Petersfield Forum - Issue 4 - January 2023

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

Lucia Foster-Found www. luciafosterfound.com

Get in Touch

Forum Publications Offices Unit 8A, Shelf House, New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QH Tel: 01962 735137 www.forumpublications.co.uk

The Petersfield Forum contains facts, views, opinions, statements, recommendations, advertisements and other content and links to external websites not owned or controlled by the magazine. The Petersfield 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 Petersfield 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

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.

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

Anna and Hugh Cutler, May 22

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.

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

Why Full Management makes sense

Being a landlord has changed over the last few years. Tax changes, tightening regulations, and increased penalties have all been hitting the headlines, and there’s more on the way. While there’s no doubt that being a landlord is completely different today, money can still be made in the private rental sector if a landlord is shrewd and ensures the property is competently managed. Here are a few practical reasons why Full Management makes sense.

Compliancy made simple Legislation is constantly changing and the consequences of not complying to legislative changes can be costly at best and result in criminal charges at worst. Both national governments and local authorities are clamping down on landlords at present, so being compliant is essential.

The Country House Company will stay abreast of any changes that may affect your property and lay out your options in a way that is easy to understand.

Tenants have more confidence in a Fully Managed property Marketing your property as Fully Managed means that the landlord has invested in the property to ensure that it is in good order and let professionally. Tenants feel they can trust the landlord and have the security of a professional well-known letting agent to work with. This can make a huge difference when it comes to finding the right tenant.

Professional advice

A property manager will be able to explain, when specific issues arise, whether it is tenant or landlord responsibility. They can manage expectations on both sides, so removing any awkwardness or grey areas.

Tax deductible

The fees incurred for a Full Management service are tax deductible, so the fee is effectively reduced by 20% to 40% depending on which tax bracket a landlord falls into.

Less stress

Taking on a Full Management service removes the potential stress of late payments, awkward requests, unreasonable demands, dealing with contractors, worry about legislation and much more.

Professionally conducted inspections

Full Management includes biannual management visits and a comprehensive report with photos. This gives peace of mind that the tenant is looking after the property and will highlight any issues that need dealing with.

Buying time

Being a landlord can be an extremely time-consuming business. Making repairs, organising contractors, getting quotes or simply answering emergency calls out of hours all takes time. If a property is Fully Managed, the team at The Country House Company handle all those issues. We also have a Property Management phone which is manned by a member of our team 24hrs a day.

Opting for Full Management buys a landlord more time, reduces stress, ensures a property professionally let and fully compliant, all for a minimal, fixed monthly fee.

E Q D C

Creative Saturday: Build with Bricks!

Our Creative Saturdays are designed to inspire kids to engage with our Museum and Art Gallery. Do you enjoy building with toy bricks? Do you have imaginative ideas? Then Building with Bricks is for you!

Come and join us on Saturday 28 January from 10am to 4pm for some brilliant building and let your imagination run wild! We will be holding a LEGO® building challenge: Build something to get to the bottom of the ocean or something to get to a distant planet, or perhaps something that is faster than the speed of sound or a creature from a mythical dimension. The possibilities are endless. No instructions just imagination. Access to thousands and thousands of LEGO® bricks and pieces to build with.

There will also be the chance to get hands on with Minibrix, a block building trail, and large building blocks (foam bricks).

We are delighted to be working with Brilliant Bricks for this Creative Saturday. Brilliant Bricks provide imaginative, inventive and inclusive clubs, parties and workshops with LEGO® bricks.

Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, St Peter's Road, Petersfield, GU32 3HX Tel: 01730 262601

To discuss our Full Management service further please call Marishelle Butler, Head of Property Management on 01730 771222, email: marishelle@countryhousecompany. co.uk or see www.countryhousecompany.co.uk

Evening Talk: The Night Sky Today

Have you ever looked up on a clear night and wondered about the stars and night sky above you? Gilbert White’s House and Gardens sits within the South Downs National Park and a dark sky protected area. Join us and the Hampshire Astronomical Group in the Field Studies Centre for this fascinating evening talk as we discover more about astronomy and stargazing. Steve Broadbent BSc FRAS, Chairman of the Hampshire Astronomical Group, Member of the BAA and elected Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society will be using Stellarium planetarium software to guide us through a map of the night sky, constellations and planets.

This event is part of the South Downs Dark Skies Festival, 4-17 February 2023. Tickets are £10 per person

Gilbert White's House & Gardens

The Hight Street, Selborne, Hampshire, GU34 3JH www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk

Kate Porter Sales

Marishelle Butler Management

Claudia Hunt Lettings

Haven’t You Heard?

“I miss the old-fashioned January sales. In January.” They were trapped in traffic. Stationary, they looked through the rain-streaked glass at the blurry fairy lights of those still clinging to the festive season.

“They were something to look forward to after Christmas. The silver lining of the big comedown.” She sighed. The windscreen wipers squeaked as they swooped intermittently over the windscreen in desultory fashion.

“You think? Depressing seeing the gifts you bought in December at half price.” Himself turned on the heater as the windows started to steam up.

“I suppose there was that,” she agreed and sighed again. Squeak squeak; the sound of the wipers was starting to irritate.

“I’ll put the radio on,” they said in unison and reached as one for the button.

“It’ll be Steve Wright.” Himself nodded as he looked at his watch.

“Every time you go away, you take a piece of meat with you,” she warbled along with the radio, adding “and haven’t you heard – Steve’s been gone for months.”

“What? Dead?” Himself was looking at her with an expression approaching horror.

“No – not dead,” she reassured. “Just gone.” “Gone? Well, no-one asked me. And it’s not ‘meat’ you’re hearing, Darling - it’s ‘me’. The lyrics...”

“Ah.. I thought it was weird,” she admitted. Himself was still shaking his head as the track changed and she broke into song once more.

“See that girl, watch her scream, kicking the dancing queen.” She danced in her seat, concert stylie.

The car inched forward a few feet and stopped again.

“I’m pretty sure there’s no screaming or kicking in that one either.” Himself murmured as he gazed again out of the window at the lights strung around a conifer in a front garden. It was fully dark now and the wind had picked up – the illuminations were dancing as the tree thrashed about. “And I still miss Wogan.” He added quietly before listening as she joined in the next song with a soulful “young girls with eyes like potatoes…”

“I don’t think you’re hearing Madonna singing about potatoes, darling,” he interrupted. “I mean, what sort? Jersey Royals? And even then those young girls would look... like the stuff of nightmares.” She felt, rather than saw him shudder in the darkness.

The radio DJs changed shifts and they listened in thoughtful silence for a few minutes before another track came on that she thought she knew the words to...

“She seems to have an in-vis-ible top shelf, she reaches in and grabs right

hold of your tart.” She paused in her singing, “actually, that’d be so useful – an invisible top shelf! I could put the Christmas crockery up there,” she mused, thinking of those robin-infested, non-microwaveable, nondishwasher-safe dishes festooned with gold.

Himself started to say “I’m not sure ‘ole Phil is singing about invisible top sh…” then exclaimed, “ooh… on the move at last,” as the traffic jam miraculously dispersed.

A couple of days later on Sunday, Himself wandered into the kitchen. Her head and shoulders emerged from the depths of the freezer. “Could you face turkey soup again? We’ve rather a lot…”

“Umm OK..” He hesitated and added “perhaps we could just have a few chips and maybe a bit of fish with it?” He looked so hopeful that she put the Tupperware tub back amongst identical siblings on its icy shelf. Best get January out of the way and tackle the soup lake again next month.

A spaniel’s nose nudged her leg. “Do you want to go out?” she asked. The dog stayed put. No mad, Scooby-doo-esque running on the spot before careering towards the back door. A second spaniel arrivedpositioned on her other side. They observed her with large and accusing eyes.

“Can’t be dinner time,” she reassured them. “Paul O’Grady’s not on the radio yet.” As if to prove her point, she turned up the volume.

“Ooh, I like this one…” She began to chant loudly “Marge! I just died in your barns tonight – mustard bin something you said..”

Himself had to shout over the combination of the radio and her trilling. “It’s later than you think – haven’t you heard, Paul O’Grady’s been gone for months..”

“No! Not Paul too…” Shocked, she dished up dog food to the partially mollified spaniels.

“I’m afraid so. A sign of the times – or at least, a sign of the radio times..” He shrugged.

Inconveniently though, she found the fryer was surrounded, hemmed in by gadgets; the gifts of Christmas past. It cowered in the corner of the cupboard, unable to escape the clutches of the juicer, the waffleiser, the electric pie press - and this Christmas’s hot favourite, the hot chocolate maker. More candidates for that invisible top shelf, she thought as she emerged, pink-cheeked and triumphant, fryer in arms. Himself, cheerful at the prospect of crispy, brown, fried food, delved into the freezer, happily retrieving fish fillets and home fries. “Hey –listen to this!” he chortled, before breaking into his own enthusiastic warbling, “Money for nothing - and your CHIPS for free...”

© Lucia Foster-Found 2023 www.luciafosterfound.com

New Year, New Start – How a Settlement Agreement provides a clean break

We advise both employers and employees on employment law.

As part of that role, we advise on and draft Settlement Agreements.

Agreement can therefore be an attractive route for both parties compared to potential litigation and/or associated reputational risk.

In order to prevent unscrupulous employers deceiving employees into signing away their employment law rights, most employment law claims cannot be waived without the employee receiving independent legal advice. This is documented via the Settlement Agreement.

A Settlement Agreement must include some basic required terms but can include most matters that the employee or employer wants covered. Usually, confidentiality and non-derogatory statement clauses are included as standard, but the Agreements can cover a whole host of other issues. These can range from dealing with property such as cars, mobile telephones to leases of property, and also restrictive covenants, handovers, or providing financial assistance for outplacement and counselling services.

Wilson Partner at MacDonald Oates Solicitors

As the name suggest, these Agreements “settle” any potential disputes or claims between the parties and provide a clean break to allow both parties to move forward. Settlement Agreements can arise where there is a dispute or when it is simply the termination of employment by reason, for example, of redundancy.

Although ideally employers and employees should work together to resolve differences and grievances within the workplace, sometimes the differences between the parties are irreconcilable. A Settlement

The Countryside Charity Hampshire

New research shows farmers value hedges and would plant more - if the government provides the right incentives

New research conducted by CPRE, the Countryside Charity, in conjunction with Farmers Weekly, has shown that almost 90% of farmers say hedgerows are important to them and their business. The vast majority are also calling for more government support with 70% of farmers saying they’d plant more hedgerows given the right incentives.

Providing a vital nature corridor on farms was seen as the top benefit of hedgerows, followed by shelter for crops and livestock. Eight in ten farmers support a target to increase hedgerows by 40% by 2050, as recommended by the government’s Climate Change Committee as a key climate and nature recovery goal.

The results of the survey were announced at a reception at the Houses of Parliament this week, attended by representatives of CPRE Hampshire, who have been working over the last eighteen months to

Once the parties are in negotiation over a Settlement Agreement, we find that prompt, practical and down-to-earth advice helps to remove a lot of the stress from what can otherwise become a very toxic situation. Our experience shows that once parties have parted ways, there are often fresh opportunities and new horizons for both the individuals involved and businesses.

If you or your business require any assistance with a Settlement Agreement, or other dispute resolution such as mediation, please do contact Linda Wilson on 01730 268211 to see how we can help.

spread the word about the importance of hedges, through their own “Hedgerow Heroes” project. Boyd McCleary, Vice Chair of CPRE Hampshire, who attended the launch, said “The report confirms what we have found in our own work here in Hampshire. Farmers really value hedgerows and would love to do more, both to extend them and maintain existing hedgerows more effectively.”

Richard Stiles, who farms in Titchfield near Fareham, was also at the Westminster event, agreed: “Many of our old hedgerows have either disappeared completely, or are in a poor state of repair. I am delighted to be working with CPRE Hampshire, not only to plant new hedges, but also to learn the traditional craft of hedge-laying. It gives old hedges a new lease of life, creating more attractive boundaries for the farm, better habitat for wildlife and a means of generating and storing carbon, which is beneficial in terms of climate change.”

Flick Drummond, MP for Meon Valley, took the opportunity to sign up as a parliamentary Hedgerow Hero: “I am happy to support the work CPRE are doing to raise awareness of this issue. We have lost too many of our hedges over the last few decades. It is time to reverse that trend. A 40% increase in our hedgerow network by 2050 is an achievable target and I am pleased that the government is aiming to provide support for environmental stewardship under the proposed Environmental Land Management scheme (ELMs).”

As part of its Hedgerow Heroes project, CPRE Hampshire is supporting local communities across Hampshire to plant new hedgerows or rejuvenate old ones. They are also setting up two traineeships to teach young persons the traditional craft of hedge-laying.

Linda

Flick Drummond, Hampshire MP for East Meon, signs up to support the call to increase hedgerow networks across the country.

I have spent quite a bit of time abroad during December and have not been very happy about the internet wi-fi connections provided by hotels, airports, airport lounges and even on airplanes. I am very aware of the technical hurdles involved in providing free wi-fi to a lot of people at the same time. What I do find annoying is that you are very rarely informed as to how slow your connection might be.

In general, most people want to keep up to date with emails and do some light browsing and this requires a very small amount of bandwidth. Clearly watching or downloading a movie on Netflix is not to be expected although I have heard people asking why not? I have a very good contract with Vodafone that allows me to use my UK data allowance while I am abroad so I am not totally reliant on hotel wi-fi.

This is not an expensive option; I pay just over £30 a month for the facility and I think it is excellent value. I recommend you download the Ookla app from https://www.speedtest.net as you will be able to see exactly what internet speed you are getting on your devices.

That’s all for this month. Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions or for any advice. Best wishes for 2023. AndyMr Mac, 07392 552592

Mr Mac

January

on selected

JESSIE KEANE CELEBRATES 15 YEARS AS A TOP 10 BESTSELLING NOVELIST!

Local author Jessie Keane, dubbed the Queen of the Underworld, is back with another thrilling tale about her favourite heroine Annie Carter. ‘The fans have been screaming for this,’ says Jessie.

NEVER GO BACK is the seventh novel in the Annie Carter series, following on from Number One Heatseeker Dirty Game, then Black Widow, Scarlet Women, Playing Dead, Ruthless and Stay Dead.

‘I’ve written a number of stand-alones too, and the Ruby Darke series of 3 books,’ says Jessie, ‘I’m working on my 18th right now! But it’s the question I get asked time and again: when is Annie Carter coming back?

Well – here she is!’

NEVER GO BACK hits the shelves in major retailers and bookshops on 2nd February 2023. It charts Annie’s sensational rise from East End London madam to gangster’s moll to Mafia queen to woman of substance. Jessie loved returning to her, and there may even be more Annie Carter books. ‘There’s a huge demand for more Annie,’ says Jessie. ‘I see it every day on Twitter and Facebook.’

Jessie is Romany and has – just like her heroines – known both bad times and good. ‘I’ve always written,’ she says. ‘And I was flat broke when I was inspired in 2008 to write Annie Carter in Dirty Game. I wrote it using a borrowed monitor in 3 months and within a fortnight I had a 3 book offer for a 6 figure sum from a major publisher. 15 years on, I’m still writing, still loving it.’

Pre-order your copy of NEVER GO BACK now at: https://amzn. to/3QEYiBF or on Jessie’s website www.jessie-keane.co.uk

South Downs Care

QUALITY CARE & FULFILLING LIFESTYLES

South Downs Care is owned and run by the Rogers family who pride themselves on the personal and individually tailored care that their residents receive in graciously appointed and attractive surroundings.

It is our belief that high quality care starts with finding out what is important to our residents and making sure we get the little things right. We are genuinely passionate about delivering personalised care to every resident. Our holistic approach to care means that we not only deliver excellent care, but also residents are encouraged to be as active as they are able both physically and mentally, through events and activities and individual support.

South Downs Care have been providing care to the people of the Petersfield and the surrounding villages since 1992. When the time comes that people feel their care needs can no longer be catered for at home, or they would like some companionship, or more stimulation than can be provided at home, we can offer a warm welcome with beautifully appointed homes and friendly, professional staff to ensure you or your loved one are well cared for.

South Downs Care is comprised of two homes, Downs House and Stroud House, both nestled in the stunning Hampshire countryside near Petersfield. We believe in providing a high level of personalised care in safe, friendly environments in which older people can live fulfilling lifestyles.

South Downs Care are proud of their reputation for care of the elderly. Our homes have been developed to offer their own individual style and specialism, but share the same ethos of care. There are a wide range of services which are available to all residents, making life in both our homes varied, active and enjoyable. The services provided ensure that all essential needs are catered for and that residents' experience the best possible quality of life.

Services include:

• Doctors on call, from our local Surgery

• District community nurses available

• Community mental health team support

• Medications ordered, collected and dispensed

• Regular outings and shopping trips

• Personal laundry services

• Hairdresser

• Chiropodist

• Exercise classes

• Personalised activities that inspire

• Visiting optician & dentist

• Daily newspaper delivery

• Visiting library including large print and ‘Talking Books’

• Local Clergy will visit and there is a monthly communion service

Why not visit to see for yourself? Contact us to arrange an appointment, or simply pop in.

Petersfield Climate Action Network

Winton House is located at 18 High Street, Petersfield. The Winton House Centre is a registered charity. Organisers might reject unsuitable items.

A Fruit Tree in Every Garden

significance of gardens as a resource for wildlife is clear.

Fruit trees offer blossom in spring, a fantastic resource for wildlife and pollinators all year round, carbon dioxide sequestration, and even fruit to eat. What’s more, a fruit tree makes a wonderful gift! Trees, shrubs and hedges also provide nesting places and materials, food sources and cover for a great variety of creatures.

Petersfield Christmas Present Exchange

Petersfield Climate Action Network and Winton House Centre are running the popular Christmas Present Exchange again this year. Unwanted gifts are a reality in life - but one man or woman's trash is another's treasure... Don't let those unwanted goodies go to waste!

Drop unwanted gifts (not charity shop goods) at Winton House any weekday from Tuesday 3rd January to Friday 13th January 9.30am - 3.30pm, collect your token, and then on Saturday 14th January between 9.30am - midday, return to Winton House to select an exchange gift. Alternatively, you can donate your token so that someone else in the community can choose a present. Anything left over will be used to benefit HomeStart Butser or Age Concern.

The aim is to reduce waste and provide a route for nice but unneeded gifts to find a new home where they will be more appreciated. This is a project for the community by the community.

Every time you reuse, regift, repair or recycle something, you are helping to reduce the volume of CO2 consumed every year in Petersfield from the production and transportation of goods.

Over the last two winters PeCAN has distributed 380 fruit trees for gardens around Petersfield. This season, so far, and working in partnership with ACAN, LipCAN, and residents in Rowlands Castle, we have sold 415 trees for gardens across East Hampshire! These trees would usually cost over £30 plus delivery but subsidised through a grant from EHDC, PeCAN is offering them for ONLY £15, with a stake and instructions on how to plant.

Due to the success of the project this year we plan to extend it, reopening orders again in the new year. Please keep an eye on our social media accounts and our website, or sign up to our newsletter, for further details.

Types of trees available include apple, pear, plum, cherry and ornamental cherry and they are sourced from local nursery Blackmoor Fruit Farm. The trees are two years old and approximately 1.5 metres tall, growing to 2-2.5 metres when mature. You will be offered information and directed to a website to help you plant and care for your tree.

In England alone, the total area of gardens is 459% larger than the total area of the National Nature Reserves, so the potential

Amelia Gabriel, programme manager, said: “Trees are a beneficial addition to most gardens, but in residential areas they are very important, helping with climate regulation and air filtration and providing valuable habitats for wildlife.

“With almost half of Britain’s ancient woodland having been destroyed in the last 50 years, the need for these habitats is greater than ever, and you can help by planting a tree in your garden.”

For more information about PeCAN and to sign up to our newsletter, please visit our website at w: www.petersfieldcan.org, email e: hello@petersfieldcan.org

Facebook (@PetersfieldClimateActionNetwork and Instagram (@petersfield_can), or call 01730 719792. We look forward to hearing from you.

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

Petersfield Walking Festival

With everyone now feeling the pinch financially, walking is a costeffective way to take some exercise, explore the countryside and improve your wellbeing all at the same time. Perhaps you are put off joining a formal walking group, but equally don’t have the confidence to try new walks on your own. A programme of walking festival walks across the year, that allows you to dip in and out of as you please, might therefore be just what you need. Why not visit www. petersfieldwalkingfestival.co.uk throughout 2023 to find out what exciting walks are planned for the coming months. Whatever your fitness level, interests or availability there is bound to be something that helps bring out your inner explorer.

After the success of Petersfield’s first walking festival last year, the good news is that it will be back in 2023. Entitled ‘A Walk For All Seasons’, this year’s festival will be trying out a new format. Instead of one intensive week of 47 walks at the end of August, the 2023 programme will be spread across the whole year. In doing this, organisers hope walks will be able to mirror nature’s natural, seasonal beauty and people will have more choice of times and dates to join in the fun.

The festival’s key priorities are promoting our beautiful area as an easily accessible, leisure destination as well as encouraging people to spend time outdoors. However, supporting local enterprise is an equally important element. Several walks on the programme last year were collaborations between experienced walk leaders and local businesses. Those organised with Sky Park Deer Farm, Petersfield Shakespeare Festival, Wild Season’s Foraging and Instagram’s Ambling Path proved particularly popular. This year’s festival will fortunately see a number of similar link ups.

With the festival starting on 1 January, co-organiser Malinka van der Gaauw admits finding inspiration from nature in the depth of winter “a bit of a challenge” but said that is part of the fun. Malinka added that “last August we were keeping our fingers crossed for the week to be dry, but it is perhaps a tall order to have the same expectation across the whole of next year.” In the UK a ‘walk for all seasons’ could very easily also mean a walk in all weathers….. and even perhaps all in just one day. Nonetheless, as every walker knows, there is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing….so it’s time to dig out the waterproofs and carry-on walking!

An Evening With

Rebecca Stephens MBE

Friday 3 Feb from 7pm at Churchers College, Petersfield (& online)

The 2023 Petersfield Walking Festival is in part being made possible by the generosity of an inspirational, local adventurer. Rebecca Stephens MBE was the first British woman to climb both Everest and the Seven Summits (the tallest peaks on each of the 7 continents).

She will be talking about the joy she finds in the mountains - walking through the valleys as much as reaching the highest peaks - and the valuable lesson learned from the beauty of the landscape, and how she still uses this knowledge to shape her approach to life.

Tickets can be bought from www.petersfieldwalkingfestival.co.uk

Considering installing a woodburning stove in your home?

Although there is a lot of misinformation around the future of woodburning for domestic heating, there are no plans to ban woodburning stoves.

Although there is a lot of misinformation around the future of woodburning for domestic heating, there are no plans to ban woodburning stoves.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

Tel: (01962) 883776 Email: info@kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk www.kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk

Tel: (01962) 883776

Email: info@kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk

We stock a wide range of Eco Design/Clear Skies compliant woodburning and multi fuel stoves with some models available for immediate despatch!

New Year Venison Stew with Juniper & Prunes

SERVES 4-6

Preparation time 30 minutes

Cooking time 2 - 2 1/4 hours, plus 30 mins resting time Oven temperature 160 degrees centigrade

Hampshire is blessed with its ready supply of wild venison and the winter months are the season to enjoy some of nature’s local larder. The combination of the sweetness of the prunes and the aromatic herbs and juniper makes it a perfect supper dish ideal for the cold January nights. It is best served with a large bowl of mashed potatoes and some steamed winter greens.

Ingredients

750 g shoulder of wild venison cut into 5 cms cubes

350g salt pork cut into 5cms cubes

2 red onions roughly chopped

2 peeled cubed carrots

4 garlic cloves crushed

3 tablespoons plain flour

1 tablespoon tomato puree

300ml red wine

550ml beef stock

10 crushed juniper berries

2 sprigs fresh rosemary

3 bay leaves

2 tablespoons honey 12 pitted ready to eat prunes

To

garnish Chopped fresh flat parsley Method

Season the venison with salt and pepper and in small batches brown all over in a little vegetable oil and butter. Brown the salt pork. Add a little more oil to the pan and fry together the onions, garlic, and carrots for 5 minutes until a golden caramel colour. Put all of the above in a flame proof casserole dish and add the flour mixing in well. Stir in the red wine and beef stock and bring to the boil. Add the rosemary, juniper, bay leaves, honey and prunes and adjust the seasoning to taste. Cover with a tight fitting lid and cook in the prepared oven for 75 minutes. Remove from the oven and check that the meat is tender. If necessary continue to cook for an additional fifteen minutes. Remove the casserole and with the lid on, allow the venison to rest for 30 minutes. Before serving stir in the chopped parsley.

Two Janes Catering

You can see us on D E twojanescatering

Cycle for Cleo

Are You Sitting Comfortably?

During the month of January 1 – 31, get cycling and support raising funds for Cleo. Cleo (Cleopatra) is one of our wonderful assistance dogs in training here at Hounds for Heroes. She’s a beautiful chocolate Labrador named after the warship HMS Cleopatra, and is in need of your help to raise some money to continue to fund her assistance dog journey and training!

Cycle for Cleo is a FREE virtual event, where supporters can choose to cycle physically or static, 50km, 100km, 200km or even a distance of their choice as long as its during January. All participants will receive a free Hounds for Heroes T-shirt and digital certificate.

This event is being kindly supported by Hoops, Petersfield who have collected a goodie bag for the supporter who raises the most sponsorship, as well as items from one of their suppliers @extra_uk including a carbon saddle with an RRP of £150, also a multi tool and saddle bag coming to a total RRP of over £200 for these 3 items alone.

Evening Orchard Wassail at Chawton House

Pat Staples Interiors wouldn’t be your first thought when looking for a new sofa, as they are primarily interior designers working on room schemes, but if you are looking for top quality upholstery AND value for money then do give them a call. Pat Staples Interiors operate on an appointment basis, out of a studio just outside the town centre in Bishops Waltham and have, on display, two fantastic sofa ranges, the Somerset and the Newbury for their clients to try.

Both sofas are made to order, come in a broad range of sizes and a huge range of fabrics. Handcrafted in the UK using a blend of traditional techniques, cutting edge technology and high quality materials. However the real bonus of shopping a with small experienced business like Pat Staples Interiors is their designers are there to help you with your fabric choice, be it the luxurious look you desire or a family friendly fabric with stain resistance. Pat Staples Interiors can also help you with your curtains, blinds, re-upholstery, carpets, wallpapers and even your paint choice.

Corinne, the manager and one of their two designers tells us “Last October in the lead up to the pre-Christmas cutoff date we offered these ranges to order at a discount. We were amazed by how popular these 2 sofas were, clients came to us after having tried many big retailers, sitting in so many sofas but finding nothing that suited themselves or their home.

Join us for this centuries’ old Twelfth Night apple-growing celebration, involving hearty singing in the orchard to encourage a bountiful harvest in 2023.

Enjoy a warming serving of soup in the Courtyard before processing through the grounds to the orchard in the Walled Garden, where will ward off the bad spirits. Don’t forget to bring along an instrument or anything that will help make a noise to add to the festivities!

We will also be joined by special guests, the Kings Pond Shantymen, for some lively traditional songs.

Ticket cost includes soup and a mulled cider. For more information visit: chawtonhouse.org

The sighs of relief when they sunk into the Somerset, the smiles and relaxation trying our Newbury for size.So we are doing it again! Yes we only have the two ranges but these sofas offer true comfort, value for money, and look beautiful too”

ORDER NOW FOR 20% off your sofa, corner unit, chair of stool from the Newbury or Somerset ranges. Offer Ends 17th February

Pat Staples Interiors, The Studio Claylands Rd, Bishops Waltham,SO32 1BH 01489 892626 patstaplesinteriors.co.uk sales@patstaplesinteriors.co.uk

Silk

SILK SELF STORAGE

SILK SELF STORAGE

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Looking for secure storage facilities?

Looking for secure storage facilities?

Silk

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.

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

Contact us on 01962 771815 or email: storage@silkservices.co.uk

storage@silkservices.co.uk

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lower temperature than the interior space. A build-up of condensation results in unsightly water droplets forming on your glass, which can lead to damp and black mould in your home. This not only looks unpleasant but can cause serious health problems.

Older Properties

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At Exclusive Double Glazing Ltd, we offer prompt and professional door installation services for domestic as well as commercial properties in Hampshire and the surrounding areas. All our doors are made to measure, manufactured in the UK and come with a full DGCOS guarantee.

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If your soffits and fascias are made of wood, exposure to the elements can cause

Save Money

With gas and electric at an all time high having poorly fitted windows and doors can costs hundreds if not thousands in unnecessary heating bills. Expertly fitted uPVC windows can save up to 25% on heat loss in most homes! With the onset of the cold weather do you find yourself relying on your central heating more and more?

If you want to save money on your energy bills, then investing in double/triple glazed windows to replace your single glazing would be the most sensible solution.

The airtight seal of double glazed windows provides many advantages. Heat will be unable to flow in and out, meaning it’s unable to escape once you’ve made your home warm and cosy. This means you won’t need to lean so heavily on your central heating, and you will find yourself reaching for the thermostat less often.

Stop Condensation

Condensation is also a common issue with windows in homes right across the country. This is caused as water vapour in the air building up on surfaces that are at

Another advantage of replacing broken or inefficient windows and doors in your home, is the increase in value should you come to sell your property. Quality uPVC thermal rated windows will not only increase the insulation properties of your home but will improve your Energy Performance Certificate making your home more attractive to prospective buyers.

rot and leave your roof beams exposed. We offer modern uPVC alternatives that can withstand all types of weather conditions, that are low maintenance and do not rot. You can choose from a range of designs, colours and styles to suit your home.

Are you looking to have new windows and doors fitted in your home or business?

uPVC windows are also maintenance free and come in a range of colours to suit any taste or property style.

Replacement Doors

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Winter planning newsletter: Pillars of planning remain firm in a year of change

Looking back on a busy and productive 2022 for the Planning Authority, I’m reflecting on some broad themes that are consistent in planning year after year. It’s certainly been a year of promised change, as well as challenges and uncertainty in the UK and abroad, with a long list announcements that have an impact on planning in one way or another (the fracking U-turn springs to mind). Yet the core of planning remains the same.

We operate on three broad fronts and we must never lose sight of these pillars: managing and enabling growth; conserving and enhancing the best of what we have; and social equity in the environment. These themes apply to both urban and rural areas, albeit with different considerations.

With this in mind, I often come back to the stark reality that whilst we live in a highly urbanised country, over 90 per cent of the UK landmass is countryside. What we do in the rural sphere is massively important especially if we can increase access to the countryside. The work of Planning Authorities with large swathes of countryside – and furthermore as custodians of nationally-important landscapes – is therefore very meaningful at local, regional and national scale.

As I write, a report from the House of Lords Land Use in England Commission has been published. I gave evidence to this work and the report lays out their priorities for a land use framework, which would broadly divide up the land in England and decide where is best for different types of agriculture, as well as carbon sequestration, nature restoration and recreation. This directly relates to the three pillars outlined above. Just as importantly, the report advises access to green space should be prioritised when deciding how to use land, whether through the Planning system or otherwise. Greater access is necessary, with the all-party parliamentary group advising that this is ‘’important for health and wellbeing, especially in urban and peri-urban locations near where people live”. This is so relevant to the South Downs National Park and the many millions who live in or close by it.

The report is also critical of the current UK farming system. Jake Fiennes, the director of Holkham nature reserve in Norfolk, told the commission that “current agricultural and farming practices are generally unsustainable for the medium to long term. Our reliance on synthetic inputs and the effects they have on the wider environment are all too clear”.

As with Planning, the report criticises the government for uncertainty around the post-Brexit farming payments, which are supposed to

deliver nature recovery. Details around these have been delayed, with reports that the initially ambitious schemes are set to be weakened. Seems to echo the much-heralded Planning reforms!

All of the emerging and promised changes through a myriad of Acts, Bills and a promised consultation on the National Planning Policy Framework before Christmas mean we have to be adaptable. With Local Nature Recovery Strategies starting in earnest next April and mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain next November, we as planners will have to grapple with and, ultimately, deliver on this mix of land use and land management.

Our emphasis at the National Park Authority will rightly, continue to be proper placemaking and nature recovery. A healthy rural economy, with opportunities for all and embracing well-measured growth, ultimately feeds a healthy rural environment and visa versa.

As I write this, it’s been announced by the Government that housing targets will be advisory and Local Planning Authorities will be allowed to be build fewer homes if they can show that hitting the target would significantly change the character of an area.

National Parks, of course, do not have “housing targets”. But nevertheless I believe this general policy shift is a positive step in the right direction, championing the benefits of localism. Working with communities through engagement in many areas can deliver better results. This is evidenced by the National Park’s successful approach to neighbourhood planning. It’s a real achievement that 40 Neighbourhood Development Plans are now incorporated into the South Downs Local Plan.

Talking of achievements, there are a couple I would like to touch on briefly: The National Park Authority winning a Chair’s Award from the Royal Town Planning Institute for our record in helping to deliver greener planning was a highlight of 2022 for me. To receive this endorsement means a lot, particularly because it relates to our overall strategy, development plan and implementation on the ground, rather than any specific policy document or development.

We’ve collaborated successfully with other National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) in the planning sphere and as referred to above gave evidence to the House of Lords Select Committee on land use. Long may this kind of joined-up thinking continue! Many thanks and I hope all have a well-deserved Christmas break.

Tim Slaney, Director of Planning, South Downs National Park Authority

All gazebos from Equestrian Fencing Services are made materials. They are designed to provide a shower proof environment. It is important to appreciate that in severe weather conditions there may be a chance of water