Test Valley Forum - Issue 180 - August 2023

An excellent new energy efficient home with sustainability and modern design at its heart. Enjoying wonderful views and a prime Test Valley village location.

Offering generous accommodation comprising; Kitchen/Dining/Family Room, Sitting Room, Study, Utility Room, Shower Room, Cloakroom, Four Bedrooms, Main Bedroom with Ensuite and & Dressing Room, Ensuite to Bedroom Two and luxurious Family Bathroom.

Gardens of 0.35 acre and a detached double garage. The property benefits from solar panels, Air Source Heat Pump, under floor heating and an electric charging point.

A charming five bedroom townhouse, moments from Stockbridge High Street. Offering flexible accommodation with an abundance of period features.

Accommodation comprises:

Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Dining Room, Drawing Room, Study, Garden Room, Five Bedrooms and Two Bathrooms.

Driveway and Garage. South Facing Gardens with Terraced areas with attractive cottage garden and raised vegetable beds.

Recipe of

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

Hands up who is feeling more than a little exhausted?

Whether it’s hot summer nights chasing away even the merest whisper of a good night’s rest, a heavy work schedule or just the regular activities of the week taking their toll, many people are recognising the need for a summer reset.

For many of us, the longer days and extra sunlight provide a welcome boost to our overall health and wellbeing but in reality, with the busy lives everybody leads, life in the summer can be busier than ever and can provide conflicting challenges.

With the unpredictability of the British summertime, it is easy to fall into the trap of not wasting the sunlight, whether that is to do necessary outdoor chores such as gardening or indeed to seize the opportunity to have some social time. And then there’s the endless debate of needing more sunlight whilst also being careful not to sizzle ourselves like a sausage on the barbecue!

As a twenty-something, our generation seems to have leapt onto the wellness and self care train. In reality, though, seasons can derail our usual go-to routines of self nourishment. It’s perhaps harder to curl up with a book and a hot chocolate in summer when the feeling of your own hair at the back of your neck makes you determined to shave it all off.

Over the course of the remaining warmer months, I have set myself some challenges in the name of heightening my feelings of wellness and giving myself a rather needed energy boost. With this in mind, my first challenge was to purchase a wearable activity tracker. Yes, I officially have joined the cult!

In all honesty, I am not entirely sure if wearing an expensive gadget on my arm will really do much in the grand scheme but as Britain can be a guilt-motivation nation, perhaps my spending out on said gadget would encourage its use in my day to day life. Perhaps…

And so began negotiating the rabbit warren of online purchase review hunting. It has always been an awe-inspiring discussion in our household that men and women of centuries gone past possessed the mental capacity to successfully navigate the high seas to far flung lands and discover new countries and cultures. And yet if you were to put them in front of a computer

and a string of product reviews and I don’t doubt that their mental prowess would plunge into the chaos that their 21st century descendants suffer.

“What do you think of this one?” I said, shifting position in the chair. It had been a long session trawling through endless products.

“This one what?” Said brother mine. Wordlessly I pointed to the screen. He shrugged, “It’s alright.” I had figured this much out myself, owing to the shortlisted items now being presented to the rest of the family.

“What do the reviews say?”

“Mixed,” I responded truthfully. “Some people complained that the company wouldn’t refund them after their dog chewed through the strap, others wanted to know why a waterproof wearable didn’t survive a drop in the loo. This one says it hasn’t got a side button. Do you think I should get one with a side button?”

A half-hearted discussion ensued. A side button was not a really relevant aspect but before you know it, you suddenly find yourself so severely influenced by the fountain of wisdom that pours from the anonymous reviews that you are now on a quest to find a wearable activity tracker complete with side button, long battery life, removable strap, functional app and with the capacity to make you a cup of tea in the morning - all in the colour Cornish Sea Azure blue.

“Well what about this one?” I shook my head, “It’s too big I’m afraid.” Another product was suggested, again, I shook my head, “Too small unfortunately.”

“What are you - Goldilocks?” Brother mine exploded. “You strap it to your arm, look at it at irregular intervals to see if it’s counting the steps you haven’t taken and then forget to charge it! Just get any old one.”

He might have had a point. Not that I would admit that under the unwritten sibling code, subsection three, paragraph five. In the end, a purchase was successfully completed and a few days later a package arrived. The first challenge of my summer wellness project was complete, next came the acid test.

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

unexciting, 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

T: 01264 570097

W: happykitchens.uk

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.

Broughton Village Art Exhibition 2023

This is the third year of the Broughton Village Artists Exhibition. This exhibition continues to demonstrate the extraordinary and varied creative talent found in and around Broughton. There is everything here to please all tastes and interests demonstrating the outstanding variety of skill, talent and imagination that exists in our community. Please take your time to browse and enjoy the wonderful work on show.

With over 60 talented creators all under one roof including workers in Acrylics, Automata,

Basketry, Cards, Ceramics, Charcoal, Drawing, Glass Creators, Jewellery, Leather Work, Mixed Media, Oils, Papier-mâché, Pastels, Pen & Wash, Pencil Drawing, Photography, Pottery, Sculpture, Textiles, Water Colour and Wood Turning & Carving. A great opportunity to get some early Christmas presents.

We are more than delighted to welcome and support our Ukrainian artist friends who are joining our exhibition as guests this year. You can check them out as well as all the other exhibitors on the exhibition website www.broughtonvillage.art

Broughton Art Exhibition has become a must visit location with lots to look at, great coffee and

cake and the Broughton Greyhound is a fabulous pub for lunch – just a 2 minute walk. Just listen to what just five of our previous visitors had to say...

“Best exhibition around – variety – quality – friendly faces – tea and coffee from the shop next door - not to mention the lovely spacious settings.”

“What an amazing Exhibition congratulations to all concerned”

"Best and most diverse exhibits I've seen for a long time"

"Incredible! So much talent and imagination and so many from within walking distance"

“Excellent exhibition – great variety of art forms”

Broughton Village Art Exhibition 2023

Large Art Exhibition with free entry

At Broughton Village Hall

From Saturday 19th to Monday 28th August open from 10am until 5pm

Large free car park | Rapid EV Charging Station | Coffee shop onsite

Over 60 local artists and crafts people

Part of the 2023 Hampshire Open Studios

Visit an amazing array of local talent sharing their work in what is almost certainly the largest local art exhibition in Hampshire. This year we are also supporting & featuring guest artists from Ukraine

Website - Broughtonvillage.art

Facebook - BroughtonVillage.ART Instagram.com/broughtonvillage_art

Location Broughton Village Hall, High Street, Broughton, Hampshire SO20 8AX what3words.com/houseboat.interrupt.joined

Winchester Heritage Open Days 8th-17th September 2023

Hampshire History Trust is delighted to announce that Winchester Heritage Open Days (HODs) is back for the eighth year running and it’s jam-packed with a whole host of exciting FREE events! From fascinating tours and thought-provoking talks to family days out, HODs is all about bringing the community together to discover the rich heritage of Winchester and the beautiful surrounding areas of Hampshire.

Our online Box Office opens on 8th August so do book early to avoid disappointment! Information on all events and booking information can be found on our website www.winchesterheritageopendays.org

The theme of this year’s festival is “Creativity Unwrapped”, unwrapping the colourful history of creativity by celebrating the people, places and key historical moments that capture the gripping past of Hampshire’s cultural heritage. Whether you are keen to gain some historical insights, intrigued by the biographies of past residents, or simply want to connect with the community, there is an event for you to enjoy. Visit the charming house of the illustrious author, Jane Austen, hop on a heritage bus or pull levers at the fully operational Romsey Signal Box, attend the war artist, Nicholas Gibb’s exhibition “Ruins” featuring his captivating poetry, or take a tour around Old Southampton Cemetery and listen to remarkable stories about the sinking of RMS Titanic. Whatever your interests, there is something for all ages.

Behind the scenes, Hampshire History Trust is working hard year-round to ensure that the HODs programme is a success every September. There are some great opportunities to join our dedicated team of volunteers so if you’d like to get involved take a look at our website for current vacancies. You may be interested to know that the Trust also runs the fabulous HistBites podcast. You can find all the episodes online via the podcast’s website: www.histbites.buzzsprout.com

Hampshire History Trust is thrilled to have on-going support from our lead sponsor, Winchester College, and for additional support from Winchester BID, Winchester City Council, Hampshire County Council and our media partner Hampshire Chronicle. We also would like to thank all the heritage sites, businesses and individuals who organise events for the festival and the volunteers who help make HODs happen!

Here are just some of this year’s highlights…

Our online Box Office opens on 8th August.

For more information please visit www.winchesterheritageopendays.org

• Winchester College Guided Tours & Talks

• Uppark House & Garden

• Sandham Memorial Chapel

• Romsey Signal Box

• Big Day Out: Winchester Military Museums

• Hyde900: Medieval tile-making workshop

• St Mary’s Church, Hartley Wintney

• Gilbert White’s House & Gardens, Selborne

• Jane Austen’s House, Chawton

• Bishop’s Waltham Palace and Parish Church

• The Princess and the Oil Magnate’s Daughter, Lyndhurst

• Royal Aircraft Wind Tunnel Building, Farnborough

Our online Box Office opens on 8th August. For more information please visit - www.winchesterheritageopendays.org

Thursday 7th September 2023

7.15pm - 8.45pm at Winchester College

Hampshire History Trust is the voluntary organisation behind the Winchester Heritage Open Days festival which takes place each September.

Registered Charity No: 1191377

UPROAR! A talk by Historian Alice Loxton

Fundraising event for Hampshire History Trust

Join us for an evening with Alice Loxton as she delves into the delights of UPROAR!: Satire, Scandal and Printmakers in Georgian London - a brilliant new history of Georgian Britain through the eyes of the artists who immortalised it. UPROAR! follows the satirists as they lampoon those in power, from George III and Napoleon to the Prince Regent and Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire.

This is a fundraising event and must be booked. Premium tickets £30, Standard tickets £15.

For tickets & more information please visit Eventbrite - www.eventbrite.co.uk or www.winchesterheritageopendays.org

The event is kindly supported by Winchester College

Delve into Hampshire History

Join

Hampshire Open Studios 19th – 28th August 2023

his studio; showing paintings, prints, cards and other items. His colourful semi-abstract work is an expression of a response to the landscape rather than a literal representation.

In Stockbridge Town Hall you can visit painting exhibitions by Renate West, Quartet and the Challenge Group.

New for 2023 is Zoë Wilson at Houghton Lodge Gardens. With 15 years’ experience, Zoë uses simple, traditional techniques to create intricate patterns in British stone. Her work is captivating, hand-carved geometric artwork and includes original carvings, limited edition casts and prints are available to buy.

Hampshire Open Studios is an annual art trail where the visiting public can meet artists in their homes, studios and galleries free of charge

With over 290 venues open this year the county is packed with options to visit! In the ten days leading up to bank holiday Monday 28th August, visitors can get the opportunity to meet the makers direct and learn more about the work.

Our colour catalogue is out from mid July or view all the listings online and new for 2023 is our Hampshire Open Studios app available from the Google Play Store and Apple Store. Download this and you can search by media, date, place, navigate via maps and save all your favourite venues. Visitors can also enter a prize draw to win £100 towards artwork from your favourite Hampshire Open Studios artist.

The Test Valley is packed with venues for this year’s open studios. Starting in the north of the area, in Andover town centre, you can visit Chapel Arts Studios, Andover Arts at the Museum and Unity Art Studio at the Chantry Centre. Nearby make sure you visit artist Keith Pattison who welcomes you to

In Broughton you have plenty of artwork to choose from with mother and daughter artists exhibiting together at North End Studio. In their garden see Ferelith Molteno’s stunning paintings and Vanessa Pease’s beautiful silver jewellery. Nearby at the village hall are the Broughton Artists with over 60 acclaimed artists all under one roof and a short drive away is Roake Farm Studio.

Heading south, the New Road Artists are showing at the Jubilee Hall in Timsbury and there are two exhibitions, for the duration of HOS, at the Sir Harold Hilliers Gardens.

In Romsey town there are 9 venues in close proximity, why not make a day of it and use our mini-trail map available on our website to help you find your way around.

There are a wide variety of venues to see along with every type of art and craft on offer in the region, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass, furniture, jewellery and many more.

Entry is free and to find your nearest venue check the website, brochure or our app and look out for the pink direction arrows that will guide you to the artists’ venues. Artists are very much looking forward to inviting you to their studios and galleries and making every effort for your visit to be enjoyable and creative.

www.hampshireopenstudios.org.uk

Vanessa Pease Jewellery

Zoë Wilson Stonecarving

August & September Hampshire Festivals & Shows

South Downs Show

Saturday 12th – Sunday 13th August

The South Downs Show has been running for decades in various formats and this year it will be a two day event. There will be lots going on including arena acts, entertaining attractions, dog shows, animal petting zoo, children’s rides and fun zone. There will also be country life stalls, alpacas, a beer tent and catering with live music. Get Your Tickets Now! Hometown

Events are thrilled to be bringing The South Downs Show back again for 2023! Thank you to everyone who attended in 2022, despite the sweltering heat we had a fantastic weekend celebrating our beautiful South Downs National Park. Building on our success in 2022, join us in 2023 for awesome arena acts, entertaining attractions, dog shows, animal petting zoo, children’s rides and fun zone, country life stalls, beer tent and catering with live music and much much more. At Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Gravel Hill, Horndean, PO8 0QE. For more information and tickets please visit www.southdownsshow.com

CarFest South

Friday 25 August to Sunday

27th August

Carfest South will be returning to Laverstoke Park Farm, Hampshire in August as One Big Carfest. The 2,500 acres farm, near Overton, is owned by ex-racing driver and 1979 Formula 1 World Champion Jody Scheckter. Created by Chris Evans, to help raise funds for UK Children’s Charities, CarFest is the largest family fundraising festival in the UK. This year’s festival weekends promise to bring us all together, to admire the fastest cars, enjoy performances from some of UK’s best artists, bands and DJs, get involved in incredible food demonstrations and meet a host of the UK’s TV, theatre, music and sports legends. Laverstoke Park Farm, Overton, Basingstoke, Hants, RG25 3DR

Winchester Sausage And Cider Festival

Saturday 19th August

The incredible Sausage and Cider Festival will be returning to Winchester, but this time for a huge outdoor festival hosted at North Walls Recreation Grounds! With over 50m of bars with an amazing range of craft cider from around the UK, cocktails, beers. Plus great food vendors with 12+ types of sausage flavour and other street food vendors available on site. From 14:00 - 23:00. North Walls Recreation Ground, 53 Nuns Rd, Winchester, SO23 7EF. For more information visit: www.sausageandciderfest.co.uk/winchester

Alresford Agricultural Show 2023

Saturday 2nd September

From 8.30am-6pm - The Alresford Agricultural Show is, quite simply, a celebration of rural life and the communities which live in it. It is a one day event, always on the first Saturday in September held in the beautiful Tichborne Park, by kind permission of the Tichborne Estate and Grange Farm Partnership. The park is transformed from cattle grazing land for 3 weeks of the year into the Showground by a dedicated team of volunteers. Tichborne Park, Alresford,

Hampshire, SO24 0PN. For more information visit: www.alresfordshow.co.uk

The Romsey Show

Saturday 9th September

8am-6pm - The Romsey Show takes place in September at Broadlands in Romsey. The Show is one of the largest one-day country shows in the South and is run by a large team of dedicated volunteers. The show provides a fantastic day out with something for all the family to enjoy! Watch displays in the main President's Ring including vintage machinery and steam engines, the Grand Parade of Livestock, Heavy Horse Parade and more. Attractions across the Showground include the popular Countryside Area with plenty of 'have a go' opportunities, livestock and equine classes, live music and stunning floral displays. Bring your dog and take part in the Family Dog Show, scurry and agility area. For more information on what's on, visit the Romsey Show website: romseyshow.co.uk Broadlands Park, Romsey, Hampshire SO51 9ZE.

Hampshire Country Sports Day

Sunday 10th September

The Hampshire Country Sports Day returns to the beautiful Bereleigh Estate, East Meon, near Petersfield. Our continuous arena programme showcases rural sports with gundog and fishing demos, Inter-Hunt competition, Hound Parades, Falconry and lots more. Fancy having a go? All the family can try their hand at Clay Shooting, Archery, Target shooting and Fishing. Don’t leave your best friend at home, well behaved dogs are welcome to come and take part in the fun dog show, gun dog scurry and terrier racing. There are over 100 trade stands offering a great variety of retail therapy and a choice of local foods to tempt your taste buds and a licensed bar selling Bowman Ales, Meon Cider and larger on tap as well as a range of soft drinks. We are a fun, friendly event and we welcome everyone. We look forward to seeing you here in September. For more information visit www. hampshirecountrysportsday.co.uk Bereleigh Estate, East Meon Near Petersfield, GU32 1PH.

The Abbotts Ann Village Fete will take place on Saturday 2nd September from 1pm-5pm

The fete, based in the heart of the village in Duck Street, will feature street entertainment from “Out of Bounds” Theatre Company taking on a Safari theme using recyclable materials plus live music from The Military Wives choir and “Larks” a capella local singing group. Church bellringers will play a wonderful repertoire too.

There will be lots of activities for everyone, tug of war and traditional games with plenty of shopping at local stalls, raffle and an excellent produce show with flowers displayed in St Mary’s Church. We have a Story Teller for children and even a dog show for you and your Dog! Our parade of vintage cars is also a must see and lots more!

Food will be available in abundance with WI teas plus BBQ available at the Eagle Pub with real Ales. If you want to stay longer, a local Overton Band “Out of Office” will perform at the pub all evening! Parking off Church Road.

Hope to see you therE

August / September Events

Do you like singing? In the shower?

In a choir?

Andover Choral are looking for extra Altos, Tenors, Basses and Sopranos. Phone Frances Lynn on 01264 396511 or email Lynncf35@ gmail.com They would love to hear from you. www.andoverchoralsociety.org.uk

Stockbridge Antiques Fair

Saturday 5th August

From 9am to 4.30pm

Stockbridge Town Hall, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE

Sat 5 August & Sat 2 September

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 and free parking. Open: 9.00am4.30pm. Contacts: Carol - 01264 335769/07870 432805 or Steve - 01722 712267/07915 663251.

Broughton Horticultural Society Annual Show

Saturday 5th August

From 2pm to 4pm

Broughton Village Hall High Street, Broughton, SO20 8AX

Broughton Village Hall. Come and join us at our Annual Flower and Vegetable show. Lots of exciting exhibits plus tea and cake and a raffle. Admission £2, children free. Please bring cash.

Days

Out with Thomas

at the Watercress Line Come and enjoy a day out with Thomas the Tank Engine and his

Sat 12th to Sun 20th August

From 9am to 4.30pm

Station Road, New Alresford SO24 9JG

friends. Parking at Ropley Station SO24 0BL. More info contact the Watercress Line.

Army Flying Museum Brick Event

Sat 23rd and Sun 24th August

Museum opening hours

Army Flying Museum, Kentsboro, Stockbridge SO20 8FB

An event featuring LEGO Bricks! Anagram trail throughout the museum. Open build areas to build super flying machines out of LEGO bricks. Display your materbuilds. Mosaic building using LEGO dots. A selection of models on display. Speedbuild challenge and leaderboard. LEGO Duplo area for younger builders. Army Flying Museum, Middle Wallop, Hampshire, SO20 8FB. Book online at: www.thebrickpeople.co.uk

Flower Festival, St Peter’s Church, Stockbridge

Fri 25th to Mon 28th August

From 10am to 6pm

High St, Stockbridge SO20 6HF

Come and see the amazing floral arrangements in our two churches all around the theme “Anything Goes”. The churches are open from 10am until 6 pm each day (Sunday service at 11.00-12.00) and teas are served from 2.005.00 on Sat, Sun, and Monday.

Alresford Show 2023

Saturday 2nd September

From 8.30am to 6pm

Tichborne Park, SO24 0PN

Alresford Show - Meet farm animals from Shire horses to chickens, from prize cattle to sheep. Watch ferret racing, admire the birds of prey and buy country crafts; give your family a day out which will reconnect you to the countryside. www.alresfordshow.co.uk

International Vulture Awareness Day at The Hawk Conservancy Trust

From Saturday 2nd September

The Hawk Conservancy Trust Sarson Lane, Weyhill, Andover Hampshire, SP11 8DY

At the Hawk Conservancy Trust we love vultures, so every day is vulture awareness day! If you would like to celebrate these incredible birds, join us on the first Saturday in September to learn more about vultures and why we need them. Vultures are ecologically vital and are now the most threatened group of birds in the world; populations of many species are under pressure and some are facing extinction. Tickets: This event is free as part of a pre-booked visit. www.hawk-conservancy.org

Black Chalk X Totally Voices for Hospices Choir

Saturday 2nd September

Rehearsal 3pm, Perform 7pm

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey, SO51 0QA

For more information

visit:vfhchoir.com - Massed come and Sing. The Armed Man a Mass for Peace. Sir Karl Jenkins. Conducted by John Sutton, accompanied by the VfH Sinfonia.

Music on the Test 23

Sunday 3rd September Come and join us at Houghton

Sunday 3rd September

Houghton, North Houghton, Stockbridge, SO20 6LQ

Lodge for an afternoon of music with Test Valley Brass and Liza Marshall (singer), followed by Loose Change (Band), followed by Marie Ponting (Singer) From 2pm until 5pm. Celebrate the 230th Anniversary of Houghton Lodge. Marquee available in case of rain - Bring your own chairs, tables, gazebos etc. Tickets £15, Children under 14 FREE. Tickets available from Chris Lynn01264 396511. Christopher. lynn36@gmail.com Tea and lunch in a box available - Price on application.

East Tytherley

September Fayre

Saturday 2nd September

From 1pm - 5pm

The Church Field East Tytherley SP5 1LN

In collaboration with The South Central Makers Market, an exciting afternoon of attractions to ensure fun for all the family. BBQ, bar, Pimms, live music, a fun dog show, gymkhana displays from Hursley Pony Club, circus skill’s workshops, and fire performer, inflatable slide, children’s games, classic cars, vintage tractors, wide range of craft and trade stalls. We are also looking forward to welcoming Lockerley Estate farm to share information around their ‘Farming with Nature’ ethos as well as other displays and stands with information around ‘green’ lifestyle choices.

If you would like your event listed in our diary dates then please email your contribution to editor@ forumpublications.co.uk

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 Forum10% to gain 10% off a Bouquet or Bucket of Blooms to treat yourself or a loved one. 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

Serving Broughton and the surrounding Test Valley

Easy free parking

Great range of local supplies - Essentials and treats

Chillled - frozen - deli - fresh fruit & veg - wine - spirits - beers

Dry cleaning service

Post Office Counter Mail, Parcelforce, collection/returns, banking, bill payment, travel money – and more

Eco- Products

Liquid household refills

Bring a bottle and fill with soap, washing up liquid, laundry liquid, cleaners, shampoo and conditioner

TheFinestDiamonds&ColouredGemstones

TheFinestDiamonds&ColouredGemstones

FinestDiamonds&ColouredGemstones

40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200

40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200

Coffee Shop

Eco-zone products

Plant-based, natural ingredients for smart cleaning

The Magnificent Seed Extra virgin Rapese ed oil on tap

Loose bird food, seeds, and peanuts

Caffia bean to cup coffee, teas, hot chocolate

Delicious range of local hand-made cakes

Children’s area with books and toys

Free water top-up centre

Takeaway hot drinks – 10% off with own cup

40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200

www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200

www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200

40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200

www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

Re-Opening 12th April

Re-Opening 12th April

Re-Opening 12th April

Indoor and outdoor seating

Shop Opening Hours

Weekdays: 9am - 5pm

Saturday: 9am - 12:30pm

Sunday: 9:30am - 12:30pm

Post Office Opening Hours

Weekdays: 9am - 5pm

Saturday: 9am - 12:00pm

Sunday: Closed

www.broughton.shop

Broughton Community Shop, Village Hall, High Street, Broughton, SO20 8AX

Free Hearing Tests to Celebrate The Alresford Hearing Studio 4th Aniversary

Our unparalleled commitment to customer care is reinforced by over 230 online 5* reviews which our professional team is justly proud of. ‘After a disappointment from another national supplier, the experience with Sam at Alresford has been outstanding. he has all the technology to make the right proposition, is clear and unrushed, and instils real confidence. it’s a small outfit, but all the better for that. I would unhesitatingly recommend’

J. Kelly

Cutting-Edge Technology

By considering factors such as lifestyle, communication preferences, and budget, we work together with our customers to find the best possible solution that not only enhances their hearing but also complements their overall well-being.

Community Engagement

Beyond providing exceptional care, The Alresford Hearing Studio is deeply committed to actively engaging with the community we serve. Over the past four years, we have participated in various educational initiatives, awareness campaigns, and outreach programs to spread knowledge about hearing health, the importance of regular check-ups, and have partnered with local charities and sports and social clubs.

As our family run independent hearing studio reaches the milestone of four years of supporting the local community, we take great pride in celebrating helping our customers to regain the joy of hearing and enhanced quality of life. Established in 2019 the Alresford Hearing Studio has built an unrivalled reputation locally for customer service, value and commitment to the local community. Quality testing and aftercare services coupled with investment in technology and word of mouth referrals from our valued customers has built a business that our friendly team is justly proud of. We strive to provide exceptional customer care, cutting-edge technology, and personalised solutions for over 700 local residents who have experienced hearing difficulties. We have also helped over 7000 individuals regain their hearing through the simple method of ear wax removal.

A Commitment to Exceptional Care:

From the very beginning, our primary focus has been on delivering unparalleled care to our valued customers. We understand the impact hearing loss can have on one's quality of life, relationships, and overall well-being. With our team of dedicated and highly trained audiology professionals and support staff, we are committed to providing comprehensive hearing assessments, personalised treatment plans, targeted wax removal and ongoing support throughout our customer's hearing journey.

At The Alresford Hearing Studio, we recognise the significance of staying at the forefront of technological advancements in the field of audiology. By offering the latest in hearing aid technology and advanced diagnostic tools, we ensure that our customers receive the most accurate assessments and effective solutions tailored to their unique needs. Our partnerships with leading hearing aid manufacturers enable us to offer a wide range of options, from discreet and sophisticated devices to those specifically designed for the most challenging listening environments.

Personalised Solutions:

No two patients are alike, and this principle holds true when it comes to hearing loss and rehabilitation. Understanding the importance of personalised care, our team takes the time to listen to our customers and learn about any concerns they may have to enable us to create a bespoke solution that addresses their specific individual needs, all undertaken in our relaxed studio environment.

As we mark our fourth anniversary, we would like to extend our gratitude to our loyal customers who have trusted us with their hearing health. We also extend our warmest welcome to those who are yet to experience the difference The Alresford Hearing Studio can make in their lives. To celebrate this milestone, from 1st August to 30th September we will now be offering:

Free Hearing Tests for New Patients and Special Offers on Selected Hearing Aids for New and Existing Patients

If you feel you would benefit from a free fully comprehensive hearing test then please contact our friendly team on 01962 790749 or visit alresfordhearingstudio.co.uk for more details.

What is a Blue Zone? And why am I travelling to one for my holidays?

This year I am lucky enough to take a holiday abroad, and when considering the destination, I chose to explore a Blue Zone. I have been intrigued by the Blue Zones ever since I came across the term a few years ago. These are areas of the world which have not only the longest lived communities, but also the most healthy and content.

National Geographic explorer, Dan Buettner and his team have identified these 5 areas:

Sardinia, Italy – home to the world's longest-lived men.

Okinawa, Japan – home to the world's longest-lived women. Loma Linda, California – Seventh-day Adventist community that outlives the average person by a decade.

Ikaria, Greece – a tiny island community with significantly reduced rates of common chronic illnesses.

Nicoya, Costa Rica - where people are more than twice as likely to reach 90 years of age.

Through reading Dan’s books, listening to him talk and following him on social media, I have been fascinated to discover the common lifestyle factors that are shared amongst these communities, and how I might apply that to my own life and to that of my friends, family and patients. Now with the opportunity to travel, I have decided to start my own Blue Zone discovery tour with the very first Blue Zone to have been named in October 2004; Sardinia.

I am curious to go beyond the pages of a book and to feel for myself how these communities live and what I can learn from them. I am excited about the possibility of extending my health-span (as opposed to life-span (see July’s article!)) and living longer in good health. Sadly, increasing numbers of people end their lives in pain and distress, having been affected by loneliness, depression and chronic diseases. Much of this can be avoided as we begin to understand that it is more our environment that shapes the outcome of our lives, and less so our genes.

So why do Sardinian’s live so much happier and healthier lives, and especially the men?

The longest lived communities live in the mountains, but beyond that, I look forward to finding out more reasons for their good health, such as how do they manage stress? Whether religion plays a role? What is the typical diet? Do they use traditional and natural medicines? Is there inter-generational living? What does their daily activity, movement and exercise consist of?

I gather their Cannonou red wine has 2-3 times the artery-scrubbing flavenoid content of the average bottle. They drink often, sharing bottles with friends and family and always in a very sociable way. I very much look forward to experiencing this tradition! I am so excited to have such an interesting purpose to my holiday this year, and I will be sure to report back and share all the details that I learn relevant to improving the quality of our lives back here in the UK.

On a separate note, the Womo Women’s Health course returns in October, be sure to book your place early, they go like hot cakes! To find our more, visit www.the-sop.com/womo

Emma Wightman - www.the-sop.com

Take action this Summer - Join Womo to reap the benefits of moving differently and understanding your body better

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

• Fatigue, irritability, stress or anxiety

• Back or pelvic pain

• Loss of strength and mobility, or tummy gap

• Pelvic floor concerns, such as leaking or prolapse

• Cycle or menopause symptoms

• Loss of motivation, confidence and trust in your body

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

Monday mornings 9.30am-11.30am

2nd, 9th, 16th and 30th October - 6th and 13th November

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

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

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

For further details, reserving your place and payment, please go online www.the-sop.com/womo or call us on: 01264 810028

New report celebrates Farming in Protected Landscapes

More than 5,000 farmers and land managers have now benefited from the Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme, new figures have shown.

The programme, now in its third year, offers funding to farmers across AONBs and National Parks. Support for nature recovery and climate resilient businesses, heritage conservation and better access for people to enjoy our protected landscapes all feature in programme delivery. To date, £25 million has been allocated, and more than 2,400 projects have been approved for funding.

The new report – Farming in Protected Landscapes programme: Year 2 update –showcases projects across National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) which have benefited from the Defra funding. Examples include The Pollinator Project in North Wessex Downs AONB – a group of 20 farmers collaborating to improve the landscape for key pollinators and invertebrates; and Dalefoot Farm in the Yorkshire Dales, an area which includes SSSI designation, supporting nature recovery through the establishment of a network of hedgerows, riparian strips and trees that connect the existing ancient semi-natural woodland.

Neil Heseltine, NPE Chair and Chair of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, said: ‘Our work across protected landscapes to help farmers and land owners engage with the FiPL programme shows how important partnership working and collaboration are to driving forward sustainable land management initiatives. As a farmer myself, I have seen the nature and biodiversity crisis that the country faces grow more acute. Whilst farming is often seen as one source of this crisis, it is only through harnessing farmers as partners in aspiration, that we will overcome it. The challenge is to inspire and reward farmers for delivering positive benefits for nature whilst running profitable businesses. It is therefore essential that the Government commit to embedding the principles of FiPL within the environmental land management offer beyond 2024.’

Tom Munro, Dorset AONB Manager and NAAONB Agriculture & Land Use Panel spokesperson added: ‘The huge successes of FIPL over the last two years has demonstrated how AONB teams are uniquely placed to facilitate on-farm projects to deliver for nature, climate, people and place across these treasured landscapes. While our pre-existing networks with farmers and advisers helped us hit the ground running, FIPL has helped us cement these

relationships and to be regarded as trusted delivery bodies. These landscapes have been shaped by thousands of years of farming and it’s only by working like this at scale with farmers that we will adequately respond to the climate and ecological emergency while ensuring rural communities thrive underpinned by sustainable farm businesses.’

The report was launched today at a meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for National Parks. Attendees heard from representatives from across protected landscapes and farming community about the importance of sustainability and land management to the future of these special places, and how farmers and other land managers play a vital role in shaping the landscapes they operate within to enhance the natural and cultural heritage, improve productivity, and create more vibrant, sustainable communities.

To read the report, please visit: https://issuu.com/nationalparksengland/ docs/0345_npe_fipl_report_2023_a4_ spreads_web

Salisbury Cathedral School

Welcomes former pupil and renowned philanthropist

Hamish Ogston CBE as Guest of Honour for Speech Day

Hamish attended Salisbury Cathedral School from 1957 to 1961, following in the footsteps of his older brother Bruce, as a chorister in the Cathedral choir. His exceptional career and philanthropic works were recognised in 2011 when he was awarded a CBE for services to business and community. His philanthropic work continues to be inspirational. The goals of his charitable foundation are to preserve historic buildings throughout the world by funding heritage skills apprenticeship programmes, to support and enhance the UK’s historic Choral Music and organ tradition, and to work towards eliminating the disparities in both access to medical treatment and health awareness around the world by funding vital research.

will undoubtedly inspire our whole school community.”

Hamish Ogston, Founder of the Hamish Ogston Foundation and former chorister and pupil of Salisbury Cathedral School said: “It is an honour to return to Salisbury Cathedral School on its speech day, to revisit its historic grounds and to meet with the pupils and staff that benefit from them today. My interest in our country’s oldest living cultural heritage, choral music, stemmed from my time at the school, and it gives me great pleasure now, as it did then, to hear this music echo through the nave of Salisbury Cathedral.”

Salisbury Cathedral School proudly welcomed former pupil and renowned philanthropist Hamish Ogston CBE to its annual prizegiving ceremony in Salisbury Cathedral on Friday 7 July 2023. In his capacity as guest of honour, Hamish spoke to the audience of parents, pupils and staff about his life experiences and presented the end of year prizes.

Clive Marriott, Salisbury Cathedral School Head Master, comments: “We were honoured to welcome Hamish back to school today. His outstanding philanthropy, which follows a quite remarkable business career, is the true embodiment of our school mission to develop the whole child, preparing them to make a positive influence in the world. As a former pupil and chorister, Mr. Ogston's success story

Mr Ogston’s hot air balloon was also inflated in the grounds of the school for a tethered flight after the ceremony. The former pupil’s presence at the speech day and his hot air balloon elevated the occasion to new heights and provided a memorable experience for all in attendance. The Salisbury Cathedral School Speech Day is an annual event that celebrates the academic, artistic, and athletic achievements of its pupils.

Tel: 01722 555300

www.salisburycathedralschool.com

St Swithun's Prep School Appoints Sue Powell as Head of Early Years Foundation Stage

St Swithun's Prep School is pleased to announce the appointment of Sue Powell as Head of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Sue, who has been an integral part of the school community for the past two years, will also be joining the Senior Management Team (SMT) from September.

Sue Powell brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. As the current Head of English and a dedicated class teacher at St Swithun's Prep School, she has consistently demonstrated her passion for education and commitment to the students' well-being and academic success.

With an impressive career spanning various independent schools and spanning the

entire age range of children educated in the primary phase, Sue has gained extensive experience working with children aged 3-11. Her deep understanding of the unique needs and developmental stages of young learners has contributed to her success in fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment.

As a member of the Senior Management Team, Sue will play a pivotal role in shaping the school's Early Years Foundation Stage provision and ensuring its alignment with best practice in pursuit of excellence in all aspects of children's development.

Outgoing Prep Headteacher Jonathan Brough stated, “I am delighted that Sue will be taking a well-deserved step up to manage our Early Years groups at St Swithun's. It has been a real joy and privilege to work alongside her in a number of different roles for over a decade. I have watched her flourish here during the past two years and I cannot wait to hear about her successes to come.”

Incoming Headteacher Liz Norris said on the appointment, 'We are thrilled that Sue will be taking on her new role as Head of

EYFS at St Swithun's Prep from September. Her extensive experience, deep commitment to education, and passion for early years learning will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and success of our Early Years provision. We look forward to the positive impact she will have on our students and staff alike."

Sue will officially assume her new responsibilities as Head of EYFS in September. The entire St Swithun's Prep School community congratulates her on this well-deserved appointment and wishes her every success in her new role.

St Swithun’s Prep School, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1HA 01962 587206

www.stswithuns.com

Home & Garden Furniture in stock or available to pre-order FREE local delivery

Breakfast | Brunch | Lunch | Afternoon Tea

Private hire now available in our fully licensed coffee lounge

the_summerhouse_coffee_lounge

SummerHouse2022

summerhouse-restaurant.co.uk

Choosing the right grass for your garden

Which lawn grass is best?

How is your lawn looking? If it’s not great, then understanding the reasons behind that is important to its improvement. Perhaps it could have more to do with the grass type than how the grass is cared for. Most people assume grass is just grass and give little thought to the different species of grasses, or indeed the varieties of grass within the species.

Why is lawn grass type important?

Different grass types have different characteristics. These influence the suitability of one grass over another in the setting for which it is being used. If you have ever been on a golf course and noticed how short the grass is cut on the greens and tees, this is far shorter than most grass in a domestic lawn should be cut. That’s because the grass of the golf green has been selected for its ability to tolerate short mowing. Grass on a football pitch is not mown as short but needs to recover quickly from destructive boots with studs. Maybe it seems obvious that different grass types need to be used in these two different examples. So why not in your lawn?

Choosing lawn grass types

Things have moved forward massively in seed breeding and improvement of lawn grass varieties. Suppliers run trials to develop grass with certain key attributes. Grass that is deeper rooted, drought or disease resistant, greener, quicker to germinate, more tolerant of acid or alkaline soils, harder wearing… the list goes on and on. The reason they invest in this is that there are many different applications for how amenity grass is used and the environment in which it is grown. The grass seed they supply needs to perform well in those environments. If you live on the Isle of Wight, you are likely to need different lawn grass varieties than if you live on the Isle of Man.

What grass seed should I use?

Understanding how you use your lawns, how you want them to look, and what environment you are growing them in, influences what species should be chosen for your specific requirements. Some people love to mow their lawn and are dedicated to the task, wanting neat lines and a short leaf. Bent grasses and fescues are suited to this. Others may want a hard-wearing lawn that children and the dog can tear around on. Dwarf rye grasses can work well in these environments but are less tolerant of short mowing and don’t reproduce to fill the gaps in the lawn – meaning you need to consider annual over-seeding. Maybe smooth stalk meadow grass would be better, or a creeping red fescue or brown top bent… the list goes on.

Should I over-seed my lawn?

How did your lawn come to exist? Maybe you inherited it when you moved to your home. Perhaps you had it laid from turf, or sown from seeds bought without consideration of the points raised above. Is your lawn ideally suited to the growing conditions in your garden and how you want to use it? If not, it can be adjusted to provide you with a better-looking lawn that you can enjoy all year round? That is the beauty of over-seeding a lawn. You don’t have to make do with the grass plants that the turf grower found easiest or quickest to grow and sell. Or a lawn grown from cheaper seed by a housing developer. We can introduce new grasses that are better suited to you and your family.

Should I seed or turf my lawn?

Turfing is instant, like laying a carpet or buying a suit off the peg. Who is to say how well that turf is going to cope with the specific conditions in your garden. A bespoke suit is likely to fit you and your needs better. A bespoke lawn can be created exactly to fit you, your garden and how you want to use it. Lawns grown from seed always establish better than those grown from turf as the grass varieties in the chosen seed mix will be better suited to the growing conditions. This may all sound relatively complicated. If lawncare was easy, we wouldn’t be in business. The great news is that your existing lawn can be altered significantly with professional overseeding. If you think you deserve a better lawn then get in touch with a lawncare professional.

Ian Kenyon sits on the committee of the UK Lawn Care Association and owns Shrekfeet Professional Lawncare. He is always happy to offer friendly, professional advice and help:

T: 01962 460146 www.shrekfeet.com

Select the right seed for the conditions

Root development trials

Seed breeder trial plots

Welcome to the Socal BBQ Shop... the home of BBQ. 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!

Charles Ramseyer MANAGING DIRECTOR

Socal, Southampton Calor Centre, Third Avenue, Millbrook, Southampton, SO15 0JX

T: 02380 788155

E: sales@socal.co.uk

W: socalbbqshop.co.uk

@socalbbqshop

Salmon Bucatini Pasta with Creamy Spinach Sauce

SERVES 4 PEOPLE

INGREDIENTS

• 380g pasta

• 2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 250g fresh salmon fillets, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly crushed

• 100g fresh baby spinach leaves

• 160g creme fraiche

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper

METHOD

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Lightly salt the boiling water, fold in the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions, about 8 minutes.

Heat the extra-virgin olive in large pan over medium-low heat, add the salmon and garlic and saute until cooked through. Once cooked put the salmon aside and then sautée the leaves for 2 minutes or until cooked through, adding a little pasta water if necessary. Once cooked drain any excess moisture and combine the spinach with the cooked salmon.

Drain the al dente pasta, add it to the pan with the salmon and spinach, and sautée all the ingredients for one more minute.

Remove the pan from the heat, carefully stir in the creme fraiche, lemon zest and chopped parsley.

Season with freshly cracked black pepper and salt to taste and serve immediately.

WARNER

The Romsey Show 2023

The Romsey Show takes place in September at Broadlands in Romsey. The Show is one of the largest one-day country shows in the South and is run by a large team of dedicated volunteers. The show provides a fantastic day out with something for all the family to enjoy!

Watch displays in the main President's Ring including vintage machinery and steam engines, the Grand Parade of Livestock, Heavy Horse Parade and more. Attractions across the Showground include the popular Countryside Area with plenty of 'have a go' opportunities, livestock and equine classes, live music and stunning floral displays. Bring your dog and take part in the Family Dog Show, scurry and agility area. The Show welcomes a wide range of local businesses and organisations, with shopping opportunities galore. The dedicated Food Zone, complete with bandstand and picnic area, offers a variety of food and drink from local producers using quality ingredients. The Food Zone is also home to the Hampshire Fare Skills Kitchen with chefs demonstrating everything from seafood prep to patisserie and butchery.

With free entry to the Show for children aged 11 years and under, there's plenty of fun activities for all ages including the interactive Longdown Mobile Farm, Kids Kitchen, Little Explorers and lots more!

The Show is an action-packed day, open from 8am - 6pm with free parking - don't miss out!

For animal fans…

• The Countryside Area – jam packed with animals

• The Sheep Show – several shows throughout the day

• Grand Parade of Livestock – Taking place within the cattle rings this year – 3pm

• Heavy Horse Parade & Turnout – Main President’s Ring – 3:45pm

• Reptile Area – located in block A (head towards the Food Zone)

• Variety of horse, donkey, sheep and cattle classes. Don’t miss the jumping in the Main President’s Ring

• Popell Barns Mobile Farm – meet the animals up close!

Entertainment for all ages - New for 2023!

• Osborne Refrigeration Double Harness Horse Scurry Championships – in The Main President’s Ring

• The Tigers Motorbike Display Team – in The Main President’s Ring

• BMX Display Area

Returning favourites!

• Parade of machinery and classic cars – in The Main President’s Ring

• Forging history – Military farriers

• The Mole Show – a funny educational show on the life of the humble mole!

• Small Horticulture area

• New Forest Tractor & Engine Club

• Locks Heath Classic Car Club

• Fire Service Preservation Group

• Rabbits & Cavies from City of Portsmouth Fanciers

• Poultry from City of Portsmouth Fanciers (subject to Avian Flu restrictions)

• Art Tent

• Fairground

• Shopping & Craft Tents plus plenty of outside shopping

• Wessex Film & Sound Archive Team with their mobile cinema

• Chuffley Train (small cost applies)

Local Youth Groups

As well as hundreds of trade stands inside and outside, we also welcome lots of clubs and organisations from the Local Area that help at the Show including Romsey Young Farmers, Scouts, Army Cadets, Sea Cadets and Air Cadets. Lots of these organisations have plenty of “have a go” activities on their stands for you to join in with including archery, an assault course and ball skills.

Food Zone Area

The Food Zone area is very popular with visitors – located to the left side of the showground as you come in the main gate.

• Food trade stands – selling a mixture of local and international produce

• Skills Kitchen featuring Hampshire’s finest chefs run by Hampshire Fare

• Honey Tent

• WI Tent

• Floral Art Tent

• Beggars Fair performance area and picnic spot

For more information visit: www.romseyshow.co.uk

Going Batty

As dusk falls over a Hampshire chalk stream, those looking skyward may see strange shadows flit into view.

Charismatic and enigmatic in equal measure, bats are some of the UK’s most fascinating animals. Our county’s chalk streams – each humming with insect life – make it an attractive place for these winged wonders.

Many different bat species frequent our waterways, from the high-flying noctule to the diminutive soprano pipistrelle. The Daubenton’s bat is even called the “water bat” for its love of ponds, lakes, and rivers. When the sun goes down, this aerial expert can be seen swooping close to the water in search of a tasty meal.

Every bat species has its favourite food, but all feast on various types of insects. Chalk stream residents like mayflies and caddisflies are on the menu, as are mosquitoes, moths, and beetles. The tiny size of their prey means that bats spend a lot of time hunting – the common pipistrelle can eat 3,000 insects in one night!

While their abundant insect life makes them great places for feeding, our chalk streams have more to offer. Bankside trees supply temporary shelter, while bridges provide potential roosting spaces. Female bats roost together in the summer, when they have their babies, and all bats hibernate in roosts during the winter.

Sadly, like many wildlife species, the UK’s bats are struggling to thrive. Loss of habitat, shrinking insect populations, disease, and pollution have caused their numbers to decline in recent years. Luckily there are local volunteers, like those of Hampshire Bat Group, who are supporting these amazing animals.

Among the group’s many projects is the installation of 65 bat boxes in the Alresford and Overton areas. The project, which received two Watercress and Winterbournes Community Grants, aims to provide roosting spaces near the River Alre and Upper Test. The boxes will be checked twice a year for signs of use.

If you’d like to support our local bats, there are many ways to help. You could hang a bat

box on a tree or a wall of your home. You could also turn your garden into a bat haven – try adding a pond, reducing artificial light, and planting night-scented flowers. The Bat Conservation Trust website has lots of good advice.

Do you have an idea for a chalk stream project? You could receive up to £5,000 to make your vision a reality, with a Watercress and Winterbournes Community Grant. For more details, visit www.hiwwt.org.uk/ winterbournes/communitygrants. Our work is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Free Online Talks

The Murky World of Water Resources

Guest speaker – WildFish

10th August, 7-8pm

Southern Water’s 2024 Water Resources Management Plan

Guest speaker – Southern Water 22nd August, 7-8pm

Book at: www.hiwwt.org.uk/events

Photograph © Chris Damant

Test Valley residents help form council’s new four-year plan

Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) is delighted to share its new four-year plan, which has been developed using the views of around 2,000 residents. The plan for 2023 - 2027 will play a key part in determining decision-making, laying out the council’s vision, values, priorities and place-based approach for residents.

For the last year, TVBC has been engaging with residents to find out their priorities and what they want to see in the borough. This included workshops which took place at the end of 2022. The plan was officially launched (Wednesday 28 June), with those who took part invited to be the first to take a look at the new four-year plan.

It focuses on five main priorities:

• Sustainability – delivering lasting benefits for our communities

• Connection – building upon our communities’ identities, strengths and ambitions

• Environment – a greener borough for all

• Inclusion – working together to create opportunities

• Prosperity – creating economic growth that impacts positively on our communities

Our annual Corporate Action Plan will detail how the priorities will be delivered during the next year and on. The four-year plan also reflects our commitment to working with our communities in a way that celebrates their uniqueness, sense of belonging and the ambitions people have for the places where they live.

Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Cllr Phil North, said: “This plan has the residents’ voices at its heart and I’m delighted we have now been able to launch it and outline our priorities and vision for the next four years. A lot of work has gone into shaping it and I’m thankful to everyone across the borough who contributed. The plan will be vital in shaping the way we do things until 2027.”

You can now take a look at the full four-year plan by visiting our website www.testvalley.gov.uk/FourYearPlan

Four year plan launch event (Image: Test Valley Borough Council)

2 Medium Individial Panelled Sectional Doors

Small Panelled Sectional Door with accompanying Solidor front door Solidor Front Door

Stockbridge Cinema

She Said (15)

Wednesday 23 August 7.30pm

Based on the bombshell New York Times investigation, She Said follows the remarkable true story of how reporters Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor went from underdogs to inspirations by shattering the silence surrounding sexual assault in Hollywood. Determined to expose the truth many fear to tell, Megan and Jodi's partnership shakes up the system, empowering courageous women to retake their strength through stories of survival in this extraordinary film from Emmy-winning director Maria Schrader, featuring captivating performances by two-time Academy Award nominee Carey Mulligan and Zoe Kazan.

Close (12)

Friday 8 September 7.30pm

Winner of the Grand Prix award at Cannes 2022 and selected as the Belgian entry for the 2023 Academy Awards, CLOSE is an elegant, poetic and empathetic study of youth from acclaimed writer-director Lukas Dhont. Thirteen-year-olds Leo and Remi are inseparable; they spend every waking moment together, racing each other on their bikes, playing in the fields that surround their homes, and sleeping at each other's houses. They are best friends, as close as brothers. However, as they start a new school year, the pressures of burgeoning adolescence challenge their bond with unexpected and far-reaching consequences.

Allelujah (12)

Wednesday 13 September 5.00pm and 7.30pm

When the geriatric ward in a small Yorkshire hospital is threatened with closure, the hospital decides to fight back by galvanizing the local community: they invite a news crew to film their preparations for a concert in honour of the hospital's most distinguished nurse. What could possibly go wrong? Allelujah celebrates the spirit of the elderly patients whilst paying tribute to the deep humanity of the medical staff battling with limited resources and evergrowing demand. A warm and deeply moving comedy/drama about surviving old age featuring a host of talented British actors including Jennifer Saunders, Judy Dench and Derek Jacobi.

Information common to all 3 films:

Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall SO20 6HE. Tickets can be purchased online (£6.00 incl £0.50p booking fee per ticket) via www.stockbridgecinema.org.uk or by telephone from TicketSource 0333 666 3366 (£1.80 charge per telephone booking in addition to the online ticket price). Please visit our website for more details.

Test Valley Borough Council acts swiftly to protect Andover street art

The work, which depicts a policeman interacting with a teddy bear, appears to be done by an artist known as ‘Hendog’, whose style is similar to that of the street artist known as Banksy. It is believed to be part of a series of pieces, with similar artworks appearing in Guildford and Camberley.

The piece appeared on Chantry Street in the early hours of Tuesday morning and has since gained lots of social media attention, with many residents asking for the artwork to stay. TVBC has responded quickly to make sure the piece is protected, with two transparent acrylic sheets being installed over the top of it, while further options are considered.

Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Cllr Phil North, said:

“There was much excitement and engagement when this piece of art appeared, so it felt necessary that swift action be taken to ensure it was protected. That gives us the time and space to investigate what we do in the future, whilst it’s kept safe. Including, what, if any, consents are required to keep it and if there is a better way of preserving it.

“Someone close to the artist has also contacted me to explain some of the context behind the piece - actually a series of pieces. She’s suggested that it shines a light on homelessness. Starting with a lost bear (in Guildford), a little girl putting up lost bear posters (in Camberley) and now the bear on a journey (through Andover) before potentially being reunited in the future.

“The Andover artwork shows a policeman interacting with the bear. I suppose it’s open to interpretation whether that’s ushering the bear away or pointing him in the right direction. I have to say, my experience of the police locally is that they’d do the latter. Not least because in Test Valley we will always make an offer of emergency accommodation to any local person we are aware is sleeping rough."

An unusual piece of street art that appeared in Andover Town Centre on Tuesday 4 July in the morning has been protected by Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC).

Is Shared Ownership the key to buying your own home?

Shared Ownership has been helping people onto the property ladder for the last 30 years. But how much do you really know about the scheme?

What is Shared Ownership?

Shared Ownership provides people who don’t currently own a home the opportunity to purchase a share in a property. The scheme is a cross between buying and renting, allowing the purchaser to buy a share in a property usually between 25% and 75%, paying rent on the remaining share. You can buy a 10% share on some homes.

Why Shared Ownership?

Shared Ownership mortgages can provide access to home ownership that would otherwise be out of reach for many people. The deposit can be lower and there is also the option to buy further shares in the property (known as ‘staircasing’) in the future, providing buyers with the opportunity for full ownership down the line.

Other benefits include:

• Your deposit can be as little as 5% of the value of your share. For example, if you were purchasing a property with a 50% share of a £200,000 purchase price, the 5% deposit would be £5,000.

• You can gradually increase your share in the property when you can afford to and eventually own the property outright.

• Your chosen housing provider will be required to support you with the cost of essential repairs and maintenance for a period of 10 years.

You will be eligible if;

• You are aged 18 and over, but it is worth noting that some mortgage lenders will require the minimum lending age to be 21 years old.

• In most cases you will also need to have enough savings to cover a minimum 5-10% of the share you are buying as a deposit. In addition you will costs of buying a home, such as solicitor’s fees.

• You have a gross household income of no more than £80,000 per annum or £90,000 per annum in London.

• You do not currently own a home.

• You are not in rent arrears and can demonstrate that you have a good credit history (no bad debts, no missed payments on credit agreements or County Court Judgements) and can afford the regular payments and costs involved in buying a home.

How do I get a Shared Ownership mortgage? Not all lenders provide shared ownership mortgages, but many of the major banks and building societies (including Newbury Building Society!) do.

Housing Associations providing shared ownership properties will usually have a list independent financial advisors who can advise on a mortgage that is right for you. You can also use your own financial adviser to arrange a mortgage too.

We offer mortgage appointments online, over the phone, and in person.

Call: 01635 555700 or visit: www.newbury.co.uk

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

Newbury Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number 206077). English Law applies and we will communicate with you in English. We are participants of the Financial Ombudsman Service. We have a complaints procedure which we will provide on request. Most complaints that we cannot resolve can be referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service. 9570 Building Society