Winchester Forum - Issue 5 - May 2024

Life in your City Winchester

FORUM

ENVIRONMENT FEATURE

Hampshire & Isle of Wight

Trust - Lady of the Stream

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Slow Roasted Tuscan Pork

OUR REGULAR FEATURE Wrinkles by Lucia Foster-Found

WIN FAMILY FESTIVAL TICKETS

To Good Festival (see page 8)

May Events

Winchester Go LD Garden & Craft Fair

Wednesday 8 May

From 10am to 4pm

Upper Farm, Down Farm Lane, Headbourne Worthy, SO23 7LA

Join us for gardening inspiration and fantastic shopping with plant nurseries, artisan & homeware products, fashion accessories & delicious foods. Delicious light refreshments and home made lunch will be available in the Winchester Go LD Cafe Marquee. Winchester Go LD members will be selling our new range of kitchen accessories and whipping up some delicious smoothies. Come and find us by the Smoothie Bike and say hello! Winchester Go LD enables adults with learning disabilities to live life to the full with the choices and independence that they want. To be opened by Lady Louisa Portal. 35+ Stalls & Talks. Food and drinks available in the marquee. Parking available on site. No dogs please. Entrance £5.

Barton Stacey Chamber

Choir presents Ancient & Modern

Saturday 11 May

From 3pm

St. Johns Baptist Church, 19 St John's St, Winchester SO23 0HF

Choral gems from across the ages. Victoria Byrd, Rheinberger Tallis, Lauridsen Todd, Gjeilo Rutter. Tickets £10 - £8 concessions (under 12s free). All proceeds to the friends of St Johns Church. Nearest parking at Chesil Street Multi Storey.

Demonstration of Mediumship Monthly Meeting

Thur 9 May and Thur 13 June

From 6.30pm

The Worthys, Jubilee Hall, Kings Worthy, Winchester, SO23 7AQ

Join us for an incredible evening of mediumship at. This in-person evening will leave you amazed as our talented mediums connect with the spirit world. Experience messages from departed loved ones, and receive insightful guidance. Witness the power of the unseen as the medium delivers accurate and heartwarming messages. Whether you are a skeptic or a believer, the evening promises to be a fascinating and thought-provoking experience.

A warm welcome awaits you. Free refreshments, mini readings £5, Healing, Gift stall, and Bereavement Support. Members £4, Non-members £5.50. Doors open 6.30pm for 7pm – 9pm. 09 May 2024 - Medium Claire Sutton, 13 June 2024Maria Trowman.

Saxon

Winchester Guided Walking Tour

Saturday 11 May

From 2.30pm to 4pm

Winchester Visitor Information Centre, The Guildhall, Broadway, Winchester, SO23 9GH

A walk to discover Winchester's important role in Saxon history. Join one of Winchester's professional guides for a 90 minute walking tour, starting at Winchester Visitor Information Centre. The tour includes locations in the city centre that had significance in Saxon times, concentrating mainly on late Saxon: King Alfred to 1066. It will include the flourishing

of art in Winchester, Viking and Norman influences, King Cnut, Queen Emma and the important monasteries of the time – Old & New Minsters and Nunnaminster. The route is accessible to wheelchair users. Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome. Tickets are £11 for adults, £5 for children (under 16) and available in advance through the website or in person on the day at the Visitor Information Centre.

Winchester City Mill Fundraising Spinathon

Sunday 12 May

From 10am to 5pm

Winchester City Mill, Bridge St, Winchester SO23 0EJ

Our General Manger will be taking part in a 12 hour Spinathon inside of the Mill and we would like to invite you along. In honour of our otter family, Gordon will be donning an otter costume. We hope to raise a lotta, with our cycling otter! As well as the main event we will have pop up stalls and activities going on all day so come on down and help our wheel spin again! We need to raise £130,000 to get our water wheel back into working condition. For more information on how you can donate and help support Gordon, our general manager, on his Spinathon challenge, please visit our fundraising page. This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

University of Winchester Campus Tour

Tuesday 21 May

From 2.30pm to 4pm

University of Winchester Sparkford Road, Winchester. Hampshire. SO22 4NR.

This event offers you the chance to take a look around our campuses! There will be the opportunity to attend small, guided tours, look around our Student Villages and speak to current students. Book Your Place. If you have any questions, feel free to send the Open Days team an email on opendays@winchester.ac.uk

Trinity Big Sleep Out

Friday 24 May

From 6pm

In the grounds of Winchester College, College St, Winchester SO23 9NA

We will be spending the night under the stars in the Wardens Gardens of Winchester College. Sleeping out in homemade cardboard shelters, we will raise money and awareness for those facing homelessness while enjoying local food and entertainment. Last year, you helped us raise over £27,000 to support our service’s and we couldn’t have done it without you. Every penny that you raise in sponsorship will go back into Trinity’s services, offering longterm, positive change. Family event - non sleepers welcome. £6 per child and £12 per adult, £60 for groups. Register todaytrinitywinchester.org.uk

Gurkha Museum Curry Lunch

Friday 31 May

From 12.30pm

The Gurkha Museum

Peninsula Barracks, Winchester SO23 8TP

Join us for a delicious traditional two course Nepali curry lunch and a complimentary drink. In our grand McDonald Gallery, which houses our unique picture, silver and medal collection, our Gurkha curry lunches take place on the last Friday of each month. All welcome. Ticket price includes two course curry lunch and a visit to the Museum. There is a cash bar available. Arrive at 12.30pm for a 1pm sit down. Book before Noon on Monday 27 May to secure your booking.

Any 3 Windows

Any 4 Windows

Any 5 Windows

Any 6 Windows

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Any 11 Windows

Any 12 Windows

Any 13 Windows

Any 14 Windows

Any 15 Windows

Abbotts Barton – £650,000 Freehold

A handsome and well-proportioned four bedroom semi-detached family home with light and bright accommodation situated on the fringes of Winchester.

EPC: C Council Tax: E

Micheldever Station – £750,000 Freehold

A wonderfully spacious family home, situated on a particularly generous gated plot measuring a quarter of an acre. Offering 2247 square feet comprising of five bedrooms, large living room, social kitchen with sunroom and a detached garage.

EPC: E Council Tax: D

& LETTINGS AGENTS

Winchester City Centre – £700,000 Freehold

A terrific period gem in the heart in Winchester city centre. This glorious characterful cottage is deceptively spacious, with three bedrooms, multiple reception spaces and even off road parking. A viewing is essential to appreciate the lovely feel of the home.

EPC: D Council Tax: D

SOLDSTC

Shawford – £975,000 Freehold

A tremendously spacious detached family home at nearly 3000 square feet. Immaculately presented and replete with high-quality features, this wonderful property on a quarter of an acre offers five bedrooms, large living room, double garage and beautifully landscaped grounds. The accommodation is particularly generous and a viewing is essential.

EPC: C Council Tax: G

SATURDAY 16TH JUNE DUMMER, BASINGSTOKE

TICKET GIVEAWAY

WIN a family ticket* to Good Festival on Saturday 16th June at Dummer Down Farm, a festival raising funds for the Hampshire Medical Fund.

TO ENTER, SIMPLY:

1. Follow @goodfestival and @hampshiremedicalfund on Instagram

2. Comment ‘GOOD TIMES’ on our ticket giveaway post

Giveaway closes on 16th May. Winner will be contacted via Instagram. Find out more at goodfestival.co.uk.

T&Cs: Person entering must be at least 18 years of age.

*Two adults and up to three children

The Country House Company presents two historic homes in Hampshire FOR SALE, SOBERTON

The Towers was constructed in the late 19th century and has previously served as a private residence, a prep school and a home for Wrens stationed at HMS Mercury in the war. In the late 1970s, it was sympathetically converted into nine homes.

This prestigious property historically the main entrance to the house, retains its elegant façade and the original commemorative plaque laid in recognition of its designer, the late Colonel Bashford.

It is one of the most privately situated properties within the development and the only one to benefit from approximately one acre of grounds.

TO LET, PETERSFIELD

Having been sympathetically restored and refurbished by the current owner, its accommodation is both impressive in its presentation and versatile in its configuration.

Stunning character features have been retained throughout the property to include ornate ceiling cornices, oak panelling, fireplaces, shuttered sash windows and parquet flooring with newly fitted kitchen and bathrooms to ensure comfortable modern living.

Tel: 01962 571189

management@countryhousecompany.co.uk

sales@countryhousecompany.co.uk

lettings@countryhousecompany.co.uk countryhousecompany.co.uk

This elegant property is the converted western wing of what was once the stately home for the Bonham Carter family and is now divided into three private dwellings.

Kitchen makeovers

After Makeover

10%

off all makeover orders taken in May Makeovers up to 50% cheaper than fitting a new kitchen!

Before Makeover

Makeover Options

∙ Change all your drawers, doors, panels and plinths

∙ New worktops can be fitted

∙ Small amendmants to existing cabinetry and layout can be made

∙ Built in ovens can be changed to eye level ovens

Kitchen makeovers

Before Makeover After Makeover

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

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.

8 year winner of the Best of Houzz award and one of the highest reviewed kitchen companies on Houzz in the UK

June Events

AI Arts Festival 2024

Sunday 2 June

From 11am to 5.30pm

ARC and Theatre Royal Winchester Hampshire SO23 8SB

Join artists and musicians from the University of Southampton, the Winchester School of Art and around the world to explore how AI and the arts are coming together in media from photography, fashion and literature to comedy and jazz, in a festival of installations, demonstrations, comedy sets, readings and discussions. The festival is excited to welcome special guests the Orchestre National De Jazz – to perform an exploration of improvisations between instrumentalists and a machine within a large jazz orchestra. The interactive all-day event is open to the public and will showcase the ways in which the University of Southampton is using the convergence of AI and the arts to explore crucial questions around how we are going to live responsibly and in harmony with powerful machines unleashed by revolutions in computing power and machine learning.

Winchester Beer and Cider Festival 2024

Friday 7 to Sat 8 June Various times

Friday 7 to Sat 8 June

See times below

Winchester Students Union, Sparkford Road, Winchester, SO22 4NR

This year the festival will showcase up to 75 cask ales, featuring a range of high quality traditional ales, new and exciting craft ales, brewery collaborations, and one-off specials. This vast range of beers will also be matched by a range of real ciders and perry, a craft beer bar and a selection of bottled/canned beers - something

to inspire and appeal to all tastes. This year's festival will consist of four sessions: Friday 7th June

11:30-16:00, Friday 7th June

18:00-22:30, Saturday 8th June

11:30-16:00 and Saturday 8th June 18:00-22:30. For more information visit: https:// winchesterbeerfestival.camra.org. uk/

'Our Ocean' at Rachel Bebb Contemporary, Broughton

Sunday 8 June

From 6pm to 8pm

Rachel Bebb Contemporary Art - Rookery Ln, Broughton, Stockbridge SO20 8A

To mark World Ocean Day, and the final day of the exhibition 'Our Ocean', glassmakers Roberta Mason and Neil Wilkin will talk about their exhibits at the gallery and their involvement with Project Seagrass. A representative from Project Seagrass will be present and profits will be donated to the charity. Tickets £20 each, to include wine, and canapes made with sustainablysourced ingredients by chef Dominique Goltinger. Find out more here - https://www. rachelbebbcontemporary.com/ post/summer-exhibition-ourocean

Grand Garden Reception and Annual Lecture

Friday 14 June

From 6pm to 9pm

Masters Garden and St Cross

Church, Hospital of St Cross, Back St, Winchester, SO23 9SD

Come and enjoy a glass of fizz and canapes in the Master's Garden. Followed by a talk by one of our Patrons, Alastair Bruce. Alastair is Sky News Religious and National Events Commentator and was historical adviser to several feature films and ITV’s Downton Abbey. His talk is entitled “Passing the Kingdom’s Baton: a broadcaster’s

reflection on ceremony, semiotics and the change of reign”.Cost £25.00 per head - To book please email friends@ stcrosshospital.co.uk

The Summer Soirée Cabaret | Winchester

Friday 14 June

From 7pm to 10.30pm

The Pump House Winchester Garnier Road Winchester SO23 9QG

It's here, it's what Winchester has been waiting for, bursting for, gasping for...It's the Summer Soirée Cabaret. This new extraordinary spectacle is the epitome of top quality entertainment and it's just the beginning! You can expect unrivaled pizzazz and elegantly captivating performances that will set the night ablaze. The Summer Soirée Cabaret is a cavalcade of tantalizing acts, a medley of show-stopping moments all promising both laughter and allure in a deliciously scrummy blend. In collaboration with the wonderful Pump House, there will be delicious food to indulge your every craving and cocktails galore! This is a Noir Night designed for those who relish the exquisitely unexpected and sophisticated immersive experiences. For tickets visit: https://www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-summersoiree-cabaret-winchestertickets-872423651627

After Dark - Led Zeppelin: The Planetarium Experience

Saturday 15 June

From 8pm

Winchester Science Centre, Telegraph Way, Winchester SO21 1HZ

Are you ready to Rock n' Roll? Sit back and hold on tight as 12 of Led Zeppelin's legendary tunes play out against a backdrop of dynamic 360 degree Planetarium visuals. Experience surrealistic

environments and moodprovoking abstract art that will propel fans on a trip down memory lane. We've got a Whole Lotta Love for this show!

Blue Apple Theatre presents The Wind in the Willows at Theatre Royal Winchester

From 7.30pm

Theatre Royal Winchester, Jewry St, Winchester, SO23 8SB

Expect friendship and foolishness in equal measure! Guest cameo voice role by Chris Packham Join Ratty, Mole, Badger, Toad and friends on their countryside adventures in The Wind in the Willows at Theatre Royal Winchester 26 to 27 June 2024. Blue Apple's version of the muchloved family favourite will go right back to the source material and pay due respect to Kenneth Grahame's creations – then they'll present them in their own unique way – seen from their viewpoint. Expect a visual treat, songs, laughs and colourful characters; buffoonery, heroes, villains, jokes that wouldn't be out of place in a pantomime and an ending where all get their just rewards. A matinée and livestream option are also available at 1pm on Thursday 27 June.

Ticket prices from £10 Livestream webcast performance: Thursday 27 June 2024 at 1pm | Tickets: £10 - Group rates available: Groups of 8+ there is discount of up to 20% Group rates are at discretion - School groups 8+ - there is a discount of up to 33%. Tickets available in advance from www. theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk or at Theatre Royal Winchester Box Office on 01962 840440. Ticket prices include booking fee and restoration levy.

Understanding your pension annual allowance

Making the most of your pension annual allowance is a great way to boost your retirement savings tax-efficiently. But complex rules around calculating individual allowances mean many people risk exceeding limits and facing surprise tax bills.

Figures from HMRC show the number of people who reported pension contributions exceeding their annual allowance soared from just 5,450 in 2015/161 to 53,330 in 2021/221. Meanwhile, the total value of contributions exceeding the allowance rocketed from £143m to £1.2bn2

Understanding your pension annual allowance and managing it effectively is essential to avoid unexpected tax charges. A financial adviser can offer advice on your individual circumstances but here are some of the key considerations.

What is the pension annual allowance?

The pension annual allowance is the maximum amount you can save into your pensions in any one tax year without having to pay a tax charge.

For most people, the standard annual allowance is £60,000, though you can only receive tax relief on up to 100% of your UK relevant earnings.

What happens if I exceed it?

If you exceed the annual allowance, you’ll pay a charge, which essentially claws back any excess tax relief received. The rate of charge you’ll pay will depend on the tax band(s) that your income plus the excess contribution fall into.

For example, a higher-rate taxpayer who exceeds their annual allowance by £10,000 would pay a charge of £4,000 (£10,000 x 40%).

Can I avoid charges using carry forward?

You may be able to ‘carry forward’ unused annual allowances from the previous three tax years.

Carry forward can be a really useful way of reducing or avoiding tax charges, as well as making use of unused annual allowances. However, the rules are complex, so please seek advice.

Why might my annual allowance be lower?

Although £60,000 is typical, your allowance could be lower due to the annual allowance taper if your ‘adjusted income’ exceeds

£260,000 a year and ‘threshold income’ exceeds £200,000 a year. Your allowance then reduces £1 for every £2 of excess adjusted income, down to a minimum of £10,000.

Your allowance might also fall to £10,000 if you have flexibly accessed your direct contribution (DC) pension, triggering the money purchase annual allowance (MPAA), which limits the amount of contributions you can make to DC pensions while still receiving tax relief.

Is it ever worth exceeding the annual allowance?

In some cases, it can make sense to exceed your allowance and pay the charge, especially if receiving generous employer contributions that would cease if you stopped paying into your pension.

The rules are complex, so speaking to a financial adviser can help you evaluate your options and maximise unused tax allowances. By getting some advice, you’ll feel confident you’ve made the right decisions.

We live and work local to you. We would be delighted to help you and your family achieve financial clarity and stability.

Alice Proctor

Investment Manager

Assistant Director

E: alice.proctor@brewin.co.uk

Kirsty Simpson

Financial Planner Divisional Director

E: kirsty.simpson@brewin.co.uk

46 Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8RY

T: 01962 798000

W: www.brewin.co.uk/our-offices/winchester

1 https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5d8a45c3e5274a0849b8d7bc/Table_7_Personal_Pensions_Annual_Allowance_Statistics.pdf

2 https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/personal-and-stakeholder-pensions-statistics

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.

Mr. Mac

Ever pondered how you drift off to sleep, perhaps with a snore or a murmured conversation? Well, there's a range of apps ready to unveil the mysteries of your slumber. Sleep Cycle is one example, delving into your sleep rhythms while detecting snoring, sleep-talking, coughing, and more. Other contenders like Sleep Tracker, SleepWatch, and Sleep Cycle are also available from Apple’s App Store. There is a catch, no outright purchases, only 7-day trials before commitment. Currently, I’m experimenting with Sleep Tracker, which entails an £18 annual subscription. You can read my thoughts in my next newsletter! Should you wish to subscribe, kindly drop me an email or text.

Another useful application is Home Contents that lets you create and control your home inventory. It is an app on your phone that you can catalogue your home contents room by room. Take photos, add details such as date of purchase, serial numbers, and cost. Great for cataloguing what you have especially if you are thinking of moving.

Consider using the messaging app Signal as an alternative to platforms owned by Meta (Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp) if you're concerned about your privacy. Signal offers similar functionality to WhatsApp but is independent from Meta, providing a secure and private communication platform.

Finally, this month; a reminder that there is no need to pay Microsoft a monthly or annual subscription when for Office 365 when for £18.99 (Windows) or £19.99 (Mac) you can purchase outright a legitimate single user licence. Contact me for further information and installation tips.

Andy – Mr Mac andy@mistermac.co.uk Tel: 07392 552592

WARNER AND RICHARDSON LLP ARE INDEPENDENT SOLICITORS LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC CITY OF WINCHESTER.

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• Financial planning

• Investment: discretionary & advisory management • Pension consolidation • Estate planning

Interested in fostering?

Step by Step are a fostering agency with a difference. Our funds support young people facing homelessness.

Foster with us to help even more young people.

stepbystepfostering.co.uk

Heavenly Voices – concert at Romsey Abbey on Saturday 8 June

Singers from Southampton

Philharmonic Choir and Southampton University

Philharmonic Choir (SU Phil) are looking forward to their début concert at Romsey Abbey, on Saturday 8 June.

The Abbey offers the perfect setting for a different repertoire from their usual fare of large-scale works with orchestra; an opportunity for a slightly smaller ensemble from the combined choirs to explore some of the most beautiful, smaller-scale choral pieces – both sacred and secular – of the past three centuries. Stirring anthems by Handel and Parry contrast with the drama of a Cornish folk song by Holst and the serene harmonies of Mozart, Elgar and Whitacre.

Taking the evening’s music-making into another dimension are the legendary Crispian Steele-Perkins, whose trumpet will soar alongside the choir's voices, Ian Le Grice at the organ and piano, and the crystalline voice of soprano soloist, Alex Kidgell, who is also a member of the celebrated choral ensemble, The Sixteen. David Gibson conducts.

HEAVENLY VOICES

Choral classics from the Baroque to the 21st century

ROMSEY ABBEY

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/musicinromsey

SATURDAY 8 JUNE 2024 7.30 p.m.

SOUTHAMPTON PHILHARMONIC CHOIR

southamptonphil.org registered charity 1050107

Programme highlights include:

with Southampton University Philharmonic Choir David Gibson (conductor)

∙ I was glad – Parry’s vibrant coronation anthem.

∙ Laudate Dominum – Mozart’s sublime expression of divine praise.

∙ Lux Aeterna – a moving adaptation of Elgar’s Nimrod, arranged for choir by John Cameron.

∙ The Blue Bird – Stanford’s exquisite and serene setting of Mary Elizabeth Coleridge’s poem.

∙ Let the bright Seraphim – the famous soprano aria from Handel’s oratorio, Samson.

∙ Trumpet Voluntary – John Stanley’s rousing and celebratory voluntary for organ, later arranged for organ and trumpet …and works by Bach, Handel, Haydn, Bruckner, Fauré, Holst, Barber, Gjeilo, Stopford, Whitacre and others.

The singers have already been thoroughly enjoying rehearsing this varied programme, which includes personal favourites for many of the choir. ‘I must have sung Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring hundreds of times as a boy chorister,’ says Alan (now a bass), ‘but it still brings a lump to my throat because it’s so beautiful.’ For Claire, an alto who first joined as a member of the SU Phil, and “graduated” to the SPC after university, Holst’s I love my love has become a new favourite: ‘I’m particularly enjoying the Holst, which is new to me – I love a good folk song.’ It all adds up to a concert not to be missed!

Tickets are available online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/musicinromsey or from Romsey Visitor Information Centre (tel 01794 512987).

For more information about this concert or about joining the choir next season, visit the SPC’s website at https://www.southamptonphil. org/web/

sunday 16 june

Dummer Down Farm hampshire

10:00AM - 4:00PM | Free Parking available

Tickets on sale at goodfestival. co.uk

PROUDLY SUPPORTING

Open Morning Friday 17 May

HELP A GOOD CAUSE

Good Festival supports The Hampshire Medical Fund Charity to purchase cutting-edge medical equipment for our local NHS hospitals.

To donate now, please text HMFGF10 (£10) or HMFGF20 (£20)

May & JUNE Festivals

IN WINCHESTER & SURROUNDING AREA

WINCHESTER MAYFEST 18 May

Winchester Mayfest is a great live music event with lots of Morris dancing and other displays right in the centre of Winchester. The Winchester Mayfest will be hosting lots of Morris dance teams as usual, with opportunities to have a go yourself, and towards the end of the day there will be a mass dance for audience participation.

A highlight of the day will be the show dances performed by many of the dance sides with the Mayor of Winchester in attendance. This will be followed by the mass dance for you the audience to join in. You could also get the chance to join in with some of the dance groups during the day at various venues.

The event is a festival and is called Mayfest simply because it is run in May each year. The Mayfest has been an event in Winchester for many years, under various guises, and we hope that the Winchester Mayfest will continue for many more years to come. So come to the Mayfest and see what it is all about!

Various locations throughout Winchester City Centre (see website for information). https://sites.google.com/site/winchmayfest

ALRESFORD WATERCRESS FESTIVAL 19 MAY

On Sunday the 19th May 2024 from 10am to 5pm, this nationally acclaimed annual festival will attract thousands of visitors to New Alresford in Hampshire, to celebrate watercress – the superb locally grown, delicious and versatile crop.

This beautiful market town becomes the site of a huge street festival. Over 80 stalls showcase the very best local food and drink producers. Others sell arts, crafts, jewellery and clothing, items for house, garden and much else besides.

Throughout the day, musicians and street performers entertain on the main stage, in St. John’s Church and on the streets. For the young, there are circus skills workshops, face painting, Punch & Judy shows, petting farm and much more.

Well-known chefs will demonstrate delicious watercress-inspired dishes. And more adventurous visitors can take up the challenge of the World Watercress Eating Championships – now in the Guinness Book of World Records.

For more information visit: www.watercressfestival.org

THE

CHEESE & CHILLI

FESTIVAL 1 - 2 JUNE

Get ready for a sizzling celebration of flavour and fun at the Cheese & Chilli Festival, the ultimate family-friendly extravaganza! Join us for a weekend packed with mouthwatering treats, exciting entertainment, and unforgettable experiences that will delight taste buds of all ages. Indulge in a delectable journey through an array of cheese and chilli delights, from creamy cheeses to fiery sauces, showcasing the best of local and regional produce. Test your spice tolerance in the thrilling Chilli Eating Competition or explore the Cheese Festival’s diverse range of artisanal offerings. But it’s not just about the food! Dive into a world of entertainment with wrestling madness, children’s activities including Punch & Judy and Crazy Golf, and live music performances to keep the energy high. Plus, don’t miss out on the chance to meet Kerry The Koala, our festival mascot, and join in the Bubble Party fun! With opportunities for both relaxation and excitement, the Cheese & Chilli Festival promises a weekend of laughter, indulgence, and family bonding. Join us as we spice up your summer with a festival experience like no other. Gather your loved ones and create lasting memories at the Cheese & Chilli Festival – where every bite is a taste of happiness!

The venue is conveniently located a brief stroll away from Winchester’s town center, approximately 0.5 miles. For attendees driving to the event, the nearest car park is St. Peter’s Car Park in Winchester. The event is situated beyond this car park, following the route past the skate park and by the bowls club. The precise three-word address for the location is: //factoring.prep.earphones. For more information visit: cheeseandchillifestival.com/winchester/

"The Language Academy is the home of language learning in Winchester" “We have the cure for monolingualism!”

Regular short courses to start learning or to improve French | Spanish | German | Italian & English as a Foreign Language Other languages

Language-related talks and events

Learning a language is a constant source of fascination. New words and expressions have a magic that has rubbed off their English equivalents. You become a different person, an actor. Interaction with native speakers of the language you are learning takes on a whole new dimension, as you meet on their, not your terms. Learning a language, while often frustrating and challenging, is probably the best thing you can do for your brain

Call: 01962 859700

Email: bookings@language-academy.uk Follow us on Instagram Q lang-acad or message us on Instagram Browse upcoming courses and book at www.language-academy.uk We are based in central Winchester, off the

2nd

Sixth Form Politics Students enjoy trip to the Houses of Parliament

Students from St Swithun’s sixth form politics class had a unique opportunity to witness democracy in action during a visit to the Houses of Parliament earlier this month.

The highlight of their visit was a meeting with the Meon Valley Member of Parliament, Flick Drummond, who engaged with the students in a lively discussion about the workings of government and the importance of political engagement.

The students were given a comprehensive tour of the historic Westminster Palace, including the House of Commons and the House of Lords. They had the chance to learn about parliamentary procedures and gain insight into the day-to-day responsibilities

of MPs. Additionally, the students had the opportunity to explore the historic Supreme Court chambers as part of their visit to the Houses of Parliament.

During their meeting with Flick Drummond MP, the students had the opportunity to ask questions about her role as their representative in Parliament, as well as about current political issues affecting their community and the nation as a whole. Mrs Drummond was impressed by the students' knowledge and enthusiasm for politics, and she expressed her hope that their visit would inspire them to become more actively involved in the democratic process.

Head of Politics Alex Wilson commented on the significance of the visit, saying, "Experiential learning opportunities like this are invaluable for our students. It's one thing to read about how Parliament works in a

textbook, but actually being here and seeing it brings the subject to life in a way that simply can't be replicated in the classroom."

In response to the students' questions and enthusiasm, Flick Drummond MP remarked, "It's always a pleasure to meet with young people who are interested in politics and eager to learn more about how government functions. I hope that today's visit has inspired these students to become more actively engaged citizens and perhaps even consider a career in public service in the future."

The visit to the Houses of Parliament provided the students with a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of the political process and to engage directly with their elected representatives.

Stswithuns.com

Events begin with the street cavalcade at 10am with jazz musicians, Morris dancers and local school children accompanying the Watercress King and Queen atop a horse and cart, distributing the first of the season’s watercress harvest to festival goers.

The Hampshire Farmers’ Market in Broad Street, are joined by others to create a massive food market plus the Cookery Demo unit is a great place to learn about how to use our local super food Watercress. In West Street and Station Road you

will find arts, crafts, jewellery and much else besides. There are activities for children of all ages, including circus skills workshops, face painting, kids roundabout, plus Spider Mountain.

Music is also high on the agenda, with jazz, blues, ukuleles and brass on the main stage and in St Johns church. Everyone is sure to enjoy the delights of the street entertainersfrom Morris sides to Brass bands. It’s a full day of free entertainment!

Mylo Art, Stockbridge

MYLO ART was founded by Kate Anniss in 2014 with the aim of bringing beautiful, decorative art to interiors. They have long established connections to an extensive network of artists who work in many different styles and media. Mylo’s HQ is at Meadow, a combined gallery, coffee shop and event space housed in a wonderful, light Georgian townhouse in Stockbridge. Meadow’s ethos is one of collaboration and creativity and they are renowned for hosting imaginative and inspiring events and workshops. Recent highlights include an evening in conversation with Edward Bulmer and a planting design workshop from RHS Chelsea sward-winning garden designer Lottie Delamain. Mylo’s curation of art hangs in the gallery room and throughout the building.

May sees the return of Mylo’s annual Summer Art Show (10 May-14 June). This year the gallery will be showcasing artists they have worked with for the past decade as well as exciting and dynamic new artists. The collection of over 100 paintings, collages, ceramics, original prints and drawings will be hung in the gallery room and throughout their beautiful home at Meadow.

This year, to celebrate their 10 year anniversary, Mylo has collaborated with the Interiors Collective, to bring together art and design in a 3 day pop-up, throughout the top floor of Meadow (15-17 May). The Interiors Collective have curated an inspiring selection of furniture and home accessories from some of the best interior designers and artisan makers. Brands include Kate Guinness Design, Sarah Vanrenen, Tate & Darby Rugs and SARAH.K homewares.

More events to look forward to include a pop-up from clothing brand Day Dress (5-8 June) led by Gabby Deeming. The collection is focused on the art of block printing on the softest cotton, is stitched in original patterns and hand block printed in Jaipur by a team of skilled artisans. Molly Mahon will be hosting a block printing workshop (6 June) and Gabby will join her to give a talk on Inspired Design followed by a gallery supper by Meadow on the evening of 6 June.

meadowstockbridge.com myloart.co.uk

Theatre, Shows & Concerts

Chesil Street, Winchester, SO23 0HU www.chesiltheatre.org.uk

Bronte

Written by Polly Teale and directed by Sarah Jacobs. Branwell Bronte returns home in disgrace. It is 1845 and while he descends into alcoholism and self-loathing his three sisters write. Working within the confines of the isolated parsonage, Charlotte, Emily and Anne enter the imagined world of their fictional characters, who come to disturb their creators. To book visit: https://www.ticketsource. co.uk/whats-on/winchester/chesiltheatre/bronte/e-mmzpmz

15 Kings Walk, Winchester, SO23 8AF www.thenutshellwinchester.com

The Nutshell Jazz Club - Join us on the third Thursday of every month for an evening of Jazz, delicious food and drinks a plenty in an intimate cabaret style setting. In partnership with Winchester Jazz Festival and Alex Western-King we will host some of the UK’s best Jazz musicians on the third Thursday of every month. Pizza served by Proven Slice. This month come along and see Charlie Pyne. For

more information and booking visit: www.thenutshellwinchester.com/ shows-and-events/the-nutshell-jazzclub-may

Monday 6 May

From 7.30pm

Ruth Theodore See Ruth Theodore before she goes, to celebrate the release of her highly anticipated 5th studio record Ruth and her knock out band are back on the road in the UK in May. For tickets visit: www.wegottickets.com/ event/613843

Adam Beattie & Fiona Beven (Double Bill)

Tuesday 28 May

From 7.30pm

Monday 13 May

From 6.30pm

The Scottish trio have amassed a global following. Wielding instruments that have rarely seen the likes of their music, Mohsen Amini (concertina), Benedict Morris (violin) and Charlie Galloway (guitar) have gathered major awards for their explosively energetic sound. For tickets visit: www.arcwinchester. org.uk/booking?id=761401

Trailblazer By Barbara Leigh Smith Bodichon

9 The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

The Beatles by Candlelight

From 8am to 10pm Saturday 11 May

Doors open 6.45pm

Featuring a cast of West End singers and epic live band, ‘Come Together’ for a ‘Magical Mystery Tour’, jam packed with over 40 Beatles hits, as you have never heard them before! This incredible show features best loved songs including ‘Help!’, ‘Hey Jude’, ‘Let it Be’, ‘All You Need Is Love’, ‘Yesterday’ and many more, performed at the beautiful Winchester Cathedral, by candlelight. So, after a ‘Hard Days Night’, grab your ‘Ticket to Ride’, and join us as we ‘Twist and Shout’ the night away at this euphoric sing-along spectacular! For more information and booking visit: www. winchester-cathedral.org.uk/event/ the-beatles-by-candlelight/

57 Hyde Street, Winchester, SO23 7DY www.hydetavern.co.uk

For this tour, songwriter/fingerstyle guitarist Beattie will be double headlining with multiplatinum Canadian-British singer-songwriter Fiona Bevan. Since meeting onstage in London, Beattie and Bevan have been singing in close harmony and accompanying each other on guitar, piano and double bass. For tickets visit: www.wegottickets.com/ event/604243

Jewry Street, Winchester, SO23 8SB www.arcwinchester.org.uk

Friday 10 May

From 6.30pm

Now in its 30th glorious year, Flamenco Express returns with another spectacle of raw, heartwrenching flamenco - featuring 'sizzling soloist' La Joaquina, guitar virtuoso Chris Clavo, the raw vocal power of flamenco custodian Antonio el Pola, and this month's guest star, Emilio Ochando, prize-winning choreographer hot from Madrid Festival and the Festival de Jerez. Tcikets from: www.arcwinchester.org.uk/event/ flamenco-express#dates

Thursday 23 May

From 6.00pm

The remarkable story of Barbara Leigh Smith Bodichon, the unknown Victorian woman who changed the world. Jane Robinson has a proven talent for finding unsung heroines behind the scenes of history. This time she has discovered a hidden gem. Victorian Barbara Leigh Smith Bodichon opened many of the doors we step through as modern women, unaware of her part in changing our world. For tickets visit: www.seetickets.com/event/ trailblazer-a-talk-by-jane-robinson/ the-arc/2965261

Mark Thomas: Gaffa Tapes: Warm Up

Friday 24 May

From 7.00pm

Join Mark as he tries out material for his brand-new show. Jokes, rants, politics, play and the occasional sing song. If you don’t know what he does ask your parents. Tickets from: www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=828201

Continued on page 28

Flamenco Express

Talisk

WINCHESTER BRASSERIE

In 1917, Abel Giandellini opened a small restaurant in the heart of London’s theatreland. His aim, to provide fine cuisine for cultured palates, and so The Ivy was born.

Guests were greeted by a sea of impeccably dressed attendants, and the air was filled with the sounds of live music and the clinking of crystal glasses. The menu, a culinary masterpiece, showcased the finest ingredients and innovative dishes, setting a new standard for upscale dining. The Ivy quickly established itself as the go-to destination for those seeking a taste of glamour and refinement. Over 100 years later, The Ivy Collection continues to welcome guests around the UK, celebrating

their unique history with the sensational cuisine, fabulous interiors, and welcoming, vibrant atmosphere.

The Ivy Winchester Brasserie, located in the heart of the city offers sophisticated and friendly all-day dining to both residents and visitors alike. The brasserie’s all-encompassing menus offer a wide selection of British classics and internationally inspired dishes, from the iconic shepherd’s pie to chicken Milanese and Champagne afternoon tea.

This Spring, discover the 1917 menu, two courses for £19.17 updated with seasonal classics, that unlocks a time capsule of flavours that have graced tables at The Ivy for over a century, as well as favourite dishes created to cater for all tastes from throughout the restaurant’s history.

Start with Scottish smoked haddock and salmon fish cake, served with a shaved fennel and dill salad,

horseradish and mustard dressing, before enjoying the iconic Ivy Shepherd’s Pie with slow-braised lamb and beef for a true Ivy experience.

For our vegetarian guests, the Buffalo mozzarella, baby tomatoes, sun-dried peppers & black olives as a more recent addition, with its green pesto and pine nuts an instant hit, followed by a fresh and zingy Feta and heritage tomato salad, pressed watermelon with avocado, green olives, pistachio nuts and salsa verde. Elevate your experience and add a dessert, such as the Classic frozen berries, with yoghurt sorbet and white chocolate sauce or Hazelnut and dark chocolate sundae for £5.00.

The Ivy Winchester also promises to transform your Wednesday evenings with the soothing sounds of a live jazz performance. Unwind over dinner or cocktails made by our resident mixologists and experience the perfect harmony of music and cuisine. Join us in celebrating the talent of Wendy Allen and Friends on the final Wednesday of the month, starting at 8:00pm.

A celebration of the rich history and enduring appeal of The Ivy, inviting guests to savour the tastes that have stood the test of time.

The Ivy, where every dish tells a story, and every moment is a taste of history.

WINCHESTER BRASSERIE

Theatre, Shows & Concerts

Jewry Street, Winchester, SO23 8SB www.arcwinchester.org.uk

Tuesday 7 May

From 7.00pm

Poetry Platform

Winchester's Maddest Open Mic welcomes writers and audience of old and new to our celebration of words and all their joy. Tickets available from: railwayinn.pub/shows/poetryplatform/2024-05-07

The Nightingales + Ted Chippington

Wednesday 8 May

From 8.00pm

The Nightingales were formed from the ashes of the Prefects (The Clash’s ‘White Riot Tour’, John Peel sessions, Rough Trade records) and enjoyed cult status in the ’80’s. Tickets from: railwayinn.pub/shows/ the-nightingales-2024-05-08

Rob Wheeler + Sarah Rose

Thursday 9 May

From 8.00pm

Rob Wheeler is a singer songwriter from the northwest of England, with influences ranging from The Beatles to Bob Dylan and Nike Drake. Part UK-country, part alt-folk, Rob’s songs are 100% relatable and his hugely engaging performances are bursting with personality and energy. New album ‘Leave Tomorrow’

(release April 2024) is being recorded at RCA Studios in Nashville and Rob will be touring solo in the UK throughout May & June. Tickets from: railwayinn.pub/shows/robwheeler-2024-05-09

Edgar Broughton

Saturday 11 May

From 8.00pm

The legendary singer songwriter/ guitarist Edgar Broughton was a founder member of the Edgar Broughton Band, often labelled by music reviewers and critics as acid rock/proto-punk. The band were founded in 1968 and carried on initially right through to 1976 (with some chart success) and were an EMI signed artist. Very much part of the late 60’s and early 70’s underground scene the band were unique in that their political consciousness was very much to the fore. Heavily influenced by Captain Beefheart they were perhaps best known for their chant ‘Out demons , Out! Tickets from: https://railwayinn.pub/shows/edgarbroughton-2024-05-11

Raoul Eden + Sophia Djebel Rose

Tuesday 14 May

From 7.30pm

Raoul Eden is an instrumental guitarist in the spirit of John Fahey, Robbie Basho, Jack Rose and Daniel Bachman. His playing is deeply influenced by oriental music, Indian râga and classical lyricism but still rooted in dark primitive psychedelic blues. Tickets from: railwayinn.pub/ shows/raoul-eden-2024-05-14

Provincials + Guests

Friday 17 May

From 8.00pm

Provincials are a critically-acclaimed, weird pop band from Winchester. They have performed across the UK, including at the Purcell Room in London’s South Bank Centre, as well as Ronnie Scott’s and the Glastonbury Festival. They have been regularly played on BBC Radio 2, BBC Radio 6Music, BBC Radio 3’s Late Junction, Resonance FM and the Arts Desk. For tickets: https://railwayinn.pub/shows/ provincials-2024-05-17

Tribubu

Wednesday 22 May

From 7.30pm

Tribubu – a mix of strong words and a complex instrumental background, combines rumba and folk with blues and African beats. With realistic English and Spanish-language lyrics and dynamic, happy sounds, the quartet delights their listeners and ensures an extremely exuberant audience with their lively show. Rumba, country folk, African beat and blues are just a few of the styles through which Tribubu plays virtuoso. Tickets from: railwayinn. pub/shows/tribubu-2024-05-22

John Douglas (Trashcan Sinatras)

Thursday 30 May

From 8.00pm

At long last, fans and newcomers alike are treated to an intimate snapshot of the talent,charisma and depth of this celebrated Scottish indie songsmith. With this release comes the start of a new chapter in John Douglas’ creative life as he simultaneously looks back at a lifetime of musical adventures and accolades and moves forwards. Tickets from: railwayinn.pub/ shows/john-douglas-trashcansinatras-2024-05-30

Please note that this is just a selection of the events

happening at this venue for a complete listing of May events please visit: railwayinn.pub/ shows

St. James's Tavern 3-5 Romsey Rd, Winchester, SO22 5BE

Jazz Night with Cinnamon Jazz

Saturday 11 May

From 7.30pm

The Tavern's monthly jazz night, hosted by Cinnamon Jazz.

Acoustic Blues Night With Jon Walsh

Saturday 25 May

From 7.30pm

Enjoy your Saturday evening with live blues from Jon Walsh.

Winchester Rugby Club

North Walls Park, Hillier Way, Winchester, SO23 7SU

Wednesday 22 May

From 8.00pm

The Winchester Uke Jam meets on the 4th Wednesday of every month at The Winchester Rugby Club and all are welcome, regardless of ability. You don't have to be a uke player to join in. They welcome any stringed instrument or if you fancy playing a bit of percussion, having a sing or just want to listen then go along. Check their website for details: www.moonroller.com/ winchesterukejam.htm.

Please note that all information provided was correct at the time of print and not all events are included for the venues shown. For additional information visit the venues website.

Winchester Uke Jam

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Lady of the Stream

If I asked you to name a chalk stream fish, which one would you choose?

For many, the brown trout or Atlantic salmon will come to mind – the most famous fishy mascots of these rare freshwater habitats. But today we’re looking at another amazing member of the salmonid family: the European grayling. Or, to use its wonderfully romantic nickname, the ‘Lady of the Stream’.

The grayling belongs to the genus Thymallus – so named because its members exude a faint scent of thyme. Although widespread across Europe and native to England, this fish was not originally found in the Test and Itchen. Records suggest that it was introduced to these rivers in the early 19th and 20th centuries respectively, possibly by moving fish from the Hampshire Avon.

Ironically, grayling would later be routinely culled in many southern chalk streams, due to fears of them out-competing brown trout. This practice declined as studies showed key differences in the diet, growth, habitat,

and spawning behaviour of the two species. Today, grayling are particularly popular with anglers, as they can be pursued in the winter when brown trout are prohibited.

The grayling can be recognised by its glittering pewter scales and red-fringed dorsal fin. This ruby colour is much brighter in the males, especially during the breeding season. From March to May each year, they attempt to woo females with a vibrating dance. Fertilised eggs are nestled in the gravelly stream bed and – if all goes well – two to four weeks later, the water is filled with baby grayling!

After hatching, juveniles stick to the slower-flowing stream margins until they get large enough to swim further out. As they grow, their diet expands to include worms, insect larvae, and small crustaceans like freshwater shrimp. Grayling can gain twice the weight that trout and salmon manage in their first year, but end up a little smaller – the largest adults weigh around two kilograms.

Grayling need cool, clean, oxygen-rich water, in addition to areas of silt-free

gravel for spawning. If their homes aren’t healthy, then sadly they can struggle to thrive. To learn how the Watercress and Winterbournes scheme is helping grayling, brown trout, and other chalk stream species, visit hiwwt.org.uk/winterbournes. Our work is made possible by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Free Events

‘The Role of the River Keeper’ Often responsible for habitat management in fisheries, river keepers can play a crucial role in protecting our precious chalk streams. Online on 14th May at 7pm.

‘Tales from the Riverbank Literature Festival’

Join us in Andover, Whitchurch, Overton, and Alresford this June. Hear from amazing nature authors and get creative with writing workshops for children and adults.

Book your tickets at hiwwt.org.uk/ winterbournes.

Tales from the Riverbank Literature Festival

1st June, Alresford

2nd June, Whitchurch

4th June, Alresford

8th June, Andover

9th June , Overton

15th June, Overton

16th June, Whitchurch

19th June, Andover

22nd June, Andover

23rd June, Overton

26th June, Whitchurch

29th June, Alresford

Children’s Poetry Workshop

Nature Writing Workshop

Talk by Tom Moorhouse

Nature Writing Workshop

Children’s Poetry Workshop

Talk by Matt Gaw

Children’s Poetry Workshop

Talk by Lisa Schneidau

Children’s Poetry Workshop

Nature Writing Workshop

Talk by Amy-Jane Beer

Nature Writing Workshop

JUne & JULY Festivals

IN WINCHESTER

WINCHESTER BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL 7 - 8 JUNE

Welcome to Winchester Beer and Cider Festival 2024 . This year the festival will showcase up to 75 cask ales, featuring a range of high quality traditional ales, new and exciting craft ales, brewery collaborations, and one-off specials. This vast range of beers will also be matched by a range of real ciders and perry, a craft beer bar and a selection of bottled/canned beers - something to inspire and appeal to all tastes.

This year's festival will consist of four sessions:

Friday 7th June 11:30-16:00

Friday 7th June 18:00-22:30

Saturday 8th June 11:30-16:00

Saturday 8th June 18:00-22:30

To find out more about the festival, please follow us on facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ WinchesterBeerFestival). Winchester Beer and Cider Festival is run by volunteers from Southern Hampshire CAMRA.

Tickets are now on-sale online from our website: winchesterbeerfestival.camra.org.uk/2024/tickets/ All ticket prices include the festival programme and the festival’s commemorative glass. CAMRA members can claim £3 of free beer tokens (on presentation of a valid membership card).

Unlike other festivals organised by Southern Hampshire CAMRA, the venue prohibits food and drink being brought into the festival. The venue will be selling a range of food and soft drinks for consumption at the festival. www. winchesterbeerfestival.camra.org.uk

WINCHESTER UKULELE FESTIVAL 8 JUNE

The Winchester Ukulele Festival is back with top entertainment from some of the countries best ukulele players plus, workshops, 'The Splendid Strumalong', merchandise, great food and drink, and a whole load more.

The festival will be held in the grounds of Winchester Rugby Club, SO23 7SU on Saturday 8 June 2024. Come along and listen to: Warehouse of Theives, George Hich liffee (founder of the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britian), Ukulele Simon, Matt Hicks, Phil Doleman, Arlo Anwin, A D Cooke, The Hedge Inspectors, Tinf Roof Strollers, Mother Ukers, Anarchy in the Ukulele. Plus a spendid strumalong hosted by Mike Krabbers and Unplugthewood. In aid of Winchester Hospice. There will be workshops, a licenced bar, real ale, food stalls and merchandise.Tickets £38.00 (accompanied children under 12 free). Doors open at 9am - Main stage music starts at 12.30pm. For more information and to book tickets visit: www.winchesterukefest.co.uk

WINCHESTER HAT FAIR 5 TO 7 JULY

Hat Fair is the UK’s longest running festival of outdoor arts. Founded in 1974 by Jonathan Kay, Hat Fair inspires and is inspired by the people, heritage and public spaces within the city of Winchester. Their aim is to shine a light on the city, transforming the everyday into the extraordinary.

The festival takes place every year during the first weekend of July across the historic city of Winchester. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at each year’s festival, and best of all, it’s absolutely free to attend! Initially conceived as a busking festival, Hat Fair takes its name from the tradition of the audience showing their appreciation by putting money in the hat at the end of the show.

In 2013 Hat Fair became part of Live Theatre Winchester Trust, which also runs the Theatre Royal Winchester. Bringing together a historic theatre and an outdoor arts programme in creative collaboration has allowed us to develop our artistic ambitions, relishing the opportunities this presents for encouraging talent and championing quality arts. This years hat fair will be held from Friday 5 to Sunday 7th July - Entry is free. For more information visit: www.hatfair.co.uk

Hambrooks Landscaping

Creating beautiful gardens for over 50 years

Experience excellence at Hambrooks! With decades of expertise and personalised service, our tailored designs, landscaping and bespoke maintenance keep your garden thriving year-round. Explore our Garden Centre, Titchfield brimming with stunning display gardens and quality plants for endless inspiration. Experience the Hambrooks difference – where every aspect of your vision blossoms to life.

Common lawn problems

At this time of year, we begin to venture out into our gardens more often and become aware of how our lawns have coped over the winter months. We see plenty of lawn issues, lets take a look at what can be done.

Compaction

Healthy soil needs air spaces within it. Roots don’t grow in the soil; they grow in the gaps within. Gradually, over time, through regular use of your garden your lawn is likely to become compacted. Areas where your lawn is walked on more often are likely to show signs of poor grass growth and more often than not, this is due to the compaction below the surface. You’ll see this more often close to washing lines, the entrance to gates or where you have to walk over the lawn to access another area in your garden. It may be tempting to scatter grass seed on the surface, but unless the compaction issue is addressed, that new seed is going to struggle to establish as there is no space in the soil for its roots.

Compromised root development means the grass has limited access to moisture and nutrition, meaning compromised grass growth. In addition, the roots are responsible for a gaseous exchange with the atmosphere, without which your grass will be less healthy and more susceptible to disease and pest issues. If you want a lawn to be proud of, deal with the compaction in your lawn. Aeration of the lawn, at least annually, should make up part of your lawn care plan.

Dog Urine Burn

Since Covid lockdown, there are many more lawn owners that are now also dog owners. That increase in dog ownership has seen an increase of dog related lawn damage. The most common of which is scorching, and bare patches caused by dog urine. Urine is high in nitrogen. Used correctly, nitrogen is an essential lawn nutrient and good for your grass. As anyone who has spilt lawn fertiliser on their grass will know, a concentration of nitrogen will kill grass. And this is what we are seeing with dog urine burns. The high concentration of nitrogen burns the grass and then the lower concentration around the edge creates a halo of lush growth – great for drawing attention to the unsightly burn!

The best way to deal with this is prevention. If you can train your dog to pee elsewhere then that’s ideal. If not, try flushing the area with water after your pet has relieved itself. This isn’t always practical,

and you may need to adopt strategies to repair these bare areas. Raking, spiking, and seeding is a good way forward. Another great tip is to grow some small plant pots of soil and grass seed. When the burns appear, you can dig out the area, using an empty plant pot as a template and then pop the new grass in to fill the gap.

Insect Damage

There are two main groups of insects that cause lawn issues – leather jackets and chafer grubs. Both live in the soil, both eat the grass plant, both cause major, unsightly damage. The pesticide used to control these insects has been withdrawn and therefore we are seeing increased numbers. Turf growers are struggling to supply pest-free turf and we see major problems in lawns that have been recently re-laid. To avoid this problem, if you are thinking of replacing your lawn, it’s far better to establish it from seed than to bring in new turf and possibly bring in lawn destroying insects too. Check with a lawncare professional if you suspect insect damage issues and they will be able to advise the best way forward.

Lawn Treatments

All living things need the right nutrition to remain healthy. Your lawn is no different. Without the correct seasonal nutrition, grass growth may be weak and the plants more susceptible to pests and diseases. In addition, regular weed and moss control will ensure your lawn looks its best all year long. Many lawn owners, who choose to apply their own lawn treatments, soon realise that shop-bought products are often not as effective as they would like. In addition, they tend to be expensive and don’t come in pack sizes to fit the size of your lawn – resulting in a shed full of part used boxes of ineffective products. It’s important not to under or over-dose a lawn, so the right applicator should be used, and that applicator should be calibrated too. Many people realise that the convenience and value offered by professional lawn treatments far outweighs shop bought alternatives and guarantees a beautiful lawn you can be proud of all year.

Ian Kenyon sits on the committee of the UK Lawn Care Association and owns Shrekfeet Independent Lawncare. He is always happy to offer friendly, professional advice and help: T: 01962 460146 www.shrekfeet.com

DPGARDEN DESIGN

Winchester Area Tourist Guides Association

The Winchester Tourist Guides have launched their exciting new programme of regular and themed walking tours for 2024 with a photocall outside the award winning Winchester Visitor Information Centre where all the tours will start from.

This year’s Themed Tours include Saxon Winchester with the opportunity to discover Winchester’s important role from the time of King Alfred to 1066, St. Giles’ Hill which will explore the Bronze Age settlement, a great medieval fair and the growth of a prestigious suburb, and the return of an old favourite the Chesil Railway and tunnel tour on three dates including a summer evening. In the school holidays there are updated Children’s Tours that fill an hour with weird and wonderful stories of Winchester.

Another popular tour which is also on three dates this year is Hidden Waterways. This walk explores the many hidden brooks and streams which run through the city. George Shepherd’s Regency Winchester tour takes place on a midweek summer evening in August and features Shepherd’s beautiful watercolours and compares his views with what we see today. For Regency fans there is also a Jane Austen tour on the Saturday closest to the anniversary of her death in the city in 1817.

A walk on the theme of Crime and Punishment takes place in July and offers a whistle stop tour through 1000 years of crime, law and punishment with tales of trials, tribulations, treason and transportation as well as visiting many sites of detention in Winchester. Other tours this summer include Medieval Jewish Winchester about the flourishing Jewish community prior to their expulsion in 1290 and Royal Connections which looks at the many links the city has had with royalty since Saxon times.

The popular adults only Halloween tour returns on 31st October, with one of the Children’s Tours taking place in October half term close to Halloween. This Christmas there is an opportunity to tour Abbey House, the official residence of the Mayor of Winchester, and finish the visit with mulled wine, mince pies and a chat with the Mayor.

In addition, find out the interesting stories behind familiar places in Winchester with one of the Guides’ regular tours of the city’s highlights. These take place all year round, come rain or shine, on Saturdays and weekdays too from April to Christmas. Sunday tours take place from May to the end of August and during the period of the Christmas Market. These tours leave at 11am and 2pm from Winchester

Visitor Information Centre. Please check the Winchester Tourist Guides’ website for full details, prices and tour times. Tickets can be booked in advance via www. winchestertouristguides.com and can be bought on the day from the Winchester Visitor Information Centre at Winchester Guildhall, The Broadway, 01962 840500.

The new programme leaflet can be collected from the Winchester Visitor Information Centre and other venues in the area. Use the QR code to go direct to the website for all the details, times and prices. The Winchester Tourist Guides will also be posting regularly on Facebook and Instagram – follow WINCHESTER TOURIST GUIDES.

Private tours are available for groups of all sizes and needs. This year’s tour themes and others can be booked as private tours –enquire at the Winchester Visitor Information Centre. Winchester’s official tourist guides have been guiding in Winchester for nearly 40 years. All guides have undergone rigorous training to be Blue or Green Badge Guides and are accredited by the Institute of Tourist Guiding.

For enquiries and requests to stock the leaflet please contact publicity@ winchestertouristguides.com

Improve Your Lawn Now...

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We also provide full lawn makeovers, over-seeding, and top-dressing. Hard surface weed control for gravel or paved drives, paths, and patios. Call now to arrange your first treatment visit and FREE full lawn analysis survey. Our work is fully guaranteed, check our website for more information.

National Garden Scheme - Hampshire

More news from the forthcoming NGS, fully funded, Show Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show. One of the outstanding features of the garden is the Shed. To call this structure a Shed is little disingenuous - it will be a place of peace, calm and sanctuary. After its staring role at Chelsea it will eventually move to its final home as part of the Chelsea Garden which will be re-constructed at the Maggie’s Centre (an NGS Beneficiary) at Addenbrooks Hospital, Cambridge, for use by the gardeners, cancer patients and their families - a place to relax, have a cup of tea and maybe cake! You can read more about the materials and construction on the NGS website (ngs.org.uk) click on the Lifestyle section. As I write this there are still tickets available for our Bonsai Experience Garden in Fleet.

STREAMSIDE TREES - BONSAI EXPERIENCE

43A Basingbourne Road, Fleet, GU52 6TG

Visitors can enjoy a guided tour around the 140 ft wildlife garden with bonsai nursery, then enjoy an informal bonsai demonstration from Julia, an enthusiast who also holds 'Create a Bonsai' hands-on experiences and is a member of bonsai societies. Finally relax with refreshments and Q & A. Starter trees will be available to purchase. Tour & Demonstration: Thursday 9th May 10am and 1pm: Sunday 25th May 10am and 1pm: The tours starts promptly at 10am and 1pm: Admission: £20.00 per adult. Pre-booking only - simply click on the above link. Limited tickets available. Price includes refreshments. For any clarification contact streamsidetrees@gmail.com

NOW FOR A SEASONAL FAVOURITECRAWLEY GARDENS

Crawley, Winchester, SO21 2PR

Silk Services are renowned for their extensions, conversions, full refurbishments and renovations as well as providing a top quality professional, personal service at an affordable price www

Opening: Thursday 20th & Sunday 23rd June 2pm to 5.30pm

Admission: Combined for 4 gardens - £10.00 children free. Cashless Payments available. Refreshments: Home-made teas in Village Hall.

Crawley is a pretty period village nestling in chalk downland with thatched houses, C14 church and village pond. Bay Tree House has bulbs, wildflowers, a Mediterranean garden, pleached limes, a rill and contemporary borders of perennials and grasses. Little Court is a 3 acre country garden with carpets of spring bulbs, herbaceous borders and a large meadow. Paige Cottage is a 1 acre traditional English garden surrounding a period thatched cottage (not open) with bulbs and wild flowers in spring and old climbing roses in summer. Tanglefoot has colour themed borders, herb wheel, kitchen garden, Victorian boundary wall supporting trained fruit and a large wildflower meadow.

Best Wishes to you all - Pat Beagley (Head of Publicity)

National Garden Scheme - Hampshire - pat.beagley@ngs.org.uk

Slow Roasted Tuscan Pork

INGREDIENTS

(SERVES 6-8)

FOR THE PORK:

2.5kg pork leg joint

3 tbsp olive oil

4 cloves garlic cut into slivers

2 tbsp fennel seeds

2 tsp dried chilli flakes

2 tbsp dried oregano

2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped

FOR THE MINT CAPER SAUCE:

2 tbsp tiny capers

2 shallots

20g fresh mint, stems removed

1 clove garlic

3 tbsp balsamic vinegar

4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

METHOD

Prepare the Pork - Preheat the oven to 140˚C. Take a sharp knife and cut small slits into the meat. Insert the slivers of garlic all over the meat. Mix together the herbs and chilli. Rub the pork roast with 1 tbsp of olive oil and salt and pepper. In a very large frying pan, sear the meat on all sides until browned. Rub the remaining oil over the pork and then roll in the herbs. Arrange on a roasting rack over a roasting tin. Place in the hot oven and cook for about 4-5 hours.

The meat will be tender and fall apart when the string is removed. Slice the pork and place on a platter with rosemary sprigs and other fresh herbs. Serve with sauce and some roasted or mashed potatoes.

PREPARE THE SAUCE

Finely chop the capers, shallots, garlic and mint and place in a small bowl. Add the vinegar, oil, salt and pepper and a large pinch of sugar. Mix well and pour into a serving jug.

MAY HAMPSHIRE FARMERS MARKETS

Hamble - Sat 4th, Alresford - Sat 4th, Petersfield - Sun 5th, Romsey - Sun 5th, Alton - Sat 11th, Winchester - Sun 12th, Emsworth - Sat 18th, Alresford - Sun 19th, Southsea - Sun 19th, Ringwood - Sat 25th, Winchester - Sun 26th For more information visit: www.hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk

At Town and Country, we take pride in ensuring every client receives the best customer service, from the informative and knowledgeable sales process through to the extensive after sales care.

Our boutique showroom showcases some of the finest kitchen and bathroom furniture available, with a strong emphasis on UK and European manufacturing. Bathroom manufacturers on display include Ambiance Bain, Kudos, Roper Rhodes, Tissino and Arte Form, with Porcelanosa and Ca’Pietra tiling throughout the showroom. Our kitchens are expertly crafted by Schuller, one of the largest German kitchen manufacturers, and Mackintosh, their products are made exclusively in Britain. Both have an extensive and inspiring collection ranging from the contemporary to the more traditional.

Please contact us regarding our complementary design and quotation service, we look forward to hearing from you.

Visit Town & Country

8 The High Street, Botley, Southampton, Hampshire, SO3O 2EA

Telephone: 01489 536187

Email: sales@town-and-country.co.uk www.town-and-country.co.uk

NEW SHOWROOM FORDISPLAYS 2024

London Fire Brigade Heroes Rescue Eight Kittens: A Heart-warming Tale of Compassion

In a heart-warming display of compassion, the London Fire Brigade recently came to the rescue of eight helpless kittens found abandoned in a guinea pig cage at the side of the road. This act of kindness not only saved the lives of these vulnerable furballs but also paved the way for a brighter future for all of them.

The story behind this rescue begins with the diligent efforts of Isaac, one of the firefighters who responded to the call. Living locally, Isaac was aware of the work carried out by the Feline Friends Rescue (FFR) in Winchester thanks to a previous encounter a few years ago.

Back then, FFR had stepped in to assist with a feral cat and her kittens on Isaac's relatives' farm, leaving a lasting impression of their dedication to feline welfare.

Isaac also brought a furry friend to FFR's doorstep "Fireman Sam," a tiny bundle of black fluff, was discovered by firefighters during a "shout" and was promptly entrusted into the care of FFR. Today, Fireman Sam is living the good life in Alresford, thanks to the tireless efforts of the firefighters and the compassionate team at FFR.

Back to the present rescue, despite the efforts of the London Fire Brigade, no local London rescue centre was able to accommodate the eight kittens, highlighting the critical role played by organisations like FFR in providing sanctuary and care for abandoned animals.

Now under the loving care of FFR, the kittens are awaiting vaccination, neutering, and eventual rehoming.

In a heart-warming twist, some of the kittens are being adopted by their very own rescuers, forging a bond born from a shared experience of compassion and rescue. For the remaining kittens, plans are underway to find them loving homes within the local community. Meet the eight adorable bundles of joy: four girls named Cinders, Flare, Blaze, and Sparkle, and four boys named Ash, Sparky, Chas, and Dave. As we celebrate this remarkable rescue, let us also remember the countless other animals in need of a helping hand. Presently at our rescue centre we have available Pumpkin & Patch, Ziggy, Luna, Mouse, we also have a couple of pregnant feral cats!

We are always full to brim and constantly get emails of further cats needing to be rehomed. Donations really do help us to keep going! We have a donation button on our website and we would be extremely grateful for whatever you can give, we also have an amazon wish list set up if you would prefer to send a physical item.

Together, through acts of kindness both big and small, we can make a world of difference for those who cannot speak for themselves.

Donate using paypal QR code

Or via our website https://www.felinefriendsrescue.org.uk/ category/donate

Innovative teaching earns Winchester two nominations at accounting awards

The University of Winchester has earned two award nominations at the PQ Magazine Awards thanks to the innovative lecturers on its Accounting and Finance programme. Winchester has been shortlisted as Public Sector Accountancy College of the Year and Senior Lecturer Lim Teoh is up for the Lecturer of the Year award.

The College of the Year nomination emphasised the Accounting and Finance team’s promotion of student employability, practical real-world learning, commercial awareness and digital skills. This strong focus on employability is reflected in the University of Winchester’s Top 10 ranking in the UK for graduates in employment or further study (HESA Graduate Outcomes data 2023), with the Accounting and Finance programme achieving 95 per cent employability.

Winchester’s Accounting and Finance programme also scored highly in the 2023 National Student Survey (NSS) where it received a 100 per cent positive response to the questions: ‘How good are teaching staff at explaining things?’ and ‘How well have teaching staff supported your learning?”.

Courses also received 90 per cent plus positive responses to questions concerning the fairness of marking, access to learning resources and academic support.

Senior Lecturer in Accounting Lim Teoh has won numerous awards during his 20-year academic career and in 2022 he was recognised with a prestigious National Teaching Fellowship for his outstanding impact on student outcomes and teaching in higher education. An expert in taxation, he has brought the subject to life for his students with clever use of digital technology. In one exercise Lim uses a mobile phone app that places students in a virtual café where they act as waiting staff. If they answer the questions correctly, they can restock food to serve their customers and win reward points.

“Learning can occur, even in complex subjects like taxation, if learners are inspired and supported with engaging learning environments,” said Lim. “I’ve found the use of digital technology an effective way of engaging the digital generation.”

Sarah Moore-Williams Dean of the Faculty of Business and Digital Technologies and Director of the University of Winchester Business School, who is a Chartered Certified Accountant, said: “These nominations highlight the excellence of our teaching in Accounting Finance and the imagination and dedication of our staff.

“Accounting and Finance is key part of any business, and the University is proud of its record in preparing highly confident and competent graduates to enter this sector.”

Dr Sabine Bohnacker-Bruce, Head of Department for Economics, Accounting and Finance, said: “These award nominations recognise the commitment to students and innovative teaching by the academics in our Accounting and Finance team.

“Following on from our excellent NSS scores, this is testimony that we are delivering high-quality teaching which prepares our students for the world of work.”

The winners were announced during a ceremony held at Lio London, the former Café de Paris, in the West End on the evening of 22 April.

To find out more about Accounting and Finance at the University of Winchester, visit BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance 2024University of Winchester

Winchester 3K and 5K Race for Life

Join forces or go solo

You can take part in any Race for Life event as an individual or a group to raise money for life-saving research. Walk, jog or run together in a group or go solo at your own pace, or lead the way as a Group Leader and get family, friends and colleagues involved! However you choose to get muddy, you’re helping to beat cancer.

About the 3k event

At just over 2 miles, 3k is ideal for families or groups having a go at their first Race for Life. It's a fun, achievable event for everyone – and an unforgettable day out. There's no pressure to finish in a certain time. Walk, jog or run or make your way around the course however suits you and help fund life-saving cancer research.

Sunday 19 May 2024

£14.99 Aged 16 and over

£10.00 Children, under 6s free Minimum fundraising target: £50

About the 5k event

The 5k is an achievable distance and a good first challenge for most people. At just over 3 miles it can take about an hour to walk on average, but there's no pressure to finish in a certain time. Go at your own pace to help fund life-saving cancer research.

Sunday 19 May 2024

£15.99 Aged 16 and over £11.00 Children, under 6s free Minimum fundraising target: £50

Course Information

The start is on grass in North Wall Recreation Ground, near River Park Leisure Centre. The 3k follow the majority of the 5k route, with a shorten signposted on the day. The course is mainly on grass and tarmac paths around the fields of North Walls Recreation Ground and Winchester Rugby Club. The route does include a small hill incline once partipcants have passed Nuns Walk. The finish is on grass in North Wall Recreation Ground, near River Park Leisure Centre.

There will not be any water refill stations along the course so if you require water during the event, please remember to bring your own reusable water bottle already filled up. A Scottish Power water refill station will be available to use at the finish.

Please arrive 30 to 45mins before your start time so that you are prepared and ready to go on time. Our courses have been measured with a measuring wheel. This is the most accurate measurement method and may not always match.

Warm up with others

Shake off any pre-Race nerves and get moving with our fun warm-up session just before your event.

Supporters and spectators welcome

Bring along as many supporters as you like to cheer you on! We’ve got things for everyone to do, check out the Location section above to see what’s happening on the day.

Soak up the atmosphere

After you've completed the course, stay on and celebrate with other participants, friends and family with a picnic in the park.

We want as many families as possible to join Race for Life. A discount of 20% will automatically be applied to your order if you purchase two adult tickets & two child tickets OR one adult ticket & three child tickets. Discount applies to a maximum of 4 tickets.

To book your place on the 3K run visit: https://events.cancerresearchuk.org/ registration/select/wave/N24L1WW01

To book your place on the 5K run visit: https://events.cancerresearchuk.org/ registration/select/wave/N24LSHW01

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ivy, boost the numbers and types of butterflies, particularly in urban areas and near farmland

• The research is great news for gardeners and non-gardeners alike, proving the free and easy action of letting an area go wild can make a positive impact for butterflies

Letting parts of your garden grow wild with long grass can increase butterfly numbers by up to 93% and attract a wider range of species, according to new research from leading wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation.

The study, published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, provides the first scientific evidence that having long grass in your garden increases butterfly abundance and diversity. Creating such wild spaces may help to reverse the decline of these beautiful insects.

Undertaken by Butterfly Conservation scientists Dr Lisbeth Hordley and Dr Richard Fox, the research analysed butterfly sightings from more than 600 gardens across the UK, collected by members of the public over six years through the charity's Garden Butterfly Survey. The results show that gardens with long grass had a significantly higher number of butterflies recorded, with a greater variety of species, than those without.

Importantly, the biggest benefits of these wild spaces were found in urban areas and intensively farmed landscapes. In highly

these gardens had a space that was allowed to go a little wild, with grass growing long, it would make a huge difference for butterflies and moths, providing spaces for them to feed, breed and shelter.

While the research specifically studied gardens, the benefits to butterflies of long grass and wild spaces are likely to extend beyond the garden gate. Public green spaces such as parks, school grounds, allotments, and road verges, could also provide vital spaces for wildlife, and enable more people to see more butterflies if allowed to go a little wild.

Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation and co-author of the study, said: “Nature is in crisis; 80% of butterflies have declined since the 1970s, so we need to take action now to protect them. We wanted to be able to give tried and tested gardening advice that will benefit butterflies as we know lots of people want to help. This study proves, for the first time, that allowing a patch of grass to grow long will attract more butterflies into your garden.”

The study also found that the presence of flowering ivy in gardens increased the number of certain butterfly species, such as the Holly Blue, Red Admiral and Comma, which use ivy as a breeding habitat or nectar source.

wild spaces by allowing a patch of grass to grow long, or a border edge to go wild is free and easy to do, and can significantly boost butterfly numbers, especially in urban and agricultural settings where they are most under pressure. The benefits of each individual wild space are small, but if thousands of people get involved the boost to butterflies could be huge.

“Whether you have a large garden, a small patch of grass, a community or school space, or a balcony or window box, anyone, anywhere can help. We hope that our Wild Spaces programme will inspire people across the UK to take action and help to create a national network of butterfly-friendly habitats.”

Wild Spaces can be created by anyone, anywhere – from gardens to shared community spaces, balconies, terraces, or patios. No matter the size or location, every Wild Space can contribute to the recovery of butterfly populations and support biodiversity.

To create your own Wild Space visit www.wild-spaces.co.uk

Wrinkles

© Lucia Foster-Found 2024 www.luciafosterfound.com

Her dressing table and mirror now resided near the bedroom window, affording her a pleasing view of the pear tree. This was, however, a fringe benefit and not why she’d dragged her furniture noisily across the floor.

No, no, no.. She was there for the light; the glorious, celebrated, natural daylight.

But, as she contemplated her reflection in the mirror, now bathed in daylight (it transpired) that was actually not glorious at all, but unforgiving and harsh, she came literally face-to-face with the roadmap of her life. Every laugh, every frown, each unhappy episode and hilarious occasion was there; forever etched.

Turning away from the mirror-mirror-not-on-the-wall (not mentioning anyone fairest at all), she saw there’d been an overnight frost and the blades of grass were grey-dusted, white-edged and crisp.

‘A frost in May’ - she recalled the phrase from some cobwebby recess of her memory. Wasn’t that an idiom for something showing promise, yet struck down before it’d reached its full potential? Or had she dreamed that one up, along with ‘no peace for the wicket’ which she used to think was to do with poor batting?

Good job the pear blossom had arrived early this year and was over and done. And seemed she’d been right not to plant out her rather titchy geranium plugs just yet. Himself appeared as if by magic, much like the shopkeeper in Mr Ben. “I heard a noise - what are you doing?”

“Looking at my wrinkles. They’re even more many-and-various than I had realised. I think I might move my dressing table back into the shadows.”

“Not that I’ve noticed any wrinkles,” he said with a wink, “but perhaps you should celebrate you’ve lived long enough to earn some.”

Himself was wise. She loved that about him. Mostly. There was that time she’d insisted on buying the absolutely beautiful, hugely expensive, unbelievably uncomfortable settee. Himself had sat on it. He’d laid on it. He’d walked around it. And then he’d stood back and wisely pronounced it a ‘looking-at sofa’. And he’d been annoyingly right; when she eventually sold it on, it’d hardly been used..

But mostly, such as now, his wisdom made her adjust her perspective. He was as right as he’d been about the blasted sofas. Absolutely. She could have been struck down like a frost in May – or anytime from her January to her

September (where she felt she currently resided). She was indeed lucky to have wrinkles.

But there were other wrinkles. Good wrinkles. Helpful wrinkles. Picked up along the way like the ones on her face, were the little wrinkles of life.. The shortcuts, the side benefits, the handy tips - like cooking a chopped potato in food you’d over-salted, or rubbing a walnut into the scratch on a wooden table and watching it vanish. Although Instagram et al referred to them as ‘hacks’, she’d always called them ‘wrinkles’.

‘Hacks’, to her, brought visions of world-weary journalists. ‘Hacks’ chased down headline stories and employed dubious and underhand methods to get them. ‘Hacks’ stood in darkened doorways on rain-slick city streets, lighting up cigarettes, turning up the collars of their raincoats and pulling down the brims of their trilbys. ‘Hacks’ waited in the shadows to catch the suspect/witness/victim unawares and elicit an unguarded quote or a noholds-barred exposé…

Coming out of her reverie and reflecting that she’d been watching far too many old black-and-whites on Talking Pictures, she decided that more contemporary viewing might be in order. She’d take Himself out on a date –she’d heard that dating your husband was considered a ‘life hack’ too. Well, in any event, it was a good idea. She’d use her online video subscription; two cinema tickets for a tenner. Also, her supermarket vouchers; worth double their value in certain restaurants. Wrinkles..

Later that day, she moved her dressing table a little further from the cruel and uncompromising light from the window. She got ready for her date, adopting a ‘what the eye doesn’t see, the heart doesn’t grieve about’ approach to applying her make-up and felt more youthful already.

In town they watched a newly-released blockbuster. It was in colour, set in the 21st century. Not a trilby in sight. And nobody, but nobody, smoked.

Emerging from the dark of the cinema and walking towards the welcoming lights of the pizzeria, Himself took her hand as they crossed the road. As they ordered their food, he observed, “This is nice.”

It was nice. And, courtesy of the wrinkles, nice and cheap, she mused.

And as for those other wrinkles: the earned wrinkles, the weather wrinkles, the laughter-and-tears wrinkles, the inevitable evidence of a life lived wrinkles.. what of them?

As Himself held her hand again across the table, in the soft, forgiving candlelight, she gave no thought to those wrinkles at all…

Charters Winchester is delighted to sponsor the third edition of this run, supporting the Compton School Association.

Join us at our stand at the start of the race on Compton Street (Glebe Field, opposite Compton All Saints’ Church), Compton, Winchester, SO21 2AS.

Don’t forget to participate in our ‘Guess the House Price’ contest for a chance to win a delicious fresh produce hamper from Basil Leaf Deli in Winchester! Scan me register your place

Amy Steele

“My partner and I have had nothing but positive experiences dealing with Charters since we moved in nearly six months ago now. They have been friendly and frequently communicative with us from day one.” Nothing but

Call us today for your FREE market appraisal Lettings: 01962 830881 | Sales: 01962 830880 | Winchester@chartersestateagents.co.uk Winchesterlettings@chartersestateagents.co.uk Scott D, Trustpilot.com

N O N Y K E R R - S M I L E Y

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O u r e t h o s i s t o t a i l o r o u r s e r v i c e t o o u r c l i e n t s '

i n d i v i d u a l n e e d s , w h i c h i s n e v e r o n e s i z e f i t s a l l .

G l o w i n g t e s t i m o n i a l s h a v e p r o v e n t h i s t o b e

a w e l c o m e a n d r e f r e s h i n g a p p r o a c h !

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a n d w a n t a g r e a t e x p e r i e n c e w i t h l e s s s t r e s s , w e a r e h e r e f o r y o u

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c h a t , a n d w e ' l l d o e v e r y t h i n g w e c a n t o m a k e

s u r e y o u a r e w e l l l o o k e d a f t e r !

S A M K E R R - S M I L E Y

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S e l l i n g P r o p e r t y w i t h H o n e s t y & I n t e g r i t y f o r o v e r 2 0 y e a r s

I f y o u a r e c u r r e n t l y u n d e r a s o l e c o n t r a c t t o a n o t h e r a g e n t y o u s h o u l d c h e c k t h e t e r m s o f t h a t c o n t r a c t t o a v o i d p o t e n t i a l l y b e i n g e x p o s e d t o d u a l f e e s