Test Valley Forum Issue 162 February 2022 by Mark Tubb

Forum

ISSUE 162 FEBRUARY 2022

TEST VALLEY

Life in your Community

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

GOING, GOING... GONG

FEBRUARY NEWS & EVENTS

LOOKING AFTER YOUR HEALTH

Delicious Macarons

By Lucia Foster-Found

All the local news and events for the local area

Six top tips for Mens Health

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

Commercial properties in the Test Valley STOCKBRIDGE

STOCKBRIDGE

TOET L

A first floor office available in this beautifully restored building.

A first floor office room in a period building.

WHITCHURCH

ANDOVER

R FOALE S

An interesting freehold building close to the center of Whitchurch. 974.2 sq ft Suitable for retail/office use.

A retail and residential investment producing £21,800 pa.

AMPFIELD

STOCKBRIDGE

T D LE REE G A

High quality office within a Grade II Listed Barn conversion. With Car Parking.

www.myddeltonmajor.co.uk

TOET L

First floor offices available from April 2022. With car parking.

Tel: 01264 316000

TEST VALLEY FORUM FEBRUARY 2022

CONTENTS 02 Property Management

Buying, selling, letting? Find local estate agents and property management services

Going, Going.. Gong By Lucia Foster-Found

Looking after your health and yourself!

Home

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

04 Feature

06 Wellbeing

Food & Drink

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

23 Professional Services

09 Garden

From photographers to solicitors - every professional service you need

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

Make your garden dream come true

Contributors

Education

Lucia Foster-Found www. luciafosterfound.com

Find local schools and educational experts

Retail

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

Get in Touch Forum Publications Offices Unit 8A, Shelf House, New Farm Road,

Alresford, SO24 9QH Tel: 01962 735137 www.forumpublications.co.uk

14 Leisure & Entertainment Discover local events and days out or in

16 Recipe of the Month

Show your love this Valentine's Day with these delicious Macarons.

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. 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. Test Valley Forum magazine content does not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or recommendations of its creators and any reliance upon its content is taken at the user’s sole risk. Adverts designed by Forum Publications remain the magazine's legal ownership. Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household © Forum Publications Ltd, 2022

FEATURE

Going, Going….. Gong © LUCIA FOSTER-FOUND 2022

WWW.LUCIAFOSTERFOUND.COM

“Who’ll give me fifty pounds? Twenty pounds then, surely. Thank-you sir. Twenty, twenty two… Oh wait, fifty pounds now on the internet, sixty, seventy – fighting it out - eighty-five pounds, are we all done at eighty-fiiiyve? Going once. Twice.” Bang, the gavel went down. Disgruntled mutterings behind her; “There were better bargains at auctions before they went online and on the telly.” She turned around to see who was talking and the hem of her coat swept a small ornament onto the floor. In the poorly timed lull of background chatter, the tinkle of breaking porcelain was huge. The auctioneer drily commented “Madam, the idea is to buy things, not break things” to the general amusement of all. “So sorry!” Scarlet-faced and apologetic, she scrambled to pick up the pieces, grovelling around the feet of onlookers and under tables. Mortifying. She’d been worried that by scratching her nose or touching an earlobe she’d inadvertently bid on something hideously expensive. Or worse, something expensive and hideous. But this was more dreadful. And the coat, which was to blame, was not even warm enough for the auction room’s chill. Slinking off to the back, she tried to look inconspicuous. Eventually it was over and Himself came and found her. Shivering, she moaned “It’s like a meat locker in here, albeit somewhat bizarrely furnished. Freezing. No one mentions that on Antiques Road Trip. I think I‘m mildly hypothermic and… ” “And very grumpy.” Chuckling, he cut her off mid moan, “Don’t worry, Darling, we’ll be going, going, gone, ha ha, in a moment.” At home, she cheered up, warmed up and dished lunch up, whilst Himself pored over his wins. “Didn’t know this was in here. I bought the lot for the postcard albums.” Delving into a box he produced a brass dinner gong and struck it with the little mallet. BONGBONGBONG!! “Very ‘luncheon is served m’lord’. What fun!” “My mother could have done with that. Dad vanished every time his meal appeared on the table. ‘Where’s that man!’ she’d say. Drove her nuts.” “Well, we don’t need it.” Himself said airily “Also it seems we have acquired a bread maker along with the strimmer that I was really after. Wonder what happened to the one we had. I do love freshly baked bread.”

They both loved freshly baked bread. Almost as much as freshly baked bread loved their love handles.. Should she confess that, some time back, she’d managed to offload the breadmaker; going, going, gone.. to a charity shop? But Himself was fondly recollecting “Remember that sun-dried tomato loaf you left to cool on the worktop? Disappeared. We had to feel each of the dog’s tummies to find out who’d pinched it.” “I do. It was the Labrador. Well it would be. Not so much as a crumb left as evidence. Who was it said Labradors were an intelligent stomach on four legs?” She finished plating up the meal and turned to ask. The room was empty. Just as the meal was served, Himself had gone. No going, going… Simply gone. She called out “Darling?” Unbelievable. “Where’s that man!” She caught her reflection in the kitchen window and sighed. “Mirror mirror on the wall, I’ve become my mother after all.” But as she moved to go find him, she tripped over the dogs milling around her feet. The room? Not as empty as she’d thought… “So, do I risk leaving you two alone in here? Mmnn..” The spaniels looked up at her and wagged their tails in encouragement. “To be fair, you’re not the criminal mastermind the Labrador was.” One gave a little ‘parp’ and sniffed its own bottom in surprise, as if to prove the point. “And not as tall, although those telescopic necks of yours - useful for assailing the not-so-dizzy heights of the worktop.” Shaking her head suspiciously at them, they looked in another direction, feigning innocence. “And you’d be oh-so-sorry once the red mist had lifted and all that was left were empty plates.” Furtively, they gave each other a guilty sideways glance. “Aha! That’s what I thought.” She stroked the spaniels’ silky heads and had an inspired idea. Rummaging in the auction box, she took out the dusty item. BONGBONGBONG!! “Luncheon is served m’lord! Come and get it before it’s going, going, gone… to the dogs.”

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WELLBEING / COMMUNITY Six Top Tips for Mens Health

Sometimes the cause is difficult to detect and may be related to tension in the pelvic floor or lower abdomen, and can also be anxiety or depression related. If all underlying conditions have been ruled out, symptoms may improve with some pelvic floor stretching and strengthening. Have a look at Dr Bri’s Vibrant Pelvic Health on You Tube and search for the men’s health related content, in particular this video guide here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyGEVPuumtk A quarter of all men said they wouldn’t talk to anyone about their mental health, siting embarrassment, appearance of weakness, or the negative stigma associated with it, as the top reasons. Most men would choose their partner as their confidante, but if this is not possible, here are the top charities dedicated to men’s health that I would recommend: Baggy Trousers, CALM, Blue Ribbon Foundation and Prostate Cancer UK.

Having recently been so focused on women’s health, this month it’s all about the guys! Statistically men are less likely to lead healthy lives, and are more likely to smoke, drink and have heart and obesity related conditions. 1 in 5 will die before the age of 65. For the male population the main cause of death is heart disease, closely followed by cancer, but in the under 45’s it is, quite shockingly, suicide. Fortunately men’s health is increasingly in the spot light, and awareness is being driven through the media with events such as Movember, International Men’s Day and Men’s Health Week. Take action now to improve your health and reduce your risk of premature illness or death. It’s never too late, just start where you are. My top 6 tips for improving men’s health are: 1. Physical fitness. Your healthy lifespan is directly related to the level of activity you do. It really doesn’t matter what you do, just do some form of cardio and strengthening fitness daily. It could be anything from gardening, walking, cycling, dancing, swimming, competitive sports or DIY. Ensure regular strengthening activities to maintain muscle mass and testosterone levels. If you are struggling to keep fit due to pain or injury, then please do get in touch, we can guide you with your recovery and provide rehab exercise programs. 2. Mental fitness. Your mind is as important as your body, keep it fit with regular socialising, board games and stimulating activities, use mediation or mindfulness to relax, and if you are feeling frequently low, flat, unmotivated, have anxious or harmful thoughts, speak to someone. Check out the awesome charities below… 3. Ensure daily exposure to sunlight, especially first thing in the morning. It sets the natural rhythms of your body for the rest of the day. Including helping you sleep better. 4. Sleep better! Prioritise sleep. You need at least 8 hours. Start your wind down at least an hour before bed, have a warm bath or shower, then turn off any blue light sources, such as daylight bulbs and screens, light the fire or a candle. Avoid caffeine after midday and don’t eat just before bed. 5. Check your bits. Regularly check your testicles for lumps and bumps and stay alert to any changes in bowel function, urination, erection or ejaculation. Night time urination and ‘stop-start’ pee could be a sign of an enlarged prostate. But the good news is that ejaculating a couple of times a week helps reduce prostate cancer and stress! 6. Eat a fresh whole-food diet, cooking from scratch whenever possible. Aim for plenty of heart-healthy, antioxidant rich, colourful fruit and veg and avoid beige food! Eat plenty of organic animal or plant-based protein rich foods to provide the building blocks for muscle. Supplement with fish oils, vitamin D and probiotics. For men suffering with long term chronic pelvic pain (CPPS), with symptoms such as genital or pelvic pain, pain or difficulty urinating and pain during or after ejaculation it is important to firstly check for infection, inflammation or cancer.

Men worry about wasting their GP’s time with these sorts of problems. However, depression and pelvic dysfunction are perfectly legitimate reasons to seek medical care. GP's spend about 30% of their time dealing with psychological issues and are well placed to refer onwards for further investigations and specialist care.

Emma Wightman - www.the-sop.com

Stockbridge Cinema Friday 11 February 2022 7.30pm After Love (12A) Following the sudden death of her husband, Fahima (Joanna Scanlon), who converted to Islam for marriage, is shocked to discover that he appears to have led a double life and seems to have another family based in Calais. Fahima decides to travel to Calais and confront them about their connections to her late husband. (In English, French and Urdu with English subtitles)

Wednesday 16 February 2022 5.00pm and 7.30pm Nowhere Special (12A) John (James Norton), a 35-yearold window cleaner and single parent, devotes his life to raising his four-year-old son Michael. Their life is one of complete dedication and innocent love that reveals the strength of their relationship. However, John only has a few months to live. Since he has no family to turn to, he spends the days left to him looking for a perfect family to adopt his son. Information common to all films: Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall SO20 6HE. Tickets can be purchased online (£6.00 incl £0.50p booking fee per ticket) via www. stockbridgecinema.org.uk or by telephone from TicketSource 0333 666 3366 (£1.80 charge per telephone booking in addition to the online ticket price). Visit our website for more details. Drinks and Ices will be on sale with payment by debit or credit card. Face coverings must be worn at all times (unless exempt or when eating or drinking).

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU Feeling more isolated andHEARING anxious during lockdown? are you having HAD YOUR TESTED? trouble hearing TV or talking on the telephone?

Are you having trouble hearing the TV or talking on the after telephone? Do you struggle to follow a conversation in a busy social environment?

WE ARE STILL OPEN VISIT US AT ALRESFORD HEARING STUDIO

FOR ALL YOUR HEARING NEEDS

• Latest Technology Demos • Tinnitus Advice • Custom Hearing Protection

CALL US ON 01962 790749

TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT ALRESFORD HEARING STUDIO

42 WEST STREET • ALRESFORD • HAMPSHIRE • SO24 9AU CALL US TODAY ON: 01962 790749 VISIT US AT: alresfordhearingstudio.co.uk

WELLBEING

www.river.dental or Call 01264 810818 ……………………… …………...…………...

kingfisher@river.dental River Dental, 1 Clarendon Terrace, High St, Stockbridge, Hampshire, SO20 6EY

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

• McTimoney Chiropractic • Sports Therapy • Allergy Testing • Hypnotherapy • Homeopathy • Counselling • Nutrition Chiros Clinic has close links to Andover Osteopathy, for more information contact Mark on 01264 580280

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

36 East Street, Andover, SP10 1ES

WELLBEING

Leave your lawn to us Independent Lawn Professionals

GARDEN / COMMUNITY Hampshire publisher wants to find new writers A project championing new writers has been launched by a Hampshire publisher.

from selected writers around the world.

Budding writers are being invited to submit their fiction and poetry to Tim Saunders in Locks Heath, who is publishing a book of short stories and an anthology of poetry

“I am particularly keen to promote fresh, new talent so extend this invitation to anyone aged 16 and over,” says Tim, who launched his latest books this month and writes for publications in England and America. “The challenge is that stories must not exceed 1,000 words and poetry needs to be 30 lines or under.” The deadline is April 28, 2022. Email your entries to: tsaunderspubs@gmail.com

ou Are y r bit ou ? y g n t doi lane p e for th

FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1973 BUILT ON GREAT SERVICE & VALUE FOR MONEY

Please visit our website for all the latest news, information, second-hand machines for sale and special offers in the showroom.

Tel: 01962 771800 steve.cann@btconnect.com www.georgecanngardenmachinery.co.uk LACEYS FARM, BRAMDEAN, ALRESFORD, HAMPSHIRE, SO24 0JT

Unable to plant a tree in your garden? Need to replace that rotting wobbly fence? Have a tired old hedge full of holes that needs instant repair? Do your bit by reducing your carbon footprint and at the same time create a natural environment for birds and small mammals What is co-curricular and why is it A good range of instant hedges are available fromeducation? Hampshire Hedges important to child’s ions of which they are capable, but a belief in themselves as unique Contact: Trevor@ hampshirehedges.co.uk or call: 07860 560 868 individuals, compassion for those around them and a passion for life. www.hampshirehedges.co.uk For further information or to find out how to arrange a visit, please visit www.embley.org.uk

EDUCATION Embley, Hampshire

Talk about when they were younger Many children enjoy hearing their parents tell stories about when they were younger. Recall stories that highlight how your child has developed and changed over the years, in a positive way. Recognise emotional growth as well as physical Many people mark walls recognising how tall their child has grown over the years, or display medals from their child’s school Sport’s Day. It is important to also praise emotional growth. This could be letting them know how proud you are when they have learnt to ask others to play when they used to be too shy to do so. Encourage them to try new things This could be new foods, activities, or experiences. Let them know that they don’t have to be perfect at it, but that ‘giving it a go’ is what matters most.

Children’s Mental Health Week – Tips for supporting your child We all have mental health, says Sheina Wright, Embley’s Head of Prep, and whether you’re four or 44 it needs taking care of. In the same way that eating a balanced diet and taking exercise keeps us physically fit, we can treat our mental health in exactly the same way. The importance of good mental health is central to what we do here at Embley. The changes that take place for a child as they navigate their way through school can be challenging and confusing, and with the added challenges of growing during a pandemic, it is essential that we continue to support the young people in our care to be as healthy physically and mentally. Here are some useful tips that will help you to notice any changes in your child’s mental health, guide them through it and in turn support their emotional growth.

Embracing Ambition

Listen to their hopes and dreams Encourage your child to see that all the fantastic things they are doing right now are tiny steps towards who they might choose to become in the future. Support them in learning from tough situations It can be very hard for a child when they aren’t getting on with friends. Acknowledging these feelings is important but helping them to see these situations as completely normal will help them to cope with the inevitable ups and downs of life. And finally, parenting is not easy and over the past two years it has changed beyond measure. Remember to give yourself a break, to practise self-care. Not only will this help you to look after your own mental health, but it will model self-care to your child. And remember – you’re doing a great job! www.embley.org.uk

I N D E P E N D E N T D AY & B O A R D I N G S C H O O L F O R B OY S & G I R L S A G E D 2 - 1 8

Where boys and girls fulfil their academic ambitions to achieve their personal best, develop belief in themselves and compassion for those around them.

Embley Park, Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 6ZE

www.embley.org.uk

To find out more or arrange a visit, please contact admissions@embley.org.uk or call 01794 527371 11

EDUCATION Salisbury Cathedral School Pupils Plant an Orchard

the orchard will not only be a plentiful source of spring nectar for bees and other pollinators, but will also be an autumnal source of tasty fruit for pupils, parents and teachers too. Grass will be left to grow throughout the orchard and, over time, gorgeous spring bulbs will be planted around the tree trunks. It will be a playground for all creatures great and small. ‘We are so excited to invite the pupils to plant the new trees. The project empowers them to take action towards a better world for all and is a fine example of experiential learning. Lesson time will be devoted to illustrating how knowledge of soil types, microorganisms, root systems, light, competition and eco-systems is applicable in a practical sense,’ says Will Frost, Head of Outdoor Learning. The initiative is the second pupil led project supporting the school’s involvement in the Conservation School Award hosted by the environmental charity, Operation Future Hope (OFH). Participation in the Award involves a five-year commitment to boosting biodiversity within the school grounds by creating natural habitats for native wildlife. The good work will continue in the summer term when pupils will be designing, creating and installing various habitat boxes for native wildlife. For further information please contact: orange.j@salisburycathedralschool.com / 01722 555300

Just as the 2,500 bulbs planted last Autumn start to bloom, the pupils at Salisbury Cathedral School will plant a new fruit orchard in the school grounds. Composed of native apple and pear trees,

Stroud: Exploring the Cosmos in STEAM Week

Salisbury Cathedral School 1 The Close Salisbury SP1 2EQ

a multitude of activities to develop their love of science, technology, engineering, art and maths. During STEAM Week, Stroud children plan to boldly go where no child has gone before: looking at the stars, learning about planets, enjoying the planetarium and examining the very beginning of the Big Bang. They will participate in lots of cross curricular learning, using mathematical and statistical elements and engineering skills. Key Stage One will design a future planet, using skills from Art and Design to think about what would be needed to sustain life. The children will also learn about propulsion and how rockets manage to leave the Earth’s atmosphere and make it into space. They will make a variety of different engines using water, matches, chemicals and rockets and there should be some spectacular sights as their carefully designed rockets are propelled high into the air.

Stroud School children will soon be taking a giant leap into the cosmos during STEAM Week, with an exhilarating timetable of extra-terrestrial learning. Whilst they might not be able to solve the answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe and everything, which apparently is 42, they have a week of STEAM activities where they will explore space and astronomy, the solar system, phases of the moon and space travel. Launching STEAM week is World Book Day, where the theme is Space. Children will be coming into school dressed as characters or space explorers from their favourite nonfiction books. This will launch “STEAM” week where the children will explore

Stroud School, the feeder school to King Edward VI, Southampton, is a gently selective School in Romsey with main entry points at Nursery, Reception and Year 3. Stroud is proud of the hugely varied opportunities it provides for its children, as this is what gives children that zest for life. Its experienced and dedicated teachers strive to champion each child’s talents and passions – whatever they may be. See STEAM Week in action at Stroud's Open Morning on Wednesday 9 March 2022 at 9.30am. To register your place, please call 01794 513231 or email registrar@stroud-kes.org.uk.

EDUCATION

Open Morning FRIDAY 11 FEBRUARY 2022 10AM – 12NOON (BY APPOINTMENT ONLY)

Your child at our heart... Located just an hour and half from London Weekly boarding available

Connect with us

CO - E D U CAT I O N A L DAY A N D B O A RD I N G P R E PA RATO RY S C H O O L FO R C H I L D R E N A G E D 3 TO 1 3

W W W. S A L I S B U RY CAT H E D RA L S C H O O L . CO M

RETAIL / ENTERTAINMENT

Serving Broughton and the surrounding Test Valley

• Locally Sourced Food & Drink • Large Car Park With Plenty Of Spaces • Lots of Delicious Treats • Post Office • Deli • Coffee

Classic Antique Furniture We buy, sell and restore antique furniture

ECO-PRODUCTS Dry Goods Refills

Bring in a container and fill with nuts, rice, pasta, oats, cereals or seeds.

Liquid Household Refills Bring a bottle and fill with soap, washing up liquid, laundry liquid, cleaners, shampoo, conditioner or hand sanitiser We also have The Magnificent Seed extra virgin rapeseed oil on tap for refills

SHOP OPENING HOURS FROM JAN 2022

NEW Weekdays: 9am - 5pm Saturday: 9am - 12:30pm Sunday: 9:30am - 12:30pm

POST OFFICE OPENING HOURS

NEW Weekdays: 9am - 5pm Saturday: 9am - 12pm Sunday: Closed

Tel: 01794 502495 Facebook: @BroughtonVillageShop www.broughton.shop Broughton Community Shop, Village Hall, High Street, Broughton, SO20 8AX

We are interested in acquiring antique furntiture and treen such as tables, cabinets, chest of drawers, mirrors, stools, boxes and trays

Phone: 07717 705111 or 07973 416839 Email: info@cassondrinkwater.co.uk

www.cassondrinkwater.co.uk

N F INE ART AU C TIO NEERS & VALU ERS

CLASSIC & CONTEMPORARY INTERIORS SALE

Tuesday 22nd - Thurs 24th March 2022 Viewing From 12pm - 5pm Thur 17th 10am - 5pm Friday 18th 10am - 5pm Saturday 19th 10am - 5pm Monday 21st And 8.30am on the morning of the sale

www.andrewsmithandson.com Enquiries: t: 01962 735988 e: auctions@andrewsmithandson.com THE AUCTION ROOMS, MANOR FARM, ITCHEN STOKE, ALRESFORD, SO24 0QT

Behind every epic story there is a strong woman...’ Jessie Keane’s latest blockbuster novel is out February 3rd 2022 It’s available from Amazon, Tesco, Asda, Sainsburys & all good retailers or through Jessie’s website: www.jessie-keane.co.uk

RETAIL / ENTERTAINMENT

One of ITV's Most Popular Antiques Experts

BEST CASH PRICES PAID FOR: Gold & Silver Jewellery & Antiques Including: Watches, medals, bronzes, oriental ceramics, quality antiques, house clearance/insurance valuations

Happy to arrange home calls by appointment karendalmeny@gmail.com For enquiries please call:

by Emma Bevan 5–15 JAN @ 7.30PM

07712 I’M COMING 545 700

BELA

E F Benson’s

9–19 FEB @ 7.30PM

Adapted by Charly Armstrong

by Gary Orchard 24–29 JAN @ 7.30PM

Tom Derrington 9–19 FEB @ 7.30PM

21–26 FEB

WED 9 FEB - SAT 19 FEB @ 7.30PM (SUN 13 FEB @ 2.30PM)

73 St Margarets Lane, Titchfield PO14 4BG

MON 21 FEB - SAT 26 FEB @ 7.30PM

www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com • 03336 663366

by Janette Evans 9–19 MAR @ 7.30PM

YOUTH THEATRE & CHILDREN'S SHOWS - SUN 11 JUL - AT 2PM & 6PM - THE GREAT BARN

CCADS PRESENTS JANE EMMA --SUN WED1314MAR JUL @2.30PM AT 7PM - THE GREAT BARN WED 9 MAR - FRI 18AUSTEN'S MAR @ 7.30PM

73 St Margarets Lane, Titchfield PO14 4BG

www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com • 03336 663366 73 ST MARGARETS LANE, TITCHFIELD, PO14 4BG WWW.TITCHFIELDFESTIVALTHEATRE.COM | BOX OFFICE: 03336 663366

RECIPE WELLBEING OF THE MONTH

Show your love this Valentine's Day with these delicious Macarons. Makes 30 macarons For the Macarons 200g icing sugar 110g ground almond flour 3 medium egg whites 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 70g granulated sugar Food colouring as desired For the filling 25g unsalted butter, room temperature 110g double cream 120g dark chocolate, finely chopped 75g raspberry jam Method Place the ground almonds and icing sugar and half a teaspoon of salt into the bowl of a food processor and pulse about 12 times until the mixtue appears fully combined. Sieve the mixture carefully into a large bowl, making sure that any mixture remaining in the seive is disgarded. In another bowl take the egg whites and the other half teaspoon of salt and mix (using a hand mixer) until soft peaks form. Slowly add the granulated sugar and continue to whisk until stiff peaks form, you should be able to invert the bowl without your ingredients falling out. If your mixture is ready beat in the vanilla extract and food colouring.

Mix your almond flour mixture in about three parts to the beaten eggs. Gently, using a spatula fold in the mixture. Continue adding the almond flour mixture carefully until it forms a batter. it should fall in a thick ribbon from the spatula. The ribbon should also fade back into the batter within about 30 secs – if it doesn’t, fold a few more times. Heat oven to 170C/150C fan/gas 3-4. Line three baking sheets with baking parchment. Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a large round nozzle. Hold the bag vertically to the tray, with the nozzle about 1cm from it. Pipe rounds about 2.5cm in diameter onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave to rest for 30 mins, or until the macarons have developed a skin. Bake the macarons for 17 minutes, until the feet are wellrisen and the macarons don’t stick to the parchment paper. Transfer the macarons to a wire rack to cool completely before filling. For the filling, place the cream in a small saucepan and the chocolate in a bowl. Bring the cream just to the boil and pour over the chocolate. Leave to stand for a few mins, then stir until combined. Add the butter and stir until smooth, leave to cool and thicken. Place the filling mixture into a piping bag with a smaller nozzle and gently pipe the edge of half the macarons. Fill the centre with rasberry jam and sandwich with another macaron shell. Pop the finished macarons in an airtight container for 24 hours to rest for the best results, enjoy!

RETAIL / COMMUNITY Davina's Fashion We are pleased we have survived all the various difficulties thrown at us by Covid including lockdowns and now look forward to a bright future in 2022. We are open every day except Sunday from 10 – 5. Do come in and be served by either Davina or Louise.

No. 1 in Hampshire and Dorset for Mother of the Bride/Groom & quality label day wear Davina's has the largest up-to-date selection of high quality designer wear and ladies fashion clothing, if you are looking for a Mother of the Bride/Groom outfit, special occasion wear, cruise wear, prom dresses, or simply an addition to your seasonal wardrobe, then Davina's is for you.

Is this your prom year? Davina's has a great selection of Mascara Prom Dresses Tel: 01489 880900 or shop online at: www.davinasladiesfashion.co.uk 7 Warsash Road, Warsash, Southampton, SO31 9HW Open Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm

We have an exciting range of general clothing by Frank Lyman (sizes 8 20), a leading Canadian manufacturer, which is second to none. We also have exquisite jeans through to beautiful short evening wear. The Frank Lyman Collection is inspired by the daring, confident and unforgettable woman. Without claiming to be perfect, she embraces herself, adopts her own style and wears it with confidence. She is not defined by age, rather by her charisma. Her fashion embraces her curves and her pace of life. Her clothes are at the same time comfortable, fit and practical, but just as fanciful, because everything is played in the details. We are fully stocked as the latest items have recently been added ideal for the coming Spring and Summer. Davina’s is also the place to come if you are seeking a special mother of the bride/groom outfit. We have an excellent range of Condici outfits which cannot be bettered for quality or style. We have predominantly shift dresses and “A” line dresses. Most come with a matching jacket which gives the finishing touches to the whole outfit. We also have matching hats, hatinators and fascinators together with shoes and clutch bags. It really is a “one stop shop” so you can leave us with everything ready for that special wedding without having to trail round different shops. We are located in the centre of Warsash about one hundred yards from the Clocktower, next to the Coop. There is a car park opposite with free parking for up to 4 hours; so do come and try things on. We would love to see you either on your own or with your partner. Make it an enjoyable retail therapy experience to cast away the blues of the past 2 years. Do visit our website at www.davinasladiesfashion.co.uk which is a showcase of some of what we have to offer.

The Winning Family of 'InAndover's' Nutcracker Trail Andover family Katie, Alex, Leo, and Blake Fielder are announced as the winners of InAndover’s Nutcracker Trail, a fun family event that ran in Andover Town throughout December. Young Blake said ‘it was great fun, and we went all around the town and visited all of the businesses, some we didn’t even know where they were. We discovered Alex McGarry Studio in Shaws Walk and I loved Burgos Pet World. The parrot spoke to me, and the guinea pigs were great. I didn’t think for Competition winners Katie, Alex, Leo, and Blake Fielder receiving one moment that we would win their prize from InAndover’s but we did, and we are going to Shelley Coburn have a waffle at Canto Gelato and then down to Frango Grill to buy a chicken meal with one of the vouchers.’ Families were encouraged to enter the trail and to follow clues in our fairy tale to locate ten nutcrackers in the town Centre businesses and enter the great Andover BID competition. They were able to collect one of 10,000 competition booklets distributed around town or to download online. The trail was completed by hundreds of people including many families and they were encouraged to visit the town-centre and locate the ten nutcrackers placed in participating businesses around the town.

Test Valley Arts Foundation Monologues A returning lover and an abandoned husband; a gentleman of the road and a Romany in an apocalyptic future; the Millenium Man and a discriminated schoolgirl. Six characters whose stories were told when the winners of the Test Valley Monologue competition had their pieces performed at the Salisbury Fringe. Test Valley Arts Foundation launched the competition to encourage local writers to write for performance. The requirement – a ten-minute monologue inspired in some way by a place, a character or an incident in Test Valley. To help writers not used to the form, TVAF organised a well-attended workshop run by award-winning tutor Angie Street. For many of the participants, this was a comprehensive and enjoyable introduction to a new form of writing. Covid struck as the deadline for entries approached, but there were still fifteen excellent entries. Competition judge Penny Gold, former head of radio 4 drama, commented on the hard task deciding between entries of a high standard. The six winners she picked were: Sian Bailey Marie Dyke Bob Jones Sarah Klemz Cat Randle David Walkling

What We’re Made Of Consequences Waiting For Alice Lone Traveller The Promise No Direction Home

You can watch the monologues at: www.testvalleyarts.org/past-projects/

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EDUCATION / COMMUNITY At Godolphin, We Don’t Believe in Open Days We want parents to discover the real Godolphin. That is why we offer Snapshots instead. Held on Friday mornings and limited to 10 families, this is your chance to truly experience the school. No formal presentations. No carefully-crafted exhibitions. No students coached to give model answers.

One of the most versatile and original cellists of his generation to open Stockbridge Music’s 2022 season

Adrian Brendel Cello

Charles Owen Piano

Friday 18th March 2022, 7:30pm St Peter’s Church, Stockbridge SO20 6HE This concert is kindly sponsored by Mr & Mrs Guy Boney Performing a dynamic and varied programme of music by Bach, Beethoven, Liszt, Kurtag and Fauré, Stockbridge Music is delighted to welcome internationally acclaimed musicians Adrian Brendel and Charles Owen to open its Spring 2022 programme. One of the most versatile and original cellists of his generation, Adrian Brendel has travelled the world as soloist, collaborator and teacher. His early immersion in the core classical repertoire inspired an enduring fascination that has led to encounters with many fine musicians at the world’s most prestigious festivals and concert halls. Charles Owen enjoys an extensive international career performing a wide-ranging repertoire to outstanding critical acclaim. Charles is also a Professor of Piano at the Guildhall School, of Music & Drama, London and Guest Professor at RWCMD, Cardiff. He was appointed Steinway & Sons UK Ambassador in 2016 and is also an Ambassador for the Help Musicians Charity. For booking information and to join our mailing list, go to www.stockbridgemusic.uk We look forward to welcoming you! Tim Lowden, Musical Director

Instead, watch real classes and discover our fantastic facilities. Speak with staff and ask students questions. You can also meet the Head. Our Snapshots are designed to help you discover if Godolphin is right for you. Located in the heart of Salisbury, we have educated young women for almost 300 years. We teach girls from Prep to Sixth Form, providing a consistent and unified approach to education. Although historic in appearance, the school is welcoming and supportive. Our mix of tradition and progress ensures students are prepared for life’s challenges, and are ready to leave their mark on the world. We deliver a holistic education, where self-worth is built on gaining academic knowledge, practical skills and critical thinking. If you want a school that realises potential and nurtures individual talent, then Godolphin could be the perfect match. Book your Snapshots place now at www.Godolphin.org.

Enjoy Springtime at Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve, Totton Springtime is a great time to visit Testwood Lakes as the animals and plants are waking up, springing back to life, or returning after a very long journey. Hampshire IOW Wildlife Trust staff and volunteers will be giving families a warm welcome and there is plenty of fun to be had for children of all ages. For children aged 1.5-5 years there are weekly Forest School sessions on Monday mornings 9.30am-11.30am. Families can book ahead for a 6 week term (£39) and children can cook on a campfire, use tools to make things from wood and play in nature. Every last Saturday of the month 10am-12pm families are invited for a Wildlife Tots session themed around a story with some exploring and crafting outside. Wildlife Tots is aimed at 2-5 years and cost £5 a session. For even younger ones (0-2 years) there is a weekly Natural Babies session every Tuesday morning 10.30am-12pm. There are buggy walks, crafts for adults, sensory play and songs for babies. Nature Babies cost £4 a session. For older ones every last Saturday of the month there are activities for 5-15 years (Wildlife Watch, 2-4pm). Young people can learn more about wildlife and take part in activities to help wildlife such as making a bird box or taking part in a conservation task with tools. There are opportunities to see wildlife through bird watching and pond dipping activities. Adult accompaniment is essential, and the cost is £5 per session. Parking is available at the Education Centre on the hill overlooking Testwood Lake. Please follow the green signs. To find out more and book please visit: https://www.hiwwt.org.uk/ events, visit Facebook: Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve and Education Centre or email: testwoodlakes@hiwwt.org.uk

Four ways to improve your home’s green credentials The UK’s housing stock is some of the oldest and most poorly insulated in Europe, so it comes as no surprise that research undertaken by the UK Committee on Climate Change estimates that £250 billion will need to be invested by 2050 to bring homes up to date. Encouraged by a global focus on climate change, a handful of UK banks and building societies, including Newbury Building Society, are now offering green mortgage products to help people create more sustainable, environmentally friendly homes fit for the future. Green home improvements aren’t just good for the planet, they can also be good for your bank balance; helping you to improve energy efficiency and cut bills. If you’re wondering how to reduce the carbon footprint of your home, here are four ideas: 1. Upgrade your insulation The insulation in your walls, floors, and roof is an excellent place to start, particularly because without upgrading poor insulation, you’re unlikely to see the benefit of other, more costly, improvements. Most homes built since the 1990s have insulated walls, but this often isn’t the case in older homes. Luckily, cavity wall insulation is often straightforward to install (seeking a registered installer through the National Insulation Association is always recommended), and with a third of heat lost through external walls, should help to keep your home cosy. 2. Don’t glaze over the importance of windows and doors Replacing any single glazing with double (or even triple) glazing can be a big help in keeping your home warm. Similarly, any external doors can be replaced to prevent heat escape, with modern designs containing integrated insulation. If you want to go further, some suppliers offer eco-friendly products with special finishes such as inert gas fillings. 3. Harness the sun As one of the most visible green property updates, you may have considered making the most of the sun by installing a solar photovoltaic (PV) system. Systems connect to your electricity supply and can be used to power appliances in your home. There are also solar water heating systems available, which you could use to heat water for those bubble baths. Solar thermal systems are unlikely to provide 100% of your hot water supply, but the Energy Saving Trust estimates that a good system should provide around 90% in the summer, and 25% in the winter.

4. Renewable heating systems With conversations about energy bills rumbling on, it’s no shock that many people are considering a renewable heating system. Let’s focus on one option: heat pumps. Two choices are air-to-water and ground-to-water heat pumps, with installation costs ranging between £7,000 and £19,000. Heat pumps use electricity but are considered efficient because the amount of heat produced is more than the electricity needed to power them. Some suppliers also offer renewable electricity tariffs, so you can ensure the energy for your heating comes from 100% renewable sources. Some green updates can be expensive, and that’s where our GoGreen products come in. Whether you want to up the green credentials of your current home or build your own eco-friendly house, Newbury Building Society can help. • •

For our existing mortgage members, our GoGreen Further Advance Mortgage is designed to help you make energy efficient home improvements. For those considering creating their own ecofriendly home, our GoGreen Self-Build Reward is available on our current self-build mortgage and is designed to encourage the incorporation of energy efficient features into the design of your home.

If you would like to talk to us about our GoGreen Further Advance Mortgage or GoGreen Self-Build Reward, you can arrange an appointment to discuss by video or by telephone. Andover branch: 35 High Street, Andover, SP10 1LJ Call: 001264 361455 Email: andover@newbury.co.uk Cliff Osborne Andover Senior Branch Manager.

YOUR MORTGAGE IS SECURED ON YOUR HOME. THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Newbury Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number 206077). English Law applies and we will communicate with you in English. We are participants of the Financial Ombudsman Service. We have a complaints procedure which we will provide on request. Most complaints that we cannot resolve can be referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service. 8588

Newbury

Building Society

Prep, Senior, Sixth All Girls Education, Salisbury, Wiltshire Day, Weekly and Full Boarding

Tel. 01722 430545 admissions@godolphin.org www.godolphin.org #WeAreGodolphin

Test Valley Forum Issue 162 February 2022

Articles inside

Garden

Wellbeing

Professional Services

Education