Test Valley 114 by Mark Tubb

Test Valley

FORUM DECEMBER 2017 • ISSUE 114 • WWW.FORUMPUBLICATIONS.CO.UK • REACHING 18,750 READERS * STOCKBRIDGE ROMSEY

MICHELMERSH GRATELEY

HORSEBRIDGE

UPPER CLATFORD TIMSBURY

AMPORT

KIMBRIDGE

MONXTON

PENTON MEWSEY

KING’S SOMBORNE

NETHER WALLOP

WEYHILL

AWBRIDGE MIDDLETON

CHARLTON

HOUGHTON

MIDDLE WALLOP

ANDOVER

BROUGHTON

OVER WALLOP

DUNBRIDGE LONGPARISH

LOCKERLEY

LONGSTOCK

SPARSHOLT

LOCKERLEY GREEN

CHOLDERTON

ENHAM ALAMEIN

LECKFORD

CRAWLEY

EAST DEAN

SHIPTON BELLINGER

HATHERDEN

TANGLEY

CHILBOLTON

WHERWELL

WEST DEAN

THRUXTON

VERNHAM DEAN

GOODWORTH CLATFORD

ABBOTTS ANN

KIMPTON

UPTON

LITTLE ANN

EAST TYTHERLEY FYFIELD

BRAISHFIELD

WEST TYTHERLEY

APPLESHAW

HURSTBOURNE TARRANT

CLANVILLE

LD SO

LD SO St Mary Bourne

Upper Chute

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O UR TEA M

Inside

Editor - Mark Tubb Tel: 01962 735137 editor@forumpublications.co.uk Sub Editor - Emma Sumpster Tel: 07450 575284 emma@forumpublications.co.uk Advertising Director - Steve Walker Tel: 01962 735137 stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk Advertising Manager - Mandy Head Tel: 01962 735137 mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk Design Manager - Mark Tubb Tel: 01962 735137 editor@forumpublications.co.uk Senior Designer - James Curtis Advertising & Creative Design james@forumpublications.co.uk

Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk

CO NTRIBU TO R S Copy Writer - Gill Grant gill@forumpublications.co.uk Copy Writer - Claire Thurlow claire@forumpublications.co.uk

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

JANUARY COPY DEADLINE DECEMBER 11TH Printed on recycled paper

The Test Valley Forum contains facts, views, opinions, statements, recommendations, advertisements and other content and links to external websites not owned or controlled by the magazine. The Test Valley Forum takes reasonable efforts to include accurate, current information on its pages, but make no warranties or representations as to the accuracy, safety or value of the published items that are displayed. No liability or responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions in magazine content. The Test Valley Forum magazine content does not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or recommendations of its creators and any reliance upon its content is taken at the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sole risk. Adverts designed by Forum Publications remain the magazine's legal ownership. ÂŠ Forum Publications Ltd, 2017 * Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household

05 Community

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

6, 12, 18, 28, 30, 32

15 Professional

From photographers to solicitors - every professional service you need

06 Wellbeing

20 Features

08 Food & Drink

34 22 Retail/Market Square

Looking after your health and yourself!

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

10 Garden

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

14 Education

Find local schools and educational experts

Jane's Kitchen, Stockbridge Christmas

Our regular retail feature Unique, Bespoke, Eclectic and Local shopping

25 Culture

The diverse theatre, music, arts and crafts of Hampshire

31 Home

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

make your kitchen a happy kitchen by changing the doors, worktops and accessories

Test Valley Forum readers save 30% during December

We are now taking bookings for January 2018 and places are filling up fast. Treat yourself to a new kitchen this Christmas and receive excellent discounts when you wrap up your order before the end of 2017.

Testimonial “We had just moved and wanted to update and bring colour and a contemporary feel into our existing kitchen but wanted to avoid the large Corporate Companies. We found the answer in Happy Kitchens when Ben brought his showroom to us, and the experience of choosing units and colours turned out to be an exciting one, rather than daunting and disappointing. When it came to installation, the team of fitters including Martin, James and Mitch were spot-on with their time keeping, efficiency and workmanship. We were consulted where decisions mattered and nothing seemed too much trouble. We are both thrilled with our kitchen and can’t believe the transformation. Post customer service is as important and they can’t be faulted. They even returned to check all the units a week later for any ‘tweaks’. A happy team, led by Ben and we would 100% recommend them. They deserve to do well.” Thank you” – Jane Wareham

DECEMBER

UNTIL 23 DECEMBER Christmas Art Exhibition At The Wykeham Gallery, High Street, Stockbridge, Hants.Tel: 01264 810364

Tickets: £10.00 per adult, under 16s go free includes a glass of wine, soft drink and biscuits Please go to: http://kidsontrackcarols2017. eventbrite.co.uk to purchase your tickets online or to send a cheque. contact: Miranda Chetwode Email: kidsontrackcarols@gmail.com or Tel: 01264 771918

7 DECEMBER Mayfly Vintage Late Night Opening Mulled wine, mince pies and 10% off all stock between 5-7pm. Come to our Christmas late night opening. Ample car parking. Mayfly Vintage, Chilbolton Down Farm, Stockbridge, SO20 6BU. www.mayflyvintage.co.uk

9 DECEMBER

1 DECEMBER Christmas in Stockbridge Stockbridge Christmas is a fabulous event that takes place on the first Friday of December from 4.30pm.There will be a Christingle Service in St Peters and then the lights will be switched on. Carol singers,Test Valley Brass Band, fire eaters, jugglers, stalls, carriage rides on Santa sleigh, Santa's grotto and lots more. Piers Morgan to be switching the lights on with Alex Lewis. Nearly all the shops are open offering refreshments and there will be a Christmas hat competition, judging in the Town Hall after the main switch on. Come prepared and join in! This is a free event to attend and ample parking is provided. Go along to Stockbridge and kick start the festive season!

Wherwell Singers Chrtismas Concert: The Nativity 7:30pm at St. Peter & Holy Cross Church, Wherwell.Tickets £10. Join the Wherwell Singers as we celebrate the Christmas Story through music with a programme including Byrd, Palestrina, Pärt, Chilcott, Rutter and much more.There will also be the traditional sing-along carols, mulled wine and mince pies. For more information, visit www.wherwellsingers.org, email info@ wherwellsingers.org, or call 01264 720529.

3 DECEMBER The Kids on Track Family Carol Service At St Mary's Church, Andover SP10 1DP at 5pm. Kids on Track, Andover helps local children keep their lives on track, giving them the opportunity to take part in fun, non-residential activity camps during half-terms and holidays.

14 DECEMBER Nativity on the Farm From 5.30pm, come and walk through a live nativity at Broughton Water Buffalo! Followed by Carols in the Barn, mulled wine, steamy soul bowl food & mince pies. Everyone welcome! Free entry and half of the proceeds from drinks & food will be donated to Shelter. Broughton Water Buffalo, Broughton, SO20 8AN

17 DECEMBER West End Singers Concert 2.30 to 5pm at Thornden Hall,Winchester Road, Chandlers Ford, SO53 2DW. Start your Christmas celebrations with us; we have a packed programme full of beautiful melodies, with many festive favourites – our trademark eclectic mix, with music from Carole King, Coldplay, Labi Siffre and a song from Shrek! Tickets – Adults £11, Concessions £10, Children free. Mulled wine available from the bar.Tickets can be purchased online direct from Thornden Hall http://bit.ly/2017WES or call the Box Office on 023 8024 6555. For further information call 07400 367836 or email us at chairman@westendsingers.co.uk.There will be a retiring collection in aid of Pelican Cancer Foundation.

21 DECEMBER

3 DECEMBER Stockbridge Community CInema: Despicable Me 3 (Cert U) Gru meets his long-lost charming, cheerful, and more successful twin brother Dru who wants to team up with him for one last criminal heist. A fund-raising family film on behalf of Stockbridge Primary School. Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall SO20 6HE. Doors open at 2.30pm for a 3pm start.Tickets £5.00 from Garden Inn and John Robinson in Stockbridge or online via our website www. stockbridgecinema.org.uk See our website for special Stockbridge meal deals.

A Winchester Christmas in aid of the NSPCC Celebrity carol concert and reception hosted by Dame Esther Rantzen DBE with Alastair Stewart OBE, celebrity readers, Sansara Choir, Andrew Lumsden, organist and BBC Young Chorister of the Year 2015, Agatha Pethers Thursday 14th December 2017 7.30pm In Winchester College Chapel, College Street, Winchester, SO23 9NA.Tickets £30 (Concert) or £55 (Concert and Champagne Reception) Tickets available from: awinchesterchristmas.co.uk

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What's On

14 DECEMBER

13 DECEMBER Interlude in Prague (Cert 15) The incredible tale of Mozart's Prague years. The events that unfold are not a biographical retelling but a captivating fictitious story, a turbulent tragedy that inspires one of Mozart’s most famous of pieces Don Giovanni through his heartbreak. Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall SO20 6HE. Being shown at 5pm and 7.30pm. Doors open 30 minutes before the start time.Tickets £5.00 from Garden Inn and John Robinson in Stockbridge or online via our website www.stockbridgecinema.org.uk See our website for special Stockbridge meal deals

Chris Powell in Concert presented by WEOS An evening of melodic, easy listening music, with a festive theme - performed on electronic keyboard.Venue: Fairground Hall,Weyhill, SP11 0QN.Tickets £5 in advance, from Just Teasin, 40 Bridge Street, Andover - or £6 at the door. For further information phone 01264 323213 or visit www.weyhill-eos.co.uk

22 DECEMBER Romsey Singers: A Feast of Christmas Music 7.30pm at Romsey Abbey. Our varied programme includes wonderful music by Stanford,Tavener, Finzi, Brahms and Britten and is followed by favourite Carols for choir and audience.Tickets: In advance: £16, £14, £12 or, On the door on the night: £2 more. Romsey Tourist Information Centre, 13 Church Street, Romsey.Tel 01794 512987 Online ticketing - www.romseysingers.org This is a Music in Romsey event.

COMMU N IT Y WELLBEIN G ISSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MBER

Community

ANDOVER HAIRDRESSER RECEIVES BUSINESS INCENTIVE GRANT

LITTLE LITTER PICKERS!

e are lucky enough to have more than 240 Community Litter Pickers in the borough and Test Valley Borough Council is praising two of the youngest helpers, Leah and Mason. Mason was just five years old when he first started litter picking with his big sister in Picket Twenty, Andover. A neighbour spotted the pair, mentioned that they could register with Test Valley Borough Council and the rest is history. Mason said: “We enjoy it because the Council gives us a litter picker, bags and a hi-vis top to help us litter pick so we didn’t have to buy our own! They also send us newsletters in the post to thank us for litter picking in the community – and the letters are addressed to us!” Leah added: “We have been Community Litter Pickers for about two years and we will continue for as long as we can. It was very simple to sign up and we have told a few of our friends who have also joined up. We would definitely recommend it to others” Environment Portfolio Holder, Councillor Graham Stallard commented: “I would like to thank Leah and Mason for their litter picking and for their fantastic enthusiasm. I was also very impressed with Mason’s litter picking self-portrait. It is clear - they really do Love Where They Live” Leah and Mason are now encouraging others to join in too. Mason said “If as many people as possible joined up and litter picked their own road it would make the whole area look a lot cleaner and be a nicer place to live. But you must always make sure you go with an adult and wear gloves!” Councillor Stallard agreed: “Staying safe while picking litter is a must, and that is why our web site has guidance and checklists for community litter pickers. I would encourage anyone getting involved to look at these on line.” For more information on becoming a Community Litter Picker and the Love Where You Live initiative, visit www.testvalley.gov.uk/ love.You can also keep up to date on the initiative by visiting www. facebook.com/lovewhereyoulivetestvalley Watch Councillor Stallard, Leah and Mason in action with their litter picking www.testvalley.gov.uk/ CommunityLitterPickers 6

n Andover hairdresser has launched her new solo career by renting space at a large salon on Colenzo Drive. Danielle Hodgson worked at Jason Cousins Hair Salon for nine years before taking the step to self-employment at the venue she knows so well. Danielle began her training as an apprentice at Jason Cousins and sailed through qualifications in hairdressing and barbering before spending another four years as an employee. Her new business, called Hair by Danielle, offers customers a range of services from simple trims to vast changes. Danielle said: “I’m really pleased that I made the decision to go self-employed. I know the salon really well and I’m happy that I can continue working at Jason’s. Most of the hairdressers at the salon are self-employed, so the concept works really well.” St Mary’s ward member, Councillor David Denny, said: “I am pleased to present Danielle with Test Valley Borough Council’s £750 Business Incentive Grant. The Council actively encourages business-minded people to achieve their ambitions and support the local Testeconomy. ValleyThe Forum concept of self-employed hairdressers under one roof clearly works very well at Jason’s and so I wish Danielle the best of luck.”

Yoga

The Council’s Business Incentive Grants are available to anyone looking to set up their own business in Test Valley. Anyone who successfully applies for the grant will receive a grant of £750 if their business is still going strong six months later. www.testvalley.gov.uk

Studio

Yoga

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OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE

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Also Massage Therapy Pilates, 1 to 1 and small group Homeopathy Naturopathy

WELLBEIN G I SSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MB E R

OPENING JANUARY 2018

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Online Bookings available for Osteopathy and Massage via the website

Tel: 01264 810028 www.the-SOP.com reception@the-SOP.com STOCKBRIDGE OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE - HIGH STREET, STOCKBRIDGE, SO20 6HF

Edible Wildflower Seeds

espoke playhouse specialist Wallgarden is launching a seed mix of edible wildflowers.Working with award-winning garden designer and Chelsea medallist Sarah Eberle, the collection has been carefully selected to bring colour to your garden and flavour to your plate. Above all it is designed to encourage families to celebrate and interact with their garden. Sarah Eberle’s unique seed selection will inspire parents to teach children not only about gardening, but about how their food can be grown.

How do I sow the seeds?

Our wildflower mix is suited to a broad range of environments and is a mix of annual, biennial and perennial plants. Some of the varieties will establish quickly while others take a bit more time to mature and all plants react differently to different soil types. Best sown in spring into weed-free, lightly prepared not over-rich soil. Simply scatter in the seed and rake over. The flowers will be ready for picking in the summer.

About Wallgarden

Wallgarden creates bespoke playhouses and inspirational children’s gardens. Our work enables families to enjoy being outside all year round. Our playhouses and gardens are magical environments, providing children with a unique space of their own. Everything inside the playhouse and out is exclusively tailored for each project and family’s individual interests.

‘A garden is often a child’s introduction to nature, a beautiful environment to engage with and enjoy all things green. Sowing seeds with your children is not only a wonderful way to inspire a love of their own garden, but this unique collection will also help teach them about where their food comes from and how it arrives on their plates.’ - Sarah Eberle, multi-award winning landscape designer; 15 times RHS Gold Medallist

Edible wildflower mix

The hand-picked mix of native and nonnative varieties have been selected for their flavour and visual appeal. We hope they will inspire you to celebrate all that your garden can offer. All of the plants grown from our seed varities are edible. The mix includes Borage, Chicory, Great Burnet, Hedge Garlic, Meadowsweet, Red Clover, Salad Burnet, Wild Basil, Wild Garlic and Wild Marjoram.

‘Our business is a celebration of the outdoors, and for most children that connection starts at home, in their garden. Wallgarden’s work with Sarah combines our great passions and shared belief that gardens should be relevant, beautiful and useable places, which inspire a lifelong interest for all the family.’ - Nadine Charlton, Founder and Director For more details please contact Nadine Charlton on: Tel: 07502 355536 nadinecharlton@icloud.com www.wallgarden.co

info@wallgarden.co www.wallgarden.co

EST 1947

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL OF US AT HILTONBURY!

FRESH RAW JERSEY

MILK & CREAM for sale at:

UPLANDS FARM, Winchester Street, Botley, SO30 2AA and at

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Pasteurised Milk Coming Soon We are happy to supply tea shops, coffee shops, & local farm shops

Support your Local Dairy Farm

WELLBEIN G F OOD & DR IN K ISSU E 114 | D E CE MBER

HILTONBURY JERSEYS

Follow Hiltonbury Jerseys on Facebook

Contact Oliver or Julie on: 07977 933470 hiltonbury_jerseys@btinternet.com www.hiltonburyjerseys.co.uk

In need of some great gift ideas this Christmas? The deli shelves are piled high with foodie treats; perfect for stocking fillers, hampers, friends and family.

We are now taking orders for your Christmas cheese boards as well as fish! Seafood platters, lobster, smoked salmonâ&#x20AC;¦ Pop in to discuss your Christmas order with us!

Wishing all our customers a very Merry Christmas & a Happy 2018! Tel: 01264 810101

www.thymeandtidesdeli.co.uk

Thyme & Tides Deli The High Street Stockbridge SO20 6HE

PR OMOTION ISSUE 114 | DECEMBER

Christmas Legends

o you know that many Christmas traditions have pagan origins very strongly linked to nature and our landscape? The Pagan winter solstice goes back thousands of years when evergreen trees were brought into the home and decorated with wax candles to create light symbolizing the sun, moon and stars. Called Yule trees and along with the simple decorations of holly and candles, this festival marked the darkest days of winter. Interestingly, and also linked with nature, another legend associated with the winter solstice is that of the annual ‘battle of the Oak and Holly Kings ‘where the Oak King overcomes the Holly King to reign until the summer solstice.

The Show Begins

So the event of the Christmas tree as we know it today evolved slowly over the centuries. The first known Christmas tree went up in the UK at Windsor Castle in 1800. Small wax candles, apples, nuts, dates, sweets and coloured paper flowers decorated and added light to the branches. It was an associate inventor of Edison’s who created the first set of electrical Christmas lights and in 1890, the Edison company published a brochure offering lighting services for Christmas. By 1900, commercial premises were beginning to string up lights in their shop windows. An Edison advert at that time offered bulbs, which you could rent, along with their lighting system for use over the festive season.

Fairy Lights

Small Christmas lights only became known as fairy lights after the light opera company D’Oyle Carte in 1882 used tiny incandescent lights in the hair of their players in a comic production about an immortal band of fairies. However, it would be another century before fairy lights came into more general use because until the mid 1950’s most households, either did not have electricity or could not afford it. This meant that until this time, it was still very popular to use candles to light up Christmas trees.

White Christmas

In recent years, it is rare that we see a white Christmas. It was the Victorians who first used illustrated snow scenes at Christmas. Not least because of Charles Dickens timely story ‘A Christmas Carol’. Also, Britain was still in the middle of a mini ice age with many of the Victorian winters seeing substantial snowfall. In 1836 on the 25th December, snow depths reached 15 feet with drifts of up to 50 feet!

Themed Christmas Trees

Seasonal décor is becoming increasingly sophisticated and it is on-trend to have trees dressed not only singular colours or a maximum of two colours, but also as a theme. There are decorations and baubles that symbolise style, humour, vintage items, toys and animals. We can now have trees to keep both the adults and the children happy! We can recreate the atmosphere of a white Christmas with a silver and white tree or amuse the children with a red and green tree decorated with imps and elves! Or indulge in some nostalgia from a more recent bygone age and make a vintage tree adorned with the bright ornaments and tinsel of four decades ago.

Inspired by Nature

It seems current festive trends reflect a strong demand for man made decorations and artificial trees, which are very difficult to tell from the real thing.Yet, the simplicity and special touch of nature still inspires us. So we use a combination of both contemporary decorations and foliage we can gather from our gardens and the landscape. Holly and ivy to drape over mantelpieces, wreaths of evergreen branches to adorn doors and casual bunches of mistletoe to hang in halls. It seems, in the midst of the winter solstice, we still have a hankering to return to the ancient world of nature, which of course, was the very reason, so long ago, those pagan and mid winter, traditions first began. Hambrooks of Titchfield 01489 572285

G A R DEN I SSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MB E R

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COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MB E R

Community APPLESHAW SANTA DASH - A FUN FAMILY EVENT TO GET YOU IN THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT RETURNS FOR ITS 2ND YEAR!!!

FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR RURAL BUSINESSES IN SOUTHERN TEST VALLEY

inancial help is available for rural businesses in Test Valley Borough and the local Council is encouraging applications, particularly from those in the southern part of the borough before the funding ends.

LEADER is an EU programme designed to support rural businesses with grants worth up to 40% towards capital projects such as buildings, machinery and equipment up to a maximum of £75,000 per application. Businesses in central Test Valley have already benefited from funding to help with schemes such as converting farm buildings into business units, visitor accommodation and dairy farming equipment. Economic Development and Tourism Portfolio Holder, Councillor David Drew, said: “This is a great opportunity for rural businesses. Get in now as the programme runs out early in 2019 and applications need to be submitted as soon as possible to be in with a chance. “Businesses in central Test Valley have already received significant help from LEADER. However, progress is slower in the south of the borough and I would strongly encourage anyone to find out whether they are eligible. Please go to www.newforestleader.org.uk for more information.”

ollowing the success of the first Santa Dash in 2016, plans are afoot for an even more festive Santa Dash on Sunday 10th December at 11.00am 2017. Whether you fancy a festive run, jog or a wintery walk with the dog, the 3km route around this beautiful village starts and ends at the Walnut Tree pub. Entrance fee includes a Santa suit for adults and reindeer antlers for children as well as free refreshments at the finish line and if you have all been good there may even be an appearance from The REAL Santa!! Run, jog or walk 3km around Appleshaw, starting and ending at the Walnut Tre e pub, whilst raising money for The Basing Unit at Basingstoke Hospital. Entry Fees: Adults and Teenagers (Aged 13+) £8.00 (includes Santa Suit*) Children (Aged 4 to 12) £5 (includes antlers and red nose*) Under 3's and 4 legged friends – FREE (no antlers supplied, but fancy dress encouraged!) *Santa suits will be available for collection prior to the event - details to follow closer to date As well as lots of dashing Santa’s there will be Festive music by Kim G and the mulled wine will be flowing; https://www.facebook.com/kimgvocalist To sign up please visit https://billetto.co.uk/e/appleshaw-santa-dash2017-tickets-196960 Cake donations on the day welcome, as is support with marshalling the race and supporting in other aspects of event - please email arcsantadash@outlook.com to let us know if you can help support us in any way. It would be great to see as many of you as possible at the event which is guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit and we look forward to welcoming you to the village once again. All proceeds raised will be donated to The Basing Unit at Basingstoke Hospital - Helping to make life’s more comfortable for those receiving chemotherapy.

Test valley is covered by three LEADER programmes: North Wessex Downs, covering Bourne Valley; Loddon and Test, covering central Test Valley; and New Forest, covering rural southern Test Valley.

CABINET ANNOUNCES NEW CAPITAL PROJECTS

utdoor fitness equipment and a new play area are just two of the projects that Test Valley Borough Council’s Cabinet have agreed to fund next year as part of a three year capital investment programme totalling £50m.

At a meeting on Wednesday 15 November, the authority’s Cabinet gave the go-ahead for outdoor exercise equipment to be installed at Knightwood Leisure Centre and a footpath to link the centre and pre-school to Skys Wood Road. In addition, Nursling is set to benefit from some new infant play equipment. Finance Portfolio Holder, Councillor Peter Giddings, said: “These are just some of the important projects we have committed to delivering this year. The outdoor exercise equipment at Knightwood will complement the facilities available at the leisure centre and will provide an additional way for people to be active.” Leader of the Council, Councillor Phil North said: “When I visited Valley Park Ward over the summer, Councillor Alan Dowden expressed his desire for a new footpath to be installed to make access to the leisure centre and pre-school safer. I’m pleased we have been able to fund it.” A children’s play area will also be installed in Nursling to increase opportunities for youngsters to climb, play and explore with vibrant new equipment. The projects are scheduled to start in spring 2018. www.testvalley.gov.uk

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GAZEBOS & ACCESSORIES

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balustrade infill panels. Delivery and assembly on to level

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

back page of this brochure.

pre-prepared base is also included in the price.

With all the benefits of a thatched or timber roofed Gazebo

from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true!

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

Equestrian Fencing Services High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath, Southampton, Hampshire, SO32 2JR

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

from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true! With all the benefits of a thatched or timber roofed Gazebo

With all the benefits of a thatched or timber roofed Gazebo

pre-prepared base is also included in the price.

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

balustrade infill panels. Delivery and assembly on to level

Unless stated allfound Gazebos come with a deck base, solid and A full set of gazebo accessories can be on the inside

Unless stated all Gazebos come with a deck base, solid and

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

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

Gazebos are available to further enhance your comfort

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

Specifically designed accessories to fit our range of

BIRCH NETS £5.95 (each)

weather conditions there may be a chance of water

KINDLING £2.95 (each)

WOOD WOOL FIRELIGHTERS £4.65 (Box of 50) All prices subject to VAT and Delivery

FIRE BRIQUETTES £3.80 (Bag of 12)

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

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

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

Gazebos from carefully selected timber from well managed

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

Equestrian Fencing Services offer an extensive range of

reality - it just couldn’t be easier.

back page of this brochure. A full set of gazebo accessories can be found on the inside invest in a roof liner to improve water protection. ingress. We recommend with the thatched range that you weather conditions there may be a chance of water environment. It is important to appreciate that in severe materials. They are designed to provide a shower proof

Mixed Hardwood: £155 Oak: £165 Ash: £185

from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true!

KILN DRIED FIREWOOD

All gazebos from Equestrian Fencing Services are made

reality - it just couldn’t be easier.

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

party.turn A thatched timber roofed party. A thatched or timber roofed Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services will yourordreams intoGazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services will turn your dreams into Whether of simply relaxing with a well earned glass of wine, or are hosting that never to be forgotten al-fresco Whether you dream of simply relaxing with a well earned glass of wine, or are hosting that never you to bedream forgotten al-fresco

www.equestrianfencing.com

email: info@equestrianfencing.com

H I G H R I D G E F A R M , H O S P I T A L R O A D, S H I R R E L L H E A T H , S O U T H A M P T O N , S O 3 2 2 J R Live the Dream with a Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services

Live the Dream with a Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services

V I E W U S O N G O O G L E E A RT H

GAZEBOS & ACCESSORIES

GAZEBOS & ACCESSORIES Come & Visit Our Yard & Display Area

Come & Visit Our Yard & Display Area

EDU CAT ION I SSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MB E R

Education

CHRISTMAS AT GODOLPHIN

SHOWCASING THE TALENTS OF

GODOLPHIN’S MUSIC SCHOLARS

odolphin’s recent Scholars’ Concert showed that there is no shortage of talent in the school’s Music Department. Girls ranging in age from 11 to 18 performed a wide ranging programme, from Mozart to Coldplay.

Their achievements were even more impressive considering the concert was so early in the academic year and many of the groups had only been formed in September. Half of the ensembles were performing together for the first time, giving many of the new scholars the chance to make music together.

The award-winning Vocal Ensemble opened the concert with a stunning performance of the Gloria from Benjamin Britten’s Missa Brevis, a challenging piece that was perfect for the Ensemble, being set for three part treble choir and piano. Their mastery of the complex time signature and contrasting solos and unison singing were particularly impressive. There then followed performances from 10 chamber music ensembles, all of whom were poised, confident and accomplished. The younger groups performed particularly well, showing that there is a bright future for music-making at the school. The concert ended with a fitting finale from The Jazz Ensemble who sounded like a professional band as they played ‘In The Mood’, resulting in huge applause from a very appreciative audience.

The highlight of October was the Literary Festival, which lasted five days and featured several prominent writers. Evening lectures were open to the public and many local schools were invited to age appropriate talks during the days.

he Christmas tree is standing in the Main Hall. The girls are singing carols. The elves are beavering away at their Secret Santa gifts… and before you blink, another term has passed.

Receiving outstanding A-level and GCSE results in August and welcoming 92 new girls to Godolphin in early September seems like a lifetime ago. But we hit the ground running with a jam packed September featuring a whole school Eucharist in the Cathedral, followed by a community walk; then we welcomed former members of staff to lunch, and many of them stayed on to enjoy the Celebrating Music afternoon featuring alumnae and current students. This was the second in our series of countdown events to the 300th anniversary celebrations in 2026. We ended the month with a formal dinner in the Main Hall for former and present governors.

The second weekend in November is always a busy one for the school with the Independent Schools Show in Battersea, the service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving in the Henry VII Chapel, Westminster Abbey, and our own Remembrance Service at school and the CCF participating in the Remembrance Parade in Salisbury. This year, we hosted a Bright Futures with Humanities event as well, welcoming back alumnae who had studied humanities to talk about their careers. Hats off to Mrs Hattersley who attended all five events over three days.

Chamber Music is a very important part of the music provision at Godolphin and many of the ensembles who performed in the concert will go on to take part in the national Pro Corda Festival in the spring. www.godolphin.org 14

And so to December, with the Christmas tree standing in the hall, the girls singing carols, the Secret Santa and the Carol Service in Salisbury Cathedral. From all the staff and students at Godolphin, we wish you and your family a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year. www.godolphin.org

all proceeds going to the nominated charity. Members of the three local churches will provide teas at Longstock Park Nursery on these Sundays. Only registered Assistance Dogs will be admitted to the garden and care should be taken to leave no litter.For more information: 01264 810924

Maintaining Hampshire's Paddocks to Perfection

07594 443 618

* Grass Cutting * Hay Making, Baling * Topping, Rolling * Ploughing, Rotavating * Grass Cutting * Harrowing, Seeding & Fertilising * Fencing * Scrub Clearance & Excavation

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• Cover your guests come rain or shine • • Ideal for garden parties, weddings or corporate events • • Dress your event with our stylish marquees and gazebos • • Dancefloors, Flooring, Bar, Lighting and Decoration available • For a free site visit please call:

01794 389150 / 07826 916114

G A R DEN EDU CAT ION P R OF ESSIONA L ISSUE 114 | DECEMBER

Paddock Perfection

team@stockbridgemarquees.com www.stockbridgemarquees.com

HOUSEKEEPER WANTED

Widower living in Stockbridge invites applications for position of part-time or full-time housekeeper Must be non-smoker. Working hours, job specification and pay to be discussed at interview

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Serving Hampshire Since 1860

PR OMOTION ISSUE 114 | DECEMBER

Barcelona, New York and now Andover PHOTOS2PRINT IS FIRST UK PHOTO RETAILER TO

FRONT FUJIFILM’S WONDER PHOTO SHOP CONCEPT

ndover’s photo services & cartridge shop Photos2Print – previously Cartridge & Personalised Print World – grand reopening was on the 2nd November 2017 with The Worshipful The Mayor, Councillor Carl Borg-Neal and past Mayor Mrs Pat West (who opened the store some 14 years ago with Mark and Lesley-Ann). Photos2Print, located on Bridge Street, Andover, is the first retailer in the UK to use FUJIFILM’s Wonder Photo Shop concept – a concept first developed in Tokyo to combat the decline in photo printing. The Wonder Photo Shop forgets the old clinical style of photo developing, with a radically fresh approach. By utilising the hugely successful instax camera, FUJIFILM’s new concept appeals to a younger audience, inspiring the generation of digital and mobile photographers. FUJIFILM has worked hard to understand the consumer shopping experience, and has produced a concept designed to stimulate, inspire and engage with shoppers of all ages. Since Tokyo, similar concept stores have launched around the world in prime locations including New York and Barcelona. Until now, the concept hasn’t been seen in the UK. “We were excited by FUJIFILM’s research in this area, and after visiting the Barcelona store and seeing the concept for ourselves, we knew it was the right direction for our cartridge and photo business” says Lesley-Ann Simmonds, who owns Photos2Print alongside her husband Mark Simmonds. 16

“We completely revamped our shop in line with FUJIFILM’s new concept and were delighted to be asked to be the first retailer to offer the Wonder Photo Shop Concept in the UK, although it doesn’t quite have the same excitement as New York or Barcelona, we’ve certainly put Andover on the map. We started as Cartridge World some 14 years ago and have worked hard over the years to adapt and change our business from a cartridge shop to now offering a complete photo, print and cartridge service” say’s Lesley-Ann Simmonds. What’s New Mark and Lesley-Ann have worked hard to create a fun shopping experience for their customers. A scrapbooking and crafting area has been created, allowing customers to design and paint their own photo frames, scrapbooks and so much more in-store. “The Wonder Photo Shop concept is very important to Fujifilm as it represents our vision of what a modern photo retail store should be. It takes consumer photo beyond just a 6x4 print into a whole world of creativity and fun. With Photo2Print, Mark & Lesley-Ann have brought that vision to the UK. It makes me very proud that they believed this was the future for their business too and I look forward to working with them and their fantastic team on even more new ideas for photo products and services in the future”. Peter Wigington, Marketing Manager Photo Imaging Group.

Nursery

Holiday Club

After School Club

www.norman-court.org

Norman Court, West Tytherley, SP5 1NH

EDU CAT ION P R OF ESSION A L ISSU E 114 | D E CE MBER

School

To find out more about what we have to offer please contact us on 01980 322 322 or email hello@norman-court.org

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MB E R

Community

HARROW WAY TO MARK 50TH ANNIVERSARY WITH SIR HAROLD HILLIER GARDENS INSPIRED SCULPTURE

PERKS FOR PERKINS PET SERVICES

he world famous Sir Harold Hillier Gardens has provided the beautiful backdrop for a Harrow Way 50th anniversary art project. Complementing the annual Art in the Garden Year exhibition the Year 8 students created 50 plaster cast butterflies which now form part of the largest sculpture exhibit in the country. Taking inspiration from both the gardens and the school’s 50th anniversary,Year 10 Art students also visited the gardens to research ideas for a sculptural piece. The students will be creating designs for the artwork to be displayed in Harrow Way’s grounds as part of the year-long 50th celebrations.

new Andover resident has settled into the town by launching a new business to help dog owners care for their pets. Kelly Perkins set up Perkins Pet Services when she moved to Andover from Hertfordshire late last year. Her new company offers dog walking, boarding and minding, as well as tailored support such as taking the animals to the vet when needed. Winton ward members, Councillor Chris Lynn and Councillor Jan Budzynski, presented Kelly with Test Valley Borough Council’s £750 Business Incentive Grant. They said: “Kelly is incredibly experienced and qualified, and has worked really hard to launch Perkins Pet Services. She has a fantastic home, equipped with everything she needs to run the business effectively and we wish her all the best for the future.” Kelly said: “I’m really pleased that I’ve been able to open my own business. I am licensed with the council to walk and board dogs, I’m DBS checked, insured and canine first-aid trained with a real love of animals. So if you are looking for some help, please get in touch. I also offer pet visits for anyone who needs someone to pop in to their home for half an hour while they are out.Visit www.perkins-pet-services. co.uk for more details.” The Council’s Business Incentive Grants are available to anyone looking to set up their own business in Test Valley. Anyone who successfully applies for the grant will receive a grant of £750 if their business is still going strong six months later. 18

Curriculum Leader for Art Chrissy Collins explains further: “Collectively the Year 10s chose ‘growth’ as their theme as they felt Harrow Way provides a safe place for students to learn and grow in stature, academic and social skills. They commented that students arrive as young Year 7s and leave as fully rounded young adults”. Exploring the work of professional artists showcasing their sculptures in the Art in the Garden exhibition, the Year 10 artists researched the materials, techniques and methods used. Drawing and photographing the pieces, discussing their feelings and expressing opinions regarding the artists’ message all formed the basis of this important research work. An added bonus for the students was the enthusiasm from a student, new to school, who was enthralled with the difference in foliage and landscape from her home in South Africa. Through her eyes they were made even more aware of our natural world and to appreciate its beauty. Chrissy Collins continues: “We were very fortunate to visit the gardens on a beautiful day and the students genuinely enjoyed the amazing variety of plants and trees which will help them develop their ideas into designs for the school’s 50th anniversary sculpture. Our thanks must go to the staff at Hilliers who looked after us so well and donated a plastic gardening grid which will enable our students to create weavings back at school”. For further information on Harrow Way Community School, please call 01264 364533 or visit www.harroway. hants.sch.uk. Visits to the school by appointment are always welcome.

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FEATURE ISSUE 1 14 | DECEM BER

Jane's Kitchen A

TURKEY ROYALE

t this time of year we are bombarded with ideas, recipes and instructions on how to prepare and serve the festive bird. Here is a recipe for ‘left overs’. It can be served over rice or as a savoury bake with a cheese crumble (see October Forum) or as a pie filling.

• fresh parsley if available or a teaspoon of dried tyme • salt and pepper Melt the butter in a medium saucepan and gently fry the onion until transparent then add the pepper and mushrooms, cook for a further few minutes until softened.

Ingredients • 50g butter • 1 small onion peeled and chopped • 1 red pepper cored, de seeded and chopped • 225g button mushrooms left whole or sliced as you like • 30g cornflour • 300ml creamy milk • 300g turkey or chicken stock • 500g cooked turkey diced or shredded. • 2 tablespoons of dry sherry

Sprinkle over the cornflour and cook for 1 minute stirring constantly. Add the milk and stock and stir bringing to the boil, cook for 5 minutes. Add the turkey, sherry and herbs. Season well and serve as above. From Jane’s Kitchen. An eclectic collection of seasonal recipes. Available from Leckford Farm Shop, Leckford and Chilbolton Village Stores Price £6.99

R ETA IL I SSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MB E R

Market Square AR

ARKET SQ U

ET S QUARE

E · MARKE

ARE · M A

·M

SQU

UNIQUE - BESPOKE - ECLECTIC - LOCAL

JoJo Inspired

Broughton Crafts

The Kave

Our amazing collection of fur jackets and more are ready. JoJo Inspired - The Affordable Brand Tel: 07973 688251 | jojoinspired.com

Fico d'India Olive Oil Soap Large Box Broughton Crafts, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HB

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

Home interiors,lifestyle & paint.Open Mon - Sat:9.30am - 5pm 2 Beau Monde Cottages,High Street,Stockbridge,SO20 6HF Tel: 01264 810717 | www.thekave.co.uk

Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

Broughton Crafts

Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

Crate of clean, efficient burning logs from £150 + VAT High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath

A range of scented candles from St Eval Candle Company Broughton Crafts, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HB

Double dustbin store - £165 + VAT. High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath

Tel: 01329 835100 | www.equestrianfencing.com

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

Tel: 01329 835100 | www.equestrianfencing.com

The Hub

Mokaya Cocoa

The Kave

Giving the gift of beautiful hair in the Test Valley. Male and female hairdressers in Stockbridge. Tel: 01264 810139 | thehubstockbridge.co.uk

For all your Christmas chocolate gifts. High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HF Tel: 01264 811440 | Mokaya Cocoa Stockbridge

Home interiors,lifestyle & paint.Open Mon - Sat:9.30am - 5pm 2 Beau Monde Cottages,High Street,Stockbridge,SO20 6HF Tel: 01264 810717 | www.thekave.co.uk

R ETA IL I SSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MB E R

www.mayflyvintage.co.uk

R ETA IL I SSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MB E R

Retail

BEAUTIFUL BRIDAL WEAR COMES TO STOCKBRIDGE

Carina Rose Bridal was borne out of that wonderful experience, my daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special day. I wanted the excitement to continue by helping other brides choose the dress of their dreams for their special day. So, I set about searching for the right location and then the premises to put down my roots and begin to realise my dream. It has been 2 years in the making, resulting in finding my pretty shop which is part of a Grade 2 listed converted pub in Stockbridge, a beautiful market town. Carina Rose Bridal will be opening on Friday 1st December Please contact Carina on 01264 810011 www.carinarosebridal.co.uk 2 The Vine, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HF

elcome to Carina Rose Bridal, a beautiful and relaxing place to browse for your special gown at your leisure. Situated in rural Stockbridge, you will feel time slowing down as you slip into the pace of the Hampshire countryside. Understanding that wedding dress shopping can sometimes be an intimidating experience, we will ensure your visit to us is relaxed and enjoyable as you browse through our selection of carefully chosen bridal wear with total exclusivity of our pretty boutique. We offer a selection of sophisticated, elegant full length bridal gowns with flowing trains, tea length dresses and pretty quirky knee length dresses, designer shoes and accessories.We want you to feel looked after from the moment you contact us until your dress is handed to you, ensuring you feel and look stunning on your special day.

About Carina

After my daughter's engagement in 2015 the very next exciting thought was "Her Wedding Dress". I couldn't wait for her to start looking. What a pleasure it was to go into the "world of weddings" with her. I loved the excitement of visiting different bridal shops. When she put on the dress we both just knew, it was the one. We had so much fun and laughs along the way that a seed was sown. 24

ADVERTISING OFFER ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE FOR AS LITTLE AS ÂŁ30 PER MONTH (MINIMUM 12 MONTH BOOKING FOR PRICE SHOWN)

For more information

01962 735137 stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

NATIVITY THE CHRISTMAS STORY IN MUSIC

FINE ART AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS

FINE ART, ANTIQUES, INTERIORS & COLLECTABLES AUCTION Tuesday 12th & Wednesday 13th December

CU LT U R E I SSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MB E R

THE

Commencing 10am

Saturday 9th December, 7.30pm St Peter and Holy Cross Church Wherwell Tickets Â£10: on the door or at www.wherwellsingers.org

Retiring collection in aid of

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

The Wykeham Gallery Christmas Show

24th November - 24th December Tel: 01264 810364 THE WYKEHAM GALLERY

www.wykehamgallery.co.uk HIGH STREET

STOCKBRIDGE

SO20 6HE

NEW & UPCYCLED PIANOS Vine Pianos provides new pianos with Blüthner, Yamaha and Carod. We are open Monday to Saturday so pop in, or email, to book a personal appointment. Meet the Vine Piano experts, play, discuss and plan for your piano. Vine Pianos also supply upcycled pianos for clients. Vine Pianos is proud that all of our piano sales will suitably reflect individual musical progression and taste.

PIANO HIRE Make your event an experience to remember. We offer the right baby grand or upright piano to fit every occasion. Do you need to add some elegance to your event or find the perfect piano for a performance?

We can provide baby grand and upright pianos for all sorts of events: Concerts • Weddings • Studio Recordings • Film Sets • Plays and Theatre productions A piano can create a particular ambience or simply add a lot of fun to your event! So why not hire a baby grand or an upright piano for your production or special occasion. We will take the stress out organising delivery, collection and a tuning on arrival; it’s a delivery, a date at a great rate!

Opening Hours

Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm

@VinePianos The Vine Piano Services

PIANO SERVICES, TUNING, RESTORATION AND LESSONS

PIANO TUNING & RESTORATION Vine Pianos offer a piano tuning service to clients throughout the UK. Deborah is an established piano tuner and technician and can provide piano tuning services to all piano types. Vine Pianos recommends that all pianos are tuned at least every 6 months, however depending on how often you use your piano, it may vary. Vine Pianos would suggest a more frequent tuning programme for pianos used by teachers, schools, churches and theatres; we are pleased to advise you.

PIANO LESSONS Vine Pianos has tuition from ‘Beginners to Advanced’. We want our students to reach their potential, using a great piano, and most of all to have fun! Claire Williams, the piano tutor at Vine Pianos, studied at both The Royal Academy of Music and The Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Claire is in much demand as a performer, most recently in venues including Cadogan Hall; St. John’s Smith Square; deSingel Antwerp and La Madeleine in Paris.

Tel: 07949 403888 www.vinepianos.co.uk

hello@vinepianos.co.uk

VINE PIANOS THE VINE HIGH STREET STOCKBRIDGE SO20 6HF

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MB E R

Church Services BOSSINGTON O St. James Sunday 3 December 09.30 Holy Communion Christmas Day 09.30 Christmas Day Holy Communion

BROUGHTON O St. Mary's Sunday 3 December 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 10 December 09.30 Holy Communion Sunday 17 December 08.00 Holy Communion 18.00 Carol Service with Children's Tableau and Broughton Choirs Christmas Eve 17.00 Crib Service for all ages 23.30 Midnight Service Holy Communion CW Christmas Day 10.00 Christmas Day Family Communion New Years Eve 09.30 Holy Communion for the Benefice

CHILBOLTON O St. Mary the Less Sunday 3 December 17.30 Candlelight Service at Wherwell Sunday 10 December 10.00 Morning Prayer Sunday 17 December 16.00 Carol Service Christmas Eve 16.00 Crib Service 23.15 Midnight Service Christmas Day 10.00 Family Service

CRAWLEY O St. Mary's Sunday 3 December 10.00 Family Communion Sunday 10 December 10.00 Morning Worship

Sunday 17 December 18.00 Carol Service Christmas Eve 16.30 Posada Christmas Day 08.00 Holy Communion 10.00 Family Service & Nativity Play by Sunday School

HOUGHTON O All Saint's Church Sunday 10 December 09.30 Holy Communion

KING'S SOMBORNE O Methodist Church Sunday 3 December 10.00 Parish Communion Sunday 10 December 08.00 Holy Communion 10.00 Family/Crib Figure Service Sunday 17 December 10.00 Parish Communion 18.00 Carol Service Christmas Eve 08.00 Holy Communion 16.00 Christingle 23.30 Midnight Communion Christmas Day 10.00 Family Service with Communion 11.00 Christmas Service at St Mary's, Ashley New Years Eve 10.00 Parish Communion O St. Peter & St. Paul Sunday 3 December 10.00 Parish Communion Sunday 10 December 08.00 Holy Communion 10.00 Family/Crib Figure Service Sunday 17 December 10.00 Parish Communion 18.00 Carol Service Christmas Eve 08.00 Holy Communion 16.00 Christingle 23.30 Midnight Communion

Christmas Day 10.00 Family Service with Commnuion 11.00 Christmas Service at St Mary’s, Ashley Sunday 31 December 10.00 Parish Communion

LECKFORD O St. Nicholas Sunday 3 December 08.00 Said Holy Communion Sunday 17 December 18.00 Evensong

LITTLETON O St. Catherines Sunday 3 December 10.00 Posada Sunday 10 December 10.00 Family Communion Sunday 17 December 10.00 Morning Worship 18.00 Carol Service Christmas Eve 16.00 Crib Service Christmas Day 10.00 Family Communion

LONGSTOCK O St. Mary Sunday 3 December 09.30 Café Church – Breakfast followed by informal service Sunday 10 December 10.00 All Age Remembrance Service 10.50 Act of Remembrance at Longstock War Memorial Sunday 17 December 09.30 Morning Worship Christmas Eve 09.15 Parish Communion

MOTTISFONT O St. Andrew's Sunday 3 December 10.00 Holy Communion with Bishop John Dennis. Afterwards procession to Mottisfont Abbey Sunday 10 December 11.00 Messy Church Club 18.00 Evensong Sunday 17 December 11.00 Carol Service

SPARSHOLT O St. Stephen's Sunday 3 December 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 10 December 18.00 Carol Service Sunday 17 December 10.00 Matins Christmas Eve 16.00 Crib Service 23.30 Midnight Service Christmas Day 10.00 Family Service New Years Eve 10.00 5th Sunday Benefice Family Communion

STOCKBRIDGE O Old St. Peter Sunday 3 December 08.00 Said Holy Communion O St. Peter Sunday 3 December 10.45 Mattins Sunday 10 December 09.45 Remembrance Service Sunday 17 December 10.45 All Age Worship Christmas Eve 10.45 Parish Communion

WHERWELL O St. Peter & Holy Cross Sunday 3 December 17.30 Candlelight Service Sunday 10 December 18.00 Benefice Evensong at Watermill Cottage, Wherwell, SP11 7JS Sunday 17 December 10.00 Family Service Christmas Eve 08.00 Holy Communion 14.30 Crib Service 23.15 Midnight Service with Chilbolton Christmas Day 10.00 Family Service

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COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MB E R

Community TEST VALLEY BUSINESS AWARDS 2017: A YEAR IN REVIEW

year’s 6 categories, including Apprentice Employer of the Year, a new award sponsored by Andover College. • April: Multi-category entry is encouraged, and entries exceed 100. • May: Entries close, seeing a record-breaking 172 entries received from Test Valley businesses across 6 categories; with the most popular category declared as Small Business of the Year, sponsored by Wilkins Kennedy, seeing almost 50 flood in online. • June: The judging period begins, and the Awards’ 6 Gold Sponsors – including the University of Southampton Science Park – begin analysing the entries received; talking to entering businesses, and visiting businesses from across the Test Valley. • July: The Awards’ 18 finalists – 3 shortlisted businesses in each of the 6 categories - are announced and tickets to the Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony are released for sale online. • August: Tickets to the widely anticipated Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony sell out as 170 businesses book to attend.

s the end of another successful year draws closer, we review the highlights of TVBAwards2017. Culminating in an impressive and well attended Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony at the Museum of Army Flying in September, the Test Valley Business Awards 2017 was the most successful year ever known in the Awards 13-year history.

So, what made 2017 such a success for the Test Valley Business Awards?

• January: The Steering Committee announces the launch of the Test Valley Business Awards 2017, held at The White Horse, Romsey, in March – tickets are made available online. • February: The launch event becomes fully booked within 3 weeks, seeing over 100 business representatives prepare to attend. • March: Entries to the Test Valley Business Awards 2017 officially opening; offering local business the opportunity to enter any of the

GREEN LIGHT FOR NEW DRIVING ACADEMY

• September: The long-awaited Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony finally arrives! Seeing 170 business representatives enjoy a luxury 3 course meal courtesy of McCrimmon & Reid, Rev. Richard Coles join us as Guest Speaker, and 6 of our 18 shortlisted businesses announced as this year’s winners! • October – November: The Worshipful, the Mayor of Test Valley, Cllr. Carl Borg-Neal visits each of this year’s winners; learning more about their respective businesses, and celebrating their achievements. Yes, 2017 has been a wonderful year for the Test Valley Business Awards; showcasing the strengths and determinations of small, new, and proudly local businesses in the area. Now in its 13th year, the Test Valley Business Awards – run by a steering group of volunteers – has become a well-established platform to promote businesses excellence and especially to shine a light on the many new and small innovative businesses operating out of sight. It is a great way to enable smaller enterprises to gain the recognition and exposure to grow. Information about the night; including winners, and photos of the event, can be found on the Test Valley Business Awards website, at: www.tvbawards.org.uk

Grant. She said: “ Emily already has a full diary – and a waiting list! With a successful pass rate, she prides herself on being able to teach any age or disposition, and I am sure her business will go from strength to strength.” Emily said: “On behalf of Green Light Driving Academy in Andover, I would like to thank TVBC for their generosity with their funding and offering me a business grant.

new Andover company has got the green light from Test Valley Borough Council through help from a Business Incentive Grant. Emily Green, a fully qualified driving instructor with the DVLA, has set up Green Light Driving

Academy.

Harroway Ward member, Councillor Karen Hamilton has presented Emily with Test Valley Borough Council’s £750 Business Incentive 30

“Since starting my own driving school business, I have continually strived to improve my knowledge and skills within my industry and have recently taken on my first driving instructor to work with me. The funding from TVBC will help me work towards further expansion and growth to my business in my local area. Thank you TVBC.” Visit www.greenlightdrivingacademy.co.uk for more details. The Council’s Business Incentive Grants are available to anyone looking to set up their own business in Test Valley. Anyone who successfully applies for the grant will receive a grant of £750 if their business is still going strong six months later.

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COMMU N IT Y HOME ISSU E 1 1 4 | D E CE MBE R

Community ANOTHER REASON TO STAY LONGER IN ANDOVER THIS CHRISTMAS

ADDITIONAL BUSINESS JOINS ANDOVER’S COMMUNITY TOILET SCHEME

afe Bridge, on Bridge Street, Andover is the latest business to join Andover’s Community Toilet Scheme. The Scheme, which began in January, allows members of the public to use facilities in participating businesses without an obligation to make a purchase. As a result, toilets are now available in more locations, for longer hours and without the problems associated with the former George Yard toilets. Gail Kinross, manager of Café Bridge said this week: “ We are part of the Valley Church and as such, provide many services to the community including a family-friendly coffee shop. We are open 5 days a week, Monday to Friday from 0930 to 2.30 pm. Café Bridge will follow Costa, Caffè Nero and The Redbridge who have all displayed a sticker in their windows to show that they are part of the scheme. With Costa open from 7am and The Redbridge open until 11pm, the hours of operation have increased substantially from the 8am to 6pm that the Council’s public toilets were open. The Council have put signs up in the George Yard and Borden Gates car parks, which direct people to the nearby toilet facilities.

est Valley Borough Council is once again offering shoppers the chance to spend more time stocking up on Christmas gifts by treating them to an hour’s free parking this December.

Any other businesses in Andover town centre who are interested in participating in the scheme should contact estates@testvalley.gov.uk.

Visitors will be able to make use of the offer on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4 December to 20 December and will need to purchase a minimum of one hour’s parking in any Test Valley Borough Council car park to qualify. They then need to display the Christmas voucher on their dashboard alongside a valid pay and display ticket to get another hour free. The voucher is valid with cash or Ringo payment. The Council’s car parks continue to be free to use after 4pm, so during the offer period visitors will be able to stay in town from 2pm until late for just £1! Shoppers can collect vouchers from the Council’s Beech Hurst office, The Lights theatre or participating retailers. Alternatively, vouchers can be downloaded from the Council’s website, www.testvalley.gov.uk or cut out from the autumn issue of Test Valley News sent to all households at the end of October. Retailers can contact Town Centre Manager, Gemma Atherton, to collect vouchers to hand out to their customers. Deputy Leader of the Council, Councillor Nick Adams-King said: “The car park voucher scheme is always popular with our residents. Our towns have a lot of fantastic independent shops as well as larger retailers, and the scheme helps to boost the local economy by encouraging shoppers to stay for longer. Our car parks continue to be free on Sundays and bank holidays throughout the year, which is another great incentive to visit and shop in our towns.”

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FEATU R E ISSUE 114 | DECEMBER

Stockbridge Christmas Friday 1 December st

LIGHTS SWITCH ON BY PIERS MORGAN AND ALEX LEWIS

tockbridge, a really vibrant community in the heart of the Test Valley, will again be hosting their annual pre-Christmas evening to mark the Advent season with many festivities and entertainment along a twinkling High Street including Suffolk punches pulling Santa on his sleigh, a magical Christingle service in aid of the Children Society at St. Peters for everyone and anyone who wishes to attend. Straight after the service, approx. 6pm, Piers Morgan from ITV’s Good Morning Britain and Alex Lewis will turn on the Stockbridge Christmas lights in front of St Peters Church. Piers Morgan is a highly successful news journalist, editor, broadcaster and TV presenter. He was appointed editor of the News of the World at just 28 years old. He then ran the Daily Mirror for nearly a decade. After his newspaper career came to an abrupt halt, Piers reinvented himself as a broadcaster and presenter on both sides of the Atlantic appearing regularly in both Britain and America’s Got Talent as well as his highly successful series of Life Stories. In 2010 he replaced Larry King on CNN with Piers Morgan Live, which he hosted for 4 years. He currently co-hosts Good Morning Britain on ITV. He writes newspaper columns for The Mail on Sunday and DailyMail.com and has published 8 books. Alex Lewis was 34 when he thought he had ‘man flu’, but collapsed and was rushed to hospital. He was given just hours to live and a 3% chance of survival. In fact, he had contracted Strep A followed by Septicaemia which

led to him having all four limbs amputated and facial reconstruction. 99% of human beings would not have endured this rampant infection. As well as losing his limbs, Lewis also lost his lips and nose. Instead of spiraling into despair and retreating into a state of self pity, Alex took a truly inspirational approach to what happened to him. The story of his positivity and adjustment to a new life is truly remarkable and was the subject of a recent Channel 4 documentary “The Extraordinary case of Alex Lewis”. Amazingly, Alex still describes the past few years as the best he's ever had. Alex has subsequently completed a Kayak expedition in Greenland, set up his own interior design company ‘Space Councilor”, entered a hand cycle race from North to South Island in New Zealand and is planning an Ethiopian Expedition. To support this event many of the shops will be staying open late, the Town Hall will be filled with lots of varied stalls and of course Santa’s Grotto, the famous award-winning Robinson’s bangers will be on sale “under the arch’’, the new Italian Deli Prego will be open serving up a little bit of Italian festive food,Thyme and Tides,Woodfire and all the pubs will be open, joining in the festive spirit.There will be fire eaters and jugglers along the high street throughout the evening. There is also a quiz based on the 12 days of Christmas, entrance sheets available on our website, in the community news and at the Town Hall by Santa’s Grotto, prizes for all entrants.Test Valley Brass and Farleigh School Choir will be performing live music and carol singing - all to celebrate the inclusive meaning of Christmas.This is an event that pulls many facets of the local community together – The Church,The Primary School,Test Valley School, Stockbridge Cinema,Town Hall,Traders and Residents. There will be plenty of extra free parking available, just follow the signs. Come to Stockbridge and pick up that special Christmas gift and have fabulous fun, early evening out for all the family. For more information visit our website www.stockbridgechristmas.com and our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Stockbridge-Christmas-715644108471462/

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