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You deserve Amazing! Blush Morganite and diamonds set in 18ct Rose gold and Platinum.
#Don’t be shy‌!
View our beautiful 2 minute film about your commissioning journey by clicking on our homepage at:
charlottecornelius.co.uk 66 Castle Road, Southsea PO5 3AZ 02392 863516 @CharlotteCorneliusLtd Charlotte Cornelius Jewellery Design
CONTRIBUTORS Tara Knight Mum, wife, co-owner of Southsea Coffee Co. naturopathic nutritional adviser and creator of nourishing food at ginger + peach Neil Maxwell is director of Fry & Kent Estate Agents and volunteer crew member of the RNLI Emma Beatty teaches journalism at the University of Portsmouth. She has lived in Southsea for ten years, and has two children John Worsey is a freelance writer, based in Southsea. He works in advertising, communications, media and branding Russell Baldwin has an MA in Film Studies, is a qualified teacher, lives in Southsea and is an experienced carpenter and decorator Lorna Apps-Woodland – Create by LAW illustrated our festive cover. Lorna lives in Southsea, she teaches part-time at Portsmouth University creates and remains curious...
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Jacqui Mair who illustrated ‘A Very Festive Interview’ on p.41 has combined lecturing with her with her own work. An international illustrator & artist she lives with her family in Southsea. Southsea Lifestyle Produced by Salad Publishing Ltd Editor: Kevin John Dean Creative Director: Zirrinia Austin Dean Web design & social media: Daniel Sweeney Media partners: Strong Island Co What’s on listings: Sophie McCue Design assistant: Abi Bryant Editorial assistant: Kai Austin Dean
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CONTENTS 8 BEST LAID PLANS 12 FROM HERE TO MUMBAI 14 ‘TIS THE SEASON TO SPARKLE 18 RECIPE 22 PORTSEA ISLAND STYLE 28 THE GOODS YARD 31 SHOP LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS 36 PORTSMOUTH: A WRITER’S INSPIRATION
38 40 42 54 56
CULTURE VULTURE A VERY FESTIVE INTERVIEW FILM COPING WITH LOSS AT CHRISTMAS FABULOUS FRATTON
57 SING FOR CYSTIC FIBROSIS
18 A NOTE TO ALL BUSINESS OWNERS
We provide a bespoke advertising solution to meet a broad range of budgets, to suit small, medium and large businesses. No heavy sales, no invasive phone calls, just request our media pack. Call: 023 9281 2045 e:info@southsealifestyle.com www.southsealifestyle.com The next edition’s deadline is 19 th January and is published on 4th February.
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H
ave you noticed that there are two camps of people at this time of year? There’s those who absolutely love Christmas and others that are... indifferent to the occasion. It’s often an opening line at parties, “Are you a fan of Christmas?” For those of you that are not sure how to answer that question, here’s a mini test to help you decide:
A You like to buy most of your Christmas gifts by the end of November? B You add up the cost of sending all your family and friends Christmas cards by post and decide to send email greetings instead? A You have a festive wardrobe, consisting of something sparkly, or a wooly jumper covered in reindeer motifs? B You have an unwanted present at the back of your wardrobe which you plan to give to someone else for Christmas this year?
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If your answers were all A, then well done, you are a lover of Christmas! If you answered mainly B, you are ‘indifferent’. Or perhaps, like me, you are a little bit of both? Whatever your opinion of Christmas, we hope you enjoy reading this, our rather seasonal issue. We won’t be publishing a January edition but will be back in February. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. Kevin John Dean
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CHRISTMAS HAS ARRIVED AT DESIGN HOUSE
55-57 Marmion Road Southsea PO5 2AT Tel/Fax 02392 838038 www.designhousesouthsea.co.uk 6
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BEST LAID PLANS James Potter
If you are thinking of upgrading
your project brief and will allow your
your home in the new year, James Potter explains the 3 stage process
designer to cater to your specific needs
of commissioning an architect.
DO YOU NEED AN ARCHITECT? Architectural consultations will help you decide if hiring an architect is appropriate for your project. They have great knowledge and guidance on all aspects of a project, from the initial design stages, right the way through to
in the best way possible.
WHAT DO WE DO? It is the role of the architect to take forward the agreed brief, discuss any initial problems or thoughts and progress with the project. This will usually involve a few options of design
that
will
efficiently
meet
requirements that will reduce costs and
construction. If you think you need planning
hopefully increase the building’s value.
permission for your project, you will more
FIRST STEPS
than likely need an architect.
the
The first stage of any project is the initial meeting! This is the part where yourself and the person in charge of your project can meet, discuss ideas, and get a general first impression, to ensure that they are the right person for the job. It is also a great opportunity to ask questions and gain knowledge about your project.
THE THREE STAGES CREATING A BRIEF When deciding that you need to appoint an architect, it is important that you have a vision of what it is you want to achieve. This will form a project ‘wish list’, which will comprise of any current problems you may have that need solving, any specific design elements you wish to include, or how you may wish to use your space. It is also important, when possible, to have an idea of what your budget is. The combination of these fundamentals will form 8
The design process comprises of three key stages:
sketch,
planning
and
building
involves making the sure that your design can pass through and meet the
requirements
set
by
local
authorities in your area. This may involve tweaking the overall design stage.
Finally,
the
building
regulations stage. This will ensure the buildability of your design. It will involve technical drawings and any specifications of the design that will be handed over to builders for the regulations. The sketch stage is in many ways
construction process to begin.
the most important part of the process. It
THE FINISHED ARTICLE!
involves getting the initial idea down and
This is the part that makes it all worth it!
refining the deign until both parties are
Hopefully at this stage, what you first
satisfied. It will also help to understand if any
imagined will be stood there in front of you
various consultants, usually structural engineers,
and you’ll be able to use it and embrace your
are required. The next stage is planning. This
new space!
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ESTABLISHED BUILDERS
working with local residents & business for over 35 years
2013
Before After
Providing a complete building service From initial consultation through planning to completion we can offer advice and support with excellent project management and skilled workforce
Tel: 023 9283 1925 Email: info@ctmccann.co.uk www.ctmccann.co.uk The Garages, 1A Kirkstall Road, The Garages, Southsea PO4 0SX Like us on
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FROM HERE TO MUMBAI Neil Maxwell
W
e get asked repeatedly what difference the ever growing number of online agents with weird and wonderful names has made to our business and the truth is, not a lot. The number of sales they achieve is in the absolute minimum, primarily because the people asked to value the houses cover such vast swathes of the country that they can hardly be expected to be experts in any given area, resulting in pricing that can be completely incorrect. It should also be remembered that the sole aim of online agents is to get money out of their clients upfront, regardless of the outcome. I recently dealt with a client who had to pay £795 to get herself out of a contract with a portal based company, who hadn’t performed and never even responded to her calls. As soon as they had taken £300 upfront they were off, job done, handed over to a faceless call centre with ever changing staff. Don’t misunderstand me I’m not a luddite, buying and selling online has its place and its incredible to be able to purchase products from around the globe, but can we really trust a faceless call centre with such a complicated process as selling property. From personal security to legal vulnerability, the risks associated with selling property are quite considerable. 12
A few years ago I was involved in a non-fault car accident. Dealing with a call centre in Mumbai was the most frustrating process I’ve ever been involved with; I never spoke to the same person twice and the conversations were repetitive and unproductive. During this process I happened to be in Mumbai, so I decided to pay a visit to the call centre on the ruse that I’d come all the way from England as I just couldn’t get any help over the phone! The people in Mumbai weren’t to know I happened to be visiting someone in the same building and it was only by chance that I noticed that they were located there also. The whole experience was actually very rewarding and the problem was resolved instantly face to face - once they’d got over the shock. Ultimately, it is not just simply a case of putting a property on Rightmove or on the market and it will sell, Knowledge, experience, integrity and accessibility are important factors in communicating with potential purchasers. It may cost more to sell a house with a reputable high street agent, but the difference in charges will save you time and worry, and achieve a better price for your home.
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‘TIS THE SEASON TO SPARKLE Mike Hodges
W
hat would we do without the bright sparkling lights of Christmas brightening up the dismal days of December? Most of the joy of Christmas lies in the days of preparation, which includes what decorations you want to adorn your home with and what type of Christmas tree you would like.
This might mean one of the very ‘real’ looking artificial trees, a pot grown tree or a traditional fir tree, which now includes a ‘slim’ type for those homes with small sitting rooms. Every year colour trends emerge and this Christmas is no exception. Blue, pink and silver in delicate winter shades seem to top the tree for 2016 combined with a move towards ‘nature’ with festive items based on woodland themes and foliage. Themed Christmas trees are also on trend with a more sophisticated look for adults based on one or two colours such as grey and white, silver and red, or blue and white and for children trees decorated with animals or toys. I have created an enchanting ‘Elf Tree’ in red and green, which is a delight for children, with the branches laden with cheeky looking elves, lollipops, canes and twirls with an elf hat as its crowning glory! As a contrast, we have also created a number of clever and stylish two-tone artificial trees such as
grey and silver, blue and white or pink and green – all a statement in the ultimate clean minimalistic look for those of us seeking a little sophistication. Staying with themes, in our colourful ‘Santa’s Spectacular Toy Shop’, elves, reindeer and woodland animals line the rustic shelves of the garden ‘Where Time Forget’. Some are soft toys ideal as presents or stocking fillers and others are tree or outdoor decorations. My ‘White, Magical & Modern’ display moves away from colour to white and cream to create an equally superb, but very different effect for our gardens and outdoor spaces. Vintage inspired wall signs and Christmas decorations add a touch of the contemporary, while garlands of white roses add an elegant backdrop to mantelpieces, doorways or staircases. Indoor and exterior lighting has also come along in leaps and bounds, adding seasonal sparkle with the advent of LED lights, both battery and mains operated, making it much more simple to light up any area of your home and garden. Mike Hodges is a garden designer who works at Hambrooks of Titchfield. He has won awards at Chelsea and Hampton Court flower shows.
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SOUTHSEA BEACH CAFÉ LOOKS FORWARD TO THE CHRISTMAS SEASON & 2017 John Pryde
O
wner and founder Ian Clark is energised and focussed on the continued success and popularity of his beachfront eatery. Having recently stepped back from his day job, he is now running the business full time, supported by a loyal and dedicated staff, including a highly talented head chef. Ian has just completed a second phase of improvement to the café, including the installation of a new retractable roof to provide cover for the external deck area, and a second wood burner. Innovative heated sofas will provide further comfort for customers throughout the year and no doubt will be very popular with many dog walkers. The café takes its food very seriously and the kitchen acts as a food lab where new dishes and recipes are constantly under review and consideration. Seasonality and local sourcing are core to the variety and success of the menu, with popular classics and specials, or seasonal options cooked fresh to order. Breakfast/brunch on the beach is a must, and the options, ranging from full English to eggs Benedict, brioche french toast layered with peanut butter, caramelised banana with streaky bacon, or autumn compote, all ensure a broad
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smile of satisfaction. Seafood lovers can soak up the views and breathe the fresh sea air as they ponder SBC fish & chips, fish cakes, the Dover sole with brown shrimp and cockle butter, or the Autumn Fish Stew – a colourful vibrant melody of shell fish, grilled red mullet, tomato garlic and saffron potatoes. Soups and sandwiches pack a satisfactory punch, while the burgers deliver mouth watering pleasure, (with a robust vegetarian option). Not forgetting the 12oz slow cooked lamb shoulder patty, served with French onions and melted Gruyere
on
a
butter
brioche with potato skins or fries. With local teas, artisan roasted coffee, special hot chocolates and delicious locally baked cakes, the emphasis is very much upon high quality. Wines are from local vineyards in Hampshire, as well as some notable wines from around the globe, all personally selected to ensure perfect pairing with the seasonal menu. Christmas now lies ahead with some limited availability. 2017 promises to be an exciting prospect with a new winter menu launching in January, and stand by for more news about future developments .
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THE FRONT ROOM – AURORA CAFE, ALBERT ROAD, SOUTHSEA John Sackett aunched in May of this year, The Front and humour of one of Hampshire’s Room is a monthly spoken word and music finest spoken word performers: The Speech night, which has been keeping people Painter. Both nights have a great line up of acts with everything from entertained in the relaxed coffee bar ambience guest
L
of Aurora on Albert Road. It is licensed to sell alcohol, but the coffee bar vibe gives these nights a distinctly different atmosphere to a stand up vertical drinking venue. The emphasis on both nights is on performers delivering original material of sounds and words. The Front Room – Words is on the first Thursday of every month and The Front Room – Sounds on the first Friday. D e c e m b e r throws in some extra dates and highlights will be the Sounds of Southsea favourites
performance poetry to acoustic music, a touch of comedy as well as open mic opportunities with proceedings managed by resident compère Stella Bahin (above). You can find out more about all the events on: https://www.facebook.com/frontroomword sandmusic/
Come and see us to find out why we think we are the most “Hygge” place in Southsea
– The Day of The Rabblement (up tempo folk) on December 2 nd and Gareth Howells’ (acoustic guitars) Times Effect on December 9th. The Front Room – Words will be on December 1st and 15th. The 1st is headlined by Donna Jones and Joan Ellis performing ‘Them 2’, whilst the 15th hosts the rapid fire 20
is a family run business, which has been trading in Portsmouth for over 40 years. We catch, prepare, buy and sell quality seafood for businesses, chefs and passionate home cooks throughout the UK. Fish for Christmas? If your looking for Prawns, Lobster, Turbot, Scallops, Crab, Brill, Sea Bass, Smoked Salmon for the festive period order now to avoid disappointment. Come to either of our shops to collect your Fish Hamper or arrange a free home delivery. CALL: 023 92 817 547 / 023 92 755 275 EMAIL: info@johnsonsenterprises.com WEB: www.johnsonsenterprises.com
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Christmas opening times Friday 23rd 10-3pm Saturday 24th 10-12pm (collections only) closed 25th-2nd January, Back to normal on Tuesday 3rd January.
Christmas opening times Friday 23rd 7am-3pm Saturday 24th 7am-12pm Closed 25th-2nd January
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PORTSEA ISLAND STYLE
I
Tara Knight
have always been intensely proud of my home city. I often describe Portsmouth as a place that is full of secret delights, a bit like the quiet man softly sipping his ale at the bar who is full of stories, wonder and experience. Portsmouth may at first seem unassuming to an outsider, but when you look a bit closer you can see that it’s full of character.
Now our modest city seems to be having its much deserved moment, with more and more local businesses stepping into the limelight and showing others how we do it, Portsea Island style. This year Southsea has been at the heart of a celebration of food and drink. Our much loved Becketts has been gloriously reimagined, Monty’s in Castle Road has started serving delicious seasonal produce and Southsea Beach Café’s BBQs by the sea brought us fresh seafood. Gin and Olive have shown us all how to make a decent cocktail: and then there’s Camber Wines, Wave Maiden, Baffled Coffee, Hole in the Wall, Pie and Vinyl, Sakura, Indian Cottage and so many more. Absolutely something for everybody.
Photo: www.SkyPixel.solutions
This movement has culminated in Portsea Island finally stepping into a bigger limelight. For the first time, this year we have no less than 6 local, independent businesses representing Southsea in the Hampshire Life Food and Drink Awards. Restaurant 27 is up for Restaurant of the Year, Bread Addiction for Best Bakery, and Wild Thyme Wholefoods for best Independent Food Shop. Then there’s the beloved Buckwells for Butchers of the Year, Staggeringly Good Beer for Best Drink Product and us, Southsea Coffee for Coffee Shop of the Year. Whether we win or not, being voted for by the public means Southsea is getting its much deserved moment. What is so special is that we’re all there to support each other’s journeys; on Portsea Island we have a certain comradery and mutual support that bonds us. We’ve always known that we have something unique, special and delicious and now the rest of Hampshire will see that Portsea Island style too. I can’t wait for the treats that 2017 will have in store x
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JOIN A LEADING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL SIXTH FORM IN HAMPSHIRE
P
ortsmouth High School Sixth Form is a
leading
independent
Sixth
Form
in
Hampshire achieving outstanding A Level
results year after year. A dedicated Sixth Form
Entry Day is being held on Tuesday 31 January for all applicants looking to join the Sixth Form in September 2017. During the day candidates will sit our Sixth Form Entrance Paper and attend a short interview with the Headmistress and Deputy Head (Academic). During the rest of the day students will have the opportunity to participate in A Level lessons and meet current sixth formers and staff. The day will provide time to experience the style of teaching on offer in the Sixth Form and see the facilities across the school.
This year was another tremendously successful year for Portsmouth High Sixth Formers. Girls achieved an impressive 15% of A* grades, 44% A*/A and 80% A* – B grades at A Level with an excellent spread of top grades across all subjects. The Sixth Form experience brings a wide range of leadership opportunities together with an innovative personal development and enrichment programme designed to help students achieve their best in readiness for university and the world of work. To attend the Sixth Form Entry Day, please contact our Admissions Registrar Louise Nunan on 023 9282 6714 or via admissions@por.gdst.net
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27
A
THE GOODS YARD
large population that frequently changes and relocates has given Portsmouth a lively second hand and antique trade. For over forty years Colin Macleod has been one of the city’s most popular and innovative antique dealers. Here he talks about his varied life and his more recent business, The Goods Yard in Goldsmith Avenue.
which I also took over and developed. However, the site is due to be developed into flats, so we will be relocating next year sometime. What do most customers buy? We specialise in traditional English and Continental antiques, with a large range of antique doors and other architectural salvage. The paint stripping service, (The Strip Joint), is also very popular and we have customers coming from as far away as Harrogate to get internal/external doors and furniture stripped, waxed and painted. We also handle fireplaces and metal items, which can also be powder coated here.
How did you start in the antiques trade? For ten years I was a branch manager with Britannic Assurance, but always with a keen interest in antiques. In 1975 I decided to open two outlets - The Antiques Centre in Frensham Road and the Antiques Warehouse in Goldsmith Avenue. In many ways, antiques were more popular then than they are now and, before long we were using railway sheds to store much of our stock and exporting antiques all over the world. We had so many sheds we used pushbikes to get from one shed to the other.
Where do you get your stock from? From auctions, demolition companies, house clearances and members of the public. We also import decorative items from India, China and America.
Why didn't it continue? By the end of the ‘80s, antiques were becoming less fashionable and then along came the 1990 -91 recession. We moved the business to France and then Spain, specialising in marine antiques. Seven years ago we moved back to the UK and opened The Goods Yard, just a short walk from where it all started.
Any interesting finds? Yes, years ago I visited Canada with a view to exporting antiques from the UK. A few days after arriving, I bought a lovely 19th century painting (of Arundel, Sussex of all places), by quite an important artist. The sale of the painting on my return, paid for the trip and kicked off the export business to Canada.
The Goods Yard is an interesting location, what was it originally? For many years it had been a coal yard, and more recently, another dealer had started a paint stripping service - 'The Strip Joint',
The Goods Yard 245 Goldsmith Avenue PO4 OBS. Open from: 8am-4pm, Mon-Sat. Closed over Christmas - New Year, (open by appointment).
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SHOP LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS
M
any of our local retailers, large and small, depend upon our custom at Christmas to help them through the quieter months in the new year. The next few pages
are filled with various gift ideas, at different price points and for
different age groups. We have included a few on-line sellers too, but all from Portsmouth and Southsea. Silver lucky pebble with 18ct yellow gold bumble bee from the Lucky Pebble Collection - £350 Barbara Tipple Jewellers 15 Marmion Road, Southsea Kissed by Mii Seriously Smoothing Exfoliator - 200ml, super-fine, gentle exfoliator is suitable for the face as well as the body - £13.95 Butterfly Beauty 19 Albert Road, Southsea
Playforever Cars, their sleek look makes them lovely to play with and gorgeous to look at supposedly lasting forever- £26.99 - £50 White Dog Gallery 11 Stanley Street, Southsea
Products in this image available from Knight & Lee, Palmerston Road, Southsea
Casbah adjustable necklace, sterling silver & 18ct yellow gold vermeil. Stunningly versatile 50 inch long necklace (limited edition) - £243. Also in silver & oxidised kohl back finish - £225 Charlotte Cornelius 66 Castle Road, Southsea
Scandinavian Gnomes, from £28-£75 each, Design House Southsea 55-57 Marmion Road
Cactus in Gold Geometric Pots - £10 each, see also their beautiful Copper & Grey Door Wreath - £40 on page 5 Rose Clover Contact Liz via her website roseclover.co.uk
Driftwood Sculpture from maker Kathy Harris - £125 Aspex The Vulcan Building,Gunwharf Quays
A limited edition natural skincare collection for Christmas, including: You’ve Been Naughty – Charcoal Soap (100g), Cinnamon & Vanilla Spice Bath Pebbles (3 x 20g), Peppermint Blooming Bath & Shower Oil (250ml). All beautifully presented in a luxury magnetic close box with shredded paper- £32 Available from Southsea Bathing Hut, see website for stockists southseabathinghut.co.uk
Stunning hand smocked girls dress - £62.50 and soft knitted pink cardigan - £22.50 Available from Southsea company NaranjaCloud.co.uk
Hodie! - £9.99 A selection of Christmas carols, sung by The Portsmouth Grammar School Chamber Choir which consists of pupils from Year 9 to the Upper Sixth www.pgs.org.uk/product/ hodie/ Pompey Eye Test A3 print - £20 (unframed), available in a Cream & Black, by. Divine Aesthetic via their website: http://loveda print.com/product/ pompey-eye-test/ Mustique Pineapple Shopper - £28. Contact local twin sisters Jani & Jo, the founders of Beach Bunnies via their website:beachbunnies.co.uk 34
PORTSMOUTH: A WRITER’S INSPIRATION
P
Diana Bretherick
ortsmouth is a great place to be a writer,
particularly if, like me, your genre is
historical fiction. I am not alone in this. It
isn’t just because of its literary connections -
although of course they are everywhere, from the birthplace of Dickens to the creation of Sherlock Holmes. It is also in the city’s buildings, where history exudes from every inch, giving a richness and depth of character that is all consuming. I usually take a daily walk around the city. Perhaps it’s displacement. Writers are usually pretty good at that. But I prefer to call it research. Sometimes, I walk down to the seafront and visit the castle. Standing out on its walls looking out to sea, I imagine how Henry VIII must have felt when his favourite ship, the Mary Rose sank as the Battle of the Solent raged. Further along towards the seafront is another favourite spot, the Garrison Church, which dates back to the thirteenth century. The marriage between Charles II and Catherine of Braganza took place here, and, as I walk in her footsteps, I think about what it must have been like to leave all she knew and loved behind, to marry a man who was a virtual stranger. I also enjoy a wander around Highland Road Cemetery, with its gothic stone angels and fascinating gravestones, all of which tell a story about the people of Portsmouth and the lives they’ve lived. I’ve written several short stories inspired by my walks here. These wanderings are often solitary and occasionally slightly unnerving, particularly at dusk, when silence reigns, apart from the odd rustle in the undergrowth. I often have a sensation of being watched by the ghosts of those whose tales are etched on the stones. But for all that, it isn’t a melancholy place or a frightening one. It may be fanciful, but I feel somehow welcomed, as if the 36
dead want their stories to be told. And now for my final confession – on my travels I often linger on Elm Grove, by the plaque that marks the place where Conan Doyle created Sherlock Holmes. The hero in my novels, Scottish doctor James Murray, is loosely based on Conan Doyle, and the Holmes and Watson stories are a constant source of inspiration; so it feels fitting that I should pay homage to the master on a regular basis I am far from being alone in drawing on history for my writing. There are several local authors who do likewise. William Sutton sets his novels featuring his detective Sergeant Campbell Lawless in Victorian London. Many of V.H Leslie’s evocative gothic stories are also set in the nineteenth century. Matt Wingett not only writes historical nonfiction, but has also republished forgotten works from the past such as Lake Allen’s The History of Portsmouth (1817). We meet regularly to talk about our work and I know that we are all conscious of how privileged we are to live in such an atmospheric and historic city. For my part, I can’t wait to tell more of its stories in the future. Diana Bretherick’s latest book – The Devil’s Daughters was published 2016 by Orion Books £9.99. William Sutton’s Lawless series published by Titan Books £7.99. V.H Leslie’s Bodies of Water published 2016 by Salt £8.99. The History of Portsmouth by Lake Allen (1817) and republished by Matt Wingett £9.99
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CULTURE VULTURE CRAFTY CHRISTMAS AT THE HOT WALLS
T
Emma Beatty
he Hot Walls is perfect for summer sunbathing, of course, but now it’s pretty good for chilly mid-winter weekends too — with its new Canteen café, deep in the walls themselves. It’s perfect to sit and look at the surging Solent and its shipping lanes. This weekend, there are some crafty, quirky Christmas markets to go and see too 2-3 Dec. In the Square Tower, there’s an Etsy Market with work by over 200 artists, artisans, crafters, designers, and makers. If you shop on Etsy online, you’ll be familiar with the standard of handmade work and quirky vintage pieces. Hotwalls Studios Festive Creative Market is next door, and includes the Round Tower, rarely open to the public – curated by Portsmouth University lecturer, photographer/artist Claire Sambrook in association with PCC 3 Dec. Round the corner, Portsmouth Anglican Cathedral has its Christmas Fair 3 Dec selling home-made cakes, preserves, needlecraft, baby clothes, toiletries, etc. Santa Claus will be in his grotto: admission £1, which includes a gift. Jack House Gallery, Portsmouth High Street has literary-inspired artworks and illustrated books for its Christmas show. There are illustrations of Dickens Bleak House and A Tale of Two Cities by Chris Orr RA. Prints and drawings from Mychael Barratt’s London Particular, which looks to Dickens and Shakespeare. Also, publishing house Enitharmon Editions has lent works of poetry, artists’ books and limited edition prints. Their I have Found a Song includes prints 38
by Paula Rego and Sonia Boyce.Until 24 December Fee Fo Fi Fum…There’s no easy segue from Paula Rego to panto – though they do share a cast of fantastical nightmarish characters… This year, Jack and the Beanstalk is at The Kings 6 Dec-1 Jan. The frightening Anne Hegerty – The Governess on ITV’s teatime game show The Chase is the villain Blackweed. You can also see the 1940s James Stewart classic It’s a Wonderful Life on the big screen at The Kings 22 Dec 7.30 – an uplifting start to a night out on Albert Road perhaps? At the New Theatre Royal, Father Christmas is pitched against the evil Ice Queen in Santa Claus – The Musical 9-31 Dec. There are Eurovision stars and “singing penguins, dancing polar bears, singing crows and almost all of Santa’s reindeer”. For ballet fans, The Russian State Ballet of Siberia brings The Nutcracker to The Guildhall 11 Jan. There’s a live orchestra, and fantastical effects as the stage transforms from suburban sitting room to winter wonderland. Southsea Castle’s Christmas Cracker Finally, Southsea Castle is open especially for Christmas 17 Dec, 3pm-late, FREE entry. The Courtyard Café and Restaurant will serve festive food and drink. The champagne bar is open and a jazz band will play carols. You can tour the brewery, have some hog roast and buy gifts at a makers and mini Christmas market, in aid of Crisis at Christmas.
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39
A VERY FESTIVE INTERVIEW John Worsey
W
e’d arranged to meet at my house. But as I waited for my biggest ever interviewee to arrive, I started to second-guess my hosting decisions. Was the plate of mince pies too presumptuous?
Before I could dash to the kitchen cupboard and grab an emergency packet of Digestives, I heard it. The jangling chime of sleigh bells. The light canter of careful hooves. The tiniest trickle of dust, raining gently down into the hearth. Thank goodness I’d had the chimney swept! Then, as if by magic (and really, what else could it be?) he arrived. It’s hard to describe what happened. One moment the fireplace was empty. The next, a pair of black leather boots with snowwhite fur trim stood upon the grate. And, quick as a wink, there he was; leaning jauntily against the mantlepiece with a twinkle in his eye, as real as you and I. “Ho ho,” he said. “I spy mince pies.” “Yes! Would you like one?” “Oh, I’d like ten,” he chuckled. “But I only indulge one night a year.” He patted his ample belly and admitted, “It takes rather a long time to work them all off.” “I see…” Star-struck, my mind went blank. He grinned. “So. What would you like to ask me?” I waffled: “Well, this is the interview I’ve been waiting for my whole life. I mean, you’re a hero to me. One of the world’s good guys. Generous, selfless; the ultimate philanthropist. With you, there’s so much give, and no intent to take. You don’t even feel the need to sue when your image gets hijacked to sell sugary drinks.” “Life’s too short,” he shrugged. “I hope it’s not rude to ask but, um, how old are you, anyway?” 40
“Oh, hundreds of years. I’ve lost count.” “Do you ever think about retiring?” “Why would I? I’ve got the best job in the world.” “How do you get around the planet in just one night?” “40% magic. 40% luck. 20% mince pies.” “What would you say is the secret of your success? Apart from giving presents?” “Oh, I’m not sure the presents are the big thing really. I think it’s about kindness. Just being good to people, as you said, with no strings attached. That’s how I’ve always lived, even before I did this job. Of course, you don’t need a team of reindeer, a magic sleigh and a secret toy workshop to be good to people. It doesn’t have to be a job and it certainly shouldn’t feel like work. If it does, you really ought to ask yourself why.” “What if people are not good to you? I mean, I don’t know if you’ve heard about Donald Tru… He interrupted me, gently. “That’s not the point, John.” I pondered for a moment. “Right. I think I get it.” He nodded. “There’s not much to get. That doesn’t mean it’s easy. But it’s by far the best way to live.” “Are you sure you won’t have a mince pie? It’s just, I’d really like to give you something to say thank you for everything.” He chuckled. “Oh, go on then. But just one. And then I must dash away. Lots to do.” We munched in easy silence. The world felt lighter than it had before. I looked up from my empty plate, wiping crumbs from my mouth - and he was gone. He hadn’t left a present under the tree. But as this year of division, fear and distrust draws to an end, I think he left me with something better. A choice. To see the best, instead of the worst and, above all, to be kind. Call it a new year’s resolution, if you like. I call it hope. Merry Christmas.
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Illustration: Jacqui Mair
WHAT’S ON BLOOD DONOR SESSIONS Fri 16 Dec, Fri 3 Feb COSHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE, WOOTTON STREET, COSHAM 1.30-3.25pm & 4.30-7.30pm Fri 14 Dec, Tue 27 Dec, Thu 12 Jan, Tue 24 Jan, Wed 1 Feb THE VICTORY LOUNGE, FRATTON PARK, PORTSMOUTH 1.30-3.25pm & 4.30-7.30pm www.blood.co.uk
EXHIBITIONS & MUSEUMS
Aspex Gallery
Until 8 Jan EXHIBITION: TROVE Every Wednesday MINI MAKERS 11am-12pm £3 per child. Led by trained arts professionals, each Mini Makers starts with a story, before the children —together with their parents and guardians — are invited to try their hand at a range of fun and exciting arts activities Every Friday GENERATE new art and craft skills for people with dementia10.30am-1pm FREE Every Saturday FAMILY SATURDAYS 11am-12.30pm FREE
WEDS - SUNDAY, 11-4 & BANK HOLS
The Vulcan Building, Gunwharf Quays
Third Thursdays - every month open
Tel: 023 9277 8080
until 8pm, check online for more info
www.aspex.org.uk
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard & Naval Museums
Sun 11 Dec CHRISTMAS CONCERT 7.30pm £15 Royal Marines Museum Wed 14 Dec ASK THE ARCHIVES 10am-5pm Free with valid ticket Royal Marines Museum Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth PO1 3LJ Tel: 023 9283 9766 www.historicdockyard.co.uk
Portsmouth Museums
Sat 10 Dec SOUTHSEA WILDLIFE WATCH – CHRISTMAS CRAFTS for children aged 5-15 10am-12 noon £3 This session will be held outdoors, please wrap up warm
FILM
T
Arrival USA 2015 Director: Denis Villeneuve Cert 12A are laid bare. Arrival is ideas based, rather than being driven by action (both on Earth and in space), and the director keeps the slow pace interesting. BUT - If the sub text/message of Arrival is too sombre for your Christmas preparations, then try Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, J.K. Rowlings’ latest addition to our cinematic world. This time Eddie Redmayne plays the awkward loner Newt Scamander in New York’s hidden world of wizards and muggles in the 1920s. OR - If that is too fantastical or familiar, try the bitter-sweet cynicism of Billy Wilder’s 1960 classic The Apartment with Jack Lemon and Shirely Maclean at No 6 Cinema on the 22nd December (see details opposite). Happy Xmas to all. Russell Baldwin
wleve alien spacecraft arrive on Earth and hover menacingly at different points around the planet. Amy Adams plays a linguistics professor who is chosen by the US military to decode the complex and unfamiliar language and symbols that the aliens use to communicate. Other countries have their own people all trying to figure out the purpose and possible actions of all these aliens as society panics and starts to fall apart. This is not the crash bang wallop of sci-fi such as Star Trek, Independence Day or Star Wars. The pace of Arrival is much slower and thoughtful as the intentions of the aliens are slowly revealed and the fear and insecurities of the humans to the crisis 42
Cumberland House Natural History Museum Sun 11 & Sun 18 Dec GUIDED WALK: DICKENS CHRISTMAS meet Victory Gate 2.30pm finish at Portsmouth Museum £3 Sat 17-Sun18, Tue 20-Thu 22, Wed 28-Sat 31 Dec SOUTHSEA CASTLE OPEN Tue 10 Jan TALK: PORTSMOUTH AND THE BLITZ by Dr John Steadman of the Portsmouth Records Office at Portsmouth Museum 6pm Sun 29 Jan HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY10am-5pm FREE D-Day Museum www.portsmouthmuseums.co.uk
FILM
Cafe au Cinéma
Sat 3 Dec STAR WARS - A NEW HOPE 6pm
Sun 4 Dec STAR WARS - THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK 6pm Sat 10 Dec STAR WARS - RETURN OF THE JEDI 6pm Sun 11 Dec STAR WARS - THE FORCE AWAKENS 6pm Sat 17 Dec POLAR EXPRESS 12pm, ELF 2pm, THE HOLIDAY 5pm, GREMLINS 8pm Sun 18 Dec ARTHUR CHRISTMAS 12pm, THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL 2pm, LOVE ACTUALLY 5pm, DIE HARD 8pm Fri 23 Dec THE GRINCH 12pm,
No 6 Cinema Sat 3 Dec WAR ON EVERYONE Cert 15 7pm Mon 5 Dec THE COMING WAR ON CHINA + LIVE SATELLITE Q&A (TBC) 8pm Thu 8 Dec IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT Cert 12A 7pm Fri 9 Dec BLUE VELVET Cert 18 7pm Sat 10 Dec THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN Cert 15 7pm Fri 16 Dec NOCTURNAL ANIMALS
HOME ALONE 2pm, IT'S A
Cert 15 7pm
WONDERFUL L IFE 5pm,
Sat 17 Dec THE LIGHT BETWEEN
SCROOGED 8pm
OCEANS Cert 12A 7pm
Sat 24 Dec THE MUPPET
Thu 22 Dec THE NIGHTMARE
CHRISTMAS CAROL 12pm, ELF
BEFORE CHRISTMAS Cert PG 4pm
2pm, WHITE CHRISTMAS 5pm,
Thu 22 Dec THE APARTMENT Cert
KRAMPUS 8pm
PG 7pm
50 Osborne Rd, Southsea PO5 3LT
Cont’d p.45
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MARKETS & FAIRS Sat 3 & 4 Dec, Sat 10 & 11 Dec LOVE SOUTHSEA MARKETS Palmerston Road www.lovesouthsea.co.uk Sat 3 Dec ETSY MADE LOCAL 11am Square Tower www.hampshirefarmersmarket.co.uk Sat 3 Dec THE HOTWALLS STUDIOS FESTIVE CREATIVE MARKET A curated creative market, inc, prints, textiles, ceramics, books and jewellery and workshops, along with food, drink and seasonal music 10am-4pm Hotwalls Studios & Round Tower, Old Portsmouth PO1 2FS www.hotwallsstudios.co.uk Sat 3 & 4 Sun Dec CASTLE ROAD CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Vintage clothing, records, Food, Mulled wine and Antiques from quality independent traders.
Sat 3 Dec CHRISTMAS FAIR at 11.30am-4pm 50p admission
MUSIC
Portsmouth Anglican Cathedral
Portsmouth Guildhall
Sat 3 Dec HEAVEN & EARTH
Sat 3 Dec THE DJ SHOP 2016 7pm
MARKET 11am-4pm London Road,
from £27.50
North End
Sun 4 Dec HIGH TEA AT
Sat 3 - Sat 31 Dec FESTIVE FUN at
PORTSMOUTH GUILDHALL 2.30pm
Manor Farm, Bursledon – normal
£16.50pp
admission applies
Tue 6 Dec EVOLVE: SONGWRITING
Sun 4 Dec WICKHAM CHRISTMAS
PARENT WORKSHOP 6pm FREE,
FAIR 11am-3pm The Wickham Centre Sun 4 Dec PETERSFIELD CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 10am3.30pm Sat 17 Dec LOVE SOUTHSEA CHRISTMAS MARKET 9am-5pm Palmerston Road Sun 18 Dec, Sun 21 Jan HAMPSHIRE FARMERS MARKET 10am-2pm Palmerston Road Precinct
25 YEARS OF REEVES & MORTIMER: THE POIGNANT MOMENTS 7pm £32.95 Wed 7 Dec KEVIN BLOODY WILSON 7pm £32.45 Thu 8 Dec BSO: FIREWORKS FROM ARMENIA 7pm from £16 Sun 11 Dec THE MILTON GLEE CLUB CHRISTMAS CONCERT 3pm from £6.50 Cont’d p.47
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Tue 13 Dec JIMMY CARR: THE BEST
MUSIC MAKING FAMILY
Mon 30 Jan PORTSMOUTH
OF, ULTIMATE GOLD, GREATEST
WORKSHOP for children 4-11 years
CHAMBER MUSIC: ENSEMBLE 360
HITS TOUR 7.30pm £30.25
1.30pm FREE
7pm Tickets available from the
Wed 14 Dec FRANK TURNER & THE
Mon 9 – Sun10 Jan SWAN LAKE –
Portsmouth Guildhall: 0844 453
SLEEPING SOULS GET BETTER TOUR
THE RUSSIAN STATE BALLET AND
9028 For further information, please
7pm £30.10
ORCHESTRA OF SIBERIA 7pm from
contact music@port.ac.uk or 023
Fri 16-17 Dec PORTSMOUTH BEER
£15.50
9284 3023 £17
FESTIVAL 12noon & 6pm sessions
Wed 11 – Thu12 Jan NUTCRACKER
Fri 4 Feb EVOLVE: DRUMMING &
£11.75
– THE RUSSIAN STATE BALLET AND
PERCUSSION FAMILY WORKSHOP
Sun 18 Dec ANDY WILLIAMS & THE
ORCHESTRA OF SIBERIA 2pm &
for children aged 4-11 years with
OSMONDS CHRISTMAS
7pm from £9.50
autism and SEN 1.30pm FREE
EXTRAVAGANZA 7pm from £30.75
Thu12 Jan BSO – SWEEPING
Guildhall Square, Portsmouth PO1
Mon 19 Dec JASON DONOVAN
SIBELIUS 7pm £16
2AB Box office: 0844 847 2362
7pm from £39
Sun 15 Jan THE BOB DYLAN STORY
www.portsmouthguildhall.org.uk
Thu 22 Dec BSO – LAST NIGHT OF
7pm £20.30
THE CHRISTMAS PROMS 7pm from
Fri 20 - Sun 22 Jan LORD OF THE
Wedgewood Rooms
£16
DANCE: Dangerous Games times
Fri 23 Dec LAUGH OUT LOUD
and prices vary, contact box office
COMEDY CLUB 7.30pm £17
Tue 24 Jan RUMOURS OF
Sat 31 Dec NEW YEARS EVE PARTY
FLEETWOOD MAC 7pm £26.35
7pm £75pp
Thu 26 Jan BSO – BACK IN THE
Sat 7 Jan EVOLVE: CREATIVE
USSR 7pm from £16
Sat 3 Dec THE ALARM 8pm £22.50 WHERE’S ME JUMPER? 9pm Sun 4 Dec LISSIE 7.30pm £22.25 Tue 6 Dec FRIGHTENED RABBIT 8pm £17.05 Cont’d p.49
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JOHN GRAY Heating Gas Installation Servicing & Maintenance All types of gas appliances Specialist Combination Boiler Engineer
Small family run business anything from plugtop to rewire Tel: 07837 998773 02392 358253 rob@camberelectrical.co.uk
E A Locksmiths local independent locksmith Phone: 07850 545901 (24hrs)
02393 660 123
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Tel: 07842202892 Aboveboard Floor Sanding Free Quotation Clean reliable service Public liability insurance
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07976 551 614 01489 602 650 aboveboardfloorsanding.com aboveboardflooring@live.com Like us on
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Wed 7 Dec BEANS ON TOAST
Thu 29 Dec KOJAK’S REVENGE
only Beddow Library
8pm £13.25
Fri 30 Dec WEDGE COMEDY CLUB
Thu 8 Dec TURIN BRAKES 8pm £22
Sat 31 Dec THE BOOTLEGS AND
Mondays 10.30am term time only Carnegie Library
Fri 9 Dec BREAKING BANDS, PETS,
MOJO DOLLAR
Wednesdays 10am Central Library
THE WOLF CUB CLUB
Wed 25 Jan THE KING BLUES
Tuesdays 11.15am Cosham Library
Sat 10 Dec DREADZONE
Sat 28 Jan ICEBREAKER FESTIVAL
8pm £17.75
Sat 4 Feb MR B THE GENTLEMAN
Sun 11 Dec THE RETURN OF…DEAD
RHYMER PLEASE NOTE THIS LIST IS NOT EXHAUSTIVE AS NEW EVENTS MAY HAVE BEEN ADDED SINCE THE MAGAZINE WENT TO PRINT. PLEASE VISIT www.wedgewoodrooms.co.uk FOR FURTHER INFO
Mondays, Thursdays 10am, Saturdays 10.30am Southsea Library
MEN WALKING 7.30pm £18 Wed 14 Dec BIRTH AND OTHER PLAYS Fri 16 Dec IT’S A SIN Sat 17 Dec SOUTHSEA ALTERNATIVE CHOIR Sun 18 Dec READY TO ROCK SCHOOL Mon 19 Dec FATHER CHRISTMAS NEEDS A WEE
PORTSMOUTH LIBRARIES Regular Activities
Wed 21 Dec THE BIG FAT
RHYME TIME
XMAS QUIZ
Fridays 10am Alderman Lacey
Fri 23 Dec THE FOUNDERS OF…
Library
Wed 28 Dec MARK MORRISS
Wednesdays 2.15pm - term time
STORY TIME Thursdays 10am Alderman Lacey Library Mondays 2pm Southsea Library Every Monday SCRABBLE CLUB Alderman Lacey Library Every Monday RELAX WITH COLOURING Beddow Library Every Monday RELAX WITH COLOURING Southsea Library Every Wednesday CAREERS ADVICE 10am Southsea Library First Wednesday of the month Cont’d p.50
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READING HACK 4.45pm
contact the box office to book
Fri 9 Dec THAT’LL BE THE DAY
Every Monday CAREERS ADVICE
Thu 15 Dec THEATRE TOUR 1pm &
CHRISTMAS SHOW 7.30pm
10am Beddow Library
2.30pm £5
Tue 13 Dec ART DEMONSTRATION
Every Wednesday 1pm CAREERS
Fri 16 Dec CHRISTMAS MURDER
WITH KARL RUDZIAK 6pm
ADVICE Beddow Library Every Thursday CAREERS ADVICE 1pm Southsea Library Every Tuesday KNITTING GROUP Central Library Every Tuesday CAREERS ADVICE 10am Central Library Every Thursday RELAX WITH COLOURING Cosham Library
MYSTERY 8pm £28 (including a 3
Thu 15 Dec NATIONAL THEATRE
course meal). Fancy dress available
LIVE: NO MAN'S LAND 7.30pm
to hire from £10
Mon 19 Dec FATHER CHRISTMAS
Sun 18 Dec MEET SANTA AND
NEEDS A WEE! At WEDGEWOOD
THE PANTO CAST 11am £2.50
ROOMS 11am
Thu 22 Dec THEATRE TOUR 11am £5
Thu 22 Dec FILM: IT'S A
SEE THE OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH LIBRARIES FACEBOOK PAGE FOR MORE UPCOMING EVENTS AT PORTSMOUTH LIBRARIES
THEATRE
Groundlings Theatre
Sun 8 Jan WEDDING FAIR 11am-4pm Fri 13-Sun15, Fri 20-Sun22, Fri 27-Sun 29 Jan ALADDIN ADULT PANTO 8pm £15 42 Kent Street, Portsea PO1 3BS
WONDERFUL LIFE 7.30pm Sun 15 Jan ONE NIGHT OF ELVIS Lee Memphis King 7.30pm Wed 18 Jan RSC LIVE: THE TEMPEST (12A) 2pm
www.groundlings.co.uk
Fri 20 Jan JACKSON LIVE IN
Kings Theatre
Sun 22 Jan WATERLOO The Best of
CONCERT STARRING BEN 7.30pm
Sat 3 Dec THEATRE TOURS 10.30am
ABBA 7.30pm
Fri 2 - Sat 31 Dec SNOW WHITE
Tue 6 Dec - 1 Jan JACK AND THE
Thu 26 Jan SOME GUYS HAVE ALL
AND THE SEVEN DWARFS – times,
BEANSTALK see box office for
THE LUCK – THE ROD STEWART
dates and prices vary – please
times and prices
STORY 7.30pm
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Sat 28 Jan HOUSE OF BURLESQUE
NEURODIVERGENCE Weekend of
Sun 4 Dec JINGLE JOG (5K RUN,
7.30pm
performances, exhibitions, artists,
JOG OR WALK) 9.30am Ad £10, Ch
Sun 29 Jan SINATRA, SEQUINS &
guest speakers and conversation.
SWING 3.30pm
Sat 4 Feb JOHN SHUTTLEWORTH:
£5 U4 FREE Staunton Country Park Mon 5 Dec TOP BANANA
Sat 4 Feb RULE THE WORLD
MY LAST WILL AND TASTY
BEGINNERS TRAPEZE CLASS 5pm
Recreating the Magic of Take That
MINT 8pm
7.30pm
20-24 Guildhall Walk,
Sun 5 Feb SWINGING AT THE
Portsmouth PO1 2DD Box Office:
COTTON CLUB 7.30pm
023 9264 9000
Albert Road, Southsea PO5 2QJ,
www.newtheatreroyal.com
£10 St Lukes Church Hall, Greetham Street Wed 7 Dec COFFEE MORNING FOR PEOPLE AFFECTED BY CANCER 10am-12noon FREE Portsmouth Central Library Thu 8 Dec SPEED DATING, PORTSMOUTH (FOR AGES 37-52) 7.30-10pm (last entry 7.45pm) £22 Min age 18 Spice Island Inn Thu 8 Dec MICHAEL BUBLE TRIBUTE NIGHT 7pm £42pp including 3 course festive meal Portsmouth Marriott Hotel Sat 10 Dec GHOST HUNT 8pm £30 Fort Widley
Box Office: 023 9282 8282 kingsportsmouth.co.uk
New Theatre Royal
OTHER EVENTS Sat 3 Dec CHRISTMAS MURDER
Fri 9 - Sat 31 Dec SANTA CLAUS -
MYSTERY AT THE MANOR
THE MUSICAL times and prices vary
7.15pm £45 including 3 course
Sat 14 Jan BURGLAR BILL 2pm
meal Wymering Manor
Wed 25 Jan EVOLVE: CUPCAKES
Sat 3 - Sun 4, Sat 10 - Sun11, Sat
AND CHARLESTON PARENT
17 - Sat 24 Dec WATERCRESS
WORKSHOP 6.30pm FREE
LINE SANTA SPECIAL £18 U16
Fri 27 & Sat 28 Jan FLUVIAL: A
£10 Babies under 1 year £10
CELEBRATION OF
www.watercressline.co.uk
Cont’d p.53
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Sun 11 Dec PORTSMOUTH PHILHARMONIA 3pm £5 Church of the Resurrection, Drayton Sun 11 Dec 2016 UNBEATABLE CAR FAMILY SANTA FUN RUNSSouthsea Sea Front Festive Mile – 9am Ad £10, U16 £6, 10K – 9.40am With santa suit £23, without £20, RNLI 5K – 11.30am With santa suit Ad £18 Ch 8-16 years £12 U8 £8, without suit Ad £15, Ch 8-16 £9, U8 £5 Mon 12 Dec PORTSMOUTH JAZZ – CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 7.15pm Inn Lodge, Burrfields Rd Mon 12 Dec TALKS by Timothy Brown & Lorimer Burn 7.30pm Arun & Chichester Air Enthusiasts Society, non-members £5 Chichester Park Hotel Tue 13 Dec PRIMAL SCREAM at 7.30pm £29.25 Pyramids Centre Thu 15 Dec GARY BARLOW TRIBUTE NIGHT £42pp including 3
course festive meal Portsmouth Marriott Hotel Thu 15 Dec REEF 7.30pm £22 Pyramids Centre Fri 16 Dec EMBRACE 7pm £23.10 Pyramids Centre Sat 17 Dec SOUTHSEA CASTLE’S CHRISTMAS CRACKER 3-9pm FREE Sat 17 - Sun18 Dec THE FRANK & DEAN SHOW CHRISTMAS PARTY 7pm £30 Pyramids Centre Sun18 Dec OPEN STUDIOS @ HOTWALLS STUDIOS Hotwalls Studios, Old Portsmouth PO1 2FS www.hotwallsstudios.co.uk Sun 18 Dec PORTSMOUTH COASTAL WATERSIDE MARATHON 9am £39 start @ The Pyramid Centre, Southsea Thu 22 Dec THE REFLEX SET 8pm £10-15 Coastguard Studio Clarendon Rd PO4 OSA fatsoma.com/ApreSki Fri 23 Dec LAUGH OUT LOUD
COMEDY CL UB 8pm £15 (Min age 16) Pyramids Centre Mon 26 - Tue 27 Dec CHRISTMAS LEAVE – EXPERIENCE CHRISTMAS ON A WWII RAILWAY Ad £17, 2-16yrs £9 Under 2 FREE Watercress Line Sat 31 Dec Enclosure NEW YEARS EVE PARTY 5pm-3am £20 Tiger Tiger Mon 16 Jan PORTSMOUTH JAZZ – GARETH LOCHRANE QUARTET 7.15pm £15 Inn Lodge, Burrfields Road Wed 18 Jan LORD MAYOR’S COFFEE MORNING 10am £3 Banqueting Room, Portsmouth Guildhall Mon 23 Jan FLYING/DISPLAYING VINTAGE JETS Talk by Rod Dean 7.30pm Arun & Chichester Air Enthusiasts Society, non-members £5 Chichester Park Hotel Details of Christmas events happening in the Hampshire area can be found at SL. www.visit-hampshire.co.uk
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COPING WITH LOSS AT CHRISTMAS Dr Gemima Fitzgerald Clinical Psychologist Rowans Hospice
“Happy Christmas!” - a lovely sentiment, but for people who have experienced a significant loss, Christmas is often a difficult time. A time of year that’s filled with high expectations to be ‘perfect’: the perfect decorations, food, presents, and perfect family times with loved ones. Christmas is a time when loneliness can hurt more than ever and if this Christmas is particularly difficult because you are grieving the death of a loved one, it may help to find a way to remember the one you love in a way that feels special and helps you to stay feeling connected in some way. Death ends a life, not a relationship and there are lots of ways to continue to have a bond with them. • Talk about the person with others • Visit somewhere special that had meaning for both of you. • Don’t be afraid to talk aloud to the person. • Write a poem or letter to the person who died, expressing your thoughts • Memory boxes can be a good way to stay
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connected. • Lighting a candle for your loved one can be a beautiful way to remember them. One way to remember your loved one and join with others who also miss someone, is to take part in the Lake of Lights event.Organised by Rowans Hospice the event is open to everyone who remembers someone special, whether or not they have been cared for at Rowans. If you are missing someone this Christmas,be kind to yourself and try not to feel that you should rush your grief. Some memories might trigger different emotions: distress, sadness, regret, but also sometimes a smile – these are perfectly normal. It’s ok not to be ok I hope that in amongst any sadness this Christmas, you find some moments of beauty and even laughter too. If you would like to join with others who want to remember loved ones, Rowans Hospice would love to welcome you at the Lake of Lights on Friday 16th December at Canoe Lake.
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51 Rowan Ct, Goldsmith Ave, Southsea PO4 8UT T: 02392 352657 | 07886 576433 E: hooperlandscapes@hotmail.co.uk www.hooperlandscapes.co.uk
55
FABULOUS FRATTON THINGS TO DO NORTH OF ALBERT ROAD
T
Sophie Wood, Journalism student at the University of Portsmouth
here’s more to Fratton than just football
3D, life-like portraits of celebrities and
and Asda. It’s full of its own special
symmetrical Hindu patterns.
delights. Here are some of my favourite
Now that Christmas is around the corner,
places to go.
you may be getting bored of mince pies and
If you’re looking for a chilled coffee and cake
roast dinners, so why not try some Turkish
date, head for the Makers’ Merchant and inside you’ll find the Magpies’ Café with lovely relaxed seating, lunch, afternoon tea and a small children’s area with books and toys. You can join their free “Slice of Make”
dishes at Istanbul Grill, including kebabs, burgers, fish, vegetarian options and even a children’s menu. The fast food take-away service is well known for its delicious Istanbul Express pizza and curry sauce.
class every Wednesday between 7-9:30pm and learn new recipes. Walk further along Fawcett Road and you’ll come to Baffled Coffee - known for its unusual Cuban themed sandwich and quirky vibe. It’s filled with orange cushions and chairs, alongside rustic un-finished wood effect fixtures. Just sit and watch the world go by on Fawcett Road. If you’ve had enough sweets and caffeine, take a trip down memory lane in Portsmouth’s music legend, Nick Courtney’s Sweet Memories Photo: Paul Windsor
Vinyl Records and flick through favourites from the 1960-90s, typically ranging between £612. From Reggae, Soul, Motown and Blues to Punk, Country and Jazz. More artistic types can commission some permanent memories at Fratton’s best piercing
And finally for that special Christmas gift,
and tattoo studio Body Images. It’s known for
Fratton Model Centre’s shelves are stacked
its highly talented artists that create amazing,
with miniature-world toys from Hornby train
original tattoos from vague, last-minute ideas.
sets to remote-controlled boats (ideal for
Their highly recommended artist, Kirk, creates
Canoe Lake on Boxing day).
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SING FOR CYSTIC FIBROSIS
The Alternative Choir at this Summer’s Victorious Festival
T
he Southsea Alternative Choir have made quite a tradition of their Christmas-fundraising exploits since
the band played their first gigs during Christmas 2011. This year, the Southsea eight-piece will play a special one-off gig at The Wedgewood Rooms on Saturday
17th December. Doors open at 8.00pm.
Photo: Paul Windsor
It’s been another busy year for The Southsea Alternative Choir, including six sets at Victorious Festival and the band’s participation in the Great South Run. The octet have now raised over £12,000 for charity since their formation five years ago. This Christmas they’re raising money for local children’s charity CFK, which supports
Billed as ‘The Southsea Alternative Choir &
children with cystic fibrosis.
Friends’, the evening will include a host
Tickets for the gig are £10, available from
of well known Portsmouth musicians, (yet to
The Wedgewood Rooms’ box office, with
be announced)..
proceeds donated to the charity. 57