Southsea Lifestyle - Dec / Jan 2019/20 by Salad Publishing

December 2019 / January 2020

Southsea CELEBRATING 15 YEARS IN PRINT

Lifestyle

FESTIVITIES AND PLANS FOR 2020 AT THE QUEENS HOTEL

Page 9

Photo: Johnny Black

GD3 PROPERTY Industry Experts Local Staff Local Knowledge Customer Focused Competitively Priced

STUDENT PROPERTIES REQUIRED GD3 Property are now taking Tenant registrations for the next academic year.

Secure your Tenantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now! Contact us today for your Valuation

BIG SAVINGS ON AMTICO, KARNDEAN & WOOD PLANKS AND QUICKSTEP LAMINATES!

GREENDALE, CRUCIAL TRADING AND SUPER SOFT CARPETS

20%

DISCO

OF ALUNT STOC L K RUG S

2013

CONTRIBUTORS Kate Thompson is a Southsea writer with a passion for uncovering quirky human interest stories

John Worsey is Marketing Creative Copywriter at the University of Portsmouth

Emma Beatty teaches journalism at the University of Portsmouth. She has lived in Southsea for thirteen years, and has two children

Neil Maxwell is director of Fry & Kent Estate Agents, and a volunteer crew member of the RNLI

Tamara Gillingham is a recent graduate from the University of Portsmouth and is an aspiring writer. www.spillingteawithtamara.com

Maricar Jagger is Events Officer at The University of Portsmouth

Southsea Lifestyle Produced by Salad Publishing Ltd Editor: Kevin John Dean Editorial assistant: Kai Austin Dean Creative Director: Zirrinia Austin Dean Social media: Urban Salt Web design: Daniel Sweeney What’s on listings: Sophie McCue

CONTENTS 14 WELCOME HOME 16 BUCKING THE TREND 24 STARS IN HER EYES 26 KEEPING FIT SHOULD START AT SCHOOL 32 SOUTHSEA’S FIRST CONCEPT STORE 34 SHOPPING LOCAL AT CHRISTMAS 36 FESTIVE DRINKS RECIPE 38 LIFE’S NEVER A DRAG WITH THE FABULOUS MISS G 42 STREET TALK - CLIMATE CHANGE 43 TIME TO GO GREEN OR AT LEAST TRY TO... 46 WHAT’S IN A NAME 55 THE SOUTHSEA LIFESTYLE ANNIVERSARY 58 A CHRISTMAS GHOST ON PALMERSTON ROAD 61 AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE 64 CULTURE VULTURE

36 34

couldn’t understand all the fuss about the election being held in December, as though we would have to cancel Christmas, or cross frozen wastelands to cast our vote. In Southsea at least, we just have to pop into the church hall or school room down the road, mark an X with a stubby pencil and it’s done. A bit of an anti-climax really after all the political wrangling, but I find it fascinating, a bit like a Greek drama, with a touch of the East Enders thrown in. Whoever you vote for, I just hope the UK becomes a less fractious, happier country in the new year. One topic that all parties are finally taking seriously is climate change - thanks for all the positive comments we received after our last issue. We have continued the theme on p.42, by asking members of the public about how they are trying to mitigate their impact on the environment. John Worsey has written his annual Christmas story, with the help of Portsmouth’s very own Charles Dickens, p.58. And before you go, it’s Southsea Lifestyle’s 15-year anniversary in January. Many thanks to you, our lovely readers, our advertisers, writers, deliverers and a special mention of Holbrooks our printers, we couldn’t have made it so far without you. Zirrinia talks about how she started the magazine on p.55.

Kevin John Dean

CALLING ALL BUSINESS OWNERS

Southsea Lifestyle is the only lifestyle magazine delivered to people’s homes across the city. Affordable advertising rates and a loyal readership, no wonder 75% of our advertisers have been with us for 2 years or more. Just request a media pack. Call: 07981 867826 e: info@southsealifestyle.com www.southsealifestyle.com The next edition’s deadline is 9th January and is published on 1st February.

Like us on

CROWNING GLORY FOR SOUTHSEA’S ICONIC QUEENS HOTEL

mbitious plans that will see the Queens Hotel saved as a 104-bedroom hotel at the heart of Southsea have been unveiled – and now it's your chance to say what you think. When Managing Director Farid Yeganeh and a consortium of investors took over the hotel, they inherited existing planning permission for a 22 bedroom boutique hotel arranged over the basement, ground and first floors, and 98 apartments - including 30 residential units on the remaining second, third and fourth floors of the hotel, and a separate block of 38 flats on ground next to Home Heights. As part of those plans, city planners have given the green light for: ● Two new shops in Osborne Road - one of which will be a cafe where top pastry chefs will create delicious confections for the cafe and hotel ● 30 new apartments on Osborne Road ● A new destination spa in the basement of the hotel with a leisure pool ● Conference facilities ● Ornate new entrances for the conference rooms and the apartment owners Agreement has also been reached with

Portsmouth City Council to remove the requirement for social housing within the development plans. Having lived and breathed the Queens Hotel for the past two years, Farid is now looking to safeguard the majority of the building as a hotel with just six penthouse apartments. Farid explained: “I see myself as a custodian of this beautiful building, and I want to do all I can to keep her as a hotel for future generations to enjoy. “The desire is to have up to 104 bedrooms, and for her to be Southsea’s premier four star hotel.” An application has been lodged with the city council which would see the currently derelict fourth floor brought back into use for the hotel, and a fifth floor and new roof added. “We’d love to hear what local people think of the plans. Southsea residents do seem to have taken the work we have done so far to their hearts, and we have had a lot of compliments. “As we roll out our plans for the crowning glory of the Queens Hotel, it would be great to know that local people are fully behind us,” said Farid. You can share your views on our social media channels or by emailing info@queenshotelportsmouth.com

2020 SET TO BE AN EXCITING YEAR AT THE QUEENS HOTEL

he next phase of work to transform the Queens Hotel gets underway in 2020, and Director Paul Stewart is looking forward to the next stage of the journey. “We are going to enter a whole new phase of refurbishment, and once it is completed, it will take us to another level in terms of the business growing,” he enthused.

when I decided to take a career break and that’s when we started talking about the Queens Hotel again.” he explained. Paul and his wife Zhanna, her son Tymur, and their daughter Angelina, wanted to be near London, and after a visit to Portsmouth, they decided to make their home in the city. “I was struck by three things. There was the Queens Hotel and the building itself, which is magnificent.

“We will see work start on the refurbishment of the basement, the new shop fronts on Osborne Road, the restaurant and bar, as well as the kitchen on the ground floor and basement.

“Having spent time with Farid and the circle of people around him who provide a layer of expertise, I was happy to go into business with him.

“While all that is going on, we will have submitted our application for the penthouses … so there certainly is plenty to look forward to in 2020.” Since moving to Portsmouth in 2018, Paul has become more hands on with the project, but he explained his interest in the hotel began in 2012.

“And finally, I could see that Portsmouth and Southsea was a pretty nice place to be, with a great deal of potential,” he said.

“I met my fellow Director, Farid in 2012, and we became friends. He told me he had been looking at a hotel in Southsea, but it wasn’t until 2015 that the conversation really took off. “My background is in the oil and gas industry. I’ve worked for more than 25 years starting in the North Sea, and the work has taken me to a lot of places, including West Africa, the Middle East, and North America. “I spent 14 years in Dubai and I was living there 10

Valuable lessons have been learned already on the project, but it is the response from visitors to the hotel which has given Paul the belief to carry on.

Paul Stewart. Photo: Johnnie

Paul said: “It has been a little more challenging at times than we expected, but I’ve learnt it takes time, patience and perseverance. “The positive response from the public coming into the hotel has made it all worthwhile. “They’ve noticed the changes, and it is great to see people coming to the Queens who have never been here before, and many who are rediscovering her all over again.”

SERVICE WITH A GREAT BIG SMILE

inding the right team to ensure a stay at the Queens Hotel is the best it can possibly be has been a vital part of the overall transformation. “Our staff have such an important part to play in the story of the transformation of the Queens Hotel. From the welcome you receive at the reception desk, to the cocktail that is created for you at the bar, and how clean and tidy your

room is on arrival, all of these details help to create the right first impression. “Our aim is for everyone working at the hotel to really love the Queens and to help to make this the best place in Southsea to work.

“It really is a team effort, with everyone working together to make a stay at the cont’d p.13

L to R front row: Jazmine Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;souza - housekeeping supervisor; Sean Richardson - accounts manager; Sue Parmiter - duty manager; Paul Stewart - director; Farid Yeganeh - managing director; Carson, the dog; Natalie Roy - events assistant; Matthieu Pagniez - food & beverage team leader; Rumina Begum - receptionist. L to R back row: Amanda Gilmore - operations manager; Aina Sutka - social media co-ordinator; Karen Macarthur - hr/administrator. Photo Johnnie Black

Like us on

Queens Hotel the best it can possibly be,” explained Director Farid Yeganeh. Reservations Manager, Jason Wilson, has been working at the Queens Hotel for 13 years, and he is delighted by the improvements he is seeing on a daily basis. “It is so exciting to see the transformation happening and the beautiful rooms we are now able to offer our guests,” he said. “But the best part about all the changes is the response we are getting from customers. “Some of them have been coming here for as long as I have been working here – one couple who came at Christmas have been visiting us for 25 years – and they all absolutely love the changes that are happening.” Anyone booking into the Queens Hotel can’t help but be bowled over by the warm welcome they receive from receptionist Rumina Begum. She started working at the hotel in December 2018, and it didn’t take her long to fall for the charms of the beautiful building and pick up the skills needed for her new role. “I just love the Queens. She has a personality all of her own. My Mum and Dad stayed here when I was a baby, and growing up in Portsmouth, I have known her all my life,” she said. Rumina graduated from the University of Portsmouth with a degree in International Business and she is now looking forward to putting her qualification to work. Her professionalism and attention to detail have not gone unnoticed and Rumina was delighted when she was told the hotel was really keen to nurture her skills in a business development role.

“I’m so pleased I am going to be able to progress my career at the hotel and for my first project I am working on the introduction of a new booking system which will revolutionise the way we do things here,” she said. Training is an important part of the strategy. Operations Manager Amanda Gilmore has brought a wealth of experience running an officers’ mess for the Royal Navy to the Queens Hotel. She has shared her attention for detail along with the importance of friendly and helpful service. The Queens cocktail bar has been transformed by Matthieu Pagniez and Miraslav Mirchev (known to all as Super Mario), who undertook an intensive threeday training with cocktail–maker extraordinaire, Stefano Di Carlo, at his famous bar in Majorca. Matthieu said: “I don’t know how to say thank you enough to Mr Farid and the Queens Hotel as well as Stefano and his team. “This experience was amazing, and very helpful with our job at the Queens Hotel. “When we came back, we just wanted to share everything with our team, and try to share the passion like they did at the LAB. Thank you ...” More staff have been to the Spanish holiday isle for specialist training, and Farid explained the importance of investing in top class training for his staff. ‘’It has been an absolute pleasure to watch Matthieu and Mario push their boundaries, work very hard, and to see them putting their new skills into action. I feel like they ‘own the bar’ now, and I couldn’t be more excited to see them evolve,’’ said Farid. 13

WELCOME HOME

A life-changing experience for Chris and Dee, Kate Thompson reports.

hen Chris and Dee decided to have a new kitchen, they had little idea of how it would transform their lives. The busy executives who live in a conservation area at the heart of Southsea turned to Mark Johnson and the expert team at Beau-Port kitchens in Marmion Road to make their dream a reality. And the result has revolutionised the way the couple now live. “We knew what we wanted, but we weren’t entirely sure it would work,” said Chris. “We wanted a much more social space where we could eat with friends. “And what we have now has surpassed our expectations.”

Since they moved into their home 14 years ago, the couple have decorated and invested in new windows more in keeping with the age and style of their home. They re-instated fireplaces and Chris created a utility room. Dee explained they had been thinking about having a new kitchen for some time, and if the space would allow, they were keen to have a central island. Work began in January 2019, and within six weeks, they had a workable kitchen that was completely finished by May. “I was really impressed by Mark’s attention to detail – things were measured to the millimetre.

The kitchen is in the basement of their Victorian home, and before the transformation, the couple admitted they didn’t spend much time there. But now they come home and are instantly drawn to the new heart of their home. “We can sit and chat as we prepare the meal – and on a Sunday afternoon we often both sit here with our laptops as we prepare for the week ahead.

He also came up with ingenious ideas that we wouldn’t have considered or even known about,” said Chris.

“I was a little concerned that such a modern kitchen might feel a little cold and clinical. Mark has worked hard on the lighting and I think that has helped to make the space feel warm and inviting.

The futuristic looking kitchen has a central island with under-counter lighting that makes it glow. Space was at a premium; and the extractor fan, which discreetly rises from the counter with a touch of a button, is both practical and pleasing.

“We have taken our time to find the right seating for the central island and other furniture for the seating area, and it has been worth taking a more considered view. We were investing a lot and we didn’t want to be rushed into buying items that we ended up not liking.

The ovens are wi-fi enabled; so the evening meal can be heated using the same technology as Hive heating.

“I can honestly say that having this kitchen really has transformed the way we live – we live differently now,” added Dee. 15

BUCKING THE TREND

Neil Maxwell

ith so many things in a state of flux at the moment, I was very intrigued by figures for Portsmouth that show that this year’s house prices have increased by 1% in our area. But what does this actually mean for those people looking to buy or sell at the moment? It should be remembered that an asking price is subject to negotiation, and it either suits you to accept the offer and you get moving, or it doesn’t. We haven’t seen many offers that have been far off the asking price in recent months. And we have only seen one significant ‘down valuation’ by a surveyor, which was overturned on appeal. The reality is, at the moment most people are committed, because they have to buy or sell for a plethora of personal, and professional reasons. These buyers are a joy to work with, because they have timelines to meet, and want to conclude the transaction. On the other hand, there are always a few people who seem to delay and pontificate, normally with a wealth of non-committal excuses, but that can often be a symptom of stress and uncertainty.

A local firm of solicitors we deal with regularly, told me that this year, there are 6 times as many people trying to complete before Christmas as at this time last year. Which is encouraging, but I think any plans for partying, at what can often be a fairly quiet time for law firms will have to be put on hold. This is all against a national back drop of a 1% drop in house prices, which has made the headlines in the press. The figures when you consider them nationally, are really a reflection of less property coming onto the market, and doubtless Brexit, and the election have played a part in people hesitating to commit to moving. So why has the Portsmouth area bucked the national trend? In my opinion it’s all down to supply and demand with very few new houses being built locally, which puts pressure on the existing housing stock. It’s my feeling that property prices in Portsmouth will continue to remain strong, whatever happens politically in 2020. Seasons greetings to all, with many thanks to those of you we have had the pleasure of dealing with this year - and we look forward to seeing you next year.

OLD PORTSMOUTH – FROM MODERN TO STEEPED IN HISTORY! HIGH STREET, OLD PORTSMOUTH - £700,000 EPC C

• One of 3 townhouses built in 2000, on 4 floors; study/fifth bedroom, cloakroom and garden room/fourth bedroom with en-suite shower room on the ground floor plus a kitchen/dining room and living room opening on to the Garden. • 2 double bedrooms on the 2nd floor, with bathroom. On the top floor, the master bedroom features a separate dressing area, en-suite and dual aspect balconies; with fantastic views. Outside a walled garden with garage and parking

BATHING LANE, OLD PORTSMOUTH - £850,000 EPC TBC

• ‘Mews Style’ former boathouse on a cobbled lane. Lovingly transformed, features a gorgeous, first floor, open plan living room which combines both the raised dining and kitchen areas under exposed beams. • 3 bedrooms on the ground floor all with en-suites. An impressive master bedroom, featuring a glass wall overlooking an internal courtyard. • The main inner courtyard is approached via French windows from either the living room or kitchen and offers private outdoor space.

GRAND PARADE, OLD PORTSMOUTH - £799,000 EPC RATING: EXEMPT

• Grade ll listed residence in this historic location overlooking Grand Parade and enjoying stunning views from upper floors. • A plethora of original features over 4 spacious floors which includes a 21ft kitchen/family room, dining room, bedroom and courtyard on the ground floor. • A master bedroom with a balcony overlooking Grand Parade, plus 2 further bedrooms, with en-suites on the first floor and a utility room, a 20ft living room with access to the roof terrace on the second floor.

The Omega Art School Have you always wanted to paint and draw?

Whether you are a complete beginner, or a more experienced artist, now is the time to join our new, weekly art classes

Choose either a morning or afternoon class on Thursdays, from January - March 2020, followed by a further term from April July 2020

Your tutors: Kevin Dean, Jacqui Mair, Sadie Tierney and Chris Wood are all professional artists and experienced tutors DRAWING - WATERCOLOUR - ACRYLICS - PRINTMAKING MATERIALS SUPPLIED - AFFORDABLE FEES Everyone welcome, but class sizes are limited, so please email: omegaprintmakers@gmail.com or call Kevin Dean: 07981 867826 without delay for a detailed programme and booking details.

Omega Centre 2 Omega Street Southsea PO5 4LP 18

Southsea Lifestyle

Helping local businesses grow for the past 15 years If you would like to join them, ask for our media pack today

Like us on

STEP INTO A CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA AT DESIGN HOUSE SOUTHSEA and meet our enchanting reindeer, elves and Santas. We even have an almost life size letter box and hand made wicker Christmas trees.

Plus gifts for all ages and tastes, from soft toys, to candles, ceramics, cards and pictures. Everything youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d want for Christmas and more, all in one beautiful shop.

55-57 Marmion Road Southsea PO5 2AT Tel/Fax 02392 838038 www.designhousesouthsea.co.uk 20

Like us on

WELLBEING OVER CHRISTMAS TIME

mma Gotz, from Thrive with Style and Claire Harris from A-Z Health have teamed up their services to provide readers with some ‘inside out’ health and wellbeing knowhow for the busy festive season. Emma is a style and life coach and Claire is a nutritionist, health and wellness advisor. Here, they share their favourite joint tips and have an invitation to all readers for Saturday 7th December 1-4pm and Saturday 18 th January 1-4pm at Southsea Chiropractic Clinic, 86 Marmion Road, Southsea PO5 2BB.

Claire and Emma

KEY TIPS - FOR SUSTAINING YOUR DAILY WELLBEING BE KIND TO YOURSELF - THIS IS ABOUT UNDERSTANDING YOURSELF EMMA – Practice ‘self-care’. Check your Botanical facials and body care with A-Z Health internal voice when it’s saying unkind things; talk to yourself the way you would a friend. CLAIRE – This is about your feelings and how you can best help yourself in any situation, such as reminding yourself how you want to feel after foods. This is being gently more mindful so you can positively steer your actions and therefore the outcomes.

LISTEN TO YOUR BODY - OUR INSTINCTS ARE PRECIOUS AND FREE EMMA – Focus on the things you like about yourself and emphasize them – these things make you feel positive not negative. CLAIRE – Prioritise what matters to you. If you are more comfortable you can better enjoy the moment. So help determine what matters to you, follow your instincts and trust it will happen more easily.

REMEMBER YOU HAVE RELATIVE CHOICES - TRUST IN THESE EMMA – Don’t feel pressure to buy a new outfit for each party or event, think about a ‘neutral’ dress and mix and match accessories. Have fun! 22

CLAIRE – No matter the situation, there will be relative choice in anything we do – from how we perceive a pressure, to the way we react, and more practically how long we react for. Over Christmas time, try learning to let to go of stressful things more swiftly – see how that feels!

GRATITUDE - THINK OF THE GOOD THINGS, SEE YOUR BLESSINGS! EMMA – Feeling nervous about a social occasion – try a power pose and practice a few conversations in your head before you get there! CLAIRE – Treasure a good moment, a helping hand, people in your life, laughter... Keep inspired by others’ endeavors, yet know purpose is in very simple things too.

Advice and tips on: Digestive health and nutritional care, therapies for gut issues. Massage treatments for nerve / muscular complaints or acute / chronic pains. Style and life coaching, learning to feel good about yourself inside and out and discover what feels truly right for YOU. Confidence coaching for life or a particular event / occasion. Aromatherapy, reflexology, facials which are 100% botanical, spa-graded and artisan blended. Bringing you honest, truly holistic skincare for life. Organic waxing treatments, make up tutorials and our guest professional hairdresser Carole Bennett.

NEW YEAR TIPS - Everything has meaning and purpose if we choose to see it, so enjoy the little things. Often a warm heart and a sense of humour are two of the best antidotes to daily pressures or upsets. Mind, body and soul first aid - a grateful perspective, a hopeful heart and a good sense of humour. To find out more about how to assist or better discover your own wellbeing, be it over the festive season or for the New Year. Join, Claire, Emma and a team of like minded professionals, for an afternoon full of personalised advice, top tips and demos. They also have an up and coming ‘Wellbeing Club’ with special monthly or annual ’Inside and Out’ offers to tell you about. If you would like to reserve a space at the event you can go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/maintaining-health-and-wellbeing-during-thefestive-season-and-beyond-tickets-82372463255 or for more info about Emma’s services visit www.thrivewithstyle.com or for Claire’s services visit www.atozhealth.co.uk 23

STARS IN HER EYES

Maricar Jagger, Events Officer at The University of Portsmouth

en Gupta spent her teenage years hanging out in the Wedgewood Rooms, listening to bands. It wasn’t just the music she loved. It was the physics behind it – from how the vibration of guitar strings create music, to why her own flute has the shape it does. As a kid, she wanted to be an astronaut. But falling half an inch shorter than the height requirement, she took off instead for Manchester and an undergraduate degree in Astrophysics. After completing her PhD at Jodrell Bank, she felt the gravitational pull of home. The stars aligned for her when a job at the University of Portsmouth’s Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation (ICG) came up.

young people, especially women, to study physics. Over the past seven years, Jen has brought her love of science to over 30,000 school children and members of the public. She’s always looking out for who’s missing from the physics world, and exploring ways to make physics a subject everyone can be a part of. In summer 2019, together with comedian Alice Fraser, she co-presented Stranger Than Sci-Fi on BBC Radio 4. Featuring interviews with science fiction authors and science advisers in the movies, the programme looks at the real science in works of fiction, and how each influence the other. Alice’s background in law gave Jen the chance to learn more about the ethics of scientific topics such as artificial wombs. This gave Jen, who was pregnant at the time, a lot of food for thought – should we do things just because science makes them possible? Since the birth of her daughter, Jen has been thinking more about what kind of a world she’ll grow up to live in. Jen feels we’re at a tipping point, with the country divided and politics polarised. It’s important to keep asking big questions – and reaching for the stars. Jen certainly knows how to bring out questions people haven’t even thought of before. And she’s an expert at linking scientific questions to the universe we all live in.

As Public Engagement & Outreach Manager at the ICG – which is one of the nation’s leading physics departments – Dr Jen runs science activities in the community, and helps researchers develop new ways to engage the public with their research.

Every January, Jen and colleagues hold the Stargazing event at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. It’s a chance for anyone to find out more about scientists’ research and learn more about the universe. You can see amazing discoveries about stars, our planet, and the solar system, including how sailors used the night skies to navigate their ships.

“I’m passionate about opening out physics and astrophysics to people who don’t feel it’s for them,” says Jen. So she does a lot in schools to encourage

To find out more about Stargazing on 29 January and other events organised by the University of Portsmouth, go to www.port.ac.uk/events.

Dr. Jen Gupta

A LIFELONG COMMITMENT TO KEEPING FIT SHOULD START AT SCHOOL

Jane Prescott, Headmistress Portsmouth High School GDST

ur interest in physical activity is often developed

struggled with sport at school.

at school, and therefore it is important that during

As adolescent bodies change, being mindful that pupils may feel embarrassed of their development is important for PE teachers. Allowing students to wear clothing that is appropriate and comfortable is essential, and sport uniform needs to take this into account.

a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education the experience of sport is

made enjoyable. Not all school sport appeals to all pupils and for some, who find working in teams challenging or close contact uncomfortable, it is likely they leave school with a negative view of their physical education lessons. It is important that all adults manage to combine a healthy diet with exercise, and yet once in employment it can be difficult to make time. It is crucial that the sport on offer at school leads to a lifelong commitment to keeping physically fit. If students do not enjoy their games lessons, they are unlikely to seek out ways to keep fit later in life. A couple of years ago, our speaker at our sport awards evening, a former pupil, was working as a junior doctor. She found shift patterns were not always easy to combine with a training routine, but she made time to swim regularly in the sea and train for a triathlon. Her message was clear. It will take effort and it needs to be made a priority. Schools can help develop an interest in sport that leads to a life of activity. Whilst younger children learn the traditional team games of hockey, netball, rugby and football, for example, as they develop they should be offered the option of different sports such as dance and working out in a gym. I know so many people of all ages that have developed a love of running as adults, and enter 10 kilometre races and even marathons, yet

Keeping children fit is not wholly the responsibility of school. Encouraging youngsters to walk more rather than being driven everywhere is a natural way of keeping physically active. Going to play parks that encourage using equipment that develops young muscles is good too. Playing family games on the beach, in the park and even in the back garden is positive physical activity. Electronic games and digital screens occupy children well, and as a result it has become easier to allow children to lead sedentary lives. Childhood has changed, and there are some positives about the digital revolution in that children may have stored many more books on their devices than they could ever keep on a book shelf and games can be educational as well as fun. However, if children are to grow into adults that seek out activity opportunities, with all its benefits socially and physically, we must ensure we all play our part in making sport accessible and enjoyable. This means being less worried about specialist sports kit, having a range of sports available, and being aware of body changes that may make sport uncomfortable.

Like us on

“

There are times in all our lives, personal and work, when we cannot quite see the wood for the trees, when we know where we would like to be but cannot find a way of getting there. More often than not, we do actually have the solutions to overcome the barriers that are in front of us but may lack the belief and confidence in making positive decisions.” It is the firm belief of Peter Hopkinson – Southsea resident, husband, father, former Headteacher, and dog walker – that coaching is the key to unlocking the potential we all have to make the positive decisions that will enable us to live and work better.

good folk of Southsea and Portsmouth.” “We often fall short of achieving our personal and work goals for different reasons: lack of confidence, fear of what others might think, fear of failure. This is all completely normal,” Peter explains. “In fact, through coaching, these limiting factors can be turned into positives, and help us really understand where we are, what’s stopping us from achieving our goals, and then to be decisive about what happens next.” Peter spent thirty years in education, specialising and gaining a national qualification in coaching with the Institute of Leadership and Management. “Coaching is a supportive and transformational approach to helping people improve their lives, enabling them to find solutions and develop clear paths to happiness, wellbeing and success. If any of Southsea Lifestyle’s readers think that coaching might be helpful, then they can contact me for a free consultation.” Blue Moon Coaching offers both Life and Business coaching and is completely bespoke; further details of their coaching packages and how to arrange a free initial consultation may be found on their website: www.bluemooncoaching.com

Peter Hopkinson

“I set up Blue Moon Coaching as I had seen at first hand the incredibly positive impact coaching had on the personal and professional lives of the people I worked with in education, and I wanted to deliver the same positive impact to a wider community, in this case the

Peter Hopkinson will also be running an insightful and interactive workshop entitled ‘The Art of Possibility’ at the Google Garage on Commercial Road on 18th January 2020. It’s free of charge, but numbers are limited. To find our more and to book a place please go to: https://thear tofpossibilitypor tsmouth. eventbrite.co.uk 29

DRESS TO IMPRESS AT CREATIQUES

inding just the right outfit for that special occasion can be a challenge but help is at hand, thanks to the talented team at Creatiques. The multi-award winning bridal wear boutique is well known for its beautiful wedding dresses that will make any bride feel special. But they also stock a stunning range of motherof-the-bride outfits and occasion wear as well as elegant hats to add a stylish finishing touch. Co-owner Rob Pearce explained: “We are expanding our mother-of-the-bride and occasion wear range. “When you are the mother of the bride you have to realise that you will be the focal point, and we like to help mums to feel confident in

their outfits on the day.” Helping brides and their mothers to feel special is an important part of what the team at Creatiques love to deliver. “It can be a really emotional time when you choose your dress and over the years, we’ve done everything from driving brides to their weddings, putting ribbons on the car and even hand delivering a wedding dress to Guernsey. “We have brides who are still in touch with us. We now have a wonderful network of girls, and many of them have become true friends,” confided Rob. With the demise of Knight and Lee in Southsea and the impending closure of Debenhams, Rob

Photos: John Snowden

explained they were keen to offer an extended range of occasion-wear outfits. They will also be stocking prom dresses in 2020. “We will have the prom dresses available during the early part of next year. This is a new departure for us, but promwear is becoming a big part of our industry, and we were keen to develop our range. “Whatever the occasion we look forward to welcoming you at Creatiques,” said Rob. To book your appointment contact a member of the team in store. 02392 826622 or email: couture@creatiques.co.uk 31

A NEW SHOPPING EXPERIENCE AT SOUTHSEA’S FIRST CONCEPT STORE

Designer apparel, accessories, candles, bathing products, and ceramics to covet are all to be found at The Station. And an express make-up and hair styling station manned by some of the UK’s top MUA and hair stylists will put your hair up or add sparkle to your visage for just £20. Freya explained how the idea came about: “We started with the idea for the hair and make-up station, and then thought it would be good to work with other like-minded businesses who create beautiful products. 32

“We aim to provide a beautiful experience in the shop. We want to provide products that are unique, special, and can only be found in our boutique. We don’t sell online, we want people to come in and enjoy the experience of shopping away from their computers.” Brands at The Station include Atelier Morgan Marsh – ethical and sustainable clothes; Bertie Valentine – hand painted jackets; Blossom Boutique – dried flowers, pots and plants; Fury London – handmade boots; Freya Rose – shoes, jewellery and bags; Plum and Ashby – candles and bathing products; La Fleur de Chocolat – handmade chocolates and Nice Pear ceramics.

Photos: Dimples and Dasies

alented shoe designer Freya Rose is bringing a little bit of stylish chic to the heart of Southsea with the opening of The Station. Step into the delightful boutique in Grove Road South, which is also the head office for the glamorous mumpreneur’s global business, and you will find a curated range of British brands that share ethical and craftsmanship values.

Tina is no stranger to retail in Southsea. Her mother established a much-loved children’s wear boutique in Marmion Road – and she named the shop after her daughter. “When I go shopping with my mum in Waitrose in Southsea, we are constantly being stopped by people who wore the clothes my mother sold – they have very fond memories of those outfits,” said Tina.

Tina Morgan and Berrin Marsh launched their slow fashion brand Atelier Morgan Marsh a year ago. They are already winning plaudits and prizes - they were recently recognised by Junior magazine for their eco-fashion for children and their timeless pieces for ecoconscious women are turning heads.

Tina and Berrin had a hankering to set up their own brand, and when their children were old enough, they decided to take the plunge. “I’ve always had an interest in fashion, and as a child I loved touring the fabric factories with my mum, making outfits for my dolls with the off-cuts. “We very much endorse the idea of buying well and buying less,” she said. 33

SHOP LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS

here are so many good reasons to shop local this Christmas. But if you want one, or should we say two reasons to keep in mind before buying your gifts from Amazon – it’s the boarded up Knight & Lee and Debenhams, which will be closing soon. Not to mention all the other empty shops around town. Many of our readers are telling us they are doing all their Christmas shopping locally, and that it’s not difficult to find everything you need at our wonderful independent shops. It’s fun, it’s good exercise and we are helping to keep our high streets alive and vibrant. Here are a few examples to choose from:

ANDY’S MARITIME ANTIQUES A wide variety of inexpensive gifts for Christmas, ideal for someone who enjoys the great outdoors or for someone who likes adding camouflage to their wardrobe 2 & 2C Albert Road Southsea PO5 2SH

THE PORTSMOUTH DISTILLERY CO. Award winning handcrafted spirits available from The Portsmouth Distillery Co., buy online, pop into our shop or take a tour Fort Cumberland Southsea PO4 9LD 02392733339 www.theportsmouthdistillery.com

THE STATION AT FREYA ROSE A new concept store, with gorgeous unique products from independent traders, from designer apparel, accessories, candles, chocolates, flowers, jewellery and bathing products. You can also get express make up and hair styling for £20 12 Grove Road South Southsea PO5 3QT freyarose.com

BARBARA TIPPLE

LOVE SOUTHSEA

CHARLOTTE CORNELIUS

Bee lucky pendant - This exquisite bumble bee pebble pendant is artistically cast in silver with an 18ct yellow gold bee delicately poised on the edge. £315.00 + chain

The iconic Love Southsea insignia sweatshirt in glorious black and white, or white and black, comprised of two seaside swallows carrying an anchor and a heart.

Bubble Collection Pendant Links with fully traceable Diamonds, Sapphires, Emeralds, Tourmalines or Spinels from £270 each. Exclusive jewellery gifts expertly and carefully created in-house from £54 in Sterling Silver.

Love Southsea Market www.lovesouthsea.co.uk

87A Marmion Rd Southsea PO5 2AX charlottecornelius.co.uk

DESIGN HOUSE SOUTHSEA

MEDUSA HAIRDRESSING

15 Marmion Rd Southsea PO5 2AT www.barbaratipple.co.uk

SOUTHSEA BATHING HUT Transform your bath time with our Bath Time Gift Set. Handmade with gentle, natural and nourishing ingredients, create your own bathtime bliss. 2 & 2C Albert Road Southsea PO5 2SH www.southseabathinghut.co.uk

Alongside our comprehensive selection of furniture, soft furnishings, and home design service, we stock an amazing collection of Christmas decorations, soft toys and gifts. 55-57 Marmion Road Southsea PO5 2AT

A wide selection of KMS, Molton Brown & Cloud Nine Christmas gift ideas available at Medusa Hairdressing 74-76 Osborne Road Southsea PO5 3LU medusahairdressing.com

TRIFLE SERVE RECIPE – THE ALCHEMIST Gunwharf Quays’ newest bar and restaurant, The Alchemist, will be serving up an exciting array of festive-themed tipples in addition to its existing menu of expertly crafted cocktails this Christmas, including the sweet and creamy ‘Trifle Serve’.

INGREDIENTS

WHITE CHOCOLATE FOAM • Monin White chocolate syrup – 100ml • Whipping Cream – 350ml • Whole milk – 50ml 1 Combine all the ingredients together and pour into a foam cannister 2 Charge with a number two charger *If you don’t have a foam cannister, you can use whipped cream instead.

TRIFLE COCKTAIL •22.5ml Discarded Cascara • 22.5ml Martini Fiero • 25 ml red wine • 20ml Bristol Syrup Company Strawberry Shrub 1 Shake the Discarded Cascara, Martini Fiero, red wine, Bristol Syrup Strawberry Shrub and 30ml of white chocolate foam together in a cocktail shaker 2 Double strain the mixture into a coupe glass and top with the rest of the white chocolate foam or whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. 3 Enjoy!

Like us on

MULLED WINE RECIPE – BRASSERIE BLANC Nothing gets us in the mood for Christmas quite like the smell of warm mulled wine. So, to kick start the holiday season, Brasserie Blanc at Gunwharf Quays is letting you in on its ultimate seasonal recipe…

INGREDIENTS 1 litre red wine • 200ml orange juice • 200ml apple juice • 30ml brandy • 40g caster sugar • 1 cinnamon stick • 1 star anise – whole • 2 cardamom pods – crushed • 1 finger sized piece of fresh ginger – peeled and chopped • ½ orange – sliced • 1 Earl Grey teabag

1 2 3 4

Place all the ingredients into a large non-reactive saucepan Simmer for 40 minutes Strain and serve warm in a glass suitable for hot drinks Garnish with a slice of orange

LIFE’S NEVER A DRAG WITH THE FABULOUS MISS G Kate Thompson

And in that time his performances have raised around half a million pounds for good causes. “Over the years the show has changed, and I couldn’t do all this without the fabulous people around me. “It takes three months to prepare for a show. I make all my own costumes, and every time I say ‘This will be my last’, but then we get such fantastic feedback that I have to go on. “It’s not until the evening itself that the whole show comes together – we’ve all been preparing but the magic happens on the night.

As well as being a chance to fulfil his theatrical ambitions, the Fabulous Miss G has allowed him to give something back to the place he calls home. From Prostate Cancer awareness to the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, Andrew has been able to support their causes, and over the years he has donated many pieces of equipment to QA hospital. With RuPaul’s Drag Race UK introducing a whole new audience to drag, Andrew is delighted the art form is once more in the spotlight. “You used to have so many people on TV dressing up from Kenny Everett and Dick Emery to Lily Savage and Danny La Rue.

“I do get nervous and it’s exciting and exhausting, but always worth it.

“I’m not really on the circuit, and I don’t know if I would want to go through the trauma of appearing on Drag Race UK.

“We just held a show in November and sold 10 tables on the night for the next show,” explained Andrew.

“I prefer to do my shows here and raise money for causes that are close to my heart,” he said.

Photo: John Snowden

“

I don’t feel right until the lashes are on - and then I become Miss G,” confided Andrew Pearce. The successful Southsea businessman has been donning his glad rags to become his stage persona for 20 years.

ANDY’S MARITIME ANTIQUES Call into our fascinating warehouse in Vincent Road Southsea, with our ever changing stock of army surplus and maritime antiques.

Think outside the box this Christmas; we have a wide selection of potential gifts: gloves, hats, boots, jackets, and trousers. But how about something unique, a beautifully renovated mirror from a cruise liner, some WW11 binoculars, indoor or outdoor lamps, not to mention some very rare British Airways leather chairs in immaculate condition… Call in to see our amazing collection – just beyond the Marmion Road and Victoria Road South junction and discover something special this Christmas.

Don’t forget our other shop: 25 Charlotte St PO1 4AH (cadet outlet). Open 9-5 Mon - Sat, Sun 10 - 4. We also buy all maritime antiques, including ships’ clocks, diving helmets, named HMS ships’ bells, ships’ lamps and German binoculars. Feel free to call in: 10am-4.30pm 6 days a week at 29 St Vincent Road, Southsea PO5 2QR Tel 02392 753108 Andys Maritime Antiques Andys Army Surplus 39

THE ROYAL NAVAL CLUB AND ROYAL ALBERT YACHT CLUB

hen it comes to panoramic views and historic atmosphere you’d be hard pressed to find a better wedding venue in Hampshire than the Royal Naval Club and Royal Albert Yacht Club, in Old Portsmouth. Add first class catering, led by the aptly named head chef, Gary Cook, sole use of the club and bar, and even a ceremonial sword to cut the wedding cake and you have the perfect venue for your perfect day. The club offers 3 wedding packages at different price bands, offering either a daytime reception or an evening party - or both of course, or you might prefer a fully bespoke service? From a full silver service, to drinks and canapés in the Albert drawing room – overlooking Governor’s Green and the Solent. All dietary requirements are catered for, including a highly praised vegan menu.

And if you wanted to hold the ceremony in the same place as the reception, two of the beautiful period rooms, holding up to 100 people, are licensed for weddings. Before being converted to the Royal Naval Club and Royal Albert Yacht Club in 1876, the building was split into three, a bank, pub and a private residence. A tower was added by the club members, to take advantage of the panoramic views, today the building is considered to be one the city’s finest historic buildings. ‘People often think you have to be a club member to host a wedding, or any other event at the club said Tracy Cotton the club secretary, but in fact we welcome enquiries from everyone. It’s such a lovely venue, with such dedicated, friendly staff, we want to share it with more people in Portsmouth and the wider community.’ If you would like to have a chat with Sarah the wedding planner and maybe take a tour of the club, call: 02392 825931 or email: manager@rncrayc.co.uk or go www.rnc-rayc.co.uk

Photo: Matt Bull Photography

STREET TALK - CLIMATE CHANGE

T he climate emergency is making the headlines and politicians are pledging to tackle climate change in their election manifestos... but are members of the public doing anything about it themselves? We asked Southsea residents if they had made changes to their lives because of concerns about climate change? Here are some of the things they are doing to live more sustainably. Photos by Tara Barton-Leigh possible. And we are eating vegetarian meals 5 days a week.”

ANNA POTTEN “I shop locally and buy my milk from a dairy on Hayling Island, which I collect in a reusable glass bottle from Southsea Deli. I use a bamboo toothbrush and toothpaste in a glass jar from Wild Thyme. I’m a lifelong vegetarian, mainly for ecological reasons. I try to walk everywhere in town, and I’m careful not to buy synthetic clothes as I know the particles can easily get washed into the sea.”

CHRIS HORTON “We have a subscription box delivered to our home every month. Inside there are a selection of all-natural, non-toxic, home and personal care products.”

action, we all need to take responsibility for the environment. I gave up my car in 1999. I realised that I could manage without it, and I didn’t want the expense and responsibility of car ownership, plus parking is a problem in Southsea. I buy food locally, as I need it. I prefer to buy UK produce to avoid air miles, and I don’t buy products with excessive packaging. My clothes are from charity shops. I don’t like aerosols, as they add to climate change and poor air quality.”

IAIN GRAHAM “Living on such a flat

HOLLY “My family have tried to make lots of environmental changes; we use an eco laundry egg, which uses mineral pellets, without all the harmful chemicals in traditional detergents – and it saves money. We no longer use cling film or foil. We have a car but avoid using it as much as 42

island, we are very concerned about rising sea levels…We have changed to a smaller, fuel efficient car, but try to walk as much as we can. We have just had a new boiler fitted and improved our insulation, which really helps to make the house much warmer, as well as reducing Co2 emissions.”

MAGGIE AMBLER “I don’t think it’s just the government that needs to take

MARK HARDWICK “I work for an organic veg box company, so I get lots of good quality fruit & veg, which isn’t wrapped in plastic. I don’t think we use plastic wisely. Also, water it’s a precious commodity, I try not to waste it.”

IT’S TIME TO GO GREEN OR AT LEAST TRY TO… Tamara Gingham takes on climate change – one step at a time

ow, I’m no eco warrior, I’ve got the central heating turned up high and my cosy jumper was imported from the Philippines. And until recently, I thought Extinction Rebellion was a heavy metal band. But I know I ought to start to do more for our poor, beleaguered planet. Now I know what you’re thinking, what can ‘I’ as one individual do to help turn climate change around, it’s the government that needs to take control. For the most part you would be absolutely right, but I have started to explore this a little further. If we all come together and change a few habits, it’s not going to hurt, in fact it’s going to do a lot of good. If individuals have all contributed to climate change in the first place, we can all do our little bit to try and stop it getting worse. Even if it’s just changing your shampoo to a more natural version, to reduce the plastic particles and chemicals from contaminating our seas. We can take it one step at a time. There is a need for a little haste, and a little hurry, as the United Nations says there are only 11 years to prevent irreversible damage from climate change! Don’t panic. Well maybe panic a little…. To make small changes isn’t as hard as you might think, it’s just knowing what changes to make and how. You didn’t ask, but I have come up with a few ideas to get you started. I won’t suggest recycling, as I know you do that already, and I’m sure you try to reuse bags for your shopping. But do you have a reusable water bottle, or cup for hot

drinks on the go? It’s a hard habit to get into, but eventually you can go weeks and months without buying a single plastic water bottle, or a throw away coffee cup. Scrap the meal-deal, and prepare lunch at home with reusable Tupperware, buy loose fruit and vegetables, try to cut down on meat and animal products. Use your legs more, instead of jumping in the car, walk or cycle. Get rid of your car altogether, think of the money you’d save? According to the RAC most cars are parked up, unused, for 95% of the time. If that’s a step too far you could look at getting an electric car, a hybrid, or look into joining the Enterprise Car Club in Portsmouth, allowing you access to a car when you need it, even if it’s just for a quick trip to the shops. Talking of shopping, start buying biodegradable products, such as dog litter bags and bin bags, even products that are made from bamboo as an alternative to single-use plastics such as bamboo earbuds or a toothbrush. And as we are in the bathroom, did you know that while the north of England is flooding, the rivers in southern England are drying up because we are extracting too much water from them for all those long hot showers? Think before you buy, do I need it? Where is it sourced from? What is it made of? Trying to be completely sustainable and cutting waste isn’t easy. But, slowly incorporating better habits into your daily life will help positive changes become natural and second nature. 43

Like us on

10th December 2019

BRIAN HEALY – FROM PEASANTS TO CZARS: A PORTRAIT OF 19TH CENTURY RUSSIA Join us on a pictorial troika ride through some of the most eventful chapters of Russian history

Brian is a professional artist and interior designer in many towns and museums in France, Belgium, Holland and Spain.

14th January 2020

CHRIS ASLAN ALEXANDER – CARPET RIDE TO KHIVA - EXPLORING THE REVIVAL OF 15 TH CENTURY CARPET DESIGNS FROM PERSIAN ILLUMINATED MANUSCRIPTS The lecture will examine the traditional role of carpet weaving and embroidery in the social lives of Central Asian Women and how social and political influences led to the decline of textile production.

Chris has recently finished rowing and studying at Oxford and is now a curate at St Barnabas, North Finchley. He returns to Central Asia whenever he can and conducts tours there.

UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH ELDON BUILDING, MIDDLE STREET, PO1 2DJ WE GATHER FROM 6PM PRESENTATION 7-8PM VISITORS WARMLY WELCOMED £5

Like us on

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Welcome to our feature looking at property related matters from a different angle brought to you by long established Portsmouth and Southsea estate agent, Chinneck Shaw. We will be looking at everything from house names to decorating trends in the coming months. Words by Kate Thompson.

riving around Southsea you can’t fail to notice the delightful house names and ornate stained glass windows that adorn many a Victorian home. From grand villas to more humble terraces, the names can still be seen above the front door. But how did this all begin? Professor of Design History at the University of Portsmouth, Deborah Sugg Ryan, is an expert on the history of the home. Best known for her involvement with the popular BBC 2 series A House Through Time, Deborah is the series consultant, and she will be appearing on our screens again with a third series in the new year. The glamorous professor has a deep rooted fascination with all things related to the home.

“Houses associated with aristocracy and royalty have always had names and that’s where the fashion came from originally,” explained Deborah. “When they first started building houses in Southsea, they had names and not numbers. “I live in Southsea but the glass panel above my door is no longer there. I used the census records to find out that my house was called Minden House and was named after the Battle of Minden in 1759. “It dates back to the 1870s and it was owned by a Captain in the army.” Southsea has a long military association and that is why many homes bear the names of famous battles.

Deborah Sugg Ryan

Exotic place names were often chosen due to the influence of the British Empire as well as cities, animals, birds, trees, or plants. “When houses were built, just like new houses now, the new owner could choose fixtures and fittings, and that is why you find houses with slightly different front doors and a wider bay window. “The choice of what to call the house was also given to the first owner and that would appear on the original glass above the front door. “In Southsea you often find cases where the builder was also the landlord. The landlord speculator would build a house for themselves and the rest of the terrace or row were built for rent,” she said. Deborah revealed it is considered bad luck to change the name of a house - and some people may adopt a tongue in cheek approach to naming new homes. “In the 1930s there was a trend for calling your home ‘Dunroamin’, and I recently heard of a house in Cornwall called ‘Dunfacebooking.’ “Nowadays it can be seen as a little vulgar to name your home, and it still seems a little posh to have a name rather than a number. “But personally I rather like it,” she added.

Tell us about your house name … Do you love your house name? Did it seal the deal for buying your home? The team at Chinneck Shaw would love to hear from you - share your house name with them on Instagram @chinneck_shaw or Twitter @ChinneckShaw

WHAT’S ON ASPEX GALLERY

ART & EXHIBITIONS

WEDS - SUNDAY, 11-4 & BANK HOLS Every Friday GENERATE Art for People with Dementia 10.30am Every Wednesday MINI MAKERS 10.30-11.30am Every Saturday FAMILY SATURDAYS 11am-1pm PONTOON ARTIST IN RESIDENCE – BOREDOMRESEARCH Until 5 Dec EXHIBITION: GRADUATE SHOWCASE – KEEPING THE PIECE Until 22 Dec EXHIBITION: THE PLATFORM GRADUATE AWARD 2019 Thu 5 Dec RELAXED TOUR FOR PEOPLE WITH

PORTSMOUTH HISTORIC DOCKYARD EXHIBITION: THE ICONIC TRAFALGAR SAIL @ NM of RN EXHIBITION: BRITISH TATTOO ART REVEALED @ Boathouse No 5 Fri 29 Nov Sun 1 Dec DICKENS CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Mon 2 Dec SEA URCHIN’S CLUB 10.30am-12pm Royal

Navy Submarine Museum Fri 6 Dec GLITZ AND GLAMOUR 6.30pm Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower Fri 6, Sat 7 & Sat 14 Dec BAUBLES AND BUCCANEERS

7pm HMS Warrior 1860

DEMENTIA

Sat 7 & Fri 13 Dec CHRISTMAS COCKTAIL PARTY

Sat 7 Dec FESTIVE FAMILY FUN DAY

6.30pm Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower

The Vulcan Building, Gunwharf Quays

Wed 11 Dec ASK THE ARCHIVES 11am-2pm @RNSM

Tel: 023 9277 8080 www.aspex.org.uk

Fri 13 Dec & Mon 13 Jan BOOKMARK READING CLUB

10.30am-2pm @RNSM Sat 14 Dec 80s CHRISTMAS FEAT. GREAT SCOTT 6.30pm Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower Sat 14 Dec THE MARY ROSE ROYAL CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE @ Mary Rose Sat 25 Jan BURNS NIGHT 2020 7pm HMS Warrior 1860 All events are ticketed see www.historicdockyard.co.uk for details. Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth PO1 3LJ Tel: 023 9283 9766

PORTSMOUTH MUSEUMS All Year EXHIBITION: A STUDY IN SHERLOCK – UNCOVERING THE ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE COLLECTION Portsmouth Museum All Year EXHIBITION: YOU DON’T KNOW SHERLOCK HOLMES …YET Portsmouth Museum Tues-Sun EXHIBITION: PORTSMOUTH REVISITED A History of the City in Art 10am-5pm Portsmouth Museum portsmouthcitymuseums.co.uk

PORTSMOUTH GUILDHALL

MUSIC

Every Thursday RECHARGE: 55+ SINGING WORKSHOPS Every Saturday UVG JUNIORS – SINGING JUST FOR KIDS (ages 5-10) 10.45am-12pm Mon 2 Dec DEEPS 8.30pm Tue 3 Dec SOUTHSEA SKIFFLE ORCHESTRA 12-1pm Tue 3 Dec EMELI SANDE 7pm Fri 6 Dec BAND OF SKULLS 7pm The Pyramids Fri 6 Dec LAUGH OUT LOUD COMEDY CLUB 7.30pm Sat 7 Dec DJ SHOP 2019 UNTOUCHABLES DARTS 7pm Sun 8 Dec MILTON GLEE CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT WITH THE ROYAL MARINES ASSOCIATION CONCERT BAND 3pm Mon 9 Dec JOHN BARROWMAN 7.30pm Wed 11 Dec MELANIE MARTINEZ 7pm Thu 12 Dec BSO: FEARLESS YOUTH 7.30pm Fri 13 Dec BURY TOMORROW 7pm The Pyramids Sat 14 Dec JINGLE BELL JAZZ 2019 10.30am Sun 22 Dec BSO: LAST NIGHT OF THE PROMS 7.30pm

Call today for a free taster lesson

Sun 22 Dec UNDER THE FROZEN MOON 11.30am Tue 24 Dec BAAA HUMBUG 6.30pm Tue 31 Dec LAUGH OUT LOUD COMEDY CLUB 7.30pm Tue 31 Dec CIRQUE DU GUILDHALL 7pm Sat 4 Jan BEATS OF THE STREETS – THANK GOD FOR SINNERS NIGHT 7.30pm Thu 16 Jan BSO: UNREQUITED LOVE 7.30pm Fri 17 Jan JAMES ALDERSON’S ONE MAN SHOW – BRING BACK THE 80s 8.30pm Sat 18 Jan CLASSIC ROCK SHOW 7.30pm Tue 21 Jan SOUTHSEA SKIFFLE ORCHESTRA 12-1pm Fri 24 Jan BSO: SYMPHONIC SENSIBILITY 7.30pm Sat 25 Jan ADELE TRIBUTE The Journey so Far 7pm Sun 26 Jan THE LITTLE MIX EXPERIENCE 2pm Sun 26 Jan THE MUSIC OF PRINCE 7pm Mon 27 Jan PORTSMOUTH CHAMBER SERIES – ENSEMBLE 360 7.30pm Wed 29 Jan MAX AND IVAN – COMMITMENT 7.30pm Thu 30 Jan MONEY FOR NOTHING 7.30pm Sat 1-2 Feb GUILDHALL GAMES FEST 11am

Fri 7 Feb BSO: PASTORAL BEETHOVEN 7.30pm

Tue 31 Dec MAD FOR NEW YEARS EVE 8pm

Guildhall Square, Portsmouth PO1 2AB Box Ofﬁce 0844 847 2362 www.portsmouthguildhall.org.uk

Fri 10 Jan NINE TON PEANUT SMUGGLERS 7.30pm

WEDGEWOOD ROOMS

Fri 17 Jan TRANSMISSION 10.30pm

Sun 1 Dec MARK THOMAS: 50 THINGS ABOUT US 7.30pm Wed 4 Dec SKINNY LISTER 7.30pm Fri 6 Dec WEDGE COMEDY CLUB 7.30pm Sat 7 Dec DREADZONE 7.30pm Thu 12 Dec THE FAIM 7.30pm

Sat 11 Jan WHOLE LOTTA LED 7.30pm Sat 8 Feb THE GOGO CULT 7.30pm PLEASE NOTE THIS LIST IS NOT EXHAUSTIVE AS NEW EVENTS MAY HAVE BEEN ADDED SINCE THE MAGAZINE WENT TO PRINT. PLEASE VISIT www.wedgewood-rooms.co.uk FOR FURTHER INFO 147b Albert Rd, Southsea PO4 0JW Box Office: 023 9286 3911 Email: tickets@wedgewood-rooms.co.uk

Fri 13 Dec GUILT TRIPPIN’ 7.30pm Sat 14 Dec THE SOUTHSEA ALTERNATIVE CHOIR 7.30pm Wed 18 Dec BIG FAT XMAS QUIZ 7pm Fri 20 Dec WEDGE COMEDY CLUB 7.30pm Sat 21 Dec FLEETINGWOOD MAC 7.30pm Mon 23 Dec MARK MORRISS & FRIENDS 7.30pm Fri 27 Dec THE TENTH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS COVERS PARTY 7.30pm Sat 28 Dec THE ACID ATTACK & PUNK IN THE LOFT CHRISTMAS PARTY 8pm Sun 29 Dec KOJAKS REVENGE ANNUAL PARTY 7.30pm

Independent practice since 1996 24hr Emergency Service Surgical theatre on site 34 Elm Grove • Southsea • Hants • PO5 1JG Tel: 02392 861122 • www.grove-vets.co.uk

GROUNDLINGS THEATRE

THEATRE

Wed 4 Dec – 5 Jan JACK & THE BEANSTALK See box

office for times Fri 6 Dec CHRISTMAS AGOGO! WITH MISS HOPE SPRINGS 7.30pm Sun 22 Dec MEET SANTA 2019 1-2.30pm 42 Kent Street, Portsea PO1 3BS www.groundlings.co.uk

KINGS THEATRE Wed 11 Dec - Sun 5 Jan ALADDIN See box office

for times Wed 18 Dec THAT’LL BE THE DAY CHRISTMAS

Sun 2 Feb THE ADULT PANTO: PETER PANTIES 7.30pm Mon 3 - Sat 8 Feb THE WOMAN IN BLACK Times

various – see box office Albert Road, Southsea PO5 2QJ. Box Office: 023 9282 8282 http://kingsportsmouth.co.uk

NEW THEATRE ROYAL Fri 10 Dec KNEES UP! 7.30pm Fri 13 -Tue 31 Dec THE NUTCRACKER See box office for times Sat 8 Feb TOM STADE: YOU AIN’T SEEN NOTHING YET 7.30pm Wed 5 - Fri 7 Feb FAME The Petersfield School 7.30pm

PARTY 7.30pm

20-24 Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth PO1 2DD

Sun 22 Dec FILM: IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE 7pm

T: +44(0) 23 9264 9000

Mon 20 Jan FILM: LA LA LAND 10.30am

www.newtheatreroyal.com

Albemarle House 15 Osborne Road Southsea PO5 3LB

A HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR FROM ALBERT ROAD TRADERS

Like us on

OTHER EVENTS

Every Saturday & Sunday ODEON KIDS CLUB

Fri 20 Dec FUNBOOTH CHRISTMAS PARTY 7.30pm

£2.50pp & free parking at Port Solent

Goals, Tangier Road, Portsmouth PO3 6QA

Every Sunday 2K & 5K PARK RUN 9.15am meet

Sun 29 Dec EASTNEY GAS ENGINE HOUSE OPEN

Hilsea Lido www.greatrunlocal.org

DAY 11am-5pm

Every Saturday 5km PARK RUN 9am meet Speakers Corner www.parkrun.org.uk/southsea Every Sunday SUNSET SUNDAYS 8pm Emirates Spinnaker Tower, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth PO1 3TT Until 22 Dec WINCHESTER CATHEDRAL CHRISTMAS MARKET Sun-Wed: 10am-6.30pm, Thu-Sat: 10am-8pm www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

Thu 26 - Tue 31 Dec TREASURE ISLAND @ Pyramids Centre, Clarence Esplanade, Southsea PO5 3ST

Tue 31 Dec NEW YEARS EVE PARTY 8pm Emirates Spinnaker Tower

Sun 12 Jan INDOOR TABLE TOP SALE 10am-1pm Mountbatten Centre

Tue 14 Jan PORTSMOUTH HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION TALK: PICTURING INDIA - PEOPLE, PLACES AND THE

Until 24 Dec TOWER TOYMAKERS WORKSHOP 10am-

WORLD OF THE EAST INDIA COMPANY 7pm Park

5pm Emirates Spinnaker Tower

Building, University of Portsmouth

Until 5 Jan ICE SKATING 10am-9pm Guildhall Square,

Southsea Lifestyle makes every effort to ensure that the information in our listings is accurate at the time of publishing. It cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. We recommend that you call ahead to check times and dates.

Portsmouth PO1 2AD Until 5 Dec WINCHESTER CATHEDRAL ICE RINK Until 5 Dec EXHIBITION: ORLA KIELY A Life in Pattern Winchester Discovery Centre, Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8SB Sun 1 - Tue 31 Dec FESTIVE HIGH TEA 12-5pm Emirates Spinnaker Tower Sun 1 - Tue 24 Dec FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA 12-4pm Queens Hotel, Clarence Parade, Osborne Road, Southsea PO5 3LJ queenshotelportsmouth.com Mon 2 – 24 Dec FESTIVE LUNCH 12-2pm Queens Hotel Sat 7 & Sun 8 Dec RNLI SANTA FUN RUNS at Lakeside North Harbour Tue 10 Dec PORTSMOUTH HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION TALK: ORIGINS OF GUNPOWDER AND USES THROUGH HISTORY 7pm Park Building, University of Portsmouth Wed 11 Dec FORT NELSON TALKS: THE HISTORY OF SHOREHAM FORT 7.30pm Sat 14 Dec GHOST HUNT FORT WIDLEY 8.30pm Sun 15 Dec HOTWALLS OPEN STUDIOS 11am-4pm Wed 18 Dec STORYTIME 11am Fort Nelson Wed 18 Dec SEASONAL SONGS 5.30pm Queens Hotel

DAVENPORTS PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & HANDYMAN

My work is underwritten with a personal guarantee and I will rectify a fault, should it arise, that can reasonably be attributable to it at no extra cost.

31 BEATRICE ROAD SOUTHSEA PO4 0JY CALL CHRIS - 07957 888172 Things needing “fixing” because you are too busy and or haven’t the skills then don’t delay make a list and call me today! I have provided a local property maintenance and handyman service in Southsea for 10 years. Services include: Patios: laying, repairs & cleaning. Decking: construction & maintenance: Fencing: erecting & repair. Painting & Decorating: interior & exterior. Roof & gutter repairs. Tiling: floors & walls. Plumbing: taps • toilets • cisterns etc. Electrics: switches • lights-sockets • fans etc. Fitting: doors • locks • cupboards • shelves • skirting & general carpentry. I have worked in Engineering, The R N and spent 22 Years as a Secondary School Teacher. Free estimates and advice. A personal and caring service • Work to the highest standard • Insured • Work guaranteed • I promise to keep costs to a minimum and not do unnecessary work.

THE SOUTHSEA LIFESTYLE ANNIVERSARY In January, Southsea Lifestyle will be fifteen years old, Kate Thompson talks to Zirrinia Austin Dean about how it all started.

eginning with a few copies delivered to neighbours, Southsea Lifestyle now has the largest independent magazine readership in the city. “Our first title was The Southsea Directory, I never imagined we’d be still be publishing in fifteen years, but people have been so kind and supportive we’ve never had a good reason to stop,” said Zirrinia Austin Dean, who used to design books for the publisher Dorling Kindersley.

“It’s hard work as Kevin, (my husband) and I do most of the work ourselves. Although we do have some highly creative people who help us, Charlotte runs our social media, Sophie, the 'What’s On' and Danny looks after our website.

so many amazing people and stories that we want to expand upon the usual ‘lifestyle’ topics which can become a bit predictable.” How about the commercial side of things? “Kevin and I are artists and designers. We loathe cold calling and in the main we don’t! Virtually all of the advertising comes from people contacting us, and because so many businesses get a good response they stay with us, some have been advertising with us for the past 12 years. Of course we need to keep the revenue coming in and we always welcome businesses who want to promote their services to our wonderful readers, by supporting Southsea Lifestyle.”

“Then there’s all our wonderful writers, John Worsey, Emma Beatty (and of course you Kate), who do a lot of the writing and we keep finding new talented writers to publish. And then we have about 12 people delivering the magazines door to door in all weathers, it’s become quite a big operation"

“Giving a voice to people or ideas that might otherwise get overlooked. Currently we are very concerned about climate change and we intend to keep publishing on that subject, but also homelessness, the LGBT community, as well as trying to support new businesses and the arts.We are so lucky that Southsea is full of

Photo: Dan Bernard

So what’s the magic formula? “We don’t really have one, we just try to work with people who have similar values to us, which I guess, revolves around wanting to create a caring and humane community.

Here’s to the next 15 years … Congratulations Kevin and Zirrinia. 55

THE GOODS YARD

Two years after moving our showroom to a former banana warehouse in Goldsmith Avenue, we have added a reclamation yard next door. The yard displays reclaimed bricks, floorboards, radiators, fireplaces, Belfast sinks and whiskey barrels.* In the warehouse we have a comprehensive paint stripping and powder coating service and an impressive stock of reclaimed doors and door furniture. Plus a large range of antique and retro furniture / decorative items. * We also purchase any of these items at competitive prices

POMPEY RECLAMATION is adjacent to Johnstone's Decorating Centre carpark GOLDSMITH AVENUE, FRATTON, PORTSMOUTH P04 OBT TEL: 023 9281 8703 - 07503146108

Like us on

Southseaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s P r e m i e r

Kitchen, Bathroom & Bedroom Showroom

62 Years

Providing unrivalled service for over 55 years

Passionate about Design, Committed to Quality

112-116 Haslemere Road Southsea PO4 9AR 023 9273 4291 www.sbskitchens.co.uk

FOR ALL YOUR TREE SURGERY NEEDS 24 HOUR CALL OUT

WE REMOVE THE TREE AND THE STUMP IN ONE CLEAN OPERATION Crown reduction, lifting and thinning Stump grinding Deadwooding of tree canopies Hedge trimming and reduction Supply, planting and aftercare of new trees & hedges

Like us on

Removal and responsible recycling of green waste Tree Protection Order (TPO) research, application for planning consents with local authorities and conservation area trees completed free of charge We will beat any written quotation

01730 821277

alpinetreesurgeons@yahoo.co.uk

07836 339664

www.alpinetreesurgeons.co.uk

A CHRISTMAS GHOST ON PALMERSTON ROAD By John Worsey & Charles Dickens

‘U

nbelievable!’ Morris cried. ‘I’ve come all the way to Knight & Lee and it’s not here anymore! Where am I going to get Lillian’s presents now? Something gold, something chocolate and some luxury socks — it was all under one roof! And now it’s gone! Unbelievable!’ He stalked down Palmerston Road, muttering, ‘Better get back to the car before they give me a ticket, those penny-pinching bureaucrats… Unbelievable!’ He stopped opposite the church, turned his face to the darkening sky and exclaimed, ‘First neverending Brexit and now this - the country’s going to the dogs!’ Feeling overcome, he made for a nearby bench. It brought him no comfort. ‘Good grief, this bench is freezing! What’s it made of — ice? Some sort of ludicrous art statement, is it? Council funded, no doubt. What a waste of my taxes! Unbelievable!’ ‘Darkness is cheap,’ said a voice from the shadows. ‘And you like it.’ Morris sat bolt upright. The chill that ran down his spine had nothing to do with the winter air. ‘Who’s there?’ Morris’ voice sounded small and shrill. He was suddenly, uncomfortably aware that there was not another soul around so late on Christmas Eve. ‘Merry Christmas,’ said the voice. Out of the shadows stepped a man in a Victorian suit, with an extravagant bowtie, an equally extravagant goatee beard, and a balding head of wavy hair. ‘God bless us, every one.’ ‘Erm,’ said Morris. ‘Who are you?’

‘I am the Ghost of Charles Dickens.’ ‘Unbelievable,’ said Morris. ‘Now I’m alone with a nutter. I must be the unluckiest man in Portsmouth.’ ‘Oh, poor man,’ said the lunatic Dickens. ‘With your beautiful house, your loving and patient wife, your healthy rental income, your golf club membership.’ ‘What’s your point?’ Morris sniffed. ‘Wait — how do you know all that?’ ‘There is infection in disease and sorrow.’ ‘Don’t you start. Lillian’s always telling me to cheer up.’ ‘There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humour.’ ‘What about flu? I had terrible flu in January. Unbelievable, it was.’ ‘Happy, happy Christmas,’ Dickens beamed, ‘that can win us back to the delusions of our childhood days; that can recall to the old man the pleasures of his youth.’ ‘Happy?! Lillian’s going to kill me when I come home empty handed. Blasted Christmas, stupid presents, the stress’ll probably kill me before she does!’ ‘You carry your own low temperature always about with you,’ Dickens mused. ‘You ice your office in the dog-days, and don’t thaw it one degree at Christmas?’ Morris shuffled uncomfortably. ‘You seen the price of gas? Disgraceful. My bills are unbelievable.’ Spreading his arms wide, Dickens declaimed, ‘I have always thought of Christmas time as a good time; a kind, forgiving, charitable, pleasant time; the only time I know of when men and women seem by

one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely -’ ‘Wait a minute. Are you a council-funded art project?’ The ghost sighed. It knelt and clasped Morris’ hands together. Morris was too shocked to pull away. ‘Men’s courses will foreshadow certain ends, to which, if persevered in, they must lead,’ said Dickens. ‘But if the courses be departed from, the ends will change.’ And with that, the Ghost of Charles Dickens stood and strode into the shadows. ‘Unbelievable,’ Morris muttered. ‘Hang on, what’s this?’ He unclasped his hands and there in his palm, evidently slipped there by the stranger, was a gold necklace - just like the one he’d planned to buy for Lillian. ‘Hey!’ Morris called. ‘Wait!’ ‘I can do the Christmas, mate,’ came the voice of Dickens, from halfway down the street, sounding a little less posh, ‘But you’ll have to do the merry for yourself.’ ‘Unbelievable,’ Morris almost said - but, to his own surprise, he stopped himself. That night, when Morris arrived home, Lillian said, ‘You look like you’ve seen a ghost.’ He found himself laughing uncontrollably, and when he finally calmed enough to tell her his story, she laughed uncontrollably too. They sank to their knees in front of a roaring fire, clutching each other like young lovers, helpless with giggles. And Morris found a merriness he’d buried a long time ago; a time before offices and mortgages, bills and parking tickets. He felt something thaw inside him. And he vowed to never let it freeze over again. That was the merriest Christmas for many years, and the first of many to come. 59

Problems with your PC? u Deals with fault diagnosis and repair u Can upgrade your PC to increase speed & performance u Can protect your computer from viruses & other Internet threats u Offers tailored 1:1 PC training

Call: 023 9248 3372 Mobile: 07751 795 762 or email: thecomputerboffin@hotmail.com ...your local PC expert

SEMI RETIRED

PLUMBER

NO CALL OUT CHARGE For all your plumbing needs call

Terry on: 07850 831078

Aboveboard Floor Sanding Free Quotation Clean reliable service Public liability insurance

07976 551 614 01489 602 650 aboveboardfloorsanding.com aboveboardflooring@live.com 60

Like us on

AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE

he festive period and the arrival of a New Year can be a tricky time. As we revel in the act of giving and receiving, some may experience feelings of inadequacy and the thief of joy: comparison. A tonic to these challenges is found within the simple notion of gratitude:

‘The quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness’

However you decide to mark this special time of year, I hope you’re able to give thanks for what you do have and join me in giving more thought and kindness to those who don’t have as much. If you’d like to find out more about gratitude or The Grateful Hearts Club please visit www.thegratefulheartsclub.com or follow us @thegratefulheartsclub

Keeping a daily log of gratitude creates optimism, and the deeper appreciation you feel results in more longer-lasting positivity. Cue a warm fuzzy feeling of thankfulness every time gratitude is shared, or a moment is taken to reflect on what is present, rather than what is missing.

The Grateful Hearts Club uses gratitude as a self-care tool, and a way of spreading positivity to those who need it. A set of cards has been designed to capture reflections of gratitude, each with its own envelope so they can be shared with friends, family, or maybe even in a random act of kindness.

Photo: Will Hutchinson @willhutchfilms

After experiencing tragic loss and the grief that came with it, I was able to use gratitude as a way of getting back to the positive person I once was. I wanted to share what I had learnt about gratitude and so The Grateful Hearts Club was born.

Words by Charla Grant, pictured above.

DRIVING TUITION Lady Instructor Friendly & Patient

“Your key to freedom”

WEEKLY & WEEKEND LESSONS BLOCK BOOKINGS REFRESHER, MOTORWAY LESSONS CRB checked

INTENSIVE COURSES ALL AREAS COVERED

FLEXIBLE COURSES MENU 2019

51 Rowan Ct, Goldsmith Ave, Southsea PO4 8UT T: 02392 352657 | 07886 576433 E: hooperlandscapes@hotmail.co.uk www.hooperlandscapes.co.uk

JUANITA MOSELEY-WILLIAMS D.O.T., A.D.I, I.A.M., DIA OVER 20 YEARS OF SUCCESS

Mobile: 07769 170465

CAR SALES THE GARAGE WITH A GOOD REPUTATION

www.nigelsandscarsales.co.uk LOW MILEAGE, QUALITY CARS WITH COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE RECORDS. 3 MONTHS WARRANTY, READY TO DRIVE AWAY. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL ME ON: 07395 834298 OR EMAIL ME ANY TIME NIGELSANDS@ICLOUD.COM

PART EXCHANGE VERY WELCOME FINANCE AVAILABLE 5 C BRANDON RD SOUTHSEA PO5 2LY

Like us on

M JW CARPENTRY

Repair CafĂŠ Bring your broken small household and electrical appliances, bikes, clothes, jewellery, toys etc along and get expert help from our volunteer repairers to fix them. Everyone is welcome to this free event, although we do ask for donations to help keep us going. There is also a cafĂŠ with coffee, tea and cake to purchase while you wait

third Saturday of the month 10.30am - 1pm @ Buckland URC, 174 Kingston Road

Like us on

All aspects of carpentry undertaken. Built-in wardrobes and bespoke fitted furniture, doors, windows, stairs and kitchens fitted or repaired, flooring, sash window and general carpentry repair and more.

FREE ESTIMATES AND ADVICE Michael Wright

M: 07882 713349 T: 02392 324835 mjwcarp@hotmail.co.uk

CULTURE VULTURE

“T

Christmas Crackers, by Emma Beatty

is the season to be jolly: Christmas is looming and there’s lots on offer in Southsea – pantomimes, concerts, ice skating, Santa runs, festive high teas (literally high in the case of the Spinnaker Tower’s Clouds café). We’ve trawled through the listings to pick out the best. “God bless us, everyone!”

PANTOMIMES AND PLAYS Lantern Light Theatre takes over the Round Tower for its version of Dicken’s A Christmas Carol (12-15 Dec). Meanwhile, the New Theatre Royal has another of its annual “Christmas Musical Spectaculars”, written and directed by the theatre’s Director, Scott Ramsay. This year it’s The Nutcracker, the story of Clara and the strange magician Drosselmeyer. Over at the Kings Theatre, Aladdin boasts an ambitious “magical flying carpet” (11

Dec-5 Jan). Groundlings Theatre’s Jack and the Beanstalk sees another visit from its favourite – and very vocal - “vegetable fairy” (4 Dec-5 Jan). And finally, Curtain Call theatre group brings a “hearty” rendition of Treasure Island to the Pyramids (26-31 Dec).

FESTIVE FAIRS AND MARKETS The big German-style Portsmouth Christmas Market is back on Commercial Road, complete with its “giant walk-in Bauble” and everfamiliar smell of sizzling sausages (16 Nov-29 Dec). While Port Solent Festival of Christmas is a one-off event with some 90 stalls (7-8 Dec). A new local charity, Landport Inter Activ for people with mild to moderate learning difficulties and disabilities, asked us to specially mention that it has its Christmas Fair on the 8 Dec at its Charles

Clara and The Nutcracker Prince at the New Theatre Royal

Street headquarters, with raffle, tombola, craft area for the children, and offering festive gifts.

SEASONAL HIGH TEAS The newly splendified Queens Hotel in Southsea is rather a nice place to pass a cold winter’s afternoon. Seek out its festive high tea (thru Dec). For a loftier take, the Spinnaker Tower Clouds Café is also doing special Christmas high teas, all through this month.

candlelit Christmas Carol Services (21 and 22 Dec). St Mary’s Portsea, meanwhile, performs its very popular Carol Service for local schoolchildren on 9 Dec

FEELING FESTIVE AND SPORTY? Guildhall’s “new-look” ice rink now has a canopy for skating even when it rains, as indeed it did rather a lot last year… (until 5 Jan). Portsmouth RNLI Santa Fun Run includes the “Naughty Elves Mile and Doggy Dash” alongside all sorts of fitness and festive entertainments, Lakeside North Harbour (7-8 Dec).

CHRISTMAS CONCERTS Milton Glee Choir Christmas Concert with the Royal Marines Association Concert Band come to Portsmouth Guildhall for a Sunday afternoon (8 Dec). while Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra performs their Last Night of the Christmas Proms at the Guildhall (22 Dec). The Anglican Cathedral has two

Cathy at Saturn by Mike Bartlett

ART GALLERIES And finally, just in time for Christmas presents for fellow Culture Vultures, have a look at Jack House Gallery’s new show ‘People Pictures’ – Kevin Dean, Sarah Jeffries & Michael Bartlett (6 Dec-12 Jan).

Sarah Jeffries Glossy Magazine no.22 (2019)

Kevin Dean – editor of this very magazine – is also a professional artist and acted as unofficial painter in residence at this year’s ‘Victorious’ festival. Kevin produced a series of works that capture the milling crowds on Southsea Common over the August Bank Holiday weekend. His works are showing alongside Sarah Jeffries’ reconstructed photographs from fashion and lifestyle magazines, and Michael Bartlett’s series of small reportage paintings of people at gallery private views. 65