Test Valley Forum - Issue 174 - February 2023

A detached, 4 bedroom, new house in an elevated location with outstanding views, and a short walk from Stockbridge High Street. Being built to a high specification with Air Source Heating, PV on roof with battery storage, and many other eco features.

The accommodation comprises: kitchen/breakfast room, dining room, sitting room with wood burner, family room, study, utility room. 4 bedrooms, 2 ensuites, 1 family bathroom. Terrace, garage, gardens in all 0.35 acres.

A brilliantly

The accommodation comprises: kitchen, utility area, sitting room with log burner, family room, 3 bedrooms, bedroom 4/study, 2 bathrooms, garden room. Garage/car port. Gardens to front and rear with southwest aspect terrace.

positioned, bright property enjoying far reaching views over The River Test and Stockbridge Common.

The Team

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 New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QE 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

Take (It) Away

“What do you fancy on Tuesday? We could get fish and chips,” she suggested.

Valentine’s night, arriving after (largely) virtuous weeks of salads and vegetables since the overindulgence of Christmas, heralded a treat of forbidden carbs and fried foods. In a landscape of galloping inflation, they had opted to dine in.

Himself considered... “What about an Indian takeaway? We won’t even have to leave the house for that - since Covid they deliver out here.”

Himself went on. “A global pandemic causing devastation in the lives of families everywhere. Lockdowns that affected the mental health of many and altered the working practices of companies and institutions. A disease that cost the UK hundreds of billions of pounds and… delivered tikka masala to our doorstep.”

“It’s an ill wind – as my mother would have said,” she commented wryly as she looked at an on-line takeaway menu.

“Looks like their prices have gone up,” she observed. “Well, how about chicken in a bucket, then. Bargain.”

“Ditto – inflation has hit the humble drumstick and spud I’m afraid. And do you know, it’s nothing that I can’t cook, at a fraction of the price too.” She announced with confidence. “Pretty sure I can find the secret recipe containing eleven herbs and spices somewhere on the net.”

“But Darling, the point of a take-away is that you don’t have to cook. We haven’t had Chinese food for a while. Perhaps we could splash out on one of those. Sweet and sour crispy chicken balls and some ribs shouldn’t be too expensive. And they deliver. If you like, you could cook the rice – that would save some money.”

“Rice?” she announced, incredulously. “I can do better than that! I can cook a whole Chinese meal – no problemo..”

“Are you sure? What about specialist ingredients?” He looked dubious.

“Remember the great liquid glucose hunt of 1990?” Himself gave her an appraising look. “We scoured the South of England for the vital ingredient of Delia Smith’s chocolate truffle torte – to no avail. As I recall, you made a chocolate mousse instead for the dinner party. Was delicious.”

“As I recall, you found me in the kitchen fuming over soft peak egg whites and banging on about showstoppers.” She blushed at the memory.

“Yes, well you were a bit intense and focused about your cooking in those days, Darling.” Himself said kindly.

“And apparently nothing has changed,” she murmured, “because I’m going

to produce the best Chinese meal. Ever.” The bit between her teeth, she again consulted the interweb.

“What we have now,” she said as she jabbed and swiped her phone, “that we didn’t in 1990, is one’s heart’s desire courtesy of a search engine.”

Over the next few days deliveries appeared.

“Another for you darling,” Himself dropped a package into her lap. A corner cupboard and the fridge were filling up with exotic bits and pieces and when the day arrived, she used them all. Grinding, whisking, stirring, chopping. Sesame oil and fish sauce. Ginger, star anise and Sichuan peppercorns. Spring onions, straw mushrooms and rice wine vinegar. Ribs, prawns and chicken – mange tout and water chestnuts. Bamboo shoots and beansprouts. Every inch of the work surfaces was covered and every utensil utilised.

“Been burgled by the cast and crew of masterchef?” Himself exclaimed as she raised her hot, flushed face from feverishly frying spring rolls.

“I know,” she said tiredly. “I had no idea how much work was involved producing a set meal for two. But it’s nearly ready. Just the prawn crackers left to do..”

Presently they sat down at a table groaning with all of their favourites and Himself tucked in. “It’s nice. Not quite the same, but.. nice...” Lukewarm praise, she thought, but secretly agreed. “Was it much cheaper than a takeaway?” He asked, hesitantly. She looked furtive and sipped her drink. “Um I think it will be. You know. In the long run.” Her eyes darted guiltily about the room. “When I’ve made a few more meals and used up all the spices and sauces. There seems to be a lot of pak choi and baby sweetcorn left in the fridge. And duck – I had to buy a whole one for the crispy duck pancakes. Plus a new wok of course..” She trailed off and slumped in her chair, picking unenthusiastically at her egg fried rice.

“Darling,” Himself asked “aren’t you very hungry?”

“I’ve been cooking all day and I’m sick of the sight and smell of it!” she announced wearily.

Himself laughed. “No problemo. Let me just… take it away!” He rose and removed her plate, scraping the food onto his own. Wielding chopsticks with one hand he scrolled his phone with the thumb on his other. “There. I’ve ordered you fish and chips. Apparently since Covid they deliver that out here too...”

Before Makeover After Makeover

Make your OLD kitchen a NEW kitchen for a fraction of the cost of buying a new kitchen

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

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

Thank you Ben, Dan and James. Mr Wyatt, Winchester

Happy Kitchens are quite unique as we are able to offer top quality products, available in any size, fitted by the best professionals in the business. Change your kitchen and bedroom with a makeover or design and install a new kitchen and bedroom, whichever suits your needs or price range.

Are You Septic Smart?

All across rural Hampshire, there are properties that are disconnected from the main sewer system. Instead, these properties use private 'off-mains' alternatives: cesspits, septic tanks, and sewage treatment plants. The three types vary in how they store, treat, and release waste, but aren’t a cause for concern when working well.

When something goes wrong, however, both people and wildlife are put at risk. While off-mains properties are in the minority, they have the potential to massively impact their surrounding environment. This is because systems that are incorrectly sized, sited, or maintained can cause chronic sewage pollution.

This pollution can damage homes and gardens, but is also rich in nitrogen and phosphorus - highly effective fertilisers. When it gets into our local chalk streams, it encourages the rapid growth of algae. The resulting ‘blooms’ starve the streams of sunlight and oxygen, with devastating consequences for wildlife.

The contamination of our waterways is especially serious in Hampshire, where pollutants can easily reach the underground chalk aquifer. As the source of both our chalk streams and most of our drinking water, this natural wonder is hugely important. Once inside, pollutants may continue to emerge even years later.

Luckily, expensive repairs and environmental harm can be avoided with a little know-how. Owners are responsible for ensuring that their system is suitable for their property and the number of residents. They must schedule frequent emptying and maintenance, and perform regular checks for signs of trouble.

Swampy ground, pooling water, a leaking tank lid, a grey film on the ground, and spots of lush grass growth can all be clues that something is amiss. Inside the home, look out for sinks, showers, and toilets draining slowly or noisily. Staying alert to potential problems is the best way to fix them before they escalate.

Care over what gets ‘flushed’ is also key, as the wrong additions can make off-mains systems inefficient or non-functional. Oil, fat, food waste, ‘flushable’ wipes, and sanitary products can cause blockages. Medicines, chemicals, bleach, and drain cleaner can kill the bacteria that help to break down the waste.

Learn more about how to keep your system safe and effective, with the Septic Smart project. It forms part of the Watercress and Winterbournes scheme, which is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

To get involved, visit www.hiwwt.org.uk/septicsmart or email: winterbournes@hiwwt.org.uk.

Background Image: Algal bloom © Heike Kampe

Algal growth in river © Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust

Septic tank © Getty Images

What not to flush What not to flush

Does your home have a cesspit, septic tank, or small sewage treatment plant? Flushing the wrong things down your drains can cause expensive faults and environmental pollution.

Can cause blockages:

• Fat, oil, and grease

• Food waste

• Cotton buds

• ‘Flushable’ wipes

• Nappies and sanitary towels

Can kill waste-digesting bacteria:

• Medicines

• Disinfectants

• Antibacterial products

• Houseplant and garden pesticides

• Bleach, caustic soda, and drain cleaner

Learn how to dispose of these things safely: www.hiwwt.org.uk/septicsmart

Hampshire-Based Danebury Research Launches to Provide Global Market Research Services

January 2023 – Stockbridge, Hampshire. Following a successful soft launch at the end of 2022, full-service market research company, Danebury Research is now fully operational and ready to serve clients around the world. With access to a panel of over 200 million respondents, Danebury Research is able to conduct research on a global scale, working with both agencies and in-house teams to provide high-quality data and insights that inform business decision-making.

Founder and MD Paul Stallard explains: After working with agencies and in-house teams on their communications and research needs over the years, I can see that insight has never been more valuable. With economic pressures hitting most, now is not the time to be quiet and hope to ride out the storm. Nor is it the time to be reckless. This is where Danebury Research can help.

"Our team is dedicated to empowering brave decisions through the provision of reliable, accurate, and representative data. We look forward to working with clients and partners around the world to provide high-quality research that helps businesses achieve their marketing and business objectives."

Since it started trading in September from its office on the High Street in Stockbridge Hampshire, Danebury Research has hired its first two employees and already completed surveys in 16 different countries. The new business pipeline is rapidly filling with new clients. Paul Stallard continued: We’ve managed to pick up our first few projects in a short space of time which has allowed us to recruit and grow our team already. Danebury Research is ahead of schedule against its ambitious year one targets and I’m excited to grow the business from our base in Hampshire.

Here’s why one of the Stockbridges’ most trusted carpet cleaning companies is cleaning local, nearneighbours carpets for a fraction of the normal cost

and upholstery cleaning business, and we insist on providing you with good oldfashioned service and value. Call now and find out why our award-winning service is probably the most requested carpet cleaning in the local Stockbridge area

The next thing for you to do is call us on 01962 690 005we’ll welcome your call, answer your questions and take care of everything for you.

Great Deals!

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Upholstery

cleaning and (at our current Fabric Master, and cleaning and very effective. to their original you’ll see!

Danebury Research would also like to put on record its thanks to the Test Valley Borough Council for its support to date. During a period of economic uncertainty, the Council has reinforced its commitment to support the local economy by providing advice and guidance to Danebury Research ahead of launch. It also encouraged Danebury Research with a business incentive grant to help fund the cost of its new office.

For more information about Danebury Research and its market research services, please visit the company's website at www.daneburyresearch.com

The

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

1 £57 2 £77 3 £97 4 Carpet Price Carpet Price Carpet Price Carpet Full Offer Price List

February

Feeling a bit down in the dumps? Has your motivation for your resolutions run out? Coughs and colds taking their strain, or just feeling the cumulative effect of damp, cold, short days? February can be a challenging month for us, hence it’s often referred to as the ‘slump month’.

It doesn’t have to be like this, lets shake things up and put the thrill back into the month of love!

Stress, illness, poor nutrition and no exercise causes tissues to become inflamed and congested. Inflammation is like glue in the body, it is sticky and reduces the natural slide and glide between the tissue layers. The body begins to feel heavy and sluggish and our physical and mental energy deteriorates, leaving us feeling foggy headed, tired, bloated, constipated, slow to heal and prone to infection.

To generate freedom of movement within the fluids of the body, we must generate freedom of movement outside of the body. We can do this by improving how we move, stretch, relax and unwind each day. Our immunity suffers when our bodies our congested. The immune system relies on an efficient lymphatic system, but unlike the circulation of the blood, it doesn’t have a big heart pump, but relies on body movement to be the pump. The lymph system has areas of nodes, which are like little filters for the white blood cells, mainly found in the neck, arm pits, chest and groin. Interestingly, the areas for most of the nodes are situated near a joint – an area of maximal movement. Or should be an area of maximal movement!

But of course, what happens with lots of working, driving, sitting and sedentary time, these nodes don’t get enough stimulation and the lymphatic and immune system become compromised. So, I bring you this node-squishing-releasing exercise routine designed exclusively to target the joints where the nodes are most abundant. Go to my YouTube channel to follow along with me for a deeply nourishing 6 minute movement flow: Stockbridge Osteopathic practice www.youtu.be/1AJWpy4CXs4

Other fantastic options to support your immunity and boost energy are:

• a good brisk power walk

• a cold-water blast in the shower or sea

• a plate piled with organic colourful roasted veg, herby multi-grains and fresh fish sprinkled with toasted seeds

• focus on slowing your breath for 10 minutes while in the bath or sauna

• a deep and refreshing nights sleep in a screen-free and cool bedroom

• some restorative osteopathy sessions to un-stick you

Dump the slump and welcome freedom of movement!

Emma Wightman - www.the-sop.com

doesn’t have to be the ‘slump month’

organised, thoughtful, caring and friendly. Constantly go above and beyond."

Arthritis/General Fitness

Arthritis/General Fitness

Arthritis/General Fitness

Hydrotherapy Classes

Hydrotherapy Classes

Hydrotherapy Classes

Classes taken by our Chartered Physiotherapist who designs exercises adapted to suit your level of ability

Classes taken by our Chartered Physiotherapist who designs exercises adapted to suit your level of ability

Classes taken by our Chartered Physiotherapist who designs exercises adapted to suit your level of ability

Thursdays 1.45- 2.15pm

Thursdays 1.45- 2.15pm

Thursdays 1.45- 2.15pm

At Farleigh School Pool, Andover, SP11 7PW

At Farleigh School Pool, Andover, SP11 7PW

At Farleigh School Pool, Andover, SP11 7PW

Tel: 07966 927439

Tel: 07966 927439

Email: admin@regionalarthritishydrotherapy.com

Tel: 07966 927439

Email: admin@regionalarthritishydrotherapy.com

Website: www.regionalarthritishydro.com

Email: admin@regionalarthritishydrotherapy.com

Website: www.regionalarthritishydro.com

Registered Charity 1171462

Website: www.regionalarthritishydro.com

Registered Charity 1171462

Registered Charity 1171462

Council ploughing ahead with regeneration plans despite funding disappointment

Test Valley Borough Council is cracking on with its regeneration plans for Andover town centre, despite receiving news that it would not receive a share of the government’s Levelling Up Fund (LUF) to accelerate delivery of parts of the masterplan.

The authority submitted a bid for £20.3 million last summer to help accelerate the redevelopment of the town, extending the riverside park along Western Avenue, transforming the riverside footpath south of Bridge Street, creating a new The Lights theatre and cultural hub in the heart of town centre and demolishing the former magistrates’ court building in preparation for the wellbeing quarter.

But despite the blow, TVBC is already busy progressing with its original plan, which was in motion before it applied for the funding and will still enable the council to move forward with the next part of the scheme following the recent works to Town Mills. The authority expects to take the proposal to a council meeting in February.

The council also recently received confirmation that it will receive a £1M share of the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), with more than £620K going towards extending the teaching facilities within the Andover College campus to help deliver T Level courses in construction skills, bricklaying and carpentry, as well as the expansion of the new Andover Health Hub in the Chantry Centre, which opened earlier this month.

Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said: “We are obviously incredibly disappointed that we didn’t receive a share of the Levelling Up Fund - and although it was always going to be a long shot - did everything we possibly could to give ourselves the very best chance of securing the money. I’d like to say a big thank you to all those involved in the bid and the partners who supported it, including Andover Vision, Hampshire County Council and the Enterprise M3 Local Enterprise Partnership, and I’m pleased to say that they remain committed to supporting our plans.

“I cannot stress enough that while this funding would have helped to accelerate the masterplan, we are still determined to deliver the plans which received overwhelming support from the community, and transform the town centre as intended. While waiting to hear the outcome of the LUF bid, we have continued with our original plans, and we will be announcing further details over the coming weeks. The government has also indicated that there will be a third round of funding, which we will certainly pursue if that does come to fruition. This, alongside the recent news about the UKSPF, means that we have lots to be positive about, particularly as the funding for the college and Andover Health Hub enables us to take significant steps towards delivering our aspirations for the masterplan.

“These things do take time, because we have a once in a generation opportunity to get this right and do the town justice. But we are moving things forward as quickly as we can, and I want to reassure people that the diggers will be in the ground as soon as possible.

“In the meantime, our events calendar for this year is already jampacked, with bigger and better events than ever before. So there is lots to look forward to.”

MONTHLY ANTIQUES & INTERIORS AUCTION Sat 11th February

Viewing: Friday 10am on Fri 10th February, 8.30am on Sat 11th February. Bidding starts at 9.30am

Wed 1st & Thur 23rd February 2023

www.andrewsmithandson.com

Enquiries:

Caffia

Davina's Fashion of Warsash

Your local independent ladies’ fashion retailer catering for the discerning lady who likes stylish every day wear ideal for the home or office. Come and see what we have to offer. You’ll be pleasantly surprised with both the quality and the price. We also have a range of Mother of the Bride/Groom wear.

Find us in Warsash next to the Coop near the Clocktower. Free car parking available opposite.

Tel: 01489 880900 or shop online at: www.davinasladiesfashion.co.uk

7 Warsash Road, Warsash, Southampton, SO31 9HW Open Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm

We are your local independent fashion retailer located in Warsash adjacent to the Co-op and Clocktower. We have been established for 25 years, originally in Fareham, and in Warsash since 2018.

We have a full range of general clothing comprising dresses, tops, trousers, jeans and jackets. Our range goes from jeans to evening wear. We are currently receiving our latest spring and summer collections. This includes some fabulous summer dresses in resplendent colours. We also stock the Marble colourful range of sweaters and trousers at very reasonable prices. There are 3 rooms fully stocked and we welcome customers to come in and browse. We also welcome husbands and partners who wish to buy a surprise gift for their special lady. They are also encouraged to accompany you and help select your new wardrobe. Please don’t think our prices are out of your range deterring you from coming in. Do give us a try. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at both the quality and price.

We have a reputation for Condici Mother of the Bride/Groom outfits and currently have a choice of 140 to choose from. We also stock matching hats, hatinators, shoes and clutch bags making us a “one stop shop”.

There is a carpark opposite which is free for 4 hours. We hope we have enticed you to give us a try.

Do visit our website at www.davinasladiesfashion.co.uk which is a showcase of some of what we have to offer.

Stockbridge Music - The Morassi Quartet

Natasha, Katie and Iza are all RCM postgraduates, pursuing their Masters degrees and freelancing, while Toby is currently on trial with the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

The programme has yet to be finalised, but will include a selection from pieces by Rachmaninov, Puccini, Haydn, Mendelssohn and Bacewicz. Tickets £20 (U18s £7.50) from stockbridgemusic.uk or on the door.

Friday 3 March 2023, 7.30pm

St Peters Church Stockbridge SO20 6HE

Giving young musicians a platform: the first concert of 2023 in Stockbridge Music’s young musicians’ series.

Natasha Humphries (violin), Katie Mazur (violin), Toby Warr (viola), Iza Stefańska (cello). The Morassi Quartet was formed in 2018 at the Royal College of Music by violinists Natasha Humphries and Katie Mazur, the members of The Morassi Quartet have already had an exceptional start to their musical careers.

As well as performing in many RCM concerts, including the annual Chamber Music Festival, FestivALL, and the Essential Bartók and Legacy of Vaughan Williams series, the quartet has appeared at the Berkshire Chamber Music and Dartington Music Festivals alongside the Brodsky Quartet, and at venues including the Royal Festival Hall, Snape Maltings and Sage Gateshead. They have also toured abroad extensively, including to France, Austria, Germany, Poland, Russia and China.

Salisbury Chamber Chorus: Mozart’s Requiem

Saturday 18 March 7.30pm

St Peters Church, Stockbridge SO20 6HE

This is an additional concert: Stockbridge Music is pleased to be providing a box office service for Salisbury Chamber Chorus for this performance.

We are delighted that Salisbury Chamber Chorus has chosen Stockbridge as a venue for a performance of Mozart’s famous Requiem, both his final piece, and also one of his most familiar. In addition, the Salisbury-based choir will be performing four choruses from Mozart’s opera Idomeneo; less well-known, but perfect curtain raisers. SCC will be joined by the Nova Foresta Classical Players for this concert. Tickets £15 (U18s free) from stockbridgemusic.uk or on the door.

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Design, landscaping and ongoing maintenance

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Changing the story of your home

So, begin with the grand declutter. Ditch any items you no longer need or use. This will not only free up space, but it will also give your home a cleaner and more organized look. Introducing a variety of plants to your home not only helps to purify the air, but they also add colour and texture to a space. Sometimes, a simple change in furniture placement can make a room feel completely different. Move your sofa to a different wall, or try rotating your artwork.

One of my favourite ways to breathe new life into a home is to update some of the textiles, whether that be refreshing the kitchen table with a new tablecloth, or bringing in new curtains or blinds to the living areas. Adding a new rug can help define a space and bring all the elements of a room together. It’s amazing what a big difference soft furnishings can make in the look and feel of a space.

It’s the Year of the Rabbit, and in Chinese culture it is traditional to thoroughly clean the house on the eve of New Year, to sweep away any ill fortunes and make way for incoming good luck. I love how this tradition is full of positive intention.

February arrives, the decorations are down, and all the sparkle of Christmas is gone. What can we do to reignite a positive energy into our home, for a fresh start to the New Year?

The home can be embellished beyond its basic function to become a reflection of how we think, feel and express ourselves. And like our expanding minds, this can change over time.

These are just a few suggestions, the most important thing is that your home should reflect your personal style and make you feel happy and content. If you’d like some help re-imagining your home this year, we offer a comprehensive Interior Design Service as well as a more informal Interior Consultancy Service. All the details of both can be found on our website. Head over to our instagram page for lots more inspiration @charlotte_stuart_interiors

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

Local Events

Stockbridge Antiques Fair

Saturday 4 Feb & Sat 4 Mar

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. Contacts: Carol - 01264 335769 / 07870 432805 -- Steve - 01722 712267 / 07915 663251

Stockbridge Amateur Dramatic Society’s Curtain Calls…

Tuesday 7 February

From 7.30pm

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

Come and be entertained by readings and performances from plays, poems and novels - and often songs. You don’t have to be a member of SADS to come along, (but we’d love it if you’d join) We’re always looking for new blood to act, direct and be part of the backstage team. No experience necessary! Stockbridgeamdrams@gmail. com or find us on Facebook

Stockbridge Cinema Azor (15)

Friday 10 February

From 7.30pm

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

Argentina, the late 1970s in the midst of a dictatorship. Private banker Yvan arrives from Geneva with his wife Ines to replace a colleague who has mysteriously disappeared in military-ruled Buenos Aires. Moving through the smoke-filled lounges and lush gardens of a society under intense surveillance, he finds

himself untangling a sinister web of colonialism, high finance, and a nation's "Dirty War”. (In English French and Spanish with subtitles). 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) from the 1st of each month. Visit our website for more details.

Stockbridge Cinema Mrs Harris Goes to Paris (15)

Friday 15 February

At 4.45pm and 7.30pm

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

In 1950s London, a widowed cleaning lady (Lesley Manville) falls madly in love with a couture Dior dress, deciding she must have one of her own. After working to raise the funds to pursue her dream, she embarks on an adventure to Paris that will change not only her own outlook - but the very future of the House of Dior. 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) from the 1st of each month. Visit our website for more details.

Somborne Players Pantomime - Aladdin

Saturday 18 February

Doors open 2pm

Kings Somborne Village Hall, Kings Somborne, SO20 6PP

Our 31st Pantomime as we head off to Old Peking for Aladdin! The Somborne Players present the amazing story of a boy, a lamp, and a genie. A traditional pantomime which returns to spread magic across King’s Somborne in 2023. Abanaza, the wicked magician, is obsessed

with world domination and needs Aladdin, the laundry boy, to help him recover a magic lamp with mystical powers. Aladdin, meanwhile, has his eyes set on Princess Jasmine. This year’s panto is a perfect treat for the whole family. We look forward to seeing you.

Operation Codecracker - Half Term Family Fun

Monday 13 Feb to Friday 17 Feb

from 10.30am to 1.30pm. Visit the Army Flying Museum during February Half Term (Monday 13th February to Friday 17th February) between 10.30am and 1.30pm for craft activities with a focus on secret agents, code breaking and great escapes. Are you up to the challenge? Plus, there will be a fun trail to test your investigative skills. No extra charges apply –included in normal admission.

Ukraine – What’s Needed Now

Major-General

Tim Toyne SewellCommandant RMA

Sandhurst 1991-94, will be speaking about the importance of leadership in the context of the Ukraine situation at Stockbridge Town Hall on Friday 17th February, as part of a briefing evening run by the Stockbridge-Ukraine Group.

Tim’s military career (1959-1994) included being Chief of Staff Falkland Islands (1983) and commanding 19th Infantry Brigade, to training, amalgamating and creating a new army from the opposing Zimbabwean factions at the end of the civil war (1980). Finally, he was Commandant of RMA Sandhurst, with its worldwide reputation for young officer leadership training. As Commandant he paid interesting visits to the Russian Military Academy and to West Point. His distinguished post-military career made best use of his expertise in this field. He will talk about leadership in the Ukrainian conflict, and take questions.

Second speaker, Charlie Hutchinson, has spent six years in Eastern Ukraine deployed by the FCDO as a military observer to the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Charlie will fascinate with his direct experiences in eastern Ukraine, both in the separatist areas and the government held territory (Mariupol, at that time), together with his impressions from a recent return visit.

The evening will finish with inspirational Chilbolton mum, Harriet Asher, telling us why, desperate to help, she travelled to Poland but found herself crossing the border into Ukraine. There she quickly identified a need for safe travel for refugees. She set up a Go Fund me page to pay for accommodation, coaches and air travel. Harriet will update us on her ongoing humanitarian efforts, now sourcing items required on the ground in Ukraine, these have ranged from generators and medical supplies to warm clothing for orphans.

This is a fund raising event. Tickets are £10 and can be purchased from Ukraine - what is needed now? Tickets, Fri 17 Feb 2023 at 18:00 | Eventbrite Doors and bar open at 6 pm, first speaker at 6.30 pm. All proceeds from ticket sales and fund raising will be used to fund generators, medical supplies and other items required on the ground in Ukraine.

for domestic heating, there are no plans to ban woodburning stoves.

domestic heating, there are no plans to ban woodburning stoves.

domestic heating, there are no plans to ban woodburning stoves.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires. For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

883776

883776

883776

Valentine's Day Red Velvet Cake

Ingredients

• 360g cake flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 2 Tablespoons (10g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 115g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

• 400g granulated sugar

• 240ml rapeseed or vegetable oil

• 4 large eggs, room temperature and separated

• 1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar

• liquid or gel red food coloring

• 240ml buttermilk, at room temperature

Cream Cheese Icing

450g full-fat block cream cheese, softened to room temperature

170g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

660g icing sugar

1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract pinch of salt, to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans, line with parchment paper rounds, then grease the parchment paper. Parchment paper helps the cakes seamlessly release from the pans.

Make the cake: Whisk the flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Set aside. Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until combined, about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed. Add the oil, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and vinegar and beat on high for 2 minutes. (Set the egg whites aside.) Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.

With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in 2-3 additions alternating with the buttermilk. Beat in your desired amount of food coloring just until combined. I use 1-2 teaspoons gel food coloring. Vigorously whisk or beat the 4 egg whites on high speed until fluffy peaks form as pictured above, about 3 minutes. Gently fold into cake batter. The batter will be silky and slightly thick.

Divide batter between cake pans. Bake for 30-32 minutes or until the tops of the cakes spring back when gently touched and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the cakes need a little longer as determined by wet crumbs on the toothpick, bake for longer. However, careful not to overbake as the cakes may dry out. Remove cakes from the oven and cool completely in the pans set on a wire rack. The cakes must be completely cool before frosting and assembling.

Make the Icing: In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a whisk or paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium-high speed until smooth, about 2 minutes. Add the icing sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to high speed and beat for 3 minutes until completely combined and creamy. Add more icing sugar if the icing is too thin or an extra pinch of salt if icing is too sweet. Icing should be soft, but not runny.

Assemble and add icing: Using a large serrated knife, slice a thin layer off the tops of the cakes to create a flat surface. Discard or crumble over finished cake. Place 1 cake layer on your cake stand or serving plate. Evenly cover the top with icing. Top with 2nd layer and spread remaining icing all over the top and sides. I always use an icing spatula and bench scraper for the icing. Refrigerate cake for at least 30-60 minutes before slicing. This helps the cake hold its shape when cutting.

Cover leftover cake tightly and store in the refrigerator for 5 days. Iced cake or un-iced cake layers can be frozen up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before decorating/serving.

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Origin Valentine'sofDay

People have been in love from time immemorial. It would be unjust to ascribe any particular history and origin to love and the feelings that come with it. But Valentine's Day, the day which celebrates love worldwide, sure has a history and origin of its own. February is historically chosen to be the month of love and romance and the month to celebrate Valentine's Day. Can you possibly overlook the deluge of love-drenched feelings, the slushy outbreak of 'being in love' and the pervasion of the color red all around when the calendar turns to the month of February? No. None of us can! For, the one thing that's inextricably linked to the month of February is Valentine's Day--the most coveted celebration after Christmas and a day kept aside to let love rule everywhere. Come what may, the hype and hoopla surrounding Valentine's Day never goes unnoticed, no matter which part of the world you are placed in! And Valentine's Day incidentally is the 2nd largest card-sending occasion, after Christmas.

Valentine's Day has shadows of both the Christian and Roman traditions. Celebrated famously on February 14 every year, some believe that Valentine's Day has its history and origin in the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia. The latter was an annual feasting and celebration by the Romans to keep fearful wolves at bay from damaging their crops. Lupercalia was celebrated on February 15 with the young men striking the women because it was believed that these blows would make them more fertile. This association of Lupercalia with fertility is probably one reason why Valentine's Day is linked to this ancient Roman festival. Also, on the eve of Lupercalia, which is on February 14, it was quite popular for young women to find their partners for the festival. The romantic origin of Valentine's Day can even be traced to this practice.

No matter what the history and origin of Valentine's Day includes, it sure includes this patron saint named St. Valentine. Now history even has it that there has been more than one legend related to St. Valentine. Summing two legends, we now know that there were two saints (of the same name Valentine) belonging to the early Christian church. One legend holds that when the Roman Emperor Claudius II forbade young men to marry to make better soldiers out of single men, a priest named Valentine defied the orders and secretly married young couples. Consequently he was beheaded on February 14 for his 'crime'. Some even hold that Valentine was killed for trying to help Christians escape the atrocities prevailing in

the Roman prisons. But whatever the facts, ever since, February 14 came to be celebrated as Valentine's Day commemorating this great patron of people in love worldwide. The other story talks of another Valentine who was a children's favorite but was despised by the Romans for his religious defiance. The Romans had him behind the bars but the children still managed to send fond messages to their favorite Valentine. The current custom of exchanging love messages on Valentine's Day might have roots to this age-old tale.

Yet another legend holds that when Valentine was in prison, he fell in love with the prison guard's daughter. And history states that before his death, he wrote a letter to his beloved signing off as 'From your Valentine'. It's not known to which extent these Valentine's Day legends related to its origin are true, but this expression 'From your Valentine' sure caught hold like wildfire. And people still send gifts and cards on Valentine's Day with this tag hanging from them - 'From your Valentine'! So you keep the tradition going too.

Probably, the Americans began exchanging handmade Valentine's Day cards in the early years of the eighteenth century. And around 1840, a person called Esther A. Howland began selling the first big production of Valentine's Day greetings in America. Now, apart from all the facts and figures of Valentine's Day history and origin, one thing that's for sure is the choice of February as the month for celebrating love. In ancient Rome, February was the official kick-off month for the season of spring and was a time to feel happy all over again. Then in the Middle Ages, it was quite a popular belief in France and England that February was the birds' mating season. All these and many more taken together contributed to the consolidation of mid-February as the time for Valentines.

Finally, around 498 AD, Pope Gelasius I declared February 14 as St. Valentine's Day!

Sean Carter writes on holidays, Valentine's Day and world events. He also writes on family, relationships, celebrations, religion, love and friendship. He is a writer with special interest in ecard industry and writes for 123greetings.com. He is an active blogger at Valentines Day Blog.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Sean_Carter/42553