Test Valley Forum - Issue 181 - Sept 23

Life in your Community

HAMPSHIRE & ISLE OF WIGHT TRUST

Environmental FeatureKing of the River

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Fried potatoes with bacon, mushrooms & onions

LIFESTYLE FEATURE BY MICA BALE

A fallen leaf is nothing more than a summer's wave goodbye

NEWS & EVENTS FOR SEPTEMBER

Find out what's going on in the Test Valley

Guide Price £585,000

A character cottage with countryside views

In a quiet position on the edge of the village. Potential to extend (subject to planning). Kitchen, dining room, sitting room, cloakroom with shower, family room, bathroom, 4 bedrooms. Garden, ample parking, single garage.

Guide Price £465,000

A charming brick and flint semi-detached cottage In a peaceful position within the village. Hall, sitting room with log-burner, dining room, kitchen, 3 bedrooms, family bathroom. Garden, terrace, garden, shed.

Guide Price £300,000

A rare opportunity to purchase a Freehold building plot

Planning consent for a detached property with an open-plan kitchen/ sitting room, snug/office, utility room, 4 double bedrooms, one ensuite, family bathroom. Double garage, gardens and terrace. Proposed air source heat pump and EV car charging point.

Guide Price £875,000

An immaculate house in the heart of the village

Kitchen/dining room, sitting room with log burner, family room/study. Main bedroom with ensuite, 2 further bedrooms, family/bathroom. Wonderful gardens with two terraces, summerhouse. Parking for three cars. Detached double garage.

The Team

Director

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

A fallen leaf is nothing more than a summer's wave goodbye

Feeling more than a little cheated of your summer? Whereas some in the UK have been basking in beautiful sunlight many of us are already reaching for our woolly jumpers. Even the local pubs have been known to stick a few defeated logs on the fire in an attempt to warm up the patrons with more than just the spirits. Yes, as we welcome yet another new month, many of us are feeling this peculiar transitional moment between the seasons.

As many families are sending the kids back to school and yet another autumn term rolls around, for adults too, this time of year feels like the harbinger of change. Perhaps some are starting new jobs or watching as their little ones progress into the next stage of their education or early work life.

Many of us still feel that back-to-school atmosphere at this time of the year, even if the days of new shoes and slightly too big school jumpers complete with a raid on the local stationery shop are long behind us.

For some of us, the summer has still been busy even if the weather has been more than a little disappointing. From tripping around from festival to festival, planning long-awaited holidays, attending weddings and trying to be spontaneous, it can be exhausting and lead to burn out.

Many of us though have our thoughts turned to the impending wintry weather and the nights slowly beginning to draw in. Instead of this beautiful time of year being a moment before the doldrums set in, actually this month can be all about preparing for a successful and enjoyable quarter ahead.

Perhaps instead of lamenting the months gone we should look forward to the new beginnings. In centuries gone by this was the beginning of a time of year when the labours of the previous months were beginning to be enjoyed, latter crops were beginning to flourish, apples were beginning to fall from the trees and the season of jamming and pickling was beginning to be enjoyed.

In the 21st century, our productivity is not always as dependent on the weather. Many of us still work 9-5 come rain or shine. School uniforms still need washing, shopping trips and nights out with our friends have little dependency on long, bright days or shorter, darker ones other, perhaps, than which shoes or boots we should wear.

How do you fancy a nostalgic autumn ahead? You know the ones, when you may have returned to school after the seemingly never-ending freedom of the school summer holidays and the air just feels a little different. Summer shoes and attire mismatch with early apple crumbles and winter warmers. The mornings are beginning to be a little crisper and thoughts of the long and dark nights lie ahead. It can be a cosy feeling.

For many people this time of year provides a nice opportunity for a reset. Never mind what has gone in the previous months and whether you managed to achieve all your summer goals, what is coming up on your horizon? Perhaps you’d like to plan a cheeky last-minute holiday or maybe you are keen to push towards your health and fitness goals.

Instead, applying the principle of enjoying a reset day but stretched across several weeks can be a rewarding and nourishing experience that helps us to live in the moment instead of pining for a time and season and yes, sometimes, even an atmosphere, that might feel out of reach.

How about prioritising some well-placed wellness activities or maybe you would just like to enjoy the season ahead, complete with country walks in some of Hampshire’s most beautiful natural spots. This time of year doesn’t have to signal a goodbye to summer and its fun. Why not set yourself a local photography challenge and take the opportunity to go outside, get some extra steps in and collate a beautiful album of a Hampshire autumn? With the stunning national parks at our fingertips - and toetips - Hampshire provides boundless opportunities to enjoy the spellbinding nature around us.

Have you taken a tastebud tour of some of the county’s best ciders or sourced local ingredients to make a meal from scratch? As well as supporting local businesses, season-appropriate activities help us to live in the present, especially when that involves what we eat and drink. Food and drink is a mood-setter and that can be used for considerable good.

Why not visit one of the many local gardens to enjoy a little inspiration for the autumn plants to put into your own flower beds and outdoor spaces? Chances are, if local gardens are able to grow a particular variety, it’s possible to replicate similar conditions in your own gardens.

However you decide to enjoy the next few weeks, I hope that you have the opportunity to create some lovely memories and enjoy some rewarding activities. Until next month!

Written by Mica Bale

Price includes

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Bespoke Kitchens & Furniture

the Uk's top

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.

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.

T: 01264 570097

W: happykitchens.uk

One of

reviewed kitchen companies on Houzz

Kitchen makeovers

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

We also do kitchen makeovers

We manufacture our doors to order to bespoke sizes, so it doesn't matter who made your kitchen we have the sizes to fit.

Whether you want to just change your doors, or change everything you can see on the face, we can utilise your existing units, and change all the trims and panels, just like in the photos above, yes that really was a makeover, with a couple of small changes.

Call us today for a free of charge home visit.

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

To Let, Fully Managed

A superb family home which is beautifully presented throughout and situated on the edge of the New Forest National Park with the benefit of a detached fully furnished two bedroom annexe. This attractive property is located in an idyllic rural setting and has extensive grounds to include a landscaped garden, vegetable plot and paddock.

The accommodation is stylish with light and spacious rooms. On the ground floor is the substantial kitchen/dining/ family room which has an Aga and doors to the garden, an elegant drawing room with impressive brick-built fireplace with log burning stove and a utility and cloakroom.

On the first floor is the principal bedroom with dressing room and ensuite shower room, four further bedrooms and a family

Art Show for Ukraine

A very interesting and successful Art Show and Sale took place in Stockbridge Town Hall on 24th and 25th July, organised by Hugh Dumas who had decided to exhibit several of his paintings, along with those of a few talented professional artists, with the aim of raising money for Ukrainian refugees in the local area. Hampshire has been at the forefront of looking after many of these displaced families who, having been with their hosts for a year or more, now wish to move on and find their own accommodation and of course this costs money.

The other artists who generously took part and showed paintings and cards were Alix Baker, Julia Cassels, Caroline HerveyBathurst, Christina Meade, Sally Milligan, Lisa Steinke and Belinda Martin, all of whom donated a percentage of their sales to the cause. Added to these takings were many very generous donations from visitors to the exhibition. Several friends kindly helped with the organisation and setting up of the show and the Town Hall was the ideal venue for such an event. The amazing sum of just over £6000 was raised and this will be donated to some of the local Ukrainian support groups.

bathroom. The Annexe is ideal for guests, or to accommodate dual occupancy and is fully self-contained with its own private garden. There is also a mature vegetable garden with fruit trees, a chicken run, and stables (ideal for storage).

There is private parking and a two-bay garage. The property is in a pretty village located close to the popular town of Fordingbridge in the New Forest National Park. The village is perfectly situated for access to a selection of good private schools such as Forres Sandle Manor, Salisbury Cathedral School, Chafyn Grove, Leehurst Swan School, Godolphin School, Dumpton, Embley Park, Canford, Sandroyd and Ballard (all within 15 miles). Good local state schools include Western Downland Primary, Bishops Wordsworth and South Wilts grammar schools. The nearby towns of Salisbury and Brockenhurst have direct train links into London Waterloo. Both the M3 and the M27 are within easy reach and the A35 provides direct access to Bournemouth and Ringwood.

For full details or to arrange a viewing please call Jess on 01264 312832 www.countryhousecompany.co.uk

STOCKBRIDGE MUSIC

Friday 22nd September, 7.30pm

St Peter’s Church, Stockbridge SO20 6HE Spiritato

Period Instrument Ensemble

· Exciting Baroque

· Strings - Harpsichord - Brass - Voice

· Featuring Little Known Composers

Tickets £20 (U18s £5)

From stockbridgemusic.uk or on the door Alternatively, tickets can be purchased from Romsey Visitor Information Centre

13 Church St,Romsey SO51 8BT

Patron: Professor David Owen Norris MA (Oxon) FSA FRAM FRCO

Winchester Heritage Open Days 8th-17th September 2023

Fun, fabulous and FREE!

It’s almost here! The Winchester Heritage Open Days festival will be taking place from 8-17 September 2023. This year’s theme is ‘Creativity Unwrapped’, celebrating the creativity, history and culture of Winchester and the surrounding areas of Hampshire. As well as the usual favourites there will be some exciting new ones too. Some events require booking through our online box office but others you can just turn up to. All events are completely FREE!

Here are some of this year’s festival highlights…

Creativity Unwrapped

• The Story Desk at P&G Wells, Fri 8th - Sun 17th.

• Talk on the stained-glass commission of Florence Nightingale in Romsey Abbey, Fri 15th. Book in advance.

• Exhibition of Paintings by Local Artists, Fri 8th - Sun 17th.

• “Ruins” Exhibition by Nicholas Gibbs with literary text and poetry at Holy Trinity Church, Privett, Sat 16th.

• The Art of Bollards Tour, Sun 17th. Book in advance.

• Talk on Charlotte Mary Yonge as a Creative Writer, Sun 17th. Book in advance.

• Treasure Trail: A Celebration of Winchester by its Young Artists, Fri 8th - Sun 17th.

• Creatively Unwrapped - Wartime Experiences Unveiled from the Archives, Sat 16th.

• The Great Hall - Creativity Unwrapped Tour, Sat 9th & Sat 16th. Book in advance.

Talks & Tours

• Winchester College Guided Tours, Thurs 14th - Sat 16th. Book in advance.

• Old Southampton Cemetery: A Titanic tour!, Sat 16th. Book in advance.

• Silver at Winchester College: Five Centuries of Collecting, Thurs 14th. Book in advance.

• Going cuckoo: a history of bird migration and the curative explanations that science wants to forget, Weds 13th. Book in advance.

• Guided Tour of War Cloister & War Memorials, Fri 15th. Book in advance.

• Remembering Mary I: Creating a Queen’s Legacy, Sat 16th. Book in advance.

• Royal Logistics Corps Museum Tours, Tues 12th - Thurs 14th. Book in advance.

• Sir Orfeo: A New Translation - poetry reading with Clare Pollard, Sat 16th. Book in advance.

• Central Winchester Regeneration - Archaeological Investigation, Fri 8th - Fri 15th.

• St John the Evangelist Church, Northington, Weds 13th - Thurs 14th. Book in advance.

Open Days

• Uppark House and Gardens, Fri 8th - Sun 17th.

• Buckler’s Hard Museum, Fri 8th - Sun 17th.

• The Brickworks Museum, Weds 13th - Thurs 14th.

• Abbey House - The Official Residence of the Mayor of Winchester, Fri 15th.

• The Hospital of St Cross, Weds 13th.

• The Great Hall Open Day, Sat 16th.

• Chesil Theatre, Sat 9th.

Family Friendly Events

• Lepe Country Park, Fri 8th - Sun 17th.

• Bullington Church Fete, Sun 10th.

• St Denys Church Scavenger Hunt, Fri 8th - Sun 17th.

• Hampshire Scout Heritage Centre, Sat 9th - Weds 13th. Book in advance.

• Queens in Winchester: A Creative Workshop for Children, Sat 16th. Book in advance.

• Hampshire Regency Dancers, Sat 16th.

• Family Backstage Tour of Theatre Royal Winchester, Sat 9th. Book in advance.

• The Princess and the Oil Magnate’s Daughter, Sat 16th - Sun 17th.

• St Bartholemew’s Church / Hyde, Sculpt a Selfie!, Sat 16th.

• Winchester City Mill, Sat 16th - Sun 17th.

For information on dates, times and bookings visit our website www.winchesterheritageopendays.org or scan the QR code.

Winchester Heritage Open Days is organised by Hampshire History Trust. It is grateful to its lead sponsor Winchester College and also to Hampshire County Council, Winchester City Council and Winchester BID for their support.

Fundraising Event for Hampshire History Trust

On Thurs 7th September, join Alice Loxton for a talk about her new book: ‘UPROAR!: Satire, Scandal and Printmakers in Georgian London’ at Winchester College. Tickets are £15 & £30, now available via the website.

Delve into Hampshire History

Join

September / October Events

Stockbridge Antiques Fair

Saturday 2nd September

From 9am to 4.30pm

Stockbridge Town Hall, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE

The Fair is held in Stockbridge Town Hall in the centre of the High Street, usually on the first Saturday of the month (please note our October date - a one off change). 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: 9.00am - 4.30pm. Contacts: Carol01264 335769 / 07870 432805

Steve - 01722 712267 / 07915

663251

Stockbridge Community Cinema

Friday 8th September

From 7.30pm

Stockbridge Town Hall, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE

Close (12)

- 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. Information common to both films: 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 about all of our autumn season films.

The Romsey Show

Saturday 9th September

From 8am to 6pm

Broadlands Park, Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 9ZE

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! 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, with free parking - don't miss out! For discounted advance tickets from August and more information on what's on, visit the Romsey Show website.

Stockbridge Community Cinema

Wednesday 13th September

From 5.30 & 7.30pm

Stockbridge Town Hall, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE

Allelujah (12) - 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.

Romsey OctoberFest

Friday 15th September

From 6pm

Romsey Rugby Club, Ganger Farm Way, Romsey, SO51 0EE.

Romsey's BIGGEST Oktoberfest comes to Ganger Farm for the first time. Join Romsey Rugby Club to celebrate it's annual Oktoberfest party - this year in our new clubhouse! This promises to be our biggest and best Oktoberfest yet. Key info: Doors 6:00pm - Bar closes 11:00pm. Don't forget to bring your own stein! Fancy dress is optional but thoroughly encouraged. Tickets are advancepurchase only and they will sell out. Full-service cashless bar. Sausages in buns (including vegetarian option) available for purchase.

Wacappella – An evening with Winchester A Cappella

They will perform popular numbers and songs from films and musicals. The centrepiece of

Wacappella is “The Lorax”, a piece of music that once formed part of Seussical The Musical, but was cut from the final production. The ladies of Winchester A Cappella are delighted to revive this once forgotten musical gem.

Saturday 21st October

From 7.30pm

Theatre Royal Winchester, 21-23 Jewry Street, SO23 8SB

There will also be performances from local music and dance groups, providing a feast of varied entertainment from truly talented performers within the Winchester area. Tickets £15 from www. theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk evening with Winchester A Cappella and Friends.

Southern Counties Heavy Horse Association

Sunday 22nd October

From 10am

Charford Manor Farm, Breamore, Hampshire SP6 2DW

Horse Ploughing Match - Show and Country Fair. Located (on the A338 between Fordingbridge and Downton). By kind permission of Belinda & Lisa Harding and Will Dixon. Adults £10, Senior Citizens £6. SCHHA Members Free, Children under 16 Free, Free Car Park, Heavy Horses, Ploughing, Show Classes, In-Hand & Ridden, Fun Dog Show, Trade Stands, Refreshments, Childrens Amusements. Ring Displays, Ferret Racing - Secretary & Trade Enquiries : Anne Dawson 07773 155817

Caring for Cut Flowers: Our guide to enjoying flowers in your home

our commitment to not using chemicals on the flowers while growing in the field.

sitting flat on the bottom of the vase which can create a seal.

5. Cut the twine holding the bouquet together and gently lower the flowers into your vase. Check there are no leaves below the water line as these will quickly start to decompose adding to the bacteria in the vase.

Nestled in the depths of the Test Valley lies Featherstone’s English Flower Co. A mixed flower farm and florist growing huge quantities of beautiful cut flowers used for weddings, funerals, events, workshops and bouquets. The farm was founded by us, Katie and Jess. We are both passionate about British flowers due to their romance, elegance and that they can be grown in a way which promotes nature and protects the environment.

Here, we share our guide for enjoying your flowers in your home for as long as possible: We do not use or include flower food or floral preservatives with our flowers. This is a conclusion we have reached after lots of trials and research into maximising vase life as well as

1. Clean your vase: A clean vase is one of the most important steps to ensuring maximum vase life. A dirty vase will contain bacteria which clog up stems and prevent them taking up water which will significantly reduce the flowers' vase life.

2. Fill your vase to about 2/3rds full with cool, clean water.

3. Carefully remove the wrapping from the bouquet. All our wrapping can be re-used, recycled or composted at home.

4. Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle with a sharp, clean pair of scissors or secateurs. This increases the surface area available for the flower to take up water and prevents the stem

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

6. Place your flowers in a cool room, out of direct sunlight and away from draughts. It is a good idea to keep your flowers away from the fruit bowl as ripening fruit give off the gas ethylene which will also make your flowers go over more quickly.

7. Change the water in the vase regularly and recut the stems: For the longest vase life change the water and clean the vase at least every other day to prevent the bacteria building up. Recut the stems at the same time, again at the 45 degree angle to refresh the flower's drinking capacity.

8. Remove any flowers as they start to fade or go over.

Gift bouquets can be ordered online and delivered within a 20 mile radius of Stockbridge and are always crafted from seasonal flowers from the field or other British growers in the South West.

Events

Workshops

Weddings

Funerals

Pick Your Own

Flower Club

Subscriptions • Buckets of Blooms

www.featherstoneflowers.co.uk

@featherstoneflowers 01264 302980

Andover presents 7 professional concerts every season

Do you enjoy a variety of classical music?

Seven professional classical music concerts are performed every season at The Lights Theatre in Andover. From September to April the following year, the aim is to offer a wide range of music performed by professional artists.

Presented by Andover Music Club, we are currently offering our 77th season in Andover. The professional concerts are performed on the fourth Thursday of each month. See the website for details. www.andovermusicclub.co.uk

Opening the season this September 28th will be the Kassia Trio consisting of two Saxophones and a piano. The three talented young ladies will be treating the audience to some wonderful music including Gershwin – Walking the Dog, and the beautiful Rumanische Melodie by Max Bruch.

There are season tickets available for all seven concerts, which is the equivalent of little more than £10.00 per concert. Individual concerts tickets at £15 per adult, are available from the Lights theatre www.thelights.org.uk , the Club secretary, or on the door on the night. Other prices for children. Season tickets are available through the website.

Such well-known professional musicians and ensembles as The London Mozart Players, The Academy of St Martin-in-theFields and Bournemouth Sinfonietta have asked to play for us. This is testimony to the high standard that the enthusiastic audience expect.

We are thrilled too, to announce that David Owen Norris, has accepted the invitation of Andover Music Club to become their Patron. He is very keen to support music in Andover.

We hope that you will be able to join us for some outstanding professional music in the heart of Andover, and we look forward to seeing you at any of the concerts. See the website for all the concerts for the next season. www.andovermusicclub.co.uk

Performed at The Lights, Andover Andover Music Club

Patron: David Owen Norris

77th Season of Classical Concerts

September 2023 to April 2024

High Street, Stockbridge SO20 6EX www.thebookmarkstockbridge.co.uk T: 01264 811529

is delighted to present

AN EVENING WITH SIR MICHAEL

is delighted to present

AN EVENING WITH SIR

MORPURGO

AN EVENING WITH SIR MICHAEL MORPURGO

Former Children’s Laureate and best-selling writer of WAR HORSE

Former Children’s Laureate and best-selling writer of WAR HORSE

MICHAEL MORPURGO

Michael Morpurgo is one of Britain’s best loved writers for readers of all ages. He has written over 130 books including The Butterfly Lion, Kensuke’ s Kingdom, Why the Whales Came, Private Peaceful, Shadow, and War Horse, many of which have been adapted for stage, film and TV.

Michael Morpurgo is one of Britain's best loved writers for readers of all ages. He has written over 150 books including The Butterfly Lion, Kensuke's Kingdom, Private Peaceful and War Horse. In his latest book, Tales from Shakespeare, he retells ten of his favourite plays in new and delightfully accessible versions.

Michael Morpurgo is one of Britain’s best loved writers for readers of all ages. He has written over 130 books including The Butterfly Lion, Kensuke’ s Kingdom, Why the Whales Came, Private Peaceful, Shadow, and War Horse, many of which have been adapted for stage, film and TV.

The author will talk about his life and work and sign copies of his books, many of which will be available at the event.

The author will talk about his life and work and sign copies of his books, many of which will be available at the event.

THE TOWN HALL High Street, Stockbridge Sunday 28th November at 6:30pm

The author will talk about his life and work and sign copies of his books, many of which will be available at the event.

THE TOWN HALL High Street, Stockbridge Sunday 28th November at 6:30pm

Tickets are £12 for Adults and £6 for Children (no booking fee). They can be purchased at The Bookmark or at Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-with-sir-michael-morpurgo-tickets190189430707

At Stockbridge Town Hall, SO20 6HE on Sunday 15th October from 6.30pm

Ticket prices are £12 for adults and £6 for children (no booking fee)

Tickets can be purchased at The Bookmark or at Eventbrite https://sir-michael-morpurgo-at-the-bookmark.eventbrite.co.uk

Tickets are £12 for Adults and £6 for Children (no booking fee). They can be purchased at The Bookmark or at Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-with-sir-michael-morpurgo-tickets190189430707

Life lessons from a community of happy, healthy centenarians

Local to you in Stockbridge

It's not often you get to witness pleasure and celebration in ageing, certainly not in the average Western community.

Visiting Sardinia (a designated ‘Blue Zone’) for my holiday this year opened my eyes to the joy, positivity and purpose that ageing can bring.

Aging for a Sardinian does not bring to mind deteriorating health, loneliness, depression or dread as it may do in our culture and society, rather something to embrace and look forward to.

I have learned some valuable lessons from my travels and here I will share with you how and why a few select villages in the Barbagia region of Sardinia have been selected to join four other special locations around the world, called Blue Zones. These are areas of the world which have not only the longest-lived communities, but also the most healthy and content.

Sardinia’s Blue Zone Lessons:

• Eat a lean, plant-based diet

The traditional Sardinian diet is not classically ‘Mediterranean’, they don’t eat much fish, and they have very little dairy. Their typical bread is in a thin, dry cracker form, made from semolina, and they eat it regularly with lots of sheep or goat's cheese, especially pecorino. Whole grains, mixed beans and garden vegetables often feature in their soups and casseroles. Meat is reserved for Sundays or special occasions.

• Put family first

Sardinian’s have strong family values. They live close to together and enjoy the benefits of inter-generational living, such as caring for each other and being cared for. This helps reduce stress, depression, loneliness and suicide.

• Drink goat's milk

Goat milk products have anti-inflammatory properties which may help reduce cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer’s.

• Celebrate elders

Around the village I explored, the pin-ups on walls round town were the elders of the community that had reached 100! Grandparents provide love, care, wisdom and inspire the children to push themselves and succeed in life.

• Take a walk amongst hills and gradients

Walking 5 miles a day in the mountains as the Sardinian shepherds

do, provides all the cardiovascular and strength training benefits you might expect, and has a beneficial effect on bone density and muscle mass.

• Drink a glass of red wine a day in good company

Look for a flavonoid rich red wine, such as Cannonau, gather with friends and enjoy a few glasses connecting with each other and laughing away your worries and stress. Men in Sardinia are famous for their sardonic sense of humour, and laughing with and at each other may explain the lower levels of stress amongst men and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.

I know my top take-home will be to embrace ageing more and to remind myself what a privilege it is to age, sadly denied to so many.

I will endeavour to age well, and commit to applying these lessons to my life in order to not only live longer, but to live a healthy life, full of purpose and passion.

Which Sardinian lesson can you bring to enrich your life and improve not only your life-span but also your health-span?

On a separate note, the Womo Women’s Health course returns in October, be sure to book your place early, places are limited to 12 and they are already filling! To find out more, take a look at my ad in the Forum and visit www.the-sop.com/womo for bookings.

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

WITH EMMA WIGHTMAN WOMEN’S HEALTH OSTEOPATH

Ghana volunteering for Embley students

building and renovating the partner school. They also volunteered at two other schools in the area: Dedzizi Community School and Dornorgbor School.

significance of clean water for healthy living.

Over 50 Embley students recently travelled to Ghana to volunteer at Embley’s partnership school, Little Roses - a primary and secondary school of about 200 children in Anloga, a rural fishing village between the Atlantic coast and Keta Lagoon. As part of the 10-day trip, students helped with teaching, sports coaching, and

Academic Success for Godolphin A-level students

2023

Godolphin students have produced a fantastic set of A-level results. The hard work, dedication, and perseverance of our Upper Sixth has truly paid off, and we couldn't be happier. Achieving such an impressive set of results is a testament to their commitment to learning and the unwavering support of the Godolphin community.

We are proud that our students will go on to read subjects across the broad academic spectrum, demonstrating specialism and cross curricular expertise in equal measure. Alongside Oxbridge, Medicine, Russell Group and top 10 institutions, students will also

Embley has been working with Little Roses since 2019 and whilst this was the school’s second visit to Ghana, this is the first group of students to have volunteered at the partnership school. Although Little Roses is privately run, it is severely underfunded. In some classrooms the floors are sand, and walls are waist height and open to the elements - a priority for Little Roses this year was to concrete the floors of three classrooms. There is also a significant lack of basic equipment such as textbooks. All lessons use a blackboard and chalk, even for the workings of a computer in Computer Science.

While there, it was an honour for Embley to officially open the new water tank which has been installed at Little Roses as a result of Embley fundraising; really highlighting the

continue their study at Art Schools, and take up prestigious apprenticeships in engineering and cyber security in the aerospace, defence and communication industries.

True to their values, this cohort will offer so much to their chosen destinations, through their sporting and cultural prowess, their sense of community and their academic passions. We wish our Godolphin Sixth all the best for the future and look forward to welcoming them back to inspire and nurture future generations.

Jenny Price, Head

Students also learnt about Ghanaian culture, African drumming and ceremonies as well as being challenged to play a game of football by the local girls’ U18 team who are vying for a place in the Ghanaian Premiership. Embley students also learnt about the natural geography of Ghana visiting the coast, Wli Waterfall and hiking through the rainforest.

As well as providing a range of help during the trip, Embley students took donations of sports equipment, clothes and stationary (from the wider Embley community) in their suitcases.

A group of Embley students will return to Little Roses in 2024 and will continue fundraising for future development projects.

T: 01794 512206

Embley.org.uk admissions@embley.org.uk

Volunteer Befriending Service

We are looking for Volunteers in your Community - Could you be a ‘Befriender’?

What will I be doing?

For further information, please contact Godolphin Marketing Department sowtons@godolphin.org

As a Volunteer Befriender your role will be to provide social companionship to patients who have a chronic or life limiting illness and who are isolated or lonely. Visiting patients in their own homes, you will help them to feel more supported and help to improve their emotional well-being and confidence.

How much time do I need to commit?

Just 2 hours a week, or less, can make a real difference to a patient living in your local community.

What support will I be given?

All relevant training will be given, as well as regular and on-going support and supervision.

Interested?

For further information contact Caroline Nash, Befriending Manager on: 01264 835293

Email: caroline.nash@hhft.nhs.uk

Interested volunteers will be invited to an informal interview and the role is subject to references, simple health checks and DBS clearance.

St Swithun’s students headed to universities after impressive A Level Results

St Swithun's School is delighted to announce another year of strong A-Level results, showcasing the academic accomplishments of its students. With a dedication to nurturing bright minds and fostering a supportive learning environment, the school is proud to celebrate the achievements of its A-Level students in the 2023 examinations.

86% of A levels were graded A* to B against a backdrop of a decline in top grades nationally to pre-pandemic levels. Half of U6 girls achieved AAA or higher, 61% AAB or above and 73% ABB or better.

The Class of 2023 has therefore been accepted into prestigious universities, with students securing placements at world class institutions such as Bristol, Cambridge, Durham, Exeter, Imperial, LSE, Manchester, Oxford, St Andrews, UCL, Warwick and York while 10% of students gained places at Oxbridge. The St Swithun's School community eagerly awaits the future success of our graduates and the positive impact they will undoubtedly make in their chosen fields.

100% of A level results were graded A* to B in the twelve individual subjects of art and design, Classical civilisation, English literature, further mathematics, German, Greek, history of art, Latin, music, product design, psychology and Spanish. In addition, all the students who undertook the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) gained A* to B grades, with 86% at A* and A. The EPQ is equivalent to half an A level and is held in high esteem by universities for the skills of self-directed, independent study that it cultivates.

Headmistress Jane Gandee said, "The success of our A-level students is testament to their hard work and intellectual curiosity, in addition to the support provided by our dedicated staff. At St Swithun's School, we strive to instil a passion for lifelong learning, and these results exemplify our students' genuine interest in their studies.”

Head of Sixth Form, Nick Fyfe, also shared his delight stating, "We are immensely proud of our students' achievements and their personal growth during their time in our Sixth Form. Our tailored support and guidance have allowed them to flourish both academically and as well-rounded individuals."

Maite, a high-achieving student at St Swithun's School, has excelled in this year's A-Level examinations. Obtaining five A*, she has consistently demonstrated a thirst for knowledge and a dedication to their studies. With these exceptional results, she is ready to embark on a promising future studying Medicine at Cambridge.

Another outstanding performer, Emily has achieved an impressive set of A-Level results, securing A* A* A. Her academic journey at St Swithun's School has been characterised by commitment to academic and sporting excellence exemplified by her role as Head of Sport. With these exceptional results, she is ready to embark on a promising future pursuing Geography at Durham University.

We are also thrilled to announce that our Head Girl, Jamie S, has achieved exceptional A-Level results. Throughout her tenure as Head Girl, Jamie has demonstrated exemplary leadership and dedication, leaving an indelible impact on the school community. As she begins her journey to Oxford University to study History and Economics, we are confident that she will continue to shine brightly, making a positive difference in all she undertakes.

Swithun’s School Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1HA T: 01962 835700 www.stswithuns.com

Elite

King of the River

Of the many birds that frequent our chalk streams, the brightly-plumed kingfisher is perhaps the most celebrated. Ours are actually Eurasian kingfishers – one of over 100 such species worldwide, including Australia’s laughing kookaburra. Our local kingfishers make a high-pitched call when in flight, so keep your eyes peeled if you hear several short whistles.

Unlike many of our feathered friends, kingfishers make their nests by burrowing into riverbanks. The tunnels are barely wider than the birds themselves, but can be 90 centimetres long. After teaming up in February, breeding pairs will raise up to three clutches of eggs through the spring and summer. Of the two, you can spot the female by the reddish patch on her beak.

Though stocky, kingfishers are surprisingly small, weighing a mere 40 grams on average. Despite this, they earn their name with their impressive fishing skills. While they mostly eat sticklebacks and minnows, they will snack on insects, freshwater

shrimp and tadpoles. You may see them perched on low-hanging branches, waiting for their next meal to swim by.

Once their prey has been spotted, they will assess its depth before taking the plunge. A third eyelid draws shut when they enter the water, so the catch itself is done almost blindly. But if their aim is true, they return to their perch and deliver the final blow. Since they must eat their body weight in food each day, they will soon be back in the water.

A key factor in this formidable fishing ability is the shape of the birds’ beaks, the cross-section of which resembles a diamond with curved edges. When they dive, water flows along their beaks instead of being pushed away, allowing for a seamless entry. In fact, this shape is so effective that it inspired the design of the Japanese bullet train!

Sadly, our local kingfishers have to contend with a number of pressures. Flooding can threaten their nests and prevent them from fishing. Disturbance can scare them

away from their nests, stopping them from feeding their young. Chemical and nutrient pollution can affect insect, amphibian, and fish numbers, reducing their food supply.

One of the best ways to support these beautiful birds is by keeping their homes in a healthy condition. To learn more about our chalk streams and their wonderful wildlife, visit www.hiwwt.org.uk/winterbournes

The Watercress and Winterbournes Landscape Partnership Scheme is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Free Online Talk

‘The Devastation and Restoration of England’s Chalk Streams’ 21st September, 7-8pm

Our chalk streams are some of nature’s greatest gems, but just how natural are they? Join us to explore how these precious habitats have been altered throughout history, and how restoration is returning them to health today.

Book at www.hiwwt.org.uk/events

Photograph © Malcolm Brown

WARNER

Rachel Hudson

Hampshire illustrator, Rachel

Hudson, creates artwork that reconnects people with the natural world, through information, greetings cards, editorial, publishing and site-specific projects. Lively, yet authentic, her artwork evokes the spirit of a place and captures a fleeting encounter with nature.

From Suffolk to The Shetlands

This year, it is Rachel’s greetings cards that are making an impact, following her debut at Progressive Greetings Live at the Business Design Centre in London, (the world’s only greetings card trade fair). Today, you can discover her illustrations in independent bookshops and gallery gift shops from Suffolk to The Shetlands, Hampshire to the Hebrides. Meanwhile, new Winter Birds Christmas Cards are available from the RSPB and eight of her best-selling illustrations have been licensed by the Welsh publisher, Silver Birch Cards. Further afield, from February 2024, a collection of 10 designs entitled, Vie Sauvage, will be sold in bookstores throughout France, published by Zazous Editions.

Valuing Nature

Inspired by daily walks in Hampshire and holidays along the British coast, Rachel’s designs showcase the seasons and celebrate the often overlooked. Her collections include Coastal & Seaward, Wayside & Woodland, Winterscapes and Oddities & Rarities. Rooted in conservation knowledge and a life-long love of nature, Rachel’s art cards for nature lovers aim to help people to feel good and value nature. On the reverse of each card, you can find information about the species featured on the front of each card.

Environmental stewardship lies at the heart of Rachel’s business which is powered by green energy and uses materials that are responsibly sourced. All cards are blank inside, printed in the UK using FSC certified board, matched with eco- kraft envelope, supplied ‘naked’, without plastic or even biodegradable packets (which can also take years to decompose).

Why greetings cards?

Greetings cards are an affordable and environmentally-friendly way to make an emotional connection with a friend or family member. It is a way to show someone that you are thinking about them and can be thought-provoking too, perhaps reminding the recipient of a time and place that they have enjoyed. As a Publisher member of the Greetings Card Association, from 18-24 September, Rachel will be taking part in ‘Thinking of You Week’. All cards purchased and sent by Royal Mail will carry a special postmark with the message: Send a Card Deliver a Smile. A world-wide initiative, the aim is to ‘create a wave of love, caring and happiness’.

If you’d like to purchase Rachel’s cards, they are available to buy at www.rachelhudsonillustration.com You can find her in person at The Floral Fringe Fair in Loxwood Meadows, West Sussex from 2-3 September. For a 10% discount on Rachel’s Winter Birds Christmas Card Packs until 5 September, visit the RSPB’s online shop.

2 Medium Individial Panelled Sectional Doors

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

Fried Potatoes with Bacon, Mushrooms & Onions

SERVES 4 - 6 PEOPLE

INGREDIENTS

• 750-800g baby potatoes (any waxy kind)

• Sea salt

• 200g bacon lardons

• Olive oil or avocado oil

• 1 large onion thinly sliced

• 300g of chestnut mushrooms or other mushrooms of choice - sliced

• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary (optional)

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Handful of parsley or dill - chopped

METHOD

Put the potatoes in a pot, cover with water and salt well. Bring to a boil and boil until just cooked, 10-15 minutes. Drain the potatoes, let cool, and slice thinly.

Meanwhile, heat a large cast iron pan (or another non-stick pan) over medium heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom. Add the onion, bacon and a pinch of salt, and saute for 7 minutes, until the onion is translucent. Add the mushrooms and rosemary, if using, stir once to coat in the oil, then let the mushrooms brown, undisturbed, for about 10-15 minutes. Once the mushrooms are browned and all the liquid they release evaporates, season them with more salt and black pepper, mix to coat. Remove the mushrooms and onions from the pan and set aside for now.

Wipe the pan if needed. Add more oil to generously coat the bottom of the pan and turn the heat up to medium-high. Add about a third of the potatoes to the pan and season them with salt. The potatoes should cover the pan in one layer and shouldn't be too crowded. Fry the potatoes for about 5 minutes, until the undersides are golden and crispy, then flip and fry the other side for another 5 minutes, or until golden.

Transfer the fried potatoes to a plate and continue frying the rest of the potatoes in batches. Add more oil between batches if necessary.

Once all the potatoes are done, return them to the pan along with the mushrooms and onions, mix carefully until warmed back through. Serve the potatoes and mushrooms right away, sprinkled with parsley or dill.

We’re staying on your High Street

With the face of high street banking remarkably changed since the pandemic, and many large banks closing the doors of small village and town branches, Newbury Building Society’s Dean Scott discusses why a ‘bricks and clicks’ approach is so critical to the Society’s business.

What’s the one piece of positive feedback we hear more than any other when talking to our customers? Without a doubt, it’s how much they appreciate the human touch. In today’s digital world, it’s vital to our members that they can speak to a living, breathing human being who is ready and waiting to help – not a robot, chatbot (although we do have those now!), or a round-robin calling system that leaves you listening to hold music for hours.

The pandemic reinforced the importance of digital banking infrastructure, but despite this, we are still extremely passionate about the difference people make to our business – both customer and colleague. As a multitude of other lenders close the doors of small local branches, the high street is exactly where we want to be.

“I opened a Senior Saver account online. It was so simple to do with very clear and easy to follow instructions. I love it that they also make it easy for me to visit one of their local branches with a passbook as well if I want to, despite it being an online account. So many banks/building societies are leaving the high street, it’s comforting to know that Newbury Building Society aren’t following that trend and that their customers can still go in and chat face to face”

Yvonne, Smart Money People review, January 2023

Being present for our customers, in the places they live and work, is part of our ethos as a trusted mutual organisation. Unlike banks, we have a commitment to reinvest our profits. We don’t have shareholders, so we get to put time and money back into the communities we operate in.

This is something that has become even more critical to us recently and is why we launched our Cost of Living Support project last year. To ensure we’re using our space to the best of our ability and that our branches remain fit for purpose, we’ve been working hard on a series of refurbishment projects over the last few years. We started with Abingdon in 2021, and we finished work on Newbury branch in December last year.

Member feedback has been great, and we look forward to continuing to modernise our branch network this year, with plans to refurbish Winchester branch and subject to costings, our branch in Thatcham, too.

Whilst we will certainly continue to improve our online platforms and digital experience, our strategy will remain one of ‘bricks and clicks’, a blend of physical High Street branches and online digital services, where good old fashioned service with a smile is at the root of our organisation.

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. 9663

Abingdon branch

Newbury branch