Test Valley Forum - Issue 177 - May 2023

‘An attractive four bedroom house enjoying a quiet village position’ Accommodation comprising; Four bedrooms, Ensuite, Family bathroom, Drawing room, Family Room, Cloakroom, Boot Area, Utility room, Study/Bed 5, Driveway, Garden Guide Price £875,000

COMING SOON…

A stunning period townhouse elegantly decorated and with beautifully landscaped gardens just a stones throw from Stockbridge High Street.

Accommodation comprising; Five bedrooms, Two bathrooms, Kitchen/Breakfast room, Dining room, Drawing room, Study, Garden room, Driveway, Garage and Garden.

Guide Price £825,000

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

Feature Writer Mica Bale

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

Mongrel against Mortal

Is there ever a good time to bathe the dog? Claws clenched, soap suds scattered, threats thundered and suddenly your beloved pride and joy turns from the weight of a miniature dachshund to the lumbering load of a Great Dane. And yet the arrival of guests is always a harbinger of bad tidings - for furry-coated, four-footed friends, that is, with an inbuilt dislike of any body of water that doesn’t resemble a muddy puddle.

It begins with a whisper, a mere baby’s breath upon the wind. The unsuspecting canine is stretched out blissfully unaware of the endless hoovering, cleaning, dusting and its own contribution to the general aroma that is tolerable for family though evidently insufferable for guests, distinguished or otherwise.

But an atmosphere is brewing. Maybe it's the anticipation before the battle, or perhaps it's the slightly too cheerful tone with which the dog’s name is called. The family is poised, one at every exit point, bent double, hands on knees and faces fixed with an expression that would wilt even the most hardened Sunday side rugby player. The canine is cornered.

The hound knows when it is being hunted. Escape is impossible but suddenly the gap under the sofa provides the perfect sanctuary. The battle lines have been drawn; mongrel against mortal.

There is a certain kind of indignity that all dog owners are exposed to with downright alarming regularity. Bath time is no exception. Scuba diving under one’s sofa to retrieve the family pet is not what anyone signed up for and such skills were certainly never mentioned at the adoption agency. Nutritional facts and figures must be able to be quoted backwards and high visibility dog collars must be purchased and yet the willingness to stand out in the rain to allow for a canine comfort break, to fill every jacket and coat pocket with scented small bags and to perfect one’s ability to throw sticks perfectly was never discussed.

Green eyes glint dangerously under the sofa and a low growl omits from the void. Pound coins are pocketed favourably and crumbs are pushed aside. Slowly one hand is extended and with it a bribe - a handful of salty dog chews, as pungent as the aroma due to be addressed. The canine is not stupid and yet a moment’s distraction is all the advantage an experienced dog owner needs. A vice-like grip is swiftly tightened around the dog’s collar. Slowly the extradition process begins.

Cheers like those for a sporting hero shooting the winning goal erupt in the household. The battle has been won but the war is far from over. Mutinous curses and threats are projected from the captured pup. The indignity has

switched from hunter to hunted. Perhaps there is such a thing as retribution.

Each step towards the bathtub becomes increasingly difficult as the hound lowers its centre of gravity and weighs heavier, fidgeting restlessly in your arms. If the dog had any doubt as to its impending fate then the instruments of torture laid out in the bathroom were enough to convince her that any chance of clemency was well and truly without real foundation. Instruments of torture in the form of the fluffiest towel the family owned, the most expensive dog shampoo the pet shop could sell and more than a handful of dog treats.

But to the family dog, stripped of all hope and ready to descend into despair, there was but one solution. Howl! Perhaps it was a final farewell to all the dogs in the neighbourhood, perhaps it was a tribute to Sydney Carton, ‘A far far wetter thing I…’

The moment had arrived. One paw, two paws, three paws and a tail and before too long, you have a wet dog and a death warrant on your hands, all in the name of sweetening the aroma for the guests. By this time, both dog and assigned dog washer are unified in the mutual dislike of said guests and the disruption they have caused, albeit unwittingly. Do curtains really need washing for afternoon tea guests? Does the dog really need a claw inspection complete with a shampoo and set?

Hope can be a cruel mistress. There is a moment of misplaced triumph when the drone of the shower is silenced and the flow of water abruptly stops. The hound looks heartened, forgetful of the next stage of this journey into hell. The drying process. To towel dry and risk unbelievable frizz or to painstakingly use the hair dryer on a constant cool shot? The options are limited but so is the time before the guests arrive. A quick towel dry and a gentle blast with the dryer it is then.

Finally, not before time, the dog is released from its watery prison and allowed to have a mad half hour, skidding into every family member to give an excited greeting and to showcase the flowy locks of newly washed fur. Life is good for the four-footed member of the family. For the rest of the household, the troubles are far from over. Time to count the casualties.

A quick glance out the window reveals the figures of the early guests arriving up the path. Could peace not last for even a moment? Panicked shouts from the kitchen answer otherwise ‘Quick! Get the paper towels! That damned dog!’ Maybe the mongrel won the war after all.

Written by Mica Bale

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.

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

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

Anna and Hugh Cutler, May 22

W:

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.

Adopt a proactive and pragmatic approach

The alarming headlines and figures over house price growth do not necessarily accurately reflect the levels of activity that we and other agents are seeing in our area.

There are good enquiries and increasing buyer confidence, and despite the Bank of England raising the rates some of the large lenders have lowered them.

If buyers and sellers can tune out the negative noise and keep in mind that purchasing a house is a long-term investment with the

inevitable short-term fluctuations, then they will likely benefit from an expected upward trend over the next five to ten years. Whilst a proactive, pragmatic and patient approach is required in the current market, an experienced estate agent will navigate it to ensure the very best outcome for you!

For expert advice on property sales, lettings or management call the team here at The Country House Company. Kate Porter or Claudia Hunt on 01264 312832.

Romsey Antiques Collectible & Decorative Arts Fair

This well established event which is now in its 9th year is well worth a visit with a huge array of items from dealers and enthusiasts offering something of interest for all members of the family whether Antiques, (including furniture,gardenalia, kitchenalia, collectables vintage retro and even Vinyl records.

The event is spread over 5 areas in the centre of Romsey both inside and out ( all areas are flat and accessible & FREE entry) on a circular route taking in many of the interesting sites that Romsey has to offer, including King John's House Romsey Abbey and glimpses of the River Test. This event is supported by both Romsey Town Council & Test Valley Council, with over 65 stalls to browse and be tempted by, plus the cafes restaurants and some of the shops will be open why not stay for brunch, lunch or afternoon tea. For more info on ACVR events check out website facebook & instagram.

Tel: 07514 680872 for more information

www.acvrevents.co.uk

Head of Sales - Kate Porter katep@countryhousecompany.co.uk

Head of Lettings - Claudia Hunt claudia@countryhousecompany.co.uk

Head of ManagementMarishelle Butler marishelle@countryhousecompany.co.uk

Contact us on 01264 312832 www.countryhousecompany.co.uk

Kate Porter Sales

Marishelle Butler Management

Claudia Hunt Lettings

May/June Events

Stockbridge Antiques Fair

Saturday 6th May & 3rd June

From 9am to 4.30pm

Stockbridge Town Hall, 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. (for the May Fair, we will be showing the Coronation on a TV in the hall.)

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

Faure RequiemMozart Solemn Vespers

are no auditions and for more information you can check out our past performances on our website – andoverchoralsociety. org.uk. Our rehearsals take place every Wednesday evening 7.309.30pm at Rookwood School Hall, Weyhill Road, Andover SP10 3AL.

Rotary Club of Andover Antique and Collectables Valuation Day

Thursday 18th May

From 10am

Upper Guildhall, Andover, SP10 1NT

Meet TV’s Thomas Forrester, SAS Director & TV Expert and his team to value your treasured Collectables old and used £5 per item or £10 for 3 items All proceeds to Local Charities Christopher.lynn36@gmail.com

01264 396511

Stockbridge Cinema Aftersun (12)

Friday 19th May

From 7.30pm

Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall, SO20 6HE

purchased online - price per ticket £6.00 (including £0.50 booking fee) via www.stockbridgecinema. org.uk or by telephone from TicketSource 0333 666 3366 (additional £1.80 charge per booking).

Broughton Horticultural Society Plant Stall

Saturday 20th May

From 2.00pm Broughton Village Memorial Hall, SO20 8AX

Summer bedding, vegetable plants, geraniums, runner bean canes and much more. Please bring cash.

Stockbridge Cinema Living (12)

Wednesday 24th May

From 5.00pm to 7.30pm

Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall, SO20 6HE

Hood, some pre-dating Chaucer, Illyria has created a fast-moving,

Saturday 13th May From 7.30pm

This May, Andover Choral Society is looking forward to performing two much-loved choral works by W A Mozart (Solemn Vespers)and Gabriel Faure (Requiem), on Saturday 13 May 2023 (7.30pm) at St Mary’s Church, Andover. Tickets cost £15, available from members of the choir, or from Frances Lynn on email – lynncf35@gmail.com or telephone 01264 396511. There

At a fading vacation resort, 11-year-old Sophie treasures rare time together with her loving and idealistic father, Calum (Paul Mescal). As a world of adolescence creeps into view, beyond her eye Calum struggles under the weight of life outside of fatherhood. Twenty years later, Sophie's tender recollections of their last holiday become a powerful and heartrending portrait of their relationship, as she tries to reconcile the father she knew with the man she didn't, in Charlotte Wells' superb and searingly emotional debut film. Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall SO20 6HE. Tickets can be

Williams (Bill Nighy), a veteran civil servant in post war London, is an important cog within the city’s bureaucracy as it struggles to rebuild. Buried under paperwork at the office and lonely at home, his life has long felt empty and meaningless. Then a shattering medical diagnosis forces him to take stock – and to try and grasp fulfilment before it goes beyond reach. Tickets can be purchased online - price per ticket £6.00 (including £0.50 booking fee) via www.stockbridgecinema.org.uk or by telephone from TicketSource 0333 666 3366 (additional £1.80 charge per booking).

Robin Hood in the grounds of Salisbury Cathedral School

Salisbury Cathedral School (please use postcode SP1 2EJ for parking), Salisbury, SP1 2EQ

From the earliest ballads of Robin

Friday 26th May

From 6.30pm Salisbury, SP1 2EQ

fun-packed family show. You'll definitely laugh, you'll probably cry - and if you're not cheering at the archery competition involving the entire audience then you must be dead. We also guarantee you will learn new uses for the phrase “Don’t Do This At Home.”

Chilbolton Church Fete and BBQ

Saturday 17th June

From 12.30 to 3.30pm

Watch House, Coley Lane, SO20 6AZ

Fun Dog Show - Barbeque of locally sourced meats, Beer and Pimms Tent, Tea and Cakes, Ice Creams, Grand Draw, Bottle Tombola, Stalls and Games for all the Family.

Wherwell Open Gardens Event

Sunday 25th June

From 1.00pm to 5.00pm

Various addresses throughout Wherwell

Our Open Gardens range from traditional cottage gardens through to larger modern planting schemes, with some bordering the River Test. Tea, coffee and delicious cakes will be available in the village hall. All proceeds go toward the care and maintenance of our Village Hall.

Cost : Tickets £7 including FREE tea/ coffee. Accompanied under 16’s free. Credit and Debit cards accepted.

12 Million people suffer with hearing loss across the UK, yet many people continue to ignore the symptoms

Look up?

Do you constantly look at the ground when you’re walking (or running)? Now that we are all heading out to enjoy the warmer, longer days, it is worth checking in with how you are moving. If you walk with your head down, the weight of your body is mostly forwards of your pelvis. This means that you have to shoot your foot out in front of you to stop yourself falling forwards.

The strike of the foot out in front can have a breaking effect on your stride and increase the impact travelling back up into the body. This heavier foot strike and forward position creates an increased load into your knees and the soft organs of your pelvis (bowel, bladder and uterus). Ideally the load should be evenly distributed through the strong spine, sacrum and then out through the sacroiliac joints and hips.

When the weight shifts forwards symptoms such as painful knees, neck stiffness, back pain, urine leaking and prolapse may occur. Walkers can experience this due to impact, asymmetrical movement patterns and sub-optimal alignment. Increasing speed and distance, rough terrain or hills can worsen it.

Also for women, in the pre-menstrual time of your cycle, leaking symptoms, pain and heaviness can worsen.

Here are my top 7 strategies:

• Increase your step rate (cadence) to reduce overstriding and the associated braking effect

• Land the foot under the hip, rather than out in front of you to reduce the shock and impact travelling up the leg into the pelvis

• Eyes up and head back. Avoid constantly looking at the ground or jutting the head forwards as this creates more load into the front of the body and into the pelvic organs

• Avoid the treadmill, as this is a very hip flexor dominant form of running. You are running to stop yourself from falling forward, rather than running by propelling yourself forward. The glutes switch off and you have to lean forward to counter-balance the direction of the treadmill, increasing the tension across the pelvic floor

• Keep your core and floor springy! Avoid tensing your abs or trying to lift your PF as you walk or run to improve shock absorption

• Learn how to coordinate your diaphragm and your pelvic floor as you breathe to reduce internal pressure

• Most importantly listen to your body. Your symptoms are a signal that can actually help prompt and guide you to improve your alignment

Amazingly the brain can hold up to 15 to 20 steps worth of information about the ground ahead of us. So, look down, check your path, then look up!

Visit the website or YouTube channel for the ‘Top 3 Exercises for Walkers and Runners’ to build strong hips and knees.

Need more help or guidance? Get in touch, we love to chat! Or sign up for the next Womo women’s health course in September at www. the-sop.com/womo to learn all about alignment and strengthening your hips, core and pelvic floor.

Emma Wightman - www.the-sop.com

Osteopathy

Thai Tom Yum Goong

SERVES 2 INGREDIENTS

• 12 oz. large prawns, head-on and shell-on (shelled prawns can be used if you prefer)

• 2 1/2 cups shrimp stock (preferred) or canned chicken stock

• 1 stalk lemongrass cut into 3-inch strips, pounded with a cleaver

• 3 slices galangal (available whole or as a paste in supermarkets)

• 6 kaffir fresh lime leaves (alternatively use dried available in most supermarkets)

• 6 bird's eyes chilies pounded

• 6 fresh oyster mushrooms cut into pieces

• 2 tablespoons nam prik pao Thai roasted chili paste (readily available online)

• 3 teaspoons fish sauce (available in most supermarkets)

• 3 1/2 tablespoons lime juice

• Coriander leaves for garnishing

METHOD

Peel the shell and head off the prawns, keep the tails on. Save the shell and prawn head. De-vein the prawns and set aside. For those who prefer their prawns prepared, uncooked shelled prawns are readily available in most supermarkets.

In a pot, bring 3 cups of water to boil. Add the prawn head and shell to make prawn stock. Boil until the water turns slightly orange in color. Press the prawns heads with a spatula to extract the juice from the heads. Simmer and let the stock reduce to 2 1/2 cups. Drain the prawn stock and discard the prawn heads and shells.

Turn the heat to high and add the lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, bird's eye chilies, mushroom, nam prik pao to the prawn stock. Bring it to boil.

Add in the prawns and fish sauce. Lastly, add the lime juice (if you add lime juice too early, the soup might turn bitter). Boil until the prawns are cooked, dish out, and garnish with cilantro leaves.

Serve immediately.

Featherstone’s English Flower Co.

Bring the beauty of nature into your home with Featherstone's stunning seasonal flowers, harvested right in the heart of the Test Valley. Our farm's commitment to sustainability and biodiversity means that our flowers are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also grown with the utmost care for the environment. From delicate spring blooms to colourful summer bouquets and rich autumn arrangements, we offer a variety of fresh and unique options to suit any occasion.

Use code May10% to gain 10% off a Bouquet or Bucket of Blooms to treat yourself or a loved one this May. Easy online ordering and delivery available.

Bouquets • Events • Weddings • Funerals • Pick Your Own • Workshops • Flower Club • Subscriptions • Buckets of Blooms

www.featherstoneflowers.co.uk @featherstoneflowers 01264 302980

St Swithun’s School Scoops Pioneering Mental Health Award

St Swithun’s is a school that places a large focus on its mental health and wellbeing provisions, and this was recently honoured when the school celebrated achieving the School Mental Health Award.

This award delivered by the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools, was the highest level, gold standard, and was in recognition for the school’s outstanding mental health and wellbeing provision.

The school provides a wide range of initiatives to enhance the wellbeing of pupils and staff, with a key element of the support for pupils being the bespoke and unique Positive Education programme which focuses on feeling good, doing good and functioning well. Led by clinical psychologist, Dr. O’Connor, alongside Mr Graham Yates (pastoral deputy head) it is an evidence-based approach to wellbeing, character development and enhancing academic achievement that not only seeks to alleviate and prevent mental health challenges but builds the resilience and

mental toughness the pupils need to be the best they can be. All pupils have access to a bespoke student wellbeing website created and updated by the school and a wellbeing hub, an online portal with a range of resources and advice available to support pupils, parents, and staff.

The Positive Education programme also incorporates a five-week course for parents which helps strengthen the link between school and home and supports parents in helping their children to thrive. Other elements of wellbeing are routinely shared through parent talks, the parent portal, and The Wellbeing Hub.

A key element of achieving the Gold Award is the degree to which good practice is shared in the wider community to support others. Dr O’Connor and Mr Yates have presented the wellbeing programme at national teacher conferences, to members of the NHS and to over 20 Prep school headteachers last year, as well as publishing articles in the national arena.

St Swithun’s deputy head pastoral, Graham Yates said: “Offering outstanding pastoral care to our pupils is at the heart of what we do at St Swithun’s. We aim to create an

environment in which all girls can flourish, whatever their unique tapestry of strengths and interests.”

“Students and staff know that there is a co-ordinated and effective support system in place alongside a commitment to pupil safety with a strong safeguarding culture.”

St Swithuns’s head, Jane Gandee added: “It is a huge credit to everyone involved in the school that we have received this award. The wellbeing of our pupils is our primary concern, and we believe that girls who are happy, healthy, and resilient are much more likely to achieve their goals and aspirations.”

The award was established in 2017 by the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools – part of Leeds Beckett University – and social enterprise Minds Ahead.

St Swithun’s School Winchester Hampshire SO21 1HA

01962 835700 www.stswithuns.com

Hampshire residents encouraged to nominate a charity to receive share of £1million

Residents in Hampshire can nominate a good cause to receive £1,000 as part of Benefact Group’s Movement for Good Awards. Now in its fifth year, the Movement for Good Awards will once again see more than £1million gifted to charities up and down the UK and Ireland.

Since the awards began, people in Hampshire have submitted over 55,100 nominations and 70 Hampshire based charities have benefited from valuable donations. While the pandemic and the current economic climate has had an adverse effect on cash donations, the amount of people choosing to volunteer their time for a good cause is rising1. From today, Hampshire residents can give a minute to nominate a charity online at www.movementforgood.com.

The Movement for Goods Awards has gifted over £4million to charities in the UK and Ireland since the initiative started. Winners will be drawn at random and the more times a charity is nominated the more chance it has of being selected. 150 winning charities will be announced from 1 June,

Free workshop for parents facing divorce and separation

Free workshop for parents facing divorce and separation

Trethowans are hosting a free workshop on 14 June 2023 at Hotel du Vin, Winchester, for parents facing divorce or separation. The workshop will consist of two sessions from 9.15am to 2.15pm. Session one will be taken by Child Psychotherapist Ashley Palmer, who will provide you with practical tools for developing an effective co-parenting relationship. Session two will include talks from Petra Brunzell (Divorce Coach), Nikki Emerton (Lifestyle Coach) and a House of Colour specialist who will concentrate on your personal wellbeing and will give you the tools you need to make positive steps forward into you and your family’s new life.

with a further 150 revealed in September. Further gifts will be awarded throughout the year.

Mark Hews, Group Chief Executive at Benefact Group, says: “We are immensely proud to be supporting many hundreds of charities through our Movement for Good Awards for the fifth year running. We know that £1,000 can make a huge difference so we’re asking that people give a minute of their time to nominate a cause they care about to receive an award. Owned by a charity ourselves, charitable giving is at the heart of what we do and all of our available profits go to good causes. With financial strain continuing to impact many households the Movement for Good Awards represents a great way for people to continue to support causes close to their hearts, without worrying about an additional cost. Any charity can win no matter how large or small and even with just one nomination. So find a minute, jump online and nominate – because that small amount of time is invaluable for charities.”

Practical. Accurate. Friendly.

Benefact Group has donated almost £200million to charitable causes since 2014 and has just been recognised as the third biggest corporate giver in the UK2. The organisation aims to reach £250million in donations by 2025.

Movement for Good is funded by EIO plc, part of the Benefact Group. Visit www.movementforgood.com to nominate a charity now

TVBC secures funding to further commitment to making council-owned buildings carbon neutral

The New Beginnings workshop will:

• Give you workable strategies to enable your child to express their emotions and most importantly, show you how to respond

• Enable you to promote the emotional and psychological wellbeing of your children

• Provide tools for developing an effective co-parenting relationship

• Tap into your innate self-confidence and strength

• Improve self-esteem and self-belief

• Give you coping strategies to take away

• Help you choose the right legal process for you and your family.

Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) has successfully secured funding from the government's Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) for Phase 3b of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS). This grant is delivered by Salix Finance on behalf of DESNZ. The authority has been awarded up £221,871, which will help to further its commitment to ensuring council owned and occupied buildings will be carbon neutral. The funding is available for heat decarbonisation projects within public sector, non-domestic buildings. Decarbonisation is the term used for the process of removing or reducing the carbon dioxide (CO2) output from a process – so in this case it is looking to remove carbon from how we heat buildings. The secured funds will be used to install energy efficiency measures, by changing to LED lighting and improving insulation measures, and upgrade the heating system to one powered by cleaner energy at the council’s Bourne House depot in Romsey.

Paul Wykes, Head of Environmental Services at Test Valley Borough Council, said:

“At a time when so many are thinking about the environment, the economy, and the future of our planet, securing this fund from the ESNZ and Salix is a great step towards our carbon neutral goal and creating a clean, greener, healthier, and more sustainable borough for current and future generations.

023 8032 1000 trethowans com

“I’m excited to see the improvements made at Bourne House and the difference it will make to our work.”

For more information on this free workshop or to book your free place, please call 01962 673 866 or email familyevents@ trethowans.com.

Works funded by the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme aim to be completed by March 2024. The council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan 2020 sets out our vision for a more sustainable council and what we will be doing to address the climate emergency.

Life doesn’t stand still. Some events you can predict, plot and carefully plan for. Others come out of the blue and send you reeling. Whatever you’re facing, we’re here to help.

Welcome to the Home of BBQ

If you enjoy BBQ then we’re your kind of place! With over 30 years’ experience we know a thing or two about it and would love to share our passion with you. In store we stock all the major brands and then some, so whether you’re looking to sear, smoke, roast, braise, skewer, rotisserie, bake or just plain grill then we have you covered. Come and join us on a Saturday and experience a free demo day or sign up to one of our assorted BBQ Masterclasses. We look forward to seeing y’all soon. Did I mention we stock Yeti? It’s worth dropping in just to view their range!

T: 02380 788155 E: sales@socal.co.uk W: socalbbqshop.co.uk

sizzlefest 16 sept 2023 tickets visit sizzlefest.co.uk

@socalbbqshop

Elite

Rediscovering Chalk Stream Treasures

Formed by a happy accident of weather and geology, our chalk streams show nature at its most magnificent. But look into the water near an old house, footpath, or footbridge and you may also see human additions: fragments of blueand-white Victorian pottery, the edge of a stoneware beer bottle, or a shard of aqua glass from the 19th century.

Jane Eastman, who lives near the Upper Test, is dedicated to rediscovering these lost treasures. For several years now, she has been ‘streamlarking’ – wading in chalk streams and plucking pieces of history from their gravelly beds. The result is an incredible range of finds, each made more fascinating when her research reveals their origins.

There are coffin-shaped poison bottles, sometimes with contents remaining. There are the bowls of broken clay pipes – the cigarette butts of their day. There are imperfectly made ink bottles – testaments

to a time of rapidly increasing literacy. Then there are precious metals: an 18-carat gold wristwatch and a folding fruit knife in sterling silver.

After some careful cleaning, Jane posts her finds on a dedicated Instagram account called @myordinarytreasure, along with their stories. This act of sharing has given thousands of people a window into Hampshire’s history, and highlighted how our chalk streams have shaped – and been shaped by – human lives over the centuries. But for Jane, the search itself has equal value. “It’s a privilege to enjoy the local landscape from this unique perspective; to be immersed in a river that’s thriving and teeming with life,” she says. “Without a doubt, it is this experience of being in the beautiful chalk stream environment which I take home as the ultimate ‘treasure’.”

If you’d like to have a go at streamlarking, remember to get permission from the landowner when on private land. Stick to

shallow water and don’t go out alone; chalk streams can be deeper and faster than they look. Always use the ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ process for your clothes and equipment, to avoid spreading diseases and invasive species.

You can read more about Jane’s work, and her fantastic finds, at www.hiwwt.org.uk/ winterbournes/tales. If you’re a landowner with a stretch of chalk stream, and are interested in Jane streamlarking there, please contact us at winterbournes@hiwwt.org.uk. Our scheme is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Free Online Talk – ‘Water-Wise Gardening: Get Smart With Soil’ 25th May, 7-8.30pm

Hear how to achieve healthy soil, and how doing so can help your garden to cope with dry weather. Learn top tips on avoiding the need for intense watering. Book at: www.hiwwt.org.uk/events

SUPER-FAST 15 MINUTES DRYING

3 Great Deals! Winner

of the most trusted companies local, nearcarpets for a normal cost Tel

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.

Interior design solutions you can rely on…

Audrey Jordan Interiors Limited is a compact, specialized business focusing primarily on residential projects and encompasses all aspects of home décor and design based in Stockbridge, Hampshire.

Deal 1: Have any three of your carpets cleaned for just £97 total!

Deal 2: Have your 3 piece suite freshened up for just £97!

If your space is in need of some renovation, restyling or simply refreshing, I would love to help you. I can source or commission custom makes for all your interior needs guiding you through, what can sometimes be a daunting task.

The Carpet Care People

Deal 3:

Have any 3 carpets and your 3 piece suite freshened up for just £177!

Our objective is to assist the Client in achieving a unique, “bespoke” look that reflects the Client’s taste, personality and style whilst at the same time incorporating new and exciting ideas and suggestions available to the industry.

Upholstery we specialise in cleaning and refreshing 3 piece suites (at our current offer price of £97). Fabric Master, our special upholstery and cleaning system is safe, gentle, and very effective. Fibres are restored to their original beauty and softnessyou’ll see!

We pride ourselves on our ability to include and adapt existing furniture pieces currently utilized by the Client and incorporate them into the overall design thereby creating a fresh and new look for the project but remaining cost conscious.

01962 690 005

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a selection of frequently asked questions especially for you sceptics (you know who you are).

In addition, we also offer the service of reviewing plans, assisting with floor layout and design as well as project management where required.

1. When you say ‘carpet’ what do you mean? We mean average size areas, say 10x12ft ish. But we don’t quibble if the areas are a little larger - it’s all done on fairness really. 2. Do you move furniture? Our pricing policy reflects the time it takes to clean working around furniture, rather than moving it. That said, we are for example, happy to move your three piece suite backwards and forwards cleaning under it and replacing it back into position. What we don’t price into the job at these discount prices is moving large pieces of furniture like bookcases, sideboards or wardrobes. Similarly we are not insured to move electrical items, in particular flat-screen tvs. Again we apply common sense and fairness to the situation and inevitable we do end up moving some furniture around, even at these discount prices. 3.

Are there any ‘hidden’ extra costs? The prices quoted above are fully-inclusive and are the actual prices you will pay.

For more information on how we work and examples of completed projects please visit our website: www.audreyjordaninteriors.com and follow us on Instragram @audreyjordaninteriors

AUDREY JORDAN INTERIORS, STOCKBRIDGE,HAMPSHIRE 07874 050492

audrey@audreyjordaninteriors.co.uk

Maximise the potential in your property

BELARAM PROJECTS

Design for Development

Property Consultancy

• Design

• Project Management

With over 20 years of practical property experience in town and country, Belaram brings a wealth of knowledge and design detail to your project, large or small Making the transition from conceptual design to construction smoother and more efficient, saving you time and money

To book a free, no obligation consultation please call Marcella Bingley 07818 038 226 or marcella@belaram.co.uk

The Renovation Journey - The Role of an Interior Designer

Renovating a home from scratch can be a daunting task. It involves planning, designing, and decisionmaking. However, the end result is a space that is tailored to the client’s specific style and needs.

Establishing the brief and scope of the build is where it all begins. Understanding how the space will be used, and thinking about the flow of the property are important and often overwhelming considerations. Building with the environment and economy in mind may pay dividends further down the line. What could you put in place now to save money later?

A building project can involve several parties such as architects and contractors, and often involves making decisions under a time pressure or imminent deadline. Before the building process begins, there will be surveys, possible planning permission to obtain, and lead times to factor in for things such as kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, windows, and the list goes on.

As an interior design team, we ease the stress of decision making by creating an overall design scheme for the project in line with our client’s style and taste. We can help edit the overwhelming amount of choice, and guide them through the all-important attention to detail that will bring the whole project together. We source everything from sanitary ware to paint colours, helping to avoid costly mistakes. We share our suppliers, our little black book of trades, liaising with contractors on timelines for installations and helping to tie up loose ends - keeping the project in line with the schedule. Understanding each party's role and what they are there to deliver is important, and clear communication between all involved is key to a smooth ride.

As a studio, our aim is to make sure the spaces we design reflect the character of the individuals who will live in it. We support the end to end process, working as a team with our fellow builders and architects, helping to bring all the elements of the project together to deliver on budget and on time.

If you have a project in mind please get in touch or head to our website @charlottestuartinteriors.com

For further inspiration and styling tips head to our website or find us on Instagram @charlotte_stuart_interiors

Email: info@charlottestuartinteriors.co.uk

Contact Number: 07973 886 152

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Coronation Weekend 6-8th May 2023

Buckingham Palace is pleased to announce further details on the ceremonial, celebratory and community events that will take place over the Coronation Weekend between Saturday 6th and Monday 8th May 2023.

The Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort will take place at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 6th May, 2023. The Service will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury. As previously announced, the Service will reflect the Monarch’s role today and look towards the future, while being rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry.

Across the Coronation Weekend, there will be further opportunities for people to come together in celebration of the historic occasion. On Sunday, 7th May 2023, a special Coronation Concert will be staged and broadcast live at Windsor Castle by the BBC and BBC Studios, with several thousand pairs of tickets to be made available via public ballot.

The Coronation Big Lunch, at which neighbours and communities are invited to share food and fun together, will take place across the country on the same date. On Monday, 8th May 2023, members of the public will be invited to take part in The Big Help Out, which will encourage people to try volunteering for themselves and join the work being undertaken to support their local areas.

Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort hope the Coronation Weekend will provide an opportunity to spend time and celebrate with friends, families and communities across the United Kingdom, the Realms and the Commonwealth. Their Majesties are looking forward to marking the occasion with the public throughout 2023.

Saturday 6th May 2023

The Coronation Service at Westminster Abbey

The Coronation Service will take place on the morning of Saturday, 6th May 2023 at Westminster Abbey. The Coronation is a solemn religious service, as well as an occasion for celebration and pageantry.

Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort will arrive at Westminster Abbey in procession from Buckingham Palace, known as ‘The King’s Procession’.

After the Service, Their Majesties will return to Buckingham Palace in a larger ceremonial procession, known as ‘The Coronation Procession’. Their Majesties will be joined in this procession by other Members of the Royal Family. At Buckingham Palace, The King and The Queen Consort, accompanied by Members of the Royal Family, will appear on the balcony to conclude the day’s ceremonial events.

Sunday 7th May 2023

The Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle

On Sunday, 7th May 2023, a special Coronation Concert will take place at Windsor Castle. Produced, staged and broadcast live by the BBC and BBC Studios, the Coronation Concert will bring global music icons and contemporary stars together in celebration of the historic occasion. Attended by a public audience including volunteers from The King and The Queen Consort’s many charity affiliations, the concert will see a world-class orchestra play interpretations of musical favourites fronted by some of the world’s biggest entertainers, alongside performers from the world of dance. The performances will be supported by staging and effects located on the Castle’s

East Lawn and will also feature a selection of spoken word sequences delivered by stars of stage and screen.

Through a national ballot held by the BBC, several thousand members of the public will be selected to receive a pair of free tickets for the Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle.

Alongside the stars of the concert, the show will also see an exclusive appearance from The Coronation Choir. This diverse group will be created from the nation’s keenest community choirs and amateur singers from across the United Kingdom, such as Refugee choirs, NHS choirs, LGBTQ+ singing groups and deaf signing choirs. A new documentary exploring the formation of The Coronation Choir will tell the stories of the people representing the many faces and voices of the country. The Coronation Choir will appear alongside The Virtual Choir, made up of singers from across the Commonwealth, for a special performance on the night.

The centrepiece of the Coronation Concert, ‘Lighting up the Nation’, will see the country join together in celebration as iconic locations across the United Kingdom are lit up using projections, lasers, drone displays and illuminations.

The Coronation Concert will be produced by BBC Studios, broadcast live on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds.

The Coronation Big Lunch

Neighbours and communities across the United Kingdom are invited to share food and fun together at Coronation Big Lunches on Sunday 7th May 2023, in a nationwide act of celebration and friendship. From a cup of tea with a neighbour to a street party, a Coronation Big Lunch brings the celebrations to your neighbourhood and is a great way to get to know your community a little better.

The Coronation Big Lunch will be overseen and organised by the Big Lunch team at the Eden Project. The Big Lunch is an idea from the Eden Project, made possible by The National Lottery, that brings millions of people together annually to boost community spirit, reduce loneliness and support charities and good causes. Her Majesty The Queen Consort has been Patron of the Big Lunch since 2013.

Thousands of events are expected to take place in every corner of the United Kingdom this May as people take to their streets, gardens, parks and community spaces to join the Coronation celebrations and mark this historic occasion.

Free downloadable resources will also be made available online by the Big Lunch team at CoronationBigLunch.com, to help people and communities start their Coronation Big Lunch planning.

Monday 8th May 2023

The Big Help Out

Will be held on Monday, 8th May 2023 and is being organised by The Together Coalition and a wide range of partners such as The Scouts, the Royal Voluntary Service and faith groups from across the United Kingdom. The Big Help Out will highlight the positive impact volunteering has on communities across the nation.

In tribute to His Majesty The King's public service, The Big Help Out will encourage people to try volunteering for themselves and join the work being undertaken to support their local areas. The aim of The Big Help Out is to use volunteering to bring communities together and create a lasting volunteering legacy from the Coronation Weekend.

PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION

Enter your favourite photos from spring, summer, autumn or winter in and around our branch towns to be in with the chance of winning a £50 voucher of your choice.

PLUS winning photos will also be featured in our 2024 members calendar, available in branches from November.

Let your imagination run wild and enter your best shot before 5pm on 3rd October 2023!

To enter:

If you are 16 or under, scan the QR code to visit the competition page for full details. Or visit our website www.newbury.co.uk and search for ‘Junior Photography Competition.’ *Terms and conditions apply.