Meon Valley Forum - Issue 90 - May 2023

BISHOP'S WALTHAM / MEON VALLEY

Meonstoke – Offer invited in the region of £775,000 Freehold

Spacious family home lying in a picturesque village location in the heart of Meonstoke. The property, offers great potential to enhance further with some internal decorative modernisation and viewing is highly recommended. Inside, well proportioned accommodation with three reception rooms, kitchen, utility/boot room, cloakroom and two bathrooms to compliment the five bedrooms. There is a delightful enclosed rear garden and some lovely views out over the village countryside. Generous driveway parking and garage.

Swanmore – Guide Price £875,000 Freehold

Superbly situated detached family home, lying in a small bespoke setting with countryside views to the side and rear over open fields. The location offers the perfect opportunity to live in a delightful semi-rural setting on the edge of the South Downs National Park - whilst being within a short distance of the village amenities in Swanmore. Four bedrooms with, two en-suite shower rooms and a family bathroom. Double aspect sitting room, stylish kitchen/breakfast room and utility room. Dining area, conservatory, study and cloakroom. Detached double garage. Early interest and viewing advised.

VALLEY ESTATE & LETTINGS AGENTS

Shirrel Heath – Offers invited in excess of £1,000,000 Freehold

Exciting opportunity to purchase a small holding/equestrian property, set in approximately 5.3 Acres, with some super far reaching countryside views. The property lies within a semi-rural location and offers great potential for enhancement, further development/extension subject to the relevant consents. There is a substantial five bedroom detached house, a separate one/two bedroom annexe and an additional fully equipped garden studio room. Outside, the land, outbuildings, stables, garaging and woodland offer a perfect versatile opportunity for anyone to create their ideal space or use. - Early interest advised.

The Team

Editor

Mark Tubb editor@forumpublications.co.uk

Director of Advertising

Steve Walker stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

Director of Marketing Rob Harrison rob@forummedianddesign.co.uk

Advertising Manager Mandy Head mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk

Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk

Contributors

Feature Writer Mica Bale

Get in Touch

Forum Publications Offices New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QE Tel: 01962 735137 www.forumpublications.co.uk

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. 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. Meon Valley Forum magazine content does not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or recommendations of its creators and any reliance upon its content is taken at the user’s sole risk. Adverts designed by Forum Publications remain the magazine's legal ownership. Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household © Forum Publications Ltd, 2023

Adopt a proactive and pragmatic approach

The alarming headlines and figures over house price growth do not necessarily accurately reflect the levels of activity that we and other agents are seeing in our area.

There are good enquiries and increasing buyer confidence, and despite the Bank of England raising the rates some of the large lenders have lowered them.

If buyers and sellers can tune out the negative noise and keep in mind that purchasing a house is a long-term investment with the

The Hampshire Hedge launched with chance to double donations

The Hampshire Hedge is an ambitious new initiative by local countryside charity, CPRE Hampshire, to connect Hampshire’s two National Parks, the South Downs National Park and the New Forest National Park, with a nature recovery corridor of hedgerow. As part of the launch, the project has been selected as one of only 150 charities across the UK to take part in the ‘Big Give Green Match Campaign’. Any charity donations for The Hampshire Hedge from Thursday 20th to 27th April are matched by the Big Give and doubled. Hedgerows play an enormously important role in boosting biodiversity, capturing carbon, improving food production and enhancing our rural community. The countryside has lost over half of all hedgerows since 1945 and CPRE Hampshire believe it’s time to turn this around. The charity has already worked for several years on restoration of hedgerows across the Hampshire countryside, educating and working with local communities, schools, landowners and farmers. The Hampshire Hedge will wind its way through the central heart of Hampshire parishes and link woodlands, meadows, local nature reserves and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). It will start from Copythorne in the New Forest and finish at Compton, on the edge of the South Downs, near Winchester. Ellie Banks, Hedgerow Officer at CPRE Hampshire, explains: “The Hampshire Hedge offers communities a great opportunity to work together to restore and plant hedges in their local areas. We provide training on the traditional crafts of hedgelaying and offer some great resources to help communities learn surveying and hedgerow management to achieve the full benefits of their rich offerings.”

Donations can be made online at https://donate.biggive.org/ campaign/a056900002PonpKAAR or by using the link on the CPRE Hampshire homepage, www.cprehampshire.org.uk.

To find out more about CPRE Hampshire hedgerow work and The Hampshire Hedge you can visit the website or email ellie.banks@ cprehampshire.org.uk.

inevitable short-term fluctuations, then they will likely benefit from an expected upward trend over the next five to ten years. Whilst a proactive, pragmatic and patient approach is required in the current market, an experienced estate agent will navigate it to ensure the very best outcome for you!

For expert advice on property sales, lettings or management call the team here at The Country House Company. Kate Porter or Claudia Hunt on 01730 771222.

Head of Sales - Kate Porter katep@countryhousecompany.co.uk

Head of Lettings - Claudia Hunt claudia@countryhousecompany.co.uk

Head of ManagementMarishelle Butler marishelle@countryhousecompany.co.uk

Contact us on 01730 771222 www.countryhousecompany.co.uk

Elections for Winchester City Council district and parish elections are scheduled to take place on Thursday 4 May 2023. Some key dates to rememeber for the election include:

17 April - last day to register to vote (if you're not already registered) to register to vote visit: https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

18 April - 5pm: last day to apply for a postal vote, to find how to register visit: https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/voter/ apply-vote-post

25 April - 5pm: last day to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate (only needed if you don't have photo ID that still looks like you). For more information on this visit: https://www.winchester.gov.uk/ elections/voter-id

25 April - 5pm: last day to apply for a proxy vote. For information on applying for a proxy vote visit: https://www.winchester.gov.uk/elections/ absent-votes

This year, the government has introduced Voter ID to be able to vote at elections. Your usual photo ID will be accepted (even if it's out of date as long as it still looks like you) If you dont have suitable ID, then you can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate - the city council can help you do this if you need support. contact ereg@winchester.gov.uk or phone 01962 848125.

Find out more information on the city council's website : www. winchester.gov.uk/news/2023/mar/this-year-s-elections-keyinformation

Kate Porter Sales

Marishelle Butler Management

Claudia Hunt Lettings

This Year's Elections - key information from Winchester City Council

Bespoke Kitchens & Furniture

Happy Kitchens have a unique approach when it comes to kitchens and custom spaces in the home. We use excellent quality materials which are fitted by exshipwright joiners, who used to fit the woodwork on Super Yachts. That in itself is unique in our industry but then add in the fact that we are bespoke, but don’t charge the inflated prices that your highend high street showrooms do, gives us the recipe for your perfect home solution. This is why we are one of the highest rated home improvement companies on HOUZZ, beating all the top names you might recognise when walking down your high street.

We have never had less than a 5 star

review and have won the HOUZZ best of service award every year since it has been running. The staff at HOUZZ reference us to other companies as to how customer service should be done. Many of our customers have used us 2 or 3 times due to moving house or tackling other projects in their existing houses.

We do not have a template for design and take a fresh approach with every customer. It is important to take all the best ideas a customer has, then bring in the experience we have to offer, and often our ideas will be completely different to any other companies as we are innovative and bespoke. We often hear that customers have had designs and quotes that all look the same, are boring and

un-exciting, yet expensive. This is because most high street ‘kitchen designers’ are just salespeople with no idea on how a kitchen works.

Bespoke sizing - Media walls, boot rooms, custom offices, installed by ex shipwright joiners with exceptional attention to detail

So whether you need an amazing Kitchen, Utility, Bedroom, coffee bar with custom pod storage, Office, Media wall or Living Room storage we can help. The design visits are free of charge, and we can quote on the same day. Also Ben loves design, so often at no extra charge, he will help you choose paint colours, light fittings, Bar stools, artwork and can even recommend great pots and pans.

One of the top reviewed companies on Houzz, offering free home design visits

“Thisisthesecondtimewehaveused HappyKitchensandonceagainweare overthemoonwiththeresults! Thelevelofworkmanshipisjust outstanding,theguyswereapleasure tohaveinthehouse,Wewon’thesitate tocontinuetorecommendHappy Kitchenstoanyonelookingforanew kitchen.Highlyrecommend!”

Anna and Hugh Cutler, May 22

T: 01489 339177

W: happykitchens.uk

Our customers will often use us again, and recommend us to Family and Friends. The quote from the review above was from a customer who has chosen us twice, and their parents also have a Happy Kitchen, and two of the parents' friends.

“HappyKitchens.WOWWOW WOW.Thankyousomuchforgiving usthewowfactorweaskedfor.”

The McAdams – June 21

The biggest compliment we get from our customers is always around our attention to detail and often bringing something completely different to the table. If you are still unsure after reading this, go and read some of our reviews on our Happy Kitchens Houzz profile, and do a search of kitchen companies on there by review rating, we are always close to the top of the list.

Out-of-the-box thinking, bespoke design features, and friendly staff with excellent attention to detail are just a few of the reasons you should call us today. If that isn’t enough please do remember that the design visit is free of charge, so you have nothing to lose.

Redundancies: tips for employers

The stark economic reality of the recent inflation and energy prices, together with the poor predictions from the IMF, mean some businesses are struggling. It is no surprise therefore that some are considering whether redundancies are one way to help the business survive and thrive. Employers preparing for redundancies should be mindful of the need to ensure they follow a fair redundancy process.

Employers are advised to seek legal advice before embarking on a redundancy process but a few additional tips for employers to consider are as follows:

• Look carefully at your groups, or ‘pools’ of employees when considering who may be ‘at risk’ of redundancy – consider not only what their title is but what they actually do day-to-day.

• Do not forget about accrued untaken annual leave – this could be

an extra cost that employers sometimes forget about. Can your staff use up this leave or will it be accrued and untaken on termination? Best to plan ahead so you can give appropriate notice if you are wanting your staff to use up their holiday entitlement.

• Managing the shock of a redundancy process – consultation can cover more than just looking for alternatives to hopefully avoid the redundancy situation. It can also help to inform the employee about what the process looks like, how long it’s expected to last, and how the redundancy calculations are worked out if employees are made redundant. Employees often ask what they would be entitled to if they are made redundant.

• Check your employees’ contracts of employment but also their years of service – the contract you are using for your staff may be out of date or incorrect so may not reflect the correct notice period. Employees are entitled to minimum statutory notice periods unless their contract gives them more.

If you require advice on any aspect of a redundancy process or would like some guidance to take you through a process from start to finish, we are here to help.

Please do contact Linda Wilson on 01730 268211 or lsw@macdonaldoates.co.uk

Linda Wilson - Partner at Mac Donald Oates Solicitors

Practical. Accurate. Friendly.

Life doesn’t stand still. Some events you can predict, plot and carefully plan for. Others come out of the blue and send you reeling. Whatever you’re facing, we’re here to help.

Hampshire residents encouraged to nominate a charity to receive share of £1million

Residents in Hampshire can nominate a good cause to receive £1,000 as part of Benefact Group’s Movement for Good Awards. Now in its fifth year, the Movement for Good Awards will once again see more than £1million gifted to charities up and down the UK and Ireland.

Since the awards began, people in Hampshire have submitted over 55,100 nominations and 70 Hampshire based charities have benefited from valuable donations. While the pandemic and the current economic climate has had an adverse effect on cash donations, the amount of people choosing to volunteer their time for a good cause is rising1. From today, Hampshire residents can give a minute to nominate a charity online at www.movementforgood.com.

The Movement for Goods Awards has gifted over £4million to charities in the UK and Ireland since the initiative started. Winners will be drawn at random and the more times a charity is nominated the more chance it has of being selected. 150 winning charities will be announced from 1 June,

Free workshop for parents facing divorce and separation

Free workshop for parents facing divorce and separation

Trethowans are hosting a free workshop on 14 June 2023 at Hotel du Vin, Winchester, for parents facing divorce or separation. The workshop will consist of two sessions from 9.15am to 2.15pm. Session one will be taken by Child Psychotherapist Ashley Palmer, who will provide you with practical tools for developing an effective co-parenting relationship. Session two will include talks from Petra Brunzell (Divorce Coach), Nikki Emerton (Lifestyle Coach) and a House of Colour specialist who will concentrate on your personal wellbeing and will give you the tools you need to make positive steps forward into you and your family’s new life.

with a further 150 revealed in September. Further gifts will be awarded throughout the year.

Mark Hews, Group Chief Executive at Benefact Group, says: “We are immensely proud to be supporting many hundreds of charities through our Movement for Good Awards for the fifth year running. We know that £1,000 can make a huge difference so we’re asking that people give a minute of their time to nominate a cause they care about to receive an award. Owned by a charity ourselves, charitable giving is at the heart of what we do and all of our available profits go to good causes. With financial strain continuing to impact many households the Movement for Good Awards represents a great way for people to continue to support causes close to their hearts, without worrying about an additional cost. Any charity can win no matter how large or small and even with just one nomination. So find a minute, jump online and nominate – because that small amount of time is invaluable for charities.”

Practical. Accurate. Friendly.

Benefact Group has donated almost £200million to charitable causes since 2014 and has just been recognised as the third biggest corporate giver in the UK2. The organisation aims to reach £250million in donations by 2025.

Movement for Good is funded by EIO plc, part of the Benefact Group. Visit www.movementforgood.com to nominate a charity now

Come and Sing Workshop and Concert

The New Beginnings workshop will:

• Give you workable strategies to enable your child to express their emotions and most importantly, show you how to respond

Life doesn’t stand still. Some events you can predict, plot and carefully plan for. Others come out of the blue and send you reeling. Whatever you’re facing, we’re here to help.

• Enable you to promote the emotional and psychological wellbeing of your children

• Provide tools for developing an effective co-parenting relationship

• Tap into your innate self-confidence and strength

• Improve self-esteem and self-belief

• Give you coping strategies to take away

• Help you choose the right legal process for you and your family.

Saturday 20th May from 10.00am – 4.00pm and 6.00pm. St Peter's Parish Church, Bishop's Waltham SO32 1PW.

Anyone who likes to sing, or would like to have a go at singing for fun in a one day choir is welcome to sign up for the workshop. You don't need to be a great singer, just an enthusiastic one! You will learn and practise singing popular songs with a group of like-minded people under the direction of a professional choirmaster. Our songs this year include Hallelujah, Non Nobis Domine, Fields of Gold and Abba. Lunch is available for singers for an additional fee of £7. In the evening there is a short concert open to your family and friends and the general public where you and the choir will perform the songs of the day.

023 8032 1000 trethowans com

Charges: Workshop: £10 - Concert: FREE entry. Refreshments of wine / soft drinks and nibbles will be available. Doors open at 6.00pm.

For more information on this free workshop or to book your free place, please call 01962 673 866 or email familyevents@ trethowans.com.

From 1st March paper entry forms for the workshop are available from Best Wishes, Brook Street, BW., and on-line entry forms by contacting email: veck1948@gmail.com

Your Own Brewery?

Fabulous opportunity to run your own brewery which has just undergone extensive refurbishment. The brewery comes fully equipped and capable of brewing in excess of 20,000 pints per week, good office accommodation, substantial cold room, situated in a modern industrial building in Alresford and ready to brew immediately. No ingoing costs and long initial rent-free period.

For further details telephone

Simon on 07831 340022

ABOUT THE DIRECTOR

Leanne spent a decade working in the NHS before setting up her first clinic in 2009, the award winning Face and Skin Clinic in Wickham. A passionate and experienced clinician, Leanne has over 20,000 treatments (and counting!) under her. Leanne is committed to preserving your own unique features, while highlighting your natural beauty.

LEANNE HAWKINS (NURSE DIRECTOR AND OWNER)

HYDRAFACIAL

The unique HydraFacial philosophy of Skin Health For Life is not just about improving the appearance of the skin, but truly restoring youth and vitality. It uses an advanced, six step process to deeply cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate for the ultimate glow. Clean, radiant, and healthier looking skin never goes out of style.

Classic Hydrafacial: £120 (Course of six: £600)

Hydrafacial with Obagi pigmentation booster: £180

Hydrafacial with Obagi Rosacea booster: £180

LASER HAIR REMOVAL

Saddle House Medi-Spa offers the quickest and most effective pain-free laser for ultimate hair reduction results and maximum patient comfort without any discolouration of the skin. Laser hair removal treatment is conducted every 4 – 8 weeks, depending on the area treated, until a satisfactory result is achieved.

6x Full Back & Shoulder: £900 (Saving £300)

Medical Facial Aesthetics, Microneedling, Pain Free Laser Hair Removal, Skin Tightening, Hydrafacial, Skin Tag & Thread Vein Removal, Pigmentation Treatments, Chemical Peels, Beauty & Massage, Skincare & Packages.

6x Half Leg, Full Brazilian & Underarm: £1461 (Saving £507)

6x Full leg, Standard Bikini & Underarm: £1595 (Saving £589)

SKIN & BEAUTY EXPERTS

SKIN & BEAUTY EXPERTS

Get the glow with a Hydrafacial!

TREATMENTS INCLUDE:

TREATMENTS INCLUDE:

Medical Facial Aesthetics, Microneedling, Pain Free Laser Hair Removal, Skin Tightening, Hydrafacial, Skin Tag & Thread Vein Removal, Pigmentation Treatments, Chemical Peels, Beauty & Massage, Skincare & Packages.

Medical Facial Aesthetics, Microneedling, Pain Free Laser Hair Removal, Skin Tightening, Hydrafacial, Skin Tag & Thread Vein Removal, Pigmentation Treatments, Chemical Peels, Beauty & Massage, Skincare & Packages.

Nurse led Medi-Spa of Excellence

Nurse led Medi-Spa of Excellence

Private parking in a beautiful location

Private parking in a beautiful location

BOOK YOUR BESPOKE CONSULTATION NOW

BOOK YOUR BESPOKE CONSULTATION NOW

Tel: 02380 518558

Tel: 02380 518558

www.saddlehouse.co.uk

www.saddlehouse.co.uk

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Western Court, Bishop's Sutton, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0AA

Western Court, Bishop's Sutton, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0AA

Traditional Values, Exceptional Service

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

May Events

Wickham Coronation Street Party

Saturday 6th May

From 10am to 7pm Wickham Square

Bishop's Waltham Celebrates The King's Coronation

info):folkclubhambledon@ hotmail.co.uk Tel (reservations and info): 023 9263 2719

Venue address: The Youth Hut, West Street, Hambledon PO7 4RW(adjacent Village Hall and next to The Vine pub).

Fancy a Bop

Thursday 11th May

From 2pm - 4pm St Peter's Church Hall, Bishop's Waltham, SO32 1EE

Friday 26th to Mon 29th May

From 10am to 4pm

Physic Garden, High St, Petersfield, GU32 3JJ

paintings, prints and cards at The Physic Garden in Petersfield from the 26th-29th May. An opportunity to see captivating expressive landscapes and enjoy picking up an original artwork for your home. Open 10am - 4pm https://suecolyer.com instagram @suecolyerart - https://gilldrew. co.uk instagram @gilldrewart

Give and Take Bishop's Waltham

Saturday 27th May

dobbie horse, sitting in the sun and chilling for the afternoon listening to awesome music, admiring the vehicles from days gone by. Saturday 27th May | 7pm - 10pm, Sunday 28th May | 10am-10pm, Monday 29th May | 10am-6pm, Petersfield Town Centre

Half Term Fun: Gods & Monsters at Butser Ancient Farm

Sat 27th May to Sun 4th June

From 10am to 4pm

Chalton Ln, Chalton, Waterlooville PO8 0BG

Sunday 7th May

From 12pm to 4pm Bishop's Waltham Palace, Bishop's Waltham, Southampton, SO32 1DH

The Big Lunch - Pack a picnic, rug or garden chair and join us at The Grounds of Bishop's Waltham Palace. Everyone is welcome to this free event. Music and entertianment throughout the afternoon. For further details please email: admin@ bishopswaltham-pc.org.uk

Tel: 01489 892323

Hambledon Folk Club -

Winter Wilson

WEDNESDAY 10 MAY A

welcome return to Hambledon of this first-class duo. Now in their 10th year as full-time musicians, Kip Winter and Dave Wilson bring a sense of intimacy to every venue, blending superb, often hard-hitting original songs, stunning harmonies and musicianship with sometimes hilarious humour and tales of life on the road. 8.30pm start (doors open 8.00pm)

Entry: £12.00 (£10.00 members, £6.00 under 18s and students)

For reservations phone: 02392 632719 or email folkclubhambledon@hotmail. co.uk https://winterwilson.com 2023 -www.hambledonfolkclub. com Email (reservations and

Come and join us to boogie the afternoon away. Music from the 1950s, 60s, 70s, 80s and some later! Tea and coffee provided. We encourage requests, and it's all FREE, though donations are accepted! Everyone welcome. Contacts: fancyabop@gmail.com and Website: https://sites.google. com/view/fab-fancyabop/

Watercress Festival

From 10.30am to 2.30pm St George’s Square, Bishop’s Waltham

Help us to reduce waste in our town! A free exchange stall you can give, you can take, or you can give and take. The theme for the May Give & Take is DIY and Garden Tools, Equipment and Materials. For further information and regular updates about this event Visit: www. lovebishopswaltham.com Email: bishopswalthamtownteam@ gmail.com Follow our Facebook page at: Bishop’s Waltham What’s On. Brought to you by The Bishop’s Waltham Town Team

Explore Ancient Myths & Legends! Activities free with your admission! Normal entrance prices apply. Join us this summer half term for an action-packed week filled with ancient activities! A great day out that’s fun for all the family — even the dog! There’s heaps to see and do every day — follow our free children’s trail to discover the gods and monsters from ancient myths and legends, get stuck in with handson ancient skills activities, explore our ancient buildings, and more! An incredible family day out, all activities are completely free with your admission. Become an annual passholder for a completely free day out!*

Sunday 21st May

From 10am to 4pm Alresford Town Centre

Nationally acclaimed annual free festival (parking charges apply) to celebrate all things watercress. From street markets, food & drink stalls, cookery demonstrations, the Hampshire Farmers Market, a "Kids Zone" featuring Punch & Judy and Circus Skills, there really is something for everyone. www.watercressfestival.org

Expressive Landscapes at the Physic Garden Petersfield

Artists Sue Colyer and Gill Drew are exhibiting contemporary watercolours and acrylic

Petersfield Spring Festival

Sat 27th to Mon 29th May

Sat 7-10pm, Sun 10am to 10pm Mon 10am -6pm Petersfield Town Centre

We can't wait to bring you the first Petersfield Spring Festival organised as Petersfield Community Events for 2023. The Petersfield Spring Festival will be awesome, as you have to come to expect in previous years, but with added excitement and love for enjoying a drink and a dance with your loved ones, browsing the quality stalls for a special gift or treat, letting the children have a ride on a vintage

Half Term Activities - Follow a free trail around the farm to discover the gods and monsters of ancient mythology! Get hands-on and learn an ancient skill like spinning or carving chalk. More demonstrations and activities announced nearer the time! For more information visit: www. butserancientfarm.co.uk

Soberton Open Gardens

Sunday 11th June

From 10.30am to 5pm

The Church Green, Soberton, SO32 3PF

Admission by progamme £6.50. Cream Teas from 12.30pm in the Church Rooms. All proceeds to the Rotary Roundabout at the Rainbow Centre, Fareham.

Welcome to the Home of BBQ

If you enjoy BBQ then we’re your kind of place! With over 30 years’ experience we know a thing or two about it and would love to share our passion with you. In store we stock all the major brands and then some, so whether you’re looking to sear, smoke, roast, braise, skewer, rotisserie, bake or just plain grill then we have you covered. Come and join us on a Saturday and experience a free demo day or sign up to one of our assorted BBQ Masterclasses. We look forward to seeing y’all soon. Did I mention we stock Yeti? It’s worth dropping in just to view their range!

T: 02380 788155 E: sales@socal.co.uk W: socalbbqshop.co.uk

sizzlefest 16 sept 2023 tickets visit sizzlefest.co.uk

@socalbbqshop

Mongrel against Mortal

Is there ever a good time to bathe the dog? Claws clenched, soap suds scattered, threats thundered and suddenly your beloved pride and joy turns from the weight of a miniature dachshund to the lumbering load of a Great Dane. And yet the arrival of guests is always a harbinger of bad tidings - for furry-coated, four-footed friends, that is, with an inbuilt dislike of any body of water that doesn’t resemble a muddy puddle.

It begins with a whisper, a mere baby’s breath upon the wind. The unsuspecting canine is stretched out blissfully unaware of the endless hoovering, cleaning, dusting and its own contribution to the general aroma that is tolerable for family though evidently insufferable for guests, distinguished or otherwise.

But an atmosphere is brewing. Maybe it's the anticipation before the battle, or perhaps it's the slightly too cheerful tone with which the dog’s name is called. The family is poised, one at every exit point, bent double, hands on knees and faces fixed with an expression that would wilt even the most hardened Sunday side rugby player. The canine is cornered.

The hound knows when it is being hunted. Escape is impossible but suddenly the gap under the sofa provides the perfect sanctuary. The battle lines have been drawn; mongrel against mortal.

There is a certain kind of indignity that all dog owners are exposed to with downright alarming regularity. Bath time is no exception. Scuba diving under one’s sofa to retrieve the family pet is not what anyone signed up for and such skills were certainly never mentioned at the adoption agency. Nutritional facts and figures must be able to be quoted backwards and high visibility dog collars must be purchased and yet the willingness to stand out in the rain to allow for a canine comfort break, to fill every jacket and coat pocket with scented small bags and to perfect one’s ability to throw sticks perfectly was never discussed.

Green eyes glint dangerously under the sofa and a low growl omits from the void. Pound coins are pocketed favourably and crumbs are pushed aside. Slowly one hand is extended and with it a bribe - a handful of salty dog chews, as pungent as the aroma due to be addressed. The canine is not stupid and yet a moment’s distraction is all the advantage an experienced dog owner needs. A vice-like grip is swiftly tightened around the dog’s collar. Slowly the extradition process begins.

Cheers like those for a sporting hero shooting the winning goal erupt in the household. The battle has been won but the war is far from over. Mutinous curses and threats are projected from the captured pup. The indignity has

switched from hunter to hunted. Perhaps there is such a thing as retribution.

Each step towards the bathtub becomes increasingly difficult as the hound lowers its centre of gravity and weighs heavier, fidgeting restlessly in your arms. If the dog had any doubt as to its impending fate then the instruments of torture laid out in the bathroom were enough to convince her that any chance of clemency was well and truly without real foundation. Instruments of torture in the form of the fluffiest towel the family owned, the most expensive dog shampoo the pet shop could sell and more than a handful of dog treats.

But to the family dog, stripped of all hope and ready to descend into despair, there was but one solution. Howl! Perhaps it was a final farewell to all the dogs in the neighbourhood, perhaps it was a tribute to Sydney Carton, ‘A far far wetter thing I…’

The moment had arrived. One paw, two paws, three paws and a tail and before too long, you have a wet dog and a death warrant on your hands, all in the name of sweetening the aroma for the guests. By this time, both dog and assigned dog washer are unified in the mutual dislike of said guests and the disruption they have caused, albeit unwittingly. Do curtains really need washing for afternoon tea guests? Does the dog really need a claw inspection complete with a shampoo and set?

Hope can be a cruel mistress. There is a moment of misplaced triumph when the drone of the shower is silenced and the flow of water abruptly stops. The hound looks heartened, forgetful of the next stage of this journey into hell. The drying process. To towel dry and risk unbelievable frizz or to painstakingly use the hair dryer on a constant cool shot? The options are limited but so is the time before the guests arrive. A quick towel dry and a gentle blast with the dryer it is then.

Finally, not before time, the dog is released from its watery prison and allowed to have a mad half hour, skidding into every family member to give an excited greeting and to showcase the flowy locks of newly washed fur. Life is good for the four-footed member of the family. For the rest of the household, the troubles are far from over. Time to count the casualties.

A quick glance out the window reveals the figures of the early guests arriving up the path. Could peace not last for even a moment? Panicked shouts from the kitchen answer otherwise ‘Quick! Get the paper towels! That damned dog!’ Maybe the mongrel won the war after all.

Written by Mica Bale

FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1973 BUILT ON GREAT SERVICE & VALUE FOR MONEY

Please visit our website for all the latest news, information, second-hand machines for sale and special offers in the showroom.

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.

Tel: 01962 771800

steve.cann@btconnect.com www.georgecanngardenmachinery.co.uk

Harko: 07710 502798

Tom: 07855 656984 www.bosque international.co.uk

LACEYS FARM, BRAMDEAN, ALRESFORD, HAMPSHIRE, SO24 0JT

South Downs Green Fair

Sunday 7th May 2023 from 10am to 5pm

Volunteers join forces to tackle litter across Winchester County Council area

The Green Fair offers plenty of activities for all. Circus skills, bushcraft demonstrations and outdoor cooking along with a wide variety of free children's activities. With local food and drink stalls offering Fair Trade and organic wares it's a great family day out. There will be vegan and vegetarian meals from many of the food stalls. Music from local and national bands, interesting presentations and talks from leading speakers on practical, greener ways of living will also be part of the day. If you want a chance to connect with other local people involved in sustainability, or enjoy good music with beer and food thrown in, it's a day that promises all of that and more.

A Truly "Green" Green Fair

A fantastic family day out with a difference, whatever the weather. A truly eye opening event, where you can connect with other people involved in practical sustainability. Our Green Fair Charter is a promise from our stall holders that they will recycle everything and not use things like one use plastic at our event. Our aim is to eliminate rubbish that goes to landfill.

Live A Greener Life

You will find lots of ideas and ways to live a "Greener Life", from quick fixes to understanding the bigger issues facing the planet. There are demonstrations, talks and guided walks. Also you will find ethical shopping, amazing food stalls, our vegetarian cafe, local organic produce, renewable technology, green communities, Fair Trade stands, rural crafts and course tasters.

Relax And Enjoy

For your entertainment we have the music stage with live music all day right next to the local ales bar. There are free children's activities all day and you can join in with our circus skills tent, or visit The Sustainability Centre stand and learn about human bicycle power. What could be better!

Sustainability Centre Friends

Our Friends get FREE entry to The South Downs Green Fair. It's quick and simple to join and as a gift you will receive your pewter Hare badge. There are lots of perks and the wonderful feel good factor of being part of our special supporters. Becoming a volunteer is another option which gets you free entry to The Green Fair.

Fundraising

The Green Fair is one of our major fundraising events of the year. The Sustainability Centre is owned and managed by Earthworks Trust Charity No. 1079866

Sustainability Centre, Droxford Road, Nr East Meon, Petersfield Hants, GU32 1HR Tel: 01730 823166

Volunteers from across the Winchester area are joining forces to tackle the problem of litter left strewn across roadsides, lanes, and public spaces. Over ten villages in Winchester district now work in cooperation with The Litter Partnership, which was founded by Tom Bristowe several years ago after he moved to Upham and was shocked by the amount of litter by the roadside. Supported by Winchester City Council’s street scene contractor, idverde, and countryside charity CPRE, the partnership also works with a growing number of other organisations, including the University of Winchester, Corhampton Golf Club, the Army Training Regiment, VolkerFitzpatrick, Southern Water and local scout groups. Every week teams of volunteers collect dozens of bags of rubbish from across the area. One group is even collecting cans across the district and trading in the metal to raise money for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

Explaining how the partnership started, Tom (pictured to the left) said: “After moving to the countryside, I was just astonished and shocked by the rubbish that people chucked out of their car windows and on to the sides of roads.

“Once you have your eye in, you can’t stop seeing the litter and you see it all the time everywhere.

“One Sunday morning I thought I would go out and start clearing it up and picked up a couple of bags of rubbish. It became quite addictive as it’s very satisfying.

“I litter-picked a few times and thought there was no way I could tackle the problem alone. So I thought I would try to encourage as many people as possible to help out, which is when The Litter Partnership was born.

“Apart from litter-picking regularly with a local group, my role is as a convener of people. I’ve found myself at the centre of an increasing large web of individuals who recognise the litter problem and want to do something about it. I help give them routes to do that.”

Tom is now looking at a long-term solution to the litter issue and is working with behaviour change experts with a view to launching a major social media campaign in South Hampshire.

For more information about The Litter Partnership visit thelitterpartnership.org or to get in touch via email hello@ thelitterpartnership.org

Patios • Paths • Decks • Drives • Gates

• Gardens • Gazebos • Fencing • Pergolas

• Trelliage • Water Features • Planting

• Lawns • Oak Framed Barns & Home Offices

Elite

Thai Tom Yum Goong

SERVES 2

INGREDIENTS

• 12 oz. large prawns, head-on and shell-on (shelled prawns can be used if you prefer)

• 2 1/2 cups shrimp stock (preferred) or canned chicken stock

• 1 stalk lemongrass cut into 3-inch strips, pounded with a cleaver

• 3 slices galangal (available whole or as a paste in supermarkets)

• 6 kaffir fresh lime leaves (alternatively use dried available in most supermarkets)

• 6 bird's eyes chilies pounded

• 6 fresh oyster mushrooms cut into pieces

• 2 tablespoons nam prik pao Thai roasted chili paste (readily available online)

• 3 teaspoons fish sauce (available in most supermarkets)

• 3 1/2 tablespoons lime juice

• Coriander leaves for garnishing

METHOD

Peel the shell and head off the prawns, keep the tails on. Save the shell and prawn head. De-vein the prawns and set aside. For those who prefer their prawns prepared, uncooked shelled prawns are readily available in most supermarkets.

In a pot, bring 3 cups of water to boil. Add the prawn head and shell to make prawn stock. Boil until the water turns slightly orange in color. Press the prawns heads with a spatula to extract the juice from the heads. Simmer and let the stock reduce to 2 1/2 cups. Drain the prawn stock and discard the prawn heads and shells.

Turn the heat to high and add the lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, bird's eye chilies, mushroom, nam prik pao to the prawn stock. Bring it to boil.

Add in the prawns and fish sauce. Lastly, add the lime juice (if you add lime juice too early, the soup might turn bitter). Boil until the prawns are cooked, dish out, and garnish with cilantro leaves.

Serve immediately.

Dad’s smokin’ hot this Father’s Day

We’re bringing you not one, but two Season cookery classes in the stunning grounds of Lainston House’s kitchen garden this Father’s Day. If you think dad would like to learn some extra skills on the grill or enjoy some traditional pizza,w we have just the treat!

King of the Grill

Perfect your barbecue game and whip up specialities to re-create and impress friends and family at the next barbecue. From steak cooked directly on the coals, and local ChalkStream trout cooked on a cedar plank.

Saturday 17th June, 10am to 3pm, £195 per person

Papa Pizza

Papa and their bambinos can throw some dough and have oodles of fun, whilst spending the morning or afternoon perfecting the traditional Neapolitan pizza in our woodfired ovens. After learning the tips and tricks (and probably getting covered in flour!), you can tuck into your creations with a bottle of beer or juice.

Sunday 18th June, 10am to 12pm or 2pm to 4pm £95 for one adult and up to two children

01962 776088

lainstonhouse@exclusive.co.uk

seasoncookeryschool.co.uk

Bishop's Waltham Rotary Club April News

Wessex Heartbeat Cycle Sportive

aiding with the initial purchase of Heartbeat house which is a "Home from Home" for the relatives of those undergoing Cardiac Treatment at Southampton General Hospital, and is only a 3 minute walk from the cardiac wards, this close association has again been recently renewed with many of the Rotary Clubs in our local District

world, causing a devastating effect on food supply and food stability for Purple Community Fund beneficiaries and those benefiting from their feeding programmes. In 2021 they started two communal vegetable farms and in January 2022 they began a pilot egg production farm with 25 chickens. In June they took delivery of their first 200 ready to lay hens, and in August they purchased a further 400.

Bishop’s Waltham Rotary Club have pledged £500 as part of a District 1110 plan to supply more chickens and build safe housing for them, to ensure there is a continued plentiful supply of eggs.

On a cold wet morning in mid-March several members of Bishop’s Waltham Rotary club turned out to help with the running of the annual Wessex Heartbeat Cycle Sportive. The event had two routes available of either 40 or 70 miles and the intrepid cyclists, including a couple of Tandem pairs, set out to brave the inclement weather, all in aid of Wessex Heartbeat. Wessex Heartbeat is a local charity that helps new-borns, children and adults diagnosed with congenital and cardiovascular diseases primarily by supporting the work of the Wessex Cardiac Unit based at Southampton General Hospital. This is achieved by providing specialised equipment, services and facilities to help patients and their relatives through their cardiac journey.

Local Rotary Clubs have a long history of supporting Wessex Heartbeat, primarily in

pledging to support their work and an upgrade of the house over the next 3 years.

Purple Community Fund –Free Range Chickens

Our local Rotary District 1110 has a long association with the Purple Community Fund, a grass roots UK registered charity in the Philippines. We as part of District 1110 have supported them over the years helping them fund their work with the poorest of the poor living in Tondo, Manila, Naic, Cavite Baguio and Bulacan in the Philippines. They began their work 20 years ago reaching out to communities living in extreme crisis situations, unable to provide for their most basic needs and without hope or the ability to change their futures. They provided holistic services in education, livelihood and business skills, farming, health clinics, nutrition and social welfare. They believe everyone deserves a chance to thrive and prosper.

To this end we have raised funds to support a drive to increase their ability to produce their own food, which became necessary during the Pandemic, where the local response was one of the strictest in the

Dates for your Diary

The main event of our fundraising year, our annual, and eagerly anticipated, Bishop’s Waltham Rotary Club Family Funday & Motorcade Procession, including our ever popular Dog Show will be held at Hoe Road Recreation Ground on Saturday the 10th of June from 12:30 – 5:00pm. Put the date in your diary to come along for a great day out, and if you would like to get involved or have a stall, contact us via our website.

Like our Facebook page or take a look at our website for updates on what is going on, what we have been up to and how you can help us help others!

pr@bishopswalthamrotary.org.uk

We meet on the second and fourth Thursdays each month - 7 for 7.30pm Wickham Golf Club, Titchfield Road, Wickham PO17 5PJ

Bishops Waltham Rotary Club

Bishop’s Waltham Rotarian Ian Treveil and Wessex Heartbeat CEO Mark Ind briefing intrepid cyclist before they set out.

St Swithun’s School Scoops Pioneering Mental Health Award

St Swithun’s is a school that places a large focus on its mental health and wellbeing provisions, and this was recently honoured when the school celebrated achieving the School Mental Health Award.

This award delivered by the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools, was the highest level, gold standard, and was in recognition for the school’s outstanding mental health and wellbeing provision.

The school provides a wide range of initiatives to enhance the wellbeing of pupils and staff, with a key element of the support for pupils being the bespoke and unique Positive Education programme which focuses on feeling good, doing good and functioning well. Led by clinical psychologist, Dr. O’Connor, alongside Mr Graham Yates (pastoral deputy head) it is an evidence-based approach to wellbeing, character development and enhancing academic achievement that not only seeks to alleviate and prevent mental health challenges but builds the resilience and

mental toughness the pupils need to be the best they can be. All pupils have access to a bespoke student wellbeing website created and updated by the school and a wellbeing hub, an online portal with a range of resources and advice available to support pupils, parents, and staff.

The Positive Education programme also incorporates a five-week course for parents which helps strengthen the link between school and home and supports parents in helping their children to thrive. Other elements of wellbeing are routinely shared through parent talks, the parent portal, and The Wellbeing Hub.

A key element of achieving the Gold Award is the degree to which good practice is shared in the wider community to support others. Dr O’Connor and Mr Yates have presented the wellbeing programme at national teacher conferences, to members of the NHS and to over 20 Prep school headteachers last year, as well as publishing articles in the national arena.

St Swithun’s deputy head pastoral, Graham Yates said: “Offering outstanding pastoral care to our pupils is at the heart of what we do at St Swithun’s. We aim to create an

environment in which all girls can flourish, whatever their unique tapestry of strengths and interests.”

“Students and staff know that there is a co-ordinated and effective support system in place alongside a commitment to pupil safety with a strong safeguarding culture.”

St Swithuns’s head, Jane Gandee added: “It is a huge credit to everyone involved in the school that we have received this award. The wellbeing of our pupils is our primary concern, and we believe that girls who are happy, healthy, and resilient are much more likely to achieve their goals and aspirations.”

The award was established in 2017 by the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools – part of Leeds Beckett University – and social enterprise Minds Ahead.

St Swithun’s School Winchester Hampshire SO21 1HA

01962 835700 www.stswithuns.com

McCarthy's Farm Shop

Fresh local fruit and vegetables for all your bank holiday needs. Pop in or order online to be delivered to your door.

Tel: 01329 832221 | Winchester Road, Wickham, PO17 5HE

Boutique Me

French Connection Aspen Bloom Dress, Spring is in the air, available online and in the Boutique High Street, Bishop's Waltham, Southampton, SO32 1AA Tel: 01489 891052 | boutiquemebishopswaltham.co.uk

On Your High Street

#shoplocal #supportsmallbusinesses

Enticing and eclectic items now available on your highstreet this summer. Stay local and support your diverse retailers!

Kingsworthy Foundry

The 'Jamie' Outdoor kitchen by BOREK.

Exclusive to Kingsworthy Foundry. £please call Tel: 01962 883776 | www.kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk

Boutique Me

French Connection, a bold choice, brighten up your day with the Arubu Palm Midi Dress. Available online and in the Boutique - High Street, Bishop's Waltham, Southampton, SO32 1AA

Tel: 01489 891052 | boutiquemebishopswaltham.co.uk

Westlands Farm Shop

'Fresh Strawberries grown on the farm available now at Westlands Farm Shop, Pricketts Hill, Shedfield, Southampton

Tel: 01329 833832 | www.westlandsfarmshop.co.uk

Andrew Smith & Son Auctioneers

Saturday Homes & Antiques Auction- Saturday 13th

May 2023 - Viewing Friday 12th May

Tel: 01962 735988 | www.andrewsmithandson.com

Ragamuffin

Playsuit by Spanish Designer Mayoral £36.99 available from 6-10years

2 Bakehouse Yard, Alresford, SO24 9AU

Tel: 01962 734488 | www.ragamuffin-uk.com

Alresford Watercress Festival 2023

www.watercressfestival.org

Events begin with the street cavalcade at 10am with jazz musicians, Morris dancers and local school children accompanying the Watercress King and Queen atop a horse and cart, distributing the first of the season’s watercress harvest to festival goers.

The Hampshire Farmers’ Market in Broad Street, are joined by others to create a massive food market plus the Cookery Demo unit is a great place to learn about how to use our local super food Watercress. In West Street and Station Road you

will find arts, crafts, jewellery and much else besides. There are activities for children of all ages, including circus skills workshops, face painting, kids roundabout, plus Spider Mountain.

Music is also high on the agenda, with jazz, blues, ukuleles and brass on the main stage and in St Johns church. Everyone is sure to enjoy the delights of the street entertainersfrom Morris sides to Brass bands. It’s a full day of free entertainment!

ALRESFORD WATERCRESS FESTIVAL ROAD CLOSURE NOTICE

ROAD CLOSURES

Bridge Road – between its junction with The Avenue & its junction with De Lucy Avenue

Broad Street – entire length

East Street – entire length

Great Weir – entire length

Jacklyns Lane – between its junction with West Street & its junction with Grange Road

Pound Hill – entire length

Station Approach – entire length

Station Road – entire length

The Avenue – between its junction with New Farm Road & its junction with Pound Hill

The Dean – entire length

The Soke – entire length

West Street – entire length

Drove Lane – no entry from The Avenue (B3047)

RESIDENT ACCESS

As in recent years, we shall put in place arrangements that enable residents of properties directly affected to drive their vehicles away from/back to their properties during the period the roads are closed (0600 – 1800hrs)

On Sunday 21st May the streets of Alresford will once again come alive to celebrate all things Watercress at this year’s Alresford Watercress Festival.

Putting on a play with ‘Adult Themes’ carries the risk of reduced audiences due to the possible content. The hundreds who attended the Reading Rooms at Curdridge would definitely not agree!

‘Fortune favours the brave’ and CADG has never been a group to shy away from the controversial, but the excellent production of “Home, I’m Darling” by Laura Wade did not contain any ‘gratuitous’ language or inferences. Indeed, it evoked many questions to the audience of times gone by compared to the present day. Many felt that this ranked amongst the very best productions in the long history of CADG.

Amusing, entertaining and thought provoking, it gave audiences much to think about and their comments and lengthy applause proved that CADG had, once again, hit the nail on the head for a production suited to the more mature and appreciative audience. Such comments even covered the way the scenery changes were actuated and the quality of the scenery itself, and how it even added to the whole effect of the play. No wonder the production has been on tour.

In our reports, we rarely single out anyone for praise, as the whole company deserves our plaudits but we now make an exception for Bex Mehers, whose brilliant characterisation of Judy -so ably assisted by Stuart Hillman as Johny- gave the whole production (under Director Margi Green) a truly professional feel. CADG has always encouraged younger members and their faith proved absolutely spot on once again. With members such as this, what a future we have for you!

We will continue building on this success with an open meeting (yes, EVERYONE is invited) on Thursday 11th May at 7.45pm at the Reading Rooms, Curdridge, SO32 2HF. You may want to join, perhaps just provide your own ideas, even try out some songs and choreography. Either way it will be FUN. Email us at contact@curdridgedrama.co.uk for more information and, for news and details of joining, past productions and much more also see our main website at www.curdridgedrama.co.uk

Meon Valley Lions 50 Year Anniversary

A pride of over 30 Lions, past and present, celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Meon Valley Lions Club with a wonderful meal at New Place Hotel in Shedfield, keen supporters of the Club.

Ken Brady was a founder member, President three times and Deputy District Governor. Another early member was Bob Higginbottom and the only one to reach the dizzy heights of District Governor. The Doney family, who used to run the garage in Newtown, were also very involved. Another early member was Harry Greenslade who ran a Teddy Bear tombola for many years at all local fetes until about 15 years ago.

So those early pioneers, Ken, Bob, Doney family and Harry used to meet at the Boar’s Head Pub attached to the Ponderosa Club in Boarhunt - a meal once a month to sort Club business.

Our first trailer was built by Ken on an old caravan chassis, which morphed into a sleigh for Santa collections. A Minibus was purchased not long after the Club was formed and to this day provides essential support for the elderly and community at large. The Fishing Festival also started in the 1970’s, an event with which we are still involved, Ron Wilson did many shifts over the years down on Southampton water. By the 1990s we had about 15 members, with average age of about 45 all helping to run Lions whilst working full time and raising families. Fundraising - was a BBQ on half an oil drum – all around the Meon Valley, finally upgrading to gas in the mid 90s, plus Santa collection on Ken’s trailer.

Socials - always a key component of the Club, involved Dinners, BBQs, America Suppers, Theatre Trips and a New Years Day walk, no matter the weather.

Welfare - back then was still about helping individuals, running the minibus for lunch clubs, supporting Naomi House, Rose Road, Rowan Hospice, BW Gateway Club, Macmillan, Scouts/Guides/ Youth Clubs, all of which we still do today.

Of course over the years other local people joined from all walks of life, IBMers, Engineers, Finance and HR people, Navy, Dentists, Public Servants etc. There have been many adventures, friendship and people helped along the way, somethings are different, but many remain the same. A Club to this day famous for Santa Collections, Minibus and converting burgers into cash to help people in need. We owe a great debt of gratitude to those early Meon Valley Lions pioneers and of course it should not be forgotten the HUGE contribution by the partners of Lions members over the years, the true unsung Heroes of the Club; and of course the Lions friends, always on hand to help. It is a Club today with a wonderful group of people from all walks of life, whom we count as friends, who freely give their time to make a difference in the community AND of course part of the Lions Worldwide. We’re looking forward to many more successful years ahead!

Minibus appeal - Help us transport local people!

Our 15-year-old minibus has done us proud for many years but sadly its upkeep, running costs and reliability is starting to impact on our ability to help local people. The estimated cost of a suitable second-hand vehicle is circa £36,000. To date we have raised £18,000 but its taking too long and we are concerned it will impact heavily on the assistance we provide. We are seeking support from a number of organisations but if you feel you can donate, no matter how large or small, it will go directly to the fund helping us achieve our goal. https://www.peoplesfundraising.com/.../ meon-valley-lions...

CADG wows the audience and proves that nostalgia isn’t like it used to be!

Photo: Lions at Charter Night

A few local residents started the Meon Valley Lions Club in 1973, with Fareham Lions as our sponsoring Club to help get membership off the ground.

AndrewsAutosource

Carefully Selected Cars

Approved by trading standards

AT BRAMDEAN GARAGE

A272 BRAMDEAN WANTED CARS FOR CASH

AS YOU CAN SEE FROM THE LACK OF AVAILABLE CARS BELOW, NOW WOULD BE A FANTASTIC TIME TO SELL ANY CAR NOT BEING USED AND GET A GREAT PRICE FOR IT.

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

2008 (08) Land Rover Defender 110, County Station wagon, 7 seats, cloth interior, winter pack (heated front seats and windscreen). towing and exterior protection pack (lights, steering/sump guard, wing and bonnet protectors)

2019 (19) Honda Jazz 1.3 EX Nav Automatic, 5 door, Sat Nav, front and rear parking sensors rear camera, climate control, cruise control, 21,000mls

2019 (69) Fiat 500 1.2 Lounge, Cruise control, Parking sensors, 10,000 miles.

2018 (68) Hyundai i10 S, 5 door 21,000 miles, £7995

2014 (64) Nissan Note Acenta Premium, sat nav, air con, 48,300 miles

Viewing by appointment only please.

VIEW OUR CURRENT STOCK AT www.andrews-autosource.co.uk/vehicles-for-sale

PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL CARS HAVE SERVICE HISTORY

BRAMDEAN GARAGE, A272, BRAMDEAN TEL: 07811 041653 OR TEL: 01962 732 995

Rediscovering Chalk Stream Treasures

Formed by a happy accident of weather and geology, our chalk streams show nature at its most magnificent. But look into the water near an old house, footpath, or footbridge and you may also see human additions: fragments of blueand-white Victorian pottery, the edge of a stoneware beer bottle, or a shard of aqua glass from the 19th century.

Jane Eastman, who lives near the Upper Test, is dedicated to rediscovering these lost treasures. For several years now, she has been ‘streamlarking’ – wading in chalk streams and plucking pieces of history from their gravelly beds. The result is an incredible range of finds, each made more fascinating when her research reveals their origins.

There are coffin-shaped poison bottles, sometimes with contents remaining. There are the bowls of broken clay pipes – the cigarette butts of their day. There are imperfectly made ink bottles – testaments

to a time of rapidly increasing literacy. Then there are precious metals: an 18-carat gold wristwatch and a folding fruit knife in sterling silver.

After some careful cleaning, Jane posts her finds on a dedicated Instagram account called @myordinarytreasure, along with their stories. This act of sharing has given thousands of people a window into Hampshire’s history, and highlighted how our chalk streams have shaped – and been shaped by – human lives over the centuries. But for Jane, the search itself has equal value. “It’s a privilege to enjoy the local landscape from this unique perspective; to be immersed in a river that’s thriving and teeming with life,” she says. “Without a doubt, it is this experience of being in the beautiful chalk stream environment which I take home as the ultimate ‘treasure’.”

If you’d like to have a go at streamlarking, remember to get permission from the landowner when on private land. Stick to

shallow water and don’t go out alone; chalk streams can be deeper and faster than they look. Always use the ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ process for your clothes and equipment, to avoid spreading diseases and invasive species.

You can read more about Jane’s work, and her fantastic finds, at www.hiwwt.org.uk/ winterbournes/tales. If you’re a landowner with a stretch of chalk stream, and are interested in Jane streamlarking there, please contact us at winterbournes@hiwwt.org.uk. Our scheme is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Free Online Talk – ‘Water-Wise Gardening: Get Smart With Soil’ 25th May, 7-8.30pm

Hear how to achieve healthy soil, and how doing so can help your garden to cope with dry weather. Learn top tips on avoiding the need for intense watering. Book at: www.hiwwt.org.uk/events

At Town and Country, we take pride in ensuring every client receives the best customer service, from the informative and knowledgeable sales process through to the extensive after sales care.

Our boutique showroom showcases some of the finest kitchen and bathroom furniture available, with a strong emphasis on UK and European manufacturing. Bathroom manufacturers on display include Ambiance Bain, Pelipal, Hansgrohe, Roper Rhodes and Miller of Sweden, with Porcelanosa and Ca’Pietra tiling throughout the showroom. Our kitchens are expertly crafted by Schuller, the second largest German kitchen manufacturer, and Uform. Both have an extensive and inspiring collection ranging from the contemporary to the more traditional.

Please contact us regarding our complementary design and quotation service, we look forward to hearing from you.

Visit Town & Country

8 The High Street, Botley, Southampton, Hampshire, SO3O 2EA

Telephone: 01489 536187

Email: sales@town-and-country.co.uk

www.town-and-country.co.uk

Coronation Weekend 6-8th May 2023

Buckingham Palace is pleased to announce further details on the ceremonial, celebratory and community events that will take place over the Coronation Weekend between Saturday 6th and Monday 8th May 2023.

The Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort will take place at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 6th May, 2023. The Service will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury. As previously announced, the Service will reflect the Monarch’s role today and look towards the future, while being rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry.

Across the Coronation Weekend, there will be further opportunities for people to come together in celebration of the historic occasion. On Sunday, 7th May 2023, a special Coronation Concert will be staged and broadcast live at Windsor Castle by the BBC and BBC Studios, with several thousand pairs of tickets to be made available via public ballot.

The Coronation Big Lunch, at which neighbours and communities are invited to share food and fun together, will take place across the country on the same date. On Monday, 8th May 2023, members of the public will be invited to take part in The Big Help Out, which will encourage people to try volunteering for themselves and join the work being undertaken to support their local areas.

Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort hope the Coronation Weekend will provide an opportunity to spend time and celebrate with friends, families and communities across the United Kingdom, the Realms and the Commonwealth. Their Majesties are looking forward to marking the occasion with the public throughout 2023.

Saturday 6th May 2023

The Coronation Service at Westminster Abbey

The Coronation Service will take place on the morning of Saturday, 6th May 2023 at Westminster Abbey. The Coronation is a solemn religious service, as well as an occasion for celebration and pageantry.

Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort will arrive at Westminster Abbey in procession from Buckingham Palace, known as ‘The King’s Procession’.

After the Service, Their Majesties will return to Buckingham Palace in a larger ceremonial procession, known as ‘The Coronation Procession’. Their Majesties will be joined in this procession by other Members of the Royal Family. At Buckingham Palace, The King and The Queen Consort, accompanied by Members of the Royal Family, will appear on the balcony to conclude the day’s ceremonial events.

Sunday 7th May 2023

The Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle

On Sunday, 7th May 2023, a special Coronation Concert will take place at Windsor Castle. Produced, staged and broadcast live by the BBC and BBC Studios, the Coronation Concert will bring global music icons and contemporary stars together in celebration of the historic occasion. Attended by a public audience including volunteers from The King and The Queen Consort’s many charity affiliations, the concert will see a world-class orchestra play interpretations of musical favourites fronted by some of the world’s biggest entertainers, alongside performers from the world of dance. The performances will be supported by staging and effects located on the Castle’s

East Lawn and will also feature a selection of spoken word sequences delivered by stars of stage and screen.

Through a national ballot held by the BBC, several thousand members of the public will be selected to receive a pair of free tickets for the Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle.

Alongside the stars of the concert, the show will also see an exclusive appearance from The Coronation Choir. This diverse group will be created from the nation’s keenest community choirs and amateur singers from across the United Kingdom, such as Refugee choirs, NHS choirs, LGBTQ+ singing groups and deaf signing choirs. A new documentary exploring the formation of The Coronation Choir will tell the stories of the people representing the many faces and voices of the country. The Coronation Choir will appear alongside The Virtual Choir, made up of singers from across the Commonwealth, for a special performance on the night.

The centrepiece of the Coronation Concert, ‘Lighting up the Nation’, will see the country join together in celebration as iconic locations across the United Kingdom are lit up using projections, lasers, drone displays and illuminations.

The Coronation Concert will be produced by BBC Studios, broadcast live on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds.

The Coronation Big Lunch

Neighbours and communities across the United Kingdom are invited to share food and fun together at Coronation Big Lunches on Sunday 7th May 2023, in a nationwide act of celebration and friendship. From a cup of tea with a neighbour to a street party, a Coronation Big Lunch brings the celebrations to your neighbourhood and is a great way to get to know your community a little better.

The Coronation Big Lunch will be overseen and organised by the Big Lunch team at the Eden Project. The Big Lunch is an idea from the Eden Project, made possible by The National Lottery, that brings millions of people together annually to boost community spirit, reduce loneliness and support charities and good causes. Her Majesty The Queen Consort has been Patron of the Big Lunch since 2013.

Thousands of events are expected to take place in every corner of the United Kingdom this May as people take to their streets, gardens, parks and community spaces to join the Coronation celebrations and mark this historic occasion.

Free downloadable resources will also be made available online by the Big Lunch team at CoronationBigLunch.com, to help people and communities start their Coronation Big Lunch planning.

Monday 8th May 2023

The Big Help Out

Will be held on Monday, 8th May 2023 and is being organised by The Together Coalition and a wide range of partners such as The Scouts, the Royal Voluntary Service and faith groups from across the United Kingdom. The Big Help Out will highlight the positive impact volunteering has on communities across the nation.

In tribute to His Majesty The King's public service, The Big Help Out will encourage people to try volunteering for themselves and join the work being undertaken to support their local areas. The aim of The Big Help Out is to use volunteering to bring communities together and create a lasting volunteering legacy from the Coronation Weekend.

Fabulous Clean Carpets

reasonable prices, and courteous friendly service from people you can trust in

why one of the Stockbridges’ most trusted cleaning companies cleaning local, nearneighbours carpets for a of the normal cost

Stockbridge Forum

Reader, conscious local residents deal.

need your carpets are looking for an award-winning company who on time, will be respectful and above trustworthyyou’re invited to take of one of the three extraordinary value, high carpet and upholstery deals we’re offering customers this monthwe want to give chance to get to know and to find out how impressively new, fresh and carpets will look cleaned and freshened by Care People.

Deal 1:

home

Fabulous Clean Carpets, Upholstery and Curtains

The Carpet Care People

Our approach is simple:

We are proud to run a celebrated professional carpet and upholstery cleaning business, and we insist on providing you with good oldfashioned service and value.

3 Great Deals! Winner

Call now and find out why our award-winning service is probably the most requested carpet cleaning in the local Stockbridge area

The next thing for you to do is call us on 01962 690 005we’ll welcome your call, answer your questions and take care of everything for you.

SILK

Have any three of your carpets cleaned for just £97 total!

Deal 2:

SILK

Have your 3 piece suite freshened up for just £97!

Deal 3:

SILK SELF STORAGE

SILK SELF STORAGE

SILK

Have any 3 carpets and your 3 piece suite freshened up for just £177!

Upholstery we specialise in cleaning and refreshing 3 piece suites (at our current offer price of £97).

Fabric Master, our special upholstery and cleaning system is safe, gentle, and very effective. Fibres are restored to their original beauty and softnessyou’ll see!

Looking for secure storage facilities?

Looking

Tel 01962 690 005

Looking

Silk Self Storage

Frequently Asked Questions

Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates. Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk

Looking for secure storage facilities?

Looking for secure storage facilities?

Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates. Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk

Here’s a selection of frequently asked questions especially for you sceptics (you know who you are).

1. When you say ‘carpet’ what do you mean? We mean average size areas, say 10x12ft ish. But we don’t quibble if the areas are a little larger - it’s all done on fairness really. 2. Do you move furniture?

Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates. Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk

Our pricing policy reflects the time it takes to clean working around furniture, rather than moving it. That said, we are for example, happy to move your three piece suite backwards and forwards cleaning under it and replacing it back into position. What we don’t price into the job at these discount prices is moving large pieces of furniture like bookcases, sideboards or wardrobes. Similarly we are not insured to move electrical items, in particular flat-screen tvs. Again we apply common sense and fairness to the situation and inevitable we do end up moving some furniture around, even at these discount prices. 3. Are there any ‘hidden’ extra costs? The prices quoted above are fully-inclusive and are the actual prices you will pay.

Silk Self Storage have a selection of containers and individual units, 24 hour CCTV, easy access, gated entry and based in a friendly rural location offering very competitive rates. Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk

Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH

E: storage@silkservices.co.uk

T: 01962 771815

Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH

E: storage@silkservices.co.uk

T: 01962 771815

Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH

E: storage@silkservices.co.uk

T: 01962 771815

BANK HOLIDAY SALE 15% OFF

2 Medium Individial Panelled Sectional Doors

Small Panelled Sectional Door with accompanying Solidor front door Solidor Front Door

Roller Door

Bishop's WalthamFestivalFriday Night Ceilidh

23rd June 2023 at 7.00pm - Bishop's Waltham

The band of musicians for our Ceilidh are Jigfoot, who have been playing together for many years (www. jigfoot.com) and the very experienced caller is Tom Gregory. It's been organised by FolkActive (www.folkactive.org). FolkActive aim to encourage and enable individuals and groups of all ages to be active in traditional music and dance.

Tickets for the Ceilidh are available on line at www.bwfestival/art or from Best Wishes in Brook St., Bishop's Waltham. Adults £12; 12-17 year olds £5; under 12s with an adult are free, there will be a bar on site.

Obviously the Festival offers more than just the one event! Festival Jazz brings more music on the afternoon of Saturday 24th June. Music from 12.30 until 4.00pm. Bar on site. Ticket prices: £15 per adult; £5 for under 18 years; free for those under 12 years.

Sunday 25th June has two outdoor theatre productions by professional touring companies. The afternoon play is Bad Dad for children, at 1.30pm. Ices available on site. Ticket prices: Adults £13; Children £8; Family Ticket (max. 4 people, max. 2 adults) £37 www.heartbreakproductions.co.uk

From: On line: www.rainorshine.co.uk , Box Office 03306 600541

More Info. and Tickets For All Events: www.bwfestival.art or in person at Best Wishes, Brook Street, BW

Common Ceilidh Questions!

• What is a ceilidh, and more to the point, how do you pronounce it? Originally the word Ceilidh (kay-lee) descended from the Gaelic word for 'gathering' or 'party'. These days when people think of a Ceilidh, they think of a fun filled night of exuberant dancing, lots of laughter, good music and great company! Some people like to call it a barn dance but Ceilidh suits our event better as it's outdoors so not so much going wild on the dance floor but on the grass!

• Do you need to bring a partner to a Ceilidh? You can turn up on your own, or with a partner or a group of friends. It really doesn't matter. As you join the dances everyone moves along and accommodates everyone else and often in the dances you keep changing who you are dancing with anyway!

On Saturday 24th evening Festival Floor Fillerz will feature Amba Tremain, a night of music and dance www. ambatremainmusic.com Streetfood and bar on site. Gates 7.00pm, Music 7.30pm10.45pm. Ticket prices: £15 for adults; £5 for 12 – 18 years.

In the evening it's Shakespeare's The Comedy Of Errors. Gates open 6.00pm, Performance 7.00pm. Ticket prices: Adults £18; Concessions £16; Under 18 years £6

• How do you know what to do? In addition to the band of musicians there is a 'caller' on the stage. This is the person to watch! The caller runs the evening and explains each dance – its name, the formation of dancers and then goes through the moves. The caller repeats them while you are dancing and everyone follows – what could possibly go wrong?

• What should I wear? Comfortable clothes in layers and shoes you won't trip up in, so maybe leave those strappy stilettos at home.

• Is a Ceilidh good for you? Well, apparently it's a 'fun and sociable way to burn off up to 600* calories and work every muscle in your body in a great atmosphere'. * depends on how much you drink at the bar!

Palace Grounds

12 Million people suffer with hearing loss across the UK, yet many people continue to ignore the symptoms

Established 1878

Friendly, professional advice on all areas of family law in the centre of Bishops Waltham. Our friendly family team will do everything possible to guide you through the process and securing the right outcome for you and your family, no matter the situation.

Friendly, professional advice on all areas of family law in the centre of Bishops Waltham

Our friendly family team will do everything possible to guide you through the process and securing the right outcome for you and your family, no matter the situation.

Contact Serhan Handani at sh@bramsdonandchilds.com

Contact Serhan Handani at sh@bramsdonandchilds.com

Our Bishop's Waltham office has moved to: St.George's Square, Bishop's Waltham, Hampshire, SO32 1GJ Tel: 01489 888240

Southsea Office

141 Elm Grove, Southsea, Hampshire PO5 1HR Tel: 02392 821251

Fair Oak Office

Unit 10, Vicarage Farm Business Park, Winchester Road, Fair Oak, So50 7HD Tel: 02382 514300

www.bramsdonandchilds.com