solentlife.co.uk AUGUST 2011
ISSUE 76
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girl power fastnet challenge
revisit your local
seaside
guide to what’s on the
plus your essential local business
directory ART REVIEWS
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INTERIORS
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GARDENS
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HE ALTH & BE AU T Y
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W H AT ’ S O N
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contents
welcome ISSUE 76 • AUGUST 2011
PARK GATE EDITION
I am amazed to discover just how widely our magazine is read every month. We have a huge online following in the UK and we know of groups of readers in South Africa and Australia but we have even had competition entries from Poland. If you are a reader from beyond our shores, please send us an email and let us know where you are. Those who are following the journey of the Fastnet Ladies will know that this month is the big race itself. We have organised a quayside send-off party for the ladies which will be on Saturday 13th August – details are included in our feature. We are all at sea this month with features on our region’s seaside and beaches, a shore-side walk and the Fastnet Ladies; even our Artist Review highlights an artist who specialises in underwater scenes. Now that the school holidays are well underway we take a tonguein-cheek look at kitting out the kids for that return to school. As I write this the weather is still not particularly summery but I hope everybody enjoys this holiday season. Wherever you might be going, whether home or away, we hope you have a great time. We will be here waiting for you when you return – and rest assured, no mobile phones have been hacked in the making of our magazine.
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contactus
in this issue…
Tel… 01489 583800 • Fax… 01489 583803 Online… www.solentlife.co.uk • Email… info@solentlife.co.uk
14… Wound Up… • The Warsash Clock tower is restored
WEBB HOUSE, 20 BRIDGE ROAD, PARK GATE, HAMPSHIRE, S031 7GE
19… Beach Life • Head to the beach for a staycation. 24… The Interview • Hampshire Chamber of Commerce
features
Solent Life Magazine
theteam
to its former glory.
Chief Executive Jimmy Chestnutt.
29… Happy 90th Birthday • Carters of Swanwick
Editorial
Dave Hill – Managing Editor Tel… 01489 583743 • Email… davehill@solentlife.co.uk David Rose-Massom – Senior Journalist Email… editorial@solentlife.co.uk
celebrate
52… The Greatest Challenge • Our Fastnet Ladies head for the starting line.
56… Out and About • Solent ‘Life’
regulars
Advertising Sales Sarah Kent Tel… 01489 583815 Email… sarah@solentlife.co.uk
Janet Grimm Tel… 01489 583800 Email… janet@solentlife.co.uk
Tina Maggs Tel… 01489 584057 Email… tina@solentlife.co.uk
Barbara Smith Tel… 01489 584010 Email… barbara@solentlife.co.uk
Design & Production
06… Weston Shore Walk • A stroll beside the Itchen. 10… Artist Review • BBC underwater artist of the year Samm McKinnon
22… Restaurant Review • Park your tractor for an evening at the Bold Forester.
38… Road Test • Hold on to your hats. The Abarth Punto Evo.
Design by SolentLife Email… design@solentlife.co.uk • Online… solentlife.co.uk
31… Back to Nature • A busy month down
Deadline for advertising copy & editorial for next issue: 17th August 2011
48… Gardening • Achieve a longer flowering period from
Publisher
64… What’s On Guide • Reviews, events, theatre
Published by Living Coast Media. © Copyright Solent Life 2011. All rights reserved. No part of Solent Life Magazine can be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure all information is correct, the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions contained within.
in the marshes. your garden favourites. and music coming your way
66… Mindgym • try out our latest puzzles. solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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Room 8 girls are hair students of the year Congratulations to Lizzie Horn and Alex Cook Both passed their hairdressing qualifications to complete their training. Lizzie and Alex were also awarded the high accolade of “Student Of The Year” for hairdressing by their respective training Colleges.
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Lizzie, who trained with Academy 5 in Fareham received her award at the Academy 5 hair awards ceremony at Fernham Hall, Fareham on 18th July. Lizzie Horn (above) Alex Cook (Below)
While Alex Cook received her award as “Student Of The Year” for hairdressing from Fareham College at their Awards Ceremony on May 24th. Their awards took in to consideration their hairdressing abilities, presentation, team work, appearance, punctuality, attendance and commitment. Both were obviously overjoyed with their individual awards.
“Both Lizzie and Alex have worked hard and show how dedicated they are to their profession, showing their potential. They are a real credit to Room 8 and continue to reflect the high standards we set. I am very proud of them both”. Said Keith Pascoe, owner at Room 8 Hair and Beauty. www.room8-beauty.co.uk | 01489 582660
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seasidewalk
weston shore & nature reserve A nature reserve, a long curving beach, a castle built for a king and a famous old ruin and all part of one glorious walk on an afternoon that went from cloud to sunshine; birds, butterflies and roe deer all met me and watched as I passed by. words & images • david rose-massom
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or generations families have flocked to the shingle beach of Weston Shore on Southampton Water to enjoy the seaside experience and indulge in cones of swirling ice-cream, but as I pulled into the car park that hugged the shoreline the sign for a nature reserve caught my attention and suddenly the waterside walk became the exploration of woodland. The green canopy was tightly-knit and what little sun was peaking through the clouds failed to reach much of the forest floor. That small amount of light though was enough to get the winged residents singing their hearts out; up in the trees the young close to fledging were also in loud voice as they cried out for more food from busy parents. The broad footpaths through the Westwood nature reserve are hard packed gravel and soil. Although not exactly wheelchairfriendly they are certainly passable with a little pushing and bouncing, I would say
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
worth the effort! Every now and again the scenery opens out into sunlit clearings and within yards of entering the woods I spotted a one-horned roe deer buck sitting among the stumps of cleared birch trees. He did not seem bothered by my arrival and sat happily as the camera lens pointed in his direction. He finally stood, turned his back on me as if to prove he was not bothered by the human intervention and with his one eight-inch antler standing proud he wandered off into the trees. Around a bend in the path another clearing had the footings of an old building surrounded by the purple hanging flowers of foxgloves; hardly noticeable at first, I had the feeling of being watched. A head moved and a doe’s face became clear through the flower display. Again this normally very nervous of creatures just slowly stood and wandered off, it seemed fearlessly. Butterflies were flitting everywhere and with it being a warm day they continued to dance above the flowers despite
having a camera pointing at them ready for their close-ups. A bee was much more accommodating and he slid from plant to plant, allowing the trumpet flowers to engulf him each time as he searched for pollen and nectar. A muddy-bottomed stream passed under the path feeding a pair of brackish pools of water where pond skaters skipped across the surface. At a T-junction in the footpath where a signpost was missing its directional arrow I turned towards the sea, the breeze coming from there and bringing with it the smell of low tide and muddy shores. Another footpath climbed a steep hill into the trees; it was meant to be explored, the roots of the trees making natural steps in the hillside. Out of the woods and into the afternoon sun, a green woodpecker flew across the wideopen grassland with its distinctive dipping and gliding motion and I followed him, once again moving away from the shore. This was turning out to be a much larger reserve than expected. Meandering down footpath after footpath, always following the most worn route and always aware of where to head because of where the shore was, each time it felt as if the route was heading back to my start point. I wandered away slightly aware that off to my left was Netley Abbey and the grey stone walls were part of my destination. Eventually the path emerged on the roadside and a few dozen yards to my right along the road was an entrance that brought
me out on the shoreline. My woodland walk had now become a stroll along the shore. The water sparkled with a million diamonds of reflected sunlight. Children played on the water’s edge or even ventured out further into Southampton Water. Boats, both leisure and commercial, ferried back and forth and from the front of Weston Sailing Club dinghies of several breeds set sail and were quickly powered by a stiff breeze. The footpath continues its route around the back of their clubhouse before once again hugging the shore. A vast expanse of green allowed families to picnic and play ball, while on the waterfront soggy dogs chased sticks thrown by adoring owners; a chocolate Labrador called Gilbert danced around on the shingle, the old boy becoming once again a lively puppy. Then the first history lesson of the day as the path crosses in front of the stunning soft grey walls of Netley Castle. I had always been told it was built as a hunting lodge for Henry VIII, but two sources of research informed that the castle was built around 1542 as part of Henry’s chain of coastal fortifications. It is believed that it operated as a fort from 25th March 1545, when the records for payments to the garrison began. Whatever its reason for being built, it is now a nursing home and a beautiful building. Another vast expanse of greenery, where children enjoyed the playground and couples held hands and sunbathed – a real family destination for locals as it has been for
generations. Leaving the sea behind I headed toward the heart of Netley and another few yards of roadside walking and there almost hidden behind a hedge were the magnificent ruins of the abbey which shares its name with the village. The ruined medieval monastery was founded in 1239 as a house for monks of the Cistercian order, and despite being a royal abbey it was never rich, produced no influential scholars or churchmen and spent most of its 300-year history in obscurity. The monks were best known for the generous hospitality they offered to travellers on both land and sea. In 1536 Netley Abbey was closed during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries and the building was converted into a mansion by a wealthy Tudor politician. It was eventually abandoned and a great part of the walls was used as building materials, leaving history, and us, with the wonderful ruins that remain. I came for a leisurely hour or so wandering the shoreline of Weston and Netley, maybe to relive some of my childhood which was spent on those shores, but the day ended with almost four hours of exploration through a wonderful nature reserve and I finally travelled through eight hundred years of history. A beautiful and varied walk on what turned out to be a wonderful summer’s day. l
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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artistreview
samm
mckinnon Samm Mackinnon has recently been announced as the BBC Wildlife Artist of the Year in the Beneath the Sea category. words & images • david rose-massom
A
few years ago in the pages of Solent Life we featured an artist who to this day remains a firm favourite. After visiting her in her home studio I had to purchase one of her ethereal undersea images and I began her story with the lines: ‘When the day is grey and miserable and the world has done its best to spoil life I stand in my lounge and look at a painting of an underwater scene. The sea in that painting is a deep blue with a ring of light filtering down from the calm surface; warm tropical sunlight filters downward until it captures in its warm glow a circling shoal of golden fish – then whatever the mood my day is lifted and my life brightened.’ That still holds very true and now others have recognised her skill as an artist. Samm Mackinnon has recently been announced as the BBC Wildlife Artist of the Year in the Beneath the Sea category, so
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
why on earth would she change her painting style and take on new subjects? Before she answered that question she explained what this prestigious award meant to her. “I went to pick up my work from the competition when they asked if they could hold on to one of them, and it took a while for what they were asking to sink in,” she said. “I was speechless for thirty seconds and then I just skipped back to my car – in my forties and I was skipping! It still hasn’t really sunk in,” she said beaming from ear to ear. Samm, who had been a finalist last year, explained that there were thirteen categories in the Wildlife Artist Awards and she was up against more than a thousand other entries from artists around the world. “It was an amazing personal achievement; for a self-taught artist I do think this is an amazing achievement.” Almost as amazing was another achievement just a few months ago: the birth of her son Will, now six months old and
a welcome addition to the family of husband Don and other son Tom. One thing about all of Samm’s work is that her world travels have always influenced what she paints. Born in Guernsey but now living on the edge of the Solent Life area just north of Portsmouth, Samm has travelled extensively and it was her time in Australia that brought on the change of direction. Although she has produced just a few canvases of this new theme, she has already stamped an unmistakeable identity on her work. Those who know her work always know when they are looking at a Samm Mackinnon. “I did it because I had this photograph of some old cars which I had taken in Australia and it was something I had always wanted to paint; not only that I wanted to paint it big,” she said. “As your confidence grows as an artist then in many cases so does your canvas size; I have my eye on a 6’ by 8’ canvas now. “No matter how good you feel or how good your work has become, or even how many you sell, there is something in your mind and you want to paint it. I was in Australia in 1994–95 and it just so happened the time had arrived for me to paint this image,” Samm continued. “I think it is a case of working the subject and style until it reaches a natural conclusion. You take on something new just to see if you can do it, especially when you have been self-taught. “As an artist you read books and see other work for inspiration and then you go for it; it is all a learning curve. I would be worried if that process didn’t happen. The creative juices flow and it is nice doing the research for a piece of work following an idea.”
Does this mean that fish and undersea images have reached their conclusion? “ I have always been attracted to the sea and I love bright colours, the light you get; I just love the sea.” As we reported before, Samm suffers from asthma and so cannot scuba dive but she can and does snorkel. “Over the years I have honed the waves of light through the water and I like to create shoals of fish that would not normally swim together, but at least they would be in the same part of the ocean; it can only work like that in the sea! “There will be more underwater images. I will not paint dolphins because I do not want my work to get too twee, but there is still plenty of underwater work to do, especially following the BBC award. “There are certain fish that need exposure and I want to take people diving under the water with me,” she added. She is not finished above the waves yet though. “Skies look like being the next thing,” she admitted as we looked at a wonderful lighthouse image she recalls from when she was in New Zealand. Above the lighthouse are blue skies and wispy, dreamy clouds floating through the painting. “I did skies years ago and I have the feeling that I now want to do vibrant and dramatic skies. I will still do the fish and the children’s stuff that I have always done, but I do want to do some skies. “It is a split second thing when looking at clouds as the light changes during different parts of the day, and then when the sun sets the colours change and they reflect on the sea. There is a freedom painting something so simple but I want to be able to catch that single moment.”
“Most of my work does have a fantasy feel to it. My fish, for example, are real fish, but on occasion I take some artistic licence with colours and shades and so they are a representation of what I see but based on realism. My coral backdrops are all taken from one image that I have but I have never copied it exactly. I must have the right type of fish in the right environment but then I paint what I see in my mind’s eye.” Samm works first from very rough sketches, to ensure the balance of the painting is right. “Backgrounds first and then I chalk in the shapes of the fish, and the swirl of their movement has to be a happy shape and you just have to trust that you are seeing it right.” Samm Mackinnon may be changing direction occasionally and stretching herself as an artist but she will always come back to the scenes she loves and the light that glows from her undersea images. Her latest success in the BBC Wildlife Artist of the Year is well-deserved and if you want something to brighten your life then take a look at her fish images, her cars in the Australian outback or her New Zealand lighthouse – in fact, any piece from this artist will be a piece to treasure and enjoy. l Samm Mackinnon www.sammmackinnonart.com Email mail@sammmackinnonart.com
ARTIST REVIEW SPONSORSHIP Our Artist Review is kindly sponsored by WHITE DOG GALLERY, Lee On Solent 023 9255 2255. Creating quality with style wwww.whitedoggallery.co.uk
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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solent‘life’
art
PIP McGARRY
exhibitions
Over the months and years we have highlighted some amazing artists here in the pages of your Solent Life and it is the time of year for many of those featured and for many more we have not managed to capture to show their work to the public at large. words & images • david rose-massom
M
IWAS is the acronym for the Marwell International Wildlife Artists Society and their annual show in the stunning house that sits in the grounds of the wildlife park is nothing short of spectacular. Artist in Residence for Marwell and organiser of the annual event Pip McGarry told Solent Life, “The exhibition this year will run from Thursday 25th August to Monday 29th August inclusive and be held in the beautiful grounds of Marwell Wildlife Park. It is the world's largest exhibition of wildlife art with over two hundred artists and sculptors exhibiting and around 600 exhibits on display in the main exhibition. There is also a large art market housed in a vast marquee adjacent to the exhibition in which artists and sculptors will be doing demonstrations and selling prints, cards, photos, 3D work and original paintings. There is a great atmosphere and every year we receive tremendous feedback from the many guests who attend the show.” Not only does this premier show grow in size and importance each year but so does the talent on display with some of the most stunning wildlife images and sculptures to be seen from both professional and amateur artists from around the world. The WARSASH ART GROUP is typical of
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the art societies around the Solent Life area, full of talent, full of ambition and passionate about their art. No matter which art group is on display there are always works of note among them and year on year as we visit it is a magical experience to see the improvement and sometimes the change of direction for the members/artists. The group was founded way back in 1958 with the aim of furthering members’ interest in the visual arts and they currently have around 190 members who come from a wide area of south Hampshire. They include some professional artists, but most are enthusiastic amateurs and art lovers. Their evening meetings are held in St Mary’s Church Hall, Church Road, Warsash, on the first Thursday of each month except August, and this year their annual exhibition of members’ work is open to the public from 18th to 21st August at Victory Hall, Warsash Road, Warsash. The work is of a high standard, well-presented and includes a craft table with displays of pottery, wood carving and sculpture. If sculpture is your thing then your main destination this summer has to be Beaulieu and the grounds surrounding the Abbey and Motor Museum. SURREY SCULPTURE SOCIETY, which does include artists from all across the Solent Life region as well, has an
• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
exhibition that will astound as well as often amuse. The Hon Ralph Montagu spoke to Solent Life as he welcomed guests to a special preview evening. “This is the second year that Beaulieu has hosted the Surrey Sculpture Society’s Summer Exhibition and it is a great opportunity for us to add interest to our grounds and gardens but it also offers a wonderful backdrop for the 53 artists participating in this year’s event.” All the pieces on display are for sale and the exhibition will run until 21st August and viewing is part of your entry to the worldfamous attraction. If you want to plan a little day trip that will take in a dozen or so different artists all at work in their own studios – then the HAMPSHIRE OPEN STUDIOS is the event for you. Running from 20th to 29th August, this annual event takes in some 160 plus venues throughout the county and all genres of art. For details of studios in areas across the county pick up a brochure from your local library or visit the website. l www.miwas.co.uk www.warsashartgroup.co.uk www.beaulieuevents.co.uk www.hampshireopenstudios.co.uk
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solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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historyview
the
warsash clock At midday on 2nd July the Mayor of Fareham and Councillor for Warsash, Councillor Trevor Cartwright MBE, pressed a remote control button and the village heard something that had not graced its streets for some twenty-one years: the chimes from its iconic clock tower. words & images • david rose-massom
T
he Warsash Clock Tower is as much a part of the village as its waterfront. Originally built over a century ago as a water tower with tanks that held up to 6,000 gallons, it had by the mid-1930s fallen into disrepair with the tanks rusting and the huge brass works of the chiming clock also ceasing to work. The clock was considered unique in its time because it struck Eight Bells (ship’s time). It was repaired in time for the coronation of May 1937 by the local police constable, but some twenty-one years ago it stopped working once again.
It took the nagging of a local interior designer and life-long resident of the area to get the tower returned to its former glory and the clock once again working and chiming. Kerry Woodhams explained to Solent Life, “I have been pushing my husband Simon for two years now. We have lived locally for all our lives and the tower had been on the market for years and was always the talk of the village. For me it was always about getting the clock working again. “I love Warsash and the people who live here and so I just began to nag Simon, kept chipping away at him,” Kerry continued. “I feel so proud now and it has all been worth the stress and the nagging.” Simon, a successful local businessman, saw it as a commercial opportunity at the same time as giving something back to the village. “I bought the premises and converted them especially for us to use as our offices, but I have told the Mayor that if he needs the meeting room for the odd special occasion we will make it available to him. We also want to show off what we have achieved. Kerry is the interior designer and she has come up with this spectacular interior; that is all down to her. “Kerry did nag about the tower,” Simon added with a broad grin. “But with her passion and my business head we are both very proud of what we have achieved with this end product, and the village has its clock back again!”
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The business side has already worked for Simon, who operates a super-yacht management company and a property development business from the village, as he explained. “It has become somewhat of a flagship for our companies and architects have already been coming to see what we have done following the £50,000 revamp of the clock tower. It has very much become a signpost for our business. But it is much more than that because we feel we have given something back to the village and community that we love. We have given them their clock back!” Councillor Trevor Cartwright has been a Councillor for Warsash for the past eleven years and he was awarded the MBE for services to the Defence Industry in 1996. He has lived in the area for the past twenty-one years with his wife Ruth and was elected as Mayor in May of this year and will be supporting local charities during his mayoral year: Cystic Fibrosis Trust which is close to his heart as he has a niece who suffers from this condition, Toe in the Water, competitive sailing for injured servicemen, and Warsash Wasps SFC, who are raising funds for an allweather pitch to benefit the community. “This is brilliant – it has brought back the life to the centre of the village again,” he told Solent Life, while enjoying the spectacular panoramic views from the clock tower. “We have a great community feel to our village and Simon and Kerry have given it a wonderful gift.”
• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
The day was not just about patting themselves on the back as a charity 3.5-mile fun run and walk was started by Portsmouth Football Club legend Linvoy Primus. His wife Trisha had done most of the organising for the day and she said, “It’s given back to the community the landmark that has been lost for many years and the charity run is to raise money for Cancer Research because everyone knows someone who is or who has been affected by it, and for the Warsash Wasps because they are refurbishing their ground, which is used by many people in the community.” The day’s activities brought the people of Warsash out in their droves and the tiny roundabout at the centre of the village was packed with runners, walkers, money collectors and well-wishers. Once the Mayor had activated the clock and its chimes, Linvoy started the runners and walkers with the blast of an air-horn and then everyone made their way to Strawberry Field to enjoy the Warsash Festival. The sun shone, the clock chimed and with amazing views down across Southampton Water around 4,000 people enjoyed the music and events on the green field on the edge of the village. A classic English village summer scene with the added joy of being on the waterfront, and behind it all once again the mellow tones of the clock in its tower rang out across the village as if calling the community together. l
Good well kept traditional ales New wine list Excellent real food served Sunday-Thursday 12-9pm Friday & Saturday 12-10pm
Telephone orders welcome Freshly cooked traditional Fish & Chips, served with a smile. 01489 581880 Most of our fish is boneless and skinless. 21 Shore Road, Warsash, SO31 9FS
Fish:
(booking advisable)
Black board specials changing regularly-also bar menu
☎ 01489 573088
Warsash Village, SO31 9HX
Cod • Haddock • Rock Salmon • Plaice • Scampi Cod Roe • Whitebait • Fish Cakes Also... Chicken • Sausages • Pies • Fritters Burgers & Baguettes. Open lunch Tuesday - Saturday 11.30-1.45pm • Evenings MonDAY - Saturday 5pm - 9pm www.t h ef r y in gf ish .co.u k
Welcome To The Frying Fish Mark and Claire opened their doors 3 months ago and are extremely pleased with the response they have received within the Warsash community. The Frying Fish is how chip shops should be, freshly cooked traditional fish and chips served with a smile. Most of their fish is boneless and skinless. On busy nights extra staff are on hand so there is no waiting around.
Kerry, Simon and the team would like to say a big thank-you to all those that helped organise the launch of the Clocktower and the charity fun run for Cancer Research and local football club Warsash Wasps. A good day was had by all and we look forward to a bigger and better Charity Run next year!
The Frying Fish prides itself on great food and great service, with a growing chain of shops around Hampshire. Standards are consistently high and they carry a 5 star food hygiene rating. Outside catering is also available for parties and social events. Menu is available on website www.thefryingfish.co.uk Please contact us for your specific requirements. Tel: 01489 581880
Rhiân
Fashion House
New Autum & Winter Frank Lyman Designs Now In!
Bensam Homes Limited Clock Tower, 2 shore rd, Warsash, SO31 9FQ
‘MEN WOT PAY’ Sunday 2nd October A special fashion cabaret at the Concord Club, 12 noon. For more details and to book tickets, call Sandy.
tel: 01489 572222 fax: 08714 310700 simon@bensamhomes.com www.bensamhomes.com
GENUINE HALF PRICE SALE STILL ON! On selected items Tues-Sat 10am-4pm
48 Warsash Road, Warsash 01489
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570560
David Newell Consultancy Ltd
Architectural Design Services Development Land Advice New Houses & Commercial Property Extensions & Conversions Planning Applications & Appeals
F.E.Chase & Son Ltd 8 Dibles Road Warsash Southampton SO31 9HZ
T 01489 576991 F 01489 579426 E info@fechase.co.uk W www.fechase.co.uk
Retained Clients always seeking building plots Phone & Fax • 01489 574994 Mobile • 07850 023252
W: www.dnc-ltd.com E: dnc-ltd@btconnect.com
1 0 S h o re R o a d • Wa r s a s h • S O 3 1 9 G Q
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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ANDREW M c Kellar 25 years a healer
Andrew McKellar has been healing for twenty five years, the thousands of testimonials at the sanctuary speak for themselves. As a young child Andrew knew he was born for a special purpose, and today he has become world renowned. People travel from all around the world to receive treatment from him. Cure after cure is seen at his sanctuary - Arthritis, Back Problems, Skin Disease, Frozen Shoulders, people deemed incurable only given weeks or months to live have been cured through Andrew’s healing gift. The list goes on and on. Medical science is backward when it comes to recognising spiritual healing. Andrew says “the results I see with the sick and suffering, the medical profession can only dream of achieving. Sooner or later they are going to have to accept Spiritual Healing as a forefront health treatment of the future”. One question often asked is are there many gifted healers in the UK, Andrew says. “Beware of anyone calling themselves a healer. Most healers in the UK are not born with the gift and really do little to help”. Sufferers: when seeking out a healer one must seek out a miracle
healer. Andrew says “there are about five in the UK”. Andrew has appeared on television in both the UK and USA. Here are just a few of the thousands of grateful patients treated by Andrew McKellar: Ken Gibson suffered years with back pain.“Chiropractor treatment was only temporary, I heard about Andrew, wow the man is amazing. My back pain vanished within a few visits, I was also awaiting a carpal tunnel operation. Andrew treated the condition and said I would not need the operation, and yes all pain and stiffness vanished. The operation was cancelled. He even cured a friend of mine of Chronic Bell Palsy”. Solent Life reader Louise Newton had five spinal operations, but still suffered agonising pain for nine years. On entering Andrew’s sanctuary barely able to walk, after a few treatments all pain had dispersed. “I am pain free living a normal life, I carried on with the treatment just to make sure. I cannot believe, all those operations and continued
suffering, I am so grateful for Andrew McKellars gift”. Andrew says, “even chiropractors have said to their patients, they wish they had my ability in treating spinal conditions”.
a true blessing to work way beyond the boundaries of medial science. Twenty five years a healer and many more years to go and many more thousands of cures to unfold.
Nicki Desky suffered with chronic M.E. “For seven years being only just able to walk, and with great difficulty seeing my future in a wheelchair I managed to reach Andrew’s sanctuary. He transformed my life - I’m back to work full time. This would not have been possible without Andrew’s gift, he also cured my mum of chronic graves disease. My mum thought her life was over, when her doctor said to go and see Andrew - she is now cured.” Maria White says “I crawled into Andrew’s sanctuary in agony after years of suffering. No doctor could help me - I walked out of the sanctuary upright and pain free. He is a miracle healer.”
Healer
Andrew Mckellar Andrew is now on
The Testimonials go on and on, in their thousands. Andrew says he has no interest in religion, only in helping people become happy and free of suffering. It’s
Open Invitation to our Readers We have been following the exploits of the intrepid crew of Koru and this month sees the pinnacle of their endeavours with the challenge of the hugely demanding Fastnet Race. Starting from Cowes on the 14th August, Koru and crew will depart the quayside at Royal Clarence Marina on Saturday 13th August. To Support the ladies in their adventure, we have arranged a quayside send-off party in conjunction with G's Wine Bar and Restaurant and Berkeley homes. You are invited to come down and meet the crew and maybe enjoy a Pimms and a bite from G's. We look forward to seeing you between 4pm and 7:30pm outside the Berkeley Homes Office in Royal Clarence Marina, Weevil Lane, Gosport.
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Why choose Nannies Tailor-Made?
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Looking to find a ‘perfect’ Nanny.... then Nannies Tailor-Made can help We are a small family run business; our professionally qualified and experienced team has a commanding track record of working with children and young babies.
find a nanny ‘tailor-made’ to your precise requirements. ● We provide a personal interviewing and screening service. ● We have qualified, experienced, CRB checked, full and part time nannies waiting to be matched. ● We only accept nannies who meet our very high standards and criteria. Contact Hannah McCarthy Register via our website W: www.nanniestailor-made.co.uk T: 07806-459951 E: hannah@nanniestailor-made.co.uk
Nannies Tailor-made Your children are the most precious thing in the world to you and finding the right nanny to fit perfectly with your family needs can be an incredibly difficult task, especially when you are busy working professionals. Nannies Tailor-made prides itself on the personal service it can offer. Our small family team has a wealth of experience in understanding the needs of parents, young children and their families through a long history of working within education and childcare. Trust is so important in today’s world. Nannies Tailor-made can take the worry away by helping families to select the ‘right’ nanny to meet their daily childcare needs.
Blackbrook House Blackbrook House was built around 1800, The Georgian house has been lived in by many families over the years, including the Le blanc’s and the Parker’s, it was also rumoured that Lady Hamilton once stayed here.It was Colonel Parker , who in the 1890’s built the Victorian wing onto the Georgian house, because he liked entertaining guests and needed more accommodation, and a bigger kitchen. In 1912 when motor cars first became popular , the family commissioned a brand new motor garage to be built which included a inspection pit. It still stands today in the grounds, along with a photographic dark room. It was in the 1920’s that the house and the whole estate was put on the market by Austen & Wyatt for £14,000. During the war Blackbrook House was commissioned by the Secretary of State for the war effort. It was in the late 1940”s that it became a Maternity Home, It became the birth place of many hundreds of babies.Many of these babies still live in the local area (coming soon: Blackbrook Babies Website). Also, after childbirth Mothers went there to convalesce. Unfortunately it closed as a Maternity Home in 2006. In 2009 the new owner, Mr Stephen Press. bought Blackbrook House from the NHS to convert to a luxury Care Home. Mr Press says” it has been a long road to restore the house to its former glory”. The house is now under way to being fully renovated. The grounds have also been restored, including new borders and newly planted trees, including two decease resistant English Elms. With new electrics, heating and plumbing and fire sprinklers, the house is once again, ready to face the next chapter in Blackbrook’s long and colourful history. PS if any one has any more history or pictures of Blackbrook please Phone 07974729008
For more information please do not hesitate to call
07974 729 008
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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OPEN DAYS 2011 Sunday 21st August 10am to 4pm
Railway Extravaganza
HNRGT 50th Anniversary Event
Thursday 8th September
Heritage Open Day – Free Admission
Sunday 18th September
Naughty Forties & Thrifty Fifties!
TLC For Horses
&
Solent Riding
Fully Licensed & Insured
Pony care & ride sessions including lessons in riding and pony care, for children of all ages. Shetland ponies for the under 5’s Fantastic membership available for adults. A superb junior membership from the age of 8.
Ladies mornings for the novice who would like a gentle introduction to riding.
Fabulous hacking for the experienced rider. also picturesque woodland riding
Pony care days during the holidays and Saturdays.
We have relocated to Spring Road, Sarisbury Green, Please call for a chat.
Tel: 01489 589214 or 07714 092120 W: www.tlcforhorses.co.uk
there’s an app for that... Why not check us out online?
Scan the QR code on your smart phone for a direct link to the Solent Life website! Keep up to date on the move, read this months features and enter our competition! Visit our website at: www.solentlife.co.uk
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
daysout
are we there yet? It’s summertime, the kids are home from school and the family wants a traditional day at the seaside, but the fun disappears when hour upon hour of your day is stuck in traffic as it crawls its way to the coast with even longer and slower queues on the way home. But there is no need to battle with the traffic jams when we have some superb seaside destinations right on our Solent Life doorstep. words & images • david rose-massom
A
day at the seaside means sun block, hopefully, swirly and quickly-melting ice-creams, screams of delight as the surf breaks over leaping children and a stress-free day for everyone. There is little to match a day at the seaside for fun and for memories in later life and we on the south coast are privileged to have some wonderful beaches and seascapes in some near-athand locations, even though they may not be sandy. We start our journey along Cliff Road and head from west to east along the coastline approaching Hill Head. An ice-cream van sits on the car park just off the shore with a snaking line of customers. Couples and lively children promenade along the footpath toward the charming little harbour, while families relax on the shingle shore and swimmers dive over the lazy breakers in the clear waters of the Solent. As well as the pretty harbour and the chance to feed the swans and ducks with left-over picnic there is also Titchfield Haven bird sanctuary, which also has a fine café. Along the shoreline and past the traditional beach huts is a great place to watch windsurfers and kitesurfers as they energetically fight the wind and tide to get the best out of their sport. There is also a swathe of green which is a great place to take the picnic and indulge in some ball games and kite flying and there is an enclosed playground for the tiny ones in the family. One of the most popular eateries along the coastline is the first port of call as the beach reaches Lee-on-the-Solent. The Shack and its friendly owner Angela serve great cheesy chips and piping hot beverages with tables
and chairs on the shingle where it is easy to keep an eye on your little ones as they play in the gentle surf. A little further along and we reach the centre of Lee-on-the-Solent, with its tearooms, cafés and ice-cream bars. And if you need to leave the beach, a few yards along Pier Road there are all sorts of specialist and independent shops. Along this strip of shops it is possible at one end to buy a stunt kite or remote control helicopter and at the other some sensational artisan sausages, as well as plenty else in between. Follow the coast road from Lee-on-theSolent down past Browndown Nature Reserve. As you pass the Bayside Cabin Café, which along with the rest of this coastline has amazing views across to the Isle of Wight. The creamy curve of Stokes Bay beach sweeps around in front of you. It is one of my favourite views along the Solent, where the water sparkles in the summer sun and with yachts and motor boats moored just a few yards from shore, it appears more Mediterranean than Gosport. At the other end of the attractive curving shoreline is the Pebbles café and a wellrespected wine bar and bistro. On the green across the road is a very popular crazy golf course that is enjoyed by families throughout the season. From Hill Head to Gilkicker Point, where the land comes to an end and close to where Portsmouth Harbour opens out into the Solent, there are paths to promenade along, green spaces to play on, clean shingle shores with room to spread out on and sparkling waters to swim in. From Gilkicker the views also spread across to Southsea. Southsea is the classic English seaside
resort – beachside cafés, a funfair, the Blue Reef Aquarium, the vast green expanses of Southsea Common with its stunning flower gardens and even, if your family loves museums, the wonderful D-Day Museum as well as the small but fun Natural History Museum. Southsea has an historic castle, built and designed by Henry VIII, and a clean beach that spreads down to the traditional pier and beyond. It has modern amenities yet remains a traditional English seaside resort. And, should the weather turn inclement or the family tires of the seaside, over the Common and a few yards beyond there are some wonderful streets of independent and national traders and shops. Wander the precinct and discover the secrets of Marmion Road or Albert Road or even visit the iconic Kings Theatre for a rainy day matinée. For a special treat at the far end of the beach and past the pier try the pitch and putt course and the wonderful 10th Hole café, with some very fattening but amazing home-made cakes, or how about the nearby canoe lake for a leisurely boat, or ‘swan’, ride? This summer don’t get caught in traffic queues, don’t suffer the cries of ‘Are we there yet?’ when the car in front has not moved for at least half an hour. Get down to our beautiful local beaches and check out the many family entertainments, local traders, craftspeople, art galleries and cafés. In fact, go local for all your family summer fun, especially with the price of petrol today. You will get great beaches, clean seas and some very pleasant surprises l.
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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businessview
futurepath
childcare What have a local children’s nursery and ex-Formula 1 Grand Prix driver Derek Warwick got in common? Solent Life visited the launch of one of the region’s newest business ventures to find out.
Jacky explained that almost half their setup costs went on toys and play equipment. “The children have resources all around them and the access and movement from area to area just flows, such as the craft area into the cosy areas where they have nurturing time with the staff. It is important words • david rose-massom that we have a home-from-home feel even though we are in a nursery environment. irst time we met I could see themselves with Peter often working 16“For me as a parent, I know the standard of Jacky was driven,” Derek hour days to complete it in the six-week care I wanted for my own children, so I have Warwick explained. “You window they had set themselves. The results a bench mark for that quality of care here,” see bits of yourself in other are there for anyone to see. It is a bright, she continued. “I can also support parents people; you see the passion colourful, clean and safe environment where when they want to talk about how they in them.” He was speaking any parent will be happy to leave their feel when it comes to leaving their young of Jacky Barnett, who along with husband offspring. children here and that it is okay for them to Peter had just formally opened their own After the stress of opening day and within go to work. Some parents feel extreme guilt nursery after some 25 years in the business minutes of getting their first child to care at first. successfully working for other people. for, Jacky took the time to sit down with “The children have more opportunities for The tour of the new Park Gate facilities Solent Life and explain what drives her play and development in the nursery and for their fledgling company Futurepath and Peter forward. “Day to day, minute to the parents are always a part of what we Childcare gave just a small indication of the minute I am checking that we are doing do with their children. Although space effort and commitment the pair had put into things correctly and we make sure we would allow for more, we registered for a this venture – and the link with one of F1’s allow staff to share our vision of excellence,” maximum number of 50 children here, just greats? He is their landlord, but more than she said. enough for us to ensure quality childcare, that he feels he has become a partner in “Obviously we spend a great deal of time meaning we can all work closely and safely what they are trying to achieve. with our staff and we need quality people with the children while also getting to know “I want them to succeed because when you around us who then become a valuable them individually. If you like, we are the meet people like Jacky and Peter you end part of the team,” Jacky continued. “We support mechanism, part of the extended up signing up for the ethos of what they are want people who are keen to train and family.” Governing body Ofsted was highly doing,” Derek continued. “Jacky has already learn more about childcare and all the new pleased with Futurepath Childcare and proved her worth and been a great success developments that brings. I have been in what Jacky and Peter had set up, but now in the business and getting everything right the business for 25 years and I still enjoy they are open they will be checked again in what she does means that with such care going on courses and learning new things.” sometime in the next six months. “We are to detail she has taken five years just to find Both she and husband Peter, who hails inspected for welfare as well as the Early the right premises. from an engineering background, are Years Foundation Stage and we have to “My building became available and I am proud of what they have achieved with the ensure we meet the minimum standard for very grateful to the Council for allowing the building and its facilities. “Everything here nursery care, but if we even get a ‘good’ change of use. Jacky and Peter are very is open-plan with large windows; not only rating I will feel we have done badly. We hard-working, focused, down to earth and does this make it a bright and clean area for strive for ‘outstanding’ in every area, and determined. I am not really a landlord, I am the children to be in but it also makes it a with my experience anything less than that just a property developer, but as such this very safe and controllable environment for will just not be good enough!” l is the best possible start I could give them. I everybody. am just so impressed with what they have “We also want the children to see outside, achieved already.” Go to www.fpchildcare.co.uk for more and we have a lovely garden area for them Part of that achievement was the fitting details of the nursery and images of the to play in. For that reason being on the out of the ex-office premises into a safe, facilities, as well as prices and fees, or ground floor was an important criterion phone 01489 577778. comfortable and well-suited area for the when inspecting premises so that the new nursery. They carried out all the work children have easy access to the garden.”
F
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Birth to 5 years Open at 7.30am and closes 6.00pm l F reshly prepared meals to suit all dietary needs l A ll meals, nappies and wetwipes are included l Fingerprint security l Higher ratio staff to children l Close to M27 junction 9 and Swanwick train station l Warm, friendly environment l Stimulating outdoor play areas for your child to play, learn and have fun
Come and Visit our Nursery in Park Gate
NOW OPEN
Play to learn Register online at www.fpchildcare.co.uk or telephone us on 01489 577778
www.fpchildcare.co.uk
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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restaurantreview
the
bold forester The country has come to town. The Bold Forester is a pub that should be hidden away down some remote country lane and known only to a few farmhands and their friends. But this is a local hostelry with bright and colourful hanging baskets, a wagon overflowing with flowers, country gardens front and back, as well as a wonderful rustic interior. words & images • david rose-massom
I
nside the surroundings are comfortable with heavy chairs and even heftier tables; from the ceiling hang dried hops and around the walls are knickknacks and images that reflect the regional farming story and strawberry history. The menu is as robust as the pub and has a real outdoor feel to it. From the specials board deep-fried crispy Brie caught my eye, and just below that a main course of beef olives: escalope of beef, filled with pork and horseradish stuffing, wrapped in smoky bacon and served in a mushroom and red wine sauce. I had chosen my meal without even opening the regular menu which I later discovered is filled with delicious dishes from sticky ribs to pan-fried calves’ liver. Whilst browsing that menu to see what I could
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
have had, the rustic and traditional charm of both the surroundings and menu provoked thoughts that perhaps I had parked a tractor outside and stepped into the bar straight from a day in the fields, instead of a leisurely drive through to Sarisbury Green. The Bold Forester is a family pub and through the open window next to my table and from the garden beyond came the gentle sounds of children having fun and the murmur of the parents relaxed and knowing the children were in a safe and comfortable environment. A row of tables pulled together played host to several families all enjoying a summer’s evening and some great food; along the table was everything from pizza to slabs of sticky-looking barbecue ribs. It highlighted the variety of customers from young couples out for an evening meal to whole families celebrating something special.
As if to make the point, on another table a granddad was joined by family members who all brought gifts and cards to celebrate his birthday. With any establishment it is the fine detail that makes the difference and one only has to look around the gardens at the hanging baskets and flower beds to realise a great deal of effort is spent by all concerned to make the Bold Forester somewhere special to visit. Just driving past, the front is impossible to miss with the floral display on offer throughout the summer – that said, even in the more inclement months the frontage still looks attractive and inviting. The starter of crispy-coated deep-fried Brie arrived, looking good enough to eat! Most salad garnishes are delicate little displays but this was a rustic-looking dish with curves of coloured pepper, deep-green salad leaves and thin scimitars of sweet red onion, all coated in a clean-tasting dressing. The Brie had a real crunch from the coating and a creamy smooth, soft cheese inside and the delicate flavour of the Brie was lifted by one of the best tasting and aromatic onion chutneys it has been my pleasure to indulge in. The whole dish was a delicious and intense confection of tastes and textures. Between courses I pondered whether the main course was just a little too much in the way of ingredients and if it would
It was a robust meal served in country surroundings and mentally I could almost hear the combine harvesters working in imaginary fields…
offer the blend of flavours its description had advertised. While considering the dish I gazed through the window to the magnificent giant willow with its dangling foliage and the scarlet flowers that broke up the green vista. Being totally honest, a good review of the Bold Forester was not going to be difficult as it is already a venue I have used for lunches from time to time, and there has never been a disappointment in the food or service. In fact, the service is always friendly, efficient and warm. With the main course placed on the table, the aroma from the rich sauce wafted toward me and induced an instant desire to get stuck in. The broccoli was just a touch overdone, but the new potatoes and the green beans were cooked as they should be, hot and slightly crisp. The consistency of the sauce was also just right, a little thick and slightly sticky, perfect, and the beef olives – well, I need not have pondered. Tender beef offers first texture, then the smoky flavour of the bacon slips through followed by the softness of the pork and horseradish stuffing. At first there seemed to be a lack of bite from the horseradish but as the pork flavour eased so that creamy bite came through. The beef olives, although a complex production, were delicious and like the script of a good play each part offered its own dialogue in the drama of the meal.
It was a full-bodied meal served in country surroundings and mentally I could almost hear the combine harvesters working in imaginary fields; strange that it was just a pub in Sarisbury Green, midway between Fareham and Southampton. With dessert the spotted dick and custard was tempting, as was the sticky toffee pudding, but after the heavy main course there was a need for something just a little more delicate. The Belgian chocolate cheesecake with ice-cream seemed to fit the bill and the decision was applauded as sensible by my waitress. Do I need to describe the rich smooth chocolatey flavour, or the headiness of the drizzle of chocolate sauce? Should I mention the refreshing chill of the slightly coarse and delicious ice-cream? Or would it suffice to say that it was the right decision and if the waitress should recommend the Belgian chocolate cheesecake just nod yes? The Bold Forester is a wonderful public house and restaurant and I think I have already mentioned a touch of the country in the town. It is an escape as, when the car is parked and you take your seat in one of the gardens or in the bar, it is very easy to forget where you are. The food, like the surroundings, is rustic and charming. All that was left as the sun began to set over the horizon on that summer evening was to remember where I had parked my tractor… l
THE BOLD FORESTER Bridge Road, Sarisbury Green Telephone 01489 576400 Open seven days a week, weekday lunchtimes for food 12.00 noon till 2.30pm and from 6.00pm till 9.30pm evenings. Food served all day Saturdays and Sundays. Three-course meals without drinks are great value at around £18 to £25 a head. www.theboldforester.co.uk
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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theinterview
the
interview Jimmy Chestnutt might just be the most important person supporting local business that you’ve never heard of. As Chief Executive of the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce he has probably one of the most influential posts in the region, so if you’re aspiring to start up your own business or are lucky enough to have one already this interview has something for you.
H
words • roy moss
owever, if you don’t have your own business keep reading, because chances are the company you work for is a member of this vital organization. If it is not you should ask why. Solent Life visited the Chief Executive at the Chamber’s offices in Bugle Street, Southampton, the hub of interbusiness relations, to chat about the role of the organization in our region, what it means to be a member and how this could be the difference between success and failure for your enterprise. Members of the Chamber can benefit from many services and privileges, which Jimmy explained. “Members find solidarity in talking to other members, in finding that they are not alone; we’re all part of the same club and we’re friends,” he said. “It’s a network of support and relationships, and that mutual support is very important. There are young people starting up their own businesses, but don’t yet have the business wisdom. I have people, mentors, who can sit down with them and help.” He went on to explain the importance of training provided by the Chamber. “We have a training programme, we carry out mentoring and we put people in touch with people through networking. We have a programme for companies that are just starting out and we can give them some
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banking support, human resource support as well as legal support. Members can even phone free support advice lines and, of course, the Chamber can point you in the direction of other members that can help you out. “It really is an organization run by the members, for the members, with a shared common goal which is to make their businesses succeed, to grow a community of companies which integrate and find customers and form relationships. Networking is just one of the many benefits and for some people that’s all they want; they join the Chamber to network.” But, as Jimmy explained, the Chamber is so much more than that. “It’s the lobbying power. I have a small team who do nothing else but research and produce documents for policy boards to consider so we can advise, cajole and complain to Government – and we do.” Jimmy added that there is no power as such with the Chamber, but because of the strength of the organisation they have a voice, and a strong one. “We are part of a national network of Chambers; in fact, that is an international network, but if there is a problem we can guarantee to put it in front of a minister. We don’t always get the result we want but at least we know we’ve been listened to. We have relationships with Chambers all over the world, which is beneficial to our members that do
• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
international trade. Members have a voice that potentially reaches the most important people.” We asked whether it’s fair that some people see the Chamber as possibly old-fashioned and if they’ve had to move with the times. “There’s something solid about the Chambers and their traditions, but on the other hand if you don’t adapt you die; we use Twitter, for example, and all the social media. Because we are such a large representative audience and because our members are active, you’re not allowed to remain static. I like to think we constantly reinvent ourselves. We have a large ethnic community in Southampton and so we have a strong Asian network, which is designed to try and get good working relationships within the whole business community, that is also proving extremely successful. The simple fact is the members are the dynamism of the Chamber – they are the Chamber. I’m not the Chamber; I work with a team and we are constantly trying to do better than we did the previous year.” One of the hot topics governing politics, business and our general lives is that of the environment, and Jimmy is leading an initiative, a low carbon group, focusing on making our businesses greener. “Southampton is very good at this,” explained Jimmy. “We have the district heating system which we’ve had for years.” This is the
A huge concern in many communities in the Solent Life area is the invasion of the big chain supermarkets into small towns and villages. geothermal plant which supplies heating to many of the businesses in Southampton, with its power plant in the heart of West Quay. “It’s very green and environmentally friendly. In the university we have a centre of excellence in wave and tidal power research as well as the potential for a wind farm off the Dorset coast. The aim, of course, is not just to put Southampton on the map as a low carbon city of excellence but through that mechanism get inward investment and job creation. This is typical of the way the Chamber helps the local community to encourage businesses into the area, and one of the region’s strong selling points is that Southampton and the surrounding areas are, and continue to be, aware of the environment. But it’s more than just awareness, it’s acting on ideas, which Southampton does very well, from research and investing in these initiatives.” And Jimmy noted, “If the wind farm gets the go-ahead there will be a need for many supporting industries and we want them to come here to Southampton rather than go somewhere else.” What businesses typically join the Chamber? “We have some of the largest companies in Hampshire as members and some one-man bands. The bulk of these are medium-sized companies with up to 200 employees, but it’s the full spectrum. One of the reasons the larger companies join is
to give something back to the community they operate in. They provide directors, people on the committees and resources, without which, Chambers across the country would suffer.” A huge concern in many communities in the Solent Life area is the invasion of the big chain supermarkets into small towns and villages. Did the Chamber have a conflict of interests if both the larger stores and independent shops which are in danger were members? “Any Chamber member will regret the dumbing-down of our high streets. We still want to see the quirky individual shops, but on the other hand we all shop in the supermarkets. So the Chamber has the same quandary as the individual on the street,” Jimmy continued, showing that he has a great passion for businesses large and small as well as a real desire and hunger for all his members to succeed. Community is important to him and continuing to build on that is one of his goals. “The trick is to keep local focus!” he added. Another issue we wanted to bring up with Jimmy was the worry of a lot of university graduates having nowhere to go once they leave university and whether this was something the Chamber could influence or change. “We’re aware of it, and it is a country-wide problem. We work with the universities in trying to find work for the students. We need to make Southampton
the best place for graduates and somewhere where they want to work so that is what we’re trying to do.” Finally we asked Jimmy Chestnutt how he would best sell the Chamber of Commerce to local businesses who are potentially future members and want to be a part of this support network. “Our sole purpose in being is to help our members grow their businesses and support them while they are in business. We can be as flexible as we need to be to achieve that, and at some stage every business needs just a little bit of help. The Chamber network UK-wide is, I think, an incredible organization. We are run by business, for business.” The Chief Executive’s energy and enthusiasm for the work the Chamber carries out shows with every word spoken; he happily admits to being just a small part of the team and from the board members down they are there for the members. As he puts it, “I’m entirely at the beck and call of my members and so is the board.” l Solent Life thanks Jimmy Chestnutt for taking the time to talk to us. If you are interested in the Chamber of Commerce and want to find out more please visit their website… www.hampshirechamber.co.uk
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST • JUNE 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
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Viking Cars Tel 023 8040 6633 Fax 023 8040 2519
This is the number to have in your phone. We are a local family run business based at Lowford, Bursledon The drivers are friendly and reliable. We offer a range of vehicles from 4 – 8 seaters including minibus for that extra luggage. Available for local runs or the longer runs to the Airport/ports in fact anywhere a car can go we will take you at a reasonable price. Give us a try call now for a quote or visit
www.vikingcars.co.uk
Celebrating 90 years EN GARD ery machianlmost worth
£500
Your chance to enter and win garden equipment. All you have to do is answer three simple questions (see below for details) for your chance to win one of three fantastic prices!
1st PRIZE Wolf CPPE34E compact plus power edition 34E Mower, (this is an electric mower worth £229.00). With 5 year manufacturer warrenty.
2nd PRIZE Wolf HSA45V (Battery powered Hedge Trimmer worth £219)
3rd PRIZE £50 Voucher for Wolf tools to be chosen from our showroom stock.
All you have to do is answer the following questions. (1) What station is Carter's of Swanwick located opposite? (2) Do Carters of Swanwick recycle your old machine? (3) Carters of Swanwick offer Honda, Mountfield and Stihl machines, can you name another brand? Do you intend to purchase any garden machinery in the near future? If you could answer yes or no when submitting your answers to the competition we would be very grateful. To enter, email competitions@solentlife.co.uk quoting ‘Carters of Swanwick’, with your name, address and telephone/mobile number and answer! Alternatively post your entry to SolentLife, Webb House, 20 Bridge Road, Park Gate, Hampshire, SO31 7GE. Closing date 31.08.11 “Working with Hampshire Chamber of Commerce to a mutually beneficial future”
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
www.cartersofswanwick.co.uk
businessview
90
years of excellence
The year was 1921 and the first car tax discs were introduced, the world’s largest airship, the R38, made its maiden flight – exploding a few weeks later – and Shackleton set sail on his last expedition to Antarctica. The same year the Carter brothers converted a blacksmith’s shop in Swanwick into a car and machinery repair centre; now Carters of Swanwick are celebrating 90 years of serving the local community. words • janet grimm
S
wanwick at that time was considered a district covering a large part of the famous strawberry-growing area from Botley through to Titchfield and down to Swanwick Wood where the old Bursledon Brickworks were located near the Hamble River. The business then was servicing and repairing horticultural and agricultural machines such as tractors and rotavators. Motor cars, motorcycles and farm machinery were also serviced and catered for. Following the Carters brothers a Mr Eric Farmer then owned the company for many years, and indeed the father of the present owner David, Stan Jacobs, joined the company as a sales director in 1964 and was an employee of the late Mr Farmer. The Jacobs family have owned the business since 1975. At the height of the business when they sold and repaired cars as well as garden machinery the company employed sixty local people, making them an important part of the local community. Eventually the business divided and the
garden machinery part moved to its current location opposite Swanwick Railway Station in 2004. They have always prided themselves on their grasp of modern technology and efficiency. David Jacobs told Solent Life, “We specialise in most types of domestic and commercial garden machinery, lawn mowers and ground care equipment and we do the whole job: advice, demonstrations, sales, servicing, warranty, repairs, spare parts, accessories and a proper back-up to our sales and servicing. We are also very proud of our parts department which sends parts all over the UK and we are main dealers for many of the top leading makers.” As a long-established business they also pride themselves in dealing with like businesses. One of their suppliers, Cramer, has been in business for 175 years. Carters also get involved in many promotions such as that with supplier Stihl who had a Land Rover as a prize, and in one such promotion one of Carters’ own customers won a brand new Honda car. Continued on next page…
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
…27
businessview
The youngest employee is Matthew, a trainee mechanic who aged just 19 joined the company two months ago. Another staff member James joined the company as a Saturday boy twelve years ago at the age of fifteen. He told us, “I cannot imagine and never want to work anywhere else. I am so proud to be here and be part of such a well-rounded company; I just cannot imagine having another job. I have no idea what it is like to work anywhere else, but I don’t need to know either!” All the team at Carters believe they help people on their journey to purchase their
gardening equipment while extending every courtesy to their customers. They compete directly with the superstores on price and offer ‘try before you buy’ on the larger machine purchases to ensure the customer gets the right product for their needs. That customer base extends from little old ladies spending just £30 to machinery valued at more than £27,000, suitable for park keepers and local authorities or just those with a very large lawn! They have an on-line presence which means you can buy 24 hours a day and you can even pop into the Swanwick showroom and browse the Internet there while enjoying a
complimentary fresh cup of coffee. If you are able to find a genuinely cheaper price on-line then Carters will match it. For 90 years Carters has provided Swanwick with jobs for local people and a friendly service for all their customers, whether that is on the Internet or by walking through the door of their long-established Swanwick business. We at Solent Life wish all at Carters continued success as they enter the decade leading to their centenary and we look forward to joining them in their celebrations in 2021. l
Kubota wish Carters of Swanwick Happy 90th Birthday and look forward to continuing our great partnership. l
GR1600. Economical, effortless performance Powerful, stylish and easy to operate, the diesel GR1600 ride-on, cut and collect mower delivers outstanding fuel economy and reliability. Features include the Kubota ETVCS diesel engine, shaft driven HST transmission and gas assisted deck lift with easy reach dial adjustment. The GR1600 also includes the Kubota Glide cut direct collection system and easy dump grass collector. l l l l l l l
Highly economic ETVCS diesel engine 13.5 HP Easy dump, large capacity grass collector HST transmission Gas assisted mower deck lift One dial cut-height adjustment (1-4") Low maintenance and servicing costs
N O W AVA I L A B L E AT … Carters of Swanwick Tel: 01489 575242 Duncan Road, Swanwick Fax: 01489 579759 Nr Southampton, SO31 1BD www.cartersofswanwick.co.uk
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Mountfield and Stiga
would like to congratulate Carters of Swanwick on 90 years of supplying high quality garden machinery.
www.mountfieldlawnmowers.co.uk
Honda (UK) wish Carters of Swanwick Happy 90th Birthday and look forward to continuing our great partnership.
www.stigalawnmowers.co.uk
GGP UK Limited Unit 8, Bluewater Estate,Bell Close, Plympton Plymouth PL7 4JH
FREE BONUS KIT WITH SELECTED STIHL HEDGE TRIMMERS*
STIHL MS181 STIHL FS40 VIKING GE250
Our equipment is powered by battery, petrol or electricity. Unfortunately we can’t make the sun shine. Also STIHL toy chainsaw – just like Dad’s.
STIHL would like
to congratulate Carters of Swanwick on 90 years of supplying high quality garden machinery.
*Terms and conditions apply.
For full sales and service of STIHL & VIKING products: Carters of Swanwick Duncan Road, Swanwick Nr Southampton, SO31 1BD
Tel 01489 575242 Fax 01489 579759 www.cartersofswanwick.co.uk
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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travelfeature
NEW YORK CITYand the laid-back delights of
Long Island
Manhattan, with its instantly recognizable skyline, helps make New York a one-of-a-kind destination; whether it’s your first or fiftieth visit there is always something new to see and do in the city that never sleeps.
G
etting around in New York City could not be easier and the best way is on foot. The avenues run roughly north and south, except at the very tips of the island, and the streets east and west, so getting lost is virtually impossible! However, if your feet really cannot take any more then hop on and off the double-decker city sights buses which stop at various points of interest all over Manhattan, Times Square, Macy’s, Empire State Building, Chinatown, Wall Street, Central Park – the list is endless. New York is made up of five boroughs: Manhattan, Staten Island, The Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens, and it is through
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the borough of Queens that you leave the skyscrapers and hustle and bustle of the city behind as the scenery changes to magnificent landscaping, rolling hills and vineyards, and the mansions of The Hamptons, home to the rich and famous! At 118 miles long and up to 20 miles wide hire car is the easiest way to see most of what Long Island has to offer. Pick up your car in New York and take the Long Island Expressway to the North Shore, travelling into the Gold Coast area immortalised in F Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby. The area is so called because of the affluent families who chose to build their mansions here, many of which are now open for the public to have a glimpse of how the other half lived! As you head east towards the North Fork you can stock up on some bargains at Tanger in Riverhead, Long Island’s largest factory outlet featuring over 165 designer shops; open 363 days a year it is a bargain hunter’s paradise. What better way to relax, after shopping till you drop, than a spot of wine tasting? There are over 60 vineyards on Long Island, more than 30 of which are open to visitors. Sample the latest awardwinning vintage and enjoy lunch at one of the fabulous local restaurants. Paumonok Vineyards produce an outstanding wine that
• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
is included in the 1001 Wines to Taste Before You Die book. Take the car ferry between the North and South Fork; with hourly services from Greenport and Sag Harbor, Southampton, Bridgehampton and East Hampton are just a few of the charming and historic villages waiting to be discovered, chic and always with the possibility of spotting a celebrity. Roam around to experience some of that old-time charm that still exists in this area. It is well worth a drive to the end of Long Island and Montauk Point, home to Long Island’s oldest lighthouse where you can climb the 137 steps to the top. Of all the attractions spending a day at the beach is top of the list. Long Island beaches are renowned for their fine white sand, spectacular waves and beautiful sunsets and the South Shore is the best place to experience them, with its miles of hiking trails and boardwalks. It is worth taking a ferry trip across to Fire Island. Virtually traffic-free, it is a tranquil wilderness of sand dunes, forests and wildlife. With so much to see and do it makes sense to speak to Amity World Travel, the tailormade specialist. With a wealth of personal experience they can help you to decide how to make the most of your time in and around the Big Apple. l
Are you planning a major holiday? Whatever your reason for planning a trip of any kind, you want to be sure that the arrangements are just right and that you have the holiday of your dreams. One way to be certain of this is make Amity World Travel your first port of call in order to discuss your plans. Here, you can be sure that you will be offered expert advice and assistance in putting together your perfect holiday. Amity World Travel has been trading since 1970 and has been based at its current location in Segensworth since 1994. This unusual location for a travel agency offers a “non shop” setting where clients are welcome to drop in (often by appointment), and meet with a consultant who can take as much time as is needed to discuss your plans over a coffee, suggest a variety of options and make the necessary arrangements in quiet and relaxed surroundings. As an independently owned, ABTA and ATOL accredited company, Amity is able tailor the widest choice of travel options match your own personal needs. Through years of experience they have built direct
relationships with ground handlers and hoteliers around the world, and they may be able to offer unique experiences that you just won’t find in a mass-market brochure. Amity World Travel blends old fashioned qualities of customer service, choice and impartiality with modern day booking technology to help give them the edge over their competition. As the leisure travel division of one of the most successful Business Travel Management Companies in the south of England, their consultants use the most up to date reservation technology, and have millions of “contract” rates for worldwide flights, hotels and car rental. Put this together with the 60+ years of travel experience that Jeff, Sue and Lisa have between them, and you have a winning formula that sees clients returning year after year to put their trust in travel arrangements planned and booked at Amity World Travel. Telephone: 01489 579975
Contact us for expert advice and a wide range of New York holiday options
Your Local Travel Experts As members of Advantage, the UK’s leading consortium of independent travel agents, we have the widest choice of tour operators from which to choose your dream holiday. Our expert consultants can also piece together the elements of your dream trip into a tailor-made holiday while you relax, safe in the knowledge that your arrangements are fully bonded.
Telephone: 01489 579975
Email: holidays@amitytravel.co.uk
Web: www.amitytravel.co.uk
4 Manor Court, Barnes Wallis Road, Segensworth East, Fareham, PO15 5TH solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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photocomp
timed exposure With digital cameras it is very easy to rush your shot; you have dozens, if not hundreds, of images within the capability of your camera’s memory and they cost you nothing to produce. There is no cost of film or developing and printing and so images, once you have the camera, are free. words • david rose-massom
M
entally the good photographer must forget this part of digital photography; when planning your shots just imagine that you have only the 36 shots that would have been available in the days of 35mm film. Take your time; plan your shot and check your peripheral vision. The clutter around the edges of a frame can spoil an otherwise cracking landscape. Then, and only then, when you have the image that was in your mind in the eyepiece of the camera, fire the shutter button. Then use those extra shots within your camera to experiment; change the aperture setting which in turn will alter your depth of field and the lighting of your scene. Then before taking the next shot, like a professional golfer getting ready to take his next shot, go through your set-up procedure all over again. Not only will your photography improve if you slow down, but your enjoyment of the process will increase; it becomes a far more satisfying experience. Then when the images are downloaded your post-production time and work decreases because the shot you wanted is in the camera and not in programmes such as Photoshop. l
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
this months winner... Paul Stone (top) runner up... Grace McSweeny
Please keep the entries coming for our London Camera Exchange sponsored Calendar Competition. Despite the difficulties we have had in picking winners we are thoroughly enjoying the process and looking through your images. Our thanks to the Fareham branch of LCE for their continued support. Also don’t forget we are looking for your autumn and winter shots to be emailed to us now so we can begin putting our 2012 calendar together. Entries should be emailed as high resolution JPEG versions to calendarcompetition@solentlife.co.uk.
PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION SPONSORSHIP Our Calendar competition is kindly sponsored by the LONDON CAMERA EXCHANGE FAREHAM & NIKON, 135 West Street, Fareham. T: 01329 236441. E: fareham@icegroup.co.uk
TITCHFIELD FESTIVAL THEATRE ARE DELIGHTED TO BE TAKING PART IN THE RSC OPEN STAGES EVENT
A sensitive, funny, occasionally disturbing, story of one day in the life of the town. All life is here and with a cast of over 60 very distinctive characters Dylan Thomas paints affectionate portraits of the childhood seaside people he knew so well. INCLUDES A FISH AND CHIP SUPPER AT THE END OF THE SHOW
View our programme of shows through to Christmas 2011 at www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com Support your local arts centre.
PERFORMANCES AT ST MARGARETS ARTS ST MARGARETS LANE, TITCHFIELD PO14 4BG. ALL SHOWS START AT 7.30PM. MONDAY TO THURSDAY – £9. FRIDAY & SATURDAY – £11. DISCOUNTS: £1 OFF FOR STUDENTS, SENIORS, UNEMPLOYED, PARTIES 4+ £1 PER TICKET DISCOUNT. BOOK 2 SHOWS OR MORE £1 PER TICKET DISCOUNT. SPECIAL RATES FOR SCHOOLS AND PARTIES OF 10+.
M
ON
>31st AUGUST – 10th SEPTEMBER
SUM
If music be the food of love… A comedy about appearance and perception and the path to true love.
ANNIVE TH
ARY RS
>10th – 20th AUGUST
> U NDER MILK WOOD
TEN
> T WELFTH NIGHT
ER SEAS
BOX OFFICE 01329 556156 OR AT www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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health&beauty
Cosmetic Surgery Partners in Hampshire If you have ever considered having cosmetic (plastic) surgery you may feel there is a bewildering choice of providers when it comes to finding a clinic that you feel comfortable with and feel safe in their hands. In addition, many are large companies and with such important decisions to make, you want to ensure that you receive a personal service. Recognising this, Dr Xavier of Southampton’s national-award-winning cosmetic medical clinic ‘Dr Xavier G. Medi-Spa’ has teamed up with experienced GMCspecialist registered cosmetic surgeon Mr Nick Percival (pictured below) to offer a more local and friendly solution. Mr Nick Percival FRCS of ‘Cosmetic Surgery Partners’ provides a wide range of cosmetic surgery options with the added convenience of having your consultation at Dr Xavier’s clinic in central Southampton and the surgery is performed at a private hospital in Hampshire. Mr Percival has an established reputation. ‘Tatler’ magazine referred to him as “one of the most foremost cosmetic surgeons in the UK”. Mr Percival has also appeared on TV shows such as “Extreme Makeover”, “Make Me Perfect”, “Cosmetic Surgery School” and others. He is a member of professional associations such as BAAPS, BAPRAS and ISAPS. Surgery includes a range of options for the face and body, including; face lifts, upper and lower eyelid and brow lift surgery, neck lift, nose surgery (rhinoplasty), chin surgery, fractional CO2 laser surgery for wrinkles, fat injections, breast augmentation, breast uplift, breast reduction surgery, tummy tuck and more. This is in addition to the wide range of non-surgical treatments offered by Dr Xavier such as; wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, collagen stimulation, skin peels, dermaroller, medical skincare as well as Alizonne medical weight loss therapy and laser hair removal. Dr Xavier, owner of Xavier G. Medi-Spa clinic explains; “Working with Mr Percival means that patients have a greater choice of options and I am pleased to welcome such an experienced and highly regarded surgeon to my clinic.” For more information about surgery or to book a consultation with Mr Percival visit www.xavier-g.com or www.cosmeticsurgery partners.co.uk. Alternately, call Dr Xavier’s clinic on 02380 637 638 or Mr Percival’s clinic at 0207 486 6778 to book a consultation or request an information pack. 34…
• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Weight Loss Diary Update So I’ve reached the end of my journey, my virtual gastric band by hypnotherapy surgery has been carried out – or perhaps my journey to the body that matches the one in the mirror in my mind has just begun? James at the Hampshire Hypnotherapy Centre performed the surgery to the background sounds of lapping waves which were then replaced by the gentle clattering of medical instruments and soft chatter of ‘theatre nurses’ Although I was deeply relaxed it all felt very real. I ‘awoke’ from my surgery feeling refreshed and relaxed, certainly different from the way I would have felt if I had elected to have a surgical gastric band. After receiving some further guidelines from Sue, to cope with my smaller stomach I left less than an hour after I had arrived ready to get on with my life as a slimmer, fitter, healthier person. Life is still throwing the odd sling and arrow of outrageous fortune but I know that Chocolate or any food is not in fact the solution. Every day I listen to my post surgery CD and I look forward to seeing Sue and James for my maintenance appointment very soon.
Ja n et x
I will show you the before and after pictures very soon and thanks to Sue and James I am now confident enough to do so. Watch this space.
Mobile Nail Technician
☎ ☎
More than just a dental practice
✔ Shellac Manicure ✔ Acrylic Enhancements in Natural, Colour or Glitter ✔ Loyalty Card Scheme available - After five appointments, receive 20% off your sixth appointment ✔ Natural Nail Care using OPI ✔ G ift Vouchers
07771 877121 01489 885801
✔ F lexible appointments times available ✔ Check out my New Website for more deals ✔ FREE Solar Oil with New Sets of Enhancements ✔ Shellac Rockstar fingers & toes ✔ Minx Fingers & Toes ✔ Paypal available
Email: nail-ific@hotmail.co.uk • Website: www.nail-ific.co.uk
Combine dental excellence with a warm, friendly environment and you have the ingredients for a great family dental practice. Put us to the test and place your dental wellbeing in the care of our dedicated team.
Call us now on 01489 581158 l Preventive dental care for the whole family l Anxious patients particularly welcome l Fine line reduction l Cosmetic treatments & whitening l Dental implants l Orthodontics (teeth straightening)
Look out for the green and white picket fence. 63 Southampton Road, Park Gate, Southampton, Hampshire SO31 6AH
T: 01489 581158 | F: 01489 582220 | E: info@titchfielddental.co.uk
www.titchfielddental.co.uk
Titchfield Dental Health is a forward thinking innovative practice which provides routine care or smile makeovers. Patients are welcomed by the friendly reception team who offer complimentary drinks in the comfortable waiting area. The surgeons carefully listen to dental needs and wants and together with the patient come up with options to meet requirements. The practice has had particular success treating nervous patients. From the first phone call, time and understanding is given and as the patient gets to know the team so the nervousness fades away leaving happy people who are confident to attend on a regular basis and also recommend their friends. The practice now offers conscious sedation for those who feel unable to commit to treatment without help. If you are someone, or you know someone who is apprehensive about coming to the dentist please ask them to call in or telephone the practice on 01489 581158 and one of our team will show them around or talk them through the dental journey.
‘School’s Out’ Weight Loss Offer!
Bring a child for free in August.
Recent figures show that around one in six children in the UK are now obese. Obesity increases the likelihood that children may develop health problems such as Type 2 Diabetes, high blood pressure, liver problems, asthma and high cholesterol in adulthood. It is becoming more common for these symptoms to appear in childhood. Often children who are experiencing difficulty with their weight and their relationship food have a parent who would like to lose weight too. Hampshire Hypnotherapy Centre can help. We have a unique programme that helps parents and children resolve their underlying emotional eating problem and enable them to change their relationship with food for good. The emphasis is on eating in a different way – not just on losing weight. If you are an overweight parent and you have a child who is overweight then Call 0800 970 4776 today to find out how you can bring your child along free for this life changing weight loss therapy (usual price £75 per session per person). Our friendly, non judgemental therapists will help you and your child to lose weight safely and effectively and it will be fun! But be quick… this offer is only for consultations booked during August. The phone call is FREE! The consultation is FREE! Your child’s therapy is FREE. All you have to lose is that unwanted weight!
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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charityfocus
race
life for
Southsea Common was in the pink last month when women from across the South joined forces for the Race for Life. This amazing event raises millions for Cancer Research and every runner and walker takes part in the event for someone they know who has suffered with or beaten the disease. Solent Life met many of the runners, of all ages, as they headed for the start in a real party atmosphere.
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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roadtest
small
with plenty of
ooomph The logo of the tuning company, Abarth, is a scorpion – and our test car most definitely had a sting. words • dave hill & janet grimm
W
ell, we certainly bring you variety in our car tests and this month is no different with what has to be the ultimate dream of every teenage boy racer – or the solution to a mid-life crisis with the Abarth Punto Evo with Essesse performance pack. Starting life as a fairly mundane reasonablypriced smallish family car, Abarth have performed a transformation that is quite remarkable. With a 1400cc engine one expects low fuel consumption and probably with that a correspondingly uninspiring performance. But add a highpressure turbo, a carefully-mapped engine management system and new suspension and the transformation is extraordinary. As if that wasn’t enough, the Essesse performance kit provides even more. This is not just a few ‘go-faster’ stripes, oh no! – revised turbo charger, air filter and injectors for additional engine performance, suspension upgrades from Koni, drilled and ventilated brakes from Brembo, 18-inch wheels and an improved exhaust system. This takes the Punto Evo to another level again. For those who like the numbers: 180 bhp, 272Nm of torque, 0–62 in 7.5 seconds and close to 140 mph top speed, and all of this is delivered out of a 1.4 litre engine. Changes from the original Fiat Punto continue inside the car also. These changes
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include sports seats, instruments, pedals and steering wheel etc. There is a lot in the overall package to justify its price tag of close to £20,000. The sports seats were firm and comfortable and importantly, with the lateral forces that this car can generate, lateral support was quite good also. Suspension was very firm and at low speeds on uneven surfaces gave a harsh, almost uncomfortable ride. Having said that, it is the compromise that one makes to achieve the superb handling performance achievable at higher speeds – and that really is outstanding. I am not sure I have ever driven a small front-wheel-drive car that inspired such confidence. On long sweeping curves the Punto gripped so well with little body roll and wonderful stability; on tighter curves, again stability and grip with direction changes that were accurate, sharp and beautifully executed. Just in front of the gearstick is a small switch – the Abarth Sport Driving switch – that allows selection of normal or sport modes. In normal mode the car feels quite comfortable to drive around town. One can coax a fairly smooth ride with engine performance somewhat subdued until the turbo boost pressure rises, then a lot of power is delivered but in quite a smooth, but brisk, way. Throttle responses are relaxed and progressive. However, select that sport mode and enter a different world of driving experiences. This unassuming switch alters the engine characteristics, throttle response, brakes and handling, as well as other things. The effect is striking and this feels like a really different car – very sporty and actually quite hard-line in the way it delivers. Touch the accelerator and there is an immediate response, the power delivery is much more dynamic and
• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
the handling feels different. The change is so marked that whilst it is seriously enjoyable to drive, for everyday use it is almost impossible to drive it in a way that gives any passenger a reasonably comfortable ride. Whilst immeasurable fun, for me it is a mode that would be selected now and again to really enjoy. Fuel economy is claimed to be very reasonable with figures like 47.1 mpg (combined cycle), 58.8 mpg (extra-urban) and 34.8mpg (urban) – very reasonable figures indeed. However, I suspect that one would have to enlist the help of one’s grandmother to get anything close to these returns. With the turbo spun up and the engine delivering its full potential, basic physics dictates that to get this amount of energy out then there must be a corresponding amount of energy source (such as petrol) being put in. In sport mode it is difficult – no, impossible –not to drive it delivering everything it has. I didn’t look at the fuel consumption figures that I achieved, and despite the stop/ start economy feature I know they were disgraceful – oh, but it was so much fun!
His summary Quickest way to lose a driving licence, you just will not be able to help yourself; passengers can’t keep quiet, either whooping with excitement and pure adrenaline or wails of fear and dismay from the unappreciative (generally more mature and sensible people). When I win the lottery I will definitely be adding one of these to my fleet.
N
ow, I’ve been told that I’m not a bad driver and never before has my 18-year-old sitting in the passenger seat shrieked and shouted as I drove. This time, however, his shrieks were of pleasure as I took him for a drive in the Abarth Punto Evo. ‘I want this car, Mum. Can we keep this one, please?’ he shouted as we put the car through its paces. His love for the Abarth knew no bounds even though the realization that he wouldn’t afford to insure it until he is nearly as ancient as me tempered his joy slightly. His delight was matched by that of an old friend of mine, thirty years his senior, but equally excited by this sporty little car. My clean (touch wood) driving licence would not stay that way for long as he shouted his encouragement to see what the Punto Evo could really do. Bizarrely this car had the outward appearance of being small, albeit perfectly formed, but actually turned out to be quite roomy, and the family fitted in well although the sports-style front bucket seats mean that legroom is slightly less generous in the back. Even the boot is big enough for the weekly shopping and for Bear the dog, although he may end up a little dishevelled as this little car is driven around every corner by taking the racing line. The seating is extremely comfortable,
front and back, although the front seat is not ideal for anybody under 5’4” as this means your head would be aligned with the hard Abarth logo set into the seat back. The steering wheel and controls are well thought out and the interior is extremely classy although not luxurious – no vanity mirror lights, for example, but who would need to bother with touching up their make-up if they were driving this beauty? The ICE was great and looked a little like a flat-screen TV. Most of all I loved the little graph indicating the build-up of the turbo power. In the Meridian Milano showroom there is a shelf filled with toy car versions of the Abarth Punto Evo and that is exactly what this car should be – a toy. It begs to be driven in sports mode, normal mode just seems too tame, but driving it to the max may prove to be a little too exhilarating in the long term, but what fun it would be to have one in the garage to bring out at weekends. l
Her summary A fun little car that instills a sense of joy in all who enter. The Abarth Punto Evo doesn’t so much ‘torque’ as SHOUT!
The car tested was Abath Punto Evo‘Essesse’. Kindly provided by Meridian Milano.
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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homes
Interior Transformations l Complete interior design
service, from just one room, to the whole house l Over 20 years experience
specializing in problem windows l The latest fabrics from the
best London Showrooms l Beautiful handmade
window treatments & soft furnishings l One of the finest selections
of designer fabrics and wallcoverings
Interior Transformations Interior Transformations first opened its doors 21 years ago in Botley High Street. After 7 years of successful trading Wendy Collins, the proprietor, moved the interior design business to a studio annex of her house in Swanwick to enable her to spend more time with her young family. Now the children have finished university and left home, the business is returning to it’s roots with a brand new studio situated in Botley Flour Mills – with a showroom more inspirational than ever! Whilst working from home, the business has expanded to include several interior design projects for small hotel chains and showhouses, along with growing the residential customer base. “I still have customers today whom I met in my first years of opening! A house is like the Forth Bridge – by the time you’ve finished everything – the first rooms need re-doing again! I still work to the motto of ‘Together we can transform your home’ as it’s not just about my vision – it is about how your client would like the room to look to reflect their own personality.” The studio is in a lovely sunny corner of the mill and is a perfect base for the Interior Design business. Customers are able to look through the latest fabric and wallpaper collections from leading design houses such as Sandersons, Harlequin, JAB, Villa Nova, Romo, Zinc, Voyage Decoration, Pierre Frey, Today Interiors, Brian Yates, Anna French and many more. Furniture and Accessories As well as having all the latest pattern books of fabrics and wall coverings, a selection of furnishings and accessories are displayed in beautiful room settings, giving a taster of the furniture which can be supplied to order. There is also a collection of gorgeous gift ideas for that last minute present! “We look forward to welcoming you – feel free to come in and browse!” 42…
Wendy Collins Interior Transformations
• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
l Free home consultation l Track fitting service
NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN IN BOTLEY FLOUR MILL
Displaying beautiful accessories, gifts & lamps Open Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm
Contact Wendy Collins on... 01489
780430
or email: wendy@interiortransformations.co.uk
Ceramic Wall & Floor Tiling Specialist
PAUL HUBBARD • Member of The The Tile Association • CSCS Registered
• Domestic & Commercial Work Undertaken • Marble • Slate • Porcelain • Ceramic • Limestone • Mosaic & More • Free Estimates Mob: 07775 725098 Tel: 01489 572954 Web: www.hubbard-tiling.co.uk
Traditional & contemporary kitchens & bedrooms Your recommendation is important to us Come and visit us at our new showroom
(01489) 781178 ☎ E: ultraplan@btconnect.com
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solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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ITG
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
BESPOKE GARDEN STUDIOS
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Visit Us 1 Church Street, Titchfield, PO14 4AH
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Members of the carpet foundation
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01329 844208 ☎ E: bettonsoftitchfield@btconnect.com W: www.bettons-titchfield.co.uk
Architectural Drawing Services ‘Based in Hedge End, Southampton, Hampshire, with over 25 years experience, Trevor Harrison has established Architectural Drawing Services as a leading provider in Architectural Drawing, Project Management and Construction. Undertaking projects throughout the South of England and more recently in France, Architectural Drawing Services has a wealth of knowledge and experience in changing design throughout the years. Because of our experience in dealing with planning permission and building control, Architectural Drawing Services achieve a higher than average success rate in obtaining planning approval. Working with your ideas and individual needs we strive to provide a personal, friendly and professional service, whilst remaining competitively priced. Our main goal is to enhance, improve and add value to your property, with our streamlined processes and flexible approach. Once designs are personally drawn and meet with your approval, we will then obtain the relevant permissions from local authorities in order to progress with the next stages of your project. If you require we will arrange to undertake full project management or simply recommend contractors who we feel would be best suited to your specific needs’.
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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back to school
when only the
best
kit
will do The little darlings have been under your feet for six weeks now but, despite that, when they return to school following the summer recess you do miss them. But first you have the joy of kitting them out in new uniforms and school bags, ensuring the right logos or imagery are adorned on the outside, and the correct shoes, all trendy, but within school rules – your choice but ensuring the fewest tantrums. words & images • david rose-massom
T
he school bag is the must-have accessory for this year’s student and top of the range at a touch over £1,500 the Anton from Louis Vuitton is inspired by the traditional school bag. Fashioned in leather, it has distinctive Louis Vuitton-engraved press locks and a foamed computer compartment. For the uniform only the best outfitters will do, within a reasonable budget, of course, as the little darlings do insist on continuing to grow, so it is off up the motorway to Harrods for some quality togs.
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Three-button blazers for girls or boys at slightly under the £100 mark seems like excellent and hardwearing value, and for the colder winter days at school the Wetherby tweed overcoat will do nicely at £120. Then there is the summer dress for the girls, shorts or trousers for the boys and the polo shirts for sports day, all available from the Harrods school uniform department. Then there is the toughest of decisions for parents and child alike – the footwear: the correct trainers, the sensible shoes and none purchased without the inevitable cross
• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
words and tantrums, and that just from the grown-ups. Gucci produce the Ace v.1. trainers, or sneaker as they prefer to call them, and this drops in at a very reasonable £130 or the Coda high-top are very de rigour at just £155. For that smarter appearance, the boys will look great in the classic moccasin at £170 or for the girls there is the Charlotte ballerina with ankle strap which is an attractive shoe for just £150. Yes, parents, school holidays are over and the children are heading back to the new year and even the new school. They have standards to keep as important as your first day at the office – the statement they make on that first day can be as vital as any dress statement we adults can make to impress, so bear with them when the time comes for the new uniforms and accessories. Now, are you going to let yourself be outdone by those other 4x4 high fashion mums? And you’d better not let the kids read this! l
SPORTS MANIA Sportswear, Footwear, Equipment and Trophies A sports shop like sport shops used to be! Sportsmania have successfully been servicing the needs of local football clubs for the last 10 years so when we moved to new larger premises in February 2010 we decided to try and emulate sport shops of old. Friendly, helpful service and a wide range of sports equipment covering a multitude of sports from Bowls to Boxing, Football to Darts. If we don’t stock it we will try and get it for you. So if you don’t fancy a trip to town for a new pair of trainers give us a try. Our FREE car park is literally 20 feet from our door so you don’t even have to walk far.
New Part-Time courses for 2011/12 If you’re looking to expand your skills, learn something new or want to get back into a certain line of work, then Fareham College is here to help. There is a wealth of courses to choose from with start dates in either September 2011 or early 2012 depending on your course of interest. Whether you want to fulfil a personal interest or need to develop your skills in your current employment, the following areas offer something to fit in with your requirements and lifestyle: Engineering; IT; Hairdressing; Access to Nursing; Air Cabin Crew; Business and Accounting; Childcare; Education; First Aid; Food Hygiene; Law; and Maths and English GCSEs. For more information, call (01329) 815200 or email info@fareham.ac.uk.
sonic embroidery School Uniform Specialists ● Full Uniform for boys and girls Embroidened and plain ● Navy blue trousers stocked ● Corporate and Leisure Wear
Ring for details Tel: 01489 795955 The Old Stables Pudbrook Farm Church Lane Botley Southampton SO30 2EQ
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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greenfingers
August
greenfingers Here’s hoping for lots of fine weather in August so we can sit back and enjoy the garden. If you don’t want to say goodbye to your flowering plants just yet, with a little effort you can achieve a longer flowering period for many garden favourites. words • anne watson
G
ive flowering plants a weekly feed and deadhead regularly. As well as taking off the heads of flowering perennials, cut back stems to encourage new flowers. Roses that have been pruned will bloom again well into autumn. If you need inspiration pay a visit to the garden centre and you might be tempted by a few additions for your garden that you can admire right into the autumn. Perennials are coming into their own now, with plenty of choice to fit whatever space you have available. Think about using the right combination of shrubs to set off the plants and the space around them – ask for advice if you’re unsure. If you have a gap to fill in your border try
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rudbeckia. The cheerful yellow daisy-like flowers will brighten up your garden from now until October. Rudbeckia is an easy to care for hardy perennial that likes full sun or partial shade and spreads to about 60cm wide. Hydrangea is another favourite, either the big mophead variety or lacecaps with round, flat flowerheads. Look out for arborescens and paniculata varieties. If you have a large enough space they look good planted alongside the already-mentioned rudbeckia or leucanthemum for a real colour contrast and foliage drama. When planting shrubs mix in plenty of compost to give your new additions a good start. Bark mulch is ideal to use around newly-planted or drought-prone plants. It’s organic, long-lasting, retains moisture and prevents weeds, while encouraging wildlife and providing nutrients to improve soil texture. Soil is often dry in August, so keep everything well-watered. Use recycled household water or rainwater from your water butt wherever possible. Think about the bulbs you would like and start planting in late August and September. Choose now while there is a full selection and you’ll be glad of them next spring. Why not plant some in containers for early spring colour and position them where they will cheer you up? l
• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Jobs for this month: l Continue feeding your tomato plants weekly to help them get ripe and tasty. Remove yellow leaves. l T rim hedges if they need it, so new growth is ready for the colder weather. l C ut back your lavender as soon as it’s finished flowering to keep it looking good for next year. Until next time, happy gardening!
Scarecrows outstanding in their field £1,000 of prize money was awarded to the best scarecrows in an annual competition run by Garsons Garden Centre in Titchfield. The top prize of £500 went to Western Wards After School Club in Locks Heath, who will buy new equipment and games. Pictured are the winners, Sue Gasser (left) and Janina Ellis, with Neil Jackson from Garsons.
Inspirational outside spaces where once there was just a garden
THE PATIO CENTRE
• Garden design & planning • Landscaping • Award winning environmental policy
01329 289542
OutsideSpaces LTD
www.outsidespacesltd.co.uk
For all your paving & landscaping needs...
Garden Design
• Natural Indian Stone available! • Special Offers every month! Please see website for details • The Patio Centre has many years of experience as a landscape gardener and can give advice and guidance on your garden projects. • Always get that personal touch!
Find us at: Belvedere Farm, Titchfield Lane, Wickham, Hampshire PO17 5PQ (⅓ mile south of Wickham Golf Club)
Tel: 01329 835522 | Fax: 01329 835 630
www.thepatiocentres.co.uk
Flaming Andy FLAMING ANDY BBQ Chef in conjunction with SAVOURY EXPRESS Let us come and cook your BBQ, to make it a special occasion. Rain or Shine we can cater for all your requirements. Contact Andy on 01329 511528 or 07919 447794 or visit www.savouryexpress.co.uk for more photos and references.
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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Pon D octor
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01489 788883 • Hillier Garden Centre, Woodhouse Lane, Botley SO30 2EZ
there’s an app for that... Why not check us out online?
Scan the QR code on your smart phone for a direct link to the Solent Life website! Keep up to date on the move, read this months features and enter our competition! Visit our website at: www.solentlife.co.uk
Situated on the marina front, offering spectacular views of Portsmouth Harbour, G’s Wine Bar at the bakery is the perfect blend of classic and contemporary. Lunch and A La Carte menus. Fine cuisine based on healthy recipes from around the Mediterranean, cooked to order and served in our contemporary restaurant by the original bakers area in a 200 year old building. Supporting Solent Life and the crew at the Fastnet Farewell Party on the 13th August 2011. We look forward to seeing you there.
☎
02392 513202 www.g s g o s p o r t .co m
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
DOWNSIZED TO EASIER LIFESTYLE Berkeley at Royal Clarence Marina, Gosport When Debbie and Steve Evans made the decision to move from their family home in Lee-on-Solent, they decided to take their time because they wanted to find the perfect property that would give them space and light. They also wanted to be close the coast and facilities, but they did not look for long. Debbie Evans explained: “We loved our home in Lee-on-Solent, so we thought it would take a while to find a new home that would live up to our expectations. However, the moment we saw Royal Clarence Marina, we knew that it would be perfect. Our house sold really well and the whole experience was relatively straightforward.” Debbie went on to say: “I am loving our new home, we have been here three months now and it has flown by. I have a stunning new kitchen and I have bought matching accessories so it looks beautiful; also, the bathrooms are better than most hotels! It only takes me half an hour to do the cleaning, so we have more free time and we are now almost mortgage-free. Everyone is very friendly and we love the peace and atmosphere of the old buildings around us. This move has been life changing for us; I am so happy here.” Pippa Bugby, Berkeley Southern sales & marketing director of commented: “The transformation of Royal Clarence Marina is a real eye opener for most people who come here for the first time as they cannot believe that a luxury marina apartment with one of the best views of Portsmouth Harbour could be within their means. We have just launched a new phase of commercial units on the waterfront with our second restaurant and wine bar opening soon.” For further information on Royal Clarence Marina, please call 023 92 52 9054 to make an appointment to view or register online at www.berkeleyhomes.co.uk. Current prices are from £155,000 for a 1bedroom apartment, £240,000 for a 2 bedroom and £290,000 for a duplex.
backtonature
August
wildlife If you walk quietly and carefully along the paths at Swanwick Lakes during the month of August you might be rewarded by the sight of a common lizard basking in the summer sunshine. Path edges or walls make great basking spots because they trap the heat of the sun. Lizards, like other reptiles, need to warm their bodies by sitting on these sun-warmed surfaces. If there are tussocks of vegetation nearby then it’s an even better spot because this will provide insects and other small creatures for the reptiles to eat, as well as cover from inquisitive eyes! words • jess daish-miller images • darinn smith
Y
oung grass snakes should also be around this month. Grass snakes lay their eggs in piles of decaying vegetation, like compost heaps, which keeps the eggs warm. Look out for the adults swimming in Centre Lake. They are good swimmers and sometimes hunt in water for the frogs, toads and newts which they like to eat. If lizards and snakes aren’t for you, then there is still plenty of other wildlife and beautiful views to enjoy while walking around Swanwick Lakes in the late summer sunshine. If you enjoy seeing our butterflies every summer why not bring the family to our Butterfly Gardening Trail day on 17th August? The event is part of the 50th birthday celebrations of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. Everyone who attends gets to take home some wild honeysuckle to plant in their garden! Honeysuckle is a
events at Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve… Pond Dipping for Grown-ups 4th August • 10.30am Pond dipping is not the preserve of school groups! Join reserve staff to find out more about the freshwater life at Swanwick Lakes. Learn about the fascinating habits of underwater creatures and how to observe them safely. Suggested donation £3 per person. Please bring outdoor clothing and sensible shoes. Booking is essential.
Wild Camp The local wildlife club for young people who care about their environment and want to get involved. 11th August • 10.00 am – 2.00 pm Enjoy a day outdoors at Swanwick Lakes learning some useful bushcraft skills including campfire cooking and simple tool use. An event for children aged 8–14. Suggested donation £4 per child. Please bring a packed lunch, outdoor clothing and wellies. Children do not have to be accompanied by an adult but booking and parental consent are essential.
Butterfly Gardening Trail vital food plant for some of our rarest butterflies. See details under Events. Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve is an 86-acre reserve located on Sopwith Way, off Swanwick Lane. The reserve is owned by NATS and managed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. The reserve is open from dawn until dusk for all to enjoy. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust works to create a better future for wildlife and wild places in Hampshire and the Island. Find out more at www.hwt.org.uk.
Join us today …and enjoy the benefits of being a member of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. For more information contact our membership team on 01489 774408.
17th August • 10.00 am – 12.00 noon or 1.30–3.30 pm A wildlife trail to discover native butterflies and insects for families. Everyone who attends gets to take home some wild honeysuckle to plant in their garden! A 50th anniversary event. Suggested donation of £3 per child. Please bring outdoor clothing and shoes. Booking is essential as places are limited.
Swanwick Toddlers – Green Fingers 6th September • 10.30 am – 12.00 noon or 1.00–2.30 pm Our ever-popular pre-school activities start again for a new term. Join us for stories, crafts and outdoor adventures on the theme of gardening. Suggested donation of £3 per child. Please wear wellies and outdoor clothes. Booking is essential as places are limited. For bookings or more information about any of our events please phone Dawn or Jess on 01489 570240.
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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adventure
girl
power
The distinctive blue hull of Koru battled its way out of Portsmouth Harbour, her only sail a fully-reefed mainsail. Even to get to the Cowes start line was going to be an uncomfortable ride. As the all-female crew turned their racing vessel across the front of the Solent forts and on toward Gilkicker Point the wind and tide made the going slow, but the atmosphere on board was one of excitement and determination, and the whole crew was smiling. words & images • david rose-massom
C
FROM THE COCKPIT
rewmember Penny Priddy told Solent Life what it felt like to approach the start line following the team’s pulling out of the previous crossChannel race due to foul weather. “Absolute trepidation, but I was feeling more cross than anxious because we did not want to get beaten by the weather a second time,” she said in very determined tones. “Reaching the starting line was a relief, especially when we cut the engines.” Penny explained it was an eerie moment in the crowded waters off Cowes as 173 boats circled for position. “It was a very strange moment when the engines were shut off; if you have the engine going once over the start line then you are out of the race, but the yachts out there were just like a great pod of whales as they circled waiting for the start gun. “Once the start gun fired we were off and we headed east so we had the wind with us. We could see what other boats were doing which was helping us.” It was a week later that she spoke of it but the excitement that Penny felt that day was easily being relived. “It was a release that we were going again and we thought of nothing but sailing. All
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that my mind was set on was doing my job on the boat; there was nothing else going on in the world.” Penny works in the cockpit grinding the winches that set the sails. “You have to watch what you are doing at all times, but it is so tricky not to look down at the winch rather than up at the sail as you have to wind the handle just a little harder. You also have the harsh wind in your face and the cold, wet sea spray breaking all over you. “Then once your job is done you have to climb uphill across the sloping deck as the boat is heeled right over, so that you can take your place sitting on the rail and being part of the counterbalance for the boat.” Three members of the crew are still battling with seasickness but the crew’s confidence has been built to deal with these problems following their sea-survival course. “We all know what we are doing now and how to look after ourselves and our crewmates and Jannine is such an experienced skipper that we have total confidence in her. “Later in the race the wind dropped and the sickies got up, got their gear on and went back to work; we were all very impressed with them. The secret to looking after yourself to a great extent is to keep the intake of fluids up, which causes its own problems.” Laughter burst from Penny’s
• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
mouth and she warned that the gory details were about to follow. “We are all women on board so peeing is a problem!” The laughter grew. “When you come off watch you are tired and need rest, but you also need the toilet and that means removing layer after layer of clothing, and there are lots of layers. Then you have to sit on the loo when the boat is at 45 degrees; it is not an easy thing to overcome. “That weekend we became a real team and we got a little cheekier and braver with each other.” Did they get to enjoy France once over the finish line? “Once over the line we just turned Koru around and headed back; we needed that to push us for the endurance we will feel during the Fastnet Race. “As I climbed into my car back home at Clarence Marina I realised we had been at sea for 73 hours, and yet all I wanted to do was get back on board and sail off again. Now we are just six miles short of our 300mile qualifying distance for the Fastnet.” As Penny finished her story she had one proud moment that stuck in her mind. “We put the spinnaker up at night, in the dark; everyone was just so good at what they were doing. Then when I got back I just had to thank Koru. I miss her when not on board – she is a boat with heart!”
LIFE ON THE FOREDECK Chloe Porteous lives her sailing life at the sharp end. “There are actually two of us on the foredeck, me working at the mast and Vanessa at the bow,” she told Solent Life. “Most foredeck work revolves around the spinnaker, so setting it up, gybing etc, and as mast person my extra height is certainly an advantage as it helps in being able to set up the spinnaker pole (which is not light!) and also being able to manhandle it in the gybes. Depending how often we gybe, it can be pretty hard work! “We only carry one size of spinnaker, which means in reality there’s an upper limit of wind strength when we’d fly the spinnaker, so consequently we tend not to be down there when it’s blowing a gale – thankfully! Likewise we use a furling genoa, which means we’re also spared doing headsail changes while on the go. “That’s not to say it’s without it’s hairy moments though – there have been a couple of occasions when we’ve been sailing hard to windward and someone needs to go down to the bow and set the spinnaker up on the leeward side, ready for a hoist when we come off the wind. It’s at times like that you can expect to get wet feet at the very least! The adrenaline certainly flows then, as you then realise how close to the elements you actually are. “It would be a nice thought to think the foredeck team can lie back and take it easy when we’re not sailing downwind, but alas this is racing and as I’m learning there’s always something to do. My secondary task is therefore working the main sheet, which, as I found out on our St Malo trip, can be equally as demanding as it needs constant attention to make the best of the wind but also avoid any dramas with the gusts. “Our race to St Malo was a great experience, and I have a real sense of fulfilment after completing it. We had just about every kind of weather on that trip, ranging from high wind and rain on the way out of the Solent and across the Channel to virtually no wind passing the Channel Islands on the way to St Malo. It’s times such as that when I’ve realised it’s as much about endurance than anything else. “My one fear has been sleep deprivation, so this is something I’ve fixated on a lot. I mean, for someone who loves nothing more than a lie-in in the morning, having to work in constant three- to four-hour shifts for several days is a daunting prospect.” “But the St Malo trip taught me that it’s manageable, particularly as there are times when you’re so tired that you’ll
FASTNET FAREWELL Over the past few months we have been following the ladies of Koru as they prepare for the toughest week of their lives. Such has been the response from you, the Solent Life readers, that we are holding a bon voyage party on the quayside as they leave for the start. ROYAL CLARENCE MARINA, Weevil Lane, Gosport from 4pm til 7.30pm (Koru leaves the marina at around 7pm) on SATURDAY 13th August.
I found that I craved pot noodles when waking up in the middle of the night to start a shift.
have absolutely no problem falling asleep wherever you are! I’ve also found it is massively important to look after yourself as a whole though, so food, hydration and morale are important. For example, I found that I craved pot noodles when waking up in the middle of the night to start a shift – not the most nutritious of meals admittedly, but wonderful for my morale! What didn’t help me though was fantasising about being under a nice warm duvet at 4.00 am in the middle of a cold rainy English Channel with another 48 hours still to go! “The fulfilment was having completed it as a
Supported by the developer of Royal Clarence Marina, BERKELEY HOMES, and G's WINE BAR & RESTAURANT it will be the chance to meet the crew before they set off for one of the toughest yacht races in the world. G’s will be offering BBQ cooked to order, as well as their normal extensive menu, and apparently there will be plenty of Pimms on offer!
team, having managed it on a personal level and also having put in what I think was a great performance,” Chloe continued. “Many boats dropped out of that race for one reason or another, and although we were a long way off reaching a top position I’m enormously proud of what we achieved. “Although I still have an enormous amount of trepidation about the Fastnet itself, I’m a lot more confident about how I’ll be able to handle it on a personal level. And, of course, I now have the ultimate excuse to have lots of lie-ins in the morning – it’s all part of my Fastnet race preparations!" l
www.berkeleygroup.co.uk/berkeley/ royal-clarence-marina www.gsgosport.com/ WIN – there will also be the chance for one lucky reader to win a signed, framed mono image of the Koru picture on this page t by David Rose-Massom and will be presented by the skipper of Koru – WIN (Draw on the evening)
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communitynews
August
community news
Your essential guide to all the local news and events in your community SOUTHAMPTON CANAL SOCIETY MEETINGS Thursday 1st September Southampton Canal Society: Brian Evans presentation on the CALDON CANAL – Bewdley, Bridgnorth and the railway between. 7.45pm Chilworth Parish Hall, Chilworth SO16 7JZ. Visitors welcome, raffle, refreshments. Friday 8th October Southampton Canal Society: DAY STAR THEATRE new for 2011 A Long Weekend. 7.45 pm Chilworth Parish Hall, Chilworth SO16 7JZ. Tickets £8 including an American supper. 02380 675312 www.sotoncs.org.uk. WARSASH CHORAL SOCIETY The Society resumed their rehearsals on Friday 29th July in readiness for their autumn concert which will take place in St Paul’s Church, Sarisbury Green, at 7.30pm on Friday 4th November. The work being performed will be Mendelssohn’s Elijah. The Society urgently requires extra voices to sing in this lovely work. They would welcome anyone who would like to go along and sing (sopranos, altos and especially tenors and basses). Rehearsals are on Friday nights in the Bartholomew Room at the Victory Hall, Warsash, at 8.00pm for an 8.15 pm start. It is free and music is provided. Josephine Wylie told Solent Life, “If your readers are still on holiday for the first rehearsals then do please come and join us when they return; all will be made most welcome.” Josephine Wylie (telephone 01489 892326) HEARING DOGS COFFEE MORNING South Hants Hearing Dogs for deaf people will be holding one of their coffee mornings on Saturday 6th August at Portland House, 29 High Street, Botley SO30 2EA, from 10.00 am till 12.30pm. Entrance £1.50 including tea and biscuits with plants, books and lots, lots more! All proceeds to Hearing Dogs for Deaf People www.hearingdogs.org.uk. Further information or directions call 01489 783118.
CHAMPAGNE AND CHOCOLATES Whiteley WAGS Women’s Institute meets on the first Thursday of every month at Whiteley Primary School, Gull Coppice. Helen Tucker, the Whiteley WAGS Women’s Institute Secretary, told Solent Life, “This is a brand new WI that is growing fast; please come and join us soon. You will make new friends, learn new skills and enjoy yourself,” she said. “Young or old, we would love to see you as this is a fresh approach to the traditional WI model.” The next meeting is Thursday 1st September 2011. Champagne and Chocolates www.whiteleywags.co.uk. A JOY TO BEHOLD Solent Life reader, Liz Marshall, wrote asking if we could mention a little thing they are starting and it should bring some fun and light into local lives. “My friend Gina and I are starting the Fareham Glee Club in September,” she told us. “We will be part of Glee Club UK started just over a year ago by a genial, enthusiastic, hugely-talented 40-year-old musician, Richard Whennell, in Bracknell. We will be the first club on the south coast.” As the name suggests they are a singing and dancing club for anyone over the age of 16 with the main objectives of setting up within local communities environments full of warmth, friendliness, encouragement and a little excitement to entice people to come out and have FUN! The first meeting of the Fareham West Glee Club will be on Thursday 8th September. Venue: The United Reform Church, Warsash Road, Warsash. Time 7.30pm. All can be assured of a most warm and friendly welcome – music, movement and fun guaranteed! Email Liz Marshall for more information: liz.r.marshall@googlemail.com.
NEARLY NEW Over a hundred sellers will submit good quality, nearly new children’s clothes, toys, baby equipment, games, books, nursery equipment, maternity wear and more! With thousands of items for sale everyone can save money for other things by buying nearly new children’s goods. If you want to sell your items (you will receive 75% back as 25% goes to local children’s charities) call or text 07594 511571 for a Seller’s Pack (cost of pack is free to members and £1 to nonmembers). Organiser Vikki Beswick told Solent Life, “We are a non-profit organisation serving the very local community of Warsash, Locks Heath, Park Gate and Sarisbury Green. All profits from our Nearly New sales are donated straight to local charities and causes that serve families in our locality and we are manned by many volunteers who give their time to make all our events a success. We sell thousands of very good quality children’s items at each sale, with sellers who submit receiving 75% of the money back whilst the remaining 25% is donated to charities. We are the best form of recycling!” Contact Vikki Beswick on 07815 939194 or vikkibeswick@aol.com. The Parent Network Nearly New Sale, Saturday 10th September. Entry 10.00 till 11.45am. Admission £1 (children free). Victory Hall, Warsash. COUNTRY MARKET Stubbington Country Market is held EVERY Friday in Stubbington Library from 9.30am to 12.30pm. We will also be having a stall at Stubbington Bank Holiday Fayre on Monday 29th August 2011.
IF YOU HAVE A LOCAL EVENT… …you wish to promote then please contact us at info@solentlife.co.uk
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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out&about
out&about Solent Life has been venturing out across the region to capture and bring to you some of the best events in the past few weeks… words & images • david rose-massom
Warsash Festival
It is a day when a community just celebrates being and the Warsash Festival is one of the closest communities in the Solent Life area. It was a beautiful summer’s day, and the charity runners were busy chasing each other around the village while the less energetic strolled among displays and gazebos carrying nickknacks and treats, while down at the bottom of Strawberry Field, where brass bands played, the River Hamble glinted in the sunshine. It was an idyllic English day.
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Forces Day
It was the chance to meet the crews, wander around the warships and celebrate all that is great about our armed forces during Armed Forces Day. Solent Life took the ferry across Portsmouth Harbour to the Historic Dockyard and had a great day meeting today’s fighting men and women as well as some of the veterans from the Royal Navy.
Winchester Hat Fair
The performers arrive from all over the world for a weekend of magical street theatre when Winchester puts on its annual Hat Fair. Jugglers, comics, actors and just daft performers entertain and involve the city and its visitors for three wonderful days of mayhem each summer.
Carters of Swanwick Three attractive Italian girls, one standard ride-on lawn mower and a trip across 2000km of Europe travelling through five countries before arriving at Swanwick and local dealer Carters who are celebrating 90 years in business and of serving their community.
Holding an event you’d like us to feature? Simply email details of your event to info@solentlife.co.uk and we will do our best to cover the most exciting and interesting events.
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
A division of HBS Group Southern, Solar4UK are an exclusive Sales & Marketing front-end to target the huge potential of the Commercial & Domestic marketplace to supply & install MCS approved Solar Electrical PV Micro-Generation Systems. We would like to offer you a free no-Obligation Solar Consultation & Home Survey. Our formal Quotation will propose a great PV solution for you. Frankly our Systems can deliver more in kWp output, efficiency and ROI and we are the acknowledged experts in Solar PV on the South Coast. We have been trading for over 60 years and are an established company who has been involved in the supply of New & Renewable Energy's to the major UK home builders, like Barratt, Linden, Orchard & Persimmon Homes, and the rest of the building trade for over 10 years now. PV market comprises of national vendors or a major energy suppliers, like EDF, who have only recently taken solar PV on, both of whom farm out the installation to an approved MCS company, like us! With all of that under our belt we do not believe that any other competitor can compete on a like for like basis. The administration of the FIT payments, or "Government Cash-Back Scheme" has already been agreed between the Government and the Energy Suppliers and it is transparent of who supply's and installs your system. NB! Solar4UK are not panel, or manufacturer dependent and we are now stocking the full range for industry brands like Sharp, Mitsubishi, Schuko, Kioto, Yingli, Dimplex, Ideal - both Mono & Poly PV panels. Check out our latest Advertising Campaign. This and our Web Site www.solar4uk.co.uk will thoroughly brief you on the "Solar4UK Solar PV Proposition". Solar4UK 4kWp PV Systems start at £11,750 and We can now also offer a maximum system using 255 Watt panels if you are looking towards that with a view to maximizing your investment and returns.
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WE PAY THE VAT INCREASE FOR YOU solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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Business Directory Accountants JACKY GREGORY ACA Chartered Accountants Accounting, Payroll, Reporting & Taxation Sole Traders, Partnerships & Limited Companies
FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION
Tel: 01489 885491
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CYCLE REPAIRS Nigel Tidman - Mobile Service Experienced & Friendly Mechanic • Same day repairs available • Service £40 • Collected & delivered to your door
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New Builds Extensions/Renovations Loft Conversions Project Management Kitchen & Bathroom Installations All General Building Work Take a look at our website www.urban-developments.com Contact Pete on: 07900 082882 02392 135938
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
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01329 825045 solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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Business Directory General Maintenance
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62…
=
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
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solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
…63
what’s
on guide
Local events across the Solent region.
Music & Theatre
The Point, Eastleigh Tel… 02380 652333 Chichester Festival Theatre Tel… 01243 781312 Salisbury Playhouse Tel… 01722 320333 Mayflower Theatre Tel… 02380 711811 Theatre Royal, Winchester Tel… 01962 840440 King’s Theatre, Southsea Tel… 02392 828282 Tower Arts Centre, Winchester Tel… 01962 867986 Ferneham Hall Tel… 01329 231942 Ashcroft Arts Centre, Fareham Tel… 01329 310600 The Concorde Club Tel… 02380 613989
If you have anything going on, tell us here at Solent Life and we will include it in our feature Tel… 01489 583800 Fax… 01489 583803 Email…
whatson@solentlife.co.uk
64…
REVIEW …What a glorious feeling Well, the rain was certainly coming down in Chichester on press night for Singin’ in the Rain, but it didn’t dampen any spirits in the theatre. reviewed • sue brooks
solentlife theatre correspondent
I
am sure that many people know and love the MGM film musical with Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Connor and they will not be disappointed with this production ably directed by Jonathan Church. The story, for those who don’t know it, revolves around the arrival of talking movies in Hollywood. Silent movie star Don Lockwood and his on-screen partner Lina Lamont are set to star in the studio’s first talking picture. Problem: Lina has a less than perfect voice. Help comes in the form of Don’s off-screen love Kathy Seldon, brought in to dub over Lina’s voice in secret, but when Lina finds out problems arise. Don Lockwood is played by Adam Cooper. His time with the Royal Ballet Company really shows in a very polished performance, especially the title piece Singin’ in the Rain which is beautifully delivered on a requisite rain-drenched stage with plenty of splashing – so avoid the front row if you want to stay dry. Scarlett Strallen makes a very good Kathy with a delightful voice and Daniel Crossley as the
• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
loveable sidekick Cosmo Brown puts his own stamp on the amusing Make ’em Laugh. Lina Lamont is brilliantly portrayed by the very talented Katherine Kingsley, whose cringe-worthy accent and offkey voice are done to perfection. ‘All singing, all dancing’ sums up this show. Andrew Wright’s dazzling choreography is a joy to behold. The dance numbers are well-executed by a great-looking and enthusiastic chorus line. The costumes and set designs complement the storytelling and the clever use of black and white film clips gives a real feel of 1920’s Hollywood. The highlight of the show is the reprise of the title song performed superbly with energy and panache by the whole cast on a rain-washed stage, leading to a well-deserved standing ovation and a contented audience leaving the theatre with very definite smiles on their faces. This is a wonderful show with a real feel-good factor. Singin’ in the Rain is at the Chichester Festival Theatre until 10th September. For booking information and other productions visit www.cft.org.uk
THAT’LL BE THE DAY Prepare yourself for a party as the legendary That’ll Be the Day, the nation’s favourite rock ’n’ roll variety show returns by popular demand with a brand new production. This hugely-entertaining rock ’n’ roll spectacular features an all-new line-up of the classic gold hits of the 1950s through to the ’70s, mixed with loads of new zany comedy routines to produce a show with a real feel good party atmosphere. Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre, every Wednesday to Saturday from 31st August to 17th September. All at 7.45 pm. Tickets £23.50, £21, £19. Call the Ticketline on 0844 576 3000 or book online at www.bic.co.uk. THE KING AND I Do you remember the thrill of The King and I when Yul Brynner wowed the ladies with his shaven head, and Deborah Kerr was the bossy schoolteacher the King of Siam appointed to teach his 77 children how to act like civilised Westerners? Judging from the excitement amongst the young cast the magic is still there at Ferneham Hall, where the award-winning Fareham Musical Society is putting the show on during September 2011. It is not for nothing either that the Society has won several awards for dancing and choreography, for the dancing schools of Fareham all work closely with FMS to ensure we continue the tradition of excellence. The King and I, based upon the true book Anna and the King of Siam, has strong tensions between the King and his appointee. Sometimes these tensions result in comedy, and at other times in discord. The tragic end begs the question who is the civilised and who the civiliser. The King and I is on at Ferneham Hall from Tuesday 20th to Saturday 24th September at 7.30pm, plus a 2.30pm matinée on 24th. Tickets are £13.00, with concessions at £11.00. Tuesday night’s tickets are all priced at £10.50. Website www.farehammusicalsociety. co.uk, tel 01329 231942.
Events
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM There can be no better outdoor setting for this classic and popular Shakespeare play than the gardens and railway at Exbury. Chapterhouse Theatre Company will be performing this delightful family production as frolicking fairies, raucous workmen, song, dance and magical verse all combine to create an enchanting evening in magical surroundings. EXBURY GARDENS, near Beaulieu, on Saturday 27th August at 7.30 pm. Adults £12 and children £8 with family tickets available. Grounds open an hour earlier for picnics and bring your own blankets and low-back seating. Ticket information 02380 245750 or www.exbury.co.uk. BRAZILIAN RHYTHMS This summer a taste of Brazil comes to Bournemouth with a series of performances of authentic Brazilian music and dance at the Bournemouth Pavilion. On Friday 19th August the Rio Summer Ball will include a spectacular dance show, authentic Brazilian dance bands, and dancing for all until late. This colourful and fun event gives the chance to experience a full evening of high quality authentic Brazilian entertainment set in the splendour of the Pavilion Ballroom. On Saturday 20th August there is the chance to relax in the afternoon with the cool summer sounds of top-class authentic Latin Jazz and Bossa Nova performed by Jandira Silva. Jandira is a highly-accomplished singer, having regularly performed at the National Theatre and the legendary London jazz venues 606 Jazz
Club and The Jazz Café. She will be accompanied by a quartet of top Latin musicians. Finally the Theatre Show on the evening of Saturday 20th August will be a presentation of the full two-act theatrical show Brasil – Eu Sou O Samba. This is a high energy, classy but fun, journey through the infectious rhythms of Brazil. The title of the show roughly translates as Brazil – I am the Samba. Bournemouth Pavilion, Friday 19th and Saturday 20th August. Call the Ticketline on 0844 576 3000, book online at www. bic.co.uk or visit the BIC or Bournemouth Pavilion Ticket Office in person. SWANWICK, BURSLEDON AND WARSASH REGATTA Held annually at the Elephant Boatyard, Bursledon, the theme this year is the Venetian Masquerade Carnival. Events kick off on Saturday morning with dinghy racing in the River Hamble and then Saturday afternoon there is the usual fun and games on the water kicking off at 1.00pm. Events include barbecue, bar, canoe, rowing and swimming races, gig racing, fancy dress for children, tea tent, Venetian water carnival. There is a hog roast in the evening with a torchlight dinghy procession and Son et Lumière, and the finale is a fantastic firework display. Sunday morning there is yacht racing and in the afternoon gig racing. Always great fun throughout the weekend. The Regatta this year is on 3rd and 4th September. www. bursledonregatta.co.uk. BUS ROUTE If buses are your thing then everyone from kids to adults will
love the Provincial Bus Rally with plenty of free rides on buses of yesteryear and something for all the family at this event on the main field at Stokes Bay between 10.00am and 4.30pm. Free entry for everyone. Enjoy face-painting, a bouncy castle and many other stalls as well as looking at buses and coaches from the past and present. Join in and watch the cavalcade of buses around the area. Best bus on parade judged by the Mayor of Gosport. The cavalcade leaves the site at 1.30pm. The seven-mile route is along Stokes Bay Road, Gomer Lane, Military Road, Brockhurst Road, Forton Road to the ferry and back along South Street, Privett Road to Jellicoe Avenue, then turning into Jellicoe Avenue to the rally site. Organised by a local transport registered charity the Provincial Society and supported by First Bus, Brijan Tours and Bus & Coach Preservation magazine. Further details can be found on our website: STOKES BAY, GOSPORT on Sunday 7th August, www.provincialsociety. org.uk. WILD IN THE GARDENS A special exhibition of paintings of British wildlife, particularly the wild plants, birds, animals, insects and fungi found at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, is to take place at the Gardens in October. The incredibly lifelike watercolour paintings have been produced over the last two and a half years by Felicity Rose Cole, Audrey Hardcastle, Lizzie Harper and Christina Hart-Davies. These four eminent natural history artists worked together to illustrate the award-winning Collins Flower Guide published in 2009, and
their stunning artwork was shown at the Gardens in April that year. The subject matter has been widened for this exhibition, but the same superb artistry and detailed style is evident in their beautiful work. All the work will be for sale, and cards and prints will be available too. At least one of the artists will be in attendance most days. SIR HAROLD HILLIER GARDENS, Romsey, Saturday 15th to 23rd October. Open daily 10.00am to 5.00pm. Free entry to the exhibition. For more information contact Christina 01202 671190, Lizzie 01497 821578, c.hartdavies@ ntlworld.com or lizzieharper@ tinyworld.co.uk. END OF SUMMER BALL Featuring a dance demonstration by the present UK Professional Latin American champions Oleksii Ivanets and Lisa BellingerIvanets. With compère Claire Taplin and music by Colin Mansbridge it promises to be a great evening for all ballroom dance fans. THORNBURY HALL, Bury Road, Gosport, on Saturday 24th September at 8.00pm. Tickets just £12.50 and available from Barry Sears on 02392 529768. THAI FOOD AND CRAFT FESTIVAL There will probably be no more colourful festival than this during the summer. Costumes, crafts and great Thai cuisine, as well as demonstrations of Thai dancing and Thai boxing will be there for all to enjoy. Free admission as well. CASTLE FIELD, Southsea, Sunday 14th August from 11.00 am. www.bangkoksouthsea.co.uk.
solentlife.co.uk • AUGUST 2011 •
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DOWN 1 Person appointed to superintend (7)
4 Curved fencing sword (5)
11 A direction (4)
2 The second studio album by Richie Hawtin, or the Austrian entry at the Eurovision Song Contest 1971, or 24 hour-a-day Urdu-language music channel from Pakistan (5)
12 Dress (6)
3 Health club (3)
14 A piece of landed property (6)
4 Junkie (9)
7 A republic in southern Africa (8)
Hard Sudoku
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5 Surname of the original lead singer of Pink Floyd (7)
16 City (4) 18 An evaluator of accounts (8)
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6 Mystical creatures (5)
20 None (4)
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21 Alfred Nobel did this with dynamite (8)
13 Sedimentry, metamorphic, and _____ (7)
23 Illegal burning (5)
15 A group of A domelike gunner's enclosures (7)
24 Some pastries (5)
17 A drama that is sung (5) 19 A dial (5)
www.sudoku-puzzles.net
solutions check your answers here! COPYRIGHT
With many thanks to www.sodoku-puzzles.net for the sudoku puzzles, and www.dowedo.net for supplying the crossword puzzle. We have noticed an issue with the supplier of the sudoku puzzles over the last two issues. This has been rectified by change of supplier. Our apologies if this has affected your enjoyment of the soduko puzzles.
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• AUGUST 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
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