Test Valley 126 by Mark Tubb

TEST VALLEY

FORUM

FEATURES Sandra Pagan - Hampshire Mum Claire Thurlow - No Such Thing as a Seagull Our Planet - Palm Oil

REACHING 18,750 READERS * TEST VALLEY TOWNS & VILLAGES ISSUE 126 • DECEMBER

NEWS & EVENTS Church Christmas Services Winchester Auto Barn and Drivers Club Stockbridge Late Night Christmas Shopping

STYLE ˙ INTERIORS ˙ HEALTH & BEAUTY ˙ INTERVIEWS ˙ FOOD & DRINK ˙ ENTERTAINMENT ˙ EVENTS

MYDDELTON & MAJOR IN THE TEST VALLEY

Recently let shops, now trading in Stockbridge High Street

In a year when the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; word has dented confidence in many sectors of the market, The Test Valley property market has proved resilient. In Stockbridge, at the very heart, every retail outlet is now occupied which is defying all other retail trends. Support the shops by attending the Small Business Day on Saturday 1st December and Late Night Shopping on 7th December. Residentially the Test Valley remains a highly sought after part of Hamphshire and properties have continued to sell with no indication of diminishing values.

SO 20 LD

Building Plot

SO 20 LD

Period Cottage

STOCKBRIDGE

NETHER WALLOP

Please contact David Smith to discuss either your residential or commercial property requirements

www.myddeltonmajor.co.uk

Tel: 01264 316000

The Team Editor Mark Tubb editor@forumpublications.co.uk Director of Advertising Steve Walker stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk Advertising Manager Mandy Head mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk Director of Marketing Rob Harrison rob@forummedianddesign.co.uk

Welcome The festive period is now well and truly upon us. It will be lovely to see the streets of The Test Valley adorned with Christmas lights once again. We have introduced a new feature which we will be running monthly called 'Our Planet'. We hope that the articles published on this page will encourage our readers to do their bit

to ensure a future for our children. You may agree with the article/s or you may not, please let us know we are only too happy to publish your constructive feedback. The Forum team would take this opportunity to wish you a Happy Christmas Mark Tubb (Editor)

Contents

Design Manager James Curtis Advertising & Creative Design james@forumpublications.co.uk Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk

Contributors Copy Writers Gill Grant, Claire Thurlow, Iris Crowfoot, Jane Brown

Contact Details

06 Motoring Local services to keep your vehicle running smoothly

24 Our Planet Palm Oil - Deforestation for everyday products

Forum Publications Ltd 11 Broad Street, Alresford Hampshire, SO24 9AR Tel: 01962 735137

07 Wellbeing Looking after your health and yourself!

25 Culture The diverse theatre, music, arts and crafts, of Hampshire

forumpub editor@forumpublications.co.uk www.forumpublications.co.uk

10 Professional From photographers to solicitors - every professional service you need 14 Lucia Foster-Found All I want for Christmas... is Christmas 16 Garden Make your garden dream come true. Or visit local beautiful country gardens 18 Retail/Market Square Our regular retail feature, Unique, Bespoke, Eclectic and Local shopping

29 Home Trades, services, designers. All you need for your home 30 Hampshire Mum Not falling for it 32 Church Services Your local church services in November 36 Claire Thurlow No such thing as a Seagull

JANUARY COPY DEADLINE DECEMBER 10th

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 magazine content does not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or recommendations of its creators and any reliance upon its content is taken at the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sole risk. Adverts designed by Forum Publications remain the magazine's legal ownership. ÂŠ Forum Publications Ltd, 2018 * Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household

WHAT'S ON? John Robinson in Stockbridge or online via our website www.stockbridgecinema.org.uk

Thursday 6

Josie Eastwood Fine Art: One Day Interiors Pop Up

DECEMBER Saturday 1

Winchester Auto Barn Breakfast Club We are having another Breakfast Club gathering from 9am-12pm at Winchester Auto Barn (formerly Hill Farm Garage), Sutton Scotney,Winchester, SO21 3NS. Meet the team and other motoring enthusiasts and find out more about our exciting plans for the future. Our vintage catering van will be serving delicious refreshments throughout the morning. www.winchesterautobarn.com.Winchester Auto Barn, Sutton Scotney,Winchester, SO21 3NS

Saturday 1

Small Business Saturday Shop at an independent retailer in Andover Town Centre on the 1st December for your chance to win £100! Visit the Andover Town Centre Partnership Facebook page for further details @Andovertcp.

Tuesday 4

Stockbridge Amateur Dramatic Society: Curtain Calls Come along and eat mince pies, drink mulled wine and be entertained by readings and performances from plays, poems and novels based around the theme of ‘That time of year again…’ on Tuesday 4th December at 7.30 pm Stockbridge Town Hall. Or, even better we’d love you to take part, so if you fancy having a go, please email stockbridgeamdrams@gmail. com or call Mark Frank on 0773 887 4040 No experience necessary! You don’t have to be a member of SADS, but we’d love it if you’d join! We’re always looking for new blood to act, direct, produce, to be part of the technical team on sound, lighting, set design and build, stage managing, costume and props. Equally, it’d be great for you to just come along and support our events!

Wednesday 5

Stockbridge Community Cinema: Mama Mia! Here We Go Again (PG) Get ready to sing and dance, laugh and love all over again. Five years after the events of Mamma Mia! (2008) you are invited to return to the magical Greek island of Kalokairi in an all-new original musical based on the songs of ABBA. Sophie prepares for the grand reopening of the Hotel Bella Donna as she learns more about her mother's past. Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall SO20 6HE at 4.30pm and 7.30pm. Doors open 30 minutes before the start time.Tickets £5.00 from Garden Inn and

Rugs sourced by Francesca Gentilli, who has a huge following and a great eye, and hand painted lamp shades by Sarah Blomfield. This will be held in The Barn, Upper Manor Farm, Stockbridge, SO20 6DR on Thursday December 6th from 10am until 5pm.

Delicious home baking, (pre order cakes and puddings any Thursday 9.30 -11.30 at regular market) Unique handmade Christmas gifts, decorations, new/nearly new gift stall, books, eggs, local produce. Children's Christmas craft table.Tea/ coffee served all day, light lunches from 11.30 - 1.30pm. Guess the weight of the Christmas Hamper, full of locally produced goodies. Proceeds donated to local charity.

Friday 14 - Sunday 16

Friday 7

Andover Arts Winter/ Christmas Exhibition

Starring Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, Lily James, Julie Walters, Meryl Street And Cher. Ten years on, Donna’s pregnant daughter, Sophie, dreams of renovating a taverna on the romantic island where she grew up and reuniting with her mother’s old friends and boy friends. At Chilbolton Village Hall. Doors Open at 6.45; Film show commences at 7.30 pm.Tickets £5.00 in advance from Beryl Lawrence on 01264 860618. E-mail: dlaw@ davidlawrenceassociates.co.uk or £6.00 on the door (if available).Tea/Coffee and biscuits included in price.Wine, Beer and Choc Ices on sale.

At Stockbridge Town Hall. From 11am - 5pm Friday 14th December, 10am - 5pm Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th December. Preview 6 - 8 on Friday 14th December - please drop in for some light refreshments and meet the artists This is a great opportunity to see an exhibition of original art work (including some 3D) produced by artists who are part of the Andover Art Society. You can check out the browsers for prints and original works. All work is for sale alongside a good selection of cards. So come along and see the exhibition and maybe you will spot that special Christmas present you were looking for.We look forward to welcoming you to our exhibition.

Film Showing: 'Mamma Mia 2' (PG)

Saturday 8

Salsa Y Solo Christmas Dance Party Night 7.30pm - 11pm at Winchester Discovery Centre. £10 in advance/£12 on the night Come and join Silvia & Max to celebrate this most special time of year at a Dance Party Night filled with the Spirit of Christmas and all the Dancing Fun you could wish for! Everyone is welcome and no previous dancing experience required -we’ll get everyone dancing! www.salsaysol.co.uk

Saturday 8 & Sunday 9

Artful Christmas Weekend Contemporary art & crafts for Christmas. 10am - 4pm at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Jermyns Lane, Ampfield, Romsey, SO51 0QA. Free entry. Meet the makers, find unique hand crafted gifts, childrens Christmas activities. See www.artfulevents.co.uk for more details.

Saturday 8 & Sunday 9

Stockbridge Antiques Fair The Fair is held in Stockbridge Town Hall in the centre of the High Street. We offer a wide range of Decorative, interesting and unusual items including good quality Furniture, Silver, Jewellery, Militaria, Motor memorabilia,Textiles and Books. We will also buy. Free Admission & Free Parking. Open: 9.30am - 5.00pm. Contacts: Carol - 01264 335769 / 07870 432805 Steve - 01722 712267 / 07915 663251

Saturday 15

Stockbridge Community Market Christmas Special 10am - 4pm at Stockbridge Town Hall.

Sunday 16

Christmas Concert with Carols with the Lockerley Silver Band To raise funds for the Lockerley Silver Band and Jubilee Field Playground for Lockerley & East Dean.Venue: St John's Church, Romsey Road, Lockerley, Romsey, SO51 0JF Time: 3.30pm, doors open at 3pm. Price: Adults £5, children FREE – includes mulled wine / soft drink and mince pie.Tickets in advance from Lockerley Green Stores, Lockerley Green, Lockerley, SO51 0JN. Limited number of tickets available on the door. For more information or help in purchasing your tickets please contact: Email: jubileefieldplayground@ gmail.com Phone: Kate - 01794 341 276 To make a donation to the playground please visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ jubileefieldplayground. Follow our progress on www.facebook.com/JubileeFieldPlayground For more information on Lockerley Silver Band visit: www.lockerleysilverband.co.uk

Friday 21

Joy to the World - Christmas with the Romsey Singers 7.30 pm at Romsey Abbey. Conductor: Philip Lawson. Join us for our annual, popular Christmas concert to get you in the Christmas spirit! Together with music by Howells and Poulenc, we shall sing carols for both choir and audience. Quinta Brass and Adrian Taylor at the organ, will also join us for the evening. Tickets in advance: £16, £14 (reserved) £12 (unreserved) from:Tourist Information Centre, 13 Church Street, Romsey.Tel: 01794 512987 and online at Ticketsource On the door (if available): £18, £16 (reserved) £14 (unreserved).

2017 2018

MOTORING

COMMUNITY Our MOT rate is £48.50 but any pre 1980 car is reduced to £28.50. We have done this as the law now states that cars built 40 years ago don’t need an MOT but we think it’s sensible if they do so we have reduced the rate to encourage people to get an MOT. We are keen to get established and believe our service rates are very competitive so please give us a chance and call us for an estimate.

WINCHESTER AUTOBARN AND DRIVERS CLUB

1980’s. Most importantly we will endeavour to carry high quality stock of affordable classics but with a genuine no issues history.

The Winchester Auto Barn and Drivers’ Club is a new company that has been formed specifically to create a local hub and destination for all motorists who need a service, repairs or just an MOT, and also for classic car owners and enthusiasts. We want to form a community for people to basically come and show off their pride and joy, meet kindred spirits, source their next purchase/ parts or just ‘hang’ and talk car.

All of the hugely experienced staff (from Hill Farm Garage, the previous business on the site) have been kept on and are continuing to service, repair and MOT modern vehicles such as Mercedes Benz, Range Rover, Audi, BMW etc... We do specialise particularly in Mercedes Benz and we are an Approved Independent Mercedes Benz Service Agent utilising their latest service software. At the Winchester Auto Barn we aim to provide good value without compromising the quality that we want to deliver – a good reputation is very important to us.

On the sales side the idea is to specialise in vehicles from the 1960’s through to the

COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER TO PREPARE FOR ANY POTENTIAL EMERGENCY

Hampshire Constabulary and Hampshire Fire and Rescue to discuss preparations for major incidents.

The garage and site is very much a work in progress and we are hoping to get approval on expanding the showroom and creating a comfortable retro waiting area as well as car storage. We will decorate the building with genuine period automobilia such as posters, luggage, signs etc... This will all be for sale. We also plan to have regular breakfast club meetings at the garage, the next one is Saturday 1st December 9am – 12pm. There is a catering van providing coffees, teas, pastries and butties. There is ample parking so please feel to free drop in and see what we’re up to. www.winchesterautobarn.com Tel: 01962 677779 Winchester Auto Barn, Sutton Scotney, Winchester, SO21 3NS

WINCHESTER CHRISTMAS MARKET

Earlier this November, in King’s Somborne, the Resilience Forum simulated an exercise in which a local water supply was contaminated. A number of parishes that already have local resilience plans in place were able to test their effectiveness on the day. Other parishes and communities were encouraged to develop plans of their own. Councillor Lashbrook, TVBCs Resilience Champion and chair of the Forum said: “The Forum is a great place for communities to learn from one another and it goes from strength to strength. We have our origins from the floods in 2014 and we are now in our fourth year of activity. As we learnt in 2014 the communities that were best prepared to deal with the floods were those who had already created resilience plans of some nature.

A number of community stakeholders came together in November to ensure that the communities of Test Valley are prepared in the case of an emergency. The Test Valley Resilience Forum, held twice a year, sees a number of representatives from town and parish councils and local resilience forums come together with representatives of Test Valley Borough Council, Hampshire County Council, the Environment Agency,

“Importantly this forum has been a proper partnership between communities and statutory agencies and I think we have something quite unique here. I am very proud to say that as a result, Test Valley now has more community-based resilience plans in place than other parts of the county. We are much, much stronger together.” www.testvalley.gov.uk

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market From 12th December 2018. Come and support our chalet-stall for Christmas shopping and festivities down at Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market 2018. We have lots of fun and unique cat related goodies including Christmas cards and calendars, and not forgetting the jams! "Founded in 2006, Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is recognised as one of the best in Europe due to its unique location, high quality exhibitors and bustling atmosphere. Christmas gifts, decorations and festive foods can be found in abundance." http://www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/ events/christmas-market/''

WELLBEING

MOTORING

WELLBEING

ENHAM TRUST’S TRAINING KITCHEN RECEIVES COMMUNITY GRANT

RELAXATION FOR BUSY PEOPLE “Christmas has been cancelled this year.” My father made this same joke every year, when we children were beginning to get excited. A few decades ago, our Christmas was a oneday, one-present-each event. It was a brief, magical moment in a mostly monotonous calendar of working days and plodding Sundays. Even so, my father was harassed by the disruption and what must have been a quite modest extra cost. Since then, Christmas, far from being cancelled, has swelled like an insatiable beast. It feeds on people’s time, energy and money for weeks or even months on both sides of the day itself. For many people, the harassment snuffs out the magic. A host of mounting pressures – to get more done, and done in time; to spend more than you really want or can afford; to eat and drink more than is healthy or comfortable; the heightened emotional cost of loneliness, or else of strained relationships – are all the more stressful when the season is supposed to remind us of peace and joy. Not that anyone talks much these days of goodwill to all mankind. ‘Goodwill’ is out of date and ‘mankind’ is sexist.You are more likely to hear people redefining Christmas as “all about family time and loved ones,” and, after all the extra stress and overwork, looking forward to some bingeing (box sets, luxuries) and a few days of mindless torpor. The difference between torpor and real relaxation is that torpor can leave you feeling dissatisfied and irritable rather than rested. A habit of relaxing during your busiest times, instead of after, restores your depleted energy as you go. Torpor is a form of collapse, an attempt to switch off living for a while because it has become too overwhelming. Relaxation is the natural counter to anxiety and activity. It is the easing-up between one effort and the next that stops you getting overwhelmed in the first place, so that you do not pile up a debt of fatigue and emotional

burnout to add to the other burdens you will carry into the New Year. Christmas coincides with the transition we make at the end of each year from one stage of our lives to the next. I am reminded of a primary school I know of, where for the last five minutes of every class the children sit and think about what they have accomplished in the lesson just ended, and consider the new activity they are about to begin. Instead of classes that end with a jangling bell and an eruption of noise and rush, this small pause allows one period to lead calmly and purposefully on to the next. The same principle works whenever there is much to do and little time. Pockets of calm between your activities give you breathing space and help you keep things in perspective. Calm first: then carry on. This is practical psychology, and not only because stress impairs us. I am still amazed how, when (against my impatient grain) I pause and relax for five minutes – before leaving the house, for example, or before sleeping, or on waking – that is when my mind clears, and allows something important I had forgotten, or a solution to a problem, or renewed calm to float into my awareness. Don’t tell yourself that you will relax later, when you have time. Even one minute, now, to pause and relax will put you back in control, stop your mind running on autopilot, and bring your life back into focus. Calm first. Then carry on. If this sounds easier said than done, I can send you a simple “Relaxation for Busy People” audio that takes less than five minutes to listen to and is an easy routine to remember. No charge, no commitment. Email me at anna@ annapowell.com with ‘’Yes please” in the subject line, and I will send you the recording by reply. Like all other Christmases past and future, this Christmas will come and go.You can navigate the pressures more freely when you are relaxed and (forgive the pun) more present. Anna Powell www.annapowell.com

A project that helps provide independent living skills to disabled people has been given a £1,000 boost. Andover’s Enham Trust has been awarded the funds through a Test Valley Borough Council Councillor Community Grant. The money will enable the continuation of the Training Kitchen project, launched in August 2017. The Training kitchen is a fully accessible kitchen, which focuses on providing life skills to disabled people. The main aims are to learn basic cooking skills to increase independence, explore new recipes and increase knowledge about healthy eating. It also provides an essential space for socialisation and a chance for individuals to explore their creativity in a safe and supportive environment. Councillor North said: “The work that The Enham Trust do is truly inspiring to all and, most importantly, is life changing for those who are supported by the trust. I am proud that Test Valley Borough Council has sponsored this brilliant project, which will help people in Andover build confidence and gain independence through learning.” Rayna McDonald, Director of Care at Enham Trust, said: “The Training Kitchen provides a place where skills that are learnt are done so in a fun and practical way. This grant will enable disabled people to work towards their goal of greater independence. Thank you to the Council for contributing to the overall success of the Training Kitchen.” Enham Trust currently supports thousands of disabled people across the country each year in the key areas of their lives by providing housing, care, and various employment & skills opportunities to ensure each customer gains independence, choice, and control over every aspect of their lives. To find out more about Enham Trust and the impact we have for disabled people today, please visit www.enhamtrust.org.uk/ training-kitchen

WELLBEING

STOCKBRIDGE OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE

Osteopathy and Cranial Osteopathy Emma Wightman, registered osteopath and antenatal teacher. A gentle, hands on approach for newborns through to adulthood and in pregnancy.

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

WELLBEING PROFESSIONAL

WELLBEING Awards sensitively honour the centenary of the woman’s vote. HUNDREDS FLOCK TO THE GALA DINNER Welcoming almost 200 business representatives from across the Test Valley, the 2018 Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony, held at the Museum of Army Flying, was one of the largest of the Awards’ events to-date. The Mayor helps celebrates this year’s winners: The Worshipful, the Mayor of Test Valley, Cllr Ian Carr, has been travelling across the borough, celebrating with this year’s deserving winners:

2018: LOOKING BACK AT A RECORD-BREAKING YEAR FOR THE TEST VALLEY BUSINESS AWARDS As 2018 draws to an end, and the beginning of a new year looms, now is the ideal time to look back on everything that made this year a truly exceptional period in the Test Valley Business Awards’ history. A SELL-OUT LAUNCH Officially launching in the spring, the Test Valley Business Awards’ first event of the year – held at the Greyhound on the Test in Stockbridge – saw over 100 business representatives come together to network, Test Valley enjoy light refreshments, and learn more about the Awards’ programme for the year.

Yoga

A SELECTION OF EXTRAORDINARY ENTRY PRIZES Including a day’s complimentary Trout

Studio Studio StudioStudio

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Fishing at the Leckford Estate, and afternoon tea for 2 at Rosebourne, this year’s entry prizes gave 6 lucky entrants picked entirely at random the opportunity to experience some of the best products and services Test Valley has to offer. A RECORD NUMBER OF ENTRIES 2018 saw the Test Valley Business Awards welcome now less than 224 entries across 6 unique awards categories; almost 50 more than last year, and the highest number of entries ever received in the Awards’ 14 year history.

Test Valley Forum Advert Test Valley Forum Advert

Test ValleyTHE Forum AdvertOF HONOURING CENTENARY THE WOMAN’S VOTE Forum Advert & Broadcaster Jenni With Journalist Murray as Guest Speaker for the prestigious Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony, together with a brand new, independently judged, category celebrating Test Valley’s Businesswoman of the Year, 2018 saw the

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Stephanie Barnett of Pure Human Resources The Sheep Shed Gallery vivaMOS Ltd. VuePoint Solutions Ltd. Wathen Marine Catering Equipment Services Ltd.

Yes, 2018 has been a phenomenal year in the Test Valley Business Awards’ history; leaving us anticipating the endless possibilities of the 2019 Awards programme. Now in its 14th year, the Test Valley Business Awards – run by a steering group of volunteers – has become a wellestablished platform to champion business excellence. It is a great way of shining a light particularly on the many new and small businesses in the region, all doing interesting and valuable work, but often out of sight. For more information about the Test Valley Business Awards, please visit: www.tvbawards.org.uk

Hampshire Facial Enhancement Acupuncture Providing fresh and gentle facial rejuvenation to tired skins

Benefits of Facial Enhancement Acupuncture Increased circulation • Better skin tone • Softens fine lines Chemical free • Increases the release of endorphins Effective in treating Acne, Eczema and Rosacea

T: 01794 501519 hampshirefacialenhancementacupuncture.co.uk Latimer Street, Romsey, SO51 8DF

WELLB EING Dorthe will cleanse and thoroughly dry your skin. Next, she’ll pull an area of your skin taut with one hand, and hold a sterile 10 gauge blade at a 45 degree angle in the other hand and use short, swift strokes to scrape off dead skin cells and peach fuzz. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE? About 30 minutes

THE FORUM TALKS TO DORTHE THOMAS, ANDOVER’S ANTI-AGEING SKINCARE SPECIALIST, ABOUT HER LATEST TREATMENT DERMAPLANING Dermaplaning is a method of exfoliation that consists of using a scalpel to gently scrape off the top layer of dulling dead skin cells in order to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion. Sounds scary but it really isn’t, as long as you’re in the right hands. Dermaplaning is a favourite in the entertainment industry, specifically among models and actresses. Why? It eliminates that annoying peach fuzz that cakes up in makeup and can be enhanced by harsh production lighting and highdefinition cameras. “Dermaplaning removes all the dead skin cells and also the facial hair, leaving the surface very smooth,” explains Dorthe. Dermaplaning also allows for greater penetration of skincare products and creates a flawless canvas for makeup to glide on smoothly. HOW IS DERMAPLANING DONE? Dermaplaning is a painless procedure and can be compared to the sensation of shaving your legs, but in this case, it’s on your face. First,

Our enticing treatment menu includes your everyday beauty and wellbeing essentials such as facials, waxing, threading, massage, reflexology, eyelash extension, Jessica manicures and pedicures, Geleration Gel Nails, and Xen-tan spray tan, as well as a range of specialist Aesthetic treatments such as IPL laser hair reduction, lipo laser, cavitation and radio-frequency slimming treatments, cellulite reduction, Crystal Clear microdermabrasion, Oxygen facials, derma pen and skin peels.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF DERMAPLANING? There are no side effects and zero downtime. After the treatment, your skin will be highly sensitive to sun exposure and may already look pink, so be sure to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF DERMAPLANING? You’ll immediately look more radiant with a more even skin tone and texture. All of your peach fuzz will be gone, which is why first-timers say their skin has never felt so soft before. RECOMMENDED COURSE FOR OPTIMAL RESULTS? Dermaplaning removes 21 days worth of dead skin cells, so it’s best to allow the skin to complete its rejuvenation cycle before your next treatment. “Many women are often concerned that shaving peach fuzz will make it grow back heavier and darker, but that’s just an old wives’ tale” explains Dorthe. Superficial vellus hair (that’s the science-y name for clear or white soft fine facial hair) will grow back at the same rate and with the same texture as it was before the treatment. Dorthe is offering Forum readers a special introductory price on Dermaplaning treatments booked before Christmas. Call her on 01264 748300 or email info@dorthethomasspa.com to find out more. www. dorthethomasspa.com

COMMUNITY

PROFESSIONAL

HOTEL'S TRANSFORMATION PLAN TO INCLUDE A LUXURY SPA AND NEW RESTAURANT The four star Holiday Inn Winchester, is planning a complete transformation of its internal public areas, and the creation of a new luxury Spa, with the project costing over £2 million.

MAYOR OF TEST VALLEY RECEIVES MBE MEDAL AT WINDSOR CASTLE Mayor and former Leader of Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC), Councillor Ian Carr, has received his award for appointment as a Member of the Order of the British Empire from the Queen. In November, Councillor Carr MBE travelled to Windsor Castle with his wife Beryl and daughters Joanne and Sally to receive his medal. The former Leader’s award recognises his services and dedication to local government having served as Leader of TVBC for almost 20 years. He stepped down in May 2017 and is the first councillor from the authority to have held a separate second term as mayor which began this year. Councillor Carr said: “To be surrounded by my family to collect this most prestigious of awards is something I will never forget. “As I have said before, my aim when serving as Leader of the council, and now as mayor, is to serve the community to the absolute best of my ability. Being recognised with this award I hope means that I have done that and am continuing to do so. It is truly an incredible honour.” Current Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said: “Ian has worked tirelessly for the benefit of Test Valley residents during his long period of service on the council – and this honour is thoroughly deserved. I can think of no more fitting way to celebrate his achievements than for him to have collected his honour from the Queen while accompanied by his family.” Councillor Carr was elected as a borough councillor in 1987 and was previously mayor of Test Valley in 1995/96. He served as Leader from May 1999 until his retirement from the role in May 2017, making him the longest serving councillor in this role.

The redevelopment will provide a new ‘open lobby’ to the upper ground floor, which will feature a new restaurant with outside dining. An elegant long and curved bar will also be located on the upper ground floor next to the restaurant and will also serve the large lounge area, that is so popular with business visitors for casual meetings and there will also be a “To Go” café. A special workplace will be also be available in the lounge area, and for those who want to be entertained there will be a media/fun relaxing area. The refurbishment will begin in January 2019 and will be completed in a number of smaller phases that will enable the hotel to continue to provide its existing facilities of restaurant, bar, reception and lounge areas until the upper ground floor transformation is completed in April 2019. This will be followed by the creation of a new Spa on the lower ground floor level that will be completed in July 2019. The Spa will also have a private screened outdoor terrace with a relaxing hot tub. Luxurious treatment rooms will offer peaceful spaces for visitors to be pampered and there will be a relaxation zone, a gym, a studio and a large hydrotherapy pool. Spa memberships will be available for local people. BUSINESS AS USUAL Marc Solarz, the hotel’s General Manager commented: “It will still be business as usual at the hotel during the refurbishment, as our architects and designers have carefully planned a phased approach to the transformation, so we can still offer hotel guests and visitors the same facilities. Every aspect of the project has been carefully planned in specific phases, with areas screened and sound proofed to avoid disturbance to residents and visitors.” For more information please visit www.hiwinchester.co.uk

Richard Steel & Partners

He became deputy mayor in May 2017 and mayor in May this year, before being appointed as a Member of the Order of the British Empire in June in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

The Family Owned Funeral Directors

Some of the highlights during his time as Leader include the acquisition of Fishlake Meadows as an area for the public to enjoy informal recreation. He also oversaw the purchase of The Lights Theatre, as well as fought to secure the £2.6m from the Enterprise M3 LEP and other funding for the construction of Andover College’s Future Skills and Technology Centre.

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14 14

FEATURE PROFESSIONAL

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS… IS CHRISTMAS

hat’s on?” He asks, sitting down with his wife and daughters in front of the flat screen. Judging by their feverish anticipation, some momentous broadcast is imminent.

“Sshh!” He should have guessed. The John Lewis Christmas commercial. A festive triumph as always; witty and poignant. But such excitement for an advert? In November? Mind you, the tree’s already twinkling in the corner.. When he was a kid, Christmas kicked off on 24th December. Sounds of frantic sellotaping ceased as his parents joined him for the ‘big film’ before bedtime. The year of the pogo-stick featured ‘Khartoum’, with, if memory served him, rather un-christmassy scenes of slaughter and decapitation. Happy days. Sunday lunchtime: Salt baked sea bass. Whilst nice in its way, he felt a bit cheated out of his roast. And not entirely full. “Dress rehearsal for Christmas.Very European to have fish.” Mummy announced. Dad was (very quietly) appalled. With Brexit and everything, he wasn’t feeling particularly European just now. But he didn’t cook and it didn’t do to upset Mummy. Rather wear a wasp nest on your head than upset Mummy. “Lovely…” he murmured, planning a clandestine visit to the Toby Carvery for a pre-Christmas stuff-up lunch. He sighed in pleasant anticipation.

WWW.LUCIAFOSTERFOUND.COM

he was a man apart, independent, free. A few purchases, a charitable donation and he was done. Cradling his poinsettia and carrier bag, it was dark when he arrived home. His children looked tragic. His wife had a mobile to her ear, shouting at some poor unfortunate as she paced. His usually positive, confident wife hung up and crumpled. Dad held her close. Crying into his coat, she hiccupped; “Christmas is ruined. We bought presents online, the tracking said they would arrive before today, but nothing’s come.” She snivelled into his lapel. “And the things I got gift wrapped in the market – there’s tins of beans inside the boxes! I’ve been robbed.” “And no sea bass in the groceries.” She wailed. ‘Every cloud’ He kissed the top of her head. “Love, don’t cry. I’ll nip out and get your big fish before the shops shut.” Mercifully, no sea bass were found that Christmas Eve. Turkeys, however, were abundant. Keeping the joy from his voice, he rang and broke the news to his wife. Like a deranged stockbroker she shouted “Buy! Buy!” Elated, he bought a bird and all the trimmings. Next day, after his second Christmas dinner that week, Dad presented his forlorn family with their presents. “Daddy, I love Pooh bear!” His youngest cooed. “Pluto was always my favourite.” His oldest cuddled hers. “Minnie. That’s what you used to call me.” Mummy smiled nostalgically.

Mummy was saying “Girls, Christmas shopping tomorrow? Get it done, no rushing around on Christmas Eve - like your Dad. “ Sadly true, every year. And he wasn’t alone.Vast numbers of men gathered, moving in herds, buying the wrong perfume and lingerie two sizes too small. They would not be seen together in such numbers again until 14th February.

“I’ve an idea.” Dad had their attention. Ideas were Mummy’s department. “We’ll have a Festive Fishy Christmas when things arrive from China.” “Really?” Mum looked happier. “Yup - something to look forward to. And there’s more.You know, Christmas isn’t about stuff.

“Tomorrow..? ” “Cyber Monday, Daddy. Everyone does online shopping then, if they didn’t get it all on Black Friday.” His youngest, the go-to for all things interweb. “Black Friday? Didn’t you go with your friends, love?” Curious, he hadn’t seen his wife weighed down with carrier bags. “Yes! A fight broke out over discounted T.V.s. We saw it from the escalator.Vicious, so much blood.. When those women were arrested, we called it a day and went for Prosecco.” Christmas Eve: “I’m off into town. Anyone coming?” “No thanks love, expecting some deliveries. And the food shopping’s arriving.”

When you die, your last thoughts probably won’t be about stuff. They’ll be about love and memories. So, no tacky gift sets this year, we’re off to Disneyland Paris instead. We’ll squeeze it in before I have to eat a big fish.”

Dad left the house with its vague air of anxiety. Purposefully he walked along the High Street. The males were flocking, but that year

The word ‘KHARTOUM’ loomed large across the flat screen.. Happy days.

Squeals of delight followed and Dad felt a non-alcoholic Yuletide glow. “And now, family-mine, a festive filmic treat from my childhood. Whilst not as feelgood as the John Lewis ad, it definitely has something.” Mother and daughters smiled indulgently. Dad had, after all, rescued Christmas.

PROFESSIONAL

FORUM MEDIA & DESIGN

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GARDEN

Supply and planting large specimen trees and shrubs Espalier, pleached and instant impact hedges All trees and shrubs carefully selected Design, landscaping and ongoing maintenance Free site visit and consultation Bosque is a trading name of Just Limegrass Ltd. Harko: 07710 502798 Tom: 07855 656984 www.bosque international.co.uk

RICHARD PENFOLD FIREWOOD SUPPLIER

Seasoned mixed species of hardwood logs available in various load sizes and log lengths. I produce all my own firewood sourced from thinning and coppicing operations in FSC controlled sustainable local woodlands. My logs are naturally dried and stored in adapted barns for low moisture content and are always delivered dry. Firewood available all year round. PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL SERVICE

hglmltd@gmail.com

Tel: 01794 389603 or Mob: 079000 61158 RICHARD PENFOLD

Stockbridge Marquees Event planning and equipment hire

• Ideal for garden parties, weddings or corporate events • • Dress your event with our stylish marquees and gazebos • • Dancefloors, Flooring, Lighting and Decoration available • • Full Bar Service and Staffing’ • Now based at Broughton Water Buffalo, ask about our venue hire

For a free site visit please call:

02382 026082 / 07826 916114

team@stockbridgemarquees.com www.stockbridgemarquees.com

Garden Maintenance Keeping your garden looking the way you want it to all year round.

Lawn Mowing

Gutter Cleaning

Hedge Cutting

Leaf Sweeping

Edging/Weeding

Fence Painting

Pruning

Deck Staining

General Clean

Removal of Old Shed

Jet Wash of: Patios Paths Conservatories Driveways

A Professional & Reliable Service Fully Insured Hours to suit you For a free, no obligation quote, please contact John on:

T: 07928027462 john.dashwood308@gmail.com

OpenCometo& Visit Yard & Public &OurTrade Display Area Customers

Come & Visit Our Yard & Display Area

GAZEBOS & ACCESSORIES

Live the Dream with a Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services

youforgotten dream ofal-fresco simply relaxing with a well earned glass of wine, or are hosting that never to be forgotten al-fresco Whether you dream of simply relaxing with a well earned glass of wine, or are hosting thatWhether never to be thatcheddreams or timber into roofed Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services will turn your dreams into party. A thatched or timber roofed Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services willparty. turnA your reality - it just couldn’t be easier.

reality - it just couldn’t be easier.

Equestrian Fencing Services All gazebos from Equestrian Fencing Services are made All gazebos from Equestrian Fencing Services are madeoffer an extensive range of ENTRANCE GATES • EQUESTRIAN BUILDINGS Gazebos from acarefully materials. They are designed to provide a shower proof materials. They are designed to provide shower selected proof timber from well managed sustainable forests, size and style of garden. environment. It is important to appreciate that in severe sustainable forests, to suit every size and style of garden. environment.•It isLOG important to appreciate thattoinsuit severe OAK GARAGES • SHEDS STORES • every GARDEN GATES Equestrian Fencing Services offer an extensive range of

Gazebos from carefully selected timber from well managed

weather conditions there may be a chance of water

Specifically designed accessories to fit our range of

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

ingress. We recommend with the thatched range that you

Gazebos are available to further enhance your comfort

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

invest in a roof liner to improve water protection.

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

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

Unless stated all Gazebos A full set of gazebo accessories can be found on the come insidewith a deck base, solid and

A full set of gazebo accessories can be found on the inside

balustrade infill panels. Delivery and assembly on to level

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

back page of this brochure.

pre-prepared base is also included in the price.

With all the benefits of a thatched or timber roofed Gazebo

from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true!

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

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

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

WISHING ALL OF OUR CUSTOMERS A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true!

from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true!

With all the benefits of a thatched or timber roofed Gazebo

pre-prepared base is also included in the price.

back page of this brochure.

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

balustrade infill panels. Delivery and assembly on to level

A full set of gazebo accessories can be found on the inside

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

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

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

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

weather conditions there may be a chance of water

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

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

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

materials. They are designed to provide a shower proof

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

Gazebos from carefully selected timber from well managed

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

Equestrian Fencing Services offer an extensive range of

KINDLING £2.95 (each)

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

reality - it just couldn’t be easier.

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

BIRCH NETS £5.95 (each)

FIRE BRIQUETTES £3.80 (Bag of 12)

reality - it just couldn’t be easier.

All gazebos from Equestrian Fencing Services are made

KILN DRIED FIREWOOD

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

C A L L U S N OW O N : 0 1 3 2 9 8 3 5 1 0 0 email: info@equestrianfencing.com Live the Dream with a Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services

www.equestrianfencing.com

Live the Dream with a Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services

H I G H R I D G E F A R M , H O S P I T A L 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

GAZEBOS & ACCESSORIES

GAZEBOS & ACCESSORIES Come & Visit Our Yard & Display Area

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

Come & Visit Our Yard & Display Area

RETAIL On a seasonal upbeat note Deborah reminds us that “the same pianos have also entertained their families and friends across eighty-four Christmas’s”!

VINE PIANOS - EXPERT PIANO RESTORATION Deborah has had the pleasure of completing piano restorations throughout October and November. She talks about having a pale mahogany 1970’s upright piano stripped, and sprayed Drawing Room Blue ready for a December Sale! Whilst working on a Chapel Baby Grand, and amongst other things the ivory keys of a Challen Baby Grand, Deborah was deeply reflective having found a 1934 label

hidden under the action of one of the pianos, “Imagine their history ……the Baby Grand Pianos have been played throughout the second world war to date…. they were needing some TLC but they are still sounding so beautiful.”

Don’t forget that to keep your piano feeling even, with a beautiful sounding tone, and looking pretty, it requires a six-monthly tuning, occasional regulation and general maintenance (a vacuum!). Contact Vine Pianos to make an arrangement. Tel: 01264 810410 / 07949 403888 hello@vinepianos.co.uk www.vinepianos.co.uk Vine Pianos, THe Vine Yard, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HF

“Piano is not just for Christmas” - Deborah Barlow “Some gifts are more than just a gift” - Sir Elton John

Visit the Vine Yard on 1st December 2018 for music, wine, and for a one day only

10 PERCENT OFF!

Tel: 01264 810410 / 07949 403888 www.vinepianos.co.uk

hello@vinepianos.co.uk

VINE PIANOS THE VINE YARD HIGH STREET STOCKBRIDGE SO20 6HF

RETAIL

IT'S PARTY TIME.. LET'S TALK JEWELLERY! Designer Davina Robins and celebrity fashion stylist Donna McCulloch offer their insight on your jewellery looks for this party season. “Jewellery is one of the most popular gifts for Christmas and is adorned and adored at parties at this time of year” says Davina. Here are a few pearls of wisdom to picking the right piece of jewellery for a party or as a gift for loved ones this Christmas. She explains “It’s not what you wear but how you wear it” – a cliché but so true!

GOLD & BLACK SPINEL HANDMADE LONG DROP EARRINGS BY DAVINA ROBINS @ £455

STATEMENT EARRINGS “I have always been an earrings person. It is my “go-to” piece of jewellery to make me ready to leave the house. The statement earring in particular has never been more key than this season – I absolutely love making these shoulder duster drops – here in Gold and Black Spinels. They can also be made to the clients colour or stone specification.

VIVID BLUE NECKLACE £750

COLOURED AGATE BOULDER PENDANTS BY DAVINA ROBINS FROM £345

PEARLS So I absolutely adore pearls and use them in exciting ways in my own designs - like these large peacock freshwater pearls shown above combined with metallic quartz and Lapis Lazuli in this vivid blue collar necklace. Stylist Donna suggests, “mix it up and don’t play too safe, add a biker jacket & a tee to add some edge if necessary.” COLOUR This is the subject closest to my heart. People shy away from coloured jewellery but still love to admire it. “Coloured jewellery can add drama and excitement to a neutral toned outfit or an all black ensemble’. Says Donna @ sulkydollstyling

Davina adds “If it’s not quite right or too much it won’t make sense please please come and ask me, I love to give advice on colour and gemstones in my studio in Stockbridge” Davina is especially lookling forward to the festive period and a busy December when she will be available to talk through things face to face and solve any last minute jewellry needs for the party season. For any enquiries or private consultations please contact Davina Tel 07810 008132 Email davina@davinarobinsdesigns.com Instagram @davina.robins Contribution by Donna McCulloch Stylist @ sulkydollstyling & Fashion editor @stylenest

RETAIL

MARKET SQUARE

Annie's Just Jane

Mayfly Vintage

Miracca & Browne

Gossard Purple Lace Set £52 Annie’s Just Jane, 7 St John’s Street, Salisbury, SP1 2SB Tel: 01722 328704 | www.anniesjustjane.co.uk

Furniture and homeware showroom. Open Wednesday Friday 10am - 3pm, Saturdays 10am-4pm. The Old Stables, Chilbolton Down Farm, Stockbridge, SO20 6BU Tel: 07801 199131 | www.mayflyvintage.co.uk

“Lovers Knot” amethyst cocktail ring in 18ct rose gold - £3,400 Strawberry House, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HF Tel: 01264 810075 | hello@miraccabrowne.com

Andrew Smith & Son - Auctioneers

The Artisan Studio

Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

Fine Art, Asian Art, Antiques, Interiors & Collectables 11th & 12th Dec. Viewing Thur 6th to Monday 10th Tel: 01962 735988 | www.andrewsmithandson.com

Handmade luxury homewares and accessories. First Floor, Fisherton Mill, Salisbury, SP2 7QY Tel: 07365 264560 | www.theartisanstudio.uk

Kiln Dried Hardwood Logs from £150 + VAT High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath Tel: 01329 835100 | www.equestrianfencing.com

Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

Miracca & Browne

Mokaya Cocoa

Standard and Bespoke Garden Buildings. Log Stores from - £195 + Vat High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath Tel: 01329 835100 | www.equestrianfencing.com

Atom diamond carriage pendant in 18ct white gold, £4,400 Strawberry House, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HF Tel: 01264 810075 | hello@miraccabrowne.com

For all your chocolate needs this Christmas. Perfect stocking fillers for all the family. Mokaya Cocoa, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HF Tel: 01264 811440 | Mokaya Cocoa Stockbridge

RETAIL

Pop in to see our divine cashmeres, indulgent candles, cards and extensive carefully selected gifts

Tel: 01264 883034 S TO C K S AT T H E V I N E , H I G H S T R E E T, S TO C K B R I D G E , S O 2 0 6 H F

Where to find us Owton’s Chalcroft Farm Burnetts Lane, West End, Southampton, SO30 2HU Tel: 02380 601154 shop@owtons.com Now open Sundays 10am – 2pm

Owton’s at Garsons

Owton’s award winning family butchers offer quality fresh meat, locally sourced food & outstanding value straight from your local farm Our Christmas hampers are terrific value at only £79.99* Get a £5 voucher to spend in January or February if you collect your hamper in November or December.

What you get with an Owton’s Christmas Hamper:

• 1.9kg NZ Leg Of Lamb (Feeds up to 8) • 1.8kg Beef Roasting Joint (Feeds up to 10) • 1.8Kg Gammon Joint (Feeds up to 10) • 1.8Kg Leg Of Pork (Feeds up to 10) • 454g Owtons Pork Sausagemeat • 454g Owtons Pork Chipolatas • 454g Green Streaky • FREE 2.25kg Boneless Turkey Breast Roll*

Fontley Road, Titchfield, PO15 6QX Tel: 01329 854895 garsons@owtons.com

Owton’s at Country Market Kingsley, Bordon, Hampshire, GU35 0QP Tel: 01420 5450902 countrymarket@owtons.com

Owton’s at Rosebourne Rosebourne Garden Centre, Amesbury Road, Weyhill, Andover, SP11 8ED Tel: 01264 774888 Rosebourne@owtons.com

#OwtonsButchers

*You can replace the free Boneless Turkey Breast Roll with a 4.6kg Turkey for £84.99

See all our latest news, offers and events at: www.owtons.com

RETAIL

COMMUNITY providing a bespoke service, why not commission a piece for the one you love? Perhaps you are planning a wedding, as the Bride to be you'll find everything on Stockbridge High Street including a beautiful bridal gown shop, a glorious florist plus a wine and a whisky merchant. Late night shopping could be the perfect time for any happy couple to do a little planning together! One of the most recent additions to the High Street is a bookshop, when you add in the various gift shops and interior/ home stores you can see how wonderfully Stockbridge High Street caters for men, women and children - the little ones especially love the chocolate shop!

STOCKBRIDGE LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING Stockbridge late night Christmas shopping will not have a celebrity turning on the lights this year, after all, who could possibly follow Piers Morgan and his failure to switch the lights on?!

shopping streets in England. Nearly all of the shops are independently owned and everything has been carefully selected by their owners to give you the best possible array of goods to choose from.

This year we are simply offering you a very warm welcome to one of the most unique

The High Street has an excellent range of clothing boutiques, each offering a dazzling selection of clothing and accessories for the lady or man in your life. There are also country sporting goods stores, get lost amongst the rods, flies and cartridges. We have stunning jewellery shops each

BOXING DAY RACING AT FONTWELL

transformed into a winter wonderland with Reindeers, an Ice Rink and Festive food and beverages, as well as plenty of games stalls! The atmosphere and cheers continue throughout the day as the 2nd most prestigious race in England, The King George VI Chase is played on the big screen for everyone to see. Tickets start from ÂŁ19 when booked in advanced. The Premier admission tickets are likely to sell out so please book early to avoid disappointment!

It's been said that Boxing Day racing is part of the fabric of English life. A wonderful tradition that takes place across the country. Our gates will open on Boxing Day morning for the Sussex ritual as thousands of racegoers escape the chaotic Christmas celebrations. A wonderful chance to get some fresh air and walk off the Christmas pudding! Fontwell will have plenty going on outside of the 7 exhilarating races. The site will be

Centre course parking on this fixture is FREE of charge, so it is operated on a first come, first serve basis. Please be aware that the centre course is all grass, so please ensure you wear the appropriate footwear. For tickets and more information please visit www.fontwellpark.co.uk/whats-on/ boxing-day-racing Fontwell Park Racecourse Arundel Road, Fontwell, Arundel, BN18 0SY

So after you have exhausted all the shopping possibilities, treat yourself to a delicious and warming hot chocolate at the Italian deli. John Robinsons Butchers will be serving their delicious, award winning hotdogs as usual. Each shop may have their own events going on, from drinks, nibbles and raffles. Please do come and join in the fun. So come along and visit each shop, you will receive wonderful customer service and remember, parking in the High Street is free.

ARE YOU IN NEED OF SOME GREAT VINTAGE GIFT IDEAS THIS CHRISTMAS OR CHRISTMAS HOMEWARE?

ď Ź

Situated minutes outside Stockbridge on the A30 Stockbridge/Sutton Scotney Road, the 3,000 sq ft Mayfly Vintage showroom is stocked full of unique vintage finds. Perfect for finding a more unusual Christmas present seasonal stock includes vintage sledges, baubles, clocks, decorative stars, bells, artworks, maps, old school desks and much more. Regularly featured in national interiors and antiques magazines, Mayfly Vintage is a go to destination for quality vintage furniture, lighting and homewares selling its unique items both locally and worldwide. Open Wednesday, Thursday, Fridays 10am3pm and Saturdays 10am-4pm. Ample car parking available. Do come and join us for mince pies on the first three Saturdays in December. www.mayflyvintage.co.uk

STOCKBRIDGE LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENT FRIDAY 7TH DECEMBER 2018 4.30PM 'TILL LATE

A WARM WELCOME WILL BE GIVEN TO ALL THOSE ATTENDING THIS EVENING





SHOPS OPEN FOR THE LATE NIGHT EVENT

Miracca & Browne Jewellers

Stocks

Beautiful fine jewellery. Bespoke and ready to wear

Experience our divine cashmere and fun faux fur. Every inch packed with hundreds of gifts for the people in your life

The Garden Inn

Great gifts, florist & fresh flowers for every occasion & decorative ideas for garden and home

The Kave

We offer an eclectic mix of one off vintage finds and local handmade gifts

Orvis Men's and Ladies shops

Our American take on traditional country clothing. Come and see our new Autumn collections for him, her and hound

Browns of Stockbridge Affordable Chic for you and gifts Join us for a glass of Fizz

The Bookmark

Brilliant beautiful books

George Clark

Broughton Crafts



Lovely gift shop full of goodies for Christmas and beyond

Contemporary and traditional interior accessories, including an abundance of affordable gifts

Wine Utopia

The Owl and the Pussycat

An authentic wine shop with knowledgable staff and personal service.

Exceptional Christmas shopping for all the family and excellent customer service

Mokaya Cocoa

The Little Whisky Shop

Hundreds of whiskies and gins from around the world, along with other whisky related gifts - with plenty of tasters - a slice of heaven In Stockbridge

Bursting with heavenly confectionery and cards for all occasions

Roxtons

Retailers of unique women's and men's wear, gifts and lifestyle accessories

Cleverly Wrapped

Luxury multi brand boutique selling cashmere, scarves and accessories all beautifully wrapped

John Robinson Butchers



Quality Butcher, enjoy one of our award winning hot dogs whilst shopping

Carina Rose Bridal

Veils, shoes, bags, boleros, hair accessories and many, many stunning dresses. "Beautiful Bridal Wear Starts here".

Davina Robins Designer Jewellery Bespoke made and handcrafted designer jewellery for all occasions

Prego

Traditional real hot chocolate, Italian treats, wine and food.

Robjents

Perfect for country pursuit lovers

PLEASE JOIN US FOR A FANTASTIC EVENING CELEBRATING OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES!

OUR PLANET

PALM OIL

DEFORESTATION FOR EVERYDAY PRODUCTS

ou have seen it all over the news in the last few days, the world has suddenly opened its eyes to the plight of the orangutan and many other rainforest animals, pushed toward extinction. Highlighted recently by a powerful advert created for Iceland supermarket chain. It is easy to sign a petition or share a news item but does it stop there? Is there something we can do as a purchaser to quell the tide of destruction? Rainforest Rescue has a few simple tips and guidelines that could help make a difference. If everyone does a little it may just influence the major retailers and their suppliers to take steps toward saving our depleting rainforests. The warm, humid climate of the tropics offers perfect growth conditions for oil palms. Day after day, huge tracts of rainforest in Southeast Asia, Latin America and Africa are being bulldozed or torched to make room for more plantations, releasing vast amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. As a consequence, Indonesia – the world’s largest producer of palm oil – temporarily surpassed the United States in terms of greenhouse gas emissions in 2015.With their CO2 and methane emissions, palm oil-based biofuels actually have three times the climate impact of traditional fossil fuels. Palm oil is not only bad for the climate: As their forest habitat is cleared, endangered species such as the orangutan, Borneo elephant and Sumatran tiger are being pushed closer to extinction. Smallholders and indigenous people who have inhabited and protected the forest for generations are often brutally driven from their land. In Indonesia, more than 700 land conflicts are related to the palm oil industry. Human rights violations are everyday occurrences, even on supposedly “sustainable” and “organic” plantations. As consumers, we are largely unaware of these broader issues, yet our daily palm oil consumption also impacts our health: refined palm oil contains large amounts of harmful fatty acid esters that are known to damage DNA and cause cancer.The solution – a revolution on our dinner tables and in our fuel tanks.

Follow these simple tips to recognize, avoid and combat palm oil: Enjoy a home-cooked meal - Use your imagination: A meal cooked from fresh ingredients beats processed foods containing palm oil every time. Oils such as sunflower, olive, rapeseed or flaxseed are ideal for cooking and baking. Read labels - As of December 2014, labeling regulations in the EU require food products to clearly indicate that they contain palm oil. However, in the case of non-food items such as cosmetics and cleaning products, a wide range of chemical names may still be used to hide the use of palm oil. A quick check of your favorite search engine will turn up palm oil-free alternatives, however. Remember that the customer is king Ask your retailers for palm oil-free products.Write to product manufacturers and ask them why they aren’t using domestic oils. Companies can be quite sensitive to issues that give their products a bad name, so inquiring with sales staff and contacting manufacturers can make a real difference. Public pressure and increased awareness of the problem have already prompted some producers to stop using palm oil. Sign petitions and write your elected representatives Online campaigns put pressure on policymakers responsible for biofuels and palm oil imports. Have you already signed all of Rainforest Rescue’s petitions? Leave your car at home Whenever you can, walk, ride a bicycle or use public transport. Be informed and inform others: Big Business and governments would like us to believe that biofuels are good for the climate and that oil palm plantations are sustainable. Spread the word - share this information with your family and friends and encourage them to rethink their consumption habits. It’s in our hands! For more information on how you help and the destruction of our rainforests visit: www.rainforest-rescue.org

CULTURE

n a P Peter

12â&#x20AC;&#x201C;22 DEC @ 7.30PM & SUN 16, 2018 @ 2.30PM. NO PERF 17 DEC

CULTURE

MUSIC AND LAUGHTER

making his third visit to Weyhill. Apart from being an accomplished pianist, keyboard player and recording artiste, James also has his own 20-piece band. He writes all the arrangements and orchestrates the music to suit the mood and occasion, with styles ranging from the Big Band era to the present day. Over the years, he has accompanied many top showbiz stars and, along with his band, has performed on cruise ships as well as at numerous Mecca International nightspots. The evening consisted of a wide range of music with over 50 different tunes being performed – freely interspersed with numerous jokes that the audience clearly enjoyed. Fittingly, a version of the Club’s signature tune – Weyhill March – opened proceedings, followed by Big Band, Ragtime and a selection of familiar Cha Cha tunes. The variation continued with a Latin American medley and a trio of Londonthemed songs. James then cleverly combined Ennio Morricone’s theme from Once Upon A Time In The West with some well-known hymn tunes – a surprisingly effective blend. The first half concluded with The Liberty Bell March (Sousa, naturally!), As Time Goes By – from the film Casablanca, and the more recent TV sitcom of the same name – finishing with another Big Band number, Take The A Train.

The entertainment for the WEOS October concert was provided by JAMES GOFF from Newport Pagnell in Buckinghamshire,

EVENTS AT THE FAIRGROUND THIS DECEMBER

The concert resumed with another Morricone classic, the memorable theme

Plus, you can grab yourself a cup of tea and a slice of cake at the same time; what more could you want?

from The Good, The Bad And The Ugly, complete with the authentic film sound, followed by a session of Disco music and an extensive medley of tunes composed by Israel Beilin (better known as Irving Berlin). James then introduced the Classical genre, performing a few waltz tunes from The Merry Widow (Franz Lehár) before utilising the theatre organ sound for a typical singalong selection. A couple of songs from the age of the Twist preceded a delightful collection of hits recorded by The Seekers, whilst a few more past favourites, including a couple of Beatles numbers, brought the evening to an end … well, not quite, because extra time was added on for an encore – We’ll Meet Again – a prediction that the audience will no doubt wish will be fulfilled. Note: A full review of the concert will be added to the Club’s website, www.weyhilleos.co.uk. The next WEOS concert will be its 200th and will be staged, as usual, at the Fairground Hall, Weyhill on Thursday 15 November. Guest player will be NICHOLAS MARTIN from Leicester – the very same player who performed the Club’s first concert back in 2002. Tickets are generously priced at £5.00 in advance (from Just Teasin, 40 Bridge Street, Andover) or £6.00 at the door. For further information about the Club telephone 01264 323213 or visit www.weyhill-eos.co.uk.

WORKSHOPS AT BIRD TREE DESIGN Come and see the new Christmas creatures and stocking fillers at BirdTree Studios. Unique handmade gifts and kits for crafters of all ages. Plus, you can try a craft for yourself at a fun workshop! Sat 1st Dec from 10.30 am - 12.00pm: Christmas Decorations in felt, £15per person. Wed 5th Dec from 7.15pm - 9.00pm: Baby Robin felting, £15 per person.

WHAT’S ON AT THE SHEEP SHED GALLERY AND TEAROOM The Sheep Shed Gallery and Tearoom is the perfect place to get your Christmas presents for friends and loved ones this year! From small stocking-filler gifts to larger pieces of art, there are plenty of hand-crafted gifts to choose from.

Throughout December, our Charity Art Exhibition will be on display – ‘From A to Z’ is a collection of postcards created by local artists of all ages, inspired by the Alphabet. All works will be for sale anonymously at the same price. The money from all sales will be split equally between our two charities: Enham Trust and Andover Foodbank. www.sheepshedgalleryandtearoom.com

To book yourself a place on one of these workshops, please contact Caro at birdtreedesign@mail.com or call 07941 973634.

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N F I N E A RT AU C TI O NE E RS & VA L U E RS

FINE ART, ASIAN ART, ANTIQUES, INTERIORS & COLLECTABLES AUCTION Tues 11th and Wed 12th December Viewing: Thur 6th, Fri 7th, Sat 8th, Mon 10th Sale mornings for 8.30am

The Fairground Craft Centre at Weyhill offers visitors a collection of arts and crafts studios within an historic Hampshire setting.

Illustrated catalogues available to view online at www.the-saleroom.com www.andrewsmithandson.com

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Surrounded by the walls of ‘the greatest fair in the Kingdom’ you will find a dozen individual units full of crafts, workshop opportunities and local services. Including a Florist and a Spa as well as a number of craftspeople across different trades; all alongside a Gallery and Traditional Tearoom.

CULTURE

COMMUNITY

ROMSEY CHORAL REMEMBRANCE CONCERT REVIEW

combines pastoral lyricism with stirring religious fervour and imaginatively scores the vocal writing for chorus and baritone soloist. Romsey Choral Society produced velvety pianissimos and vibrant, rhythmic panache where required and were splendidly served by bass-baritone Edward Grint. Here was a singer of real conviction and firm technique with perfect diction and a real stylistic understanding of the repertoire. The Requiem was sung in German and again benefited from the baritone’s resonant, dignified delivery. This was matched in the brief soprano solo by the beautifully warm and finely tuned voice of Nina Bennet.

The texts of Vaughan Williams’s Five Mystical Songs and that of Brahms’s German Requiem were perfectly apt for a Remembrance week-end concert in Romsey Abbey. The setting of George Herbert’s words, dating from 1911,

Credit then goes to the choir singing in all seven movements of the Brahms. Conductor Jamie W. Hall achieves considerable cohesion and blend from approximately eighty singers, once more impressive in soft chording and always crisp

JOINT VENTURE SEES NEW MANUFACTURER TAKE UP RESIDENCE IN BUSINESS PARK

joint venture between Kier Property and Test Valley Borough Council. It is the first development of its kind in Andover for more than 20 years. The move will see the company expand its existing operations in Alton and will help to support the local economy and bring new jobs to the borough. Giles Harrison, finance director at Laleham Health & Beauty, said: “This is an exciting time for Laleham Health & Beauty and we're looking forward to expanding our operations into this superb building in the heart of one of the south's best business parks.” Leigh Thomas, executive director of Kier Property, said: "Evolution 50 was built specifically to address a lack of supply of good quality industrial space on the south coast and I'm pleased that our vision for this impressive building is turning into a reality by securing a letting to one of Hampshire's biggest employers.”

It's a healthy start for Evolution 50! A major health and beauty manufacturer is set to take up residence in Test Valley after securing the lease for the modern Evolution 50 unit in Walworth Business Park, Andover. Laleham Health & Beauty will be moving into the 51,626 sq ft unit built as part of a

Economic development and tourism portfolio holder, Councillor David Drew, said: “This is really great news and I am delighted that Laleham Health & Beauty will be joining us in Test Valley. Their presence will help boost the local economy and job opportunities in the area.

in enunciation. There was appropriate dynamic breadth in this work and only the first of the two challenging fugues - that ending movement 3 - led to a loss of power. In such complex and demanding choral writing the choir’s secure rhythms and forward momentum are tributes to their director’s leadership. Instead of the normal orchestral accompaniments to these two works the Society opted for piano-only played with assurance by Richard McVeigh in the Vaughan Williams, joined by Richard Pearce in Brahms’s own arrangement of the Requiem for four hands. A piano’s percussive nature (and here occasionally dubious tuning) perhaps clashes with the many mellifluous moments in this serene programme. Nevertheless, it was warmly received by the large audience. Written by Dereck Beck “The project to deliver the high-quality Evolution 50 unit with our partner, Kier Property, is testament to the Council’s commitment to explore and develop new ways to generate income locally at a time when funding from central government is being reduced.” Adrian Whitfield, from Lambert Smith Hampton, added: “This letting reinforces the current confidence in the Andover market as a well-connected location for the manufacturing and warehousing sectors.” Walworth Business Park is owned by Test Valley Borough Council and has been managed by Kier Property since May 2011. The park is home to many household names, including Twinings, Le Creuset, Londis and Petty Wood, Ocado and Abel & Cole. In a further boost to the area, the development of the Columbus Quarter has commenced on site and will be completed in June 2019 which will deliver a Lidl, Starbucks and Greggs. The letting agents on Walworth Business Park are Adrian Whitfield and Dan Rawlings, of Lambert Smith Hampton, and Shaun Rogerson and Jonathan Manhire, of JLL. Nick Atkinson, of Hurst Warne, acted for Laleham Health & Beauty in the acquisition of Evolution 50. www.testvalley.gov.uk

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FEATURE

HAMPSHIRE MUM

NOT FALLING FOR IT

t’s funny the ageing process, before I was in my fifties I would occasionally hear older ladies explain, ‘Well I had this fall you see and it has taken me a week or two to get over it’. I must confess part of me thought ‘oh for goodness sake! Really?, but not any more. In fact, just recently it seems I have become one of those ladies who fall over regularly and take a while to recover. So there I was in the middle of a local wood, the sun was shinning, the Pagan Pup happily going about his mischief and I was in the midst of a day dram regarding how I would distribute my, (dead certain), Euro Lottery win amongst my friends and relatives when…. Do you know that feeling? It's like the Laurel and Hardy trying to maintain balance and dignity knowing only too well that you can’t save yourself. And so down I went, with all the grace and elegance of a hippo in a tutu making that ‘euff ’ sound as the air left my lungs followed by a rather pathetic ‘oooh ouch’. I lay there for a minute pondering which bit of me hurt the most ankle, hand, back, neck even teeth- but it soon became apparent it was definitely my hip. The Pagan Pup turned up and stood over me as if to ask ‘what are you doing?’ He watched unconcerned as I struggled to my feet and I set about brushing the debris from my clothes before attempting to walk on. Clearly that was not going to happen so I apologised to Pagan Pup that his walk would be cut short and limped back to the car. The next day I felt as if someone had got a hold of my skeleton and shaken it until everything was in the wrong position, but thankfully there was no damage, not even a bruise, so no harm done. I did wonder if there were any external signs of the pain in my hip, so a couple of days later I decided the only way to find out was to take a photo of my upper thigh, not being the owner of a full length mirror – which goes a long way to explain my

numerous fashion faux pas, Anyway there it was, the biggest black and purple bruise I had ever seen with a hard lump in the middle of it. Large enough to cover my enormous upper thigh it actually made a pleasant change aesthetically from the normal white puffy surface.The Husband actually hadn’t noticed but was suitably repulsed when I showed him, which is quite normal. The following week I was coming out of the bathroom post shower and yes, over I went again landing on the same hip! It’s not every day a 15 year old finds his mother in a heap on the landing desperately trying to cover herself up with a bath towel while deciding if anything was broken. “Ugh, Mum, that’s disgusting!’ Thanks. Such was the enormity and ever-changing aubergine hues of said bruising Stars I and II wanted regular updates. But as the bruise faded so did their morbid interest and all I was left with was a sort of yellow stain with a mauve edge, until…. I was walking from my car at a friend’s house when I found myself getting up close and personal with her gravel. Fortunately nobody saw. I felt almost tearful, falling on the same hip yet again, this was getting beyond a joke.That evening I was the proud owner of a purple thumb, a new bruise experience, and a dinner plate sized hard swelling on said hip which had already begun to colour up beautifully. As old wives tales insist that bad things ‘come in three’s’ I have concluded that for the moment at least I’ve had my quota. Friends various have suggested all manner of explanations for falling in the same way three times, the most ghastly of which is ‘old age’! Well, you know what? No way! I’m just not falling for it. Old age? No way you’re meant to wear purple not be purple. Personally I think I am just clumsy! Sandra Pagan

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CHURCH SERVICES

Crawley

St. Mary's Sunday 2 10.00 Family Service Sunday 9 10.00 Morning Worship Sunday 16 18.00 Carol Service Christmas Eve 16.30 Posada Service Christmas Day 11.00 Family Service with Nativity Play by the Sunday School

Goodworth Clatford St Peter's

Bossington St. James

Sunday 2 09.30 Holy Communion Christmas Day 09.30 Holy Communion Sunday 30 10.00 Holy Communion for the Benefice

Broughton St. Mary's

Sunday 2 08.00 Holy Communion 09.30 The Bible Uncovered Sunday 9 09.30 Holy Communion Sunday 16 08.00 Holy Communion 18.00 Carol Service with childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tableau & Broughton choirs Sunday 23 09.30 Family Communion Christmas Eve 17.00 Crib Service Christmas Day 10.00 Family Communion

Chilbolton

St. Mary the Less Sunday 2 10.00 Family Service Sunday 9 10.00 Morning Prayer Sunday 16 16.00 Carol Service Sunday 23 18.00 Benefice Family Communion Christmas Eve 16.00 Crib Service 11.15 Midnight Service at Wherwell Christmas Day 10.00 Family Service

Sunday 2 08.00 Said Holy Communion 11.00 Family Service Sunday 9 11.00 Morning Worship Sunday 16 11.00 Matins Sunday 23 11.00 Holy Communion Christmas Eve 15.00 Crib Service Christmas Day 11.00 Christmas for All

Houghton

All Saint's Church Sunday 9 09.30 Holy Communion Christmas Day 11.00 Family Communion

King's Somborne Methodist Church

Sunday 2 15.30 Candlelit Family Advent Carols Sunday 9 10.30 Morning Worship Sunday 16 10.30 Morning Worship 15.00 Messy Church Sunday 23 10.30 Holy Communion Christmas Day 10.30 Morning Worship Sunday 30 10.30 Morning Worship

King's Somborne

St. Peter & St. Paul Sunday 2 10.00 Parish Communion Sunday 9 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 16 10.00 Parish Communion

Sunday 23 08.00 Holy Communion 10.00 Matins 18.00 ALiVE

Leckford

St Nicholas Sunday 2 08.00 Said Holy Communion Sunday 16 18.00 Carols by Candlelight Christmas Day 09.00 Said Holy Communion

Littleton

St. Catherine's Sunday 2 10.00 Posada Service Sunday 9 10.00 Family Communion Sunday 16 10.00 Morning Worship 18.00 Carol Service Christmas Eve 16.00 Crib Service Christmas Day 10.00 Family Communion

Longstock St. Mary

Sunday 2 12.00 Baptism of Felix Burnfield Sunday 9 09.30 Taize Prayers and Reflections Sunday 16 09.30 Parish Communion Sunday 23 09.15 Christmas Crib Service Christmas Day 10.00 All Age Christmas with Communion, led by The Archdeacon, the Venerable Dr Peter Rouch

Mottisfont

St. Andrew's Sunday 2 11.00 Family Service Sunday 9 11.00 Christingle & Messy Church Sunday 16 09.30 Holy Communion Sunday 23 11.00 Carol Service Christmas Day 11.00 Family Communion

Sparsholt

St. Stephen's Sunday 2 08.00 Holy Communion

Sunday 9 18.00 Carol Service Sunday 16 10.00 Matins Christmas Eve 16.00 Crib Service 23.30 Midnight Service Christmas Day 10.00 Family Service Sunday 30 10.00 5th Sunday Benefice Family Communion

Stockbridge Old St. Peter

Sunday 23 08.00 Said Holy Communion

Stockbridge St. Peter

Sunday 2 10.45 Mattins Sunday 9 10.45 Parish Communion 18.00 Advent Carols with the Jane Austen Singers Sunday 16 10.45 All Age Worship with short Communion Service Sunday 23 18.00 Carols and Lessons with St Thomas More Christmas Eve 18.00 Christmas Story 23.30 Midnight Communion

Stockbridge

St. Thomas More

(Catholic)

Every Sunday 09.00 Mass

Wherwell

St. Peter & Holy Cross Sunday 2 17.30 Advent Candlelight Service following Advent Fayre Sunday 9 18.00 Benefice Evensong Sunday 16 10.00 Family Service with Baptism Christmas Eve 14.30 Crib Service 23.15 Midnight Service Christmas Day 10.00 Family Service

HOME “Every home has its owners design and style and we feel our family orientated business has an empathy to help keep that focus on what the customer wants.” “It was important to David to keep the rooms feeling like a home and not have a clinical, hospital feel to them. We were able to provide him with furniture in several rooms to give a sleek and modern feel.”

BESPOKE FURNITURE – PERFECT FIT David Loftus, who is permanently in a wheelchair was struggling to find fitted bedroom furniture to help him stay independent and in his own home with accessible furniture fit for his needs and maximise storage of equipment and medication. Swan Systems Furniture with showrooms in Fareham and Southampton came to the rescue with its bespoke service, a complete planning service to ensure you maximise your space and designs furniture which compliments your home and works for you. David commented: “I had been looking for

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some time to find a firm that could come up with furniture that was more flexible for my needs than the run-of-the-mill static standard furniture available. “I want to live at home and be as independent as I can be, so it was important for me to be able to gain access easily to the storage in the wardrobes and office drawers and desk space, taking into account my wheelchair, which can take up a lot of space in a room. Barrie Capell, sales and furniture designer at Swan Systems Furniture explained: “When David came to us with his brief, I sat down with him to go through all the options available and made changes to suit David’s needs.” Andover

Barrie added; “His bedside cabinets were specifically designed allowing him to have things close around him when he is in bed, and special castors fitted to allow the cabinets to be moved easily by David’s carers, to gain access to his bedside when needed.” David concluded: “The overall service from Barrie and the team at Swan Systems Furniture was fantastic. He listened and helped come up with solutions to ensure the furniture meets my needs and above all looks homely.” If you want to know more about Swan Systems Furniture with showrooms in Titchfield and Southampton visit www.swansystems.co.uk/ or email: info@swansystems.co.uk Tel: 01329 843636 / 02380 465485

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ALL AT MORRIS PARKER WOULD LIKE TO WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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FEATURE

NO SUCH THING AS A SEAGULL “That’s him!” Jenny points angrily at the culprit. “I’d know him anywhere!” “How do you know it’s male?!” I’m puzzled by her outburst as we walk beside the River Dart in Devon. “It looks like any old seagull to me.” “That’s where you’re wrong.There’s no such thing as a ‘seagull’. There are six species of gulls in Britain and that one’, she waves her umbrella, “is a herring gull.” The gull in question potters along the Dartmouth esplanade with a couple of avian companions. Stiff-legged and hunched against the drizzly wind, the birds amble like an elderly trio on a day-trip to the seaside.They all have orange beaks and white bodies, but the grey feathers on their backs are subtly different, marking each bird as an individual. Each has bright, inquisitive eyes and they watch us with interest, keeping pace as we progress slowly towards the town centre. “They look harmless enough.” I say, trying not to step on one as it meanders in front of me. “You wouldn’t say that if you’d been sitting over there.” She points in the direction of a bench outside a clothes shop, the ideal place to park a bored husband. “Last week I nipped in to try something on and I left Mike outside to enjoy the sunshine. I was half-dressed in the changing room when I heard this terrible shriek. Mike came running in with his new jacket covered in bird poo! That hideous gull was sitting up there on that balcony waiting to take a pot shot at someone. Apparently it happens all the time. Filthy creatures!” I look at the gull and I’m sure it’s smirking.While defecating on unsuspecting citizens is hardly neighbourly, I can’t blame a

bird for choosing a sheltered inland perch over a windswept clifftop.The gulls started coming ashore to escape the worst of the weather, nesting on flat roofs and ledges in coastal towns. But having discovered that there’s easy food to be had, often left lying around by humans, they’ve decided to stay. Instead of using their excellent dive-bombing techniques to catch fish, they have adapted these skills to raid discarded scraps or overflowing dustbins. It’s common to see a flock of gulls wheeling over landfill as another truck-load of garbage is unloaded. And in the same way that some folks enjoy feeding pigeons, others like to give hand-outs to seagulls. If some towns have become plagued with birds, we humans are largely to blame. More worryingly, the boldest gulls will steal from unsuspecting humans. From Skegness to Salcombe, from Tobermory to Tenby, there are stories of people being mugged for a bag of chips or a sandwich. Not content with scavenging in rubbish, the herring gull has grown fearless, and will happily swoop in to steal a snack. So be warned if you enjoy eating al fresco. It’s not just food that’s an issue. Herring gulls are fiercely protective of both nest and chicks and will take on anything – or anyone – they feel is a threat.With a wingspan of 1.4 metres and a sharp beak, an angry gull is something to avoid.There are reports of heads and hands being assaulted and one poor woman being pushed into the sea. Small dogs have been pecked to death and an adult cat (briefly) lifted into the air. Suddenly a scene from The Birds doesn’t seem so far-fetched. Yet some people like them. Brighton and Hove Albion football team is nicknamed The Seagulls, and for many the seaside just wouldn’t be the same without them. BY CLAIRE THURLOW

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Christmas is the most wonderful time of the people, it can be the loneliest. As a charity, at we are tackling the stigma and barriers that contribute to such loneliness. Current national statistics suggest that nearly half of all disabled people in the UK are chronically lonely. This has a substantial impact on people’s overall health and wellbeing, with nearly 40% of disabled people developing mental health issues as a result. Radio Enham aims to combat worrying levels of social isolation. Radio Enham is an essential provision here at Enham Trust; a fully inclusive and accessible radio station broadcast 24hrs a day via the internet. The whole ethos of Radio Enham is built around reducing social isolation, providing a place for disabled people to socialise, learn new skills, provide a source of entertainment and a sense of companionship for those who tune in over the festive period. By making a donation today, you could help people like Adrian to find his voice this Christmas and to reach out to people using Radio Enham. You can make a donation by visiting www.enhamtrust.org.uk/ donate. Thank you for your support and for your kind donation this Christmas.

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01264 362378 • 07899 914960 www.mooresmaintenance.co.uk info@mooresmaintenance.co.uk

FULL OFFER PRICE LIST Carpet Price

info@mooresmaintenance.co.uk

For that perfect home decorating paint finish

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Here’s a selection of frequently asked questions especially for you 1. When you say ‘carpet’ what do you mean? We mean average don’t quibble if the areas are a little larger - it’s all done on fairness Our pricing policy reflects timecarpets it takes to clean working arou Have anythe three That said, we are for example, happy to move your three piece sui and your three under it and replacing it back into piece position. What we don’t price in moving large pieces of freshened furniture likeup bookcases, sideboards or ward suite for to move electrical items, in particular flat-screen tvs. Again we appl just £167! situation and inevitable we do end up moving some furniture arou Are there any ‘hidden’ extra costs? The prices quoted above ar prices you will pay.

The Carpet Care People

Carpet Price

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Fabulous Clean Carpets, Upholstery and Curtains 3 Great Deals!

3 Great Deals!

SUPER-FAST 15 MINUTES DRYING

New installations ~ alterations ~ repairs testing ~ inspection ~ certification

01264 861484 07850 213800

steve@peakelectrics.co.uk www.peakelectrics.co.uk

£97

Est. 48 years

Experts in your Garden

Titchfield

Garden Design Centre

Brighten up your garden

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

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