Meon Valley 32 by Mark Tubb

Meon Valley

Cover image by Rachel Hudson (see page 46)

FORUM MAY 2018 • ISSUE 32 • 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

White & Guard launch fabulous new homes... Waltham Chase | Shirrell Heath Call in to our friendly offices in Bishops Waltham or Hedge End and discover the wide array of properties currently availible in these highly attractive, brand new developments. Don’t miss out. Arrange a viewing:

01489 893946

WALTHAM CHASE SO32 2LR

National strength, locally delivered.

Stunning Show Home now open • A superbly designed collection of 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes in the sought after Hampshire village of Waltham Chase • Get Help to Buy* and help to sell – make your move with 5% deposit and 75% mortgage • Plus Help to Buy can be used in conjunction with Assisted Move‡ – we could sell your current home and pay the fees

Book your exclusive appointment to view

HUNTERS GREEN

For more information please call or visit our website

3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes from £360,000

01329 655 099

Sandy Lane, SO32 2LR

lindenhomes.co.uk/huntersgreen

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. Credit is secured against your home. Photograph and computer generated

images show typical Linden homes. Interior may include optional upgrades or extras available at additional cost. *Subject to status, Help to Buy Terms & Conditions and available on selected properties in England only. Eligible applicants will be offered an equity loan up to a maximum of 20% of the purchase price (based on the open market value). Applicants are required to fund at least 80% of the purchase price by means of a conventional mortgage, savings/deposit where required. The equity loan is provided by the HCA and held as a second charge. This offer is not available in conjunction with any other promotion. Full details will be provided on request. ‡Assisted Move is available on selected new Linden homes only. Acceptance is at our sole discretion. We reserve the right to refuse to agree to Assisted Move and we are under no obligation to give reasons why. We will instruct local estate agents to undertake an independent valuation and marketing advice for your current home before we make you a proposal on a marketing price for your home. The realistic sale price may be lower than an initial marketing price and is based on a sale within a specified timescale fixed by us. Reservation fees may vary. For full terms and conditions please visit lindenhomes.co.uk/schemes/assisted-move. Price and details correct at time of going to press.

Find out more at: whiteandguard.com

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 2 | M AY

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

22, 32, 46, 54

06 Culture FORUM PUBLICATIONS LTD 11 BROAD STREET, ALRESFORD HAMPSHIRE, SO24 9AR TEL: 01962 735137

JUNE COPY DEADLINE MAY 14th 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, 2018 * Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household

The diverse theatre, music and arts and crafts of Hampshire

21 Professional

From photographers to solicitors - every professional service you need

34 Education

Find local schools and educational experts

07 Garden

34 Food & Drink

20 Features

38 Wellbeing

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

Claire Thurlow, Butterfly Revival, Hampshire People, Market Square Durley Bear Hunt

24, 26, 28 44

Eat out, stay in: food, drink and dining in Hampshire

Looking after your health and yourself!

47 Home

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

42 Leisure

Discover local events and days out in Hampshire

award winning kitchen makeovers

After Makeover

Upto 50% cheaper than a new fitted kitchen Mrs Ward tasked Happy Kitchens with a makeover whilst incorporating major changes. Ben came up with a beautiful design and costed this kitchen at just under half of the quoted costs, from brands such as Wren and Magnet. Not only did it cost less the quality offered was much higher, hand made units and worktops fabricated to order. All this made Mrs Ward a Happy Customer. 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 May

Houzz 2017 and 2018 customer service award

MAY 5 MAY

Mark Jennings: The Art of Guitar Virtuoso Classics Playing Bach, Albeniz,Tarrega and Rodrigo, on guitar.Tickets: £10., available from: 01329 833299. Refreshments available. From 7pm at St Nicholas' Church,Wickham, PO17 6HR

5 MAY Scout Plant Sale Red Lion Street, Bishops Waltham, from 9:00am - 1:00pm, in aid of 1st Bishops Waltham Scout Group. We usually have a variety of vegetable plants, annuals, shrubs, and hanging baskets, which are all grown and donated by the local scout group.

5 & 6 MAY All for one and one for all! Fun for all the family with The Three Musketeers by Karen Letts The award winning Titchfield Youth Theatre brings Alexandre Dumas’ classic tale to life in a new adaptation that will bring all the laughs, excitement and fencing to Titchfield. Don’t miss out as the Three Musketeers set out to foil the dastardly Cardinal. It is guaranteed to provide fun for all the family – and don’t forget under 10’s go free! The performances will be held in the Acorn Studio on Saturday May 5th (7.30pm) and a matinee performance starting at 2.30pm on Sunday May 6th.For more information, please go to http://titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com/ or contact our Box Office on 01329 556156. For more on the Youth Theatre visit www. titchfieldyouththeatre.com

10 MAY

Swanmore Amateur Dramatic Society: The Ladykillers by Graham Lineham Swanmore Amateur Dramatic Society presents The Ladykillers by Graham Lineham. All tickets: £8, call 01489 893639, 01489 894955 or 01489 896182 or collect from Barnaby's Community Coffee Shop on Saturdays from 10am - 12pm. At Swanmore Village Hall, curtain up at 7.30pm. www.swanmoreamateurdramaticsociety.co.uk

12 MAY Quiz Night In Swanmore Paterson Centre from 7.30pm. Tables of 8 if possible.Tickets: £12.50 to include a selection of Italian antipasti and desserts provided by Piccola Roma in Bishops Waltham. Bring your own drinks. Organised by Swanmore Twinning Association. For entries and further details please contact: Lorna Neill on (01489) 896031 or email lornajneill@hotmail.com.

19 MAY Droxford Village Community Royal Wedding Village Party At Droxford Recreation Ground, Opposite Droxford Junior School, Droxford, SO32 3QR. From 3pm. Pimp our Pavilion (PoP) is planning a village celebration of the Royal Wedding.To include: sandwiches, cake, Prosecco, tea/coffee bar and TV screen (for football fans) and live music.Tickets available from the Post Office or 1 Union Lane. Proceeds towards the refurbishment of the Pavilion. £15.00 per ticket or £30.00 for a family.

6 MAY Cigarette Card Fair & Auction Winchester and Solent Branch of the Cartophilic Society are holding a fair at Botley Market Hall, SO30 2EA from 10am. An auction of cigarette and trade cards (200+ lots) will commmence at 2pm. Free admission. Further information from Secretary Keith Miller 01243 865147

26 MAY Newtown Church Fete To be opened by Reverend Tim Daykin, Sunday show presenter on BBC Radio Solent. Attractions will include: Grand Draw, Stalls, Sideshows, Ice Creams, Home Made Teas, Barbecue and Beer Tent, Children's Craft and Pottery Painting, Face Painting,Treasure Hunt, Cuddly Duck Fishing, Donkey Rides, Pet Farm, Bouncy Castle,The Arena Cafe, Lucky Dip, Pimms Tent. Starts 1pm at Meonwood, PO17 6JZ.

JUNE 1 JUNE New Music Makers present A World of Songs From 7.30pm at KCC Hedge End, SO30 4BZ. Tickets: £10, concessions: £8. Available from www.newmusicmakers.com,The Flower Garden or 01489 781836.

2 JUNE

6 MAY Charity Garden Fair At Wintershill Hall, Durley, SO32 2AL. 10am4pm, Entrance £5, children under 14 free. Free Parking. 60 +specialist stalls. Birds of Prey Display, Children's Corner, Hog Roast Ask the Expert Andy McIndoe. Homemade refreshments. www.bishops-waltham-gardenfair.org. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook

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

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

What's On

26 MAY

20 MAY Alresford Watercress Festival 2018 From 10am - 4pm in Alresford Town Centre.This nationally acclaimed annual festival will bring together thousands of visitors from the local community and from far and wide to celebrate watercress - the superb locally grown, delicious ands versatile crop www.watercressfestival.org

23 MAY Waltham Chase Flower Club Open Afternoon Open afternoon at Waltham Chase Village Hall. Charity stall theme—unwanted gifts. 2.15pm start.

West Meon Parish Council Church Fete Come and enjoy an afternoon of jazz, cream teas, hot dogs, Pimms and side shows including bouncy castle. Stalls include: cakes, plants, toys, household, books, preserves, tombola and bottles. There will also be a raffle with many great local prizes to be won. £2 entry. Free parking and dogs on leads welcome. From 2pm - 4pm at West Meon House,West Meon, Petersfield, GU32 1JG.

17 JUNE All Saints Jazz Afternoon – A Fete With A Difference At The Mackinlay's Garden, Cross Keys,The Cross, East Meon from 2pm - 4.30pm. Come and enjoy an afternoon listening to jazz.With afternoon teas, together with stalls including games, cakes and produce. Entry £2 – kids free.

CU LT U R E I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

Midsummer Music and Theatre in Bishop's Waltham BE ENTERTAINED THIS JUNE BY SOME BRILLIANT MUSICAL AND THEATRICAL EVENTS IN THE CHARMING HISTORIC MARKET TOWN OF BISHOP'S WALTHAM Come and Sing Workshop

Fancy exercising your lungs and having fun at the same time? Then come to our Come And Sing day at St. Peter's Church on Saturday 16th June from 10.00 to 4.00pm.You'll join with about 50 other singers to create a choir learning songs from popular musicals led by a professional choirmaster. Ability to read music not essential. Come and Sing Workshop tickets are £10, with an optional lunch for £5.

Come and Sing Concert

The finale of the singing day is the evening concert starting at 6.30pm for singers' friends and families and the general public to come along and enjoy, also at St. Peter's Church. Come and Sing Concert tickets are £5.

The Railway Children

Lounge on the grass with your picnic in the picturesque grounds of the Palace Ruins from 1.00pm on the afternoon of Saturday 30th June and be entertained from 2.00pm by professional touring company Heartbreak Theatre. They will be performing their adaptation of 'The Railway Children', that much-loved story of the adventures of three enterprising children. Living by the railway line, Bobbie, Peter and Phyllis watch the trains and make unexpected friendships. There is the old gentleman who catches the 9.15 train and helps them solve the mystery surrounding their father, and the Russian immigrant who teaches them that compassion and understanding cross all boundaries. Suitable for all the family! The Railway Children tickets are £12 for adults, £7 for a Child (5 – 15 yrs) or £32 for a family of 4 including at least 1 Child. Online from www.heartbreakproductions.co.uk

Much Ado About Nothing

In the evening of 30th June, from 6.00pm, Rain or Shine Theatre Company will be back at the Palace. This year the performance (at 7.30pm) will be their 20th Century adaptation of Shakespeare's 'Much Ado About Nothing'. November 1918. The Great War has ended, the British military forces are returning home. Don Pedro and his comrades are coming at last to Messina (a little known village on the edge of the Cotswolds) where they are met by friends, old and new. From the dastardly Don John, to the daft Sergeant Dogberry, 'Much Ado About Nothing' will bring you revellers, rascals and romance. Featuring the very best of the Bard’s wit and wisdom, the fiery Beatrice gives Benedick, the bachelor, a battle of words to remember, and true love is at its sweetest as Claudio falls for his darling Hero. Dig out your hampers and load up your picnic bags, as the people of Messina find love, scupper mischievous plots and celebrate new found peace across the world! Much Ado About Nothing tickets are £18 for adults, £15 for concessions and £6 for 5 – 15 yrs. Credit card ticket 03306 600541 (standard call charges). Bring your own rugs or chairs for these outdoor events. Hot /cool drinks and ice creams will be on sale. Paper tickets for all events are available from Boutique ME in Bishop's Waltham High Street. More information from BW Festival's website www. bwfestival.co.uk

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 2 | M AY

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

CU LT U R E I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

Culture

AN EVENING WITH GREG DYKE: FILM, TV, FOOTBALL, BBC & MORE FRIDAY 1ST JUNE - 8PM

reg Dyke has enjoyed a varied and fascinating career, during which he has made successful TV programmes, been a Director of Manchester United, Chairman of Brentford Football Club, Director General of the BBC, Chairman of the Football Association, the British Film Institute, the London Film School, and long term resident of Broughton.

This event will offer the audience the opportunity to ask Greg their own questions. All proceeds will go to the Broughton Village Hall refurbishment fund. Friday, June 1st at 8pm. Cash bar open from 7.15pm and afterwards at Broughton Village Hall. Tickets are £12, in advance only. On sale now at West View Stores, Broughton, and Broughton Crafts, Stockbridge or by email reservation with payment by bank transfer to info@broughtonlearning.org.uk.

A DELIGHTFUL EVENT IN THE GARDEN WITH JACK SAVORETTI - SATURDAY 30TH JUNE - 6PM - 11PM

We have two family weekend tickets to The Daily Mail Chalke Valley History Festival to give away.

ome and enjoy evening in the garden with Jack Savoretti. Beautiful setting to listen to wonderful music. Bring a picnic or enjoy local food stalls and cash bar, in the beautiful surroundings of Bereleigh Estate.

Bring chairs, rugs and waterproofs if wet! Entry by Ticket only. No glass or dogs. Disabled access available. Under 16's to be accompanied by an adult. All cars will access the site from the A272 at Lower Borden, no vehicular access through East Meon. For more information and to book tickets visit: www.universe.com/events/an-evening-in-the-garden-withjack-savoretti-tickets-east-meon-Q0TG34?ref=universediscover. To be held at Bereleigh House, East Meon, Petersfield GU32 1PH from 6pm - 11pm on Saturday 30th June.

These allow 2 adults and up to 3 children into the festival for free on 30 June or 1 July, to attend living history activities, listen to the ‘Live History Live’ talks, see the air show, get access to the stands and stalls, and go to the party on Saturday evening! To enter the draw to win a family ticket, please email ahipcoxpr@btconnect.com with ‘Chalke Valley Tickets’ in the subject line. * The draw closes on 1 June 2018. Tickets to the literary talks are not included and will need to be booked and paid for separately.

P R OMOT ION ISSU E 3 2 | M AY

Garden

LAWN MOWING MADE EASY – OR AT LEAST A LITTLE EASIER!

How often is lawn mowing doing more harm that you might think?

awn mowing is one of those garden tasks that many people think they can do themselves. Some get it right and do a wonderful job; others are regularly getting it wrong. Perhaps you’d be surprised to learn how much harm you can do to your lawn by not getting the

basics right.

the height again in the dry hot weeks of summer when the longer grass will protect the soil from drying out and capture more dew overnight to water the lawn. Then, lowering again with the lush growth that comes in autumn. Finally you want to be going into winter with longer grass, better able to survive the bad weather. Humans are by nature creatures of habit. Think about your day and the things you do regularly, the same way each time. We get ready for bed in the same order or drive to work the same route. It makes things easier for us as we don’t have to think about the mundane stuff. We just do it. Most people are the same with their lawn mowing. Rarely do they vary their approach or direction of mow. They start at point A and finish at point B. As you mow your lawn the weight of the mower and the forward motion pushes the grass leaves in the direction you are mowing. Over time the grass begins to lean over this way making it harder to get a clean cut.Varying the direction of mow helps to promote healthy grass growth and makes for a more attractive lawn. It also reduces the chance of ruts forming from the wheels of the mower pressing into the turf repeatedly. Now to look at mowing frequency; let’s face it, we are all busy people. Most of us work hard all week and often hard on the weekend too. Speak to those lucky enough to be retired and they usually tell you they’ve never been busier. When we are busy or tired there is a tendency not to get everything done on time. The problem with mowing is that the grass just keeps on growing. Miss a mow and it’s longer than ever.

By now you might be wondering; just what it is that you need to know before mowing your lawn? When it comes to lawn mowing there are really three main considerations; height, direction of cut and frequency. Let’s look at each of them in turn. Mowing height is a fine balance between keeping the grass tidy and looking superb, along with allowing the grass to have enough leaf to photosynthesise and remain healthy. Plants use the green pigment in their leaves, along with sunlight, to synthesise nutrients from carbon dioxide and water. Remove too much leaf and you are reducing the ability of the grass plants in your lawn to create food. Weakening the grasses and allowing diseases to take hold. The grass dies back leaving bare patches where weed seeds and moss spores can settle, germinate and spoil the appearance of your lawn. By all means mow your lawn short, but don’t do it suddenly. Only ever reduce the mowing height gradually over time. If you want to mow short then ensure growing conditions are right. Warm but not too hot. Moist, but not too much rain, and of course adequate fertiliser. Speak to a lawn care professional to ensure your lawn is receiving the treatments it needs to keep it healthy before you reduce its chances of it feeding itself. Ideally you should be varying the cut height throughout the growing season. Starting high as grass growth slowly begins in spring. Lowering as the growing season warms up and growth is more vigorous. Raising

As the grass plants grow taller the stems of the plants extended into your cutting area. When you do finally catch up you are inevitably taking off too much leaf. Cutting into the stem of the grass plant shocks the plant. Making it less able to recover from the mow and more susceptible to diseases and die-back. Plus the lawn looks scalped and untidy. Mowing can feel like a never-ending job and grass growth can be unforgiving. Lawn care professionals have access to growth suppressants. Applied to your lawn they reduce growing height and encourage more compact, dense growth. They also encourage root growth, creating a more drought tolerant lawn. Speak to a lawn care professional to find out more. Mowing is a Marmite kind of job; those that love it really love it and those that don’t thoroughly hate it. After all, if you work hard all week, or if you are at a stage in life where hard work is behind you, then maybe there is something else you’d rather be doing than mowing the lawn. Create some you-time and leave your lawn care to the professionals.You might be surprised by how affordable a professional lawn care plan is and I’m certain you’ll be impressed by the professional results. 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

G A R DEN I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

PROMOTION ISSUE 32 | MAY

Star of the Show is Good Design

t’s that time of year again – the Chelsea Flower Show. In all its glory, this annual event provides us with a feast of inspiring garden designs cleverly depicting how skill and imagination will bring to life that stretch of land outside your kitchen or sitting room door. It is true that many of the designs we see at Chelsea are not practical or suitable for our own mere mortal of a garden, however, every design is inspiring and on our return home we long to find that little something that will make our own outdoor space special too. Garden Design has never been more popular, yet most of us still universally believe it is ‘something anyone can do’. In some ways, it is true. Many gardens are quite breathtakingly beautiful where a designer has not set foot inside the garden gate. Mostly, these gardens have evolved over time and sit very happily cheek by jowl within whatever environment they have grown up in. This is fine for those who are happy to potter and let the years, toil and ultimate experience take care of how their gardens will look a couple of decades later. The rest of humanity needs a helping – or a designer’s hand! – to obtain quickly and effortlessly a captivating garden. This is because most of us lead very busy lives and we want someone else to create for us what we don’t have time for ourselves. Also, great garden design truly enhances the exterior of

our homes and can add not only value to our properties, it can also greatly increase the chances of a quicker sale. Furthermore, most of us want a garden with the minimum of maintenance and to achieve the balance between something that is attractive and requires little attention, needs skilful planning. Today, great garden design needs to depict a lifestyle that reflects stylish 21st century living where the trend for expanding our living areas beyond the four walls of our homes, comes complete with outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, elaborate lighting and all weather garden sofas. Garden design has come a long way since Chelsea first opened its doors over a hundred years ago when it was primarily a flower show and the show gardens were the poor cousin. Perhaps it will one day go full circle and in the meantime, if you want a truly stunning lifestyle garden, you need the talented eye of a good designer.

Norman Hambrook Managing Director Hambrooks www.hambrooks.co.uk

Est. 48 years

Experts in your Garden

Titchfield

Garden Design Centre

Every Garden Tells a Story

16 Show Gardens • Design Studio • Coffee Courtyard Specialists in High Quality Design • Build • Maintenance • Planting Plans • Border Makeovers OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Mon-Sat 8am-5pm Sun 10am-4pm

Call today on 01489 572285 • Find us at PO14 4PR • hambrooks.co.uk

Fox Garden M Sales • Parts •

All products started and tested prior to handover. O

Authorised Honda Miimo

OUR PRICE: FROM £1499 Miimo is a clever robotic mower that is completely autonomous and can look after your lawn without any assistance. Powered by batteries, Miimo is capable of recharging itself and adapting its working sessions when it suits you. Miimo can help you achieve a perfect lawn while having more time to do the things you like.

SPRING PR

£400 off Honda

Honda UMK 425 LE Strimmer SPECIAL OFFER - : £340 • 25cc 4 Stroke Honda Engine • D-loop Handle • 3 Tooth Blade & Nylon Spool • Double Shoulder Comfort Harness • Comes With Goggles • Weighs 6.2KG • 5 Year Warranty for Domestic Use • 1 Year Warranty for Professional Use

Tel: 01489 893311 • www.foxgardenmachinery.co.uk

Machinery Ltd

Est. 1962

Services • Hire

Offering fantastic after-sales services and hiring options

Honda Dealer Honda Izy HRG 416 PK OUR PRICE: £299

• 41cm (16") cutting width • 160cc Honda Engine • 5 Year Warranty for Domestic Use • Push Mower • Steel Deck • 50 Litre Grass Bag

ROMOTION

a Lawn Tractors

Honda UMK 435 UE Strimmer OUR PRICE: £450

• 35cc 4 Stroke Honda Engine • Bike Type Handle • 3 Tooth Blade & Nylon Spool • Double Shoulder Comfort Harness • Comes With Goggles • Weighs 7.6KG • 5 Year Warranty for Domestic Use • 1 Year Warranty for Professional Use

Fox Garden Machinery, Station Road, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1DH

G A R DEN I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

Garden

EAST MEON GARDENING CLUB NEWS: A RECENT TALK BY PROFESSOR PETER GREGORY

individual rocks with which they ‘interlock’. Japanese gardens always include beautiful acers and flowing water. Hepatica is a genus of herbaceous perennials in the buttercup family and usually displayed with other plants. However, in 2016 an exhibitor had a stand which displayed a wide selection of only these plants. Apparently it proved extremely stressful for the grower, but when asked by the Judges if he would do it again, he replied…”Oh no, I could never put the plants through that again…” However, the exhibitor was awarded The President’s Award To conclude his lecture Professor Gregory described how in 2016, to coincide with the 100 year anniversary of The East Malling Research Centre, he ‘excavated’ a dying Apple Tree. The root system was meticulously teased out of the soil over a six week period, bundled up, transported, ‘un-tied’ and displayed on special poles at the Flower Show, the purpose being to examine and show how the roots took in water and nutrients. The display was so spectacular that it won a Silver Gilt Medal. The evening concluded with an extensive question and answer session. Written by David Lewin, Chairman

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS PLANT?

imalayan balsam may look pretty but it’s an invasive species which out-competes native species and, if left uncontrolled, will spread throughout our water courses and beyond. During spring and early summer National Park rangers and volunteers will be out working hard to clear it.

Professor Peter Gregory (L) & David Lewin, Chairman (R)

rofessor Peter Gregory’s Talk at East Meon Garden Club on Monday 9th April 2018 was well attended with 52 members present who were given an intriguing presentation of what goes on behind the scenes at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. He introduced the evening by reminding everyone that the RHS is a charitable trust with its purpose “to inspire passion and excellence in the science, art and practice of horticulture..” Having become interested in gardening aged 10 he started growing sweet peas and chrysanthemums for pocket money, but then realised he could earn more by putting sprigs of Gypsophila in with them and selling as bunches!! Having had a long history with Reading University, he is now on the Councli of the RHS and Chairman of the Science Committee. The Chelsea Flower Show takes place each year on the ten acre playing fields in front of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea.The grass is taken up each for the Show and then replaced later so that the teams building the show gardens, which cost from £250,000 to half a million pounds, can be constructed over a six week period. Judging nowadays follows a much more rigorous and objective course with points for various criteria including the stated claim for the garden. However the Judges sometimes do not agree with each other so there is another group of senior judges called ‘Moderators’ who scrutinise the marks given and changes may be made accordingly. The Flower Show opens on the Monday but is for members of the Royal Family and celebrities only, with the evening open to large businesses.Tuesday and Wednesday are Members Only.Thursday, Friday and now Saturday are Public Days and as soon as the Show finishes, work on planning the show for the following year starts. Although occasionally there has been a shortage of Show Gardens there is always a waiting list for exhibitors within the Floral Marquee where there is incredible pressure to present something new and maintain standards.The orchids in the Floral Marquee are flown in from Thailand the day before the show opens and arranged overnight! Professor Gregory also explained how the Japanese ‘Artisan’ garden followed Japanese tradition showcasing the importance of moss. These ‘clumps’ are in fact individual plants grown to exactly match the small

The impressive sounding GB Non-native Species Secretariat (NSS) describes Himalayan balsam, Impatiens glandulifera, as a ‘tall, attractive, annual herb with explosive seed heads’. It can grow to over 2m high and was introduced into the UK by the ornamental gardeners of the early 19th century at the same time as other, at-the-time exotic, species such as Japanese knotweed and giant hogweed.That’s where the problem started. Each Himalayan balsam plant can produce up to 800 small seeds which are light enough to carry up to 7 metres on the wind as well as in the water.With their ‘exploding’ seed heads it’s not surprising that they soon made their escape out into the wild.Today the plant is widespread. In the South Downs you’re likely to spot it along river and stream banks or in damp woodland. Around this time of year you might spot National Park rangers and volunteer rangers out clearing Himalayan balsam – or as they put it ‘balsam bashing’. Himalayan balsam is listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 which means that it’s an offence to plant or allow it to grow in the wild. It’s estimated that together invasive non-native species, such as Himalayan balsam, present a financial cost to the UK economy totalling some £2 billion.To tackle the problem the government need to determine where the plants are and you can help. Download the free PlantTracker app (www.planttracker.org.uk) to easily identify and submit photos and locations of 18 invasive plant species, including Himalayan balsam. www.southdowns.gov.uk

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 OAK PORCHES, GARDEN ROOMS & 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

SPRING IS HERE! SUPERB QUALITY GARDEN SHEDS, DECORATIVE FENCE PANELS, AND GARDEN FURNITURE. VISIT US OR CALL OUR SALES TEAM FOR DETAILS

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

G A R DEN I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

Garden

Shiplap to ensure a sturdy finish & long lasting product. This makes an ideal investment for somebody looking to keep chickens, and some options have a detachable run. Animal housing from £150 + Vat

EQUESTRIAN FENCING & TIMBER CAN HELP WITH YOUR UPCOMING GARDENING PROJECTS

For more information please get in touch Tel: 01329 835100 www.equestrianfencing.com High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath, SO32 2JR

hen it comes to garden projects, Equestrian Fencing and Timber Ltd range of railway sleepers are the perfect product to transform the look and feel of your garden, no matter what shape or size. Sleepers have become popular for all sorts of garden projects, attractive and cost sensitive, railway sleepers are the perfect hard landscaping material. The aged wood gives an aesthetically appealing and natural aged quality to your garden. Or Newly sawn sleepers on the other hand are available in pressure treated softwood or French oak as a durable hardwood option. The Oak sleepers appear more natural and as they weather, vary in colour from light brown to silver/grey.Very popular uses for garden sleepers is raised vegetable beds, retaining walls, steps and edging. Reclaimed Sleepers from £22.00+Vat Treated Softwood from £18.00 +Vat Oak Sleepers £21.60 + Vat

SWANMORE OPEN GARDENS: SATURDAY 30TH JUNE & SUNDAY 1ST JULY, 1PM - 6PM

n the edge of the Meon Valley, in the heart of the Winchester, Portsmouth and Southampton triangle, our delightful village will open a number of its gardens to visitors. The gardens vary from small intimate village gardens, to large country house gardens. In addition to our old favourites, there are one or two that have not opened recently and all have, of course, changed as the years have passed. Most of our gardens are within easy walking distance of our start/ finish point outside the Paterson Centre in Swanmore. A free shuttle bus service will be provided. Teas, coffees and homemade cakes will be available from the Paterson Centre all afternoon. There will be plants for sale and a plant creche will avoid the need to carry them around - just give them to the minibus driver and collect them from The Paterson Centre.

Our ‘hand finished’ furniture will suit any space in your garden, so take a seat in the sun and relax. British Made and backed by a 15 year Treat Right Warranty against decay and fungal attack, piece of mind is guaranteed.

Tickets are £6.00 adults per day, with free entry for one or two accompanied under 15s per adult. Entry includes use of the hop-onhop-off minibus. Tickets are available from 12.30pm at The Paterson Centre, SO32 2PA. Approximately 7 gardens will be open, but the total may vary from day to day - please contact the organisers if you need exact numbers.

And what about Poultry Houses from Equestrain Fencing & Timber Ltd? Our Pressure Treated Poultry Houses are made using top quality

Contact the organisers: Phone: 01489 892 750 Email: jsharpe@talktalk.net

D E S I G N C O N S U LTA N T S Award winning landscape design and construction from a small environmentally friendly professional local company of skilled craftsmen

G A R DEN I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

Patios • Paths • Decks • Drives Gates • Gardens • Gazebos Fencing • Pergolas • Trelliage Water Features • Planting • Lawns For more information, please do get in touch:

Tel: 01329 835414 • Mob: 07767 401516 www.jardin-design.co.uk

The Studio, Forester Road, Soberton, Hampshire, SO32 3QG

Mud Island Garden Centre 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 BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND Opening Hours: 9am - 5pm

Tel: 01329 834407 www.mudislandnurseries.co.uk Find us on Facebook @mudislandgardencentre SOUTHWICK ROAD, WICKHAM, HAMPSHIRE PO17 6JF

F EAT U R E I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

To a Skylark

BY CLAIRE THURLOW

fter the Beast from the East and endless grey days, it felt like Spring would never come. April may bring showers (and lambs, of course), but clocks go forward and everywhere I look are green shoots and unfurling buds. I start to notice the dawn chorus and by May we’re at peak bird-song. How can I possibly choose a favourite? The melodious blackbird who serenades me from the garage roof? Or the friendly robin who chirrups from the holly hedge? No, for my money the most talented vocalist is often impossible to see, but certainly makes itself heard – the skylark. Milder weather and increased daylight mean I have no excuse for not leaving my sedentary desk-life for a walk around the village. Following narrow lanes and bridleways, I pass woodlands and fields of emerging crops, and if I’m lucky, it’s in (or rather, over) the latter that I’ll spot a skylark. It’s predominantly a farmland bird, seeking open countryside – fields of cereal or grass, but it’s also partial to heathland, sanddunes and or grassy spaces such as golf courses or airfields. I couldn’t give the skylark many marks for looks. Size-wise it comes in somewhere between a sparrow and a starling.The brown, streaky plumage with buff underparts is non-descript but does provide camouflage against roaming predators, a necessity for a ground-nesting bird.The crest on its head, which it raises when alarmed, is the only feature to detract from the skylark’s plainness. But you don’t have to be handsome to attract a mate! Male skylarks compete for territories and female attention by aerial singing.They take off almost vertically, ascend as much as 300 metres and let rip with an amazing outpouring of song.There are reports of these performances lasting anywhere from five minutes to an hour.When its wings need rest, the skylark may

continue to sing on a handy fence post. It’s a rolling, endless flurry of notes, which in his ‘Ode to a Skylark’ Shelley described as ‘joyous, clear, and fresh.’ Standing beside a field of oil-seed rape on a misty morning, I’d say the poet was spoton with his description. I can enjoy the song, but the singer is invisible in the cloud. Life isn’t easy for the skylark, and its numbers have declined rapidly since the 1970s, giving it red status on the list of endangered British birds. It likes to nest in open fields where the vegetation is no taller than 60cm, but autumn-sown crops have grown too tall by the time breeding season comes around. It will also nest in grass, but mowing for silage brings more risks for the young, and a pair of skylarks may have to try two or three times in a season to raise a successful brood. Their diet includes seeds of grass, weeds and insects which are destroyed by herbicides and insecticides.The skylark’s natural habitat seems at odds with modern farming, despite efforts of many farmers to accommodate it. As a gardener trying to balance pest-control with support of wildlife, I can sympathise. Organic practises and set-aside have helped, although the skylark is averse to the left-aside margins of fields close to high hedgerows – possibly because of predators. Bare patches in the middle of fields, so-called skylark ‘plots’ have been tried with limited success. However, where landowners and farmers grow crops for winter game birds such as pheasant and partridge, this has also provided food for the skylark. Hopefully, the outlook will improve for this marvellous bird, and even if you don’t see one on a walk, enjoy the song. According to an old gamekeeper’s tale, if you see a skylark flying high early in the morning, then it’s going to be a beautiful day.

FINE ART AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS

FINE ART, ASIAN ART, ANTIQUES, INTERIORS & COLLECTABLES AUCTION Tuesday 15th & Wednesday 16th May

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

Viewing: Thursday 10th, 12 - 5pm Friday 11th, 10am - 5pm Saturday 12th, 10am - 2pm Monday 14th, 10am - 5pm Sale mornings from 8.30am

G A R DEN P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 3 2 | M AY

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

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

ADVERTISING OFFER ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE FOR AS LITTLE AS

Â£60

PER MONTH

Now covering the Meon Valley Sales, Lettings and Property Management

(PLUS VAT, MINIMUM 6 MONTH BOOKING FOR PRICE SHOWN)

For more information

01962 735137 stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

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

COMMU N IT Y

Community

WINCHESTER NAMED IN THE 2018 HALIFAX RURAL AREAS QUALITY OF LIFE SURVEY

P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 32 | M AY

MEON VALLEY LIONS CHARITY WALK

eon Valley Lions Club are organising a sponsored walk along the old Meon Valley railway line from Wickham to West Meon, now known as The Meon Valley Trail, a distance of 10 miles each way or both, with a childrens walk of 1 mile from Wickham to Mislingford for U12’s, with transport back to the start. Charity Walk along the Meon Valley Trail starts at 0900-1800 Saturday 12th May 2018. Children's walk to start at 11am.

We have invited the following charities to have walkers to raise monies for their causes and needs: Homestart – Meon Valley Fareham Rainbow Centre Rose Road Association Rowans Hospice Prostate Cancer Support

Transport will be available to return participants to either start. Entry costs £3 for adults and £1 for children U12 to include transport, water at start/finish and check points, first aid and maps. Entry fee to be paid on the day. If you wish to walk for any of the charities please contact via Just Giving page for that charity and add your name. A conventional sponsorship form and information leaflet is available at the bottom of this page: www.meonvalleylionsclub. org.uk/events/lionscharitywalk.html. Bring the form with you on the day.

For more information about the sponsors

Homestart: www.homestart-meonvalley.org.uk Fareham Rainbow Centre: www.rainbowcentre.org Rose Road Association: kimbartonsmith@roseroad.org.uk Rowans Hospice: www.rowanshospice.co.uk Prostate Cancer Support: www.pcaso.org Any queries contact Pete Meadows at pete.meadows@ hotmail.co.uk or visit www.meonvalleylionsclub.org. uk/events/lionscharitywalk.html

inchester has been named 4th in the 2018 Halifax 'Rural Areas Quality of Life' survey. The annual survey assesses the UK's rural communities against a wide range of factors including, residents' health, employment, crime rates and education. It also considers home size, broadband speed, pollution, weather and number of leisure places. Winchester was the highest ranking place in the South, with only the Orkney Islands in Scotland, Rutland in the East Midlands and Wychavon in the West Midlands scoring better. www.winchester.gov.uk

Nigel Chamberlain & 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 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

Bishop’s Waltham | 4 bedrooms Guide Price £635,000 • • • •

Beautifully restored, spacious cottage 4 bedrooms, shower room, bathroom Sitting room with open fire Cottage style kitchen with range style cooker • Family room, dining room, utility, WC, garden room with wood burner, study • Detached garage and summer house

Homes for life in the Meon Valley With six offices across the Meon Valley – including our Bishop’s Waltham branch in Cross Street – Pearsons offers unrivalled coverage for marketing properties in this area. Our friendly teams of can offer advice on all aspects of buying, selling, letting and renting property.

Offices throughout Hampshire | pearsons.com

01489 660860 Contact us for a free sales or lettings valuation of your property. bishopswaltham@pearsons.com

SERVICE | MARKETING | E XPERIENCE

F EAT U R E I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

Butterfly revival dashed by wet, gloomy weather BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION AND UNITED KINGDOM BUTTERFLY MONITORING SCHEME

wo declining butterflies suffered their worst year on record in 2017 after hopes of a butterfly revival were dashed by a chilly snap in spring and a gloomy, wet summer, a study has revealed. Grayling and Grizzled Skipper recorded their lowest numbers since records began as difficult weather conditions caused problems for some of the UK’s species. There had been hopes that UK butterflies would bounce back after the summer of 2016, the fourth worst on record. And although butterfly numbers last year were up on 2016, they were still way below average with 2017 being the seventh worst year on record, the annual UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme (UKBMS) led by Butterfly Conservation, the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (CEH), British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) and Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) revealed. Grizzled Skipper and Grayling had their worst year on record for the second year running. Grizzled Skipper was down 9% compared to 2016 and the population has now more than halved since the 1970s. Grayling declined by 6% compared to 2016; its numbers have shrunk by 63% over the last decade. The threatened Dingy Skipper saw numbers fall by 22% compared to 2016 and the rare Marsh Fritillary experienced a decline of 12% over the same period. But it wasn’t just rare species that struggled – the Large White one of the UK’s most well-known and widespread butterflies - saw its numbers tumble by 19%.This common butterfly is now also in a state of long-term decline. There had been hopes for a good butterfly year as many spring species emerged earlier than usual following a warm start to 2017. Butterflies need warm, dry weather during their flight periods in order to feed and mate. But a cold snap at the end of April saw other spring species such as the Grizzled Skipper and Duke of Burgundy struggle. The second half of the summer was cloudier and wetter than average which caused further problems for species already struggling from a combination of habitat loss and climate change. The other two common white butterflies also had a poor year. Small White was down 16% and Green-veined White down 2%. But many species did enjoy a better year than 2016.The widespread Red Admiral was up 78% compared to 2016 and Comma numbers rose by 91% compared to 2016. Both species are increasing over the long term.The warm start to the year helped some spring butterflies such as the threatened Pearl-bordered Fritillary whose numbers rose by 57% compared to 2016.This is a species that has also benefitted from targeted conservation work.

The rare White Admiral bounced back following a terrible 2016 with an annual increase of 157%. Small Copper was up 28% compared to 2016 after a series of poor years and had its best year on record in Northern Ireland. Professor Tom Brereton, Associate Director of Monitoring at Butterfly Conservation, said: “There is little comfort in these results for the UK’s hard-pressed butterflies. “2017 was the seventh worst in the 42-year series and makes it five below average years in a row. On the positive side, there is much good conservation work happening across the country, which will aid any recovery should we get a helping hand with the weather.” Dr Marc Botham, Butterfly Ecologist at the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, said: “The weather can have a serious impact on individual species’ numbers each year as results from counts in 2017 show. “However, populations can and do bounce back providing suitable habitat is available, and it is the long-terms trends, particularly the declines of a number of common and widespread species, which are of great concern.” Sarah Harris, Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) National Organiser at the British Trust for Ornithology, said: “Huge thanks to the hundreds of volunteers who persevered with their butterfly counts and contributed to this valuable dataset. As well as year-to-year changes, the latest results highlight the longer-term differences in fortunes between species, such as the decline in Large White and increases in Red Admirals.We hope the butterflies - and the volunteers - have a much better season this year." Anna Robinson, Monitoring Ecologist at JNCC said: “It is really important to have long-term studies such as the UKBMS to help us understand changes in species populations, and how we can target action to help reverse declines. “Whilst we can’t control short-term weather impacts, we can take action to address other factors such as the habitat loss and degradation that are thought to have contributed to long-term negative impacts. In the midst of many negative trends, it is encouraging to see the increase in Pearl-bordered Fritillary numbers as this species has benefitted from targeted conservation work.” The UKBMS has run since 1976 and involves thousands of volunteers collecting data through the summer. Last year a record 2,693 sites were monitored across the UK. The scheme is organised and funded by Butterfly Conservation, the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, the British Trust for Ornithology and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee.

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

P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 3 2 | M AY

South Downs Funeral Service

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

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

www.southdownsfuneralservice.com

Clanfield Office now open!

www.bellmans.co.uk Welcoming consignments for our 2018 specialist auctions A George III ormolu, enamel and paste set musical automaton timepiece, attributed to the workshop of William Carpenter, London, 28cm high. £7,000 - £10,000

Sussex Saleroom 01403 700858 sussex@bellmans.co.uk Newpound, Wisborough Green, RH14 0AZ

Winchester Saleroom 01962 861789 winchester@bellmans.co.uk The Red House, Hyde Street, Winchester, SO23 7DX

F EAT U R E I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

Hampshire People THE FORUM TALKS TO JONATHAN PRATT OF BELLMANS AUCTIONEERS AND BBC'S ANTIQUES ROAD TRIP, BARGAIN HUNT AND FLOG IT

furniture to the smallest ceramic, are treated with reverence. For Jonathan and Iain these are muchloved pieces, with a quality of craftsmanship and history which only experts like them can really know; monetary ‘value’ is almost secondary. Jonathan came to Bellmans Winchester via a complex route: from Phillips in Edinburgh where he worked as a porter in the mid-90s, to Sotheby’s in Billingshurst in Sussex. He now lives in Petersfield where he loves to walk his dogs along the lanes to The Harrow pub in Steep, near Petersfield. He became Managing Director of Bellmans in 2005, commuting to the Sussex saleroom, and now spends one day per week valuing and cataloguing jewellery in Winchester. Jonathan specializes in jewellery and makes regular appearances on the BBC’s Antiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt and Flog It, yet you get the impression that he is most at home surrounded by wonderful antiques in the Bellmans’ salerooms. Iain and Jonathan seem to be Yin and Yang; while Iain methodically unwraps, inspects and gently places each new article, Jonathan overflows with unique and infectious enthusiasm for much-loved items of the past.

meet Jonathan Pratt FGA FRICS and his senior director, Iain Rushbrook, in one of the viewing rooms at The Red House, Hyde Street in Winchester. The room reminds me of the Cast Room at the V&A or perhaps the Hogwarts ‘Room of Requirement’, overflowing with treasures. While we talk, Iain is unwrapping yet more items. Memories of the auction houses of my youth are of stuffy (can you really afford to be in here?) rooms filled with items you dare not touch. Thank goodness that times have changed! Whether you’re browsing the beautiful collections on Bellmans’ website, or sitting amongst them, one thing is clear: all the items, from the largest piece of

“I simply don’t understand why people would buy new, spending their hard-earned incomes on cheap, poorly made furniture that won’t last!” He gesticulates around the room. “Yes, of course some antiques can be expensive, and people buy them as collectors’ pieces or as an investment. But if you want reasonable, very well-made furniture in an array of beautiful woods, you don’t have to spend a fortune. One could easily furnish a small terraced house for a thousand pounds. The furniture you choose says something about you as an individual – your sense of design and style. These pieces around us here have a history; they were much loved and are just waiting to be again! Sir David Attenborough has said we should all be recycling to ensure our future, that’s what we do here; we up-cycle.”

Iain feels likewise: “I have a stunning bureau in my hall at home and every time I walk by it I have to stand and admire, it gives me such pleasure.” Jonathan is acutely aware of the heritage of his profession. “Prior to the millennium many of our market towns and smaller cities would have had antique shops and an auction room from whom people were happy to buy. But the rise in consumption of new furniture meant that many antique businesses closed. Everyone wanted to go modern, it seemed. Now we are beginning to see the upturn in buying good quality and pre-loved items; in an age of recycling they are very much in vogue. There is

a danger, however, that anyone can call themselves an ‘auctioneer’ without even being qualified. Here at Bellmans we pride ourselves on working with the very best specialist valuers and auctioneers, offering the utmost in professionalism.” “There are a multitude of reasons why people want to sell items, not least because of bereavement, so it is crucial that people can trust those that come to do valuation and house clearances. We are in such a privileged position that our customers trust us completely, that is so very important to us.”

FEATURE ISSU E 32 | M AY

Jonathan points to a stunning rectangular mirror, with a fretwork frame: “I’ve got my eye on that, it’s exactly what I need for my bathroom. It will probably fetch £40 – 60. It’s George II. Where could you find that quality for that price on the high street?”

Jonathan glances down to the mirror again, “I really do want that, it’s perfect!” Is there a dream find for Jonathan? He laughs, “Yes a blue diamond! But that’s highly unlikely!” winchester@bellmans.co.uk sussex@bellmans.co.uk www.bellmans.co.uk 27

R ETA IL I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

Market Square UNIQUE - BESPOKE - ECLECTIC - LOCAL

Wickham Jewellery

Chase Cycles

Labels Dress Agency

Moorcroft Delphumium design large vase by Kerry Goodwin £195 Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN

Giant Contend SL1 - £999 Winchester Raod, Waltham Chase, SO32 2LG

Designer dress agency located in Bishops Waltham The Old Forge, Brook Street, Bishop's Waltham, SO32 1AX

Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

Tel: 01489 893693 | nigelatchase@gmail.com

Tel: 01489 896515 | www.labelsdressagency.co.uk

Christina's Home Baking

J’adore la Maison

Simon Lawson Jewellers

Now serving lunch and afternoon tea in the garden Cameron Cottage, The Square, Droxford

Stockist of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, painting workshops and furniture painting service.The Square,Wickham (next to Lilly’s) PO17 5JT

Hand made by Simon - Sapphire and white 18ct gold ring - £650 High Street, Bishop's Waltham, SO32 1AB

Tel: 01489 877172

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

Tel: 01489 895575 | simonlawsonjewellers.co.uk

Simon Lawson Jewellers

Boutique ME

JoJo Inspired

White gold, yellow sapphire and diamond ring - £1,175 High Street, Bishop's Waltham, SO32 1AB

Marble Spring/Summer stock selling well Boutique Me, High Street, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1AA

Tel: 01489 895575 | simonlawsonjewellers.co.uk

Tel: 01489 891052 |

The affordable spring collection from JoJo is ready. Insta: jojo_inspired Tel: 07973 688251 | jojoinspired.com

Boutique ME

R ETA IL I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

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

Botley Mills

Wickham Jewellery

Moda Rosa

Pimp my Pony at Botley Mills, everything for animals Botley Mills, Mill Hill, Botley, SO30 2GB

Ladies Rolex Oysters. 18ct yellow gold - £4,600 Bi-metal - £2,500. Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN

Trelliage Dress by Temperley London 35 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB

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

Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

Tel: 01962 733277 | www.modarosa.co.uk

WICKHAM JEWELLERY

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

Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

Wickham Jewellery

Boutique ME

200x75mm @2.4m Long Sleepers. May Special £21.60 + Vat. High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath

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

HOLSTER Australia Footwear - from the beach to the bar £49 Boutique Me, High Street, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1AA

Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

Tel: 01489 891052 |

Wickham Jewellery

Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

Wickham Jewellery

18ct White Gold necklace with diamonds - £4,000 Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN

Omega Lattice Top - One of the most popular panels we supply. Beautifully crafted panel and flowing trellis work.

18ct white gold diamond dress ring - £1,500 Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN

Tel: 01329 835100 | www.equestrianfencing.com

Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

Tel: 01329 835100 | www.equestrianfencing.com

Boutique ME

Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

rant joined Trethowans as a partner in March 2015. Initially qualifying as a solicitor in 1990, Grant is an accredited specialist family lawyer.

Grant has a wide range of experience dealing with all aspects of family law spanning over 25 years. His work includes cohabitation agreements and disputes, pre-nuptial agreements, issues arising on separation & divorce such as children and financial matters. Many of Grant’s cases involve complex aspects dealing with higher net worth clients; trust and taxation elements; business and farming interests, pensions and foreign assets. He also has experience of cases where parents seek to remove children from the country. Grant’ practice includes working as a mediator and a collaborative family lawyer as he is dedicated to working with clients who wish to avoid the adversarial route of going to court to resolving disputes following a relationship breakdown. Grant is also an active member of Resolution, a national body of family law professionals committed to dealing with matters in a constructive and sensitive way. He is a member of the Hampshire Resolution regional committee, and has served a member of Resolution’s National Committee such is his dedication to resolving family legal issues in a nonconfrontational manner. His work in family law has seen him described as ‘an astute family lawyer who is prepared to think creatively’, and ‘everything you want in a family lawyer: he’s fair, calm and focused on the client’. Grant has also attracted praise for his ‘client focus and professionalism’. It is not all work and no play. Grant is something of an amateur thespian – he regularly treads the boards with his local group the Soberton Players in a variety of dramatic roles, from the sublime to the ridiculous (and sometimes downright hilarious). He is also involved in a range of community-based activities, and spends much of his free time out and about in the countryside.

my has had a passion for family law throughout her legal education and subsequent training. She qualified as a solicitor specialising in family law in March 2013 after completing her training with Moore Blatch. She joined Trethowans in December 2017 as an Associate Solicitor.

Amy deals with a wide range of family issues but specialises in assisting couples with cohabitation agreements or prenuptial/post-nuptial agreements and helping separating couples determine the division of assets and arrangements for the children, if required. She has a particular experience in cases involving military pensions. Whilst Amy is experienced in dealing with cases going through a court process, Amy is an active member of Resolution and sits on the Regional committee, promoting alternative forms of dispute resolution where possible. Amy’s clients’ have commented: "This has completed much sooner than I thought and has been a remarkably painless process, mostly down to you and your guidance." "I am incredibly grateful for your guidance, wisdom and professionalism throughout this process." "I was well represented & all points very well argued at court. The result was indeed the best for my boys." Away from the office Amy enjoys the theatre and most particularly attending West End Shows and ballets. It is important to Amy that she prioritises healthy living and embarks on different fitness challenges as the mood takes her.

You can speak to either Grant or Amy at the Southampton Office by phoning 02380 321000. Alternatively, call into the office by visiting us at The Pavilion, Botleigh Grange Business Park, Hedge End, Southampton, SO30 2AF We understand that family and relationship issues are sensitive and we know that emotions may be running high when you turn to us. That is why we offer all new clients a FREE half hour meeting.

Services we can provide Alternative forms of dispute resolution A relationship breakdown may impact all aspects of your life â&#x20AC;&#x201C; work, home, children, and finances. On top of this you are dealing with a raft of conflicting emotions. It is fair to say that the court does have its place for some cases, however the added acrimony of a court process adds an additional layer of strain on what is already sure to be a difficult time. By keeping matters outside of the court process it can provide greater flexibility to discuss the issues that are most important to you. It is also our aim to help parents salvage ongoing communication and mutual respect where possible to enable them to co parent moving forwards. Our family law team boasts of a number of specialist lawyers committed to alternative forms of dispute resolution as we recognise going to court is a daunting experience for many and should be seen as a last resort. Two of the main processes are discussed below.

Mediation In the context of family law mediation is a popular way of solving family disputes that will help you to avoid court. At Trethowans we offer a comprehensive mediation service that can help you settle your issues without the stress and expense of a court case. Mediation is a flexible process which can be used to settle disputes over money, property, possessions or the arrangements for the children no matter how straightforward or complex. Each mediation session will be led by a mediator â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a completely impartial figure whose key aim is to help the parties reach acceptable solutions. Mediators do not make judgements and are trained to listen to both points of view. Mediators will not advise either party to ensure impartiality but can provide information in relation to the law to help

the couple to make informed decisions. Mediation takes place in a neutral setting to put the couple at ease. At Trethowans we understand that when a relationship breakdown is a time of enormous upheaval for the whole family so we strive to work with you to reach workable long-term solutions which will alleviate stress and concern for the family and may well improve the lines of communication between you.

Collaborative Law Collaborative law is another option available to you when you are looking for a way to resolve any issues that arise following separation. You and your partner commit not to go to Court and you each instruct a lawyer. The four of you sit round a table together where you work together to find a creative solution. However throughout the process you will have one of our specially trained collaborative lawyers by your side to assist you and help you communicate effectively. This is an increasingly popular process as you and your partner retain control deciding the outcome. Often we engage the assistance of third parties such as a family consultant or an independent financial advisor within the process to help you both find a solution. If you have children then, during this process, we will help you build a good foundation for a positive post separation parenting relationship. For more information about these alternative forms of dispute resolution or should you have any family law queries please contact Grant or Amy. We offer an initial free 30 minute appointment to discuss your situation and to help you find a way forwards.

Southampton Office - Tel: 02380 321000 The Pavilion, Botleigh Grange Business Park, Hedge End, Southampton, SO30 2AF

Winchester Office (by appointment only) Tel: 01962 670677 Suite 4, 45 Southgate Street, Winchester, SO23 9EH

www.trethowans.com

Offices also in Salisbury, Poole & Bournemouth

COMMU N IT Y P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 32 | M AY

Community Professional BISHOP'S WALTHAM ROTARY NEWS

e are very proud to announce that the mayor of Winchester's Community Award was made to BW Rotary club ‘for service to the people of the Winchester District in recognition of the members, past members, partners and family, who have undertaken tremendous work over many years; including supporting the local community for 29 Years; raising money for local charities and good causes, including Mini Bus, North Pond, Lunch Clubs, Junior and Infant School, Bishop Waltham House to name a few; organising the Carnival and Show for 26 years, which involves all the community and offers stalls to local groups so they can also raise funds and attract volunteers; broadcasting carols around the local areas in the lead up to Christmas; attending the Christmas Fayre; volunteering support at numerous local charity events; supporting ‘End Polio Now’ and emergency fund raising for International disasters’.

BW Council Annual Meeting

Our presentation attempted to get across that the club is not just made up of old codgers, but is a diverse mixture of ages and genders. It described the local and international recipients of our donations, and focussed on the many things that the Rotary organisation sponsors for youth, such as leadership training, and many others. Our stand at the event showed pictures of the campaign to eliminate POLIO in the world.

Bishop’s Waltham Citizen’s Advice

BW Rotary has provided a grant and in-kind support to the Bishop's Waltham office of Winchester District Citizen's Advice to the value of £500 to help improve the use of their office space. Situated in Brook Street, it is currently occupied by 20 people over a week. Advice is given face-to-face, over the phone and via webchat; and with demand for the service steadily increasing, space is at an absolute premium. "With Rotary's support we will be able to reconfigure the office to add at least one new desk for advisers and an additional webchat station", said Sarah Berry, a Trustee of the Charity. "This will provide more room for our volunteer advisers to work and enable us to offer a better webchat service. We are very grateful for BW Rotary's continuing support for our work. As a local independent charity we are reliant on fundraising to keep our service in operation and Rotary has helped us out in many ways over the years".

FUNERAL PROCESSION ETIQUETTE

he traffic is moving at a snail's pace, you can't see why, and you are frustrated. What you may not realise is that you are being held up by a hearse. Walking in front of the hearse a few weeks ago, during a funeral procession, we were overtaken by several cars. One of which passed so close that we had to stop. Research completed into attitudes towards funeral corteges has suggested that traditions are slipping away. Whether it’s caring less, simply not knowing or something else, less respect is shown today than it was even 10 years ago. So what should you do if you see a funeral procession?

If you're driving

The standard etiquette is to just accept it. Hearses normally drive at around 20-30 mph, so stick to the same speed and turn off and find another route when you can. Beeping the horn and trying to overtake are not generally advised, although the latter is OK if you're on a dual carriageway.

If you're a pedestrian

Stopping what you are doing is usually welcomed and the good old fashioned doffing of the cap or removing your hat altogether still goes down well.

If you're crossing the road

It is appreciated if people do not cross the road in front of a funeral cortège but standing by a zebra crossing can be confusing and hearse drivers will generally stop to be sure. It's best to make it plain you are allowing the cortège to proceed by standing back.

If you're travelling in the opposite direction

There is no real issue but people often think there is. There is no expectation for people to stop or move across the road but revving the engine is frowned upon.

And another new rotarian to swell the numbers of the local club. Ian Fletcher, a local business man, was inducted into the club by John Natt on 5th April

There are no legal rules to follow when a cortège is passing, but the points above are very much appreciated by not just us but by the bereaved.Very simply, if it was a funeral for your loved one, how would you expect others to act towards them and you?

Contact: Mike Berry at mike. berry@bishopswalthamrotary.org.uk

A.H. Freemantle www.ahfreemantle.co.uk

P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 3 2 | M AY

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

EDU CAT ION F OOD & DR IN K ISSU E 32 | M AY

Education

COME AND SEE THE DIFFERENCE - QUITE SIMPLY, THIS IS A SCHOOL WHERE GIRLS DO BETTER

The family atmosphere at Portsmouth High Prep and Pre-School promotes exceptional pastoral care alongside highlevel academic performance. The school is part of a much larger family of schools, the Girls’ Day School Trust, the leading provider of independent education for girls in the country. Girls in GDST schools are confident, composed, committed and courageous. They learn together in a unique environment where girls really do better.

Prep and Pre-School Open Morning

Come and see the difference at our Prep and Pre-School Open Morning on Saturday 9 June from 10am to 12 noon. Girls can become a detective for the day and enjoy solving a crime using forensic science skills tailored to all ages from 3 to 11 years.

School Fees and Free Wrap Around Care

ortsmouth High Prep and PreSchool flourishes in the heart of Southsea and is easily reached on a daily basis via the school’s own minibus service. An oasis in the heart of the city, the Prep School has large gardens, an outdoor classroom, tennis courts and play equipment, as well as vegetable and flower beds where girls grow their own produce. Intellectual curiosity is developed from the start. Girls enjoy learning through

a huge range of opportunities giving new and valuable experiences. They are able to make excellent progress quickly through an explorers’ approach to learning using thinking skills that apply across the curriculum and beyond into sport, music and drama. Close connections with Portsmouth High Senior School nearby mean girls take advantage, not just of specialist teachers, but also of excellent facilities including an impressive sports hall and food technology centre.

Food & Drink

VINEYARDS OF HAMPSHIRE LAUNCH SUMMER VISITOR

No need to book, just turn up.The Cellar Door Experience will see Vineyards of Hampshire’s seven vineyards open their doors to visitors once a month* on a Friday and Saturday, from Friday 18th May to Saturday 8th September for the opportunity to taste 34

Portsmouth High Prep School Tel: 02392 824916 www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk Kent Road, Southsea, PO5 3ES

visitors the chance to experience a variety of vintages without needing to book a place on an official vineyard/winery tour.We hope that Cellar Door will help boost visitation to the vineyards, which will result in the event been extended and expanded in years to come.”

their wines and purchase directly from the vineyard shop. Tourists and locals alike are being invited to explore the vineyards and taste a glass or two from the cellar. Due to the vineyards’ proximity to each other,Vineyards of Hampshire is encouraging people to make a day of it and traverse the countryside visiting a number of them (none alcoholic beverages will be available for drivers).

Vineyards of Hampshire have also just announced dates for its summer festival, which is fast becoming a date not to be missed in Hampshire’s summer social calendar.The 6th annual sparkling wine festival will take place on Sunday 22nd July at Raimes Vineyards. Visitors can sample over 12 premium English sparkling and still wines and enjoy local fare from Hampshire food producers and street food stalls. All located under marquees set in the beautiful English countryside.Tickets are £12 per person.

Commenting on the exciting new programme, Caroline Stevens, Sales and Marketing Manager, Danebury Vineyards said “We’re incredibly pleased to see months of planning come to fruition with the launch of Cellar Door. At a time when English wine tourism is flourishing, this new initiative showcases seven of Hampshire’s leading vineyards and gives

Further details regarding the Cellar Door Experience and Vineyards of Hampshire Festival can be found at www.vineyardsofhampshire.co.uk. * Most vineyards will offer the Cellar Door Experience free of charge and some vineyards will only be open on Fridays. All dates can be found online.

CELLAR DOOR EXPERIENCE rom soft sparkling Rosé to delicious Pinot Noir, the vineyards of Hampshire are brimming with sensational vintages, which is why for the very first time this year Vineyards of Hampshire have launched an exciting new summer Cellar Door experience.

Competitively priced school fees at Portsmouth High Prep School start at £625 per month (NEG funding is available for Pre-School). Girls can come into school from 7.30am and be collected at 6.00pm. There is no extra charge for this wrap around care, it is included in the price of the fees.

EDU CAT ION P R OF ESSION A L ISS U E 32 | M AY

F OOD & DR IN K ISSU E 3 2 | M AY

Food & Drink

TASTE OF WICKHAM FESTIVAL: AND NOW WE ARE FIVE

square – not just to enjoy its medieval feeling and atmosphere, but to see, sample and appreciate the variety and range that we have to offer – many items exclusive to Wickham. We continue to appreciate the enormous help, support and sponsorship given to us by The Southern Co-operative – without their help we would not be able to keep this a totally free event for visitors. We also very much appreciate all the (free), cheerful and generous help given by the many volunteers, whether individually or through their organisations and clubs. We couldn't do it without you. We still need more volunteers to help both before and on The Day – so please get in touch as soon as possible if you feel you could give an hour or two of your time - or more!” The Taste of Wickham Festival will take place on Sunday 9th September and takes place in the Square from 10am - 4pm.

PUB WITH NO NAME BEER FESTIVAL COMES TO BERELEIGH FOR THE LONGEST DAY BEREFEST - FRIDAY 15TH & SATURDAY 16TH JUNE

nce again preparations for this highly successful event are already well advanced, stalls are being reserved, the entertainments and demonstrations planned and organised. The brightly striped gazebos always look cheerful, filling Wickham’s medieval Square to overflowing, but most people just like what they find under the canvas - stalls showing the displays of goods and services offered by the shops, businesses and organisations based in and around Wickham. Food and drink in abundance, of course, but a taste of many others – furnishings and home decoration, florists, gifts, clothing, youth and community activities. We are all becoming more and more aware and appreciative of the quality and variety of locally-produced food and drink. (Especially noticeable last year was the growth of local gin distilleries – a welcome addition to the scene for many of us!) The much appreciated programme of cookery demonstrations, generously supported once again by the Southern Co-operative, will feature several local chefs showing how to produce wonderful meals in our temporary kitchen in the large marquee, no doubt to packed audiences once again. As part of the cookery theme, we are hoping to feature a Bake-Off for local entrants. Full details will appear on the Taste of Wickham website soon. (www.wickhamsquare.co.uk/tasteofwickham) The programme of children's activities and entertainments, live music, local groups performing their musical and dancing shows keep the audiences of all ages amused and entertained. And then there are the goats – always a popular centre of attraction! The free and easy atmosphere, aided by free entry and free park-andride, is enjoyed by growing numbers of visitors. Aiming to make this year even better, we aim to repeat the full occupancy of the stalls again and we encourage all the visitors to visit the shops and cafes which are open in and around the Square. Ben Sawyers, Chairman of the Organising Team said: “Once again we look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to our lovely village

he Pub with No Name Beer Festival comes to Bereleigh for The Longest Day Berefest on Friday 15th & Saturday 16th June 2018. With 50 Different Ales and Ciders Selection of local food stalls.

Gates open Friday 5pm – 11pm. On the Friday, The Trevor John Band will be playing from 7.30pm. The Trevor John Band has performed at all The No Name Festivals – if you haven’t heard them then now is your chance – Trevor John’s voice is legendary – the guitarists are brilliant and the drummer plays with such energy it makes you feel faint. On Saturday gates open from midday - 11pm. Live music - from 4.30pm - 5.30pm The Southampton Ukulele Jam, 8.00pm - 10.30pm The Damiain Lodrick Band. Entertainment for children on Saturday afternoon. Camping available at Cedar Valley. Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a lead. There will be a first aid facility and also a lost child point. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. All festival attendees will be given a wristband to allow leaving and re-entering the site. Challenge 21 will be in operation – ID must be presented before wrist bands are issued. Adult advance purchase tickets £5.00. Adult tickets on the day £10.00 Under 18 Free. Cash only. For more information and to buy tickets please visit: www. berefest.com. The festival will be held at Bereleigh, East Meon, GU32 1PH.

F OOD & DR IN K ISSU E 3 2 | M AY

Butchers and Farm Shop Our butchery department stock free range beef, lamb, pork, poultry and local game, while our Farm Shop has a wealth of local fruit and vegetables available

BBQ PACKS NOW IN

With BBQ season in full swing, why not pop in and buy one of our BBQ packs for you and your friends and family to enjoy? Containing locally sourced meat, perfect for the summer

Tel: 01329 833832 www.westlandsfarmshop.co.uk Westlands Farm, Pricketts Hill, Wickham, SO32 2JW

ADVERTISING OFFER ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE FOR AS LITTLE AS

Banks Bar Bistro

£60

PER MONTH (PLUS VAT, MINIMUM 6 MONTH BOOKING FOR PRICE SHOWN)

For more information

01962 735137 stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

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

•••

Tel: 01489 896352

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

WELLBEIN G I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

Wellbeing

REX WINGATE: VISUAL STRESS IN CHILDREN

THE HOLT HAIRDRESSING: AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSING IN HAMPSHIRE

eenagers are about to enter the phase of revision timetables, multi-coloured mind maps, highlighters, post it notes and, ultimately, a significantly increased amount of reading to remember.This significant increase to the volume of reading makes it easier to identify symptoms of visual stress. Affecting one in five people to some extent, many children will remain unaware they see words any differently to anyone else until they see font on a different coloured background or use an overlay and they exclaim that the words have ‘stopped moving’.

he Holt Hairdressing is a relatively new business to the Meon Valley, opening in October. However, that by no means is to say that it is inexperienced. The business has top London hairdresser Anneka Rowsell at the helm, who has created a truly unique countryside hair retreat, with exceptional London salon experience. Being located a 5 minute drive from Bishop's Waltham Town Centre, this charming hairdressers is in a very unique location. Based on Hazelholt Farm in Dundridge, the salon has all the amenities one would expect. Owner and stylist, Anneka Rowsell says “I'm excited to introduce my unique sense of London style to Hampshire. With 10 years' experience in London's top salons and national awards for my work, I felt inspired to offer customers an industry-leading hair service in the relaxing, discreet surroundings of Hazelholt Farm. This is a brand new space that I've poured myself into, only for the very best personalised cut, colour and style results in the area.” The testimonials of her clients give a sense of the talent that Anneka has, Sophie Marie Atkinson says “Anneka is hands down the best hairdresser I've ever had (I've recieved compliments from strangers about my hair - the colour in particular - because of her). In addition to her skills, she is an absolute joy to spend a couple of hours with. I cannot recommend her enough.” Sally Spicer says “The salon is incredible, Anneka you have done an amazing job. I came in thinking I wanted a trim and dark straight hair. I left relaxed, some subtle light ends, glossed up to the max and most importantly - no greys! I've booked in for my next visit already.” Reader offer: 20% off for new clients For more information, call Anneka: Tel: 07540 859254 www.theholthair.co.uk Hazelholt Farm, Hazelholt, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1GA

Visual stress is a photosensitive syndrome triggered by over stimulus of the visual cortex.This is caused, most predominantly, by black print or pattern on a white background. Furthermore, neurological disorders that affect this part of the brain include; migraine, photosensitive epilepsy, autism, multiple sclerosis, head injury and stroke and Colorimetry has shown to help patients with all of these conditions. Symptoms of Visual Stress are similar and often misdiagnosed as dyslexia and include; • Letters and / or words moving on the page • Reading causing headaches or discomfort to the eyes • Blotches of colour appearing on the page • feelings of nausea or tiredness when reading • Discomfort with glare / bright sunlight / bright fluorescent light The sheer quantity of visual stimulus young people, especially, are confronted with today (smart phones, tablets, computers, televisions), when compared to the turn of the Twentieth Century when fluorescent lighting had not yet been invented, and global literacy was at 35%, may go some way to explaining why our eyes may struggle. It is apparent that our eyes need to be treated for more than how they focus and function. The existence of Visual Stress in children specifically can be identified simply using diagnostic testing procedures designed by Professor Arnold Wilkins - head of Visual Perception at the University of Essex. Initially a child is asked to read a selection of unrelated short words, if literate, or identify shapes if not, whilst being discreetly timed.The child is then asked to compare a different paragraph of text with the application, one at a time, of twelve possible coloured plastic overlays. Once the colours which alleviate their symptoms have been selected, they are compared and the most beneficial is identified.The child is asked to read the initial selection of unrelated short words again, whilst timed, to illustrate the improvement the overlay has made. The next step is a few weeks later with a further test on the Intuitive Colorimeter where instead of one in twelve colours, there are over 20,000 different colour and saturation combinations available which are translated into precision tinted lenses.The results from these lenses can be nothing short of spectacular.Testimonials of which can be found on the Rex Wingate Eye Care Centres website www.wingateopticians.co.uk

FREE COMPLETE SET OF SPECTACLES For children and full time students under 19 on production of this advert* *Before 01/06/17 and where the NHS sight test has been carried out at Rex Wingate Eye Care Centres

To book an appointment please call:

Park Gate: 01489 584169 Havant: 02392 484184 60 Botley Road, Park Gate â&#x20AC;¢ 26 North Street, Havant

www.wingateopticians.co.uk

P R OMOT ION I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

asting Touch Chiropractic is owned by Katie Hopper; a Human and Veterinary Chiropractor. Katie has worked throughout Hampshire for the past four years treating both human and animal patients. Lasting Touch Chiropractic is now opening its first Chiropractic Clinic on the outskirts of Bishops Waltham. The Clinic specialises in Mctimoney Technique which is a very gentle form of Chiropractic Care. We will be having an open day on the 23rd of June to give people the chance to come along and find out more about what we do!

What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractors train for 4-5 years to complete a Masters degree in Chiropractic. They are regulated by the General Chiropractic Council, and have to undergo 30 hours of continued professional development every year to remain on the register. Chiropractic focuses on restoring, preserving and optimising health through non-invasive hands on care. Chiropractors specialise in the treatment of the neuro-musculoskeletal system (the nervous system, joints and muscles). Chiropractic uses a straightforward method of quick precise impulses into the joints to restore correct movement and function, which in turn helps to reduce pain and discomfort. The McTimoney method is known for being a gentle, whole body approach to Chiropractic care. The gentle nature of this treatment makes it suitable for all; including children pregnant women and the elderly.

What can we help?

Chiropractic is effective in the management of numerous conditions, including: • Back ache and back pain • Biomechanical Neck & shoulder pain, including rotator cuff injury • Headaches arising from the neck and Migraine prevention • General muscle and joint aches, pains, cramp and spasms • Discomfort and stiffness in joints • Specific sports injuries, such as Tennis elbow • Sciatica and lumbago • Management of osteoarthritis; wear and tear • Management of plantar fasciitis and ankle sprains • Wider wellbeing; relaxation 40

Our Chiropractors

Dr Katie Hopper Mchiro MMCA IVCA (Doctor of Chiropractic) Katie is the Owner of Lasting Touch Chiropractic, and she treats both people and animals. Her interest in Chiropractic stemmed from having treatment for herself and her horse from a young age, enabling them to achieve optimum performance. Katie is also a qualified sports massage therapist. She finds the use of soft tissue work alongside chiropractic very effective and often uses Soft Tissue Release, Trigger Point Release Techniques, and Kinesiology Taping as part of the treatment. Katie is certified by both the International Academy of Veterinary Chiropractic (IAVC) and the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association (IVCA).

Dr Wendy Johnson DC MMCA (Doctor of Chiropractic) A chiropractor was the first person to make Wendy feel better after struggling for many years with the after effects of a whiplash injury. It was this that inspired Wendy to change from being a State Registered Nurse (SRN) and retrain as a McTimoney Chiropractor. Her common sense views and 30 years as an SRM have informed her Chiropractic expertise since she qualified in 1999. During this time she has widened her skill set even further and added expertise in: Scenar therapy; hopi ear candling; SD Protocol; and making customised orthotics to the array of her healing talents. Contact us now to find out more! To book an appointment please contact the Clinic on 02380 582245 or visit lastingtouchchiropractic.co.uk where you can book online. Lasting Touch Chiropractic, The Yard, Ashton Lane, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1FN

• Free consultation • Pay for 8 treatments and receive the 9th free • Pay for a course of 8 cosmetic acupuncture treatments to receive 10% discount

AESTHETIC STUDIO ALRESFORD |

See website for further details Hair design for ladies and men, traditional to modern, with a passion for our customer service combined with using the exclusive Aveda Products which are 96% naturally derived.

stockists of:

At Head Masters our professional team offers a detailed consultation,with advice on our superb Aveda colour range. From glossing, demi & permanent/fade resistant/grey coverage/ with shine & condition, all individually created for you.

LONDON

THERMAVISAGE FACELIFT/DIAMOND PEEL/COLOUR Try theTHERAPY/MESOTHERAPY NEW: MesoLift treatments NO NEEDLE ALTERNATIVES NO NEEDLE alternativeTO toBOTOX botoxAND andFILLERS 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.

WELLBEING ISSUE | AY DECEMBER WELLBEIN G I SSU E 3 134 2 | M

Traditional Chinese Medicine· Cosmetic Acupuncture Alresford· Southampton

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.

Head Masters salons are supporting Aveda’s No Cruelty to Animals mission

26 The Dean Alresford Hampshire S024 9AZ 01962 738683hmhairdesign.co.uk Tel:Tel: 01489 896841 www.studio49alresford.com HEAD MASTERS, HOUCHIN STREET, BISHOPS WALTHAM, SO32 1AR

Contact me on: 07887 878567

Contact me on: 07887 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 AirAirFridays your life... Fresh Fridays part part ofofyour life….

HAIR ART

Fresh Air Fridays gives you time to:

Fresh AirFridays Fridays gives you Fresh Air you time to: time to: Relax Stillgives your mind Learn Relax Relax Still your mind Learn Still your mind Learn Move your body Connect with nature Make friends

PRETTY WOMAN

Move your body Connect with nature Make friends Move your body Connect with nature Make friends In and aroundIn beautiful Alresford, SO24 In and and around beautiful Alresford, SO24 SO24 around beautiful Alresford, th Friday of every month 4th Friday of every 4month 4th Friday of each month 9.30 am – 12.30 pm 9.30 am – 12.30 pm 9.30am - 12.30pm

Jeanette Pratt, Fresh Air Fridays Facilitator Jeanette Pratt, Fresh Air Fridays Facilitator Further details at: www.freshairfridays.co.uk/Jeanette-pratt/ Jeanette Pratt Email me on: jpratt62@gmail.com or Further details at: www.freshairfridays.co.uk/Jeanette-pratt/ Fresh Air Further details at:Call www.freshairfridays.co.uk/Jeanette-pratt/ memeon: Email on07709 119960 for more information and to jpratt62@gmail.com or Fridays Facilitator book your place on a session Call meArt onthe 07709119960 forsalon more information Email me on jpratt62@gmail.com Hair premierorhair in Bishops and to book your free first session

Waltham and Christchurch, is oneand of the Call me on 07709119960 for more information to leading book your free first session 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.

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

41 27

LEISU R E I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

Leisure

PETERSFIELD SPRING FESTIVAL: BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND – 26TH, 27TH & 28TH MAY 2018

to form one of the most exciting, in-demand function bands in the country. Their sets include roots driven folk-pop joy ride, laced with soaring vocal harmonies and set to the sound of pounding double bass and banjo to grabbing the electric guitars and come out blazing like one of your favorite festival headliners, all culminating in an electrifying indie-rock finale. This flawless quartet will stun your guests with their emphatic, incredible delivery – all of which is anchored by the mesmerizing performance of their charismatic lead vocalist.

Monday Evening Headliner – Amy Baker

To join in with the commemoration of the First World War centenary in Petersfield we have invited the wonderful Miss Amy Baker with her Vintage looks and nostalgic tones to transport you back to times forgotten. She has been lucky enough to sing at some prestigious festivals and events including Ronnie Scott’s, Glastonbury Festival, The Edinburgh Fringe, The Tower of London, The Cannes Yachting Festival, The Fort Lauderdale and Miami Boat Show. Amy is touring with The UK’s number 1 Jive and Swing Band ‘The Jive Aces’ and her new album was recently played on BBC Radio 2.

etersfield Spring Festival. Petersfield Festivals will be making sure Spring has finally sprung when it brings back the Petersfield Spring Festival at the end of May. The three-day Bank Holiday weekend will be full of awesome activities for people of all ages! Starting on the Saturday evening at 7pm a fantastic line up of live music acts stage will rock Petersfield square until 10pm followed by two full days of activities including more live music, an awesome new addition ‘Bug Fest”with the ability to handle a range of bugs and watch the “Wild and Deadly Show” performed by Nick Wadham, traditional dobby horse carousel to other modern children’s rides, Solent Renegades with their American and classic cars, as well as two days of market stalls selling quality produce and much more.

For more information please visit: www.petersfieldfest.com/ wp/index.php/petersfield-spring-festival/

MEONSTOKE TENNIS CLUB NOW IN SECOND YEAR

Once again, the Petersfield Spring Festival is boasting a music lineup that is absolutely amazing for a free-to-enter event. We pride ourselves on booking the best established and up-and-coming acts we can to entertain you all and this Spring was no exception. We are looking forward to entertaining you!

Saturday Night Headliner – Splinter

Splinter is a 4 piece band playing a blend of rock,blues and country music cover songs and original material. All lifelong musicians, Splinter benefits from the huge combined experience of Rupe Rance on drums, Ian McLaughlin on bass guitar, Steven Thornton on keyboards and Gavin Driver on guitar and vocals. Currently recording an album of original material for release in the the near future, they continue to gig regularly in the local area.

Sunday Night Headliner - Festival Nights

Armed with unrivalled musicianship, scintillating delivery and a repertoire packed with artfully interpreted pop covers, these boys are the perfect act for anyone looking to bring that heady taste of a summer festival to their big night!

Assembled from four of the most promising young performers operating in the British music industry. They come together here 42

eonstoke Tennis Club is now in its second year, and its membership is flourishing. The court has been used by both Meonstoke School and The Valley PreSchool and in August, 43 children joined for holiday coaching. The Club has also donated three sets of short tennis nets and racquets to Meonstoke School, which the children have enjoyed using in their school hall last winter. We are still enrolling new members and all who live in the local villages (including Droxford) are welcome. The membership cost for 2018 is still only £25 per family which goes towards running the Club which is a non-for-profit organisation, run by members of the community for the community. With plenty of activities planned for the coming season, please keep an eye out for details on our website as we are hoping to organise some lessons for the summer holidays too. You can also find details of how to enrol at www.meonstoketennisclub.com

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

RATING: GOOD 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 2 | M AY

We're going on a Bear Hunt!

THIS SUMMER HALF TERM IN DURLEY

f you go down to Durley today you’re sure of a big surprise! A much-loved family event is back in time for the summer half term holidays from 26th May, the Durley Bear Hunt returns and promises to be bigger than ever. The Durley Bear Hunt began in 2014 and is a biennial fund raising event organised by the Durley School Association. Claire Taylor, a local resident and School Association member originally championed the initiative having seen something similar in her hometown. The Durley Bear Hunt now attracts hundreds of visitors to the central Hampshire village every other year. The concept of the Durley Bear Hunt follows the same lines as the Scarecrow Festival, the local community display dressed up bears to a theme in their front gardens, up trees, across fields and even on roof tops. Each display is given a number and a name plaque so those spotting them can add them to their list. Previous entries include Cinderbearla, Bear Grills and Beary Poppins. This fantastic display of colour and character brings the community together and provides children with a few magical hours over the Summer Half Term wandering around the village and surrounding areas searching for their favourite bear display.

Get involved – join the hunt!

If you want to join the hunt, prizes are available to everyone that finds all of the bears; there were 19 dedicated winners last year that found all 80 bears.You can purchase a £2 entry pack, which includes your search form as well as a list of street names for the bears that are outside of Durley village, search tips, entry guidelines and a form to nominate your favourite bears.

Want to display your own bear?

If you would like to exhibit a bear it costs £6 to enter and prizes are given to the bears voted as Best Dressed, Best Crafted, Most Humorous, Favourite Bear and Best Business/Community Bear. In the hunt’s first year, the local community responded magnificently and 66 bears were entered, in 2016 this increased to 80 bears. This year the Durley School Association aim to get 100 bears involved in the hunt. Last time the hunt raised almost £900. All funds raised go to the Durley Primary School and previously has helped to pay for things like much needed teaching and sports equipment and for assisting in the upgrade of the school kitchen. This year the school is hoping to renovate the outside play area that is obviously very well used and now very worn. If you want to take part by exhibiting a bear or by joining the hunt, or both, visit www.durleybearhunt.co.uk for details.You can purchase hunt packs from Durley Primary School and Durley pubs The Robin Hood and The Farmers Home. Hunting begins on Saturday 26th May for 3 weeks and if you’d like to enter a bear, please do so between 1st and 21st May. So grab your best bear spotting pals and head across to Durley Village this half term.

SATURDAY

BUY NOW& SAVE

ADULT TICKETS

9 JUNE TH

£25

2018

U13S £10 & U18S £15

UNDER 5S GO FREE

10AM–‘TILMIDNIGHT

SAVE £s OFF GATE PRICES

A R L E B U R Y PA R K , A

LRESFORD, N R . WI NCH ESTER, HAM PSH I RE

y L I V E S E M G USIC A T S 5

OVER 25 BANDS FAMILY •••• •••• LOADS OF FREE

ENTERTAINMENT THEATRE TENT

FEATURING

NUBIYAN TWIST

CIRCUS SKILLS SILENT DISCO

FESTIVAL VILLAGE COOL COCKTAILS

BEER FESTIVAL PROSECCO + PIMMS BAR

OLD JOE’S CIDER CORNER

WEEKEND

CAMPING

FRIDAY ‘TIL SUNDAY

CLIMBING WALL & ZORBS BUNGEE TRAMPOLINING MUSIC & ART WORKSHOPS

INCLUDING CAMPERVAN AND MOTORHOME SITE

• PLUS MUCH MORE •

FREE SHUTTLE BUSES

FROM WINCHESTER & ALTON TRAIN STATIONS ‘TIL MIDNIGHT ON SATURDAY!

INDIE • SOUL FUNK • SKA HIP-HOP • R&B WORLD • AFROBEAT LATIN • DANCE • JAZZ GROOVE • REGGAE ••• PLUS DJs •••

SAVE £££S BUY IN ADVANCE

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

FRIDAY FRINGE

LIVE MUSIC IN PUBS

AROUND THE TOWN INCLUDING

SOUL CELLAR DJs MOTOWN, SIXTIES & NORTHERN SOUL

alresfordmusicfestival.com A NON-PROFIT EVENT RAISING FUNDS FOR REGIONAL, NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL MUSIC CHARITIES (REG CHARITY No. 1168066) MANY THANKS TO OUR PRINCIPAL SPONSORS

COMMU N IT Y LEISU R E ISSU E 3 2 | M AY

Community Leisure COVER ARTIST – HAMPSHIRE ILLUSTRATOR, RACHEL HUDSON

achel is a freelance illustrator working from her home studio in Four Marks, East Hampshire. Her fresh style, with its clarity of line, vibrant colour and sense of movement, celebrates our connections with the natural world, with an aim to delight and inspire.

UK Magazines Since creating murals and wall paper last year, Rachel has plunged into the world of magazines, including BBC Wildlife Magazine. Last month saw the publication of her feature illustration about hedgehogs in the suburbs. In June, the children’s magazine Wildlife Watch includes Rachel’s work exploring creatures that live in the soil. This coincides with Wild About Gardens week, where The Wildlife Trusts and the RHS promote wildlife gardening (www.wildaboutgardens.org.uk). Calling all collaborators… Following another partnership with The Wildlife Trusts, this time with Rapanui Clothing on the Isle of Wight, Rachel has just designed a collection of orchid t-shirts. Keen to take on commercial projects, Rachel is especially interested to collaborate with companies that champion sustainability, local produce and healthy living. If you think Rachel’s style would be a good fit with your brand, please pop over to her website to get in touch: www.rachelhudsonillustration.com. Escape into nature Hot on the heels of her third successful solo exhibition at The Allen Gallery in April, Rachel has also embarked on The 100 Day Project where she is illustrating 100 ‘nature escapes’ every day until mid-July on social media. Each illustration captures a fleeting moment of time that pulls us out of ourselves and reminds us that we are immersed in a much bigger world.You can follow her creative adventures and leave comments on Instagram: @butterfly_track_ She would love to hear from you with your favourite nature escapes… How to find out more The May issue of Hampshire Life includes an interview with Rachel about her creative process. If you would like to buy art prints, greetings cards and illustrated giftware please visit Rachel’s website. There are also a number of local stockists, including: Long Barn (Alresford), The Allen Gallery, (Alton), Gilbert White’s House, (Selborne) and Sea Sky Gallery, (Hamble). 46

THE RIDE WITH NO NAME SATURDAY 9TH JUNE, NOW OPEN FOR BOOKING

he Ride with No Name may be the biggest 30km ride you’ll take on this year! The ultimate early evening ride, starting and finishing at one of Hampshire’s finest pubs, it features a massive 1,000m of climbing and descending in a relentless but little known pocket of hills called the Hangers.

Let’s put that in perspective for a moment. 1,000m of climbing in 30km is 50% more climb per km than the South Downs Way (which sits a few miles to the south). This is a short ride with a big punch! The ancient, wooded hills of the Hangers feature a host of great riding, from insanely steep climbs to barrelling single track descents, gnarly little drop-ins and perilous rain-rut runs. All in one of the most beautiful hidden corners of the countryside that you’ve (probably) never heard of! As if that wasn’t enough, the ride is based from (and named for) the local legend that is The Pub with No Name, one of the very best country pubs you’ll find. A charming 17th Century hostelry, it serves a wide selection of excellent beers, and delicious home cooked food. An empty metal frame atop a tall signpost marks the point where you turn off the road towards the pub formerly known as the White Horse. Stories of how and when the pub lost it’s sign are vague and varied, but somewhere along the way it adopted the handle by which it is better known today; The Pub with No Name. It’s a bit of a local legend, as pubs go. As well as being famous for being hard to find, it is renowned for it’s excellent range of real ales, classic malt whiskies and superb home cooked food. The pub itself is a beautiful 17th Century building in the quintessential British country pub mould; cosy bars and log fires lead back to a spacious but homely restaurant area, with a large garden outside to enjoy in the summer months. There is plenty of parking on site too, and a large camping field, from where the Ride with No Name will be based, and where you can book a pitch to camp over after the event, so you can make the most of the evening and enjoy the full hospitality of the brilliant pub! In spite of it’s reputation, it’s actually not hard to get to with good directions and our signs to guide you! The perfect place to finish your ride and enjoy a pint and bite to eat! And if you want more than the one pint, there’s camping on site too, in the pubs very own camping field! Stay on for the evening, climb into your tent and leave at your leisure on Sunday morning! For more information and booking: www.trailbreak.co.uk/the-ride-with-no-name/

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

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

LEISU R E H OME ISSU E 3 2 | M AY

Leisure

FILM ON A FARM RETURNS THIS MONTH WITH TWO CLASSIC FILMS

THE SOUTHDOWNS GREEN FAIR SUNDAY 13 MAY 2018

he fair will include plenty of activities for all the family, such as circus skills, Bushcraft demonstrations and outdoor cooking. It will be a fantastic day out for the whole family with plenty to do and see, whatever the weather.

Whether you are looking for a family day out with a difference, or to connect with other local people involved in practical sustainability, or want to enjoy good music with beer and food thrown in, it's a day that promises all of that and more. A wide variety of free children's activities throughout the day will keep all ages busy and amused.

ilm on a Farm returns this May with two classic films to entice viewers to the Manor Farm, Droxford venue in the heart of the South Downs National Park and the Meon Valley. Film on a Farm is a unique Outdoor Cinema experience. Showcasing some of the most stunning landscapes the Great British countryside has to offer. Pull up a straw bale, and snuggle up beneath a blanket of stars and join us for a night to remember with your favourite movie.

Local food and drink stalls offering Fair Trade and organic wares and vegan and vegetarian meals from The Beech Cafe on site will keep all in food supply. Music from local and national bands, some of which appear at big festivals, will keep the day alive with music. I nteresting presentations and talks from leading speakers on practical, greener ways of living will also be part of the day.This event will be held at The Sustainability Centre on the 13th May from 10am - 5pm.Tickets are £8 for adults and £3.50 for children. For more information please visit: www.sustainability-centre. org/the-south-downs-green-fair.html

Slumdog Millionaire (15) - Friday 11th May

When a penniless, eighteen year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai comes within one question of winning a staggering 20 million rupees on India’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?, a police investigation reveals his amazing story. Slumdog Millionaire is the winner of 8 Academy Awards®, including Best Picture of the Year and Best Director, Danny Boyle. For more information and to buy tickets, please visit: www.filmonafarm.co.uk/films/slumdog-millionaire/ Gates open at 07:00PM and film starts at approximately 09:00PM.

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

Blinds - Awnings - Shutters

Romeo + Juliet (PG-13) - Saturday 12th May

In director Baz Luhrmann’s contemporary take on William Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, the Montagues and Capulets have moved their ongoing feud to the sweltering suburb of Verona Beach, where Romeo and Juliet fall in love and secretly wed.Though the film is visually modern, the bard’s dialogue remains. Gates open at 07:00PM and film starts at approximately 09:00PM. For more information please visit: www.filmonafarm.co.uk 50

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

High 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!

TO CELEBRATE

THE END OF WINTER

WE WILL PAY YOUR VAT Hurry offer must end 30th May

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

Great deals available on Double &Triple Glazed Windows Composite doors French doors Residential doors Secondary Glazing Fogged Double glazing Patio Doors Don't just take Repairs our word for it!

over 2,300 satisfied customers can’t be wrong

9.7

OUT OF

IWS customers can benefit from

Over 2300 Checkatrade reviews 10 Year insurance backed guarantees on all our products A rated Triple or double glazing Huge range of products in PVCu, timber, aluminium and timber alternative Stunning showrooms in Fareham, Chichester and Southampton Advanced Q-Lon weather seals High security door locks Repair and maintenance service Unrivalled experience and commitment to quality

01489 858090 ®

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.

H OME I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

Whatever you want to store...

Whatever your needs, long or short term

...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:

LUXURY FLO ORING SPECIALIST

T: 01962 735715

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

02392 384888

Offwell Farm, Southwick, Fareham PO17 6DX

Alresford:

01962 771993 Holden Farm, Cheriton, Alresford SO23 0NX

H OME I SSU E 3 2 | M AY

Choosing your residential property refurbishment partner is a big decision. We aim to ensure that the refurbishment of your home centres around you and your individual needs. With our extensive range of services, you can be sure we have plenty of options for you.

• Innovative designs to maximise your living space • A beautiful end result through quality workmanship

• Personal service where solutions are tailored to your requirements • Complete transparency in service and pricing

• Ongoing customer care as well as after care, once the work has been completed

For more information please contact Daniel Parker on:

info@morrisparker.co.uk

www.morrisparker.co.uk

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 2 | M AY

Church Services BISHOP'S WALTHAM O Catholic Church of Our Lady Queen of Apostles Sundays 09.30 Sunday Mass Saturdays 18.00 Evening Mass

O St. Peter's Sunday 6 May 08.00 BCP Communion 09.15 Parish Communion 09.15 Informal Service in Church Hall Sunday 13 May 08.00 BCP Communion 09.15 Parish Communion 09.15 Informal Service in Church Hall 18.30 Compline at The Blessed Mary, Upham Sunday 20 May 08.00 BCP Communion 09.15 Parish Communion 09.15 Informal Service in Church Hall Sunday 27 May 08.00 BCP Communion 09.15 Morning Worship 09.15 Informal Service with Communion in Church Hall 13.30 Wedding Service for James Carrs and Natasha Pierce Everyday 08.45 Morning Prayer Thursdays (except 10 & 24) 10.00 Midweek Communion followed by refreshments

CORHAMPTON

O Saxon Church Sunday 20 May 10.30 Holy Communion (CW) Sunday 27 May 08.00 Holy Communion (BCP)

DROXFORD

O St. Mary & All Saints Sunday 6 May 08.00 Holy Communion (BCP) Sunday 13 May 10.30 Holy Communion(CW) Sunday 20 May 10.00 Informal All-age service – Favourites

EXTON

O St. Peter & St. Paul Sunday 6 May 18.30 Rogation Evensong

Sunday 20 May 08.00 Holy Communion (BCP) Sunday 27 May 10.30 Holy Communion (CW)

MEONSTOKE

O St. Andrew's Sunday 6 May 10.30 Holy Communion (CW) Sunday 13 May 08.00 Holy Communion (BCP) 18.30 Fire Service Songs, Prayers & Readings Sunday 27 May 09.30 Bridging the Gap – Informal Inter Generational Service

HAMBLEDON

O Methodist Church Sunday 6 May 10:30 Morning Worship and Craft Sunday for children Sunday 13 May 10:30 Morning Worship Sunday 15 April 10:30 Morning worship with Grace Westerduin Friday 18 May 19:00 Prayer and Praise service with free fellowship supper Sunday 20 May 10:30 Morning Worship Sunday 27 May 10:30 Morning Worship O St Peter & Paul Sunday 6 May 08.00 Holy Communion 10.30 Parish Communion 18.30 Evensong Sunday 13 May 08.00 Holy Communion 10.30 Parish Communion 18.30 Evensong - 1st EP of Matthias the Apostle Sunday 20 May 08.00 Holy Communion 10.30 Parish Communion 18.30 Evensong Sunday 27 May 08.00 Holy Communion 10.00 Short Family Service 11.00 Mattins 18.30 Evensong

NEWTOWN

O Holy Trinity Church Sunday 13 May 09.30 Parish Holy Communion Sunday 27 May 10.00 Benefice Holy Communion in the Garden at Meonwood

SHEDFIELD

O St. John the Baptist Sunday 6 May 08.00 Holy Communion BCP

10.00 Parish Communion Sunday 13 May 08.00 Holy Communion BCP 10.00 Family Service Sunday 20 May 08.00 Holy Communion BCP 10.00 Family Holy Communion 18.00 Sung Evensong Sunday 27 May 08.00 Holy Communion BCP 10.00 Quiet Time Thursdays 10.00 Holy Communion in the Morrell Room

SHIRRELL HEATH

O Methodist Church Sunday 6 May 10.30 Morning Worship 18.00 Evening Worship Sunday 13 May 09.00 Breakfast Church Breakfast served from 09.00-09.45, followed by Family Worship until 10.30 18.00 Evening Worship Sunday 20 May 10.30 Morning Worship 18.00 Evening Worship Sunday 27 May 10.30 Morning Worship 18.00 Evening Worship with Holy Communion

SOBERTON

O St Peter's Church Sunday 6 May 10.00 Benefice Holy Communion with ROCS (for all children) Sunday 13 May 11.00 Matins Sunday 20 May 10.00 Benefice Holy Communion for Pentecost

SWANMORE

O St Barnabas Sunday 6 May 08.00 Eucharist 10.00 Joint service with Swanmore Methodist Church Sunday 13 May 08.00 Eucharist 10.00 Parish Eucharist inc Sunday Club Sunday 20 May 08.00 Eucharist 10.00 3rd@10 Cafe Church 18.30 Eucharist Sunday 27 May 08.00 Eucharist 10.00 Parish Eucharist inc Sunday Club Wednesdays 11.00 Eucharist Thursdays 08.15 Morning Prayer

Saturdays 12.00 Midday Prayer O Methodist Church Sunday 6 May 10.30 Morning Service at St Barnabas 18.00 Evening Service Sunday 13 May 10.30 Morning Service 18.00 Evening Service with Holy Communion Sunday 20 May 10.30 Morning Service with Holy Communion 18.00 Evening Service Sunday 27 May 10.00 Morning Service 18.00 Evening Service

UPHAM

O Church of the Blessed Mary Sunday 6 May 11.00 Parish Communion Sunday 13 May 11.00 Family Service 18.30 Compline Sunday 20 May 11.00 Parish Communion Sunday 27 May 11.00 Matins

WALTHAM CHASE O Waltham Chase Methodist Church Sunday 6 May 09.30 Family Breakfast 10.00 Family Worship 11.00 Worship & Word Sunday 13 May 10.30 Morning Worship Sunday 20 May 10.30 Morning Worship Sunday 27 May 10.30 Morning Worship

WARNFORD

O Church of Our Lady Sunday 6 May 09.00 Holy Communion (BCP) Sunday 13 May 09.00 Parish Communion Sunday 27 May 09.00 Mattins Morning Prayer is said in church at 9am on Saturdays

WEST MEON

O St. John the Evangelist Sunday 6 May 10.30 All Age Worship Sunday 13 May 10.30 Parish Communion Sunday 20 May 10.30 Joint Service of the Word Sunday 27 May 10.30 Parish Communion Morning Prayer is said in church at 9am on Wednesday and Thursdays

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