Test Valley Forum - Issue 172 - December 2022

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

Lucia Foster-Found www. luciafosterfound.com

Get in Touch

Forum Publications Offices Unit 8A, Shelf House, New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QH Tel: 01962 735137 www.forumpublications.co.uk

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. 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

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Bespoke Kitchens & Furniture

Happy Kitchens have a unique approach when it comes to kitchens and custom spaces in the home. We use excellent quality materials which are fitted by exshipwright joiners, who used to fit the woodwork on Super Yachts. That in itself is unique in our industry but then add in the fact that we are bespoke, but don’t charge the inflated prices that your highend high street showrooms do, gives us the recipe for your perfect home solution. This is why we are one of the highest rated home improvement companies on HOUZZ, beating all the top names you might recognise when walking down your high street.

We have never had less than a 5 star

review and have won the HOUZZ best of service award every year since it has been running. The staff at HOUZZ reference us to other companies as to how customer service should be done. Many of our customers have used us 2 or 3 times due to moving house or tackling other projects in their existing houses.

We do not have a template for design and take a fresh approach with every customer. It is important to take all the best ideas a customer has, then bring in the experience we have to offer, and often our ideas will be completely different to any other companies as we are innovative and bespoke. We often hear that customers have had designs and quotes that all look the same, are boring and

un-exciting, yet expensive. This is because most high street ‘kitchen designers’ are just salespeople with no idea on how a kitchen works.

Bespoke sizing - Media walls, boot rooms, custom offices, installed by ex shipwright joiners with exceptional attention to detail

So whether you need an amazing Kitchen, Utility, Bedroom, coffee bar with custom pod storage, Office, Media wall or Living Room storage we can help. The design visits are free of charge, and we can quote on the same day. Also Ben loves design, so often at no extra charge, he will help you choose paint colours, light fittings, Bar stools, artwork and can even recommend great pots and pans.

“Thisisthesecondtimewehaveused HappyKitchensandonceagainweare overthemoonwiththeresults! Thelevelofworkmanshipisjust outstanding,theguyswereapleasure tohaveinthehouse,Wewon’thesitate tocontinuetorecommendHappy Kitchenstoanyonelookingforanew kitchen.Highlyrecommend!”

Anna and Hugh Cutler, May 22

Our customers will often use us again, and recommend us to Family and Friends. The quote from the review above was from a customer who has chosen us twice, and their parents also have a Happy Kitchen, and two of the parents' friends.

“HappyKitchens.WOWWOW WOW.Thankyousomuchforgiving usthewowfactorweaskedfor.”

The McAdams – June 21

The biggest compliment we get from our customers is always around our attention to detail and often bringing something completely different to the table. If you are still unsure after reading this, go and read some of our reviews on our Happy Kitchens Houzz profile, and do a search of kitchen companies on there by review rating, we are always close to the top of the list.

Out-of-the-box thinking, bespoke design features, and friendly staff with excellent attention to detail are just a few of the reasons you should call us today. If that isn’t enough please do remember that the design visit is free of charge, so you have nothing to lose.

One of the top reviewed companies on Houzz, offering free home design visits

Kenya 2022 Reflections

As I place my hands around the swollen belly of a heavily pregnant woman, in the remote arid, hot lands of the Pokot, I wonder (for the umpteenth time) if I’m of any use at all.

The unborn baby of this young motherto-be is lying oblique, undescended and high above the pelvis. It seems to sense no urgency of a missed due date, the anxiety of its mother or the importance of finding a better position to lie. The mother’s first baby died in childbirth due to complications linked to the mutilation, devastation and scarring to her vulva, clitoris and vagina as a result of FGM (female genital mutilation). No, not female circumcision, not cutting; but mutilation. It can be the only way to describe this violent and barbaric act. There is nothing sterile, neat, clean or remotely health related to this practice. This is just one of many complications of the practice of removing all external genitalia with razor blades and sewing the remaining skin together again, closing over the vagina and urethra to just leave a pencil size hole to urinate, menstruate, have sex and give birth through.

This woman’s second baby is unable to correct its lie and descend into the pelvis due to the torsion in the uterus and pelvis, and extensive scarring of the pelvic floor. As the mothers story unfolds beneath my hands and I feel the trauma, the shock, the breath held as if braced and in waiting, I question again and again, what can I do?

I wait for my doubts to recede and to feel a stillness within myself. I feel her body leaning back into me, I feel her calming, her presence coming into my hands, I trust her trust in me. And I begin.

This is osteopathy in the field, knowing that you have no back up, no substitutes, no referral team, no hospital, no alternatives. You are all they’ve got. You just have to begin. Whether I was patching up broken bones with simple K-tape and a lolly pop stick, cleaning infected wounds and burns, handing out de-worming drinks, food, shoes, or treatment for pelvic floor scarring, it never felt like it was enough. But if I didn’t do it, who would?

There is no option of giving up, there is no one else who can do it for you. And surely something is better than nothing I kept telling myself, even if it didn’t meet our standards of care in the UK, even if it wasn’t a long-term solution, even if it wasn’t enough. So on a wing and a prayer I worked, with the words ‘it’s never too little’ thrumming around my head.

My wings were my osteopathy, and my prayers were either whispered or yelled into the clouds; ‘please make what little I CAN do helpful’.

FGM is still practiced throughout Kenya, despite it being made illegal in 2011. The rates are beginning to decline in more connected and educated areas such as within the Maasai. But amongst the Pokot, rates remain stubbornly high at about 99%. The charity I work for, Divinity Foundation, works primarily caring for women and children affected by FGM. They provide education, healthcare and a rescue centre for girls at risk.

The centre was built in 2014 and provides full board, lodgings, healthcare, education and most importantly, love, kindness, and protection.

When a girl goes through FGM at around the time of her first period, it is a right of passage and she can then be married to whoever wants her, no matter his age or how many other wives he has. This destroys any chance of her independence, education and freedom. The charity rescues girls at this juncture and offers them an alternative. They can assume guardianship and protect the girl for as long as she needs it. As the girls grow their needs become more complex and expensive. Often involving hospital stays, court appearances, higher education costs, travel and living expenses.

And this is where you can help. If you feel this is something you would like to get involved in, the charity runs a sponsorship program for each girl. For £40 a month you can cover all these costs. Your support is absolutely transformative for the lives of these girls, the scope of the charity, and all the 2500 patients we treat during each expedition. I am so incredibly grateful to you for your donations of money, clothes, shoes and your kind words of support and encouragement. Without you beneath my osteopathy wings, I wouldn’t be able to give what little I can, or be on this life-fulfilling journey.

If you would like to learn more, please visit the charity’s website www. divinityfoundation.com and if you’d like to sponsor a girl, please contact me direct at emma@the-sop.com

Thank you. From the very bottom of my heart, thank you.

Emma Wightman

www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/humanitarianosteopathy www.the-sop.com

‘It will never be enough, but it will never be too little’

Begin your new year as you mean to go on with this transformational Women’s Health Course

This course is for you if you have any of the following:

• Fatigue, irritability, stress or anxiety

• Back or pelvic pain

• Loss of strength and mobility, or tummy gap

• Pelvic floor concerns, such as leaking or prolapse

• Cycle or menopause symptoms

• Loss of motivation, confidence and trust in your body

The Womo course costs £290 and covers all things women’s health, from pelvic floor and exercise, to hormones, stress and nutrition, and is one of the most comprehensive women’s health courses available.

Monday mornings 9.30am-11.30am 16th, 23rd, 30th Jan & 6th, 20th, 27th Feb 2023

The Scout Hut, behind the Grosvenor Hotel, Stockbridge High Street

For more information and bookings go to www.the-sop.com/womo

Included: Refreshments, exclusive access to online content, course booklet, and tailor made healthcare and exercise plan

Alresford Hearing Studio

How to identify hearing loss

Did you know that 1 in 6 of the population are living with hearing loss? That’s around 11 million people in the UK alone.

If this sounds familiar, its’ possible you could be living with some degree of hearing loss.

Read on to find out what the symptoms of hearing loss are and what you can do if you suspect you may be one of the estimated 11 million people in the UK living with hearing loss.

Symptoms of hearing loss

• You often have to ask people to repeat themselves or don’t hear what they say

• You find conversation in groups difficult to follow

• You find it difficult to hear people on the telephone

• People often tell you that your TV or radio volume is too high

• You struggle to hear conversations when there is background noise such as in a café or noisy office

• You often feel as though people are mumbling when talking to you

On average it takes ten years for a person to address their hearing loss. Often, it can take a while for a person to notice there is a problem, since hearing loss is often a progressive condition - it is often loved ones who notice before the individual.

It can take even longer for a person to come to terms and accept that they may have a hearing loss. However, earlier treatment can improve outcomes and, in the majority of cases, we hear that people wish they had gotten their hearing loss treated sooner – earlier detection can improve outcomes and make the transition to hearing aids easier. But how do you tell if you have got a hearing loss?

Maybe you have noticed that life is starting to sound a little less vibrant? Or maybe you are struggling to hear the television or people talking when there is background noise?

• You find it difficult to identify where a sound is coming from

• You find yourself avoiding social situations because you are concerned that you won’t be able to hear

• People have suggested that your hearing may not be what it used to be

If you have experienced any of these symptoms, then a hearing test with a qualified hearing care professional may be beneficial to you. They can provide a definitive answer to whether you are experiencing a hearing loss and we will give you expert advice about the next steps if a hearing loss is detected.

So, why wait?

The sooner you have a hearing test, the sooner you can get onto the road to better hearing, and the sooner you can start to lead a normal life. Book an appointment today with your local hearing care specialist.

www.alresfordhearingstudio.co.uk 42 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU

Tel: 01962 790749

What would YOU miss most during the Holiday Season if a Hearing Loss Developed?

A Survey by Action on Hearing Loss identified some unsurprising but impactful results. People imagined missing out on a number of key elements of the festive season that other take for granted such as;

• The sound of Christmas Carols

• The Classic Christmas Songs on the radio

• The Soundtrack to much loved festive Films

still right for you. Visit a skilled and experienced audiologist before the festive season for a free, comprehensive consultation. They can optimize your current hearing aids to suit noisy environments such as parties or restaurants and can recommend the equipment that handle these environments best.

That is not good, when your hearing aids have directional microphones, the best spot to sit in is the one that will put room noise behind you. If you don’t have directional microphones, it may be time to consider an upgrade…

• Once you are confident in your equipment make sure you use it often, this allows your brain to adjust to different sounds over time

• Using it only when you are faced with noisy situations tends to overwhelm the brain so you need to ‘train’ it to deal with these situations. As you use them more your brain will start to distinguish between important and non-important sounds and adapts to the environment and makes it easier for you to follow the conversation. So start wearing your hearing aids every day in the weeks leading up to the Big Day!

Some Top Tips for the Party Season

• Check that your hearing equipment is

• Check whether your hearing aids have directional microphones (two microphones instead of one), that are designed to reduce sounds from the side and the rear and focus on sounds in front of you. They will focus your hearing aids wherever your nose is pointing. So if you are facing into a noisy restaurant, the directional microphones will be focusing on the greatest amount of background noise.

The Alresford Hearing Studio are a local family run independent business opened in 2019 by husband and wife Sam & Jodie Longman we now serve over 600 hearing aid patients locally.

If you feel your hearing equipment is not supporting you in the way you would like it to, The Alresford Hearing Studio are offering a FREE 30 DAY TRIAL throughout December to enable you to experience the latest hearing technology without any commitment.

NATURE OF BEAUTY

Skin & Aesthetics

Light up the room ahead of the Christmas season with sparkling skin and a glow that will last you into the new year. With our new resident Skin Doctor on the high street, you’re in great hands!

September marked the launch of Nature of Beauty, Skin and Aesthetics Clinic, on the High Street in Stockbridge. Lead clinician, Dr Christina Davies, brings her experience of all things skin and aesthetics from Harley Academy, London. No stranger to the area, Dr Davies previously served as a Medical Officer with the Army Air Corps at Middle Wallop and is a familiar face in Salisbury District Hospital. She believes that simple changes can make a huge difference when it comes to skincare, and people should not have to travel into London to receive gold standard care.

Dr Davies is passionate about all things skin, particularly minimally invasive procedures. She encourages the use of medical-grade skincare products, which have active ingredients and can aid the skin throughout the ageing process. These include vitamin C, retinol and advanced SPFs which work together to prevent future skin damage, correct visible signs, and protect healthy skin. Unlike those found in department stores, these products are supported by scientific, clinical research and this shows in the results.

Dr Davies consultations offer a full skin and medical assessment, meaning clients receive a bespoke skincare plan to target problem areas and goals.

Having trained at Harley Academy, London, the UKs Leading centre for post-graduate training in Aesthetics

Medicine, Dr Davies is well versed in all aspects of the ageing process. She believes that many of the structural changes in the face through ageing are predictable, and there is a lot she can do to provide support during this process. Antiwrinkle injections can help to reduce the formation of static lines, and soft tissue fillers can be used to support facial structures including the cheeks, lips, jawline, and chin. Carefully selected products can help the skin to stay hydrated and youthful- chemical peels, microneedling and laser help diminish fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, skin texture and blemishes, and boost production of collagen and hyaluronic acid to give a youthful appearance.

Flawless skin, once the preserve of the rich and famous, has now moved from Hollywood to the High Street, Dr Davies explains, “Antiwrinkle injections and soft tissue fillers gained quite the reputation from young women wanting to look like the latest celebrity, however in reality, the people I see in clinic are educated, professional, family-orientated people who want to look fresh and youthful. Looks are not everything, but they are important. It’s the little changes or ‘tweakments’ that can really boost confidence and selfesteem- that is where the true transformation lies. It is best to book any treatments a minimum of two weeks before a major event”

To celebrate their first Christmas, Nature of Beauty is hosting an exclusive skincare event in collaboration with Skinceuticals. (Limited to 20 places)

To book your ticket and treatment call the clinic on Tel: 01264 563082

Dr Christina Davies, Skin & Aesthetics Doctor, Nature of Beauty

Local Events

Stockbridge Antiques Fair

The Fair is held in Stockbridge Town Hall in the centre of the High Street, usually on the first Saturday of the month.

Unto Us a Child is Born’

Romsey Singers - Romsey Abbey Handel’s Messiah and carols for choir and audience. Tickets from Romsey Visitor Centre - 13 Church Street, Romsey 01794 512987 Online Ticketing, visit the website and follow links to Ticketsource.

Stockbridge

Cinema Elvis (12A)

Elvis Presley’s story is seen through the prism of his complicated relationship with his manager, Colonel Tom Parker. The story explores the complex dynamic between the two over a period of 20 years, from Presley's humble beginnings to his unprecedented stardom, against the backdrop of the evolving cultural landscape and loss of innocence in America. Central to that journey is one of the most significant and influential people in Elvis's life, Priscilla Presley. Information common to all films Showing at Stockbridge Town. Tickets can be purchased online (£5.50 plus £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).

Christmas Wreath Making and Afternoon Tea at Lainston House

Country house hotel, Lainston House in Winchester has the perfect experience to fill you with festive spirit this December! Try your hand at a bit of floristry by creating your very own Christmas wreath in the hotel’s beautiful 17th Century barn.

Don’t worry you’ll be taught by an expert florist – Judith Searles (Jude The Florist) or Emily Little (Little and Bloom) so you can go home with a wreath you’re proud to hang on your front door.

Once you’ve fuelled your crafty fingertips and brought your wreath vision to life, you can relax with some well-earned indulgence with Lainston House’s Festive Afternoon Tea, which can be made extra special by adding a glass of fizz!

HOW: Lainston House’s Christmas Wreath Making & Festive Afternoon Tea costs £99 per person and is available on Saturday 10th December and Thursday 15thDecember. For more information visit www.exclusive.co.uk/lainston-house or call 01962 776088

This festive season, book an unforgettable overnight stay at Lainston House and enjoy discovering Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market, award-wining cuisine with tasting menus at a Chef’s Table, Festive Afternoon Tea and an eclectic range of cookery classes at the hotel’s cookery school, Season. Lainston House is the perfect country escape for both couples and families, with many local attractions to enjoy on the doorstep this festive season!

HOW: Rates at Lainston House start from £255 per night. For more information visit www.exclusive.co.uk/lainston-house High res images: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ yuyzergwfm55huvr4omdh/h?dl=0&rlkey=bezz78iiri6y151my69fo3

The Alresford Hearing Studio are Offering a FREE 30 day trial of the Widex Moment Sheer Edition on our Open Days 12th & 13th December.

We know that the first experience of a hearing aid is vital in setting the direction of the journey to better hearing. A negative experience can leave you wondering if you were right to try a hearing aid at all, but a positive one can make you feel more connected to your life than you have been for years.

Built around the Widex Moment ™ platform and the revolutionary PureSound ™ , Moment Sheer Edition sRIC R D hearing aid is suitable for minimal to severe to profound hearing loss.

• New visual look and Superior Sound Quality in Background Noise

• Automatic Adjustments

• PureSound – The most natural sounding hearing aid due to the new ZeroDelay Technology

• Rechargeable

• Full connectivity – To Android or Iphone

Discover Salisbury’s Unique Christmas Shopping Venue

Christmas is upon us and the unique atmosphere of the season’s festivities is an occasion to relish. Whatever life’s uncertainties, Christmas shopping promises unexpected surprises and excitement, a feast for all the senses and a richly rewarding day.

To find inspiration discover the dazzling array of inspired and individual delights at Fisherton Mill, the converted Victorian grain mill in the heart of Salisbury’s city-centre and recently voted the best Art Space in Wiltshire.

“Our focus as always is on quality and craftsmanship and, fortunately, we have the space to extend our range of Christmas gifts, decorations and homewares. So, along with our handmade favourites, we have more things for children, imaginative stocking fillers and creative kits than ever before.”

“We know our customers want something fresh and original, and with value an important consideration this year, we’ve managed to

find something for all budgets. We’re ready to create your best Christmas ever,” says owner Deborah Fox.

After a stimulating and satisfying shop relax and enjoy the ambience of the Gallery Cafe once again voted an Observer Food Award winner. Spacious and comfortable, there is a mouth-watering selection of homemade cakes baked daily and an imaginative contemporary lunch menu all made on the premises. The state of the art barista bar provides a wide choice of refreshment.

Only a few minutes walk from the City centre and open Monday to Saturday (plus Sundays in December) Fisherton Mill is Salisbury’s destination shop for Christmas. Come in secret or enjoy with family and friends!

108 Fisherton St, Salisbury SP2 7QY www.fishertonmill.co.uk

We Whisk You a Merry Christmas

© Lucia Foster-Found 2022 www.luciafosterfound.com

The old electric hand whisk had died; some horrible disease had consumed its internal organs. As she dragged it out from the furthest reaches of the most awkward corner cupboard, bits of perished plastic and rubber dribbled out of it. At least, she hoped that it was bits of plastic and rubber and not the droppings of some appliance-eating infestation. She shuddered; not daring to plug it in, at arms length she put it outside.

Christmas had arrived. What, already? Yet again, despite her best efforts to diarise the process of Christmassing, it had sneaked up on her like a sneaky thing. And with her mental tick list of ‘must-do’s tap-tapping insistently at the inside of her skull, she now had no electric hand beater.

There was, of course, the beautiful standing mixer. Resting under its attractive cover on the work surface, it was complete with stainless steel bowl and a multitude of hooks, beaters and whisks. Bought second hand off eBay. Bought gleefully with many, many less pounds than it would have been new. Bought from someone who sheepishly confessed they’d used it once “for a bake-off with the other Mums…”

At the time, she’d carried it off so smugly. Feeling like Ina Garten she’d laughed like Blackadder’s Lord Flashheart at the ridiculous notion she’d use it only once…

But honestly… there was the assembling, the dismantling, the cleaning and the putting away; she bet Ina had staff for that. It was a faff for the quick jobs and, used so infrequently, she always felt the need to pre-wash it. Faced with Christmas cake and puddings to make, she’d once more guiltily ignored it and reached for her trusty and simple hand beater.

Himself had come into the kitchen that morning and murmured something about missing ‘stir up Sunday’ and not making a wish. “Well I haven’t made the cake yet.” In her exasperation, she was snappy. Nor the puddings, she thought, or for that matter any festive bakes.. That list again – tap, tap. There had been one brief sidelong glance at a frozen turkey in the supermarket - and a slight concern about the bird ‘flu. But nothing more; not one cracker or present had thus far been purchased.

“My mother would have had multiple Christmas puddings safely stored in the loft by now. And jars of lemon curd ready for tarts. Also a production line of pastry making and baking. Mince pies; dozens in out of the oven and cooling on racks. Made with home-made mincemeat, no less. Then there would not only be turkey for ‘the day’, but beef for

Boxing day. With a home-cooked ham for the cold meat spread on the 27th, home-made piccalilli and pickled shallots.. And me, I haven’t so much as bought a Christmas card!” She wailed.

Himself gave her a hug. “It’s exhausting just thinking about it. You should also remember that your mother didn’t go out to work. If you were at home 40 odd hours more every week, you too could be a domestic, flour-smudged goddess. And I’d be borderline diabetic.”

Good point, well made. She felt better. The list stopped tap-tapping. “Question. Out of interest, what is your stand-out memory of Christmas?” Himself asked.

She thought for a moment. “Well, it’s Christmas Eve and I’m superexcited watching a cartoon about how animals will all talk at midnight. I’d be about five.”

Himself gave her a look. “OK… here’s mine. It’s Christmas Eve. I’m six and sat in Brandy the boxer’s dog bed.”

“Because you were frightened that a red-coated, bearded stranger was going to break into your house and drink sherry?” she sniggered.

“No,” he said patiently. “I was chatting to Brandy because I was expecting Brandy to chat back. I too had heard that animals could talk on Christmas Eve. And notice that neither spookily-similar memory has got anything to do with cakes, mince pies, puddings or presents? It was purely the magic of Christmas.”

Heads full of festive childhood memories, they smiled mistily at each other for a moment. Then surreptitiously moving in front of the standing mixer whilst adding ‘selling it’ to her imaginary list, she said, “Actually, my electric hand beater thing has expired - and it was so quick and useful for doing Christmas cake, amongst other things.” The taptapping was back with a vengeance.

Himself whipped out his phone. Presently he said “new hand mixer should be here tomorrow. Let’s call it your gift from the dogs and I’ll teach them to sing “’we whisker you a furry Christmas’. On Christmas Eve. When they can talk.” He winked.

“As soon as it arrives I’ll crack on and make the cake,” she reassured, looking forward to crossing that off the list at least.

“Good,” Himself sighed. “Given the state of the world, it won’t hurt to stir the cake and make a Christmas wish or two...”

Local author Jessie Keane, dubbed the Queen of the Underworld, is back with another thrilling tale about her favourite heroine Annie Carter. ‘The fans have been screaming for this,’ says Jessie.

NEVER GO BACK is the seventh novel in the Annie Carter series, following on from Number One Heatseeker Dirty Game, then Black Widow, Scarlet Women, Playing Dead, Ruthless and Stay Dead.

‘I’ve written a number of stand-alones too, and the Ruby Darke series of 3 books,’ says Jessie, ‘I’m working on my 18th right now! But it’s the question I get asked time and again: when is Annie Carter coming back? Well – here she is!’

NEVER GO BACK hits the shelves in major retailers and bookshops on 2nd February 2023. It charts Annie’s sensational rise from East End London madam to gangster’s moll to Mafia queen to woman of substance. Jessie loved returning to her, and there may even be more Annie Carter books. ‘There’s a huge demand for more Annie,’ says Jessie. ‘I see it every day on Twitter and Facebook.’

Jessie is Romany and has – just like her heroines – known both bad times and good. ‘I’ve always written,’ she says. ‘And I was flat broke when I was inspired in 2008 to write Annie Carter in Dirty Game. I wrote it using a borrowed monitor in 3 months and within a fortnight I had a 3 book offer for a 6 figure sum from a major publisher. 15 years on, I’m still writing, still loving it.’

Pre-order your copy of NEVER GO BACK now at: https://amzn. to/3QEYiBF or on Jessie’s website www.jessie-keane.co.uk

Handel Messiah - Sat 10th Dec 2022

It’s so good to be back singing again, and this December, Southampton Philharmonic Choir return to O2 Guildhall Southampton with possibly the most famous of all choral works, Handel’s Messiah. It is a genuinely virtuoso work; requiring superb vocal technique from the chorus and soloists, a wide range of emotional expression and the ability to convey the most dramatic of narratives as well as moments of intense reflection. The fact that parts of Messiah are well known is a huge advantage to performer and listener alike - providing rallying moments of instant recognition and pure excitement. However, in such a substantial Oratorio, there are always new or less familiar moments to surprise and delight the listener.

For many, Messiah is an indispensable part of the festive season. With music of such remarkable quality, something new and fresh is almost inevitable, especially performing with the world-class Hanover Band. The use of period instruments creates just the right quality of sound whilst experienced musicians, immersed in Baroque style and techniques, will inevitably bring authenticity and authority to this popular work. Messiah was written in a mere 24 days between 22 August and 14 September 1741 with text compiled by Charles Jennens, and premiered at the New Music Hall in Fishamble Street, Dublin on 13 April 1742. The Choir, under the baton of Musical Director David Gibson is pleased to welcome soloists for this performance are soprano, Charlotte Bowden, mezzo Emma Roberts, tenor Michael Bell and bass Jamie Woollard.

Join us, tickets are on sale now from O2 Guildhall Southampton box office 023 8063 2601 or online www.O2guildhallsouthampton.co.uk.

#

K0 Christmas Pudding

MAKES APPROX. 35 TRUFFLES

INGREDIENTS

60g whipping cream

20g liquid glucose

180g melted milk chocolate

1 heaped teaspoon of mixed spice

55g finely chopped raisins

45g finely chopped cranberries

Grated Zest of 1 orange

1 ½ - 2 tbsp of Courvoisier

Extra melted milk or dark chocolate for rolling – approx. 150g

METHOD

•

Boil cream and glucose together until it bubbles… approx. 1 minute

• Add the mixed spice

• Allow the cream & glucose to cool

• Add Courvoisier once cooled

• Add chopped fruit and orange zest – then add melted (but not warm) chocolate

• Spread out onto flat tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes until set (not too hard)

• Using a tea spoon scoop out some of your truffle mixture and roll into a ball shape & place onto greaseproof paper

• Roll truffles in melted milk chocolate

• Once your truffles are rolled in chocolate then they will have a 3 month shelf life. Please store in a sealed container away from any direct sunlight or heat.

Have fun making your Christmas treats!!!

The Magic of Music Making

regular music practise, in groups such as choirs or ensembles as much as learning individual instruments.

Clive Marriott, Head Master of Salisbury Cathedral School and current Chairman of the Choir Schools Association, talks to Test Valley Magazine about his strong belief in the importance of a musical education and how Salisbury Cathedral School entwines the magic of music seamlessly into everyday school life.

Music is a vital subject in the school timetable, it should not be a ‘nice to have’ or an extra. My own education, as well as my educational career, has taught me that schools need to carve out space within their timetables for music and, perhaps more importantly, place a value on the importance of learning music.

As a child I drew much pleasure and strength from singing in choirs and I remember how it used to take all the worries out of my mind. I became engrossed in the activity and regularly found a lightness of heart that helped lift my mood and attitude. Looking back, I see how regular musical practise helped build deep rooted self-confidence which has set a strong foundation for my life.

Now, at the other end of the process, as a Head Master, I see the children in our care similarly flourish as they find their own voices, both literally and metaphorically. This is the foundation of my belief that all schools need to re-embrace the wonderfully mindful, restorative, and social benefits of

The way we build a culture of music at Salisbury Cathedral School is twofold: we ensure children start enjoying music as young as possible and also create a variety of opportunities to cater for all tastes and abilities. Here at Salisbury Cathedral School, our younger pupils learn spellings and times tables through song, it’s both effective and fun. It’s also important for all children to have opportunities to stand up in front of an audience. Musical performance naturally provides this. As children prepare to perform, they learn about delayed gratification and the rewards possible from steady work, practise, and a determination to improve.

Moving up to the prep school, more than 85 per cent of our pupils learn an instrument and every genre of music is covered, from classical to folk to jazz. There are five school choirs, two cathedral choirs (boys’ and girls’), 13 ensembles and at least 25 music concerts a year. Each choir sings different types of music with varied complexity and regularity. This opens opportunities for all children to join in at a level which appeals to them. It also means nearly every child is in at least one choir. It is more unusual to not sing than to be the boy or girl who attends choir.

By building this rich culture of music making, in many forms, regular singing and playing becomes just a part of the everyday for pupils. Creating frequent and diverse opportunities allows all pupils to feel involved and valued. We also schedule informal concerts as well as formal performances so taking part, learning, and trying is cherished as highly as accomplishment. Last but not least, we always have an eye on making it fun. A small treat, a hot chocolate in town or a little party at school, after a concert is always enjoyed by everyone!

Salisbury Cathedral School www.salisburycathedralschool.com

Enjoy Autumn and Winter at Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve, Totton

Autumn and Winter are a great time to visit Testwood Lakes as the leaves on the trees change colour and a range of birds return for the winter 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 Nature Tots and Babies session every Tuesday morning 10.30am-12pm. There are buggy walks, crafts, sensory play and songs for tots and babies. Nature Tots and Babies cost £4 a session.

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For older ones every last Saturday of the month there are activities for 5-15 years Wildlife Watch, 2-4pm and Wildlife Rangers for 12-18 years, 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 for Wildlife Watch but not Wildlife Rangers, and the cost is £5 per session.

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Parking is available at the Education Centre. Please ignore the first building and car park on the right and follow the green signs up to the Education Centre.

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

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Stockbridge based, graphic designer and children’s author, Andy Hussey, has been inspired to form an independent children’s publishing company, entitled Muddy Little Boots (www.muddylittleboots.com).

Working with a collaborative team of illustrators, narrators, SEN specialists and mindfulness consultants, along with local primary schools, Andy has produced two books to date and the eagle-eyed amongst you will have spotted the books in many local outlets and family.

Muddy Little Boots Publishing - A new independent publishing company encouraging exploration and appreciation of outdoor spaces and nature.

https://www.muddylittleboots.com info@muddylittleboots.com +44 (0)1794 463394 https://www.instagram.com/mlbbooks

Town centre Grotto returns bringing Christmas spirit to the Chantry Centre!

The Chantry Centre’s annual Grotto will soon be opening its doors and bringing lots of Christmas magic to Andover. Father Christmas and the elves will open the Grotto for the first time on Friday 25 November, 3pm to 8pm to coincide with the Andover Christmas Festival which will be filling the town with a series of festive delights. The Grotto will then open on select dates throughout December. Families can look forward to meeting some friendly elves and taking part in a short craft activity where they will have the opportunity to display their very own Christmas wish in the Head Elf’s workshop.

His debut book, launched in 2021, and is entitled “There’s No Deer Around Here.” Endorsed by The British Deer Society, this story explores the idea of deer coming closer to our homes, particularly during the lockdown period, and begins when a mysterious visitor eats all the plants in Granny’s garden one night. Jacob, the grandson, is left wondering what it could be. Together with his best friend, Archie-Dog, Jacob sets out on a mission – collecting clues along the way to prove to Granny that there really ARE deer around here! This fun-filled picture book has been extremely popular with local forest schools and nurseries, mimicking many activities and themes on the curriculum.

Following on, and inspired by the glorious River Test running through the Test Valley, Andy and illustrator Rosie Venner teamed up once again to produce “Any Trout About?” – A riverside adventure, this time endorsed by The Wild Trout Trust and The British Trout Association. Every weekend Charlie and Dad would watch excited families feeding the trout in the town stream (sound familiar?!). Today, it’s Charlie’s turn... but why are there no trout about?! Charlie and Dad embark on a riverside adventure to search for the elusive trout in the wild - and meet lots of animal friends along the way! Andy is keen to stress, whilst popular with many fisherfolk, this isn’t a fishing book, this is all about the riverside habitat, above and below the water, and all the magical things you can see and witness as a family.

Both books are beautifully produced and come with a FREE audio book that can be accessed via a QR code on the inside cover and once scanned an audio file with sound effects and prompts to turn pages is actioned – a real immersive treat and perfect for long car journeys.

With the help of mindfulness consultant, Ruth Davey from Look-Again (https://www.look-again.org ) Hussey also includes a timeless activity list at the back of each book; suggested activities that both young and old can do and appreciate as a family.

These books represent real value for money and are a perfect stocking filler, appealing to children aged 1-7. Books can be purchased via the Muddy Little Boots website (https://www.muddylittleboots.com/).

If you are a gift shop or stockist and would like to stock MLB books or request samples, please email: info@muddylittleboots.com

They will then have the chance to meet Father Christmas, pose for photos and children will receive a special festive gift to take home. The Grotto will be located in the same spot as previous years, near to Sports Direct and opposite Celebration Cube and Toy Arena. Tickets cost £5 per child and can be purchased by card at the door. Adults will be able to enter for free. When visiting the Grotto families will also have the chance to visit the centre’s shops and cafes, making for a great time out in the centre of town.

Full details of all opening dates and times for the Grotto can be found on the Chantry Centre’s website www.thechantrycentre.com

Best Dressed Christmas Window Competition Returns for 2022

Andover BID, through InAndover, its digital town centre directory, is again hosting the annual best-dressed Christmas Window Competition 2022. The popular window display event will see companies around the town participating by creatively decorating their window displays with attractive Christmas themes.

This year's criteria and target for businesses will be measured on quality, visual appearance, and effort. Each year, judging becomes increasingly more difficult, and for 2022, not only will the Andover BID have a physical judging panel drawn from the BID, Test Valley Borough Council and Andover Town Council, but also an opportunity for members of the public to vote via the In Andover website. In addition, a festive voting box will be placed in the town for those wishing to submit a paper vote.

Physical judging will occur on Friday, 19th December, with online judging taking place from the 1st – 20th of December. Online voting will close at 11:59 pm on the 20th December, and the winning business will be notified on 22nd December. Businesses will shortly be contacted by the Andover BID and encouraged to enter by sending a photograph of their dressed window to info@andoverbid.org.uk

The winning business will be presented with a prize, and £150 to be donated to a local charity.

Uplifting children’s books inspired by the Test Valley, encouraging exploration and appreciation of outdoor spaces and nature

wishes the community a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year