ADVICE AND OPINIONS NEEDED TO HELP SUPPORT THE SOUTH DOWNS

rom martial arts to baton twirling, through squash, swimming, tennis and trampolining the very best of sport was celebrated at the East Hampshire Sports Awards last week. Hundreds of local sports stars, coaches, volunteers and supporters packed out the Old Thorns Golf and Country Estate, in Liphook, at East Hampshire District Council’s prestigious annual ceremony on Thursday 15 February.

he South Downs National Park Trust is carrying out research to make sure we get our messages right and are looking for people to participate in two-hour focus groups on 20 April 2018.

We’ll be looking at the issues and projects in the National Park where we should be prioritising our support; getting feedback on our fundraising material; and understand whether people would be happy to be asked for funds in other ways, such as a gift in your Will. We really want to make sure we “get it right” and do not upset our potential supporters.

Star quality was provided by Olympic Silver medallist Roger Black, one of the south’s most recognised sporting celebrities, who hosted the evening and from special guest marathon man Ben Smith. Ben ran 401 marathons in 401 days and he spoke inspirationally about the challenges and set-backs he overcame while completing his 10,506 miles, the equivalent of running from London to Sydney. The audience were alternately enthralled and amused by both Ben and Roger’s memories and anecdotes and both were inundated with requests for selfies as part of the council’s social media selfie competition. But the centre of attention were those nominated for the evening’s 17 awards. A mix of fierce competitors, driven coaches and volunteers who work so that others can play were all given their moment in the spotlight. With more entries this year than ever before, the nominees were drawn from all corners of the district, from all age groups and from a diverse array of sports. Football and rugby, trampolining, golf, sailing, swimming, squash, tennis, walking netball and even a pub pool team which won a national trophy in Blackpool were represented. Alton and Petersfield led the field of winners with five each, while Four Marks, Whitehill & Bordon, Ropley, Horndean, Liphook and Bentworth also produced winners.

Your guidance will help us get our tone right, be as efficient as possible and could help us raise thousands for the National Park in the future. If you are willing to volunteer, we would be very grateful if you would complete this online survey with your preferred time and contact details: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ SDFocusGroups 54

Cllr Julie Butler, EHDC’s Deputy leader and Portfolio Holder for Customer Relations said: “It was a truly inspirational evening and everyone went away uplifted by what they had seen and heard. I want to thank Roger and Ben for their spellbinding contributions with memories and anecdotes. Roger hosted the evening with warmth and wit and Ben left us all speechless with his inspirational tale of endurance and self-motivation. “It was incredibly moving to see so many people from all over East Hampshire and from so many sporting disciplines each with a brilliant story to tell. This event grows by the year and we look forward to the next one with keen anticipation.” www.easthants.gov.uk

SOLENT GARAGE DOORS THE PREMIER GARAGE DOOR SPECIALIST

GARAGE DOORS SUPPLIED AND FITTED • MAINTENANCE FREE DOORS • UP AND OVER DOORS • ROLLER DOORS • SIDE HUNG DOORS • SECTIONAL DOORS • AUTOMATION TO NEW AND EXISTING DOORS • REPAIRS: SPRINGS, CABLES, LOCKS, ETC FOR ALL MAKES OF DOOR

VAT FREE ON ALL NEW DOORS

Tel: 01489 786273 Mobile: 07500 926558

solentgaragedoors@yahoo.com www.solentgarage-doors.co.uk UNIT 5A BRIDGE FARM INDUSTRIES, CURBRIDGE, SO30 2HB

ROPLEY SHOWROOM Searle & Taylor House The Dene, Ropley Hampshire SO24 0BH T: 01962 850 851

D E SI G N • I N NOVATIO N • CR AF TMANS H IP

w w w.se a r le - t a y lor.co. uk

WINCHESTER SHOWROOM 19 Southgate Street Winchester Hampshire SO23 9EB T: 01962 850300