Southsea Lifestyle February / March 2024 by Salad Publishing

February / March 2024

Southsea

LIFESTYLE

The only lifestyle / community magazine in Portsmouth & Southsea Celebrating 20 years of publication

Photo: Zirrinia Austin

INSIDE THIS EDITION… THE PERFECT VALENTINES DATE IN SOUTHSEA KIT FIELDING RECALLS HIS POST-WAR CHILDHOOD BOOKFEST 2024 & WOMAN IN ART PLUS OUR NEW WHAT’S ON SECTION

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Builders Since 1979

REAR EXTENSION WINCHESTER

2013

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CONTRIBUTORS Elly Hughes is a food and lifestyle writer exploring Southsea for the best places to eat, play and stay, whilst serving up some delicious articles along the way. instagram.com/elly.in.southsea 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 Charla Grant is an Eastney local and is passionate about connecting our community in creative ways Kit Fielding is a local author whose latest novel The Undead Gypsy (Hodder and Stoughton) is available from Amazon William Sutton is a writer, musician, playwright, raconteur, bon-vivant and, most importantly, author of the Campbell Lawless series of Victorian mystery novels

Southsea Lifestyle Produced by Salad Publishing Ltd Editor: Kevin John Dean Editorial assistant: Kai Austin Dean Creative Director: Zirrinia Austin Social media: Urban Salt Web design: Daniel Sweeney

CONTENTS 10 WHY DOES YOUR MIND GO INTO OVERDRIVE? 14 IS THE TIDE TURNING? 17 THE HIDEAWAY 18 BRAZILIAN DIAMONDS AND RARE GEMSTONES 22 CELEBRATING WOMEN IN ART 24 DATE IDEAS FOR COUPLES IN SOUTHSEA 30 PORTSMOUTH BOOKFEST 33 WHAT’S ON 36 MEMORIES OF A SOUTHSEA CHILDHOOD 1950-58

Southsea W

LIFESTYLE

ith the Christmas decorations safely stored away, and slightly longer, brighter days, it feels as though there’s a hint of spring in the air. A time for renewal and change perhaps? Maybe you are overthinking things — then read Elios Stone’s interesting article about improving our mental wellbeing (P.10). Or maybe you are contemplating moving home — see Neil Maxwell’s take on the housing market (P.14). At Southsea Lifestyle we have also rung the changes and bought back our popular What’s On section and introduced a new Business Directory. These features are at a fledging stage at present, as we begin to grow them further, but it’s all about giving more people in our lovely community the opportunity to promote their event, or their small business, at an affordable cost, see P.33. 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 April/May edition. email: info@southsealifestyle.com www.southsealifestyle.com

PERCY HARRISON OPTICIANS HAS MOVED!

or many years, there was a branch of Percy Harrison Opticians on Osborne Road. We have now left our premises on Elm Grove and come home to our beautiful practice at 74-76 Osborne Road. We are still offering all of the same services as before, and we now have a few additional facilities. We have invested in new equipment and our optometrists are extremely thorough, offering peace of mind that you’re in safe hands. We have curated a frame selection from independent brands from all over the world, including ultra lightweight Danish design by Lindberg, Parisienne chic from

Lafont, quirky Dutch vibrant styles by Dutz and sustainable frames by Bird Eyewear, made in England. Percy Harrison Opticians is a truly independent practice. Because of this we can tailor our offer to suit individual needs, ensuring a personal service that is as unique as you are. To book an appointment or browse our huge selection of frames, please pop in or call 02392 826831 and our small team of qualified professionals are ready to answer any questions you may have. Percy Harrison 74-76 Osborne Rd, Southsea PO5 3LU 023 9282 6831 https://percyharrisonopticians.co.uk 9

WHY DOES YOUR MIND GO INTO OVERDRIVE? Elios Stone

re you skilled in envisioning a future that is a complete disaster? It is important to note that this type of mental creativity has served a specific purpose in the past. However, I understand that it may not feel that way when you find yourself caught up contemplating hypothetical conversations and worst-case scenarios in your imagination. In childhood when you felt unsafe, and no amount of thinking could make things right the mind went into overdrive… and stayed there. The origins of catastrophic thoughts can often be traced back to the emotions stored within the body. The human mind possesses remarkable abilities to ensure our safety and well-being. However, this mental creativity can sometimes lead to a cognitive distortion known as Catastrophic Thinking.

probability of various outcomes. These imagined outcomes often manifest as dreadful or catastrophic scenarios. Despite their unlikelihood, they can become ingrained as a form of truth within one’s mind. The outcome is an ineffective strategy for dealing with stress in adulthood, whereby, after experiencing stress or anxiety, the mind engages in cognitive processes that lead to further physical stress responses. Elevated levels of cortisol, bodily tension, and a compromised nervous system contribute to a challenging and stressful life. When these patterns become ingrained, they persist long into adulthood and continually transform your ordinary day-to-day concerns into debilitating future anxieties. It requires an immense level of creativity to conjure up imaginary conversations with individuals that have yet to materialise, as well as to construct scenarios where you find yourself in unfavourable circumstances. Throughout a significant portion of my life, I dedicated my time to dwelling in my thoughts, replaying past conversations and experiencing regret and shame. I would then attempt to construct ideal futures where these occurrences never took place. Alternatively, I would envision worst-case scenarios to ensure I felt "prepared". However, these patterns have the potential to induce anxiety in the present moment. The physical manifestation of this anxiety can be felt as discomfort in the stomach, chest, and throat, ultimately transforming pain into suffering.

Catastrophic Thinking occurs when the mind attempts to find a solution for a perceived problem and gets caught in an endless loop of evaluating the 10

By utilising Holistic Shadow Work, I have successfully assisted individuals in releasing their worries and anxieties, redirecting their creative energy towards fresh connections and thriving endeavours. This approach allows for the unlocking of untapped potential that would otherwise be wasted on fretting and feeling overwhelmed.

When you break free from anxiety, you open up a world of possibilities. You gain extra time and energy to pursue the things that truly matter to you. You can cultivate new or existing passions and shape the life you've always dreamed of. By releasing unnecessary worries and avoiding catastrophic thinking about the future, you can fully embrace the present moment and unleash your incredible creativity. We all have this innate potential. If you have a catastrophic mind, then no amount of thinking things through is going to prevent catastrophic thoughts. The brainmind does not hold logical solutions for emotions. They need to be felt and allowed to move through the body. The most common error in approaching therapy for stress and anxiety is overlooking the fact that the brainmind is not the root cause of the issue and cannot provide a rational solution to emotional problems. The key lies in addressing the body, focusing on somatic experiences and emotions. By allowing ourselves to feel and heal, you can truly experience emotional well-being. Breathwork and meditation are the ultimate solution for finding lasting relief from a restless mind. By incorporating a profound breathwork routine that focuses on connecting with your breath, you can liberate pent-up trauma and

tension stored within your body. Once you shift your focus from your thoughts to your physical sensations, you will experience a profound sense of tranquillity that you never thought possible. “Feeling more connected with my body has already shown me how I can stay in the moment and not let my mind take over and to try to control situations.” Alex, 1:1 Client “In other therapies I have experienced a lot of talking and when you walk out in the street or get in your car, the emotions come flooding, you cry and no one's with you to help you integrate. With Elios I felt so held in session and afterward that I could relax, breathe, meditate and release.” Jane, 1:1 Client

If you desire a customised approach or if you have profound tensions or anxieties that require personal attention and support, simply use the URL provided below. By doing so, you will be able to obtain a complimentary guide on introspection, meditation, and breathwork delivered to your doorstep and begin your journey to peace of mind. https://eliosstone.com/free-guide-to-transformation/

e are an independent, award-winning five star rated clinic specialising in laser hair removal, located within a stunning Grade II listed building in the heart of Southsea, Portsmouth. At Southsea Laser Clinic, we are highly focused on delivering the best results and customer care. Laser hair removal is a highly effective and proven way to remove and reduce unwanted hair from the face and body. Southsea Laser Clinic uses the best medical grade diode laser for hair removal that is suitable to treat all skin types. Our laser is the most effective, safest and fastest way for permanent hair removal, and uses Advanced Cool Tip Technology making the treatment more comfortable for our clients. Our mission is to help clients feel more comfortable in their skin, as well as normalising hormonal imbalances and breaking the stigma surrounding body hair. We will always go above and beyond to ensure all clients are treated equally, with dignity and respect. Our therapists have learned how to identify early signs of skin cancer and advise clients on how to take action. We see our clients every 6-12 weeks and have the opportunity to observe changes that may occur on their skin, particularly in areas that clients may not be able to see themselves, putting us in a unique position to become powerful advocates in the fight against the UK’s most common cancer and potentially save lives.

Ready to start your laser journey? Visit our website to book a consultation & patch test. Looking for a career change? If you've been looking for the perfect place to train in laser hair removal, look no further! Our training will take place in our VTCT Approved Centre, for small groups of 4-6 students per course. Students must be 18+ to enrol. You don’t need any previous industry experience or qualifications to enrol onto our courses, and on completion you will be a qualified and insurable laser therapist! 14 The Friary, Friary Close, Marmion Road, Southsea PO5 2LS www.southsealaserclinic.co.uk admin@southsealaserclinic.co.uk training@southsealaseracademy.co.uk

5, Clarendon Road, Southsea

IS THE TIDE TURNING? Neil Maxwell

t’s in my nature to be optimistic, but I’ve always tried to write my articles to reflect the reality of the housing market at that moment. With so much bad press surrounding the housing market last year, with headlines screaming house price crash and relentless rising interest rates cooling the market, it may have been easy to believe the press and reach for your hard hat if you were thinking of selling.

in the next twelve months, which can often lead to a hiatus in the market, but if I were a betting man, my money would be on a December election, so with the housing market forming a cornerstone of our economy, it may well be that the next budget will contain some elements designed to boost the housing market and underpin the recovery in it that we are seeing.

But come October 2023 to quote John Major “the green shoots of recovery started to show”, and have continued to show improvements, culminating in a very productive January, with plenty of first-time buyers coming into the marketplace to find that it is now cheaper to buy than rent in many cases.

break the law, but cause real procedural headaches for so many.

But it is my belief that we desperately need The reality was somewhat different. Yes, the some proper reforms, from the endless overnumber of transactions regulation of the housing dropped and sellers had to “But it is my belief that we industry from more flexible face the reality that the lending policies, to an end desperately need some seeming endless increase in to some of the draconian proper reforms” house prices was over, and money-laundering checks it was time to be realistic that have been shown to about asking prices. do very little to deter those determined to

There are some great first-time buyer rates out there at the moment, and there was news this week that lenders and Government were considering some 99% mortgage lending for genuine first-time buyers, which will doubtless help thousands of people currently in the rented sector. There will be a general election at some point 14

An overhaul of the whole conveyancing process is desperately needed to marry the modern world with a system that is little changed since Queen Victoria’s reign. Furthermore, the time to licence to estate agents is surely upon us, to afford the public an extra level of reassurance they are dealing with professionals. Well there’s part of an election manifesto for someone! Needless to say we at Fry & Kent are here to help you with any property requirements, and we look forward to working with those of you with property plans this year.

ST. THOMAS ST, OLD PORTSMOUTH - £599,995 • Outstanding Grade II Listed Townhouse: Renovated to a high standard, featuring a luxury kitchen, bathroom, and cloakroom. • Prime Old Portsmouth Location: Short walk to historic Cathedral, Camber Dock, Hot Walls studios, and Gunwharf Quays marina complex. • Versatile Accommodation: Currently 2 bedrooms, master suite, study with potential for an additional bedroom; open plan living, courtyard garden, and iconic views. EPC Rating: Exempt

SOUTH PARADE, SOUTHSEA - £499,950 • Top-Floor Seafront Apartment: stunning views across the Solent and Isle of Wight from this bright and spacious residence in Fastnet House. • Prime Southsea Location: conveniently close to Palmerston Road shopping precinct, seafront cafes, bars, restaurants, and leisure facilities. • Key Features: 925 sq.ft apartment with dual-aspect living/ dining room, southerly facing balcony, integrated kitchen, two double bedrooms, gas central heating, double glazing, basement storage, allocated parking. EPC Rating C

MARMION ROAD, SOUTHSEA – £1,100,000 • Unique Detached Residence in Central Southsea: a special property set in its own secluded grounds within a stroll of the shopping precinct, Waitrose, private schooling, and the seafront. • Secluded Grounds with Gated Entrance: oriented in a southerly direction, surrounded by mature shrubs and trees, accessed through a video security gated entrance with a 180ft driveway & detached garage. • Three double bedrooms, two en-suites, and secure gated parking. Electric underfloor heating and double glazing throughout. EPC Rating D

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THE HIDEAWAY: A DOG-FRIENDLY CAFE BREWING UP TAIL-WAGGING FUN Elly Hughes

f you’re looking for a fabulous independent cafe, only a short walk from the seafront, that not only welcomes dogs, but absolutely adores them, then you’ll love The Hideaway on Highland Road, Southsea.

and small plates, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options too, The Hideaway lends itself as a fantastic eatery for any occasion, even offering the venue out for private hire.

This fantastic establishment first opened back in the autumn, and has quickly positioned itself as a much-loved asset amongst the local community; particularly with those looking for somewhere to sit back and relax after a stroll with their four-legged friends.

Long gone are the days where your furry friend has to hide under the table and hope that you accidentally drop a bit of sausage! Instead, you can peruse an entire menu with dishes made exclusively for pups, including an option to ‘build your own puppuccino’

With an array of fantastic events planned throughout the year, including regular quiz nights and various workshops, The Hideaway offers more than just somewhere unique to eat and drink; it’s somewhere to experience new things and meet like-minded people (whether you have a pooch or not!) With a brand-new menu bursting with delicious seasonal dishes, from home-cooked breakfasts and all-day brunches, to charcuterie boards

This isn’t just a dog-friendly cafe, it’s a wonderful family-friendly one. I have visited several times with my two-year-old daughter, and we have always received the warmest of welcomes. There’s also a lovely children’s food and drink menu that offers a very delicious deluxe hot chocolate, a proper treat for a cold day! Alongside their fantastic dining options, there is also a photography studio located on-site, specialising in dog photography, so you can get some memorable snaps of your best friend. Find out more about The Hideaway, or plan your visit, by visiting their website: https://www.thehideawaysouthsea.co.uk/ 17

BRAZILIAN DIAMONDS AND RARE GEMSTONES

Barbara Tipple

hen we think of diamond sourcing, Africa is more than likely to be one of the main regions that comes to mind. Although it has the richest volume of diamond material, there is another area that exceeds exceptional rarity when it comes to diamonds. Brazil has become the world’s longest commercial source of diamonds. Their significance as diamond producers spans over three centuries, with diamonds first being discovered in the 1700s by handwrought miners searching for gold in and along the banks of the Jequitinhonha River. This put the state of Minas Gerais on the map for being the world’s biggest supplier of diamonds for the next 150 years. With the primary source of diamonds in Brazil being Alluvial, the artisanal miners pan and dredge along

the banks of the rivers, using small tools to extract the loose crystals from the sediment. One of the most outstanding diamonds ever discovered was mined using this process in Brazil. Mined by a Brazilian man named Ze Tatu. An internally flawless fancy red diamond which weighed 13.90 carats in the rough. This was especially rare, as red diamonds in this area are usually less than 1ct in weight, and are not discovered often. Diamonds and gemstones with such rarity and beauty make them highly sought after. Barbara Tipple is well connected with ethical precious gemstone miners and cutters all around the world, and has a collection of exceptionally beautiful gemstones which Barbara, and her team will happily show you to be incorporated into a piece of Barbara’s handmade bespoke pieces of jewellery.

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A HIDDEN GEM IN THE HEART OF SOUTHSEA VALE COTTAGE, THE VALE

Having previously sold Vale Cottage in 1982, Nesbits are thrilled to reintroduce this property to the market, it now presenting an exceptional opportunity for new owners to craft a unique family home. Situated conveniently in a secluded Town Centre backwater, this captivating 4-bedroom residence boasts walled gardens, a private garage, a roof terrace, spacious living areas, and an abundance of period features. Screened by an impressive high boundary wall, the property features an Italianstyle courtyard and a generous main garden measuring approximately 45ft x 40ft. Originally constructed in 1851 by the renowned architect Thomas Ellis Owen, who played a significant role in the development of early-Victorian Southsea, the house underwent radical extension and remodeling in 1895. Nestled between Clarendon Road and Villiers Road within a historic Conservation Area known as The Vale, this tranquil enclave offers just a handful of select homes. Both Southsea Seafront and the Shopping Centre (Palmerston Road Precinct) are within a few minutes' walk, the location providing easy access to a variety of public amenities. Ideal for buyers seeking a refurbishment project, the property holds immense potential to become a splendid and enchanting family abode - a true hidden gem indeed! Vale Cottage is to be offered for sale by Public Auction in March (date to be confirmed), with a guide price of £750,000 - £800,000. For further information and viewing, please contact SOLE AGENTS and AUCTIONEERS: Tel: 02392 864321 e.info@nesbits.co.uk 20

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CELEBRATING WOMEN IN ART Charla Grant

That seed has grown into a collaborative project called ‘Women In Art’ (WIA) and the time to share it is now… Join the WIA Team this March to welcome a new event that celebrates the work and amplifies the voices of womenidentifying artists. ‘Women In Art’ takes place 710th March in the Learning Space at Aspex Portsmouth, it seeks to shine a light on women artists and delve into the stories and experiences that have shaped them. This free event combines community workshops, a physical and virtual exhibition, live art, an evening of TED-style talks and a panel discussion set to explore the themes that women in art can face such as self-promotion, 22

inequality, imposter syndrome and how to work in the creative industries. The events are hosted close to International Women’s Day (IWD) because this global event highlights the achievements and contributions of women in various fields, including the arts. When it comes to women making art, IWD provides an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the significant impact women have had on the art world throughout history. Something particularly important to the project because one of its goals is to inspire and empower future generations of women artists in our city. Designed by @formandfunctionuk

here is a certain alchemy that happens when the right people, subject and timing collide. Where the seed of an idea is nurtured until something brilliant grows. This happened recently when artist and illustrator Hannah Horn slid in the DMs of The Grateful Arts Club CIC asking to create an exhibition that showcased women in art. After reflecting on their own personal experiences it felt like an exhibition wasn’t going to be enough and it was decided that not only did they need to share art but wanted the voices of artists and creatives working across the industry to be heard.

This project is still evolving and there's an exciting opportunity to collaborate with Art Space Portsmouth and Hotwalls Studios, who are both hosting their own exhibitions across March as part of the Women In Art programme. For the latest updates, events and exhibition opening times please follow @thegratefulartsclub and @hannah_horn_

‘I believe it's vital for women in artistic industries to support one another as we all share the unique struggles that often go unseen.’ Hannah Horn Women In Art Co-Creator

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DATE IDEAS FOR COUPLES IN SOUTHSEA Elly Hughes

alentine’s Day might be just around the corner, but surely we shouldn’t reserve romance for just one day of the year?! Least of all when we live somewhere so stunningly beautiful with so much to offer.

Theatre over the next couple of months, from musical delights and side-splitting comedy, to traditional tale-telling and family favourites. Grab yourself a drink from the bar, and soak up the atmosphere of live theatre with someone special.

LEARN A NEW SKILL TOGETHER Whether you’re adorning an apron and testing out your cooking expertise at South Coast Cookery, or channelling your inner Patrick Swayze with some ceramic painting at Arty Potz, there’s lots of exciting workshops available throughout Southsea if you want to challenge your partner to try something new.

If you’re looking for fun things to do as a couple in Southsea this February and March, you’ll fall head over heels in love with these ideas:

WINE AND DINE BY THE SEA You simply can’t beat a glass of your favourite tipple and a delicious meal with a loved one, particularly when you also get to enjoy stunning coastal views. If you’re looking for somewhere unique, right by the sea, The Briny, Southsea Beach Cafe, and The Beach Club are just a few destinations offering gorgeous views and exquisite food.

DATE NIGHT AT THE KINGS THEATRE There are some fabulous shows at The Kings 24

PLAY BOARD GAMES AT DICE If you’re lovers of board games, or just fancy doing something a bit different, Dice is a fantastic option. There’s food, drink, and tons of games to choose from, so you can spend some real quality time together, showing off your competitive side, and getting a little break from those phone screens.

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TILED BY THE SEASIDE

Helen Pyper talks about ideas for refurbishing your home

s 2024 the year that you refresh your bathroom, or update your kitchen? If so, Helen at Tiled in Marmion Road, might be the perfect person to speak to. ‘I always think the beginning of the year is a great time to assess our living space and how we feel about it, and very often, a fresh coat of paint and some new tiles can transform a room. And living by the sea, there’s a multitude of nautical colours and themes to choose from,’ said Helen.

‘I’m proud to say Tiled is one of the few independent tile showrooms in the region - with a wide range of products to choose from and at competitive prices too. I absolutely love helping people find just the right tiles to suit their budget whilst at the same time giving their home a fresh feel, that will look great for many years to come.

STYLE 1: Introduce the beautiful colours of the sea into your home with the Opal range in Marine. This tile displays light and dark shades of blue throughout it that seem to change tones depending on the daylight in the room. We have them laid in a herringbone pattern in our showroom which adds more detail to a feature wall.

STYLE 2: Add some fun and creativity to your room

Here are some of Helen’s favourite tiles - all with a hint of the sea:

with these nostalgically names 'Deck Chair' range. Stripes are very on point for 2024. This is a customer's recently completed project using the Deck Chair in Royal Blue to add a nautical theme to their cloakroom. The range offers many different colour options. All can be seen in the showroom. The rainbow coloured one is a must see!

STYLE 3: These scallop shaped mosaics are hugely popular right now. We have them in a large range of colours from Emerald to Kiwi to Grey. Check out the Gelato range which comes in 3 delightful ice cream colours, Cotton Candy, Mint and Milk White.

STYLE 4: Wood effect tiles have come along way in recent years. These porcelain tiles have a texture to replicate real wood and they won't need the maintenance that real wood floors require. The Ca'Pietra Beach Hut tile is beautifully warm and realistic whilst the Vintage Blue tiles create a look of weathered, distressed wood just like a beach hut!wood just like a beach hut! View any of these tiles by visiting the showroom on Marmion Road. For more design ideas and tile inspiration, follow us on Facebook and Instagramk. @tileduk

Tiled 45 Marmion Road, Southsea PO5 2AT www.tiled-uk.com Email: hello@tiled-uk.com Tel: 02392 293306

DESIGN HOUSE

20% OFF ALL SOFAS

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Offer extended to the end of February 55-57 Marmion Road Southsea PO5 2AT Tel/Fax 02392 838038

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BETTER BOOK FAST – IT’S PORTSMOUTH BOOKFEST We asked local author William Sutton about Bookfest 2024

WHAT IS PORTSMOUTH BOOKFEST? WS: Bookfest is a Portsmouth-wide event celebrating books, writers, and readers in February and March. Its been going since Dickens’ bicentennial in 2012. There are great events for readers: watch for Portsmouth Authors Collective books in Southsea Library window. The brilliant Sheila Hancock, talking about her book Old Rage, will sell out – I’ve just booked. I’ll also be visiting the Gruffalo at Southsea Library in children’s week (half-term). WHAT ARE YOU DOING? WS: My first workshop is Writing Your Historical Novel (online/Central Library). I love the games historical authors play, evoking the past’s dialogue and atmosphere, while shocking us with how different people were – and how little human nature changes. Some readers find my three Victorian mysteries (Titan books) political, some comical; some just love exploring the innards of 1860s London. We'll use games to get words on the page: recreating the past, evading anachronism. Period language or modern? Hook readers with great events, or through characters’ inner lives? Next is Edit Your Writing (online). My Editing Club posse – 25 writers – has worked on sentences, paragraphing, dialogue, and punctuation, turning our messy first drafts into something publishable. Finally, a two-day Writing Retreat, post-Bookfest, helps you get your inspirations on the page. Setting aside two days for writing, you can make amazing progress with that manuscript or that idea you’ve had for so long. An incredible synergy emerges while working quietly alongside other writers – you don’t feel so crazy.

IS THAT WHY YOU PARTICIPATE IN BOOKFEST? WS: I’ve made lifelong writing friends through these 30

shows and workshops – forging creative partnerships, finding beta-readers and critique groups. For writers, Bookfest’s a focal point: developing our craft, performing our work and connecting the local writing community. Plus five participants from my recent workshops are now published – that’s a great feeling.

RECOMMENDATIONS? The T’Articulation shows are a great way into the world of Portsmouth writers. Holmes Fest is a mustsee – great writers and performers. And Maggie Sawkins’ poetry events: Pipsqueakery (writing workshop) and From the Heart (poetry recital). An unsung gem of a festival – don’t miss it.

william-sutton.co.uk/events/ wegottickets.com/WilliamSutton PORTSMOUTH BOOKFEST 5 Feb – 3 March (adults); 11 – 17 Feb (children): librariesandarchives.portsmouth.gov.uk/publiclibrar y-ser vice/whats-on/events/portsmouthbookfest/

BOOKFEST SHINING STAR, CHRISTINE LAWRENCE’S WORKSHOPS ARE BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND SPEAK UP: discover your X-Factor. Three creative writing workshops aimed at helping short story writers read their work publicly. Two workshops in Central Library; final one at Hunter Gatherer, Albert Road, with friends and family invited. 22nd & 29th

February, 1st March.

CL: Jackie Green and I love this workshop series. It’s great to see people develop their presentation skills so quickly. Last year the Hunter Gatherer finale saw everyone enjoying standing up in front of a select audience – they shone. Attendees said:

“I really enjoyed these sessions last year.” “Christine and Jackie are so supportive and enthusiastic.”

CREATIVE CONUNDRUMS AT THE CATHEDRAL: Creative Writing Workshop exploring the ups and downs of writing mystery and thriller stories in unusual locations. 2 March,

1pm - 4pm.

CL: Jackie and myself always are amazed

THE GOODS YARD

Reclamation Yard & Designer Showroom Floorboards, Victorian pine doors, joists, fireplaces, antique furniture

at the quality of writing that can be achieved in unusual locations such as Portsmouth

Cathedral.

Last

year

Wymering Manor, we crammed in over 20 participants. It’s great to expand your horizons and amazing what can be developed. Beginning with a Cathedral tour, this three-hour creative writing workshop uses prompts gathered during the tour, with exercises and feedback. Tickets via: Eventbrite.

Christine’s wonderful historical novel Emily is available in local bookshops. eventbrite.com/o/christine-lawrencejackie-green-74746547713

POWDER COATING SERVICE gates, railings, radiators etc We buy & sell antique furniture New fireplace showroom

GOLDSMITH AVENUE, FRATTON, PORTSMOUTH P04 OBT Open 8-4 Mon-Sat M: 07503 146108

www.the-strip-joint-and-the-goods-yard.business.site

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WHAT’S ON & BUSINESS DIRECTORY LITTLE PICKLES MARKET Saturday 9 March 1-2.30pm Our event is a Preloved baby and children's market, providing parents with an opportunity to save money on essential items for their little ones. e: clare@littlepicklesmarkets.co.uk: Charter Community Sports Centre, Greetham Street, Southsea PO5 4FL

Boiler installations, repairs and servicing Unvented hot water systems Natural gas and Lpg 10 year warranties on all boiler installations 20 years experience in the trade

07731 322332

WRITE YOUR HISTORICAL NOVEL Throw yourself into the challenges of historical fiction: language, world-building, character, and plot. £16 (£8 concs) Weds 21 February 6-8 pm (online): wegottickets.com/event/599027 OR Fri 23 February 10am12noon. CENTRAL LIBRARY: wegottickets.com/event/599030

EDIT YOUR WRITING: Sharing tips, pitfalls and secrets of the dark arts of editing – making this crucial part of the writing process fun and satisfying.£8 (£4 concessions) wegottickets.com/event/599023 Weds 28 February 7-8.30 pm WRITING RETREAT

THE LENS STUDIO, Portsmouth Guildhall – a GREAT entertainment venue! Emerging comedians, an eclectic mix of music of all genres, dance, compelling drama and family theatre – all in an intimate and relaxed setting in the heart of the city! Find out What’s On: www.portsmouthguildhall.org.uk

Attend this online writing bootcamp to set goals, gather encouragement, and enjoy the camaraderie that such a solitary calling often lacks £10.(£5 conc) per day wegottickets.com/f/13293 8/9 March 10 am-4.30 pm

DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT OR VENUE YOU’D LIKE TO PROMOTE? We charge just £25 per insert, email: info@southsealifestyle.com with your details

OMEGA ART SCHOOL (FOR ADULTS) 20 - 31 March 11am-5.30 pm will be showing its student’s amazing work at The Jack House Gallery, 121 High Street Old Portsmouth PO1 2HW Also a good opportunity to chat with a tutor about joining a course, email omegaartschool@gmail.com or call: 07981 867826 to book a spot www.omegaartschool.com

NO.6 CINEMA shows world cinema’s latest releases, plus an eclectic blend of classic movies, heritage titles and documentaries. Check out the latest programme for Feb/March www.no6cinema.co.uk Standard Adult ticket £9, conc. £7.50 and 25s & under £5 Matinee Adult ticket £8, conc. £6.50 and 25s & under £5 Boathouse 6 Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Portsmouth PO1 3LJ info@no6cinema.co.uk T: 07435 029408 33

MARKET DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

LOVE SOUTHSEA MARKET Saturday 2 & Sunday 3 March Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 March Saturday 6 & Sunday 7 April Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 April 10am-4pm Palmerston Road precinct www.lovesouthseamarkets.co.uk

HAMPSHIRE FARMERS MARKET Sunday 18 February Sunday 17 March Sunday 21 April 10am-2pm Palmerston Road precinct www.hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk

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• Timber furniture repairs, restoration and refinishing • Structural repairs

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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

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MEMORIES OF A SOUTHSEA CHILDHOOD 1950-58 By Kit Fielding, whose latest novel The Undead Gypsy (Hodder and Stoughton) is available from Amazon

of children with a fluctuating age range he Southsea that I was introduced to as a very young child in the from six to ten years, but a better word early 1950s is a world away from is free. The back streets are our home the traffic-flooded roads and streets that I territory – Victoria Grove, Campbell return to today. Somewhere behind the facade of Road, Napier Road. And we also range the this present time, a boy plays marbles in the coast, walk the Esplanade to Eastney, or race gutter, walks barefoot on the hot pavement of over the Common to South Parade pier and Chelsea Road, splashes into the cold salted sea its amusements, and stretch even further by South Parade pier, and joins in play with to Clarence pier. But it’s not always summer, the Irish, West Indian, and Scottish children, and I can remember hobbling home from amongst countless others. school through the slush A derelict bombsite at the of melting snow — feet end of our road offers wet, cold, and chilblained the experience of an air — shuffling to a warming raid. We take turns to at a crowded coal crouch under a sheet of fireplace. Here my corrugated tin while a mother would toast bread barrage of rubble and on a fork, or we’d share bricks mimic the reality a basin of hot milk and of bombers overhead. bread sprinkled with (A decade earlier, my sugar. From our back father, a young soldier, garden we could hear had struggled through 1950s Southsea Common - with Kit’s sister on the pony quite clearly the crowd’s the smoke, fire, and roar from Fratton Park devastation to reach his mother, luckily untouched when Pompey FC scored a goal. and unharmed, at number 42.) Memories are postcards from those ‘50s years: School for me and two of my siblings is Bonfire Night: fireworks on the street, making a St. Swithuns Juniors; a stern Miss Geary as packet of crisps and a glass of lemonade last headmistress and a watchful priest from the forever in the yard of the Phoenix pub, standing adjoining church take care of our educational outside the Essoldo cinema on Albert Road and spiritual needs. But that’s only in school and, because an A was showing (under time, because outside of those hours we roam sixteens had to be accompanied), asking a up to Canoe Lake, the swimming pool, Old total stranger to buy the entry ticket for me. Portsmouth, the skating rink, and the dockyard where, when the whistle blows, the gates open, Times have certainly changed, but those and a surging mass of workers pours out into formative years in Southsea are as fresh to me road. Today we’d be called feral, a loose gang as yesterday.

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Your local & Family Owned Funeral Home of Portsmouth & Southsea A Funeral Home, Wholly Owned by South Downs Funeral Service A Family Company 90 Elm Grove, Southsea, Hants PO5 1LN Tel: 023 92 875575 • info@mayfieldsfunerals.co.uk

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