Hamble Valley Rotary
S
troke Awareness Day this year was on 5 April so, just to be different, Hamble Valley Rotary have, with the kind permission of Hedge End Retail Park, organised to hold a ‘Know your Blood Pressure’ event at the entrance to Sainsbury’s and M&S in Hedge End on Saturday 31 May.
Local writer bares his heart in his first published novel
Access Denied by David E. Gates
It may be a strange thing to do on your way to do a food shop in Sainsbury’s or to buy some knickers in M&S but stroke affects people of all ages and fitness levels and a blood pressure check is always a good idea. It will cost you nothing and prevention is always better than cure. Hamble Valley Rotary has a link with Wyvern College and are providing assistance at some Business Master classes being provided at the College by Solent Education Business Partnership later in April and into May. If you are interested in volunteering or would like to mention a local need please get in touch through their website www.hamblevalleyrotary.co.uk
The Computer Trainer
By Paul Foley Support for XP: survival tips Q: Help! A lot of my friends have said to me that my old trusted Windows XP will not be supported as of April 2014. Should I be worried? A: Yes and no. It is true that as of the 8th April Microsoft is stopping support for Windows XP after 13 years. This means there will be no more automatic updates or security ‘patches’. This doesn’t however mean your computer will stop working (!) –after all, it’s had updates for over a decade, so it will continue to look and work just as it always has. However it won’t be as up-to-date as it could be and you could be open to ‘newer’ security flaws in the future. The best advice is to upgrade to the latest operating system, Windows 8, for around £80, or Windows 7, although the latter is increasingly hard to find! Newer is not always better, but in this case it is certainly safer! Paul Foley is the local computer tutor for Silver Training in the Southampton area. He can come to your home for 1:1 lessons on any device and for any topic; shopping, email, skype and more. Charges are £35 per hour including training materials. Please call 02380 001 290 to enquire.
Do you have a technological dilemma? A burning computer question? Write to The Computer Trainer at info@silvertraining.co.uk
David, pictured before an interview with Katie Martin for Radio Solent
D
avid E Gates lives and writes in Titchfield. His first published novel, Access Denied, is a true story.
It is a deeply personal and heart-wrenching account of him becoming a father and then finding out several years later that his daughter isn’t his. David’s story and the effect this had on him, his family and loved ones is moving and tragic and is already getting great feedback. He is currently working on his second, fictional, novel called “The Climbing Frame” and a collection of previously unpublished short stories, poems, scripts and travelogues. David has previously written film reviews for Starburst and Samhain magazines and interviewed the likes of Clive Barker, Terry Pratchett, James Herbert and many others. He has also written a number of short stories, a full-length motion picture screenplay, and the screenplay to a short film along with producing, directing and editing a documentary about the World War I memorials of Ypres in Belgium. With 100% positive reviews Access Denied is, as one reader put it, “A well told, quite extraordinary true story that stays with you. A must read for both men and women alike.” Access Denied is available at Amazon, www.lulu.com and the iBookstore. Follow the blog at www.davidegates.com
L
ook after your valued investment with regular servicing to ensure joy and appreciation for you, your family and visitors. Everyone loves a clock. Graham Harding a trained Horologist, carries out all work on movements in his specialist workshop where all movements are fully tested before being returned to their home with a guarantee. A member of the British Watch & Clockmakers Guild, Graham works to the highest possible standards making many of the required precision spares including gear wheels and pinions. Whether your clock just requires setting up, adjusting or complete restoration Graham will be pleased to help. Advice and call-outs are free. Please see the advert below for contact details including his web site.
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Computer Know How!
XP support has now officially ended. What does this mean to you? Well in actual fact you could probably continue to use the XP system for even up to a year longer.
H
owever, due to Microsoft cutting all support, Microsoft’s Security Essentials (their own antivirus) will now not work on your XP machine - so if you are worried about security threats, make sure you have Malwarebytes and another antivirus installed (Avira or Avast are recommended). If you can’t comprehend the fact that there will be no more security updates then Hypersonic recommend taking the PC to them and if the spec is good enough, they can get Windows 7 installed on the system for you, however if you feel like moving away from Microsoft we have a great solution.
• https://www.malwarebytes.org • http://www.avira.com • http://www.avast.com Worried about the end of XP support? Well if you only use your computer for standard things such as emailing, word processing, browsing, networking, file management etc. why not consider moving away from Microsoft? Linux have created an operating system called Ubuntu that will run on any PC, it performs better than a Microsoft system, it’s remarkably safe as you can’t get viruses and best of all its 100% free. However it doesn’t run off the same file system as Windows so any windows based software won’t run on Linux, nevertheless because the OS is getting much more popular companies are now having to develop their software for Ubuntu. Hypersonic can install Ubuntu alongside Windows XP for now so that you can get used to the new OS whilst still having the opportunity to seamlessly fall back to XP. They can also do this with Vista, 7 or 8. For more information about Ubuntu visit this link: http://www.ubuntu.com/desktop. Don’t forget that you can always contact Hypersonic for free impartial advice. Just give them a call for hardware and software support, tuition, web design, data retrieval, commercial and home networking, all with an efficient and friendly service. Call Wayne or Lewis at Hypersonic IT 01489 582666. Email:wayne@hypersonic.co.uk
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T
im Matthews Family Funeral Director have opened a new office at 10, Shore Road Warsash (by the clock tower) to compliment his original family funeral premises in Lyndale Road that has been in the family’s ownership since 1979. For over 40 years local familys have had to travel out of the area to either Titchfield or Park Gate when bereaved, but now there is an undertaker back in Warsash to offer help, support and professional advice when faced with bereavement. Tim’s “Locks Heath Funeral Home” in Lyndale Road just off Huntspond Road is where their Chapel of Rest is, where the care of loved ones takes place and is where Tim and his family live also. Tim says “In these days of high street shop undertakers, our clients gain great comfort in knowing that their loved one is being looked after within part of a family home. A family entrusts us with the care of their loved one, and we care for that loved one as if they are part of our family. It’s a very simple attitude, but valued greatly by our clients.” The new Warsash office is open for funeral arrangements, funeral plans, memorial headstone sales and general help and advice when faced with bereavement. The Locks Heath Funeral home at 36 Lyndale Road remains the Private Chapel of Rest, and the family home.
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F
Fareham Computer Repair
areham Computer Repair is a new business serving the local community from their Titchfield based workshop. they repair and upgrade PC's, Laptops and Tablets, and yes, that includes replacing broken screens. They also offer bespoke services: from system builds to website design and provide tailored service-contracts. A small friendly team led by Rob, you'll find them approachable and knowledgeable with a wealth of technical and creative experience. They're proud of their competitive pricing, fast turnaround time and community values. They offer a no-fix-no-fee service, don't charge for fault diagnosis and are happy to make home and business visits. Whatever your experience level, they can talk to you in your language about your needs, to find the right solution for you. They have a steadily growing, loyal customer base, receiving second and third person referrals and very positive feedback. They take pride in their service and your satisfaction but don't take their word for it, try Fareham Computer Repair today—7 days a week, They're there when you need them.
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Who will Pay for Care Fees? More and more we hear of people leaving the cost of residential and home care until there is an immediate requirement without careful consideration and specialist planning for the future. There are many misconceptions about how much the State will provide balanced against an individual’s savings and investments. For many, savings accumulated over the years penalise them as their assets are over the Means Tested Threshold at which most State support will be available to them. Government provision is limited and many people will be faced with ‘self-funding’ their residential/homecare fees, potentially depleting their assets. People are living longer, and the costs can end up being greater than originally anticipated. Whilst the average life expectancy for an individual needing long term care in a residential home is around two and a half years,* this allows for severely sick and disabled people requiring care admitted straight from hospital and therefore receiving State funding. Further statistics suggest that the average stay in a care home for a self-funder is actually more like four years, with a one in eight chance of living over seven years.* We are pleased to announce a presentation from a panel of experts who will cover the following: • what is long term care and how will it be paid for? • how can your assets be protected, what are the options and future provision? • look at use of Wills and Powers of Attorney • who can I turn to if there is a need to sell my home? • how a relationship with a team of trusted advisers can protect the recipients of residential and homecare. It is to be held at Clarke Willmott LLP, Burlington House Botleigh Grange Business Park Hedge End Southampton SO30 2AF on Thursday 22 May 2014. There will be two meeting times of either 2pm or 5pm. If you would like to attend, please contact Jo Edwards on 01489 690201 or Jo.Edwards@sjpp.co.uk to reserve your place. Will writing and Powers of Attorney involve the referral to a service that is separate and distinct to those offered by St James’s Place. Wills are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. *PSSRU, Length of Stay in Care Homes, Jan 2011 Sarah Quirk Wealth Associates represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.
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Family fun on the riverbank
Bursledon Brickworks - open again
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happy crowd gathered to see the Brickworks open again for a new and exciting 2014 season. Over the winter the museum has had a makeover thanks to a grant generously given by the Heritage Lottery Fund in 2013. The whole visitor experience is getting better and better, with a new lift, improved staircases and heated education/lecture spaces. For those wanting to understand why the Brickworks are so special you can now follow the story of how clay was transformed into millions of bricks. This self-guided tour takes you round the building and explains all the processes involved with hands on activities for all ages to try. Councillor Sean Woodward, who has been a keen supporter of the Brickworks for many years, cut the ribbon to officially open the doors. Visitors from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Hampshire Buildings Preservation Trust (the owners of the site) joined them and an interesting day was had by all.
T
he weather tried its hardest to dampen spirits but folks who hang around boats are made of sterner stuff. On the Saturday the wind tried to blow them all into the waters of Universal Marina and on the Sunday the rain tried to wash them all overboard but visitors to the Riverbank Festival at the Warsash marina still had a great time. Over the last weekend of April the independently owned marina put up a tented village and had plenty of on-water activities for the whole family, it was local people doing things for locals and in doing so raising money for local charities. Music, rock climbing, sailing simulators and river trips were all on the agenda with the emphasis on just having good fun; and smiling faces of exhibitors and visitors on the Sunday when The Informer visited said that organisers had the event just right. On the water novices were taught the art of paddleboarding and every hour there were free boat trips along the Hamble, while back on shore on the simulator visitors could try their hand at dingy sailing without fear of getting wet while youngsters climbed the rock wall and all the while live music drifted across the marina and entertained the crowds. Tel: 01489 574 272 riverbankfestival@universalmarina.co.uk Universal Marina, Crableck Lane, Sarisbury Green, SO31 7ZN
As an independent museum they have to raise all their income themselves. The new education and lecture spaces are for hire and they are exploring holding all kinds of events this year from Wedding Fairs to conferences. They also host paranormal investigations on a regular basis and are now on the map as an excellent venue for ghostly goings on. The museum is now regularly open on Wednesday, Thursday and Sundays from 11.00 – 4.00. There are always activities on offer and the cafÊ is open for refreshments. Once a month on a Sunday they hold their big events. This is when they pull out all the stops and steam up the working machinery. They vary throughout the year but always include live music, activities for children and craft stalls. They have trains and traction engines on site as well and both groups try to have a good turnout at all of our large events. The next Gala Day is on 25th May and is a celebration of transport. Get in touch if you have an old car or set of wheels that you would like to show off. More details can be found on their website: www.bursledonbrickworks.org.uk In May there is a special event happening in half term (28th, 29th May & 1st June) that concentrates on bricks. Frank Lloyd Wright, a famous architect, once marvelled that something so small could be used to make such wonderful buildings. Why not go along and see what he meant. They will be letting people try simple brick laying, looking at amazing archive material, making their own brick and watching old films of brick makers. They also have old hand operated brick and tile making machinery of their own which they will get working for the two days. Go along with your copy of the Informer and get a special entry discount: Buy one Adult/Concession ticket and get one FREE! More pictures on page 80 and for more information please contact Carolyne Haynes, Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum admin@bursledonbrickworks.org.uk 01489 576248
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One in a (quarter of a) million In similar circumstances, very few would react the way local lady Tina Hawke, known as Tina Wellman-Hawke did to personal tragedy. Following the death of her husband, Dave Wellman, from lung cancer in 1999 Tina has been a ceaseless fund raiser. Her husband has been her inspiration and motivation but it is her courage and determination coupled with her business acumen that has made her so successful in the fight against a killing disease that will touch most of us at some point in our lives. Tina is making a difference.
T
ina understands the importance of research. She founded the
lovely Rhian and mascot Wellie the Elephant in entertaining the children,
Dave Wellman Cancer Trust in 1999 and with local support and
overwhelming.
through countless staged local events, Tina has to date raised in excess of a quarter of a million pounds. There is now a Dave Wellman Lab in the Somers Cancer Sciences Building, which has been fitted with equipment needed for vital research. Tina has helped fund the running costs of the Jane Scarth House, a Befriending centre in Romsey and she also donates to the Countess Mountbatten Hospice as well as caring for individuals and families. Every year Tina takes 100 children, siblings, mums and dads from Piam Brown childrens ward on the beautiful ship, the Princess Caroline, for a
In 2013 Tina won the regional and national Venus Woman in Business “Lifetime Achievement” Award for her fundraising. However her most proud moment was when she was asked to be an Ambassador for the new 10 million pound project for the new Cancer Immunology Centre in Southampton. The campaign is currently underway, with the Southampton Centre for Cancer Immunology opening in 2016. Along with the scientists, Tina is pleased to speak from the family perspective with the human and warm side of her experiences, whilst
wonderful trip.
trying to engage people to understand how important the research is.
Tina finds the kindness of the owners Andi & Jay and the crew, plus the
This month, Tina spoke to The Informer:
“My story starts way back in 1997, when
“With the venue booked, we spent Dave’s last
know first-hand how truly amazing this drug is,
my late husband Dave was diagnosed with
few weeks talking, reminiscing and just being
and all the research that took place to bring it to
non-small cell cancer. It was at that time
together. Sadly Dave died on the 3rd of August
fruition. None of us envisaged that 4 years on,
he was taken under the wing of Professor
1999. Dave knew the ball would occupy my
my sister would be diagnosed with the same
Peter Johnson and his team. Dave endured
mind, and it did. I organised everything in a
cancer as my late husband. She was, and still
matter of weeks with 400 guests willing to
is being treated by the same marvellous team
put hand in pocket and raising an amazing
as Dave was. The magic tablet as she calls it,
£21,000, all for Professor Johnson and his
turned out to be suitable for her and within days
work. A further 6 balls took place over the
she could feel the benefits. Well, Terri looks
coming years, with the majority of the money
wonderful and is defying all odds. Her courage
day with great breakthroughs being achieved.
raised donated to the research programme.
and positive attitude to fight this disease our
Sadly, Dave lost his battle in 1999. Dave told
“In 2006, the research team invited me and
researchers are working hard to eradicate, is
over 2 years of intense chemotherapy and radiotherapy and during that time he also had a heart attack. Dave had really been through the mill. However, behind the scenes we both knew that important research was going on every
Peter on our last visit that I would be organising something to raise money for the research that may help others. A thank you really for all the wonderful care and support both Dave and I
some of my supporters to visit the labs, so that we could see what great things were being
inspirational. Although she has had many ups and downs, she is enjoying each day as much
achieved. It was explained in depth about the
as she can, and still smiling.
research being carried out, and in particular the
“I have followed and supported the research
had. Dave knew he did not have long and it
news of how taking just one tablet a day, like
element and I can see that every penny put
was he who instigated the first ball; he even
you would with heart disease or diabetes, could
into research is making a huge impact and
chose the date, April fool’s day 2000.
make a difference to a life, by giving it quality. I
improving the lives of cancer patients. I have
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spent the last 15 years helping with my fund raising and educating to raise awareness of the breakthroughs being made in Southampton. I have forged a good relationship with the research team and this spurs me on to help in any way I can. Over the years I have seen the progress and how only a few years ago chemotherapy and radiotherapy were the only options. Then the tablet, and now we look forward to the Cancer Immunology Centre where working with one’s own immune system is quite honestly amazing. “So although Dave, 17 years ago, had the best options available to him at that time, Terri is on her journey, where her treatment is giving her
better quality of life. Now there is John, who has been part of local trials, who 6 years on is testament to the breakthroughs being made in Southampton already. “I hope you can see that my experience has made me understand that without research we will never see the way forward in the fight against cancer. I know that in generations to come, these breakthroughs will be available for our children and their children’s, children. I feel very proud to say that my fundraising has gone some way to give my sister a good quality of life. I can honestly say this centre will change the future of cancer science and I am very proud to be part of it. There truly is light at the end of the tunnel. “
To find out more about the University of Southampton Centre for Cancer Immunology Campaign there is a short You Tube video: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=b9VdJHTT8pk&sns=em
Upcoming Events for The Dave Wellman Cancer Trust Monday 23rd June 2014 – The Chewton Glen Rhian Fashion House – Ladies Lets Lunch – Tickets £59 Call Sandy 01489 570560 Sunday 7th September 2014 – Annual Strawberry Walk 6 or 4 mile – Set off from Royal Victoria Country Park around the Hamble coastline – Entry £10 includes Strawberry & Cream (Thanks to Axton’s) and Water. For details contact Tina. Friday 10th October 2014 – Rowlands Castle Golf Club – Autumn Ball in Memory of Jamie Whitehouse proceeds to DWCT & CLIC Sargent – Organised by Sarah Kirk and Sponsored by SG Consultancy – Tickets from Sarah on 07427102151 Monday 27th October 2014 – St Mary’s Church Warsash – Rhian Fashion House Ladies Lets Lunch – Tickets £29 Call Sandy 01489 570560 Saturday 22nd November 2014 – Dianne & Martin Bellamy Christmas Craft Fair – 15 Hogarth Close, Romsey, Hants, SO51 7TF – All Welcome! TBC – Matt Glasspool – AKA our mascot - Welly the Elephant – Charity Bike Ride Dates/Quiz All photographs supplied by Tina “Celebrities, friends and special occasions”. Tina would like to say “thank you” to Tony her husband, her friends and supporters www.dwct.net Email: tina@dwct.net Mobile: 07802 711219
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Villages at war With the centenary of the outbreak of World War I being commemorated across the south, here at The Informer, we felt it was a good time to look back at what life was like in our villages back then. In some cases the tight-knit communities lost all of their young men.
W
ith the world at war, what was life like here at home? Fathers away at battle, the old and less fit acting as a brave Home Guard yet in the villages, for many, life seemed to carry on as normal. But just how normal was it when it was reported that in 1914 between 30 and 40 men of Bishop’s Waltham immediately volunteered to serve in the army? In those days, volunteers could possibly have represented a large proportion of the fit and eligible male population of the village. Shortly after their enlistment Northbrook House became a hospital for wounded soldiers and because of the proximity to Portsmouth naval base it was a convenient base for the armed forces before embarkation. In the Titchfield History Society book, ‘A Place in History’, it Photo by C. H. May is shown that despite the conflicts, life still had to go on as normally as possible. They say that the number of tradesmen did they know back then another conflict was on the way that would take and shopkeepers during World War I indicated they could supply 12 more loved ones from them and new names would have to be inscribed. everything for the needs of the town’s inhabitants. Mr West of the High Street was one of a number of butchers in the town and he supplied beef, It was hard for life to continue with any sort of normality along the south sirloin and steak and all still delivered by an errand boy. coast during World War II. The blitz hit Southampton and Portsmouth and A lard cake from the bakery would cost just 4d back then and a bill made out to a Mr Bunney from a Sarisbury Green butcher showed that meat supplied between November 1916 and April 1917 totalled 15s 4½p and the debt was not settled until the following August. And a uniform supplier during 1918 was still busy supplying clothing for the servants of the local rich people. 1917 was a severe winter according to reports and while men froze and were subjected to trench foot on the battlefields of Europe for a plumber in Titchfield life remained busy because thanks to a big freeze between February and March that year he was thawing pipes and repairing burst ones. Mary Watts lived in the village at the time and in the book she recalls, ‘I can remember in the First World War soldiers with bands marching up Southampton Hill on their way to the docks.’ Across the county, in both wars, land was given over to the growing of crops. Even playing fields and parks were ploughed for growing more food for a hungry nation. Every village and every town had to put their backs into the war effort. Southwick realised that an army marches on its stomach and so they joined in the Hampshire County Pie Scheme. A letter from the HCPS dated 4th June 1913 reads, ‘I have today heard from the Ministry of Food that the Pie Scheme for Southwick has been approved and will start on Tuesday 8th June. From then on they produced some 300 pies a week with more allowed if required. Lee-On-Solent grew in importance in 1917 when enemy submarines began causing huge losses with our merchant convoys. On 30th July that year the naval Seaplane Training School opened where the slip ran down to the gravel beach and into the sea. Over the years it saw many changes until in 1939 it became HMS Daedalus and the airfield operation was extended. Every village and town paid a high price, but because of the smaller populations all felt the loss of any resident from the villages as if it were close family. During WWI, 33 men from Botley died and, as with most villages, their names are on the memorial that was erected in 1921. Little
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figures at the time reported that some 1630 lives were lost and 4743 were seriously injured in the two towns. This made the role of the surrounding villages vital. Botley was a staging post for troops heading overseas and into the action; the residents of the village were probably the last friendly faces they saw before facing the enemy on the beaches during D-Day. Netley on Southampton Water, as it had during the Crimea War, was where the Royal Victoria Hospital repaired many of our war wounded. At the outbreak of WWI a large Red Cross hutted hospital was built across the back of the site to accommodate 2000 beds and during the war some 50,000 wounded were treated. Similar numbers in WWII owe their well-being to the staff at Netley with 68,000 being treated. For those not so fortunate the cemetery alongside the hospital became their last resting place. Indeed if we look at many of the memorials, the Rolls of Honour seemed to be filled with family members.. How many families in the villages, where seemingly life carried on as ‘normal’, lost fathers, sons and brothers and in later conflicts mothers, daughters and sisters too? British resolve always stands strong whenever things get tough and throughout the villages of Hampshire that resolve was never stronger. Research shows that for the best part life just carried on, but at such a high cost.
Motoring Would you wear a pair of shabby shoes with your best suit? So why should your car??!
I
f you need your shoes re-healing properly, where do you go? Maybe you know of an experienced cobbler, but a shoe bar is cheaper and quicker, they attempt to do the same as the cobbler– you’ll be familiar with the feeling of disappointment when you collect the shoes, enough said! Well…The Wheel Specialist don’t refurbish shoes, wheels are their business … did you know that once wheels are damaged they can be refurbished fully? Their service is extremely thorough and precise; all the work is carried out at their premise in Segensworth. You won’t need to buy a whole new set of wheels; your wheel will be returned back to their former glory in one day. Guy Salmon, Meridien, Snows and the Ridgeway Group to name a few have all been using their various services over the years, they are delighted to announce they have entered their seventh year of trading and are looking forward to the next seven! They thoroughly recommend interested customers pop in to see what they do, they’ll happily show you their entire process – go and have a play with wheels and have a coffee, it would be great to see how they can help! Remember if you want a job doing properly; go to the experts to save any disappointment. They look forward to seeing you soon … The Wheel Specialist Tel: 01329 846040, www.thewheelspecialist.co.uk Unit 16, The IO Center, Stephenson Road, Segensworth, PO15 5RU
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Fun at the farm It does not matter how often you visit, there is always something to captivate and charm when calling in at Manor Farm and this time of year is the very best with new-born piglets, chicks, rabbits and pigs to enjoy and they will bring out the ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ from children and parents. If you have never visited, then you and your family are in for a pleasant surprise and a day of treats.
M
anor Farm is reached by taking the mile and a half long lane that snakes through a stunning country park filled with amazing walks, open picnic areas and playgrounds; every inch of this woodland and riverside park is an adventure. At the end of the drive is a real working farm, except this farm is a step back in time and is run like a Victorian farmstead, with the addition now of reflecting farming practices from WWII since the screening of Wartime Farm on the BBC, which was filmed at Manor Farm. Outside the farm entrance families enjoy the spring sunshine with picnics and food from the on-site café; no food can be taken into the farmyard as it is a working farm and there would be health risks. Once through the barn entrance a world of adventure awaits. Ancient tractors that still work the fields, chickens running free, a cow corralled outside the milking shed and sheep and rams held firmly behind their fences. Behind the stable block is a pretty lake and on the other side of that a 13th Century church that is well worth the visit. Alongside the stable are the pig pens, where little piglets scamper and push for food. One lazy fellow snuggled down in the soft rubber feed bucket for a nap. In the semi-darkness of the pens a sow fed her brood of piglets under a warming lamp. Out in the yard the period costumed farmhands offered the new arrivals to the children for gentle fussing. There are a pair of goats on leads who were behaving like naughty puppies, a rabbit kitten, so small it barely fits in the palm of one small hand, sat quietly and contentedly while it was
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gently stroked under guidance of the farmhand and all the while irritable chickens scraped around the yard while a grand cockerel stood and watched everything from the barn doorway with a superior look on his face. In the barn children gazed down into boxes of tiny yellow chicks. Then into the cottage garden where market crops grow and a flower bed offers a splash of colour. The white-walled cottage houses rooms that show exactly how people lived on the farm both in Victorian times and now during the war years, while one part of the house is laid out as a school room. Out in the courtyard behind the house children learn to play with the simplest of toys, the hoop-and-stick, not as easy as it looks. Up to the top paddocks and fields, coops hold chickens of various breeds, include the wonderfully white and punky looking silkies. More pigs and plenty of chickens to feed and then a wonderful walk around the paddocks to where the pony rides and play area offer even more entertainment for youngsters. There is so much to see and enjoy, much of it hands-on, at Manor Farm plus there is the added bonus of some good clean fresh air away from traffic and the 21st century. It is a step back in time to a period when the people who lived it never knew anything different, it was just their way of life and this is a fine chance to experience a little of their lives while also having fun. Forget computer games and TV shows, get the children out onto the farm, they will get involved and have the chance to dress up in period costume and question the farmer and his wife as well as the farmhands about life back long before any of their games, or even TV, were ever invented.
www3.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm Manor Farm Home Front Weekend Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th June 10am – 5pm The farm is transported to the 1940s for the weekend for re-enactments, displays and stalls and all with a wartime theme. Also a great treat for Fathers’ Day.
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What’s On
Stories old and new at The Berry Theatre this summer
P
uppetry, theatre and comedy feature at The Berry Theatre this summer when tales old and new are coming to the Hedge End venue, with something for all ages. The season kicks off with a retelling of Lewis Carroll’s – Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Metta Theatre presents Alice on May 24, a poignant reworking of the Carroll classic, set in World War One and using puppetry and object manipulation to bring the characters to life.
Glee for grown-ups
S
INGING IS GOOD FOR YOU! It’s medically proven: you live happier, healthier and longer. Opening your mouth and belting out your favourite song feels amazing. When you’re doing it as part of a group it’s a million times better. At Glee Club UK they sing great songs, laugh a lot and have a brilliant time! Watch the taster video on their website to see for yourself what they get up to during a typical, friendly and informal session, or look us up on Facebook. Even better still, go to a session…your first visit is totally free! Once you become a member, it costs just £60 a term, with a monthly payment option.It’s time for just being YOU and a fantastic way to de-stress. Here is what their members are saying: “I looked for ages to find an adult singing group like this. I didn’t want classical or serious, just to sing for myself and have fun.”
“I can’t imagine life without Glee and the wonderful new friends I have made.”
Another classic is given a new lease of life on May 30 when Circo Ridiculoso brings their version of the Three Little Pigs to Hedge End. Danny has been sent a story telling crate, containing all the props for the story or does it? Watch as Danny tells the story with circus skills and comedy.
So what are you waiting for? No need to book - just turn up! Contact Liz on 07821 163498 or visit gleeclubuk.com for details.
Nina Bawden’s wartime tale of evacuees is brought to the stage on June 27. Apollo Theatre Company presents Carrie’s War a tale of how Carrie Willow discovers the joys and terrors of the countryside. Fee Fi Fo Fum – a giant of a show comes to the venue on July 5 when Lyngo Theatre presents Jack and the Beanstalk. Audiences can expect plenty of surprises as Jack finds himself in the land above the clouds. Little ones will love another fantastical tale based on Polly Dunbar’s book Arthur’s Dream Boat. Arthur has an amazing dream about a beautiful boat with a stripy mast, he can’t wait to tell everyone about it but no one is interested, in fact no one even notices when the boat starts to grow on his head. Long Nose Puppets presents Arthur’s Dream Boat on July 23. The ever popular Saturday Storytime returns to the venue for the season. Join the magical storytellers in the enchanted story garden on May 10 and 31, June 7 and 28 and July 19. And there will be plenty of laughs when Comedy Club 4 Kids returns to the venue on June 28. Aimed at everyone aged six and over the club features top comedians from across the UK doing what they do best but without the rude bits. Adults aren’t forgotten either this season with two nights of comedy being lined up at the venue. Tipped as the next big thing Hal Cruttenden brings his Tough Luvvie Tour to the Berry Theatre on June 20, where football, Facebook and food will be among the topics up for discussion. Novelist and comedian Mark Watson brings his new show Flaws to the venue in July. A TV regular Mark returns to the road with his darkest, most personal show to date. To find out more about everything that’s going on at The Berry Theatre this summer or to book tickets visit www.theberrytheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 023 8065 2333.
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Your essential guide to all the local news and events in your community Friends of Hamble Primary School 6th-10th May – Foreign Coin & Notes Collection Week Friends Of Hamble Primary School are collecting unwanted foreign coins and notes, even those that are no longer in circulation such as francs & marks to raise funds for the school. You can drop off your unwanted coins to Hamble Primary School Office or Contact Katie 0238045 3678/foshambleprimary@gmail.com to arrange collection. 12th – 16th May – Pre-Loved Collection Week Friends Of Hamble Primary School are collecting pre-loved items, such as Fancy Dress, School Uniform, Books, Games, DVD’s, Console Games that are in good clean condition. You can drop off your pre-loved goods to Hamble Primary School Office or contact Katie 0238045 3678/foshambleprimary@gmail.com to arrange collection.
Lurcher Rescue and many more. Dog Show - Show your dog - entry fee £1 raising funds to help the cats and dogs in China Have your dog micro chipped free by the Dogs Trust (all dogs will have to be chipped so get it done free).Refreshments and a raffle. All proceeds to help animals in need.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust events May Wed 14 Titchfield Navigation Walk 2pm Join Peter Adams for a gentle stroll along the footpath beside the Tichfield Navigation from the Meon Shore to Titchfield and back, a total of approximately 4 miles. Park and meet near the toilets at the west end of the Meon Shore (Map ref. SU 530 023). Contact Peter Adams on 01329 287653 or email peter-adams1@live.co.uk Suggested donation £2. Dogs on leads welcome.
19th – 23rd May – Unwanted Gifts Collection Week Friends Of Hamble Primary School are collecting new & unused unwanted gifts, such as toiletries sets, perfume, aftershave, games, books, chocolates anything that is new and unused. You can drop off your unwanted gifts to Hamble Primary School Office or Contact Katie 0238045 3678/foshambleprimary@gmail.com to arrange collection.
Thu 22 Tree Identification Walk 6.30pm An evening walk to Little Phrympth Copse led by Phil Jeffs. Meet at the Hampshire Bowman pub, Dundridge Lane, Bishops Waltham SO32 1GD, ending up back at the pub around 8.30pm. Contact Jane Gentry on 01489 890961 or e-mail janegentry@btinternet.com Suggested donation £2. Everyone welcome to join them for a drink or meal afterwards.
23rd May – 2.30-4.00pm Baked Goods Sale Year 1 & 2 parents are donating baked goods, we also have a cafe and other items for sale at the School in the Main Hall Hamble Primary School, Hamble Lane. Contact Katie 02380 453678
Tue 27 Brilliant Bugs and Beautiful Beasties 10.30am-12noon or 1-2.30pm Go along to Swanwick Lakes to discover and celebrate all things creepy and crawly at this event for families. Please bring coats and wellies. Booking is essential as places are limited. Contact Dawn Preston or Jess Daish-Miller on 01489 570240 or e-mail SwanwickLakes@ hiwwt.org.uk. Suggested donation £3 per child.
Local Animal Welfare Charity Spring Bazaar
Saturday 10 May 2014 10.00 am- 1.00 pm Wesley Halls, Whites Road, Bitterne Entry fee Adults 50p Children free Animal Charity Stalls including Second Chance Animal Rescue, Animals Asia Foundation, Animal Aid, Southern
Wed 28 Flowers and Birds of Milton Common 7pm Go and explore this interesting but difficult conservation area. Meet and park in the car parks at the end of Locksway Rd, Portsmouth (Map ref. SZ 677 998). Contact John Goodspeed on 07811 435252 or e-mail john@havantnature.net. Suggested donation £1.50. Dogs on leads welcome.
Thu 29 Shore Explorers 1.30-3pm Plants and animals of many kinds live at Milton Locks Nature Reserve. Go and explore the grassland and the sea shore and help them investigate what is living there. An event for families with children of all ages. Milton Locks Nature Reserve, Locksway Road, Milton, Portsmouth PO4 8LT (Map ref. SZ 6768 9979). Contact Jess Daish-Miller on 01489 570240. Please bring warm coats and wellies. Booking by Tuesday 27th May is essential as places are limited. Suggested donation £3 per child. Sorry, no dogs. For details of all the events, check out www.hiwwt.org.uk
The Wellbeing Fair
Locks Heath Centre Saturday 17th May 11am - 2pm Reiki Healing, Massage, Tui-Na, Reflexology, Flower and Gem Essences, Japanese Hand Massage, Psychic Readings, Tarot Readings, Crystals, Life Coaching, Nutrition and Diet and Personal Trainers. Entry £1, toilets and refreshments. Main Hall, Lockswood Centre, Locks Heath Shopping Village SO31 6DX Please call Sj on 07901 501509 Email:sjbooty@yahoo.co.uk
New Music Makers Choir
present their concert ‘MANY LITTLE MELODIES’ with an appearance by guest musicians at THE BERRY THEATRE, HEDGE END on Saturday June 7th 2014 at 2.30pm. The concert will include the songs ‘Pinball Wizard’, ‘Your Song’, ‘Sloop John B’, a selection of songs from James Bond, and a selection of First World War Songs Tickets are priced at £10, £8 concessions, and are available from Jesters Jewellery, Hedge End. The Berry Theatre Box Office.01489 799499 or by phone on 01489 781836 Refreshments available.
If you have a local event let us know at editorial@solentlife.co.uk informergroup.co.uk
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Local faces in The Informer The opening of Bursledon Brickworks by Councillor Sean Woodward
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aparazzi Easter Bonnet Parade at Locks Heath Shopping Village with the Mayor of Fareham
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Local faces in The Informer Rhian’s fashion show raising money for Councillor Susan Bayford’s charities
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