Petersfield Forum - Issue 5 - February 2023

CONTENTS

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 New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QE 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

Take (It) Away

“What do you fancy on Tuesday? We could get fish and chips,” she suggested.

Valentine’s night, arriving after (largely) virtuous weeks of salads and vegetables since the overindulgence of Christmas, heralded a treat of forbidden carbs and fried foods. In a landscape of galloping inflation, they had opted to dine in.

Himself considered... “What about an Indian takeaway? We won’t even have to leave the house for that - since Covid they deliver out here.”

Himself went on. “A global pandemic causing devastation in the lives of families everywhere. Lockdowns that affected the mental health of many and altered the working practices of companies and institutions. A disease that cost the UK hundreds of billions of pounds and… delivered tikka masala to our doorstep.”

“It’s an ill wind – as my mother would have said,” she commented wryly as she looked at an on-line takeaway menu.

“Looks like their prices have gone up,” she observed. “Well, how about chicken in a bucket, then. Bargain.”

“Ditto – inflation has hit the humble drumstick and spud I’m afraid. And do you know, it’s nothing that I can’t cook, at a fraction of the price too.” She announced with confidence. “Pretty sure I can find the secret recipe containing eleven herbs and spices somewhere on the net.”

“But Darling, the point of a take-away is that you don’t have to cook. We haven’t had Chinese food for a while. Perhaps we could splash out on one of those. Sweet and sour crispy chicken balls and some ribs shouldn’t be too expensive. And they deliver. If you like, you could cook the rice – that would save some money.”

“Rice?” she announced, incredulously. “I can do better than that! I can cook a whole Chinese meal – no problemo..”

“Are you sure? What about specialist ingredients?” He looked dubious.

“Remember the great liquid glucose hunt of 1990?” Himself gave her an appraising look. “We scoured the South of England for the vital ingredient of Delia Smith’s chocolate truffle torte – to no avail. As I recall, you made a chocolate mousse instead for the dinner party. Was delicious.”

“As I recall, you found me in the kitchen fuming over soft peak egg whites and banging on about showstoppers.” She blushed at the memory.

“Yes, well you were a bit intense and focused about your cooking in those days, Darling.” Himself said kindly.

“And apparently nothing has changed,” she murmured, “because I’m going

to produce the best Chinese meal. Ever.” The bit between her teeth, she again consulted the interweb.

“What we have now,” she said as she jabbed and swiped her phone, “that we didn’t in 1990, is one’s heart’s desire courtesy of a search engine.”

Over the next few days deliveries appeared.

“Another for you darling,” Himself dropped a package into her lap. A corner cupboard and the fridge were filling up with exotic bits and pieces and when the day arrived, she used them all. Grinding, whisking, stirring, chopping. Sesame oil and fish sauce. Ginger, star anise and Sichuan peppercorns. Spring onions, straw mushrooms and rice wine vinegar. Ribs, prawns and chicken – mange tout and water chestnuts. Bamboo shoots and beansprouts. Every inch of the work surfaces was covered and every utensil utilised.

“Been burgled by the cast and crew of masterchef?” Himself exclaimed as she raised her hot, flushed face from feverishly frying spring rolls.

“I know,” she said tiredly. “I had no idea how much work was involved producing a set meal for two. But it’s nearly ready. Just the prawn crackers left to do..”

Presently they sat down at a table groaning with all of their favourites and Himself tucked in. “It’s nice. Not quite the same, but.. nice...” Lukewarm praise, she thought, but secretly agreed. “Was it much cheaper than a takeaway?” He asked, hesitantly. She looked furtive and sipped her drink. “Um I think it will be. You know. In the long run.” Her eyes darted guiltily about the room. “When I’ve made a few more meals and used up all the spices and sauces. There seems to be a lot of pak choi and baby sweetcorn left in the fridge. And duck – I had to buy a whole one for the crispy duck pancakes. Plus a new wok of course..” She trailed off and slumped in her chair, picking unenthusiastically at her egg fried rice.

“Darling,” Himself asked “aren’t you very hungry?”

“I’ve been cooking all day and I’m sick of the sight and smell of it!” she announced wearily.

Himself laughed. “No problemo. Let me just… take it away!” He rose and removed her plate, scraping the food onto his own. Wielding chopsticks with one hand he scrolled his phone with the thumb on his other. “There. I’ve ordered you fish and chips. Apparently since Covid they deliver that out here too...”

Before Makeover After Makeover

Make your OLD kitchen a NEW kitchen for a fraction of the cost of buying a new kitchen

Happy Kitchens completely renovated our kitchen, transformed two wardrobes and built us a lovely cupboard in our storage room. Ben was really enthusiastic during our initial consultations and extremely helpful with assisting us with our choices. He was also very accommodating when we changed our minds on a couple of elements during the process.

Dan, our main fitter, could not have been more professional, flexible or helpful when we had a couple of small niggles, all of which were resolved with a smile – an absolute star! The other fitters who worked with Dan were all very courteous and hard-working. The key thing we recognised is their desire to make the customer happy – Job well done!

Thank you Ben, Dan and James. Mr Wyatt, Winchester

Happy Kitchens are quite unique as we are able to offer top quality products, available in any size, fitted by the best professionals in the business. Change your kitchen and bedroom with a makeover or design and install a new kitchen and bedroom, whichever suits your needs or price range.

Why Winter Lawn Treatments are Essential

Winter lawncare is often overlooked, but it is crucial in ensuring the health and longevity of your lawn. Winter lawn treatments not only protect your grass from the harsh cold weather but also prepare it for a lush and healthy growth in the spring. In this article, we look at the importance of winter lawn care, the steps you can take to protect your lawn during winter weather and the best practices for maintaining a healthy lawn throughout the winter months.

Winter lawncare is essential to maintain the health and beauty of your lawn throughout the year. The harsh cold weather and frost can be detrimental to your grass if proper measures are not taken to protect it. Neglecting your lawn in the winter can lead to damage of the grass plant, discoloration of the leaf, and in extreme situations even death of the grass, leaving bare areas for moss or weeds to establish.

Winter weather can cause a variety of damage to lawns if they are not properly protected. Cold temperatures and frost can cause grass blades to freeze and become brittle. Walking on the lawn whilst frozen can leading to bruising of the leaf and discoloration. Worst still, bruised leaves are more susceptible to diseases such as snow mould. Snow mould, a fungal disease, can also develop when snow or heavy frost lies on the lawn for extended periods of time. This blocks air circulation and provides ideal conditions for this fungal disease to attack the grass plants.

Prepare your lawn for winter

Proper autumn maintenance will help protect your lawn from damage. One of the first things to do is to remove any fallen leaves and moss from your lawn. These can trap moisture, block out light, and lead to the development of fungal diseases that kill the grass. Fertilising in the autumn will help to strengthen the grass and make it more resilient to cold temperatures and the rigours of darker, wetter days. Aerating the soil will also help to relieve compaction, reduce waterlogging, and ensure that water and oxygen can reach the roots of the grass.

Proper winter lawn maintenance not only protects the lawn from damage caused by winter weather, but it also promotes healthy growth in the spring. A well-cared-for lawn in the winter will be better equipped to bounce back in the spring and recover more quickly from any damage that may have occurred due to poor weather. By taking the necessary steps to protect your lawn in the winter, you can ensure that it will be lush, green, and healthy when the weather improves and you want to get outside and enjoy your

garden. Lush, thick grass also has less issues with moss and weeds as there are fewer bare areas for these troublesome plants to establish themselves. Aerating your lawn can also help to protect it from winter damage. Aeration involves making small holes in the soil and cracks beneath the surface, which allows water, oxygen, and fertiliser to reach the roots of the grass. This can help to prevent compaction and ensure that your lawn stays healthy during the winter. It also aids root development which promotes heathier grass plants that are more drought tolerant.

It's important to address any existing problems with your lawn before winter and again once winter has passed. If you have any bare spots or areas of thin grass, you should reseed those areas. This will help to protect your lawn from further damage and ensure that it is healthy and strong when spring arrives.

The Importance of Moss Control

Moss is a common problem in lawns, especially during the winter months. Moss not only makes your lawn look unsightly, but it can also choke out the grass, making it difficult for it to grow. Moss thrives in damp, shady areas of the lawn, and if left untreated, it can quickly take over.

One of the most effective ways to control moss in your lawn is by using moss control treatments. Iron is a natural moss killer, and when applied to the lawn, it will help to dehydrate the moss and prevent it from becoming dominant. Iron also helps to harden the grass, making it more resistant to disease attack. The iron treatment will penetrate the moss and cause the moss to turn brown. This moss should then be removed with a spring rake or scarifier. Moss treatments can be difficult to apply. It’s easy for the amateur gardener to get this wrong and kill areas of the lawn. It can also stain hard surfaces so extreme care should be taken. At this time of year we are also applying our lawn tonic to boost general grass plant health and help it through the challenges winter throws at it.

It’s often cheaper and easier to use a professional lawncare company than to buy and apply treatments yourself and risk getting things wrong. Read our reviews online and contact us to benefit from our exceptional customer service and great result.

Ian Kenyon sits on the committee of the UK Lawn Care Association and owns Shrekfeet Professional Lawncare. He is always happy to offer friendly, professional advice and help: T: 01962 460146 www.shrekfeet.com

Avoid walking on frozen lawns

Snow mould will kill grass

Moss before and after treatment

Contentious Probate & Inheritance Claims

Arguments between relatives and family members over a person’s will or their estate can be painful and deeply divisive. Areas in which our contentious trust and probate team have particular experience and expertise include arguments over a person’s entitlement to be a beneficiary under a will, where there are questions over the deceased’s testamentary capacity or where undue influence may have been exercised over them, as well as where there are questions as to the construction, interpretation or validity of a will (including advising in respect of ‘Mutual Wills’ claims).

We also act in claims over the administration of an estate, including where necessary making applications to the Court to pass over or remove Executors and deal with disputes relating to a Power of Attorney, including applications to the Court of Protection to have a Deputy removed or appointed.

We are regularly instructed (both in bringing and defending claims) to act in cases involving the family or dependants of someone who has died where either no or inadequate provision was made for them,

2023 Petersfield Festival reaches out to broad community

This year’s Petersfield Musical Festival aims to reach out to all ages and tastes with its programme of diverse events including two large-scale choral concerts, small-scale chamber ensembles, music theatre, youth and family concerts. The programme will be rolled out in Petersfield’s Festival Hall and St. Peter’s Church 17th – 25th March.

Book-ending the week will be the Festival’s two flagship choral concerts. Handel’s glorious 1752 oratorio Jephtha, on the first Saturday, dramatically depicts the Biblical narrative of Jephtha, who, recalled from exile to lead the Israelites against their enemies, vows to sacrifice the first person he sees if he is successful in battle; tragically this turns out to be his own daughter. The poignancy of the moral dilemma which ensues calls forth some of Handel’s most moving and heart-felt writing for both soloists and ensemble.

A cast of young soloists drawn from London conservatoires, conducted by Paul Spicer and accompanied by Southern Pro Musica and the Festival chorus will portray a powerful gamut of emotions from despair to joy.

The following Saturday sees a contrasting programme of works featuring British composer Charles Villiers Stanford, Giacomo Puccini and Edvard Grieg. Stanford’s Songs of the Fleet was written in 1910 and its fast movements reflect the typical Edwardian brio of their era. The style of Puccini’s Messa di Gloria - sweeping melodies and dramatic orchestral accompaniment - foreshadows the composer’s later work as an opera composer. Paul Spicer will take the helm of the Basingstoke Symphony Orchestra and Festival Chorus. The much-loved picturesque ‘Peer Gynt’

which can result in a claim being issued for a share of the deceased’s Estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.

Our contentious trust and probate team also advises in situations where there has been negligent drafting of a will.

We seek to approach cases sensitively and with care and to help our clients explore all alternative options for settlement, as well as to provide support should court proceedings become necessary. Please do contact us on 01730 268211 to speak to our litigation team if you would like our help. www.macdonaldoates.co.uk/

completes the programme under the baton of Stephen Scotchmer.

Amongst the soloists in Songs of the Fleet and Messa di Gloria, Ed Ballard, an internationally renowned baritone, will make his second appearance at the Festival. Elsewhere, the ever-popular Liss band, prevented from performing last year by illness, kick off the Festival on 17th March with a brass concert while the Petersfield Community Choir gives voice to popular classics. Young people get their share of the limelight in the sell-out Youth concerts mid-week, which will bring together talented performers drawn from local schools aged 8-18. The Family concert on 19th March Dancing through Time should be hugely enjoyable as it explores dance forms from Pavanes to Tangos presented by the string players of SouthDowns Camerata (including audience participation). A choreographed evening of musical theatre and popular classics with artists from Guildford School of Acting features later in the week.

One highlight of this year’s Festival promises to be the blockbuster concert of two musical masterpieces on 23rd March. Rising star Cordelia Williams will be the soloist in Schumann’s famous romantic Piano Concerto followed by Elgar’s much-loved orchestral suite, Enigma Variations which Elgar dedicated to ‘my friends pictured within.’ The Petersfield Orchestra will be conducted by Robin Browning.

Music lovers looking for smaller-scale entertainment may be tempted by a couple of chamber concerts in St Peter’s Church. The Anemos wind ensemble with pianist Karen Kingsley, are performing two masterpieces of the genre: Mozart’s wind quintet and Poulenc’s lively and exuberant sextet. Finally local musician Angela Zanders is giving a lecture-recital of Shostakovich’s Piano Trio no.2 on March 21st at 1pm.

Priority booking is open now with tickets on sale to the public from 6th February online or at One Tree Books. Full details of concerts, timings and ticket prices are available at: petersfieldmusicalfestival.org.uk

Ben Greaves - Associate at MacDonald Oates Solicitors

Patrick Jenkins - Partner and Head of Litigation at MacDonald Oates Solicitors

Mr Mac

Beware of cheap Apple, Fitbit and Samsung smartwatch lookalikes that snoop on users. According to a recent report in the Which consumer magazine all the cheap lookalike watches are full of security flaws including excessive tracking. Some of these watches are ridiculously cheap and purchasers might be fooled in to believing that they are a serious alternative to the real thing. They are not and should most definitely be avoided. The biggest problem is that they can look like the real thing!

All broadband providers give a basic router as part of their package and for small houses or apartments these are OK. For larger houses it is worth considering changing a basic router for one with Wi-fi 6 as this provides a much better coverage without the need for extenders or repeaters. Larger multi room properties will also benefit from adding a Mesh extender system. If anyone is considering doing this, please contact me for unbiased advice.

Most iPhones have great cameras, especially the iPhone 14 Pro. However, there are times when you might want to have a camera strap for security. I took a scenic train ride recently and it had an open carriage for taking photos. The driver made an announcement making it very clear that if anyone dropped their camera the train would not be stopping for them! It was then I wished I had a case with a strap. They are not expensive, just search online for phone cases with a lanyard strap, much cheaper than buying a new phone.

Andy - Mr Mac, 07392 552592

Maia's Flowers

Hi I'm Maia, I have been a florist for 7 years. I trained in Convent Garden, London also worked in London designing flowers for high end hotels. 5 years ago I relocated to Hampshire and opened my own shop in the small village of Selbourne. I have loved doing floristry for the community there, but as the business grew we needed a bigger premises to showcase our flowers and my passion for interior design so we opened our NEW shop on Lavant Street in Petersfield.

We can't wait to share this with you all, so why not pop in for a mooch, we look forward to seeing you soon!

Maia’s Flowers, Lavant Street, Petersfield, GU32 3EW

facebook: Maias-Flowers

Tel: 01730 719971

email:maiasflowers@outlook.com

Opening Times

Tue - 9am to 5pm

Wed - 9am to 5pm Thur - 9am to 5pm Fri - 9am to 5pm Sat - 9am to 4pm

Sun to Mon Closed

Maia's Flowers

Every man's best friend

In the market town of Petersfield, Hector's stands in the same spot that has historically served its local gentlemen with quality menswear for more than 80 years. Hector's was made in that image. We're the latest chapter in Petersfield's esteemed high-street.

Hector’s is a traditional gentlemen’s outfitters with a modern flourish a shop helping gents keep up their appearance in stylish kit. Because the classics cannot be rushed and sometimes fashion feels fast we are all about quality lasting style for the gentlemen of Petersfield and surrounding countryside.

Hector’s is a traditional gentlemen’s outfitters with a modern flourish a shop helping gents keep up their appearance in stylish kit. Because the classics cannot be rushed and sometimes fashion feels fast we are all about quality lasting style for the gentlemen of Petersfield and surrounding countryside.

“Everything down to the buttons tells its own story”

“Everything down to the buttons tells its own story”

We provide a complete range of menswear, our collection has everything from formal suits, jackets, coats, shirts, jumpers, hats and everything down to fine leather shoes and a full range of gentlemen’s grooming products.

We provide a complete range of menswear, our collection has everything from formal suits, jackets, coats, shirts, jumpers, hats and everything down to fine leather shoes and a full range of gentlemen’s grooming products.

Hector’s is also proud to offer a complete range of hirewear for every occasion.

Hector’s is also proud to offer a complete range of hirewear for every occasion.

Hire

We offer hired looks for all occasions, from weddings to other special events. Rent the look, feel the part.

Clothing

Style can be a tough fit to master. Yet, we have been suiting and booting gents from across the UK for 20+ years.

Accessories

Braces & Belts, Cravats, Face Grooming, Pewter Gifts, Umbrellas, Hats & Scarves and much, much more

Shoes & More

From brogues to boots, shop the full range of stylish men's Loake footwear online. Tailored for the modern gentleman.

Energise South Downs

At COP meetings world leaders reaffirm the climate emergency, stress the urgency of action “in this critical decade” and commit to moving away from fossil fuels. These are all fine words, but the question is always will they follow through with action? Away from the spotlight of global media attention, it’s all too easy for commitments to slip. Well, thanks to the burden of the unfortunate war in Ukraine, we are now seeing real resolve to decarbonise our energy supply here in the UK, from which there will hopefully be no turning back.

The south coast is no stranger to renewable energy. There are few locations up on the Downs from which it’s not possible to see the outstretched arms of the Rampion Wind Farm off the coast. The turbines have become as much of a local landmark as the trees of Chanctonbury Ring or the mast on Butser Hill. However, renewable energy is not just about making a big splash for all to see, it’s also about the multitude of small projects across the region that make an equally valuable contribution to our energy supply. Many of these installations have been put up by local Community Energy Co-Operatives. Never heard of an Energy Co-Op? In a nutshell, they find suitable renewable energy projects in their local area; raise capital from members, who often reside nearby; carry out the installation; sell the energy locally for less than it would have cost from the grid; and pay back investors from the sale of this energy. Assuming suitable sites can be found, it’s a very simple and effective model that brings significant benefit to local communities and businesses alike.

The South Downs area is home to some of the longest established and most respected Community Energy Co-Ops in the UK. Since 2007, OVESCO and Brighton Energy Co-op have invested millions of pounds in over 70 solar projects. However, no-one has thought to replicate this model at the western end of the Downs. That is until now. Set up earlier this year, and still very much in its infancy, Energise South Downs (ESD) is the brainchild of dynamic Petersfield mum Catriona Cockburn (see box). ESD has a remit to cut carbon emissions at the western end of the park and surrounding areas. To achieve this, Catriona has spent the last 6 months engaging with individuals and local community groups in our area to not only help identify a range of feasible projects for investors, but also to expand the group’s pool of volunteer expertise. One project that seems likely to make it off the drawing board, is with Petersfield Festival’s beer supplier Langham Brewery and landlord Cowdray Park. With energy costs a significant brewing overhead, Langham’s are keen to investigate how they might mitigate possible price rises. Co-owner Lesley Foulkes welcomes the idea of working with ESD, saying "Brewing is energy hungry, and given ever increasing energy costs, we need to find a more sustainable solution.

We are working with the University of Surrey to establish our technological, environmental, and economic baseline. Energy is a key component of their analysis. Being in the South Downs, we had practically ruled out the possibility of solar due to our location and were also fearful of the cost implications of alternative solutions. We were delighted to be introduced to ESD, who clearly presented not only a way through planning with the South Downs National Park Authority, but a route to funding. As a business we support local - energy solutions in the community, by the community and for the community!" To help keep the costs of a favourite local brewery in check, let’s hope this solar project makes it to the next stage.

If you are interested in renewable energy, have time or a particular skill that could benefit ESD ….or maybe know a local business or community project that could benefit from Energise South Downs helping reduce its energy costs & carbon footprint, do please get in touch with ESD at hello@ energisesouthdowns.org.uk

One of ITV's Most Popular Antiques Experts

Davina's Fashion of Warsash

Your local independent ladies’ fashion retailer catering for the discerning lady who likes stylish every day wear ideal for the home or office. Come and see what we have to offer. You’ll be pleasantly surprised with both the quality and the price. We also have a range of Mother of the Bride/Groom wear.

Find us in Warsash next to the Coop near the Clocktower. Free car parking available opposite.

Tel: 01489 880900

or shop online at: www.davinasladiesfashion.co.uk

7 Warsash Road, Warsash, Southampton, SO31 9HW

Open Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm

We are your local independent fashion retailer located in Warsash adjacent to the Coop and Clocktower. We have been established for 25 years, originally in Fareham, and in Warsash since 2018.

We have a full range of general clothing comprising dresses, tops, trousers, jeans and jackets. Our range goes from jeans to evening wear. We are currently receiving our latest spring and summer collections. This includes some fabulous summer dresses in resplendent colours. We also stock the Marble colourful range of sweaters and trousers at very reasonable prices. There are 3 rooms fully stocked and we welcome customers to come in and browse. We also welcome husbands and partners who wish to buy a surprise gift for their special lady. They are also encouraged to accompany you and help select your new wardrobe. Please don’t think our prices are out of your range deterring you from coming in. Do give us a try. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at both the quality and price.

We have a reputation for Condici Mother of the Bride/Groom outfits and currently have a choice of 140 to choose from. We also stock matching hats, hatinators, shoes and clutch bags making us a “one stop shop”.

There is a carpark opposite which is free for 4 hours. We hope we have enticed you to give us a try.

Do visit our website at www.davinasladiesfashion.co.uk which is a showcase of some of what we have to offer.

Peekaboo award-winning Practitioner based in the heart of Petersfield

OPENING TIMES

Monday by appointment only

Tuesday 9am -5pm

Wednesday 9am - 7pm

Rebecca has a big personality and a really relaxed way about her she combines being professional and honest with being highly qualified in cutting edge Aesthetics! Offering the latest techniques and up-to-date procedures all at affordable prices.

Rebecca stands out from the rest and this is recognised by the fact she has won over 22 awards for her make up and aesthetics work. She has been trained by some of the best doctors and surgeons in the industry. This allows her to transform her clients using the best and latest techniques.

Book a free honest professional consultation with an award winning salon in Hampshire.

Thursday 9am - 7pm

Friday 9am - 5pm

Saturday 9am - 5pm

Sunday Closed

33 Chapel Street

Petersfield Hampshire GU32 3DY

Origin Valentine'sofDay

People have been in love from time immemorial. It would be unjust to ascribe any particular history and origin to love and the feelings that come with it. But Valentine's Day, the day which celebrates love worldwide, sure has a history and origin of its own. February is historically chosen to be the month of love and romance and the month to celebrate Valentine's Day. Can you possibly overlook the deluge of love-drenched feelings, the slushy outbreak of 'being in love' and the pervasion of the color red all around when the calendar turns to the month of February? No. None of us can! For, the one thing that's inextricably linked to the month of February is Valentine's Day--the most coveted celebration after Christmas and a day kept aside to let love rule everywhere. Come what may, the hype and hoopla surrounding Valentine's Day never goes unnoticed, no matter which part of the world you are placed in! And Valentine's Day incidentally is the 2nd largest card-sending occasion, after Christmas.

Valentine's Day has shadows of both the Christian and Roman traditions. Celebrated famously on February 14 every year, some believe that Valentine's Day has its history and origin in the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia. The latter was an annual feasting and celebration by the Romans to keep fearful wolves at bay from damaging their crops. Lupercalia was celebrated on February 15 with the young men striking the women because it was believed that these blows would make them more fertile. This association of Lupercalia with fertility is probably one reason why Valentine's Day is linked to this ancient Roman festival. Also, on the eve of Lupercalia, which is on February 14, it was quite popular for young women to find their partners for the festival. The romantic origin of Valentine's Day can even be traced to this practice.

No matter what the history and origin of Valentine's Day includes, it sure includes this patron saint named St. Valentine. Now history even has it that there has been more than one legend related to St. Valentine. Summing two legends, we now know that there were two saints (of the same name Valentine) belonging to the early Christian church. One legend holds that when the Roman Emperor Claudius II forbade young men to marry to make better soldiers out of single men, a priest named Valentine defied the orders and secretly married young couples. Consequently he was beheaded on February 14 for his 'crime'. Some even hold that Valentine was killed for trying to help Christians escape the atrocities prevailing in

the Roman prisons. But whatever the facts, ever since, February 14 came to be celebrated as Valentine's Day commemorating this great patron of people in love worldwide. The other story talks of another Valentine who was a children's favorite but was despised by the Romans for his religious defiance. The Romans had him behind the bars but the children still managed to send fond messages to their favorite Valentine. The current custom of exchanging love messages on Valentine's Day might have roots to this age-old tale.

Yet another legend holds that when Valentine was in prison, he fell in love with the prison guard's daughter. And history states that before his death, he wrote a letter to his beloved signing off as 'From your Valentine'. It's not known to which extent these Valentine's Day legends related to its origin are true, but this expression 'From your Valentine' sure caught hold like wildfire. And people still send gifts and cards on Valentine's Day with this tag hanging from them--'From your Valentine'! So you keep the tradition going too.

Probably, the Americans began exchanging handmade Valentine's Day cards in the early years of the eighteenth century. And around 1840, a person called Esther A. Howland began selling the first big production of Valentine's Day greetings in America. Now, apart from all the facts and figures of Valentine's Day history and origin, one thing that's for sure is the choice of February as the month for celebrating love. In ancient Rome, February was the official kick-off month for the season of spring and was a time to feel happy all over again. Then in the Middle Ages, it was quite a popular belief in France and England that February was the birds' mating season. All these and many more taken together contributed to the consolidation of mid-February as the time for Valentines.

Finally, around 498 AD, Pope Gelasius I declared February 14 as St. Valentine's Day!

Sean Carter writes on holidays, Valentine's Day and world events. He also writes on family, relationships, celebrations, religion, love and friendship. He is a writer with special interest in ecard industry and writes for 123greetings.com. He is an active blogger at Valentines Day Blog.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Sean_Carter/42553

Garments and

The

Tues

A Little History of The Big Sale

The Petersfield Branch of the Save the Children Fund, as it was originally known, was formed on 20th March 1957 following a public meeting in the Town Hall at which Miss M.M. Ferguson, principal staff speaker of the organisation gave a talk entitled ‘Children in Distress’ in which she highlighted the fine work being done in nursery schools and junior clubs in Great Britain as well as the contribution of British nurses working with Hungarian refugees in Austria. Miss Ferguson stated the aim of the Save the Children Fund “to help any child in need regardless of race, colour or creed.” These aims have not changed since 1919 when Eglantine Jebb and Dorothy Buxton founded the organisation. After thanking Miss Ferguson, Admiral of the Fleet, Sir Algernon Willis, proposed that a Petersfield Branch should be formed. This was seconded by Major General H.T. Tollemache, and a committee duly elected. Two months later, May 15th a ‘Save the Children Day’ was held when gifts of children’s clothing in good condition were collected and sent to needy children.

The Petersfield Branch blossomed and in 1963 a very successful clothing sale was held in a committee member’s sitting room. It

grew into St Mary’s Church Hall, Liss by the mid 80’s before moving to the Petersfield Festival Hall where HRH Princess Anne, President of Save the Children, visited The Big Sale in 2013 on the the 50th anniversary of this incredibly popular event which has become the Branch’s biggest annual fundraiser achieving a staggering £25,000 in 2019 to help disadvantaged children in the Petersfield area, throughout the UK and worldwide before Covid struck. On its return in 2022 The Big Sale was held in the Tithe Barn at Ditcham, owing to the Festival Hall’s role as a vaccination centre. The Petersfield Branch Committee is delighted to be holding The Big Sale in the beautiful setting of the Tithe Barn again in 2023 opening with the fabulous Fashion Show on the 27th February highlighting the quality of the pre-loved clothing on offer.

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Put a “Spring” in Your Step

Since the beginning of the UK’s various Covid lockdowns, more people than ever have enjoyed the freedom and feeling of wellbeing that comes from walking in the countryside. In and around Petersfield we are lucky to have a variety of tracks and trails, some of which these walkers will have discovered.

Although many people enjoy the peace and tranquillity of walking alone, walking can be a very social pastime. It is now acknowledged to be a way to improve fitness whilst spending time with friends and family. However, you can also make new friends whilst walking if you to join a walking club, a double benefit!

The Petersfield Ramblers Club is an independent organisation formed over 50 years ago which means that there is a massive wealth of

knowledge of the local area within this friendly club. They walk twice a week throughout the year, generally within 20 miles of Petersfield. Walks usually start at 10am and a lift/car share, if required, can often be arranged.

In addition to regular local walks, there is an annual day out by coach, offered to members to a place of interest that will include walks for different levels of ability. Recent years have seen them visit Mottisfont, Kingston Lacy, Avebury and Devizes. Short 4-night annual holidays are also offered, last year in the Yorkshire Dales and this year will see them walking in the Shropshire Hills.

They are affiliated to the Ramblers Association and the South Downs Society. The membership fee is £5 per annum and potential new members can join 3 walks of their choosing before deciding if this club is for them. New members would undoubtedly be introduced to countless new, interesting walks and would meet a variety of people who enjoy walking. The Petersfield Ramblers website is full of information about the club, the current programme of walks, how to join, an interesting blog written by different members and a gallery of photos. What a great way to get into walking and exploring this wonderful area as it springs into life after the winter.

To find out more go to: www.petersfieldramblers.org

Moving play inspired by the

Love Letters of Playwright Anton Chekhov comes to Petersfield

great sensitivity, Chekhovian scholar and playwright Carol Rocamora weaves from their hundreds of letters a rich and passionate tale, told by two actors, of love and longing, of rapture and despair – while also giving us a glimpse into the creative brilliance of the great Moscow Art Theatre which produced Anton’s revolutionary plays.

An outstanding play inspired by the love letters of Russian playwright Anton Chekhov comes to Petersfield in February. Surrey professional theatre company LynchpPin stages I Take Your Hand in Mine by Carol Rocamora at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery on 15 February 2023. Anton Chekhov first met Olga Knipper at a rehearsal of his controversial play The Seagull in 1898. He was an established writer; she was a charismatic actress and a founding member of the new Moscow Art Theatre. As their love developed, most of their time was spent apart by necessity: due to his ill heath, Chekhov moved to Yalta where he wrote the masterpieces in which Olga would perform in Moscow. So began a unique correspondence which chronicled their growing artistic and personal relationship.

Anton wrote 412 love letters to Olga, and she as many to him, during their six-year relationship before Anton, aged 44, died of tuberculosis. With

Eloquent and moving, I Take Your Hand in Mine is a brilliant dramatisation of this creative couple’s careers and their passionate, evolving relationship – and the perfect play to see in the week of Valentine’s Day. Anton is played by Ray Murphy and Olga by Claire Parker. The production is directed by Edie Campbell. The drama marks the start of LynchPin’s year of productions at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, with more plays to be staged in May, June and September.

I Take Your Hand in Mine is performed as a reading at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, St Peter’s Road, Petersfield, Hampshire GU32 3HX on 15 February 2023 at 7:30pm (Doors open 7:00pm)

Tickets: £15. To book, phone 01730 262601 or visit www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

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Valentine's Day Red Velvet Cake

Ingredients

• 360g cake flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 2 Tablespoons (10g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 115g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

• 400g granulated sugar

• 240ml rapeseed or vegetable oil

• 4 large eggs, room temperature and separated

• 1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar

• liquid or gel red food coloring

• 240ml buttermilk, at room temperature

Cream Cheese Icing

450g full-fat block cream cheese, softened to room temperature

170g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

660g icing sugar

1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract pinch of salt, to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans, line with parchment paper rounds, then grease the parchment paper. Parchment paper helps the cakes seamlessly release from the pans.

Make the cake: Whisk the flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Set aside. Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until combined, about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed. Add the oil, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and vinegar and beat on high for 2 minutes. (Set the egg whites aside.) Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.

With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in 2-3 additions alternating with the buttermilk. Beat in your desired amount of food coloring just until combined. I use 1-2 teaspoons gel food coloring. Vigorously whisk or beat the 4 egg whites on high speed until fluffy peaks form as pictured above, about 3 minutes. Gently fold into cake batter. The batter will be silky and slightly thick.

Divide batter between cake pans. Bake for 30-32 minutes or until the tops of the cakes spring back when gently touched and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the cakes need a little longer as determined by wet crumbs on the toothpick, bake for longer. However, careful not to overbake as the cakes may dry out. Remove cakes from the oven and cool completely in the pans set on a wire rack. The cakes must be completely cool before frosting and assembling.

Make the Icing: In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a whisk or paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium-high speed until smooth, about 2 minutes. Add the icing sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to high speed and beat for 3 minutes until completely combined and creamy. Add more icing sugar if the icing is too thin or an extra pinch of salt if icing is too sweet. Icing should be soft, but not runny.

Assemble and add icing: Using a large serrated knife, slice a thin layer off the tops of the cakes to create a flat surface. Discard or crumble over finished cake. Place 1 cake layer on your cake stand or serving plate. Evenly cover the top with icing. Top with 2nd layer and spread remaining icing all over the top and sides. I always use an icing spatula and bench scraper for the icing. Refrigerate cake for at least 30-60 minutes before slicing. This helps the cake hold its shape when cutting.

Cover leftover cake tightly and store in the refrigerator for 5 days. Iced cake or un-iced cake layers can be frozen up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before decorating/serving.

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Local Events

Silversmith Workshop & Lunch

this weekend. Annual passes will not be given out on this weekend. However annual passes will be excepted if you already have one. Tickets includes entry to the house and gardens.

Coda – A Tribute To Led Zeppelin

Sky Park Farm, Petersfield, GU31 5PT

£189.99pp - Learn the art of wax carving, to cast and produce a silver pendant or ring, with local jewellery designer Nicci Bethell. Nicci will inspire and guide you through your design and wax carving, she will then cast your final piece after the course and return it to you. The three-hour course (9.30 – 12.30) will be followed by a set lunch in The Grazing Rooms. www.skyparkfarm.co.uk

Snowdrop Weekend

Sat 25th February

From 7pm - 10pm

TPS School, Cranford Road, Petersfield, GU32 3LU

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Gilbert White's House & Gardens

-Our annual celebration of the snowdrop! For one weekend only enjoy half price entry* to enjoy the coming of Spring. Our gardeners will be giving tours of the garden at 12pm & 2pm each day. *entry will be half the standard on the door entry price, other discounts will not apply

TPS Studio - CODA – a Tribute to Led Zeppelin are Europe’s most authentic and exciting Led Zeppelin tribute band, replicating the power, excitement and magic of a Led Zeppelin show like no other. They are the only proper four-piece Zep tribute band in Europe that looks and sounds as close to the real thing as possible, featuring authentic-looking and sounding instruments as well as incredible, hand- made replica costumes that will take you back to the time when the Gods of Rock ruled the world!

Churcher’s College Junior School & Nursery Open Afternoon

Friday 3rd March

From 1.45pm to 3pm

Churcher's College Junior School, Liphook, Hampshire

Organised to take place during the week, our ‘School in Action’ open events are a chance to see Churcher’s College during a ‘normal’ school day with an opportunity to listen to an

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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

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E: storage@silkservices.co.uk

Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH

T: 01962 771815

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

introduction by the Head of the Junior School & Nursery and take a guided tour with our pupils.

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T: 01962 771815

Grimm fairy tales (for families and children!)

dancing flames of the fire in Butser’s huge Celtic roundhouse. Thrill at the magic, adventure, loves, losses and gruesome monsters that stalk the dark forests and deep mountains.

There will be a bar selling locally produced cider, mead and a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Hot drinks and snacks will also be available to be purchased from our shop.

Friday 3rd March

From 4pm to 6pm

Butser Ancient Farm, Chalton Lane, Hampshire, PO8 0BG

Join award-winning storyteller

Jason Buck around the crackling fire in Butser’s Great Roundhouse as he brings traditional fairy tales to life.

Settle in and listen to old stories told live, as they were always meant to be, as you watch the

Traditional British and European fairy tales for adults and families.

Ages: Adults and children (6+)you can book a later show aimed at adults and older children

www.butserancientfarm.co.uk

If you would like to advertise your local event Free of Charge on our Local events page then please email: editor@ forumpublications.co.uk. Please note - Publication cannot be guaranteed

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