Lamb Stew with Apple & Cinnamon NEWS & EVENTS FOR FEBRUARY
TEST VALLEY ARTS FOUNDATION
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Chairman's Report 2024/2025
STYLE ˙ INTERIORS ˙ HEALTH & BEAUTY ˙ INTERVIEWS ˙ FOOD & DRINK ˙ ENTERTAINMENT ˙ EVENTS
GUIDE PRICE: £995,000
A very attractive detached house with a lovely aspect over adjoining countryside & fronting The Wallop Brook.
Kitchen with Aga, breakfast room, drawing room, sitting room, study, main bedroom with ensuite, three further bedrooms, two bathrooms. Detached garage, attractive gardens - 0.25 acre. Additional land may be available.
GUIDE PRICE: £357,000
An attractive light and bright end of terrace period property a short walk from the Town Centre.
Sitting room, dining room, kitchen and utility with access to garden. Three double bedrooms, family bathroom.
South Westerly facing garden with terrace.
GUIDE PRICE: £950,000
A most appealing Grade II Listed character property. Situated within walking distance of Village shop/Post Office.
A period semi-detached house with an abundance of features. Three reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, workshop, five bedrooms, two bathrooms. Attractive & partly walled gardens. Open fronted barn/carport.
GUIDE PRICE: £550,000
A fantastic three bedroom property with garden and garage in the heart of a popular Test Valley village.
Good-sized kitchen/dining room with doors to south-west facing garden, sitting room with log burner, underfloor heating, air source heat pump, EV charger. Immaculate, thoughtfully designed garden.
Come and be entertained, this month's theme is 'Beside the Sea'. You don’t have to be a member of SADS to come along, (but we’d love it if you’d join) We’re always looking for new blood to act, direct and be part of the backstage team. No experience necessary! Stockbridgeamdrams@gmail.com or find us on Facebook.
Chilbolton Village Hall Film - The Critic (15)
Friday 7 February
Doors 6.30pm, Starts 7.30pm
Chilbolton Village Hall, Chilbolton, SO20 6AT
Featuring Gemma Arterton, Ian McKellen, Mark Strong, Tom Turner, Ben Barnes, Lesley Manville and Romola Garai. Set in pre-war London, a powerful theatre critic lures a struggling actress into a blackmail scheme that has deadly consequences… Tickets £6.00 in advance from Beryl Lawrence on 01264 860618 Email: dlaw@davidlawrence associates.co.uk Or £7.00 on the door (if available). Tea/Coffee and biscuits available - Wine, Beer and Choc Ices on sale.
The 2025 All Saints’ Winter Lecture
Thursday 13 February
Doors Open 7pm, Lecture 8pm
King Eward VII Memorial Hall, Village St, Upper Clatford, Andover, SP11 7QL
What Prospects for Peace in the Middle East? Lt Gen (Retired) Sir Thomas Beckett KCB CBE. Tom was born in Bahrain, and his military deployments include
Northern Ireland, Sierra Leone, Iraq (both in 1991 to 2003, commanding a battalion and 2007 to 2009 commanding a brigade) and in Afghanistan. His final UK Government appointment was as the Defence Senior Advisor to the Middle East and North Africa and the Prime Minister’s Security Envoy to Iraq including the Kurdistan Region. Since 2018, Tom has been Executive Director of the International Institute for Strategic Studies in Bahrain. In June 2024, he was appointed Senior Adviser at the IISS Head Office in London and Corresponding Director of the IISS–Americas office. Tickets are £15.00 each. Use this QR code to book online.
Anna and Lewis' unconventional romance with his best friend's mother, the film interweaves past, present and fantasy, bursting from the confines of Freud's study on a dynamic journey. Information common to both films. Tickets £6.00 (incl £0.50p booking fee) on sale from 1 February via www. stockbridgecinema.org.uk or by telephone from TicketSource 0333 666 3366 (no additional charge). Please visit our website for full details of all films.
Stockbridge Cinema The Critic (15)
Wednesday 19 February
From 5pm and 7.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
Tickets can also be purchased at:
• Clatford Store and Post Office
• Greenfield Farm Shop
• Abbotts Ann Community Shop
• The Crook and Shears Pub Funds raised will be split between The All Saints’ Fabric Fund, Countess of Brecknock Hospice and Upper Clatford Parish Council Chalk Pit Redevelopment Fund.
Stockbridge
Cinema
Freud's Last Session (12A)
Friday 14 February
From 7.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
Set on the eve of WWII and towards the end of his life, Freud's Last Session sees Freud (Anthony Hopkins) invite iconic author C.S. Lewis (Matthew Goode) for a debate over the future of mankind and the existence of God. Exploring Freud's unique relationship with his daughter
Set in 1930's London, The Critic is a thrilling tale of ambition, blackmail, and desire with a dazzling anti-hero at its heart. When the most feared and vicious theatre critic in town Jimmy Erskine (Ian Mckellen), finds himself suddenly in the crosshairs of the Daily Chronicle's new owner, he strikes a Faustian pact with struggling actress Nina Land (Gemma Arterton) who is desperate to win his favour. For futher details see the Friday 14th film on this page.
Wherwell History Group Talk
Friday 21 February
From 8pm
Zoom Presentation - Email to book and obtain details
Illustrated Talk "The Amazing Mr Dickens!" by David Allen.
A 'rags to riches' life story with dramatic readings from popular works such as Oliver Twist.
A Zoom Presentation to Wherwell History Group. Tickets £5 via email:wherwellhistory@gmail.com
The
Seven Wonders of the Ancient World Talk
A talk by Major General Stephen Carr-Smith. SInce retirement from the British Army, Major General Stephen Carr-Smith has
Friday 28 February
Doors 7.30pm, Talk starts 8pm Clatford Village Hall, SP11 7RE
been going around the world as a guest speaker on a variety of cruise ships and gives talks to local organisations. Two statues, a temple, a garden, two tombs and a lighthouse. This rather odd selection of monuments has become famous as the list of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. But how did they get on the famous list? Who chose them? How were they built? And what happened to them over the years? Come on a special journey and find out. Tickets £10 available online at www.trybooking.com/ uk/EBPR or at Clatfords Village Store.
Romsey and District Railway Modellers Society 45th Annual Exhibition
Sat 1 and Sun 2 March
10.30am to 5pm Saturday 10am to 4.30pm Sunday
Crossfield Hall, Romsey, SO51 8GL
Model railway layouts in a wide range of scales and gauges. Trade support, demonstrations, refreshements. www.rdrms.com
You can feature your event on this page free of charge. Simply send your copy to editor@forumpublications. co.uk for inclusion. Please note items will be included on a strict first come, first served basis and we cannot guarantee publication.
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Bespoke Kitchens & Interiors
Bespoke sizing - Media walls, boot rooms, custom offices, installed by ex-shipwright joiners with exceptional attention to detail
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
• Change as much or as little as you you'd like
• Free no obligation quotation
• Free design service for new projects
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,
One of the top reviewed companies on Houzz, offering free home design visits
light fittings, bar stools, artwork and can even recommend great pots and pans.
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 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.
• Change as much or as little as you you'd like
• Free no obligation quotation
• Free design service for new projects
Happy Kitchen, and two of the parents' friends.
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.
8 year winner of the Best of Houzz award and one of the highest reviewed kitchen companies on Houzz in the UK
St Swithun’s Prep School to welcome Shelly Say as new Head of Early Years
St Swithun’s School in Winchester is delighted to announce the appointment of Shelly Say as the new Head of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) in the Prep School.
Shelly will join the school in the Summer Term, overseeing the Preschool and Reception classes, as well as leading the Early Years staff team. She will also be part of the Prep School’s Senior Leadership Team.
St Swithun’s Prep is a leading independent school on the outskirts of Winchester, welcoming girls and boys aged 3+ into preschool and girls from reception age upwards.
Shelly will join the St Swithun’s family from Prince’s Mead School where she is their current Head of EYFS, as well as a member of the Senior Leadership Team. In her current role she manages the Early Years staff team and teaches a Reception class. Shelly has worked at Prince’s Mead for ten years and was integral in the setting up of their Nursery. Prior to that she worked at Eton End School and Chafyn Grove School in Early Years roles.
Talking about the appointment Liz Norris, Head of St Swithun’s Prep said, “We are thrilled to welcome Shelly to the St Swithun’s community. She brings a wealth of Early Years’ experience to the school, and I know the parents and children will love getting to know her. We are passionate about giving our students the very best start to their educational journey. I have no doubt that Shelly will help ensure our youngest students will have exactly that whilst also making their time here full of adventure and fun.”
Shelly Say added, “I am absolutely delighted to be joining the St Swithun’s family as Head of Early Years. I am passionate about creating nurturing and inspiring environments where children can flourish and develop a lifelong love of learning. I look forward to working closely with the dedicated team, parents, and, most importantly, the wonderful children at St Swithun’s Prep. Together, we’ll ensure their first steps in education are filled with joy, curiosity, and adventure.”
Shelly will succeed Sue Powell, who recently relocated abroad with her family after 3½ years at the school.
Prospective families are invited to meet Shelly and explore the Early Years facilities at St Swithun’s Prep School during the upcoming Early Years Open Afternoon on Friday 14 March at 1:30 pm.
To learn more and book your place, please visit www.stswithuns.com/preschool-and-prepopen-days
Friday 14 March 1.30pm
PREP SCHOOL EARLY YEARS OPEN AFTERNOON
Includes: Opportunity to see early years provision and facilities
Q&A with our incoming EYFS Head Shelly Say and Prep Head Liz Norris
Informal environment to meet our staff
Scan our QR code to register
Five ways to reduce your CGT liability
Cuts to the capital gains tax (CGT) exemption mean that arranging your investments as tax efficiently as possible is more important than ever. However, CGT can be highly complex, so it’s important to seek expert advice to avoid paying it unnecessarily. Here are some ways to reduce CGT:
1. Use your CGT exemption
Your annual CGT exemption enables you to make tax-free gains of up to £3,000 in the 2024/25 tax year This can’t be carried forward into the next tax year, so making full use of it each year could reduce the risk of incurring a significant CGT liability in the future.
2. Transfer assets to your spouse or civil partner
Transfers between spouses and civil partners are exempt from CGT, so assets can be transferred from one partner to the other to use each person’s annual CGT exemption. The transfer must be a genuine, outright gift
3. Invest in an ISA / bed and ISA
Gains (and losses) made on investments held in an ISA are exempt from CGT. In the 2024/25 tax year, you can invest up to £20,000 in an ISA.
The tactic ‘bed and ISA’ involves selling investments to realise a capital gain and then immediately buying back the same investments inside an ISA. This enables all future gains on the investment to be CGT free. There are risks involved, so if you’re unsure, speak to a financial adviser
4. Invest in an Enterprise Investment Scheme
Any gains made on investments in an EIS (Enterprise Investment Scheme) are free from CGT if held for three or more years. In certain circumstances, you may be able to defer a capital gain by investing that gain in an EIS qualifying company
The downside of EIS is that these schemes are higher risk than traditional investments.
5. Contribute to a pension
Making a pension contribution from relevant earnings could help you save on CGT because it effectively increases the upper limit of your income tax band. If, for example, you made a gross pension contribution of £10,000, the point at which higher-rate tax becomes payable would rise from £50,270 to £60,270 (2024/25 tax year). If your capital gain plus other taxable income fell within this extended basic-rate income tax band, CGT would be payable at 18% instead of 24%.
We live and work local to you. We would be delighted to help you and your family achieve financial clarity and stability.
Adam Jarvis Head of Office –Senior Investment Manager
E: adam.jarvis@brewin.co.uk
Kirsty Simpson Financial PlannerDivisional Director
E: kirsty.simpson@brewin.co.uk
46 Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8RY
T: 01962 798000
W: www.brewin.co.uk/our-offices/winchester
The value of investments, and any income from them, can fall and you may get back less than you invested. This does not constitute tax or legal advice. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy. Information contained in this document is believed to be reliable and accurate, but without further investigation cannot be warranted as to accuracy or completeness.
WARNER AND RICHARDSON LLP ARE INDEPENDENT SOLICITORS LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC CITY OF WINCHESTER.
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Council News
Test Valley Borough Council and CITB strengthen partnership with Employment and Skills Framework
Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) are pleased to announce the strengthening of their partnership through the implementation of CITB's revamped Employment and
Charity and council team up to launch free domestic abuse awareness training
Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) has joined forces with Andover-based charity, Finding Freedom from Abuse, to run free training sessions for hairdressers and beauticians to enable them to spot the signs of domestic abuse and support those who may be affected. Statistics shared by the women and children’s domestic violence charity, Refuge, show that one in four women in England and Wales will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. And, on average, one woman is killed by an abusive partner or ex every five days.
The ‘DOVE Champion Training’, run by Finding Freedom from Abuse, aims to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to identify warning signs of abuse, provide appropriate support, and connect individuals to essential resources.
The council has funded the sessions targeted specifically at hairdressers and beauticians as they often build close and trusting relationships with their clients, making them uniquely positioned to notice changes or signs that may indicate domestic abuse.
Skills Plans framework. The partnership was formalised with the agreement of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two organisations in September 2024. This collaboration aims to enhance employment opportunities and skill development in construction in the Test Valley area, particularly for large planning developments.
TVBC wants to ensure that employment and skills plans are agreed upon and monitored by their economic development team. These plans require developers to take on apprentices, offer work experience, and meet benchmark targets set by CITB's framework for different sizes of development.
In recognition of this successful partnership, CITB presented TVBC with a trophy. While the projects under this framework are still in their early stages, TVBC is honoured to receive this recognition.
Hairdressers and beauticianscould you spot the signs of
domestic abuse?
Phil North, Leader of Test Valley Borough Council said, "We are delighted to be recognised by CITB for our commitment to enhancing employment and skills opportunities in construction in Test Valley. This partnership is a testament to our dedication to ensuring that local developments contribute positively to the community by providing valuable training and employment opportunities."
Elizabeth Street, Customer Engagement Manager at CITB said, "We are pleased to present this trophy to Test Valley Borough Council in recognition of their proactive approach to implementing our employment and skills plans framework. Their efforts are setting a benchmark for other councils to follow, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact this partnership will have on the local workforce."
"We are delighted to work with Test Valley Borough Council to deliver DOVE Champion Training," said Donna Cullimore, CEO of Finding Freedom from Abuse.
"This initiative empowers professionals in the beauty industry to play a vital role in supporting vulnerable individuals and creating a safer community."
The sessions will provide practical guidance to help people to become compassionate and informed advocates within their communities. They will cover topics such as identifying signs of domestic abuse, approaching sensitive conversations with clients, and connecting individuals with local support services.
To book a training session, call 0333 242 2055 or email enquiries@findingfreedom.org.uk
TVBC’s housing portfolio holder, Councillor Kirsty North, added: “The statistics are truly sobering. This training will help people to recognise the signs that someone is experiencing domestic abuse, and, critically, to enable them to take steps towards getting away from their abuser.
“I would urge all salons and independent hairdressers and beauticians to sign up for the training. It is fully funded, so by sparing just a couple hours of your day, you could help to save someone’s life.”
The sessions are open to all hairdressers and beauticians in the Test Valley area. Finding Freedom from Abuse will run the free sessions with individual salons at a time that suits them.
Why Listening
to Your Body Is the Best Skill to Develop for 2025
In a world where we are increasingly being bombarded with health advice, the ability to listen to your body is a skill we need to both protect and develop. With experts, influencers, and endless articles offering often contradictory guidance, it can feel overwhelming to decipher what’s truly best for your health. Developing intuition, introspection, and a deep connection to your body’s internal signals is the key to navigating this chaos in 2025 and beyond.
Modern health information comes from many sources, from scientific studies to wellness trends promoted on social media. While access to this abundance of information is empowering, it’s also confusing. What works wonders for one person might not be effective for another - or worse, might even be harmful. How do you determine the best path for yourself? By tuning in to how your body feels and responds.
Interoception refers to the awareness of internal bodily sensations, such as hunger, thirst, heartbeat, or muscle tension. It involves tuning in to these signals to better understand your physical and emotional state, helping you respond to your body’s needs with greater clarity and care.
Trusting your instincts and cultivating introspection allows you to filter external advice through the lens of your unique needs. For example, if you try a highly praised diet or exercise program but it leaves you feeling exhausted or unwell, it’s a clear sign that it’s not right for you. Listening to these internal cues helps you honour your individuality rather than blindly following trends.
This doesn’t mean dismissing expert advice altogether. Healthcare professionals and credible sources provide valuable insights, and their guidance often forms a strong foundation for your health journey. However, the key is to gather information thoughtfully and then integrate it in a way that aligns with your body’s signals. Experiment, observe, and adapt.
Ignoring this inner wisdom can lead to frustration. If you solely rely on external advice and it doesn’t work, it’s easy to blame your body for
not responding as expected. This erodes your confidence, autonomy, and trust in your body’s innate ability to guide you. Over time, it may even diminish your capacity to make empowered decisions about your health.
To avoid this, focus on developing a stronger connection to your body’s internal messages. Practice mindfulness, pay attention to how food, movement, and rest impact you, and be curious about what your body is telling you. The more you listen, the better you’ll understand what works for you.
The Osteopathic approach is to respect the signals the body is sending, and rather than trying to supress them, use them as cues and information to try to find out the underlying cause of symptoms, and then to work alongside the body’s innate healing ability to stimulate the journey of recovery.
In 2025, when health advice is louder and more varied than ever, your body’s quiet wisdom is your best guide. Can you too adopt a more Osteopathic approach to your body? By learning to trust and listen to it, you’ll build confidence, strengthen your autonomy, and create a health journey that’s uniquely yours.
If you need guidance and support in reconnecting with your body, we are here for you. Please get in touch.
Emma Wightman www.the-sop.com
It’s good to be home
We’re here so your loved one can stay at home, where things are familiar and they feel at ease. We’re here for you too, because when a loved one needs care, it can be a challenging time in your life as well.
Of course, it’s much more than that. They also get 1-to-1 support with everyday errands. Help with washing and feeding, someone to swap stories with, and a new friend who can help them see old friends. All this in a safe environment, with familiar routines, that can delay age-related illnesses such as early onset dementia.
You also get complete confidence that they are receiving premium support from a provider that’s proudly rated Outstanding by the CQC.
For outstanding-rated home care throughout the Test Valley, contact us today 01264 310 888 andover@bluebirdcare.co.uk
It’s not just putting Mum at ease. It’s giving you peace of mind.
January, together with the many broken, or at least, mortally wounded New Years’ resolutions, littered her virtual rear-view mirror. There’d been the ‘fight-the-fat-in-afortnight-on-a-fad-diet’ resolution. It hadn’t worked. Then there was its sister, the ‘join a gym’ resolution. Sadly, the affordable, pre-festive ‘join now, get two months free’ gym deals that had flooded her inbox before Christmas, had jogged off. Full price membership had seemed expensive in the post devil-may-care-December landscape of January bills.
However, driving home from work she noticed that, to be fair, her suit trousers had relinquished their constrictor-like grip on her waistline. The mystery of the renewed comfort of her work wardrobe was simply solved; merely the cessation of a Christmas diet of chocolate tree decorations, Baileys in her morning coffee and pork products wrapped in pastry-slash-bacon. Although delicious and decadent, it was, regretfully, not sustainable. Especially once the January guilt and the nine-to-five job had kicked in. There’d been some exercise too. When the toddle across the sitting room to the tub of Celebrations, and back to the sofa, was no longer part of her daily ‘steps’, she’d needed a replacement activity. She couldn’t just sit around gazing into the empty tub and waiting for those ‘two months’ free’ emails to return.
So, in the meantime, there’d been the dog walking. Her habitual saunter through the woods whilst the dogs raced excitedly to and fro had needed to step up a gear. Or rather, drop down a gear - from a cruising fifth to a more urgent third. The dogs, excited by the new and apparent need to get somewhere
faster, raced more excitedly than ever. It was a win-win for all concerned.
But, as she drove home along the country road, something else in her actual rear-view mirror grabbed her attention. To stop around the blind corner and retrieve it would be a death sentence, so with a regretful sigh, she drove on.
“Lying in the road. So sad,” she announced as she wandered into the kitchen and dumped her handbag on the table. Himself jumped a little and furtively looked over his shoulder at her. “Who was lying in the road, looking sad?” he said, turning around, keeping one hand carefully behind his back.
“Do you think they had a row?” she said. “Who, the sad people in the road?” Himself was sporting a deep furrow between his brows. “What sad people?” It was her turn to frown.
Her phone beeped with a message; programmed with a maternal need to check each and every missive, she retrieved her phone. It was a Happy Valentine’s from their grown-up daughters, which reminded her that she needed to fetch a card she’d yet to sign, from the car.
With a breezy, “Won’t be a mo,” she trotted outside and paused to take in the fading vermilion shreds of a glorious sunset, thankful that the nights were getting out. The darkest, shortest, albeit most chocolatiest days of December were well past – and a cheerless January was but a bleak memory.
A few well-chosen words, a signature, several Xs and hearts later and her own Valentine’s card was ready to present to a (she thought) slightly shifty looking Himself, still lurking in a corner of the kitchen. Himself opened his card, thanked and embraced her with, it had to be
said, a mildly distracted air. “So, tell me about these sad people who were having a row in the road,” he insisted. The furrowed brow had returned.
She looked quickly around the room for a sign of a reciprocal card, maybe a box of chocolates, perhaps a bottle of fizz… Then she realised what wrong end of which stick he’d firmly grasped. She explained;
“Oh no.. Not people. I saw an abandoned bunch of red roses in the road. I’d have picked them up but it was just too dangerous. I imagined these people having an argument–over something trivial, or maybe something really serious – relationship-killing even. And her throwing those beautiful flowers out of the car window. It upset me.”
“Ah. I see.” He nodded, comprehension flooding his features. She sneaked another look around at the various worksurfaces and still couldn’t spot anything in a red envelope.. Himself was speaking again.
“If you’re looking for a card, there isn’t one. I decided to give my dyslexic outpourings a miss this year. Although, I feel that that my spelling of ‘solemate’ has a certain poetic truth, given your love of seafood.”
He went on. “And as for the poor people having a row and throwing the flowers out of the car? I propose an alternative and less unhappy scenario. Man buys flowers for his ‘solemate’. Man puts flowers on the roof of the car as he grapples with his keys. Man drives off.. Man returns to flower shop and buys replacement flowers for his true love. And here you are, in a language that’s impossible to miss-spell.”
And from behind his back, with a furrowbanishing smile, Himself produced a bunch of red roses..
Curtis Museum & Allen Gallery
Allen Gallery
Jane Austen 2025
Film - Emma - Sunday 19th January 2.30pm (film starts at 2.45pm). We welcome back film screenings to the Allen Gallery with an afternoon showing of Emma (2020) as part of the Jane Austen Birthday Ball Weekend.
This winter warmer will start off a special year marking the 250th anniversary of Jane's birth. Refreshments will be available from the café. The film will be followed by a special Regency-themed Evensong at 6pm at St Lawrence Church, a short walk from the Gallery. Tickets £7 each, available in person from the Gallery.
Clay Make & Take - A family pottery session. Tuesday 18th February, 11am - 12pm. Our popular clay workshops give the whole family a chance to enjoy an hour of making a small pot or other creation. Please bring an apron or old clothes. We kindly ask parents or guardians to remain on site, or they can join in the activity. £6 per person.
Moments that Matter Art Competition: A celebration of life’s treasured moments
This year, the Countess of Brecknock Hospice (COBH) celebrates 35 years of compassionate care in our community. To mark this special milestone, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of the Moments that Matter Art Competition, inspired by the special and meaningful moments that define our lives.
This competition invites participants to reflect on and creatively express the theme of
An introduction to the art of Backstrap Weaving - a traditional, loom-free process where you will learn how to construct a beautiful wall-hanging or table runner. Led by Karen Parkin of the Hampshire Weavers Guild. £15 each, or £12 unwaged/children aged 8+. Please book on the Allen Gallery website.
Friends of the Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery Monthly Talk
The History of the Basingstoke Canal. A talk by Roger Cansdale of the Basingstoke Canal Society. Thursday February 13th, 7.30pm. FREE, donations welcomed.
“Moments that Matter”- moments cherished by individuals living with terminal illnesses or those who have experienced the death of a loved one. Through this initiative, we aim to engage our community in celebrating the hospice’s role in creating these vital moments and the importance of its presence in our lives.
Key dates:
• Competition launches: Monday 3 February 2025
• Closing date for entries: Friday 27 June 2025
• Exhibition open to public: From Saturday 20 September 2025
• Awards: Countess of Brecknock Award (announced Monday 4 August) and People’s Choice Award (announced Monday 6 October).
The competition is open to everyone aged seven and above, from amateur artists to professionals. Entries can include paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, and more. Winners across various age categories will
Curtis Museum
Museum by Torchlight - Tuesday 18th February, 5.30pm - 7.30pm. Our everpopular torchlight tour of the Museum. £4 per child. Children must be accompanied by an adult - adults are free. Bring your favourite torch, or use one of ours.
Free
Trails
8th February - 2nd March. See if you can spot all the toy dinosaurs (younger children). Or complete the Natural History quiz (older children). Pick up a sticker if you win.
Additional events will be held at the Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery throughout February for more information visit the website.
Opening Times
Tuesday to Sunday - 10am to 4.30pm
Curtis Museum - High Street, Alton, GU34 1BA
Allen Gallery - 10-12, Church Street, Alton GU34 2BW hampshireculture.org.uk/curtis-museum www.hampshireculture.org.uk/allen-gallery
receive prizes, with the top entry in each category awarded £250.
The competition will culminate in an exhibition of the winning entries held at the hospice. The exhibition will open with a special VIP event on the 35th anniversary itself, Friday 19 September 2025. Let’s celebrate life’s most meaningful moments together. Visit www.cobh.org. uk/news for entry details and submission guidelines. Your creativity could inspire others and help us highlight the importance of hospice care in Andover and beyond.
This project has received funding from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. www.gov.uk/government/ publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fundprospectus
The Countess of Brecknock House, Charlton Road, War Memorial Community Hospital, Andover, SP10 3LB Tel: 01264 835288 www.cobh.org.uk
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Big boost for community projects across South Downs to begin 2025
Cycle path improvements, new toilets, a school extension, wildlife viewing platform and the restoration of a historic walled garden are among the community projects to benefit from a major funding boost from the South Downs National Park Authority.
To kick off 2025 the National Park is announcing 27 projects across Sussex and Hampshire that will receive a share of just over £1.9m. The funds have been raised through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which is administered by the National Park Authority and paid by developers as a means of supporting new community infrastructure. In addition to the £1.9m, 29 parish councils across the National Park are sharing more than £313,000 for the benefit of their local community.
Petersfield Heath
In Hampshire, £75,000 will go towards access and toilet improvements at Petersfield Heath, as well as a further £30,000 to be spent on the installation of a Changing Places toilet at Queen Elizabeth Country Park. Meanwhile, £40,000 will go towards “Butser’s butterflies” with extra funding to improve the precious chalk grassland for the insects. Selborne School will benefit from £100,000 for an extension to help improve after-school facilities. On the popular Meon Valley Trail, access will be improved with the addition of a new ramp at Soberton, thanks to a cash injection of £75,000. Some £30,000 will go towards the restoration of a walled garden at Chawton House which has long associations with Jane Austen and her family.
In West Sussex, over £720,000 will go towards the second phase of Centurion Way, which is providing a new link for walkers and cyclists from Chichester into the heart of the National
Park at Cocking and linking up with the South Downs Way. Some £50,000 will go towards improving wetland and grazing habitats at RSPB Pulborough Brooks, while £20,000 has been allocated towards refurbishing Burpham Village Hall. At Northchapel, £20,000 will go towards installing a multi-use games area at the local sports club.
Vanessa Rowlands, Chair of the South Downs National Park Authority, said: “As we begin 2025 and enter the National Park’s 15th year, it’s wonderful to share this good news.
“There’s a great mix of projects across the length and breadth of the National Park, many that will enrich the quality of people’s lives and help improve access to this cherished landscape, as well as tackling the biodiversity and climate crises.
“The Community Infrastructure Levy is an important element of our role as a planning authority and we know it can make a real difference to local communities, encouraging them to prosper and benefitting future generations.”
The Authority has now opened the call for projects for the 2025/2026 round of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding. Find out more here: www.southdowns.gov.uk/communityinfrastructure-levy/revision-of-spending-cil/ applying-for-cil-funds-for-an-infrastructureproject/
CIL funding is designed to be spent on infrastructure to support growth within the National Park around the priorities of Nature Recovery, Climate Action and A National Park for All and the Authority welcomes potential bids that support these priorities.
Please note while funding is provided from the Community Infrastructure Levy, the schemes will primarily be delivered by partners and community groups and the CIL investment often only makes up a portion of the total cost of the project.
Hampshire Funding
• Selbourne School – building extension to enable ‘wrap around care’. £100,000
• Winnall Moors Nature Reserve –replacement of existing boardwalks. £150,000
• Petersfield Health – access and toilet improvements. £75,000
• Meon Valley Trail – access ramp at Soberton. £75,000
• East Meon – byway upgrade. £50,000
• Boosting Butser’s Butterflies – restore and improve an area of priority habitat at Butser Hill Nature Reserve by re-establishing chalk grassland. £40,000
• Queen Elizabeth Country Park – installation of Changing Places Toilet and separate fully accessible shower and changing block. £30,000
• Chawton House – restoration of walled garden. £30,000
• Rowlands Castle – highway and open spaces improvements. £15,000
• Cheriton – highway and open spaces improvements. £20,000
• The Green Room School, Kingsley – multipurpose Pod helping to deliver therapeutic needs. £5,500
South Downs National Park North Street, Midhurst, West Sussex GU29 9DH
Tel: 01730 814810 www.southdowns.gov.uk
DELIVERY PEOPLE URGENTLY REQUIRED TO DELIVER THE THE TEST VALLEY FORUM
Chilbolton
Approximately
Pays
Houghton/North Houghton/ Horsebridge
Approximately
Pays
Longstock & Leckford
Pays
Approximately
Wherwell
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Goodworth Clatford
Approximately 390 homes
Pays
GARDEN
National Garden Scheme Hampshire
We have the very welcome news from our NGS Head Office in that the total donated to our beneficiaries from the 2024 Season is a staggering £3.5million - £1.1million MORE than the NGS raised in 2023. Of course that means we really have to pull out all the stops in 2025 to try to surpass this figure. As always the lions share (£2.550,00) goes to our main six nursing and health charities - some the Countries bast loved - The Queen’s Nursing Institute: Marie Curie: Macmillan Cancer Support: Hospice UK: Carers Trust and Parkinson’s UK. For 2024 a very significant beneficiary was added to our list: The John King Brain Tumour Foundation.
John King was an extremely popular chef with an international reputation. In 2015 John was diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumour, and sadly passed away in November 2016. You can read more about this Charity on the website, and about the amazing work they are now doing.
Bere Mill, London Road, Whitchurch, RG28 7NH
Opening: Sunday 16th March & Sunday 13th April 1pm to 5pm. Admission: £8.00 children free. Cashless Payments Available. Refreshments: Homemade teas
The garden is built around the early C18 mill on an idyllic isolated stretch of the River Test, east of Whitchurch. The gardens have been built incrementally over 30 years with extensive bulb planting for the Spring garden. The mill buildings were the original location of Portals who first sold bank note paper to the Bank of England from the mill in 1724 and there are interesting industrial and agricultural archaeological remains, including reconstructed water meadow structures. The owners farm the surrounding fields with traditional breeds of sheep and cattle. The mill house and barns were rebuilt to exacting standards after a fire of 2018. The house and farm are self-sufficient in energy, waste and water. A butchery sells the home grown meat from the farm.
This garden also opens By Arrangement for Groups from February to September, and Coaches are welcome. Please contact the owner to discuss requirements and availability. Rupert Nabarro: rupertnab@gmail.com - 07703 161074
Also open in March
Chawton House, Chawton, Alton, GU34 1SJ
Open: Sunday 16th March from 10am to 3pm
Little Court, Crawley, Winchester, SO21 2PU Open: Sunday & Monday 30th & 31st March from 2pm to 5.30pm.
Wishing you all a Happy Garden Visiting Season. Pat Beagley (Head of Publicity) pat.beagley@ngs.org.uk National Garden Scheme - Hampshire
Gardening Tips for February by Jill Walmsley, Education Trustee of Hampshire Gardens Trust
February is a pivotal month for gardeners, as the promise of spring lies just around the corner. While the weather can still be unpredictable, it’s the perfect time to start preparing for the growing season ahead. We at the Hampshire Gardens Trust are here to foster an appreciation for heritage gardens but passion for the outdoors starts at home with our own gardens. So here are some essential gardening tips to make the most of February:
1. Prepare Your Soil
If the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged, February is ideal for soil preparation. Remove weeds, add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure, and gently fork the surface of the soil to improve aeration.
2. Start Seed Sowing Indoors
Now’s the time to sow seeds indoors for early crops. Hardy vegetables like tomatoes, chillies, and aubergines can be started in seed trays or small pots on a sunny windowsill or in a heated propagator. Flower seeds, such as sweet peas, can also be sown for vibrant blooms later in the year.
3. Prune Shrubs and Trees
Pruning in February is crucial for certain plants. Trim back roses, wisteria, and late-flowering clematis to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Avoid pruning early-flowering shrubs as you might remove buds.
4. Tidy Up
Clear away dead foliage, fallen leaves, and debris from flower beds to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering. This also makes space for new growth to emerge in spring.
5. Check Tools and Equipment
Now is a good time to clean and sharpen tools, service your lawnmower, and ensure everything is ready for the busy months ahead.
By taking these steps in February, your garden will be well-prepared for a thriving spring. Despite the cold, a little effort this month will yield rewarding results as the seasons change. If you are interested in learning more, you can become a member of the Hampshire Gardens Trust to attend garden lecture days, open gardens and outdoor performances throughout the summer months. Happy gardening!
Vegetable crops grown by the children at one of Hampshire Gardens Trust’s school projects.
DON S GARAGE DOORS
Stockbridge Town Hall (Hurford Hall), High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE Monday 24th February 2025 Afternoon: 3:00 - 4:00pm Evening: 7:00 - 8:00pm
There has been a lot of scepticism and misinformation about Heat Pumps so come along and find out:
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Test Valley Arts FoundationChairman’s Report 2024/2025
Yinnon Ezra MBE FRSA
Ihave now been Chairman of the Test Valley Arts Foundation (TVAF) for ten years. I followed Madeline Edmonds MBE JP who when she retired passed over a solid record of achievement. This included the refurbishment of a derelict Chapel in the Andover Cemetery out of which Chapel Arts Studios was created. Also, a history of advocating for the importance of Arts and Culture as an integral part of the regeneration of Andover. This proud legacy was handed to me to take forward. Madeline passed away late in 2024 and her contribution to the community of the Test Valley will always be remembered. We have also been privileged to have on the Board of Trustees a founding Chairman and former Leader of both Test Valley Borough Council and Hampshire County Council Roy Perry – his contribution to the work of TVAF and the community has been invaluable. Michael Moore our longstanding Company Secretary has ensured we have remained ‘legal’ and in his own way has done much for the arts in The Valley. Michael Johnson, also a Trustee who has been around for many years, assisted in many projects. Michael Widen an efficient and creative Development Officer, together with the two Rebeccas and more recently Sue Messa who as a former Development Officer was persuaded to come back as a Trustee also providing essential support to John Dumper our proactive and supportive Treasurer. Other Trustees, Georgiana Robertson, Dorothy Baverstock and Vice - Chairman David Drew - all give dedicated and creative support to the Board.
At our AGM on 23rd January 2025 a number of Trustees will be stepping down. Dorothy Baverstock due to ill health, Georgiana Robertson, Michael Johnson and I will be leaving TVAF. Sue Messa and John Dumper will continue with a view to stepping down later in the year. So, it is a time of change and reinvention for TVAF. Following a very successful consultation meeting on 9th January facilitated by independent consultant James Gough –various stakeholders and many individuals made their views known about the work of TVAF. At this meeting I was heartened by the huge support for the work of TVAF and more importantly those present were keen for TVAF to continue - at one stage the Board, after thirty very successful years, were seriously considering winding up the Foundation. Many have also put themselves forward as possible Trustees. With a new Chairman, a revitalised TVAF can continue
to be an important voice for the Arts and Culture in the Test Valley and beyond!? After the AGM the new Chairman and Board will want to reflect on the direction they wish to take.
The last year has been busy. With the one-off financial support from Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) - thank you Cllr Terese Swain - we were able to be present at the Romsey Show, the Eastleigh Mela, Trout and About, for the first time at the Museum of Army Flying and many a village fete - with TVBC we supported the Andover World Street Party, attended by many hundreds of people. With Chapel Arts Studios (CAS) we continue to support Artists in Residence at both Romsey and Andover Libraries as well as at Andover Museum and St Johns House in Romsey. We were pleased to continue supporting a number of Test Valley villages with Art Exhibitions - the one in Broughton being particularly successful. Test Valley Tales 2 - being compiled by award winning sculptor Bridget Dumper - is well under way with a host of new stories particularly reflecting the very diverse community of the Test Valley. We were particularly pleased to support the Hampshire Record Office with their Andover Overspill project which brings to life the films and sound of that hugely important local change. A number of these projects were supported by a grant from the Leader of HCC’s fund with a requirement for matching funds. This has become harder to do! The last one which we are still currently working on with Chapel Arts Studios is Finding Friends 2- the first project identified the views of many ‘invisible’ residents who movingly stated their challenges. Much of the recommendations of this initial report have been taken forward by Test Valley Borough Council’s Arts and Community Team by the creation of forums which bring Arts and Cultural Organisations together and the multi-cultural community of Andover. As Chairman I was involved briefly in the
Andover Theatre Project- a team of excellent people have been chosen to bring a corner of Andover back to life. I congratulate TVBC on persisting with this project and look forward to something ‘concrete’. The importance of Arts and Culture assisting in bringing Andover Town Centre to life is really encouraging. The need to link this to whatever happens in the future to Andover Museum and The Museum of the Iron Age is an opportunity NOT to be missed.
This then will be my last Annual Report - it has been a pleasure and privilege to work with so many from all parts of the Test Valley and across so many exciting projects. Everything from the commissioning of plays, to writing projects, the Arts Bus, many exhibitions etc. etc.……https:// testvalleyartsfoundation.org/achievements/ and securing National Portfolio Organisation status for Chapel Arts, all only made possible by embracing the creative community of the Test Valley. I suppose if I have some highlights, it was Now we tell our Tale, It Happened in Hampshire, the Arts Bus and the numerous events we were able to go to and the two wonderful ‘street parties’ in Andover which were enjoyed by many thousands of people.
None of this would have been possible without the many people and organisations and volunteers - particularly Rodney Allsop -Seward - all, who during my ten years as Chairman have made a huge contribution to our community. I will conclude by thanking our many supporters – Hampshire County Council and Test Valley Borough Council, BeWiser Insurance, Aster Housing, The Forum Magazine and finally our anonymous donor who invested nearly £25k only because he wanted to “support the Arts” in Andover.
Thank You, All of You!
I conclude by wishing the new Chairman and Board the very best for the future and for the Test Valley Arts Foundation being the ongoing voice for Artists And Culture in the Test Valley.
Yinnon Ezra MBE FRSA
Two in one garage door conversion specialist
FROM THIS TO THIS IN ONE DAY
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Skandoor has led the way in manufacturing and installing garage doors in Hampshire and the south for many years. Our speciality is high-quality garage and front doors, on-time delivery and full ownership from start to finish.
A well respected long established family run business based in Bishop's Waltham
AUTOMATIC INSULATED GARAGE DOORS & FRONT DOORS
Roller Doors
Roller Door
2 Medium Panelled Sectional Doors
2 Medium Individial Panelled Sectional Doors
Two large ribbed smooth sectional doors Solidor Front Door
Roller Door
Lamb Stew with Apple & Cinnamon
INGREDIENTS
• 15 grams flour
• 8 grams salt
• 2 grams ground black pepper
• 2 grams thyme (dried)
• 500 grams diced lamb (cut 1cm sq) *
• Olive or Rapeseed oil *
• 400mls Hill Farm Apple Juice *
• 120 mls water
• 40 mls cider vinegar *
• 4-5 bay leaves
• 1 stick of cinnamon
• 2 medium sized carrots peeled and cut into chunks *
• Stick of celery (optional) *
• 2 medium potatoes peeled and cut into chunks *
• 1 medium sized onion diced *
• 3 apples peeled cored and cut into chunks *
METHOD
Gently fry the onion in a large saucepan until soft but not browned and then put to one side. Mix the flour, black pepper, thyme and salt together in a bowl. Coat the diced lamb with the seasoned flour and fry in small batches to seal.
When all the lamb is sealed and browned return the fried onions back to the saucepan. Add water, apple juice, cider vinegar, bay leaves and cinnamon and bring to the boil. Once boiled lower temperature to a simmer and cook for approximately 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
Add in potatoes, celery, carrots and apples bring to the boil again and then simmer until vegetables are cooked through. If the stew is looking dry you can add some additional water.
This recipe has quite a sharp flavour so for those who prefer a sweeter taste do not use cider vinegar and add an additional 40 mls of water.
Either serve with green vegetables or keep quite soupy and serve in a bowl with crusty bread to mop up the gravy!
FEBRUARY HAMPSHIRE FARMERS MARKETS
Petersfield - Sun 2nd, Romsey - Sun 2nd, Alton - Sat 8th, Winchester - Sun 9th, Emsworth - Sat 15th, Southsea - Sun 16th, Ringwood - Sat 22nd, Winchester - Sun 23rd For more information visit: www.hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk
Newbury Building Society
Community Support Scheme 2025
Did you know that Newbury Building Society offer grants to community organisations, charities, and clubs local to their branch towns?
We’re committed to giving back to the communities where our members and employees live and work.
In 2024, we helped 27 organisations throughout Berkshire, Hampshire, and Oxfordshire, donating over £12,550. You can also pick up a paper application form in your local branch.
