Test Valley Forum Issue 128 - February

TEST VALLEY

FORUM

FEATURES Literary Days at Pittleworth Manor Lucia-Foster Found - Live and Let Thrive Part II Market Square

REACHING 18,750 READERS * TEST VALLEY TOWNS & VILLAGES ISSUE 128 • FEBRUARY

NEWS & EVENTS Test Valley Business Awards 2019 New Patron for Stockbridge Music Forum Contributor Releases First Novel

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

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

Contributors

Contents 06 Lucia Foster-Found Live and Let Thrive Part II 07 Motoring Local services to keep your vehicle running smoothly 07 Wellbeing Looking after your health

and yourself!

09 Professional From photographers to solicitors - every professional service you need 12 Garden Make your garden dream come true. Or visit local beautiful country gardens

16 Culture The diverse theatre, music, arts and crafts, of Hampshire 18 Literary Days At Pittleworth Manor 20 The Owl and the Pussy Cat

22

Retail/Market Square Our regular retail feature, Unique, Bespoke, Eclectic and Local shopping

Copy Writers Gill Grant, Claire Thurlow, Lucia Foster-Found

Contact Details

24 Hampshire Mum Doggy Paddle

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

26 Entertainment Discover local events and days out in Hampshire.

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

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

28 Education Find local schools and educational experts

Printed on recycled paper

34 Church Services Your local church services

MARCH COPY DEADLINE FEBRUARY 11th

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 user’s sole risk.

Adverts designed by Forum Publications remain the magazine's legal ownership. Š Forum Publications Ltd, 2019 * Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household

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WHAT'S ON? Tuesday 5th February at 7.30pm at 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!

Tuesday 5

FEBRUARY Friday 1

Film showing: 'King of Thieves' (PG) At Chilbolton Village Hall. Starring Michael Caine, Michael Gambon, Jim Broadbent, Tom Courtenay and Francesca Annis. A crew of retired crooks pulls off a major heist in London’s jewellery district, but what begins as a nostalgic last hurrah for the group quickly becomes a brutal nightmare when greed overtakes them. Doors Open at 7 pm; 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.

It happened in Hampshire A light hearted romp through Hampshire’s history over the last 1000 years. At The Lights, Anodver - 7.30pm.Tickets £5, concessions £3.

Available from The Lights Box Office.

Saturday 9

FB Pocket Orchestra

witty and thought-provoking, this is Lucy’s best show yet. She muses on what we receive from our ancestors and what we pass on to future generations. Lucy’s inherited dodgy knees and global warming from her parents, but can she leave a better legacy for her children? Friday 8:00pm Ticket:£15, Pullman Ticket:£16 The Lights,West Street, Andover, Hampshire SP10 1AH. Contact telephone: 01264 368368

Friday 15

Wherwell History Group Illustrated Talk “Accidental Tales from an Historic Pilot” by Major George Bacon MBE. 8pm at Wherwell Village Hall, Church Street,Wherwell, SP11 7JJ. Admision: £4.

Comes to Upper Clatford Village Hall. SP11 7QL at 7.30pm.This dynamic band takes it listeners back to the hot jazz, blues, ragtime and popular dances of the 1920s and ‘30s. A highly entertaining evening of music, wittily and informatively presented, and featuring some excellent singing and musicianship. Licensed bar. Doors open at 7.00pm Tickets £12.50 from The Clatford Village Store and online from www.upperclatfordvillagehall.co.uk or Sally on 01264 336808

Friday 1

Jumble Sale

Wednesday 20

At Chilbolton Village Hall. Good quality men’s, ladies’ and children’s clothing, bric-a-brac and household items at bargain prices. Doors Open at 2 pm. Entrance 50p. Proceeds towards improvements to Village Hall. Registered Charity No. 301781.

Stockbridge Community Cinema: The Wife (15) Drama in which a devoted wife (Glenn Close) questions her life choices, as she travels to Stockholm with her husband (Jonathan Pryce), after he is selected to receive the Nobel Prize for Literature. 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 John Robinson in Stockbridge or online via our website www.stockbridgecinema.org.uk

Saturday 2

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

Thursday 21

Weyhill Electronic Organ Society: Michael Wooldridge in Concert

Friday 15

Stockbridge Community Cinema: Peterloo (12A) In 1819, British forces charge on a peaceful pro-democracy rally at St Peter's Field in Manchester, England, which results in the Peterloo Massacre. Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall SO20 6HE at 7.30pm. Doors open at 7.00pm.Tickets £5.00 from Garden Inn and John Robinson in Stockbridge or online via our website www.stockbridgecinema.org.uk

Tuesday 5

SADS Curtain Calls Come along and be entertained by readings and performances from plays, poems and novels based around the theme of ‘Travelling’ on

Friday 15

Lucy Porter: Pass It On A brand new stand-up show from the TV favourite Lucy Porter. As seen on QI, Room 101, Live at the Apollo. As heard on Radio 4s News Quiz and The Now Show. Always warm,

An evening of melodic, easy listening music 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

MARCH Thursday 21

Weyhill Electronic Organ Society: Byron Jones in Concert An evening of melodic, easy listening music 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

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ERS ORD URING Y D R RUA FEB

Before Makeover

After Makeover

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

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

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Mr Wyatt, Winchester

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2017 2018

6

FEATURE

PART TWO

LIVE AND LET THRIVE S

he hasn’t been in the spare room for a while. Sitting on the bed, not knowing what to do with herself. Where to put herself. Surgery didn’t quite sort it and now there’s the smell of radiation in her nose. Impossible - it doesn’t smell of anything, but real or not, it’s there. Conversely, she can’t smell anything else. Bizarrely, everything tastes of cream, even her tears as she licks them from her deeply, unnaturally tanned top lip.

Vaguely aware that there are only four spiders. Robbie’s gone then.

“Love?” Blessim is calling up the stairs. His poor face wears a look of haunted apprehension.

“Yes, I’m just coming down.” He’s taken to driving her into the forest. Says the trees are good for her, something about positive ions? She goes because she’s no energy to say ‘no’. And it doesn’t really matter where she feels like she’s dying, home or away. ................................................................

It crossed her mind to end it all, but she couldn’t summon the enthusiasm. And now the treatment’s over. With sympathy in their voices they’d said she’d feel worse before she felt better.

They were right, but at least there’s the hope that she’ll feel well again, happy again, fancy a curry again.

She’s drifted into the spare room. The bin bags are still there.

Events overtook her before she had a chance to adios them. It’s an ill wind, her own mother would have said - her daughter’s clothes actually look pretty good on her. They always did have similar taste.

Five spiders. Robbie’s back then. He looks bigger. ................................................................

Blessim has discovered and embraced the ethos of de-cluttering.

He’s cleared out his loft, his shed, his man drawer and the eBay bag. Blessim has also embraced car booting. It was a warm autumn and, feeling a bit better, she finds it pleasant sitting in a deckchair, beside the van, in a field, on a Sunday morning.

Putting the cash in the bedside drawer, next to the bangles, she

thinks the room needs a bit of a dusting. Back down to four spiders. Robbie’s gone again then. That didn’t last long. ................................................................

Only three left; leggy, smallish and medium. With no sign of any flies, she’s starting to suspect that the spiders might be eating each other. The grisly remains (no body, just legs) of the gangly one by the light fitting seems to proves her right. That’s grim.

And when she’d been to see them for her birthday – the band, not the spiders - there were only three by then. Wondering what happened to that other tall one, she laughs out loud. No.. unlikely they ate him.

Like childbirth, the memories of the treatment are starting to dwindle. Blessim’s expression has resumed its benign good humour, although he’s still insisting on a weekly walk in the forest.

Sweet. ................................................................

Her girl’s return is imminent! Making the spare bed with clean bedclothes scented with ‘fresh sky’, or so she hopes, the old sense of smell isn’t what it was. Ditto the old sense of taste, but she’s been cooking her daughter’s favourites and loading up the freezer; lasagne, chicken fajitas, chilli, cottage pie. KP and chief taster, Blessim hasn’t stopped smiling.

The strange tan has faded and she feels well.You can’t really see the scars and, on a small screen, neither could her daughter. And she herself had not guessed that the love that took her girl to the other side of the world had faded too. Seems they’d both been faketiming.

One spider left. Medium. Gary? He seems to be the last one standing and she feels it’s time he was free to make beautiful music outside in the Virginia creeper.

“Goodbye Gary. I love you, but if she clocks you tomorrow she’ll freak. And she’s Back for Good, Gary, my baby’s Back for Good!” In a voice ruined by radiation, she sings. © 2019 Lucia Foster-Found www.luciafosterfound.com

WELLBEING

MOTORING

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Business as unusual!

Winchester Auto Barn (formerly Hill Farm Garage) is officially open for business offering all of the well-established specialist services and competitive rates of Hill Farm (with a few extra bells and whistles). However, we also now host events and have grand designs for the future, including traditional showrooms for classic cars and storage for your own pride and joy.

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8

WELLBEING

SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT

STOCKBRIDGE HAIR SALON EXPANDS TEAM ON FIRST ANNIVERSARY WITH APPOINTMENT OF SENIOR STYLIST Misho Hair Studio in Stockbridge, Hampshire, celebrates its first birthday this month and to mark the milestone expands its team to three with the arrival of experienced Senior Stylist Yasmin Harris.

Yasmin of Andover, previously worked alongside Misho at The Bodybarn in Stockbridge for five years before she caught the travel bug and took time to explore the southern hemisphere. On her return she joined JAS Group AVEDA Salon at Parkwood, Salisbury and eventually became manager at JAS Hair Group in Salisbury town centre before taking a break to welcome her daughter into the world.

Misho Hair Studio opened in January 2018 and welcomed Lauren Willsher as stylist that May. Lauren joined from Toni & Guy in Andover and has quickly developed her skills via training with the AVEDA Academy in London and under Misho’s guidance. The arrival of Harris offers more appointment opportunities with highly accomplished hairdressers in Stockbridge, only a 15 minute drive and equidistant from the thriving communities of Winchester, Andover, Salisbury and Romsey.

On the new appointment, Misho commented: “I’m excited to welcome Yasmin to Misho Hair Studio. Having worked together for a number of years previously I know our guests will love spending time with her. Yasmin is an excellent senior stylist and combined with Lauren our team aims to provide the highest quality experience from a hair salon.”

On returning to work and joining Misho Hair Studio, Harris commented: “I am very excited to be working back in Stockbridge alongside Misho and Lauren and looking forward to welcoming back previous and new guests.”

ABOUT MISHO HAIR STUDIO Misho began his career in the Bulgarian capital of Sofia, before moving to the UK and becoming a British citizen in the process.

After twelve years Misho moved to manage Hair Art in Alresford for two and a half years before realising the dream of opening his own salon. Having over 20 years’ hairdressing experience, Misho has worked closely with Aveda for almost two decades and carries their ethos into the culture of Misho Hair Studio. Located within the tranquil surroundings of The Vine Yard and set back from the vibrant Stockbridge High Street, Misho Hair Studio caters for women’s and men’s hairstyling needs.

Passionate about the quality of and ethics behind the products they use, Misho Hair Studio is proud to associate themselves as an AVEDA exclusive salon. The AVEDA mission is to care for the world we live in, from the products they make to the ways in which they give back to society. Aveda strives to set an example for environmental leadership and responsibility, not just in beauty, but also around the world.

Photograph shows L-R:Yasmin Harris, Misho Dimitrov and Lauren Willshire www.mishohairstudio.co.uk

Our wellbeing depends so much on getting on with other people.

The friendly support of others makes us happier, more able to cope with pain and difficulties, even physically healthier. And it works the other way, too: doing things for others and expressing appreciation measurably lift our own spirits.Yet it is so easy to forget to be nice to each other, to be more dissatisfied than grateful. There is a biological reason for this curmudgeonly inclination; psychologists call it the negative bias. Evolution taught us to be suspicious first and count our blessings later. Even now, when we are comparatively safe from predators – perhaps all the more because we expect comfort and convenience – we are more irked by what we don’t like than appreciative of what we have.

We are more upset to lose £10 than thrilled to gain it. We are more stricken by our failures than we are buoyed by our successes. We dismiss the compliments of friends and family as if they count for nothing, while one criticism can rankle for ever.

The negative bias is so strong that researchers have calculated it takes at least five compliments to soften the effect of one snarky comment.

The world is full of people making mistakes, doing objectionable things, getting our way and needing (we think) to be put right. But there are better ways to make changes than by criticising (a topic for another day). And all of them begin with a smile rather than a frown – literally, or in your tone of voice, or the set of your shoulders, and in your state of mind.

See what happens to your relationships when you give anyone five compliments for every criticism. What counts as a compliment? Any sincere “Thank you!” or “I like how you…” or “Well done!” But also any gesture of respect, attention to another’s point of view, nod of acknowledgement or a smile.

“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways…” In the words of Elizabeth Barrett Browning, we can do much for our own happiness, and sustain our many and varied relationships, by countering that ancient negative bias and actively looking for opportunities to connect and express appreciation.

Anna Powell - www.annapowell.com

PROFESSIONAL

WELLBEING

9

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10

COMMUNITY

WELLBEING

THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF THE TEST VALLEY BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 IS COMING

DEVELOPING COMPETENT, CONFIDENT AND COMPASSIONATE CHILDREN

Following a record-breaking 2018, the Test Valley Business Awards is back for a 15th year; officially launching during a free lunch time event held at the brand new Conference Centre at the University of Southampton Science Park on Friday 15th March 2019.

Hampshire Collegiate School, on the outskirts of Romsey, will hold its next open morning on Tuesday 12th March (9.00am-12.00pm).

During the morning, you will be able to chat to children and staff at the Nursery, Prep School, Senior School and Sixth Form, take part in lessons and see the school’s extensive facilities, which are nestled in 130 acres of beautiful wood and parkland at Embley Park.

Seeing up to 100 local business representatives gather together for networking, light refreshments, and to learn more about the awards’ process for the year, the Test Valley Business Awards 2019 official launch also gives attendees the opportunity to hear from keynote speakers from across the borough, including The Worshipful the Mayor of Test Valley Cllr Ian Carr MBE, Chief Executive Officer of the University of Southampton Science Park Peter Birkett, and Businesswoman of the Year Award winner for 2018 Stephanie Barnett of Pure Human Resources.

You will learn more about the school’s core purpose of helping each child to be their best by equipping them with the competence to succeed academically, the confidence to be their own character and instilling in them a compassion for the world.

Places for the Test Valley Business Awards 2019 launch are free but limited and therefore prior booking is essential for individuals wishing to attend this year’s launch.To book, please visit: https://tvba2019launch. eventbrite.co.uk or see www.tvbawards.org.uk for more information.

Results matter at Hampshire Collegiate School. That is why teaching is exceptional, classes are small, pupils receive a tailored curriculum and every child is monitored and assessed continuously. Last summer, the school achieved its best set of A Level results with nearly half of all pupils going on to Russell Group universities and more pupils attained the top grades at GCSE.

The launch event marks the start of this year’s entry process, open to entries from businesses of any size operating across the Test Valley.

Entering its 15th year, the Test Valley Business Awards – run by a steering group of volunteers – has become a well-established 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.

From class representation student council to leading sailing, skiing and golf programmes, pupils become accustomed to responsibility and accountability and go on to achieve outstanding results. Last November, the school came second at the National Schools Indoor Open Ski Racing Championships. On the water, as part of the school’s expanding sailing and powerboat programme, Hampshire Collegiate School pupils were the fastest team of young sailors in the 2018 Round the Island Race.

Many day pupils use the school’s private home-school minibus service which runs across Hampshire and Wiltshire, with routes covering the Andover villages.Yet the vibrant and friendly boarding house provides an opportunity for students to live, learn and work together on a full time, weekly or flexi boarding basis.

For further information, please visit www.hampshirecs.org.uk or follow us on Twitter (@HampshireCS) and Facebook (www.facebook. com/hampshirecs)

For more information about the Test Valley Business Awards and how to book your free places, please visit: www.tvbawards.org.uk

WIN A MASTERCHEF FINALIST 4-COURSE DINNER AT LOCAL GALA EVENING Andover-based disability charity, Enham Trust, is inviting you to their fundraising Gala Evening on Friday 1st March at historic country house, Penton Park.

The evening is to celebrate the charity’s future, to thank our past and current supporters and to raise vital funds for their health and wellbeing services provided by the Trust.

Wearing cocktail dresses and dinner suits, there will be luxury canapés and award-winning English sparkling wine, courtesy of Hattingley Valley Wines.

The charity has secured some fantastic auction prizes including a wine tour and tasting, gliding lesson, tickets to Newbury Racecourse and a four-course dinner in your own home from MasterChef favourite Juanita Hennessey, with more prizes to announce on the night.

“I am delighted to be supporting this leading disability charity and auctioning a four-course dinner experience. We hope to raise as much as possible on the evening so that disabled people can learn new skills through Enham Trust’s health and wellbeing services.” – Juanita Hennessey This is an evening you won’t to miss, with more prizes on the night. Tickets are available to buy now at www.enhamtrust.org.uk/gala-evening

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GARDEN

Supply and planting large specimen trees and shrubs

ALTERNATIVE VALENTINE'S DAY FLOWERS How on earth did flowers, especially red roses, become symbolic of such an ancient festival as Valentine’s Day in England! The only native flowers which bloom in February are hazel and poplar catkins or snowdrops, none of which is usually associated with romance. This started me thinking about giving alternative flowers to imported red roses as a token of our love, not only because I worry about the very unlovely impact on our climate but also because they completely lack the essential sensuality of fragrance, surely an indispensible part of romance?

There are some garden flowers which cheer us on the gloomiest February day and remind us of the sultry summer days we hope will come. These flowers have to work extra hard to attract the attention of pollinators and most often they do this by widely diffusing their scent on the winter air, especially when they can be positioned to capture elusive sunlight. One of my favourites is the shrub honeysuckle, Lonicera fragrantissima. Even the name rolls voluptuously from the tongue.

The Daphne family offers us even more romantic beauties.

Appropriately named after the beautiful nymph adored by Apollo of Greek mythology, they have soft pink flowers and an intense scent. I am especially fond of D. bholua Jacqueline Postill. If you feel bewitched by your sweetheart, try the witch hazel Hamamelis with its spidery warm yellow blooms and sweet, spicy scent. It is widely planted in the winter garden although it needs acid soil to thrive.

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

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Camellias are the ultimate sensuous flower with their sumptuous pink, white or red blooms. Alexandre Dumas clearly thought so when he named his romantic tragedy The Lady of the Camellias. For hearts we can look to the beautifully marbled leaves of Cyclamen hederifolium.

These are produced in winter after the autumn flowers. If you plant the tubers of these with the nodding flowers of magenta or pink C. coum you can enjoy both blooms and leaves at once.

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.

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So this year why not create your own Valentine’s Day bouquet with some of your own garden flowers?

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GARDEN

Garden

LAWN CARE - MOSS AND SCARIFICATION

A

ccording to Don McLean’s 70’s classic, American Pie, ‘moss grows fat on a rolling stone’. According to my experience, moss grows fat on a winter lawn. Many suffer moss growth in their lawns. It’s easy to spot, lush and green amongst the grass. Thriving as it smothers its less vigorous winter bed partner. The good news is it responds well to treatment and can be brought under control with specialist lawn-care. The bad news is, left untreated it will thrive and it encourages infestation from chafer grubs which can cause a huge amount of lawn damage.

From a distance moss gives the impression of a green, lush lawn. The grass it is smothering struggles to survive, the percentage of moss in the lawn increases and the grass gradually dies away.

Why is this a problem? Wait until the drier summer months and you’ll soon see. Moss thrives in wet conditions, but unlike healthy, well maintained grass, which is far hardier, moss dries out and dies in dry, warm summer weather. At the height of summer, when you want to be enjoying your garden at its best, you are left with brown, scorched areas of lawn and areas of dead moss. Most unsightly and far too late in the season to treat. Spring is the ideal time for dealing with moss issues. Mowing too short, too infrequently or not following the correct mowing height for the time of year can be a big contributor to moss growth. As can incorrect nutrition, not dealing with thatch or compaction and not removing leaves from the lawn regularly. Bare areas should also be dealt with promptly so as not to leave space for moss spores to germinate. A healthy dense grass sward leaves little room for moss or weeds to take up residence.

Killing and removing moss If you already have moss in your lawn this can be treated. Some people try this themselves with lawn-sand but the results can be hit and miss with the grass often being killed at the same time as the moss. Our approach is a liquid treatment combined with a wetting agent that helps penetrate deep into the thick matting of moss. Ensure your lawn has the correct nutritional plan in place, so it’s receiving the right nutrients at the right time of year. Healthy grass, like healthy people, is in a better position to fight off invaders.

Once the moss has been killed it’s time to remove it. This can be hard work over a large area where a petrol-driven scarifier is essential equipment for the job. It’s time consuming and pretty hard work but it’s important to get the dead moss out and will reduce thatch at the same time. Scarification vigorously rakes the surface of the lawn with spinning blades. These blades rip out moss and thatch and open up the surface of the lawn.

Top-dressing It’s often beneficial to top-dress your lawn after scarification. This addition of a organic matter helps to level uneven hollows in the lawn surface, improves soil structure, drainage and helps the general health of the lawn.

Over-seeding to infill The final process is over-seeding - introducing new, healthy grass plants to in-fill the gaps left by the moss that’s been removed, creating a stronger, healthier lawn that’s more capable of dealing with the challenges nature throws at it.

Scarification creates ideal surface conditions for over-seeding. Unlike re-seeding, where the existing vegetation is removed completely and a new seed-bed created for the sowing of a new lawn, over-seeding works with what you already have by adding new grass seeds to your existing lawn and helping to blend areas of weak growth into other areas of your lawn more naturally. It’s also far less labour intensive, uses fewer lawn seeds and is much more economical. It is however really important to deal with any weeds before seeding begins. New grass plants are susceptible to the treatments used to kill lawn weeds. Older, existing lawn grasses are robust enough to withstand these treatments.

Therefore manage the weed issue first and then get new grass plants growing. Remember that once germination begins your new grass seeds need moisture to survive. They won’t be able to manage times without water until they have established roots. If it doesn’t rain then you need to remember to keep them watered for the first few weeks but regular rain is almost guaranteed at this time of year.

Planning ahead is the way to create superb outdoor spaces you can enjoy all year. Now is the time to treat lawn moss problems, if you don’t want to do this yourself call in the professionals and get on top of that moss problem before it’s too late.

Ian Kenyon runs Shrekfeet Lawn and Garden Services. He is always happy to offer friendly, professional advice and help 01264 570111, 07739 789483 www.shrekfeet.com

Come & Visit Our Yard & Display Area

GAZEBOS & ACCESSORIES

GAZEBOS & ACCESSORIES

OpenCometo& Visit Yard & Public &OurTrade Display Area Customers

Live the Dream with a Gazebo from Equestrian Fencing Services

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

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.

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.

pre-prepared base is also included in the price.

With all the benefits of a thatched or timber roofed Gazebo

With all the benefits of a thatched or timber roofed Gazebo

from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true!

from Equestrian Fencing - Dreams really can come true!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

With all the benefits of a thatched or timber roofed Gazebo

pre-prepared base is also included in the price.

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.

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

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

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

WOOD WOOL FIRELIGHTERS £4.65 (Box of 50)

FIRE BRIQUETTES £3.80 (Bag of 12)

reality - it just couldn’t be easier.

All prices subject to VAT and Delivery Fuel Vat at 5% Domestic rate or 20% Business rate

reality - it just couldn’t be easier.

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

All gazebos from Equestrian Fencing Services are made

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

KINDLING £2.95 (each)

BIRCH NETS £5.95 (each)

Equestrian Fencing Services offer an extensive range of

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

16

CULTURE gardeners, collectors and diplomats. Stylish Rosie Tatham, Winchester resident, artist and host for the week, describes how her parents built Casa Rosa to be filled with light and beauty. The house sits in it own orchards and gardens and is provided with comfort, beauty and technology, tennis court and not 1, but 2 pools.

ARTISTS BLOSSOM IN SPRING IN THE PICTURESQUE AXARQUIA A talented, local artist teaches an exciting new course in Spain this March. Kate Measham, trained at Winchester School of Art, now inspires others with classes in west Hampshire while selling her beautiful work through the Josie Eastwood Gallery in Longstock.

In October 2018, Kate taught Autumn Light in Andalucia at Casa Rosa near Periana, in the hills between Granada and Malaga.

We associate autumn more with mist than brilliance in Britain, but Andalucian light is

TEST VALLEY VILLAGES LECTURE SERIES: A LIFE IN CRIME

SPEAKER: JUDGE CHRISTOPHER LEE QC Christopher Lee spent his working life as a barrister in the criminal courts in Hampshire.

He then worked all over the country as a Q.C., before returning to Hampshire when he was made a circuit judge.

He will talk about some of the cases he prosecuted, defended and tried as well as touching on some of the wider issues facing the criminal justice system today. These include whether judges are out of touch, and whether the police are worthy of our trust.

All are welcome. Entry £5 to include a drink.

Full time students free. This event will be held at 8pm on Wednesday 20th February 2019 at St Mary’s Church Broughton.

bright all year round, especially in Autumn and Spring, and stimulating to painters. The views of - and from - the exquisite Casa Rosa were “irresistible stimulation to my students whose work was exciting and whose progress startling” said Kate.

The Spring course of 2019 is titled Andalucia, Spring Flowers and Rural Spain. In this unspoilt area, growing wild and unaided are peonies, orchids, narcissi, iris, anemone, lavender and many more. In Autumn the pomegranate orchards and citrus trees will again excite artists on a painting course and an exciting, new sculpture course.

Casa Rosa is a stunning country mansion, built by an inspiring family of artists,

TEST VALLEY ARTS FOUNDATION SPONSORS NEW PRODUCTION – IT HAPPENED IN HAMPSHIRE

Fabulous cook Jessica Tatham, of Rad.ish food and grand daughter of the creators of Casa Rosa, grew up in Winchester and trained at Ballymaloe in Ireland. Jessica produces astonishingly delicious and beautiful meals, emphasising health and well being.

For more information call: 01980 863155 www.artdrawpaint.com www.rad-ish.co.uk www.casarosaestate.eu

It Happened in Hampshire is a light-hearted romp, performed by 3 professional actors, looking at just some of Hampshire’s long and very varied history. It will include: • Alfred versus Guthrum the Dane in the Great Wessex Bake Off • A very civil civil war • Watch Supernurse – Hampshire’s very own superhero – defeat grime • A starring role for an iceberg • Discover the secret of modification triple XXX • And much more As part of TVAF’s mission, to engage the community with the Arts, this play is being performed in several primary and secondary schools in Andover during the first 2 weeks of February; these performances would not be possible without the sponsorship from BeWiser, Hampshire County Council and Test Valley Borough Council.

Test Valley Arts Foundation (TVAF) are delighted to be sponsoring a play written by award winning (Terence Rattigan Society) local playwright Roy Chatfield. Roy’s previous work in 2016, And Now We Tell Our Tale, brought Andover’s history to life and has now been performed three times at The Lights.

Other support has come from The Lights, Andover who are putting on a performance on Tuesday 5 February at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from The Lights Box Office: www. thelights.org.uk/booking For further information please visit our webpage: www.testvalleyarts.org or Facebook page.

GARDEN

CULTURE

SPRING FLOWERS IN THE MOUNTAINS OF AXARQUIA

Mature instant hedges that can be planted any time of year Available in beech, hornbeam and privet Grown, trimmed and sold at 1.5 and 1.8 metres high As used by leading landscape architects

Call Trevor on 07860 560868 info@hampshirehedges.co.uk www.hampshirehedges.co.uk

hglmltd@gmail.com www.hampshiregardenandlandmanagement.co.uk

ART COURSE IN CASA ROSA, PERIANA, IN SOUTHERN SPAIN

21ST - 28TH MARCH 2019 FULL BOARD, ART CLASSES AND ENSUITE ROOMS £1,550/PERSON (LESS IF YOU SHARE A ROOM) ARTISTS - FROM BEGINNER TO EXPERT, WILL ENJOY THIS CHALLENGE.

Paint the hills and blossoming orchards of Andalucia, with its clear, Spring light and astonishing mountainscapes. Tutor and artist, Kate Measham, has taught in Hampshire and Zakynthos for over 10 years. Meals cooked by talented chef, Jessica Tatham.

Local wine and produce used.

For more information call: 01980 863155 www.casarosaestate.eu/art-course-malaga www.artdrawpaint.com

17

18

FEATURE

LITERARY DAYS

AT PITTLEWORTH MANOR

W

hat is it about the English country house that fascinates? Beauty? The desire to understand a different life? but most of all, surely, it is stories: extraordinary stories of real country houses and their occupants and the stories that they have inspired.

Pemberley, Manderley,Thornfield, Brideshead: these houses are not backdrops but central characters in some of the most famous novels of English literature.

When I was six years old, I came to live at Pittleworth Manor, small but ancient, in the heart of the Test Valley.The old house (full of its own stories) shaped much of my reading. I read Jane Eyre and absolutely refused to go up to the attics alone after dark until my teens. I read Alison Uttley’s A Traveller in Time and never quite lost the hope that I might open a door in Pittleworth and be confronted with a scene from the house’s past. And, of course, I learned the thrill and fear of lying in bed at night and hearing the creak that might be a step on the stair.

A Manor of Reading, was born from this sense of thrill: the realisation that reading novels about country houses within a country house could set your imagination and your understanding spinning. I wanted to create an immersive reading experience.What can we learn about atmosphere? What aspects of country house life do we tend to overlook in more conventional and academic readings of novels?

I read History at Oxford and did graduate work in English literature at King’s, London and the University of Southampton, where I gained my PhD. I had the wonderful experience of teaching undergraduates. (I would have loved to pursue academic life but I am also a farmer and a mother: something had to give).

One of the things that was giving was reading time and I missed the excitement of discussion in seminars. I know I am not alone; there are so many of us who love reading, yet have less and less

time to read, let alone discuss books.Was it possible to create a day of literary discussion in which one could learn, laugh and rediscover without setting homework or reading lists? I reckoned it was. So, last November, eleven brave volunteers gathered around my dining room table to test the theory. I thought it might be more realistic for busy bookworms to take one day out, ‘me time’, occasionally, to discuss old favourites and discover a few new books, rather than daily devoting an hour or so they didn’t have to someone else’s reading list.

And, because it was ‘me time’, it must feel like a treat. I love conferences and seminars but not coffee tasting like weedkiller, wine simultaneously threatening to bore through tooth enamel and plastic cup, or suspicious-looking sandwiches. It’s hard to get into the frame of mind to discuss gothic fiction under the glare of strip lighting.

So literary days at Pittleworth would be based around good books, good food and good conversation.The fire would roar, except in summer when, if the sun is shining, we might sit out under the yew tree with a glass of pimms.

That first literary day, we talked, we argued, we read aloud, shared stories (and, much to the chagrin of my children, we ate all the chocolate meringues).The day was exactly what I hoped it would be.There will be more.Would you be interested?

You need bring nothing but enthusiasm for books (though all battered copies of old favourites are welcome), also an enthusiasm for chocolate meringues and their ilk would be helpful.

For more information, please contact Dr Esther Fernandez-Llorente Tel: 01794 301268 www.pittleworthmanor.co.uk

01794 301268

Pittleworth Manor, a Tudor manor house, just outside of Stockbridge

The Woman in White, Love in a Cold Climate, Atonement:

Northanger Abbey, Jane Eyre and Rebecca:

www.pittleworthmanor.co.uk

20

FEATURE

THE OWL AND THE PUSSY CAT S tockbridge has always had a special place in my heart. I grew up here and, as a Marsh Court school girl, spent many happy years living and playing in the town. I’ve long since dreamed of having a shop on the High Street and, like many others, I’ve always loved ‘The Owl and the Pussycat’.

Through the years it’s become my ‘go-to’ for new born gifts especially, but for gifts and cards for all the family too. I am thrilled that this special shop is now a new member of our family and my wonderful mother Judie and I intend to love and nurture it as one of our own.

We want to keep many of the traditions of the shop whilst combining a fresh, new twist as well. Deliveries are turning up daily with the most beautiful baby and children’s clothes, toys and gifts and a menagerie of Jelly Cats now adorn the shelves!

The shop smells amazing too as our new range of candles and room diffusers has arrived to enhance our selection of gifts and, together with beautiful and unique cards and wrap, you’ll be able to find the perfect gift for any birthday,Valentine or Mother’s Day.

We also own a ‘live-in care’ agency called Access Care, which is in its 25th year of operation. Access recruits wonderful, professional carers to live with people in their own homes, helping with everything from companionship and housekeeping, to personal care.The care agency has taught us the values of hard work and determination as well as the importance of excellent customer service.The shop is a very different business and we are excited to embrace the opportunity to let our creative flair shine!

The direction of the shop’s new journey with us will become clear over time, but we know we wish to retain many of the wonderful products that her customers love.

We have much love and respect for Stockbridge and can’t wait to become a part of the retail community and work with the other retailers to continue to make Stockbridge a wonderful location for people to visit. And so, as the shop turns a page of its book to start a new chapter, we hope you will join us on this adventure.

We aim to make each visit to our shop a charming experience and to keep the magic of ‘The Owl and the Pussycat’ very much alive. Please do stop by and say hello.

Tiggy & Judie x

22

RETAIL

MARKET SQUARE

Miracca & Browne

Moda Rosa

Wickham Jewellery

Echo line earrings in yellow gold with mixed gemstones - £1,400 Strawberry House, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HF Tel: 01264 810075 | hello@miraccabrowne.com

Paule Ka - New spring collection 2019. 35 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 733277 | www.modarosa.co.uk

Ladies Tag Heuer Aquaracer diamond face and bezel, mother of pearl face, boxed with certification, reduced price - £900 Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

Andrew Smith & Son - Auctioneers

Mokaya Cocoa

Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

Fine Art, Antiques, Interiors & Collectables Tues 5th Feb. Monthly General Antiques & Interiors Sale Sat 16th Feb Tel: 01962 735988 | www.andrewsmithandson.com

Treat your Valentine to the finest Belgian chocolate this February.

High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HF. Tel: 01264 811440 | Mokaya Cocoa Stockbridge

Kiln Dried Hardwood Logs from £150 + VAT and delivery charge.

High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath Tel: 01329 835100 | www.equestrianfencing.com

Labels Dress Agency

Wickham Jewellery

TLovell Wedding Photography

Ladies Mulberry Angelica Bag - £295 Jane Shilstone Boots - £28 The Old Forge, Brook Street, Bishop's Waltham, SO21 1AX Tel: 01489 896515 | www.labelsdressagency.co.uk

Heart shaped necklace, 4ct diamonds in total and 18ct gold - £4,000 Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

Wedding packages starting from £350.00 10% discount on any full wedding package, placed by the end of February tlovellphotography@gmail.com | www.tlovellphotography.com

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

N FINE ART AUCTION EERS & VALUERS

FINE ART, ANTIQUES, INTERIORS & COLLECTABLES Tuesday 5th February

Viewing: Thursday 31st - 2 - 5pm, Friday 1st - 10am - 5pm, Saturday 2nd - 10am - 2pm, Monday 4th - 10am - 5pm Morning of sale 8.30am

MONTHLY ANTIQUES & INTERIORS AUCTION Saturday 16th February Commencing 10am

Viewing: Friday 15th 10am - 7pm - Morning of sale 8.30am

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

23

24

FEATURE

HAMPSHIRE MUM:

DOGGY PADDLE

BY SANDRA PAGAN

I

t is the time of year for long country walks with family and

BY SANDRA PAGAN

friends. Lots of chatter en route to chilling in a country pub, a chance to catch up and share memories, or in our case make some new ones…

Despite a rocky start, our friend’s elegant Vizsla hound now happily ignores the Pagan Pup and maturely concentrates on fetching his ball from wherever it falls.The Pagan Pup on the other hand, shows no signs of growing up much like the other males in the Pagan household, - spending his time engaged in happy disorder and rebellion; well he is a Spaniel after all.

As our respective families grow older, things obviously change with girlfriends and boyfriends now accompanying our offspring.

It's wonderful to see young people flying various nests and living their own lives and for us to be a part of it, in some small way.

On this peaceful day, we ambled down the lane and out into the beauty that surrounds our Market Town. All was tranquil at first, but then things turn for the worse.The Vizsla was, as always, dutifully retrieving, but the Pagan pup was having none of this.

Having been so well behaved he could bare it no longer and decided that a swim was required. At the first sign of H2O he was in! An elegant plunge and a couple of lengths of the muddy stream seemed to suffice and then… there he was, stuck.

As the elegant and pristine Vizsla looked disapprovingly down, the Pagan Pup could only manage to haul half his body (aided by spread-eagled front legs) onto the steep bank. I was suddenly aware that we were all just staring down at the Pagan Pup and no one, (it should have been me I know), aided his exit. So started the embarrassed calling ritual, “Come on you can do it good boy”.

Fortunately, an able ex-forces member of our party - straddled the slippery bank and hauled the self-conscious Pagan Pup unceremoniously from the river by the scruff of his neck.

Job done.

Now, you would think that would have been sufficiently embarrassing for a gun dog but no, as the river widened so did his desire for adventure.While his canine companion was on ‘fetch’ number 230 the Pagan Pup had spied ducks on the opposite bank.

With an elegant dive, he was in and set off across the flowing river like an Olympian. A single bound found him out of the river and in to the small adjacent pond.The ducks had him sussed and took flight immediately, so the Pagan Pup did a couple of laps so as not to loose face and tried to climb out… and yet again, stuck.

The ex-forces friends temper was now somewhat frayed, “Come on get out of there!”

We all gathered on the waters edge to offer calls of encouragement, but then Pagan pup started yelping. Something was clearly not right. I gazed hopefully in the direction of the husband but couldn’t catch his eye, he’d clearly done enough dog rescuing for one day.

We continued to call encouragingly but to no avail, the yelping got worse. Clearly there was nothing for it I took off my coat rolled my sleeves up – for some reason - and debated whether the well-known outdoor clothing brand I was wearing would be really up to the task. I was just about to set off across the river when, “Mum no. Don’t be daft you’re too old, I’ll go” Despite my strong urge to prove him wrong all I could was watch as Star I disappeared back along the path reappearing on the far bank.The Pagan Pup had got a hind leg caught somehow, so Star I took the plunge and set him free. As he staggered free of the muddy pond, the Pagan Pup swam heroically back across the river to face our ex-forces friends wrath.

With a gaggle of Sunday tourists approaching, our party moved off as if nothing had happened.This left me with a bedraggled and suddenly shivery Pagan Pup and Star I, who was now squelching toward me wet from the knee down. I assured him I was confident that Timberland boots were designed for such eventualities and would be fine after a night on the radiator.

A kind friend gave us a lift home and after a quick blow dry the Pagan Pup appeared suitably coiffured and curled up on the sofa.

Star I’s boots dripped and steamed on the radiator as we retired to the pub.

Perfect!

� WHITE HART

511/ll,

NOW OPEN COME AND JOIN US

PUB, DINING, BEDROOMS, GARDEN

HIGH STREET, STOCKBRIDGE, HAMPSHIRE, 5020 6HF TEL: 01264 810663 I WWW.WHITEHARTSTOCKBRIDGE.CO.UK I WHITEHART.STOCKBRIDGE(@FULLERS.CO.UK I] /TheWhiteHartStockbridge

W (@WhiteHartStock � (@WhiteHart.Stockbridge

26

ENTERTAIMENT Vaughan Williams, Elgar and Parry, while the summer saw his sixth series of Chord of the Week. The World this Weekend marked the centenary of the Armistice with an Owen Norris interview. He made his 26th appearance on Radio 3's Building a Library in October.

His complete recordings of the songs of Sir William Sterndale Bennett will shortly appear on EM Records. He will complete his recordings of the Songs of Sir Arthur Sullivan (Sterndale Bennett's pupil) with a third disc on the Chandos label next Spring. He has just recorded virtuoso rewrites of Mozart Piano Concertos from 1827 for Hyperion.

STOCKBRIDGE MUSIC HAS A NEW PATRON Professor David Owen Norris has very kindly agreed to accept our invitation to become Patron of Stockbridge Music (SM).

David is a distinguished professor of music and an outstanding pianist who performs

STOCKBRIDGE MUSIC FIRST CONCERT OF 2019 SEASON: KOSMOS

with irresistible enthusiasm. He supported the early days of Stockbridge Music by giving three memorable concerts using his 1828 Broadwood Concert Piano. Each concert was received with great enthusiasm by large audiences.

He is often seen on television, most recently this autumn in programmes about Holst,

ALL THAT SWING: A CLASS ACT FOR A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE

David has expressed a wish to perform in the magnificent Hurford Hall in the Town Hall in Stockbridge. Therefore we will be introducing the piano to this venue for the first time which is very exciting indeed. His Piano Trio will be performing on Friday 22nd November 2019 and on this occasion he will be performing on a Steinway Baby Grand piano loaned to SM for this concert by a member of SM. www.stockbridgemusic.uk With over 30 years performing and singing experience, Mark can re-create classic songs from the likes of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett and many more, as well as reworks as epitomised by the likes of Michael Buble and Robbie Williams.

Special requests and additional artists (usually an additional female singer will be featured) will be accommodated whenever possible. He also includes some saxophone to enhance the performance!

Last season, Kosmos mesmerised us with their Internationally acclaimed passionate world music. Critics down the years have variously described Kosmos performances as revelatory, refreshing, exciting and so on.

James Montgomery added: “Dazzling!. These are truly exceptionally gifted classically trained instrumentalists who have used their talent to revolutionary effect. Not surprising that Kosmos is booked all over the world”.

This concert is sponsored by: A Member of SM in support of their continued success This concert will be held on Friday 22 March at 7.30pm. St Peter’s Church, Stockbridge Tickets (£14) now available from: www.jumblebee.co.uk/stockbridgemusic Local Box Offices will open one month prior to the concerts

All That Swing is a class act that will ensure your guests will enjoy a memorable experience. We will go the extra mile to personalise the performance to suit the mood/occasion/client.

Mark, the man who fronts All That Swing, has worked in a multitude of bands covering a wide range of genres. His vast experience of performing and fronting bands has included society weddings, big outdoor festivals, largescale charity balls as well as a range of venues, clubs and other more intimate private events.

All That Swing are keen to entertain at pubs, clubs and venues too. We can offer these at a significantly discounted rate as they are good for prompting private function work in the future. If you would prefer a rocking party band (www.Up2NoGood.co.uk) or a big jazz band (www.IJOBigBand.co.uk) we can help with that too!

Call Mark to book a date on 07721 397211 or email davtrav175@gmail.com www.allthatswing.co.uk

HOME

OLGA AT THE THEATRE

ENTERTAINMENT

No Man’s Land

TWO PLAYS ABOUT THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN WW1

6-16 FEB @ 7.30PM & SUN 10 @ 2.30PM (NO PERF 11 FEB)

18-23 FEB @7.30PM

25 FEB-2 MAR @ 7.30PM

6-16 MAR @ 7.30PM & SUN 10 @ 2.30PM (NO PERF 11 MAR)

L THAT AL

Moores Maintenance S e rv i c e s

www.mooresmaintenance.co.uk

RETRO, RAT PACK & BIG BAND SWING SONGS Creating classic songs from the likes of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and many more including reworks as epitomised by Michael Buble and Robbie Williams From the 'main attraction' at prestige functions and Balls to a smooth jazzy backdrop at a classy evening cocktail bar or pub/restaurant

T: 07721 397211 www.allthatswing.co.uk

•

Te l: 01264 362378 Te l: 07899 914960

info@mooresmaintenance.co.uk

For that perfect home decorating paint finish 100’s of local references speak for themselves, review us on Checkatrade!

For all aspects of decorating…

Moores Maintenance S e rv i c e s

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

For that perfect home decor paint finish 100’s of local references speak for themselves, review us on Checkatrade!

For all aspects of decorating…

 Friendly, Professional; reliable and tidy  Completely safe, gentle cleaning system  No fumes, no mess, no bother  Removes grease, fat and burnt on carbon deposits from: • Ovens • Filters • Hobs • Grills • BBQs • Ranges • Extractors • Microwaves • AGAs

Call today to book your spring clean T: 0800 840 7127 • M: 07528 524769 www.ovenclean.com

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EDUCATION

HOME

GODOLPHIN DROPS ENTRANCE EXAMS FOR THEIR PREP PUPILS Starting a new senior school is a big step and can be a daunting experience. This is without the stress of the exams to get you there.

In a bid to reduce sustained pressure on pupils and parents, Godolphin School, Salisbury, has dropped the requirement of an Entrance Exam for their Year 6 Prep pupils, who join in either Year 4 or Year 5, moving up to Godolphin Senior School.

Head of Godolphin Prep, Julia Miller and George Budd, Academic Deputy, are confident that the broad curriculum and regular monitoring and reporting already in place are rigorous enough to ensure that Godolphin Prep girls thrive in the Senior School.

Julia Miller says, “We are concerned about girls’ mental health and wellbeing and we believe this move will help us to reduce unnecessary testing and the pressure of tutoring. Our girls already have access to all facilities across the Godolphin site so are familiar with IT suites, Science Labs, Performing Arts Centre and the Art Block. These are just some of the benefits of being part of the whole Godolphin community.”

For further information, please contact Head of Admissions, Corinna Florence Florencec@godolphin.wilts.sch.uk or telephone 01722 430545

Choosing your residential property refurbishment partner is a big decision. We aim to ensure that the refurbishment of your home centres around you and your individual needs.

With our extensive range of services, you can be sure we have plenty of options for you.

• Innovative designs to maximise your living space • A beautiful end result through quality workmanship

• Personal service where solutions are tailored to your requirements • Complete transparency in service and pricing

• Ongoing customer care as well as after care, once the work has been completed

info@morrisparker.co.uk • www.morrisparker.co.uk

EDUCATION

NURSERY, PREP, SENIOR, SIXTH FORM CO-ED, 2-18, DAY & BOARDING

Open Morning

Tuesday 12th March 9.00am-12.00pm

Competent, confident and compassionate individuals

www.hampshirecs.org.uk

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30

COMMUNITY

HOME Working in the thriving world of the UK film industry for almost a decade, Lucia has been involved in well over 100 productions, resulting in credits on major blockbusters including Spectre, Skyfall and, much to the delight of her children, a few of the Harry Potter films.

“It’s a bizarre, slightly surreal experience to see your name float up a cinema screen” she smiles “And I have a wand box with my name on it in Ollivanders – a Potter devotee will understand.”

LOCAL AUTHOR AND FORUM CONTRIBUTOR RELEASES FIRST NOVEL

Born and raised in Penton, Lucia went both to school and college in Andover and, apart from a brief residency elsewhere, has largely lived her life in rural Hampshire.

A mad spaniel owner, (or should that be owner of mad spaniels?), one of our regular contributors is Lucia Foster-Found – author of The Virgin Beater, Manners Maketh White Van Man, All I Want for Christmas etc.

A big fan of our fantastic countryside with a love of country pursuits, Lucia’s happy to pluck a pheasant, gut a fish and cook them both – she likes to think that in a post-apocalyptic landscape, her family wouldn’t starve..

A cancer survivor, Lucia spent 15 months living in a small caravan, whilst undergoing surgery and radiotherapy. Referring to this period as “interesting”, Lucia says the experience has naturally given her a huge appreciation of the NHS, but also a whole slew of luxuries that might seem mundane in our privileged society; drinking water from the tap, taking more than two strides indoors, a comfy sofa - to name a few.

“It might sound clichéd, but every day I really am thankful for being here.”

Lucia’s first novel “Unforgotten” is available to buy on Amazon Kindle – paperback soon. Set in glorious countryside, it’s a tale of village life, mild witchcraft and a ghostly Roman presence.

(Contains adult themes and cooking..) www.luciafosterfound.com

D

DON S DOORS

GARAGE DOOR SOLUTIONS We supply and install all leading manufacturers of garage doors and in a wide selection of styles;

Up & Over • Side Hinged • Automated Insulated Roller • Timber • Sectional Call 02380 600027 to arrange a free no obligation survey and quote Unit 9 & 10, Vicarage Farm Business Park, Winchester Road, Fair Oak, Eastleigh, SO50 7HD sales@donsgaragedoors.co.uk • www.donsgaragedoors.co.uk

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HOME

Fabulous Clean Carpets very reasonable prices, and courteous friendly SUPER-FAST 15 MINUTES DRYING service from people you can trust in your home

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• Hassle free 24/7 ear Stockbridge unlimited access Forum Reader, Value with conscious local residents • Secure alarm love a great deal. & CCTV If you need your carpets cleaned and are looking for an • Range of unit sizes award-winning company who will arrive on time, will be courteous, respectful and above • Commercial or all trustworthy Private use -- then you’re invited to take advantage of one of the three • Convenient extraordinarylocation value, high quality, carpet and upholstery cleaning dealsterm we’re offering • Short or long new customers this month -- because we want to give • Undercover unloading you the chance to get to know our service and to find how • Friendly & family runout impressively new, fresh and

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£97

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34

CHURCH SERVICES

Crawley

St. Mary's Sunday 3 10.00 Family Communion Sunday 10 10.00 Morning Worship Sunday 17 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 24 10.00 4th Sunday Worship

with Sunday School

Goodworth Clatford St Peter's

Bossington St. James

Sunday 3 09.30 Holy Communion

Broughton St. Mary's

Sunday 3 08.00 Holy Communion Bible Uncovered Sunday 10 09.30 Holy Communion Sunday 17 08.00 Holy Communion 09.30 Family Service Sunday 24 09.30 Family Communion

Chilbolton

St. Mary the Less Sunday 3 10.00 Family Service Sunday 10 10.00 Morning Prayer Sunday 17 10.00 Family Communion Sunday 24 16.00 Evening Prayer

at Pentons,Village

Street, Chilbolton,

SO20 6BE

Sunday 3 08.00 Said Holy Communion 11.00 Family Service Sunday 10 11.00 Morning Worship Sunday 17 11.00 Matins Sunday 24 11.00 Holy Communion

Houghton

All Saint's Church Sunday 10 09.30 Holy Communion Sunday 24 18.00 Evensong

King's Somborne Methodist Church

Sunday 3 10.30 Morning Worship Sunday 10 10.30 Morning Worship Sunday 17 10.30 Morning Worship 15.30 Messy Church Sunday 24 10.30 Morning Worship

King's Somborne

St. Peter & St. Paul Sunday 3 10.00 Parish Communion Sunday 10 08.00 Holy Communion 10.00 Family Service

Sunday 17 10.00 Parish Communion Sunday 24 08.00 Holy Communion 10.00 Matins 18.00 ALiVE All

Age Worship Wednesday 2 & 20 10.15 Holy Communion

Sunday 10 10.00 Joint Service led by

Sparsholt School Sunday 17 10.00 Matins Sunday 24 10.00 Family Communion

Leckford

Old St. Peter

St Nicholas Sunday 3 08.00 Said Holy Communion Sunday 17 18.00 Evensong

Littleton

St. Catherine's Sunday 3 16.00 Cafe Church in

Church Room Sunday 10 10.00 Family Communion Sunday 17 10.00 Morning Worship 18.00 Peace & Wholeness Sunday 24 10.00 Family Communion

Longstock St. Mary

Sunday 10 09.30 All Age Worship Sunday 17 09.30 Morning Worship Sunday 24 09.15 Parish Communion

Mottisfont

St. Andrew's Sunday 10 11.00 Messy Church Club Sunday 17 09.30 Holy Communion Sunday 24 11.00 Family Communion

Sparsholt

St. Stephen's Sunday 3 08.00 Holy Communion

Stockbridge Sunday 17 08.00 Said Holy Communion

Stockbridge St. Peter

Sunday 3 10.45 Mattins Sunday 10 10.45 Parish Communion Sunday 17 10.15 All Age Worship Sunday 24 10.45 Parish Communion

Stockbridge

St. Thomas More

(Catholic)

Every Sunday 09.00 Mass

Wherwell

St. Peter & Holy Cross Sunday 3 10.00 Holy Communion Sunday 10 18.00 Benefice Evensong

(Please contact the

Church Wardens

or the Benefice

Office for details

of venue t: 01962 880845) Sunday 17 10.00 Family Service Sunday 24 08.00 Holy Communion