Southsea Lifestyle June / July 2023

Southsea LIFESTYLE

CONTRIBUTORS

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

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

Elios Stone is a Southsea based holistic health practitioner, specialising in shadow work, nutrition and breathwork

Daniel Nowland has loved food his whole life, and spent ten years working as the Head of Technical for Jamie Oliver. He is now the owner of The Southsea Deli and organiser of supper clubs, workshops, and other food events in Southsea

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

CONTENTS

11 HOW MY DAUGHTER’S HEAD INJURY TRANSFORMED MY LIFE

16 A QUIETER MARKET

18 CHARLIE’S SENSE OF STYLE

22 CHARLOTTE CORNELIUS

31 VICTORIOUS FESTIVAL

34 SOUTHSEA FOOD FESTIVAL 2023

41 THE RENAISSANCE CHOIR MAKES SOME “BYRD SONG”

42 THE MAGIC OF SUPPER CLUBS

45 PRECIOUS STONE OF THE MONTH, MOONSTONE

42

Southsea LIFESTYLE

While some people have swimming pools or a jacuzzi in their back garden, I have a pond about the size of a small coffee table. It doesn't have stone nymphs spouting water or even any goldfish, but it’s a wonderful wildlife magnet. Water boatman skate across the pond surface and birds come to drink. All spring I’ve been hoping to see tadpoles, without luck, then, last week, I turned over a stone and discovered a beautiful, tiny toad. It may not seem very much, but considering that a year ago my back garden was a sterile patio, it seems like a miracle. Perhaps we have to accept that all of life evolves slowly and not always in ways we expect. Charlie Smith visited Southsea by chance and eventually moved here, see Welcome Home (p.18). Neil Maxwell discusses the changing housing market (p.16), while Elios Stone describes how he found peace and happiness after a life of addictions (p.11). If you are interested in making small changes to your garden to make it wildlife friendly, you might start by joining Wilder Portsmouth, https://www.hiwwt.org.uk/wilder-portsmouth and become part of the ever growing Wilder community.

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 for our August/September edition. email: info@southsealifestyle.com www.southsealifestyle.com

The words that no new parent wants to hear. It’s been over a decade now, but I still remember it clearly. My heart sank. I became almost completely overwhelmed with sorrow.

I threw myself wholly into caring for my three premature daughters. I left self-care behind. I forgot how to look after myself. As a full time dad and primary carer, I lived my life in a high-stress state, trying to juggle three baby’s needs and navigating services that couldn't support us the way that we needed.

There was an incessant pace for years after their birth. My physical body couldn't take the strain. In the evenings, after the girls were in bed, I would self-soothe with food, wine, and opiate painkillers.

In early adulthood, I experienced patterns and cycles related to addiction and self-soothing. Distracting myself from feelings of stress & anxiety.

By my mid-twenties I was obese, drinking alcohol, and smoking 20 cigarettes every day, whilst eating a terrible diet of take-aways and processed food. I would often feel shame, regret, and self-loathing about what I was doing to myself, but I couldn’t break the patterns. It was on my 25th birthday when I had my first great epiphany about my destructive patterns. I was very drunk in a pub when I had a lightning bolt moment of clarity, I looked around and thought to myself “I’m going to die a horrible death”. It was then that I decided to focus on changing my life. By 30, I had become a personal trainer, I was fitter and healthier than I had ever been before. I had more mental resolve, met my ex-wife and began a degree in nutrition.

At our 20-week pregnancy scan we discovered we were having triplets! I was excited and elated. A few weeks after finishing my degree in Nutrition, my triplet daughters were born by emergency at QA hospital, 3 months early. The c-section was botched, my first-born daughter’s head was severely cut open. We weren’t told the truth until after 3 months in hospital. We received soul-destroying news over her incubator. I remember it to this day. “She will be quadriplegic and blind; you'll be lucky if you get a smile.”

My old patterns of addiction re-surfaced as I hadn’t done the deeper healing— I had barely scratched the surface.

I suffered from kidney stones; a prolapsed disc in my back; and developed psoriatic arthritis which incapacitated me each morning and left me in deep pain throughout the day. My relationships couldn't be maintained. My family and friend networks slowly fell apart over the years. Despite my knowledge, I was not prepared for the effects of stress and trauma.

Six years after their birth negligence was admitted and my disabled daughter was given a care team. I could begin to rebuild my life. I learned how there were elements of my childhood, activated by stress and trauma, affecting my present-day experience causing feelings of anxiety, resentment, and fear. I expanded my knowledge of physiology, psychology, and biochemistry, and began a holistic journey of introspection, meditation, breathwork— and somatic movement.

I transformed the elements of my childhood programming and trauma to feel peace of mind, calm and presence. I silenced the catastrophic mind. My changes were so profound that I decided to retrain formally to support others.

If you want to know how your life can change and apply for a Free Guide to Holistic Shadow Work, turn to page 32

CURTAINS AT DESIGN HOUSE SOUTHSEA

The brand new Danxia collection from Villa Nova by Romo fabrics. Including curtain, upholstery and soft furnishings all bespoke and available from Design House Southsea. Please visit our showroom and ask one of our designers to take you through the collection.

A BLOSSOMING SUMMER

It’s going to be a busy summer for Ewa Fraczak, owner of Blossom Boutique: ‘the wedding season has started, so I’m preparing flowers for couples who booked in advance last year, along with more recent orders’, explained Ewa. I’m also designing another floral arch for Victorious – last year I created an arch in the VIP area, but this time everyone will be able to see it, as it’s to be on the bridge as you enter Southsea Castle. I’ll begin work on the arch two days before Victorious opens (on 25th August), so I’ll use long lasting, exotic, colourful plants – which

will also match the atmosphere of the festival. We will still have a presence in the VIP area, as, for the fourth year, my team and I will be on hand to make floral crowns for festivalgoers. Blossom Boutique has come a long way in the 6 years since Ewa began the business. ‘I like to think that working with Victorious demonstrates how much we’ve become part of the community in Southsea. We have built a reputation for supplying good quality plants and flowers, which are creative – something a little different – and we are often recommended by other local businesses, such as The Queens Hotel.’ Ewa is pleased to have her shop in the southern end of Palmerston Road, ‘as they have a great collection of independent retailers in this part of the road, and we like to support each other as much as we can.’ Blossom Boutique is certainly one of the prettiest shops in the area, and tourists often stop to admire the windows and displays around the doorway. ‘I like to keep the shop looking at its best and thinking of new ways of displaying plants – it’s a lot of work, but I like to be busy,’ said Ewa

Blossom Boutique 99

Palmerston Road PO5 3PS

Tel: 02392 831333

blossomboutiquesouthsea@gmail.com

Eliza Opara, Ewa Fraczak and Heidi Shuttle - part of Blossom Boutiques team

A QUIETER MARKET

Neil Maxwell

The housing market is cyclical and compared to the feverish days of 2021 when everyone seemed to be on the move, we have now entered a much quieter period. With fewer buyers around, selling your home may take a little longer than expected, and for those lucky enough to have a sale agreed, transactional times appear to be stretched to the maximum.

In this digital age, it defies belief that the conveyancing process should take as long as it does, but online conveyancing centres, for example, seem to have a high turnover of staff and have an annoying habit of losing paperwork, which may be a contributing factor. We would always recommend using a good local solicitor.

If a property doesn’t sell, we work continuously with our clients to understand some of the reasons why a potential buyer has not been found. There are several factors which must be considered. For example, a smaller pool of buyers will of course mean a lower number of viewers but you only need one! Interestingly, most sales we are concluding still fall within 1% or 2% of the asking price, so it is not just a case of huge price reductions to achieve a sale, but perhaps reflects a more buoyant marketplace, with more choice for buyers.

While estate agents have a legal responsibility to achieve the best price for their clients, there is a balance between the asking price and a lack of interest. Therefore, we must consider many factors before recommending any price reduction to a client’s property to provide the best chance of finding the right buyer.

These days, the level of marketing plays a vital role and we monitor all potential leads from interested buyers. We also take time to review

property photos, refreshing them can be one of the small tweaks which could make all the difference. For instance, showing a property covered with a dusting of snow in the spring, will only remind those searching, about the length of time a property has been on the market.

Equally, would having some cosmetic work carried out enhance your chances of finding a buyer? Refreshing the exterior paintwork or even your hallway will leave a good and lasting impression for anyone viewing. In addition, two rooms which these days can make a huge difference are the kitchen and bathroom. However, you need to take care, as both could be costly to replace, and you need to be sure refitting them will guarantee a financial return. You could of course give them a paint makeover to refresh their appearance. A good estate agent will advise at the time of valuation.

While properties are taking a little longer to sell, homeowners are often subject to high levels of canvassing including letters promising buyers waiting, or notes through the door asking you to call. The latest lure, often handwritten on a compliment slip, is to ask how soon could you move, or how big is your garden, in a vain attempt to get your interest.

Changing estate agents isn’t always the answer if a buyer has not yet been found as a lot of work is carried out behind the scenes. There are simply occasions when your property might be an ice block on a glacier, rather than the last block of ice in a desert (I will leave it with you to decide which would be easier to sell?). In such circumstances, working with the agent to monitor activity levels and enquiries is the only way to give yourself confidence they are doing the right things on your behalf.

CAVENDISH ROAD, SOUTHSEA – £895,000

• Magnificent mid-Victorian villa in highly requested Owens Conservation Area.

• Beautifully presented ‘home magazine quality’ interior with 5 bedrooms & 5 bath/shower rooms.

• Imposing reception hall, 2 reception rooms, bar area, and impressive 30’9 x 12’7 kitchen/ breakfast/dining room. Landscaped front and rear gardens.

EPC Rating D

MALVERN ROAD, SOUTHSEA – £875,000

• Exceptional 5 double bedroom Victorian residence with no forward chain.

• Over 3,100 sq.ft (288.6 sq.m) with modern touches and characterful features.

• 35ft x 11ft modern fitted kitchen/breakfast room, off-road parking for 2 cars, detached garage, westerly facing rear garden with artificial lawn and paved patio.

EPC Rating C

EASTERN PARADE, SOUTHSEA – O.I.T.R - £1,950,000

• Magnificent Edwardian detached residence in desirable seafront location with uninterrupted panoramic views towards the Solent and Isle of Wight.

• Private grounds of approximately 150ft (45m) in depth with ample parking for several vehicles, detached garage, mature gardens with feature decked gazebo.

• Generous layout of almost 3,200 sq.ft (296.8 sq.m) over three floors with original features, 4 main reception rooms, 5 double bedrooms, and 4 bathrooms. EPC Rating D

CHARLIE’S SENSE OF STYLE

Words: Kate Thompson. Photos: Jennifer Channer, owner/photographer at Liberty Photography

When Southsea-based stylist and jewellery designer Charlie Smith offered to throw open the doors of her seaside pied-àterre for the Welcome Home treatment, we didn’t have to think twice..

Undoubtedly there’s something so satisfying in seeing how someone who makes their living advising others on how to have a gorgeous gaff, actually lives themselves.

Her top floor apartment in a delightful purpose-built development overlooking the Ladies Mile, is a symphony of calm and consideration.

Over a freshly brewed coffee, Charlie explained she started visiting Southsea many moons ago when her good friend Neil opened Lano Yoga Studio here. She regularly came down to practice and fell in love with Southsea.

“I really came to appreciate the vibe here. I have lived in New York and Miami, and elements of Southsea reminded me of the juxtaposition of buildings and architecture.

“I knew when my children were old enough I wanted to move to be by the sea, and coming to Southsea has been the best decision I’ve ever made,” said Charlie.

When it comes to her personal style, Charlie admitted she loved nothing more than changing the whole look and feel of her home. She has experimented with lots of interior themes from eclectic rock and roll, vibrant colours and overloads of vintage to classic English county.

“I’ve opted for a neutral palette and wanted to create a sense of calm, with a bit of a coastal feel. I’ve used mirrors to make the most of the light, and I love to use different textures,” she explained.

As she shows me around the flat, you can instantly see how Charlie has used her trained eye to make the most of the space. There’s plenty of artefacts and interesting stuff on show, but the effect isn’t overwhelming.

While she isn’t a feng shui advocate, she does believe in tapping into the energy of a space and uses crystals to unlock positive energy.

The colour palette flows from room to room and occasional pops of colour bring vibrancy. The eye is instantly drawn to the carefully curated books on a shelf in the hallway and the pleasingly arranged necklaces on individual hooks in her bedroom.

Charlie admitted she has always had an eye for detail, and when she enters a room she can instantly see how she would arrange it.

“It’s all very intuitive. It’s like I get a picture in my mind of how a room could look.,” she confided.

Settling in Southsea has enabled Charlie to work with local businesses like Southsea Gallery, Southsea Nets and Wrap Interiors. She also works closely with major brands such as sofa.com, and can access the best deals for her clients along with Victory Colours Eco Paint.

“I call myself a savvy stylist. Having worked with some of the major names I know how the system works and where to buy the products that the brands stock without the big price labels.

“Working with a stylist doesn’t have to cost a load. Having someone with a good eye to offer advice and taking the plunge by having a good declutter can work wonders and will reenergise your room,” said Charlie, who also works with commercial clients and specialises in window dressing.

CHARLIE’S STYLING TOP TIPS

● Freshen up the paintwork, You don’t even have to change the colour

● Add live plants and fresh flowers

● Invest time in a good declutter and cleanse

● Mirrors can reflect and transform the natural light

● Replace or re-frame artwork

● Lighting is key for creating the right

● Books are a great way to style a room and can be changed whenever you like

Bringing new life — mixing old with new!

Remodelling is an exciting adventure, together we will create a new design for a much loved inherited jewellery piece, or create designs around beautiful gemstones you may already own. Melting down your old broken or outdated jewellery in our onsite workshop, with the skills of our team of goldsmiths, we can transform it into an exquisite jewellery piece full of life and unique to you, whilst making a positive impact on the environment. This joyful bespoke experience will encapsulate your memories and continue your story through to future generations!

ensuring our gemstones and precious metals are sourced in alignment with safe working conditions and environmentally responsible principles. It has taken us two years to achieve our Butterfly Mark status, which is similar to a B Corp scheme for the Luxury industry, so you trust that our values run through our core.

We continue our commitment toward a more eco-friendly world and sustainable practises

87A Marmion Road, Southsea PO5 2AX

charlottecornelius.co.uk

‘We see our new showroom as a place of inspiration, where people can see our amazing array of tiles and go away feeling excited about their project’, explained Helen who started her business on Hayling Island in 2021. ‘We were the only tile showroom on Hayling Island and we quickly outgrew the premises, but I have always wanted to be in Southsea’. The new shop which was once part of FatFace UK is very spacious, with tiles and matching furniture displayed along its long walls. ‘Tiles are very tactile and there is so much to be gained from actually looking at, and feeling the quality of the product, rather than buying online, or visiting a sterile and often impersonal super store. I’m

Helen Pyper the owner of Tiled talks to Southsea Lifestyle about helping customers choose the perfect tiles and moving to her new premises in Marmion Road.

proud to be the retail partner of Ca’Pietra which means people travel far and wide to see the range — prices match Ca’Pietra’s online, however we can offer discounts on larger orders, free delivery and I’m always available at the end of the phone.

Altogether, we have a range of up to

1,500 tiles to choose from, but if people tell me their budget, the size of the space they want to tile, along with an idea of their favourite colours, or the feel they are trying to create, I can help them choose their perfect tiles’. And if you need tiles to be fitted, Helen’s husband, Jay Pyper has a successful building company, Design, Supply & Fitting, who are experts at laying tiles, as well as bathroom and kitchen installations. ‘We have also developed a commercial aspect to the business, supplying tiles to interior designers and construction companies. The quantities are obviously bigger for building projects, but I get as much satisfaction from helping people select the perfect tiles for a small bathroom or galley kitchen, as I do for a huge hotel lobby,’ said Helen with a smile.

Tiled

45 Marmion Road, Southsea PO5 2AT

www.tiled-uk.com

Email: hello@tiled-uk.com

Tel: 02392 293306

MEET OUR SOUTHSEA TEAM

Having a new base in Southsea is undoubtedly an exciting development for Chinneck Shaw and we wanted to take this opportunity to introduce the team.

Our new office in Castle Road is on the brink of opening as we go to press (check out our social media for details) and Harry, Jamie, Shelley, Lizzie and Neil wil be on hand to help with all your letting and sales enquiries.

HARRY RENTON-ROSE

Associate Director – Lettings, New Homes and Planning

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR JOB? The tangibility of the role. Coming from a corporate background, dealing with planning and development, the ability to take direct action to resolve an issue for a tenant or landlord, is refreshing and rewarding.

WHAT GIVES YOU THE MOST SATISFACTION WHEN IT COMES TO HELPING PEOPLE FIND A NEW HOME FOR RENT? The lettings team are very proud of the average length of tenancy across the portfolio, with some tenants staying for over 30 years. We collectively take a lot of satisfaction from finding people their next home and ensuring that tenants enjoy their time in the property.

IF YOU WERE A COLOUR, WHICH ONE WOULD YOU BE? Olive Green for sure – ask my wife…!

OUTSIDE OF WORK, HOW DO YOU LIKE TO CHILL? Raising a small family, this is a rare occurrence. When I get some time to myself I like to get my teeth into a DIY project, get the paddleboard out or go for a jog along the coast line.

WHERE DO YOU RECOMMEND IN SOUTHSEA FOR THE BEST COFFEE? Southsea Tennis Club – although we will have to wait and see what it is like after the refurb!

WHAT’S THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACE YOU’VE EVER SEEN AND WHY? As an amateur surfer, the first time I saw the crystalclear point break at Noosa, QL, Australia was up there. The wife and I seriously considered settling down there for a bit to be able to ride that wave every day!

NAME ONE ITEM ON YOUR BUCKET LIST Hot air balloon ride. Sunrise. I think it would be hard to top.

JAMIE MCCUTCHEON

MNAEA Sales Manager

Southsea & Old Portsmouth

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR JOB? Meeting new and existing clients and helping them achieve their property goals whether this be upsizing, downsizing or finding their dream home.

WHAT GIVES YOU THE MOST SATISFACTION WHEN IT COMES TO HELPING PEOPLE SELL THEIR HOMES/LET THEIR HOMES? The moment the offer is accepted. In most cases it is a mixture of excitement, relief and a happy time all round. IF YOU WERE A COLOUR, WHICH ONE WOULD YOU BE? Purple. Feels very regal and seems to match my expensive taste. OUTSIDE OF WORK, HOW DO YOU LIKE TO CHILL? Long dog walks across Portsdown Hill. Perfect way to unwind.

WHERE DO YOU RECOMMEND IN SOUTHSEA FOR THE BEST COFFEE? Coffee No 1

WHAT’S THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACE YOU’VE EVER SEEN AND WHY? Loch Lomond Golf Course, the surrounding area is just stunning. The loch, the trees, the hills and a pristine golf course. Perfect.

NAME ONE ITEM ON YOUR BUCKET LIST To Skydive. I think it would be a great experience and to see the world in a different perspective.

SHELLEY MORRIS-GREEN

Accounts Manager (Lettings)

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR JOB? Building long term relationships. Some tenants have lived in their homes for as long as I have worked here (almost 14 years!). It’s quite unusual in most service industries to have business relationships last so long WHAT GIVES YOU THE MOST SATISFACTION WHEN IT COMES TO HELPING PEOPLE SELL THEIR HOMES/LET THEIR HOMES? In

my role as Accounts Manager, it’s my job to process all the numbers on the lettings side of the business. I love being able to provide my clients with really clear, concise information to make their lives easier.

IF YOU WERE A COLOUR, WHICH ONE WOULD YOU BE? Yellow I think, calm but sunny!

OUTSIDE OF WORK, HOW DO YOU LIKE TO CHILL? A nice dog walk, I have a 10 year old pug called Doug! Or getting stuck into a good Netflix drama.

WHERE DO YOU RECOMMEND IN SOUTHSEA FOR THE BEST COFFEE? Southsea Beach Café do the BEST chai latte! I also love The Coffee Cabin with the kids in the summer.

WHAT’S THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACE YOU’VE EVER SEEN AND WHY? Tulum in Mexico, just the whitest sand and bluest sea I have ever seen! But it was a long time ago and I think it’s become a lot busier and more popular with tourists now.

NAME ONE ITEM ON YOUR BUCKET LIST Las Vegas! I went about 10 years ago and absolutely loved it but haven’t been back since having my children. They’re getting a bit older now so hopefully I’ll get the chance to go again soon!

LIZZIE BURT Associate Director

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR JOB? Sooo much, I think most people love looking around houses I get to do it as my job! Probably my favourite part though is handing the keys over on completion day and knowing a new chapter is beginning.

WHAT GIVES YOU THE MOST SATISFACTION WHEN IT COMES TO HELPING PEOPLE SELL THEIR HOMES/LET THEIR HOMES? Our marketing and property presentation. We work with great photographers and have excellent specialist equipment to make the properties we bring to the market really stand out.

IF YOU WERE A COLOUR, WHICH ONE WOULD YOU BE? Pink… I think it’s fun and friendly colour! OUTSIDE OF WORK, HOW DO YOU LIKE TO CHILL? I love spending time with my friends; family but also like meeting new people so really any type of socialising!

WHERE DO YOU RECOMMEND IN SOUTHSEA FOR THE BEST COFFEE? Ooohh… have to say The Canteen, best flat white in town!

WHAT’S THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACE YOU’VE EVER SEEN AND WHY? Rhossili Bay on the Gower. Not just beautiful but something very spiritual about it.

NAME ONE ITEM ON YOUR BUCKET LIST. Becoming a Grandma (no pressure kids!)

NEIL SHAW

Managing Director

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR JOB? Working with a fantastic team of individuals, each with different talents and all working towards a common goal

WHAT GIVES YOU THE MOST SATISFACTION WHEN IT COMES TO HELPING PEOPLE SELL THEIR HOMES/LET THEIR HOMES? I get most satisfaction from reading our client’s Google Reviews. These are personal insights from our customers, in their own words explaining how we have helped them buy/rent their property.

IF YOU WERE A COLOUR, WHICH ONE WOULD YOU BE? The Chinneck Shaw colours! Or either Red or Blue. I’m a Crystal Palace season ticket holder - sorry Pompey fans but I grew up in South London! Or obviously Pompey Blue. Blue Army, Blue Army!

OUTSIDE OF WORK, HOW DO YOU LIKE TO CHILL? I find a walk in the countryside is the best way to wind down after a hectic day in the office – even better if it includes a visit to a Country Pub.

WHERE DO YOU RECOMMEND IN SOUTHSEA FOR THE BEST COFFEE? Baffled Coffee. The coffee’s amazing and the food is delicious – huevos rancheros being my favourite!

WHAT’S THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACE YOU’VE EVER SEEN AND WHY? Eagle Point Camp Site, Bantry Bay, Southern Ireland. A beautiful place in it’s own right but it’s where Susan and I got engaged 32 years ago so maybe that has something to do with it!

NAME ONE ITEM ON YOUR BUCKET LIST A ticket for the World Cup Final – the one in the future that England win!

KAREN FORBES SCHOOL OF DANCE

Karen Forbes is very excited to announce a brandnew branch at Trinity Methodist Church, 229 Albert Road Southsea PO4 0LX, on the corner of Francis Avenue. The children are having a wonderful time learning all their ballet technique with inspiring music and magical themes, and having so much fun along with funky modern classes too. Why don’t you join us and bring your child for a trial class?

The school already runs some ballet classes at Milton Village Hall which are very popular. Feel free to book a trial class in Milton too. Karen Forbes runs a very

busy, well-known established dance school in Wimbledon of 35 years, where the pupils grow up in the school, and Karen trains every pupil personally, from pre-primary to advanced one ballet. Karen’s passion for dance is contagious, and her pupils tend to love it. Karen Forbes is a registered ISTD ballet and modern dance teacher and has been trained throughout her life with the RAD. Karen’s emphasis is to pass on her passion to her pupils.

Tel: 07506 946882

www.karenforbesschoolofdance.co.uk

Victorious returns this August Bank Holiday weekend (25th-27th August) with an even bigger line up and three full days! Huge headliners Jamiroquai, Kasabian, and Mumford & Sons top an impressive bill including British Mercury Prize winners Alt-J, Ben Howard, DJ legend Pete Tong who will deliver his Ibiza Classics with the Essential Orchestra, Sigrid, Ellie Goulding, Natalie Imbruglia & so much more!

Victorious is the ultimate family friendly, music fans festival, with over 13 stages you’ll never get bored! There is a huge kids’ arena where all activities and entertainment are free. The comedy offering is even bigger and better this year with acts including Omid Djalili, Jason Manford, and Dara O Briain. You can also sip bubbles in a castle with DJs, experience skate sessions at the skatepark, soak up some culture at the fringe fields, browse through quirky market stalls filled with local traders and more to find the perfect festival souvenir!

Victorious is very much a major festival with community at the centre of it. The team of passionate locals are proud to be a part of Portsmouth and give back to the area in-between planning the festival. Victorious has donated £462,117.77 to the community since 2014.

Victorious has supported 109 individual charities and good causes so far, with many of them being

local, including Tonic Music for Mental Health, Undercover Skate Park Project, Portsmouth Creates, and loads more! Over the years, they’ve helped local causes and events in whatever way they can, offering sponsorships, free event support, lending out equipment and more, in addition to financial support.

2023 contributions are already underway! Victorious have been supporting underfunded and often overlooked grassroots sports in the city with the sponsorship of England Women’s Beach Soccer, as well as donations to local teams, Pickwick Youth and Meon Milton.

Victorious also loves to support home grown talent having provided over 1500+ festival slots for local performers and counting. They have recently announced Crystal Tides as the winner of the inaugural Road To Victorious competition. The competition offered an exciting opportunity for bands from the PO postcode to have the ultimate band experience including doing a festival circuit tour this Summer, studio sessions and more.

If you’d like to find out more, please visit www.victoriousfestival.co.uk or check out their new monthly column in Portsmouth News. Weekend tickets from £175 (fees apply). Payment plan options available.

SOUTHSEA FOOD FESTIVAL 2023

Southsea Food Festival, Portsmouth's ultimate family foodie event returns packed with stalls offering goodies from some of the best food and drink producers in the area.

Food lovers can browse, sample, and buy a wide range of products including sausages, cake, chocolate, cheese, condiments and even Portsmouth aged rum. There will be plenty of options for veggies, vegans, and anyone avoiding gluten or dairy too.

This year the event is sponsored by Lexus Hedge End and covers a larger area, taking in Palmerston, Clarendon, and Osborne Roads as well as the full length of Avenue De Caen.

With an acoustic live stage featuring local musical talent, family entertainment, plus loads of great tips from chefs and industry experts, get ready for a great day out!

Find out more at rediscoverportsmouth.co.uk

NESBITS, THE PORTSMOUTH PROPERTY AUCTIONEERS

Do you own a property that is out of the ordinary, has a problem, or which holds potential? Are you wondering who to turn to? If so, Nesbits are the go-to firm for help with selling. Unrivalled local knowledge and experience equips us to give marketing and valuation advice upon bricks and mortar of all shaped and sizes, with the Sales Team enjoying a much-respected reputation for handling the unique and unusual, including:

DEVONSHIRE AVENUE, SOUTHSEA

No longer functioning as a Church, this detached single-storey building held immense potential for a variety of future uses. It was offered in our May 25th Auction with a Guide Price of £200,000-£250,000. Sale price available upon request.

MEON ROAD, MILTON

This modestly appearing lock-up garage/store sold prior to our May Auction for £120,000, the sale price reflecting the benefit of Planning Permission for its replacement by a threebedroom family house.

PRINSTED LANE, EMSWORTH

Virtually untouched since construction in the 1960s, this detached 3-bedroom house required comprehensive renovation. It was sold in January, prior to Public Auction, at above its Guide Price of £700,000

WHATEVER YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS, OUR PUBLIC AUCTIONS COULD BE THE SOLUTION YOU ARE LOOKING FOR

023 9286 4321

THE GOODS YARD

Reclamation Yard & Designer Showroom

Floorboards, Victorian pine doors, joists, fireplaces, antique furniture

POWDER COATING SERVICE - gates, railings, radiators etc. We buy

GOLDSMITH AVENUE, FRATTON, PORTSMOUTH P04 OBT

Open 8-4 Mon-Sat M: 07503 146108 www.the-strip-joint-and-the-goods-yard.business.site

THE RENAISSANCE CHOIR MAKES SOME “BYRD SONG”

7.30 pm, Saturday 8 July, Church of the Holy Spirit, Fawcett Road, PO4 0DY.

Time for something completely different?

Two hours of dream-time music to chill out to, to relax you and to take you to a calmer place in your mind.

The gentle music of Eric Whitacre sits alongside some of William Byrd’s greatest choral music. John Cage gets a look-in too, with a Zeninspired work of inner peace.

The eclectic programme features folk songs from the UK, showcasing some of this choir’s finest voices. Also included is Britten’s “Five Flower Songs”, considered too challenging by many choirs. These are beautiful evocations of spring and summer.

The programme of restful delights comes from the award-winning Renaissance Choir, regarded by many as the amateur choir’s version of The Sixteen. Everything it sings is for voices alone, and the concert features the gorgeous cathedral-like acoustic of Southsea’s Church of the Holy Spirit.

The choir will be returning to St Mary’s Portsea on 2 December for a Christmas concert on behalf of Rowans Hospice.

Tickets £15. Further info from https://renaissancechoir.org.uk or 01243 379724.

BESPOKE PARENTING SOLUTIONS

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THE MAGIC OF SUPPER CLUBS

Words: Daniel Nowland

Lots of people have heard of supper clubs, but most aren’t really sure what they are, or how to go about attending one. Let me explain, but first there’s a back story.

Back in 2016 I was working for Jamie Oliver in London as a food technologist. I loved the job but missed being hands on with food and cooking. Over a few drinks one night with a colleague, we had the idea to try running a supper club from my home in Southsea. It was mainly for fun, but there was the prospect of a profit.

Before we knew it, we’d picked a date, created an event on eventbrite and then had to plan a menu. We had just 10 guests for our first event, but it was a great hit and got the ball rolling for more. We soon planned more dates during 2017, and they started to sell quicker and quicker until we were selling out within 24 hours of creating the event!

In 2018 I opened The Southsea Deli and continued to run the supper clubs from the deli instead of the house. From then on they’ve continued to thrive, apart from the dreaded lockdown years.

For those new to the concept, a supper club is essentially a ‘ticketed dinner party’. They are sometimes held in people’s homes, sometimes in cafes, or in virtually any venue with the ability to host a dinner party. I describe them as a cross between a home dinner party and a meal in a restaurant. Everyone is expected to sit at communal tables, eat whatever the host has cooked, and generally enjoy a sociable evening with fellow

diners. There are no food choices, and no slick restaurant-style service. They are designed to be casual, sociable, and lots of fun.

There are lots of supper clubs hosted at The Southsea Deli, some of which I cook and host, and some are run by like-minded chefs or small business owners. The variety of hosts is what makes them special and we’ve had lots of guest chefs over the years, some of which have gone on to publish their own cook books, open their own cafes, and one was even a part time vegan chef and part time drag-queen/cabaret artist.

My good friend Rosie from The Hungry Herbivores runs occasional supper clubs from her mother-inlaw's Southsea home, but has recently hosted one at the deli. She created an incredible four course plant-based menu featuring locally foraged ingredients. I was there as a guest for the evening and the food was unreal. I am not vegan, but the vegan menu was so good I didn’t even think about cheese or meat! I’m hoping she’ll run lots more. The supper clubs I host myself tend to be Greek or Italian in theme, and feature a mix of antipasti, slow cooked meats and colourful salads. Often I don’t even create a menu until a few days before, as I like to be guided by what’s available and in season.

If you’re keen to attend a supper club in Southsea, keep an eye on our website, or join The Southsea Deli mailing list online. Other venues run supper clubs too, which are often advertised on eventbrite, so keep an eye there too.

THE CARPET CAVERN

The Carpet Cavern is a new carpet and flooring store run by JDS Carpets ltd.

With 20 years experience in the trade we can help you with all your flooring needs. We have 100s of top branded carpets, vinyls and LVTs to order as well as bargain price roll stock, remnants and rugs!

Supplied and professionally fitted or just supplied and locally delivered, we have something for everyone from budget ranges to the high end Rolls Royce of ranges! Come to see and feel the materials for yourself in store. Our products are not just good value, they are guaranteed and come with great aftercare too!

48 Cromwell Road, Southsea PO4 9PN Tel: 07730653809

“Traditional values, Modern materials”

PRECIOUS STONE OF THE MONTH, MOONSTONE

It was love at first sight when Barbara Tipple first saw a moonstone. She was just a teenager in her metal work class at school and like so many before her, she was captivated by the gem's iridescent beauty that comes from beneath the surface of the stone.

Barbara started her collection of moonstones over 40 years ago and has gone on to acquire some of the highest-quality gems that continue to mesmerize onlookers.

Moonstones are prized for their adularescence – an optical phenomenon that gives the impression of a blue lustre, coming from within the gem. This glow is often described as the reflection of moonlight on water and is the reason for the gemstone’s evocative name.

“They have a subtle beauty, which I find magical” Barbara

Moonstones have led many throughout history to see them as a talisman for fertility, love, protection, and sleep. It is also June’s third birthstone, and today, this gem is popular with people looking for birthday gifts. The most valuable gems are those which are transparent with an obvious blue adularescence. The world’s most valuable moonstones come from Burma and India, but these mines are running out of larger pieces of material. Consequently, moonstones are increasing in value. To get the best from the blue lustre of the moonstone, they are cut into a domed cabochon.

Visit Barbara in Marmion Road or their new Petworth gallery where it will be our pleasure to assist you in choosing the perfect moonstone for you and your loved one.

Handmade platinum side set diamond engagement ring.

Barbara Tipple would like to congratulate Andy Forse for winning the 0.50ct diamond competition to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Barbara winning her first Diamonds International Award.