Test Valley Forum - Issue 173 - January 2023

Test

Situated on the outskirts of Abbotts Ann in a wonderful location with far reaching views over the surrounding countryside.

The property comprises; kitchen, dining room, sitting room, utility room, conservatory, main bedroom, two bedrooms with ensuites, family room/bedroom 4, bathroom. A range of farm buildings and useful outbuildings. There is scope for renovation and redevelopment potential subject to appropriate planning permission being granted.

In all 11.62 acres.

The outlook for the UK economy in 2023 is uncertain because of inflation, the threat of strikes and the ongoing Ukrainian war, however, we believe one positive and consistent factor will be the continuing demand for residential property in The Test Valley.

Alexis Kirchell, Residential Sales Manager - AlexisKirchell@myddeltonmajor.co.uk David Smith, Partner - DavidSmith@myddeltonmajor.co.uk

01264 810400 www.myddeltonmajor.co.uk stockbridgeresidential@myddeltonmajor.co.uk

The Old Police House, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE

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 Contributors

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 © Forum Publications Ltd, 2023

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

Why Full Management makes sense

Being a landlord has changed over the last few years. Tax changes, tightening regulations, and increased penalties have all been hitting the headlines, and there’s more on the way. While there’s no doubt that being a landlord is completely different today, money can still be made in the private rental sector if a landlord is shrewd and ensures the property is competently managed. Here are a few practical reasons why Full Management makes sense.

Compliancy made simple Legislation is constantly changing and the consequences of not complying to legislative changes can be costly at best and result in criminal charges at worst. Both national governments and local authorities are clamping down on landlords at present, so being compliant is essential.

The Country House Company will stay abreast of any changes that may affect your property and lay out your options in a way that is easy to understand.

Tenants have more confidence in a Fully Managed property Marketing your property as Fully Managed means that the landlord has invested in the property to ensure that it is in good order and let professionally. Tenants feel they can trust the landlord and have the security of a professional well-known letting agent to work with. This can make a huge difference when it comes to finding the right tenant.

Professional advice

A property manager will be able to explain, when specific issues arise, whether it is tenant or landlord responsibility. They can manage expectations on both sides, so removing any awkwardness or grey areas.

Tax deductible

The fees incurred for a Full Management service are tax deductible, so the fee is effectively reduced by 20% to 40% depending on which tax bracket a landlord falls into.

Less stress

Taking on a Full Management service removes the potential stress of late payments, awkward requests, unreasonable demands, dealing with contractors, worry about legislation and much more.

Professionally conducted inspections

Full Management includes biannual management visits and a comprehensive report with photos. This gives peace of mind that the tenant is looking after the property and will highlight any issues that need dealing with.

Buying time

Being a landlord can be an extremely time-consuming business. Making repairs, organising contractors, getting quotes or simply answering emergency calls out of hours all takes time. If a property is Fully Managed, the team at The Country House Company handle all those issues. We also have a Property Management phone which is manned by a member of our team 24hrs a day.

Opting for Full Management buys a landlord more time, reduces stress, ensures a property professionally let and fully compliant, all for a minimal, fixed monthly fee.

Marishelle Butler Management

Children’s play area in Andover set to get £350,000 renovation

• Funding has now been allocated by TVBC

• Over 600 people gave their thoughts about the space last year

• A further public consultation will now take place

A children’s play area in Andover is set to undergo a major £350,000 renovation, after Test Valley Borough Council’s (TVBC) cabinet approved funding for the project yesterday (Wednesday 7 December). Vigo Road Recreation Ground will see its play area refurbished, after the council undertook a consultation on the community’s aspirations for the wider space last year.

TVBC consulted with local schools, clubs, community groups and disability forums to help form a plan to improve the space. More than 600 people responded, with many saying that the play area was the main reason they visited the site.

Multiple comments were made about the play area needing to be updated to include a wider variety of new equipment with the addition of water play. Now that TVBC has allocated the funding for the work, it plans to

To discuss our Full Management service further please call Marishelle Butler, Head of Property Management on 01264 312832, email: marishelle@countryhousecompany. co.uk or see www.countryhousecompany.co.uk

undertake further consultation with the community over the next year to begin to develop a concept for the space before proceeding with tendering and then construction.

It’s hoped the site will be open to the public in Spring 2024. Councillor David Drew, portfolio holder for leisure, said: “Following on from the big consultation we did last year, it’s great to see that the renovation of the play area at Vigo Road recreation ground has been approved. Lots of people mentioned that the facilities there needed an upgrade, so I’m pleased this will be able to happen. The changes will not only improve the current equipment, but it will also see the introduction of some new and exciting ones as well. And as we work towards the final plan for the site, we’d love our local residents to help shape the finer details. I’d therefore urge people to keep an eye out for how they can do this in the next year. “With the park being near the town centre, the project will benefit the community and make a big difference to the whole area.”

Andover St Mary’s ward councillor Iris Andersen added:

“I’m delighted to hear funding has been allocated to make improvements to the play area at Vigo Road Recreation Ground. This project is proof that we listen to our residents and will continue to do so through the next consultation. When that is launched, I would encourage everyone to have their say on what they would like to see in the park, so we are coming up with the final plan together.”

Kate Porter Sales

Claudia Hunt Lettings

Haven’t You Heard?

“I miss the old-fashioned January sales. In January.” They were trapped in traffic. Stationary, they looked through the rain-streaked glass at the blurry fairy lights of those still clinging to the festive season.

“They were something to look forward to after Christmas. The silver lining of the big comedown.” She sighed. The windscreen wipers squeaked as they swooped intermittently over the windscreen in desultory fashion.

“You think? Depressing seeing the gifts you bought in December at half price.” Himself turned on the heater as the windows started to steam up.

“I suppose there was that,” she agreed and sighed again. Squeak squeak; the sound of the wipers was starting to irritate.

“I’ll put the radio on,” they said in unison and reached as one for the button.

“It’ll be Steve Wright.” Himself nodded as he looked at his watch.

“Every time you go away, you take a piece of meat with you,” she warbled along with the radio, adding “and haven’t you heard – Steve’s been gone for months.”

“What? Dead?” Himself was looking at her with an expression approaching horror.

“No – not dead,” she reassured. “Just gone.” “Gone? Well, no-one asked me. And it’s not ‘meat’ you’re hearing, Darling - it’s ‘me’. The lyrics...”

“Ah.. I thought it was weird,” she admitted. Himself was still shaking his head as the track changed and she broke into song once more.

“See that girl, watch her scream, kicking the dancing queen.” She danced in her seat, concert stylie.

The car inched forward a few feet and stopped again.

“I’m pretty sure there’s no screaming or kicking in that one either.” Himself murmured as he gazed again out of the window at the lights strung around a conifer in a front garden. It was fully dark now and the wind had picked up – the illuminations were dancing as the tree thrashed about. “And I still miss Wogan.” He added quietly before listening as she joined in the next song with a soulful “young girls with eyes like potatoes…”

“I don’t think you’re hearing Madonna singing about potatoes, darling,” he interrupted. “I mean, what sort? Jersey Royals? And even then those young girls would look... like the stuff of nightmares.” She felt, rather than saw him shudder in the darkness.

The radio DJs changed shifts and they listened in thoughtful silence for a few minutes before another track came on that she thought she knew the words to...

“She seems to have an in-vis-ible top shelf, she reaches in and grabs right

hold of your tart.” She paused in her singing, “actually, that’d be so useful – an invisible top shelf! I could put the Christmas crockery up there,” she mused, thinking of those robin-infested, non-microwaveable, nondishwasher-safe dishes festooned with gold.

Himself started to say “I’m not sure ‘ole Phil is singing about invisible top sh…” then exclaimed, “ooh… on the move at last,” as the traffic jam miraculously dispersed.

A couple of days later on Sunday, Himself wandered into the kitchen. Her head and shoulders emerged from the depths of the freezer. “Could you face turkey soup again? We’ve rather a lot…”

“Umm OK..” He hesitated and added “perhaps we could just have a few chips and maybe a bit of fish with it?” He looked so hopeful that she put the Tupperware tub back amongst identical siblings on its icy shelf. Best get January out of the way and tackle the soup lake again next month.

A spaniel’s nose nudged her leg. “Do you want to go out?” she asked. The dog stayed put. No mad, Scooby-doo-esque running on the spot before careering towards the back door. A second spaniel arrivedpositioned on her other side. They observed her with large and accusing eyes.

“Can’t be dinner time,” she reassured them. “Paul O’Grady’s not on the radio yet.” As if to prove her point, she turned up the volume.

“Ooh, I like this one…” She began to chant loudly “Marge! I just died in your barns tonight – mustard bin something you said..”

Himself had to shout over the combination of the radio and her trilling. “It’s later than you think – haven’t you heard, Paul O’Grady’s been gone for months..”

“No! Not Paul too…” Shocked, she dished up dog food to the partially mollified spaniels.

“I’m afraid so. A sign of the times – or at least, a sign of the radio times..” He shrugged.

Inconveniently though, she found the fryer was surrounded, hemmed in by gadgets; the gifts of Christmas past. It cowered in the corner of the cupboard, unable to escape the clutches of the juicer, the waffleiser, the electric pie press - and this Christmas’s hot favourite, the hot chocolate maker. More candidates for that invisible top shelf, she thought as she emerged, pink-cheeked and triumphant, fryer in arms. Himself, cheerful at the prospect of crispy, brown, fried food, delved into the freezer, happily retrieving fish fillets and home fries. “Hey –listen to this!” he chortled, before breaking into his own enthusiastic warbling, “Money for nothing - and your CHIPS for free...”

© Lucia Foster-Found 2023 www.luciafosterfound.com

Local Events

Stockbridge Antiques Fair

Saturday 7 Jan to Sat 4 Feb

From 9am to 4.30pm

Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE

The Fair is held in Stockbridge Town Hall in the centre of the High Street, usually on the first Saturday of the month. 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: 9.00am - 4.30pm. Contacts: Carol01264 335769 / 07870 432805 Steve - 01722 712267 / 07915 663251

Winter Wonderland Lights

transformed with lights, music, sound and, of course, birds in flight – just as beautifully as they did last year! Feathers Restaurant will also be open for food from 4:30PM-8:30PM. Times 6.00PM - 7.30PM and 8.30PM - 10.00PM . Tickets £14.00. Contact telephone: 01264 773850 Call to check latest times or cancellations.

FREE taster session with the Salisbury Rock Choir

Thur 12, 19, 26 Jan 2023

From 8pm

Old Sarum Community Centre, Pheasant Drive, Old Sarum, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 6GH

Sunday 15th January

From 7.30pm

Jewry Street, Winchester Hampshire, SO23 8SB

Monday 30 January

From 7pm

Army Flying Museum Hampshire, SO20 8FB

Friday 13th to Sun 15th

From 4.30pm

Sarson Lane, Weyhill, Hampshire, SP11 8DY

Janaury

Winter Woodland Lights is back! This January, the Hawk Conservancy Trust will once again, become even more magical, with beautiful illuminations and a live owl display set in a stunning, colourful woodland. They’ll take you on a NEW captivating trail through the grounds while immersed in nature, where the Trust will come alive with sounds and lights dancing through the branches and offer some much-needed escapism to lift the January blues and brighten your spirits. There’ll be more lights and opportunities for you to take family photos, and the beautiful owls will feature in the finale with a live display in their wonderful woodland arena, where the trees will be

Ever wondered if there is a 'local ladies choir near me or nearby'? The local Salisbury choir is run by singing teacher Charlotte Mutch-Jones. The choir will be performing locally again soon so it's a chance for you to join in, sing and perform without pressure and under the supportive guidance of Charlotte. Rock Choir members have performed and sung across the country at venues including Wembley Stadium for the record breaking Saracens versus Harlequins rugby league game in 2012, on top of the BT tower and many more iconic landmarks. The choir also has a charitable function in raising money and awareness for Missing People and Refuge.

Joining a choir can be a brave step to take for some and in light of this Charlotte tries to make it as easy as possible for you by giving the opportunity to have a FREE taster session and then to have a chat with her about singing. Rock Choir is the leading group in community singing. We launched our FREE choir taster sessions back in 2005 and have 17 years experience giving members of the public who are new to community choirs the chance to try joining a choir without the need to audition or read music. Make sure you book online at www.rockchoir.com

A riotous night of comedy, cabaret and chaos. Circus tricksters, magnificent magicians with weird and wonderful surprises. A show for all ages shapes and sizes. Featuring favourites from Hat Fair festival and some new faces. Running time: 1hr 40mins (plus interval) Pick Your Price - Option 1 - £27, Option 2 (recommended price) - £21, Option 3 - £15, Option 4 - £9. Contact telephone: 01962 840 440 Call to check latest times or cancellations.

Winchester Ghost Tours

Museum to hear her insightful and personal perspective on war. Liz was the longest serving female crewman on the Royal Air Force Chinook Fleet spanning a 17 year career flying on the aircraft. She was also the youngest aircrew to deploy to Iraq aged 21 and the only female crewman on the Chinook wing for four years. £10 or £6 pay per view online. Contact telephone: 01264781086 Call to check latest times or cancellations.

Friday Wednesday 1st Feb

From 7.30pm

The Lights, Andover, SP10 1AH

Friday 20 Jan to Fri 24 Feb

From 8.30 to 9.45pm

The Buttercross, High Street Winchester, SO23 9AH

Surround yourself with Winchester's haunting past in this award-winning theatrical ghost tour. Get ready to scream as you come face-to-face with the city’s ghosts including Sir Walter Raleigh, Ethelred, the unready, the Gaoler and so many more. You’ll uncover accounts of betrayal, death and torture and so much more! Tours take place in all weathers. Rated PG and we booking in advance is essential £9pp - Contact telephone: 07305826116 Call to check latest times or cancellations.

Chinook Crew Chick

Join Liz McConaghy at the

Carpenters Gold

Immerse yourself in an enchanting evening featuring the musical brilliance of Richard and Karen Carpenter. From Close to You to Top of the World, all their chart-topping hits feature including We’ve Only Just Begun, Goodbye to Love, Please Mr Postman, For All We Know and Only Yesterday. All superbly performed live in concert, just as they would have been by The Carpenters back in the day at the Talk of the Town, London Palladium, and their International tours including Japan. Indeed, West End star and director Vikki Holland-Bowyer not only perfectly emulates Karen’s legendary rich contralto, she even gets behind the drums!

If you would like your event included FREE email: editor@forumpublications.co.uk

Fasting & Veganuary

Many of us gain a few extra pounds over the festive season. Unfortunately most diets fail because they are hard to sustain. The exception: intermittent fasting*. Integral to many cultures and religions, this time-honoured practice has enjoyed renewed favour because of its many benefits:

Not only does it help with weight management, it is also anti-ageing, lowers inflammation and cholesterol, protects cells from damage, stimulates stem cells, improves immunity and mood. Fasting sends

hunger signals to the brain. When these are ignored, the body interprets a famine situation and switches from growth to repair mode.

There are many ways to do it so consider which is best for you: from 5:2 (eat normally for 5 days, restrict calories for 2 days) to fasting overnight for 12-16 hours (eg eating dinner by 7pm and breakfast from 7am). Your meals must be healthy and well-balanced to ensure your body is getting the essential nutrition. When done correctly, fasting is not only sustainable but many find they feel healthier and have more energy.

While many have become vegan, Veganuary is a chance for others to try. The benefits may include improved athletic performance and glycaemic control, weight loss, greater health and longevity as well as the environmental considerations. Sadly too often it is done incorrectly and key nutrients become deficient. The main ones to consider are: vitamins B12 and D, Omega 3, calcium, zinc and iron. Beware of consuming excess oils and sugars and ensure you get enough protein. Learn how to combine vegetarian proteins correctly. Lastly, there are many factors, including genetic disposition, which mean it’s not right for everyone: if it doesn’t work for you, listen to your body and stop.

Olivia Smart, Nutritional Therapist & Naturopath www.natrolive.com Book a FREE 15 minute call to find out how I can help you: olivia@natrolive.com

*DON’T FAST if you are: under 18 or elderly, pregnant, underweight or have an eating disorder, type 1 diabetic; and check with your GP if you are on medication or unwell.

3. Whisk by hand. Eggs need beating? Sauce need stirring? Bread need kneading? Cake need churning? Be your own food processor and process by hand.

Let’s get really smart with our movement and incorporate it into our daily routines. I love to create goals, intentions and dream, both big and small when a new year comes around. For me it’s the time for some blue-sky thinking, free brain flow and a sense of freshness, newness and the dawning of a whole year’s worth of exciting opportunity!

This year is no exception as I look forward with a head full of ideas and plans spanning the 4 areas of my Desire Map:

• Livelihood and Lifestyle

• Body and Wellness

• Creativity and Learning

• Relationships and Society

I’m going to share my plan for Body and Wellness with you as it’s all about efficient, daily movement goals that you will be able to incorporate into your day just as easily as I can.

Here are the 10 things I pledge to do every day. By the time you have tried all 10 you will see that you will have moved every joint, muscle and fascial chain throughout the entire body and not had to get changed, join an exercise class or use any kit!

Are you still with me? Good! Ok, here we go…

1. Untuck your butt. Every time you’re standing in a queue check where your butts at, and gently back it up so your hip joints stack over your knees and ankles.

2. Use the loo upstairs. Whether you’re at home or work, always use the loo that involves stairs.

4. Head ramp. Every time you’re in the car, back your head up with a little chin tuck so the back of your head lightly touches the head rest (back your head rest up too!)

5. Floor sit. Every time you watch TV or use any screen, sit on the floor.

6. Walk at least 20 minutes per day non-stop. Make this a non-negotiable, prioritised, ring fenced, highlighted entry in your diary.

7. Take the stairs two at a time. Open up the hips and engage those glutes.

8. Create a movement snack routine to break up hours of sitting. For every 30-60 minutes of sitting, move for 3 minutes. Try: 5 squats, 5 lateral lunges, 5 push ups, 5 side planks, 5 split squats. I’ve made a video of this, so you don’t even have to think what you’re doing, just follow me! Go here: https://youtu.be/fCS9w55Ekhg

9. Every time you walk through a door frame, grab the top for 10 seconds and stretch, hang, swing, or whatever feels good

10. Keep your favourite mug on the highest shelf, and your favourite snack on the lowest shelf – see what I’m doing here?

Sneaky 11. Join Womo Women’s Health course this January if you’d like me to be your health coach for 6 weeks to set you up for a lifetime of feeling better. In the words of a recent member ‘it’s transformational’.

Nothing too complicated or time consuming about these tasks is there? It’s just the gap from idea to action that might seem like a chasm! So make it easy for yourself. Pop a sticky note on your door frame, set an alarm on your computer, ask a friend to commit to a task with you, create a floor sitting nook, or pop a padlock on the downstairs loo!

Prepare to succeed! You’ve got this.

Happy New Year to you x Emma Wightman www.the-sop.com

Let’s not aim to move more (yawn) for 2023, let’s aim to move better.

• 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

New Year Venison Stew with Juniper & Prunes

SERVES 4-6

Preparation time 30 minutes

Cooking time 2 - 2 1/4 hours, plus 30 mins resting time Oven temperature 160 degrees centigrade

Hampshire is blessed with its ready supply of wild venison and the winter months are the season to enjoy some of nature’s local larder. The combination of the sweetness of the prunes and the aromatic herbs and juniper makes it a perfect supper dish ideal for the cold January nights. It is best served with a large bowl of mashed potatoes and some steamed winter greens.

Ingredients

750 g shoulder of wild venison cut into 5 cms cubes

350g salt pork cut into 5cms cubes

2 red onions roughly chopped

2 peeled cubed carrots

4 garlic cloves crushed

3 tablespoons plain flour

1 tablespoon tomato puree

300ml red wine

550ml beef stock

10 crushed juniper berries

2 sprigs fresh rosemary

3 bay leaves

2 tablespoons honey 12 pitted ready to eat prunes

To garnish Chopped fresh flat parsley

Method

Season the venison with salt and pepper and in small batches brown all over in a little vegetable oil and butter. Brown the salt pork. Add a little more oil to the pan and fry together the onions, garlic, and carrots for 5 minutes until a golden caramel colour. Put all of the above in a flame-proof casserole dish and add the flour mixing in well. Stir in the red wine and beef stock and bring to the boil. Add the rosemary, juniper, bay leaves, honey and prunes and adjust the seasoning to taste. Cover with a tight fitting lid and cook in the prepared oven for 75 minutes. Remove from the oven and check that the meat is tender. If necessary continue to cook for an additional fifteen minutes. Remove the casserole and with the lid on, allow the venison to rest for 30 minutes. Before serving stir in the chopped parsley.

Two Janes Catering

You can see us on D E twojanescatering

The Mayor of Test Valley, Cllr Alan Dowden, Christmas Message 2022

2022 was a significant year for us all. The Covid virus shocked us into a recognition of just how fragile our world is. It also reminded us of what really matters – our health, community spirit and our solidarity. We have come to value those we rely on most – our doctors, nurses and all health care workers who are at the fore of our defence against this virus.

Over the last two years we have been asked to stay away from loved ones to protect them. Then, earlier this year with the easing of Covid restrictions, we have been able to enjoy getting out and about, meeting family and friends and in June, to take part in the celebrations for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. And what wonderful events they were as people across the borough acknowledged the dedication and commitment of Queen Elizabeth II. An accident in May left me immobile for many weeks. So, the Mayoress attended the Jubilee events, on my behalf, recounting to me each time how much she had enjoyed them.

Now that I am back on my feet, albeit quite a lot slower, I particularly enjoyed hosting an event at Jermyns House and the internationally renowned Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. We received many compliments about the gardens from Hampshire Civic Heads.

My wife, Celia, and I have been able to attend engagements and meet many people in groups, organisations and business across Test Valley. There are so many different ways in which people are actively involved and contributing really positively to our community. We are fortunate to have a wonderful richness of voluntary groups and many organisations, who are working hard to make Test Valley a really special place. And on a smaller scale, there are many examples of likeminded people joining together, getting their voices heard and making a difference. They are the unsung heroes of our community, who contribute so much in all sorts of ways.

This year is also significant for monumental events: The invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces. This war is bringing daily devastation to Ukraine and its people. Test Valley residents have opened their homes to support displaced Ukrainian families and willingly given support to send emergency help to Ukraine.

In September the passing of Queen Elizabeth II saw the country in mourning for our longest reigning monarch. But we felt pride at the pageantry and dignity of the funeral for our much loved and respected Queen. I was immensely proud to give the proclamation for King Charles III and to know that I will be Mayor when His Majesty is crowned.

The financial instability, due to many influences and factors, has, and will, take a toll. The rise in energy prices and the cost of living generally is deeply worrying for many residents. Residents can contact Test Valley Council for advice and support, via the webpage or directly.

But, this year we can choose to celebrate our festival of Christmas without excessive spending. A simpler Christmas, some may say, as they used to be. It can still be that special family time when we get together with those we love. Time together is a present we give, worth more than any gift. We can reach out to those around us in the community who are alone, and share some time with them during the festive days.

Celia and I wish you a very Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year

The Mayor & Mayoress - Cllrs Alan and Celia Dowden

JESSIE KEANE CELEBRATES 15 YEARS AS A TOP 10 BESTSELLING NOVELIST!

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

A win for gaming fans as new collectable shop opens in the Chantry Centre

A brand new pop-up shop, Collecteebles, has opened its doors in the Chantry Centre. Appealing to gaming fans and collectors, the shop will primarily specialise in selling Pokémon. The store will also stock some Magic, Yu-Gi-Oh, a vast range of gaming accessories, Hot Wheels, Top Trumps and board games. The pop-up is located next to Toy Arena in the centre and will be open seven days a week, with plans to host special gaming events going forward. Collecteebles has been active for the past four years and prior to opening the unit in the centre has been trading online and attending pop-up events and car boots sales in the local area. Collectables hosted an official opening day on Saturday 10 December. To celebrate the launch, the first few customers received a free gift with their purchase and visitors had the chance to learn how to play Pokémon.

The new shop is the latest to open in Andover’s indoor shopping mall, following the likes of Boba World, Yana Vintage and Celebration Cube. After trading online for the past few years, we have now been able to offer the business a secure indoor space in the Chantry Centre to not only sell their goods, but also host special gaming events as well.

Test Valley Borough Council has ambitious plans for the future of the Chantry Centre as part of the town centre redevelopment project. In the meantime the council is actively looking at options for the building’s underutilised space. The council operates a flexible easy-in, easy-out scheme for local retailers who may wish to trial a short term residence in a retail unit and raise their profile in the town before making a longer term commitment. Anyone interested in a Chantry Centre pop-up shop can contact the Chantry Centre management team at ccmanagement@testvalley.gov.uk

Museum continues to build on event success

Following on from their successful Autumn season, the Army Flying Museum at Middle Wallop hopes to continue bringing new audiences through its doors as it announces its first collaboration with The Brick People. On the weekend of the 4th and 5th of February, the Museum will stage a large-scale event featuring a wide range of LEGO® related activities which is sure to attract enthusiasts of all ages from far and wide. Nestled amongst the historic aircraft in the Museum, visitors will have the opportunity to build super flying machines out of LEGO® bricks, take part in a speed build challenge, complete an anagram trail around the Museum and browse a wide range of models on display. There will also be a LEGO® Duplo® area for younger builders. Steve Hodges Co-Founder of The Brick People said: "We are excited to be able to bring our popular events featuring LEGO® bricks, to the Army Flying Museum in February 2023.

The launch of this event follows on from a wide range of events that the Museum has staged this Autumn, with visitor figures above average for both October and November. Chief Executive of the Army Flying Museum Lucy Johnson said: “It has been wonderful to see so many new faces through our doors, not only to enjoy our wide range of new events, but also to learn about the history of army aviation and enjoy the sights on the adjacent airfield as the Apache helicopters fly by. We are really excited about our collaboration with The Brick People and think the surroundings of the Museum will make this a very special event indeed.”

The event will run across the weekend of 4th/5th February with two sessions per day and bookings can be made via the Museum website at www.armyflying,com

Charlotte Stuart Interiors is a local Hampshire interior design studio working with home owners in the Test Valley, Winchester and London area. Here, we hope to share our design expertise, tips and tricks and some colourful inspiration along the way.

Founder Charlotte is a professionally qualified interior designer, member of the BIID and former Colour Consultant at Farrow & Ball, offering a wealth of experience from the interiors industry.

As an Interior Design Studio, our projects range in size and scope. From designing a single room to full property renovations, we work alongside trusted tradespeople and a high-quality finish is imperative to our vision. Our practice is flexible, which means we can tailor a package to suit our clients. This could mean an hourly consultancy or a fixed fee for larger projects. Our hardworking, professional team are warm and friendly, aiming to make the design process enjoyable and to exceed expectations.

We lead clients through the full end-to-end Interior Design service for building projects, helping them make those all-important decisions. This includes sourcing brands and suppliers across the spectrum of the project, and recommendations for local artisans and tradespeople.

We specialise in window treatments, upholstery, soft furnishings and joinery, creating beautiful homes that flow cohesively throughout. We understand the business of the budget, so through sharing our advice on where to spend and where to save, we ensure a successful delivery of every project.

In addition to this, we offer an hourly Interior Consultancy service to help with anything from paint choices and fabrics, to making the best of existing furniture or new additional pieces. This is a more flexible design approach, perfect for clients who know their own style but just need that vote of confidence to either get going with a project, or help to complete it.

Supported by a small team, Charlotte collaborates closely with her clients to elevate their ideas into stylish and practical homes. She believes interior design is highly personal, and that we are attracted to colours and styles that reflect us. Part of her expertise lies in understanding clients’ tastes and preferences, then carefully considering all the elements from decorative to functional, for longevity.

Please get in touch if you have an interiors project in mind, we would be delighted to hear from you to discuss how we can help.

Come and visit our website at www.charlottestuartinteriors.co.uk Or find us for further inspiration on: Instagram @charlotte_stuart_interiors

Email: info@charlottestuartinteriors.co.uk

Contact Number: 07973 886 152

Hello, and a warm welcome to our monthly interiors column to begin this New Year!

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