solentlife.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2011
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something new the guide to what’s on modern vintage weddings
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contents
welcome SEPTEMBER 2011
PARK GATE EDITION
September already; kids back to school and the summer is slipping away fast. “What summer?” I hear you ask. Yes it has been another disappointing year for that expected warm dry weather and probably worse for sun cream sales. Just maybe an Indian summer is a possibility to brighten our lives a little – but don’t take my word for it. Its time for that makeover and this month we feature both home and garden redesign, with some great ideas for both this year and getting things ready for next. Weddings with a vintage vogue are becoming popular; we have lots of ideas for a modern wedding with that period twist. For the past few months we have been following the crew of Koru – the Fastnet ladies. We have reported on their relentless journey to train, qualify and compete in one of the toughest sailing races in the calendar. Our story comes to a conclusion with a full report of their race and homecoming with some wonderful personal reflections from some of the crew. There is a full complement of our usual items, with seasonal looks at walks, nature, travel and gardens. Plus we are privileged to have met with Chris Packham to enjoy some of his stunning wildlife photography. Enjoy the coming month and the peace now that school term has got the attention of our little darlings and maybe let’s keep our fingers crossed for that Indian summer!
contactus
Solent Life Magazine Tel… 01489 583800 • Fax… 01489 583803 Online… www.solentlife.co.uk • Email… info@solentlife.co.uk WEBB HOUSE, 20 BRIDGE ROAD, PARK GATE, HAMPSHIRE, S031 7GE
theteam
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in this issue… features 12… Vintage Brides • Modern Weddings with a Vintage Twist.
15… Solent Celebrity • Solent Life meets local TV presenter and photographer, Chris Packham.
Editorial
Dave Hill – Managing Editor Tel… 01489 583743 • Email… davehill@solentlife.co.uk David Rose-Massom – Senior Journalist Email… editorial@solentlife.co.uk
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
Abby Champkin Tel… 01489 584010 Email… abby@solentlife.co.uk
Design & Production
16… We are the Champions and Sailing Queens • Simon Payne and our Fastnet Girls. 26… The Interview • Our own Managing Editor, Dave Hill 52… Education • Happy New School Year!
regulars 06… Avon calling! • Wild birds make some noise
by the River Avon
10… Artist Review • Have you seen Solent Scene? 24… Restaurant Review • Swanwick Sailors Pitstop. 36… Coast and Country • Sanctuary for prickly customers.
Design by SolentLife Email… design@solentlife.co.uk • Online… solentlife.co.uk
42… What’s On Guide • Reviews, events, theatre
Deadline for advertising copy & editorial for next issue: 16th September 2011
50… Gardening • Redesign your outdoor living space.
Publisher
74… Mindgym • try out our latest puzzles.
and music coming your way. Now is the time.
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.
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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Rhiân
Fashion House
New AutumN & Winter
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Frank Lyman Designs Now In!
A big congratulations to Alex Cook who was voted The News ‘Hair Student of the Year’.
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Alex, from Room 8 hair & beauty received the award at the The News award ceremony on Saturday 23rd July.
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She was voted in to the awards by clients of Room 8 and then had to present her portfolio of work and a write up of her hair styles to the newspaper.
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‘I’m so honoured to receive the award from The News’ said Alex. ‘I felt I had to do so well as the standard of the other students were really high.’
Ladies Lets Lunch bring ‘The MEN WOT PAY’ 2nd October at the Concorde Club What a lovely way to spend a Sunday – helping raise money for the Mayor of Fareham Charity ‘Toe in the Water’. Sandy Jones from Rhian Boutique, Warsash – is putting on another fabulous event for such a fantastic cause – our Armed Forces! 12.00pm Champagne Reception. 1.00pm Enjoy a Three Course Roast Dinner and watch fashion pass you buy – listening to Dave’s Tradd Band. Afternoon entertainment from Tom Canning (Tom Jones tribute). Tickets £49 from Rhian – come along and let your hair down.
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Alex Cook
This award is in addition to the award for ‘Student of the Year’ she received from her training college – Fareham College. During the month of September Room 8 hair & beauty are offering the first 10 clients to purchase a medium sized pair of Gold GHD’s a free GHD protection spray. Call Room 8 hair & beauty on 01489 582660 for further details.
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riverwalk
avon calling ding dong!
Even before I had retrieved the cameras from the car I watched a kestrel as it swooped down onto its prey and then behind me a heron flew inelegantly along the broad route of the River Avon. words & images • david rose-massom
P
assing through the kissing gate into the field at Ibsley, near Ringwood, I noticed it was not one but a pair of kestrels hunting; watching them hover and drop in the pursuit of prey and listening to the river as it rushed over the weir the feeling came that this was going to be a magical walk. On the banks of the river cattle grazed and supplemented their mono-menu of grass with lush greenery from the marshy shore and succulent leaves from the low and overhanging branches of a tree. On the water ducks drifted in idle contentment while just below the surface giant trout flicked their tails against the flow of the stream. Further down stream a small fleet of geese, the Canadian variety, sat motionless in still water like decoys in a hunter’s pool. Butterflies, meadow browns and whites, danced and damselflies flitted among the
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
bright and colourful splashes of wild flowers; it was the English countryside at its very best and most attractive. The beauty of the river and its surroundings was making my face ache; because of the broad smile that was fixed in place. Disappointment for a fleeting second as a sign directed the Avon Valley Footpath away from the river and across a meadow; it was only a momentary blip though as there was much adventure to be had on this trek. As I turned away from the river, almost as a farewell, a trout leapt clear of the surface with its scales reflecting a fleeting moment of bright sunshine; then an Emperor Dragonfly, bright and iridescent blue, flew across the reeds. I was reluctant to head away from the river but this was a walk-andnot-a-stand-still-and-watch-the-water day but the smile returned to my face as with each step butterflies flitted across my path and through the long grass.
A startled warbler dashed from the grass, surprised by my approach and then as I reached a tributary of the main river several willow warblers hopped around the branches of a willow tree. Sitting for a while on the rails of the bridge there were no sounds but those of the countryside; birds chattering and chirruping, bees and insects humming and buzzing and the sound of the water as it passed below me. Upstream a little way a mother coot kept a close eye on two very tiny and fluffy chicks. I adore unexpected surprises on my walks, but did not expect a formation flypast from the Red Arrows as they headed off for a display somewhere along the coast. A gravel track continued the journey away from the Avon and on route passed by some charming cottages, one with a thatched roof that drooped down as if shading the windowed eyes of the building, a field in front of the idyllic picture held a mighty oak tree and a dozen ponies grazing on rich, green grass. Another cottage, a converted
school house, had a stunning sculpture of a prancing horse alongside its gate. All around I was surrounded by the sound of creatures scurrying through the shrub and grasses; it was young pheasants darting away as my footsteps startled them but then returning to take a look at the strange human passing their way. A sound from overhead took my attention, it was the mewling cry of a buzzard; and there he was perched atop a dead tree on the opposite side of the field. Then as he leapt from his branch and swooped high above the woods a great spotted woodpecker took his place; this truly was a wildlife haven. From valley floor, riverside walk and on through meadow I was now heading into dense woodland. The path, soft with a carpet of pine needles, rose and dipped over an undulating landscape and what little sun there had been was now shaded by the thick canopy of pine trees. If there was any thought of the distance of this path then that question was answered
I adore unexpected surprises on my walks, but did not expect a formation flypast from the Red Arrows as they headed off for a display somewhere along the coast.
by a fellow walker heading toward from whence I had come, “Only another 17 miles to Christchurch.” He chimed; before telling me he had started out from Downton. Made my four-hour stroll appear insignificant, but I was enjoying myself and he seemed exhausted. Traffic to the right of me told me there was a road nearby and I finally spotted a very overgrown path through the bracken and trees that headed that way. It would have been very easy to return by the same glorious route but I wanted to walk the road and see the church of All Saints at the hamlet of Harbridge. It is not a very busy road but take care anyway, the main drag then turns right heading back to Ibsley along a narrow lane with beautiful cottages, charming farmland and preening wild rabbits. Although I was on the homeward leg as I passed over the tributary that I had crossed earlier I spotted another buzzard sitting on a fence post, down in the grass nearby a green woodpecker pecked for insects and another heron lifted off and flew away. This walk had been one of the most beautiful I had ever completed for Solent Life and wildlife had kept me company for the whole journey. Now all I needed was an ice cold pint of Guinness and a comfortable chair, lucky then that I had started my walk just a few yards away from The Old Beams public house. l
My walk began close to an old grey curved bridge which is easily spotted just a few miles from Ringwood on the road to Fordingbridge as it passes through Ibsley on the A338.
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
GOLD PRICE AT IT’S HIGHEST EVER. SILVER AT BEST PRICE SINCE 1980 RECEIVE CASH With unexpected credit card bills and cost of living increasing. Why not sell your unwanted gold and silver jewellery, Coins / Medals / Foreign Gold / Kruger Rands / Sovereigns / Pahlavi / Chinese Panda / Maple Leaf / Dental Gold. SILVER - BRITISH OR FOREIGN COINS Pre 1947 or Pre 1920 (Pre 1947 50% Silver Pre 1920 92.5% Silver) Old Cutlery / Cups / Trays Look for the the ‘lion on hallmark’, you will be surprised what treasures are tucked away. For Free Advice Phone Arthur on
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artreview
paint
&
Usually the artist review pages are given over to one, or, just occasionally, a select group of artists but this month Solent Life is previewing an entire exhibition. Not only that, this exhibition is one of mixed media, a combination of painting and photography shown side by side. words • david rose-massom
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A
nne Middleton is the organiser of many excellent exhibitions, showing many of the local artists that have been included in these pages, and she took time out from one show to speak to Solent Life about her next. “The latest exhibition to be held here at The Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is going to be slightly different to others I have organised in that it will be a mixture of paintings and photography; work from some of the best artists and photographers in the county.” She told Solent Life. “It is the first time I have held a crossover exhibition and the parameters are going to be quite strict, hence the name of the show Solent Scene.” She explained. “All the work on show must come from within the confines and boundaries of The Solent.” Anne showed a map with vertical lines drawn straight down from Portsmouth to Bembridge on the Isle of Wight on the
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
eastern side and then from Keyhaven down to Alum Bay on the island at the western end of the Solent. Anne continued to explain the brief for the artists. “Within the Solent I wanted the artists and photographers to journey up the creeks and rivers, along the shores, through the nature reserves and with a keen eye on the landscapes and seascapes as well as the flora and fauna that thrive within that area. This is a wonderful coastline and we feel this is a great way to celebrate that beauty.” “We have long wondered what the response would be to a joint exhibition and there are currently 13 photographers and 13 artists who will be displaying their work. This means there will be close to 100 pieces of work on display and available to be purchased.” As with all of Anne Middleton’s art exhibitions there will also be greeting cards, posters and prints to purchase making it affordable for all pockets. “With the date
The latest exhibition to be held here at The Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is going to be slightly different to others I have organised in that it will be a mixture of paintings and photography; work from some of the best artists and photographers in the county.
of the exhibition set to span the month of September and into October, it will also be a great time to buy early Christmas presents.” Anne added. “Exponents of both genres have really embraced the idea of the crossover show; plus they love the concept of working within the Solent.” “With all the work to be included in the show now accepted, I have been looking for a good interpretation of life along the Solent, not the commercial aspect or the warships, but hopefully the less-known Solent such as the creeks and rivers, the backwaters and especially the sunrises and sunsets. I personally love the images of sunsets. It must be artistic and it has to be the artist’s interpretation of this wonderful and diverse area.” “I have lived on or near the Solent for all of my married life and I have walked its edges, sailed along its length and I love the sunsets and the colours, it is an artists’ palette
waiting to be turned into amazing art forms.” Access and entry to the exhibition are free, and there is also the opportunity to enter the gardens for the normal entry fee and enjoy the colours and plant displays as it moves from summer into autumn. As an added bonus for art lovers there will also be the last few weeks of Art in the Garden; now in its 12th year it is probably one of the country’s most exciting exhibitions of contemporary sculptures. Over 100 magnificent pieces of work are spread throughout the gardens. l
Solent Scene is also a very special exhibition for Solent Life as a select panel of our editorial team will be judging the work of the artists and awarding the Best Image in Show title. The winning painter or photographer will then be our featured artist for the October edition of your favourite magazine. A special version of the double-page layout
will also be framed and presented to the winner. For details of the Solent Scene exhibition go to www.hilliergardens.org.uk where in the What’s On section of their website it will detail the stunning exhibition of painting and photography featuring Hampshire’s beautiful Solent. Framed originals and a wide selection of unframed paintings, prints and greetings cards will be on sale. Solent Scene – Saturday 3rd September to Sunday 2nd October – Free admission
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 • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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weddingideas
brides
More and more brides are looking to the past for their wedding inspiration; vintage and retro appears to be the fashion for today.
words & images • david rose-massom
O
ne location for buying that stylish, vintage dress may surprise you when searching on-line, Oxfam! Probably not your first port of call but a recent look at the website had seven stunning retro dresses that any fashionable bride would look great in – and with the bonus of being a budget price. If you want to burst the budget though and look like a bride who has stepped from the pages of Vogue then a trip to Bloomsbury in London will be on the cards as you call in at the Vintage Wedding Dress Company. But somewhere between the two will be a budget and design to suit your greatest desire. It is not just the dresses that are making retro-weddings de-rigour as couples keeping with the trend are going the whole
nine-yards for the complete by-gone era wedding package. Back in the days of your Grandparents nuptials they had no choice but to marry on a tight budget as post war posterity was not a thing of choice. Surprisingly it seems to be part of the fun with this new fashion trend. There are websites where ideas for vintage wedding invites and stationary are available, and free; and there are also sites for stylish but retro wedding gift lists. The dress, possibly from Oxfam but still featured on the 1950s pages of Vogue, has been picked. The gift list has included retro toasters and floral pattern, Sunday best china and then there is the car, or will you go even further back in time with a horse drawn carriage. The vintage Rolls Royce, large and highly polished, the Jaguar E-Type with the top down and wind in the hair, or, as was voted
best car for the retro wedding in the offices of Solent Life, the Jaguar Mk 10, sleek, wide, flat and glamorous. Not only do companies such as the Sussex based Vanilla Splits have the classic cars for hire, if you would also like a retro style honeymoon, why not hire a wonderful VW camper van and take your first mornings as a married couple slowly, cooking breakfast in your camper with fantastic views across the English countryside or the ancient coastlines of Devon and Cornwall. If retro and vintage are your thing, then there are plenty of websites and information available to make your wedding a little different, a lot more fun and although you will be taking your guests and your marriage back to a different era you will be doing it with panache and in the height of fashion. l Useful websites oxfam.org.uk/Shop thevintageweddingdresscompany.com weddingstationeryphotos.co.uk vanillasplits.com horseandcarriages.co.uk
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
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solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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Etikett Etikett is a unique boutique for babies and children. Something for everyone, beautiful clothing for those looking for something special. Also quality baby and childrenswear at affordable prices. Large selection of bridesmaids, page boys, boysuits and Christeningwear in stock. T: 01489 785829 Etikett, Botley Square.
Posh Hair & Beauty Situated in Hedge End Village we offer all Hair & Beauty services at competitive prices, including the fabulous Shellac Gel Polish. We are currently offering a FREE cut and finish with every hair colour booked or 10% off any other treatment. T: 01489 798182
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Charisma Charisma of Fawley is THE destination if your son or daughter is getting married. We specialise in wedding outfits for the Mother of the Bride and Groom, with styles from young and modern to classic chic and prices from £149 to £800. School Road,Fawley Village Southampton SO45 1EA T: 02380 894500 W: www.charismafashions.com
solentcelebrity
chris
packham Moors Valley Country Park over the years has played host to some stunning wildlife photographic exhibitions, its latest however has somewhat of an extra draw. The photographer for this exhibition is a popular TV presenter, highly popular, who says he dislikes photography. words & images • david rose-massom
A
s he opened the exhibition of his stunning wildlife images Chris Packham described it as hanging a few ‘tatty’ photos. “I don’t like photography very much because I find it too disappointing an experience.” He told Solent Life. “But I am drawn to it!” “Trying to take ‘new’ pictures of wildlife is very difficult but that is my purpose rather than copying the work of others.” Chris continued and spoke quickly as his passion for wildlife could not help but force its way through. “I spend more time in the planning than taking the photos, or before I even think of firing the shutter on the camera. I have to go out with a purpose and with a plan!” He finds himself becoming totally engrossed in the subjects. “I have to work on what I am focussed on at that moment; such as recently I have been working on a series of images of damselflies and you have to be hyper-critical of your work to get closer to that perfect image.” Chris explained that
he had five days worth of images to sort through, but work had encroached and he could not wait to get back to picking the best; as well as hoping that he had ‘the shot’. “I photograph wildlife because that is what I love!” It is that simple as far as he is concerned. Looking around the exhibition it is clear to see that Chris Packham has a great skill as well as a passion for the subject, and yet he does find it very easy to talk down his skill and the quality of his photographs. “I have to take something new from the subject and make it communicable to the person looking at it.” It is vital with every image that Chris gets some sort of message across to the viewer. “And to take that ‘perfect’ picture you need control over every aspect of the subject. In taking the photos of the damselflies I needed to ensure that they landed on the reed in front of me and not any of the other five nearby, so you tie down the others so it has only one to land on.” “I much prefer to photograph British wildlife
but the only time I seem to get is in the winter and that means I must work a great deal overseas. Taking these images is a personal process and some of the photographs I keep to myself and don’t show to anyone as they become precious to me.” As we sat and talked for a moment I asked about his love of the hornet, nature’s version of the F16 fighter plane. “I like them because they are beautiful, vicious, predators that are much maligned.” It was obvious this was another of his great passions, the underdog of the wildlife world. “There are some 4,000 wasps in a nest and with the hornet just 200, so it does everything it can to stay alive to enable their nest to stay active. A few wasps die and it makes little difference; a few hornets could mean the end of the nest; it would be decimated.” “I have been head-butted by hornets, I have even had them bite me with their mandibles, but never stung, it is not in their best interest so they will do almost anything other than sting.” Finally talk returned to his photography. “I analyse all pictures, mine and other photographers, it is a learning process, it’s not a negative thing but a positive experience; you have to make mistakes before you can get it right. This process saves time again before I even get to close the shutter! I need the images to communicate with me.” l
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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solent‘life’
on the shirt tails of the
gods “You never lose it, once you have been World Champion you will always have been a World Champion!” Simon Payne said as he spoke to Solent Life. This is a man who has not been the champion of the world just once, he is a double champion and he is planning on making it a triple next year.
means some sort of arrested development. It must be to want to go out and beat others in sport all the time!” What was it like to be a World Champion? “It words & images • david rose-massom dawns on you that you are best at just that regatta, the he first time of winning the World one where you get to win the championship. Moth sailing championships was After winning I looked at the trophy and did the best; because once it was won feel like its custodian, and it was a lovely there was a sense of relief.” He said feeling.” An understatement I am sure as we sat chatting in a waterside pub on from a man who does not boast about his Hayling Island. “When I was younger I sailed achievements. in the UK Youth Squads and even tried for Did it change anything for him? “With the Olympics – but then I met a girl, married success you attract sponsors and you and just slipped into playing golf.” become about brand delivery and so your “After 15 years of marriage, as it does for many people, it led to divorce and then there sponsors then have to get good PR and that becomes my responsibility and a duty.” He was the questions of where do I live and said. “It does then, in some ways, become what do I do?” He admitted. “So I moved work and there is more to it than just getting to Emsworth so that I could take my boys the boat on the water. Some of the frivolity sailing. I was at a point when I should have of sailing is gone and I have to perform well given up sailing and concentrated on work, when I am out on the boat, racing.” but I gave up work and concentrated on In the recent National Championships held sailing - and, it was a brilliant way of living!” in Gosport’s Stokes Bay, Simon did not “With the divorce etc., life did not feel good perform as well as at past race series. “To be and it was quite a dark time, but winning honest I did not really want to be there and races changed that, it kept me going and was ill prepared. I had just finished back-tobrightened things. I had been working back races and was tired. I had been in three hard so had saved a little nest egg which world championships; in Portland Oregon, allowed me to live the life of a sailor.” Simon Sydney Australia and Dubai as well as two continued. “I had worked for a toilet tissue European events and all in just 18 months.” company, it’s a fascinating product, but it “I just wanted to do some testing of different is dull. When I eventually had to return to kit on my boat. I have always been a good, work, I returned to something a lot more natural sailor but then someone gets quicker interesting.” than you and you need to test yourself and The Moth, the class of sailing craft that your gear to get the best from everything.” Simon excels in, is sailed single handed and “I have had chance to work on all that now riding high from the water on hydrofoils it is and I feel really fast again. You can go racing, a tricky boat to sail and sail well. “It is like a but your skills have to come from training nautical motorbike, and when I get on the and practice or you will just get slower.” water it leaves all troubles and problems Simon explained. “To me it’s about project behind.” management; I want to win the Worlds in “To want to win all the time probably
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Lake Garda, in Italy next year. If I never win a Nationals event or an open race series again it does not matter, its about winning the Worlds in Garda. It is my favourite place to sail; I won the Europeans there in 2005. I also love it as a place to visit.” “I am at an age now where I need to enjoy the venue as well. ” Simon is a very young and very fit 47. “It is about mind, body and spirit, so if I can sit between race series and enjoy a cappuccino in beautiful surroundings then it is all part of it. It is about having the right kit and knowing how to use it and get the best from it – you need to be at one with the equipment.” “Things happen really quickly on a Moth so you have to be very aware and almost operate on automatic. Sailing is just about me, there has to be a certain amount of being selfish to succeed. I am not the most talented on the water; I am probably not the fittest, but I am probably the strongest mentally! A friend described me as a streetfighter on a sea full of boxers!” Simon seemed to enter another zone as he described sailing a Moth. “I love the technicality of Moth racing, and it is the yacht category that everyone wants to take part in at the moment; I love the fitness levels and the speed. Sometimes when you are rocketing across the water there is nothing better, it is like riding along on the shirt tails of the gods.” Simon described one stunning moment when sailing in a race on Lake Garda. “I was sailing along the course and a sea eagle swooped right down in front of me and then flew along the same line as me. It got to the point where I had to make a decision; follow the eagle or tack on the sailing course.” Simon is a professional, he chose the race line. l If you want to know more, follow Simon Payne’s blog on sipayne.blogspot.com Simon Payne is sponsored locally, among others, by Meridien Milano Abarth. Meridien Milano Portsmouth, 111 Havant Road, Drayton, Portsmouth, PO6 2AH Tel: 08433 204437 Web: abarth@meridien.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. Christmas Party Menu Lunch & Dinner. Book now for Christmas Eve & New Years Eve Parties. Open on Christmas Day Menus & prices on our website
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solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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adventure
prowess IT’S ALL ABOUT THAT ROCK
girl
It seems hard to believe that four months ago three women, none of whom looked as if they could fight their way out of a paper bag, were sitting in the Solent Life offices and were telling us of a dream to take an all-woman crew racing in one of the world’s toughest and most dangerous yacht races. We had just been introduced to the crew of Koru, a 36 foot yacht based in Gosport; a crew who would have to train together, qualify together and then take on luck and the elements together in the hope of just finishing the race. This is the final chapter of the story and the amazing achievement of the women of KORU. words & images • david rose-massom THE FASTNET RACE The challenge and pre-race thoughts from Penny Priddy
T
he Fastnet Lighthouse, known as the The Teardrop of Ireland, was the last sight of Ireland for emigrants sailing to America. The Fastnet rock stands proudly 4.5 miles southwest of Cape Clear and southwest of Mizen Head. There are two pinnacles of hard clay shale with veins of quartz rising to a height of 30m, above low-water mark, surrounded by deep water and frequented by whales… soon to be joined by many yachts!!! One named KORU. Preparations… by now Koru will have been checked and tested from bow to stern, mast head to under the keel, internally and
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externally; riggers and marine electricians dutifully working under the watchful eye of skipper Jannine. Rae has been making and baking more delicious food for us, she is a wonder woman with her culinary skills. Kit bags packed and repacked, water proof pillow cases meticulously packed with essential dry clothes, travel towels (that resemble large chamois leathers) squeezed inside the one spare pair of shoes. Then my final check on kitting up, I resemble a mixture of a member of the S.B.S, a lost coal miner and a bank robber. I just always wear my warm balaclava whilst sailing and of course for sleeping; avoiding heat loss from the head. I have studied charts, tidal
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
atlases, followed numerous weather sites on the internet, followed by calculations and predictions but nothing is guaranteed and we shall be in the hands of the elements. Vannessa and Linda have dutifully assisted everyone with sea sickness remedies, Sara for ever making us such welcome hot drinks, Clare keeps us amused with her never ending stories, and Chloe; wonder weather woman! Jannine, what better a skipper could there be. How lucky are we to have this opportunity to take on this challenge? We may not be professionals, or even a touch experienced, but we are determined - and we respect the sea”.
FROM THE GOSPORT PONTOON… The Solent Life send-off from Royal Clarence Marina in Gosport had been a great affair, a warm day, a great BBQ, jazz band playing and the girls of Koru singing ‘Sailing Queens’ their re-worded version of the ABBA song Dancing Queen. Applauding them were a crowd, well over 100 strong, of family, friends and Solent Life readers (thank you), the only long faces to be seen were those of the sailors on other vessels who drifted off toward Cowes with not even a solitary wave from the marina wall! At around 6.30 that evening, we waved off the eight-strong crew of determined women, as they pulled away from their pontoon the evening before the start of their big adventure. It was a magical send-off.
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adventurecontinued Four and a half days later, after around four hours of driving, and much laughter during the journey, three of the Solent Life team stood by the harbour wall in Plymouth. As the sun set, we watched race yacht after race yacht arrived, battle weary, but safe after rounding the Fastnet. Trust women to keep us waiting! It had been a pleasant evening drive to Plymouth and then we waited… and waited. Looking out into the darkness, midnight had long gone by, we watched as mast head navigation light after light slowly drifted into view. Beneath the masts tired but elated crews were greeted with loud cheers from the Crew Bar where sailors already in port enjoyed a well earned drink and appreciated the efforts of those that followed. Every few minutes we left our marina-side perch and went into Rolex Fastnet race HQ to check their progress on the computer tracking system. Finally at 1.30am Koru crossed the finish line, but still we had to
BACK HOME… Crew member Sara Banks is a super-mum to three children 15, 14 and 12 years of age and back in Gosport she told her story of the adventure. “My children are really proud of me, I got a text at the start of the race from them saying, ‘Go for it Mum, so proud of you.’ Sara said as she relaxed for the first time in almost a week. Her first memory was of the finish. “For an hour at the finish we were all doing just one knot, 50 or 60 boats coming together all around us and all we could see were the navigation lights on their masts. But, it was all in total silence from us and the other boats, it was like an alien film, and we were all holding our collective breath hoping for wind and still being fiercely competitive.” Sara had been sailing for two years prior to this adventure. “I had done some corporate sailing and did a Start Yachting course and worked my way up to Day-Skipper.” She explained. “Now the whole family have been on sailing holidays and the kids also have reached Competent Crew; so it’s something we all do together. I was looking on the
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wait another 40 minutes for them to reach the yacht-packed marina. The finish line of Rolex Fastnet Race was becoming so busy that organisers had to use three different marinas; suddenly we were told that Koru would be at a mooring in a different Marina. Now we had a race of our own as we leapt into cars and hurried around half of Plymouth to get to the pontoon for the girls’ arrival. Thankfully we all arrived at the same time and the cheers from the small crowd of friends, family and a small dog echoed across the pitch black of the harbour. After four days and 14 hours of racing, around 112 hours of sailing and 47 hours of night-sailing, Koru was tied alongside; hugs exchanged, champagne burst open, sprayed and drunk, and tales of daring, dolphins and danger were told. We quickly discovered that shortly before they rounded the Fastnet Rock their race and adventure had been in deep jeopardy. The batteries, that keep the navigation
equipment and lights working, were draining and the engine had been started (allowed under race rules for safety) and the batteries revived, until the engine began overheating. Skipper Jannine was quickly into the engine bay cutting away a coolant hosepipe and refitting it. Imagine the situation, the boat is rising and falling in busy seas, the skipper’s head is deep into the engine compartment with all the smells of overheated engine and oils, not only were the conditions of working tough, she had to battle the nausea and sickness as well – for one and a half hours. Job done, Koru’s race was saved and every crew member used the phrase – ‘heroic’; about their skipper’s leadership. Finally on the quayside they could happily tell us all of their amazing adventure and we all felt as if we were a small part of their amazing story.
internet back in the autumn, interested but not thinking I would have time. My husband, Nigel, phoned Jannine and discovered there was room on the crew for me. It had begun!” At the start off of Cowes, her heart was racing. “It was a warming farewell at the start because we had so many friends out on boats to see us off, it was very emotional and then the gun sounded and we were off!” “We had been counting down the time in readiness for crossing the start line and we were among some of the giants of yacht racing such as Dee Caffari who was just a few feet away from us.” The fixed smile broadened even further as Sara recalled the start. “The whole thing was WOW we are here!” “It has been an adventure, all the way. As we left the Solent we saw dismasted yachts being dragged back to Cowes which was a bit of a reality bite and then in the Irish Sea when the waves were massive and we were getting tired, we would just switch jobs to get through it.” Her thoughts were jumping from race experience to race experience. “I was asleep when they spotted the first
dolphin.” Sara had never seen one in the wild. “They got me up to see them and we had them dancing around the hull for days which really lifted any spirits that may have been dropping.” “The Rock looked just as it did in all the pictures we had seen, it was a beautiful morning with blue skies and the night before had been really clear with shooting stars flying overhead.” “It was fantastic as we sailed past other boats, then our speed dropped and it was a different part of the race, we would tiptoe around the boat trying to keep her moving at maximum speed. At The Lizard we came in at an angle and we were flying among a mixture of big boats, it was serious racing and we were flying past so many boats. Then there was a beam of light across the finish line to enable the race organisers to read our race number. Suddenly the gun went off and we were over the finish line.” “We were safe, there was a massive sense of achievement and it had been an adventure; an adventure with many different elements to it.” Sara said finally.
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
CAPTAINS LOG…
and joined us. Then it all just started to happen and it was amazing.” Jannine Stoodley may have been the “As we were nearing home we passed the skipper, but it was also her first Fastnet. Lizard and all the girls came on watch to “Even before leaving the start I was worried help us keep the boat moving and there about gear failure and suddenly realised this were about 60 boats around us but we was not going to be a walk in the park.” She were moving up the rankings.” A little local said as the sun shone down on us in Gosport, know how helped them pass a few more where we had said goodbye to Koru the competitors. “Emma and Clare with their week before. “Then the jib sheet just ripped local knowledge took us very close to the away, but we had to keep going.” rocks and we just kept going, the crew were “Out of the Solent and we headed south amazing, nobody moved from the rail and to avoid the tidal wind at Portland and we nobody shifted their weight, they even took knew the wind would veer and allow us to their hot chocolates on the rail. We just kept come back in toward the coast.” going; stealth sailing!” “As we rounded Lands End it got a little “The whole crew have made me feel so uncomfortable as we heard that the big proud.” Jannine said with a smile that had boys were passing us on their way back in been stuck on her face since their arrival at toward the finish. Everyone was getting tired the pontoon in Plymouth. “I just feel really and there was sickness. Then we had a major proud of the journey we have all been on. problem.” It has been a personal challenge for me “We were running the engine to charge the as well and taken me right out from my batteries and suddenly there was a smell comfort zone; it has been an amazing of burning rubber coming from the engine adventure!” and we had to sort it out because if not we “For me the greatest joy has been to see how would have to turn back and retire before our race has inspired so many people. I had night fell.” Jannine explained. “The engine no idea how many people were following our was too hot to work on and so I had to take progress and wishing us on. It has provided a power-nap before I could work on it. I was such a ‘lift’ in these times of negative newsthen down in the bilges with the bucket both to sailors and non sailors alike; just alongside me because I was being so ill amazing. I know we could not have had the down there. A coolant hose had collapsed result we did without great teamwork-both at one end, which meant I had to cut it away onboard and even more importantly with and reattach it. If the collapse had been in the team ashore who helped to get us to the middle of the hose then we would have the start line. The ‘behind the scenes’ team had no option but to pull out.” deserve the biggest congratulations – “Our low point of the race was down off we had ‘top notch’ food to keep us going the Scillies as we were following the sailing throughout, Koru was ready for her race – instructions which were to keep eight miles it all slotted into place – a huge thank you south of them, we were really low as the to all!” wind dropped and boats were passing inside of us. That is when the dolphins appeared
Sailing
Solent Life would like to thank the following for their help with the features and support of Koru and her crew… Dream or Two – the sailing business that put this dream together and brought it to reality. White Dog Gallery or the printing and framing of the Koru prize print Pussers Rum for the donation of a fine decanter of ‘Nelson’s Blood’ their best rum awarded to best crew member during the race, which was Clare Pengelly. G’s Wine Bar and Restaurant for joining Solent Life in hosting the excellent farewell party for Koru. Berkeley Homes and Janine Leadbeater for their support and help with the Farewell Party GP Sails – Grant and Lindsay Piggott who made a new mainsail in double quick time and fabulous spray dodgers for Solent Life and Koru And finally, from all at Solent Life to the crew and shoreside team of Koru for allowing us four wonderful, exiting, extraordinary and emotional months as we followed your journey.
with Dream or Two-whatever your dream, you can make it happen!
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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Tandoori Restaurant 25 Shore Road, Warsash
Open Sunday To Thursday 12 noon - 2.00pm & 5.30pm - 11.30pm FRiday & Saturday 12 noon - 2.00pm & 5.30pm - Midnight
T: (01489) 573110 or 582226 THREE COURSE LUNCH £5.95
Fully Refurbished Exciting new menu
Jonathan Armstrong the new landlord at… The Ferryman in Warsash Jonathan recently arrived here in the Solent Life area to become the landlord of this local hostelry. Originally from Surrey he learned his trade from an old fashioned couple of publicans, and has travelled the world working in pubs and bars of all different shapes and sizes. Jonathan has strong feelings about what makes a good local pub and is a big fan of traditional real ale. He has spent the last six years or so running two London pubs , one in the City frequented by ‘suits’ and another in an area with a high population of students and hospital workers. He was fortunate enough to have his pub entered in the CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) Good Beer Guide and came second in the North London Pub of the Year competition. At the Ferryman Jonathan intends to ensure that traditional real ale is well promoted and keeps a constantly changing selection of guest beers as well as a few favourites as standard. He believes that his selections will suit all seasons and all palates. Jonathan does not claim to be a chef but is a real fan of good food. He is keen to ensure that the food served at the Ferryman is different from the bland tasting mass produced food prevelant in some pub chains. He strongly believes that good food, can and should ,be made in house from fresh, local and seasonal produce where possible and that there is a huge difference in quality and taste when this happens and he is happy to tell us that all the food at the Ferryman is homemade from a regularly updated menu. Join Jonathan at the Ferryman for a well kept pint, a glass of wine from their extensive wine list or a well cooked meal. He is looking forward to meeting you.
Good well kept traditional ales wine list TO COMPLIMENT OUR Excellent real food SERVED Sunday-Thursday 12-9pm Friday & Saturday 12-10pm (booking advisable)
HOME COOKED SUNDAY LUNCH THREE COURSES £11.95
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☎ 01489 573088 Warsash Village, SO31 9HX FRES H MEAT S U PPLIED BY R.OWTON
solentlife.co.uk solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER • JUNE 2011 •
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restaurantreview
Velsheda’s
bistro
Two young and lanky lads looking uncomfortable in suits two sizes too big for them attempted to bulk up by tucking into plates of Velsheda’s well loved all day breakfast while a Swedish sailing team building up strength ready for the Fastnet Race crowded round their tables with tall glasses of cold beer and plates full with chunky fries and towering beef burgers. It was lunchtime in one of the best located restaurants in the Solent Life area. words & images • david rose-massom
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he sun broke through the thick blanket of cloud that had covered the Hamble all morning and it reflected like diamonds on the swift flowing river and from the brightwork of chrome on a thousand yachts lining the pontoons. Velsheda’s, a bistro and bar, is part open-air decking, part canvas covered decking, part lounge bar with deep comfortable leather couches and part restaurant and it sits in a Bursledon marina and totally suits its location. It is frequented by boaties and yachties, of course it is, but it is also has families, couples, singles and locals among its clientele. In fact it is a bar and dining room for all and sundry; ideal for morning coffee, afternoon tea and lunches any day of the week. Velsheda’s moniker is taken from the racing yacht ‘Velsheda’, a ‘J’ Class thoroughbred
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racer that took its name as an amalgam of original owner Stephenson’s three daughters, Velma, Sheila and Daphne. A yacht with the most beautiful lines she raced with, and against, some of greatest names in classic yachting. Rebuilt, she still sails and is one of the most amazing sights on the water when under full sail. She was built by Camper & Nicholson at Gosport in 1933 for the owner of the Woolworth chain of shops. Maybe the bar and bistro does not have the same classic lines but it is still filled with the passion of yachting and its history, and yet it is a venue that is just as comfortable for those that have no feelings whatsoever for boats. It does have great view across and down the river though and there are few people who cannot be moved by a sunny day down on the Hamble. But what of the food I hear you say, enough about the venue! Well of course that’s good as well or it would not be getting featured in these pages. My colleague, Janet, and I drove down the hill into Bursledon from our Park Gate office looking for an escape from the taskmaster, our editor and Velsheda’s was the perfect location for an hour’s respite. One look at the menu and Janet called immediately for whitebait, for me it was the more delicate prawns wrapped in filo pastry from the specials board. Oh, one word of warning, take an appetite with you. The whitebait are crisply coated and served
with a tangy tartare sauce, they crunch to the bite and are fresh to the taste buds, as are all the fish dishes. The food is freshly prepared, locally sourced where possible and handled with care. My prawns were hidden in long tapers of crisp, clean filo pastry and once dipped into the pot of chilli sauce and bitten through they were a delight to eat as well as delightful on the eye. The pastry flaked easily to the bite and then the fleshy prawn ‘popped’ between my teeth; a nice combination of gentle flavours and great textures. Then the added bonus of the chilli bite came along to complete the deal. Both starters were finger food at its very best, perfect for a lunchtime break and a friendly chat; in fact the flavours were so good they still came through over an indepth discussion about the shocking season finale of an American TV cop drama that had been aired the previous evening and enjoyed by both Janet and me. Main courses were placed on the table, my dining partner’s eyes widened and her smile broadened with the comment of “How do you want your ham; one lump or two?” Her ham, egg and chips, simple fare, but well served and attractive on the plate had thick slabs of tasty Wiltshire ham, two perfectly cooked eggs and chunky chips. No skinny pommes frites in this restaurant! Two minor complaints from that side of the table, the chips although properly cooked,
could have been just a little crisper. This at magazine headquarters. would have made the fluffy insides even Here at Solent Life we have been using more of a contrast. And Janet, being a hen Velsheda’s since it first opened a few years keeper and egg expert, pointed out they ago and its standards have never wavered. were not free-range eggs; something we Over time the decking was added which both prefer. That said however she tucked made the al-fresco dining even more in with relish and enjoyed every mouthful. enjoyable. And for any lunchtime through My dish was also simple fare, but one that summer, autumn and winter what better can be great or a disaster. The chilli and rice location than being on the waterfront eating was great. Fat and fluffy light rice mixed hearty food from an eatery that cares about well with the deep coloured chilli which had tastes, textures and standards. l just the right amount of spiciness. It smelled good and spicy, it was served piping hot and there was a very pleasant VELSHEDA’S BISTRO bite from the fresh green and red chillies that were in the mix adding Food at Velsheda’s is excellent value for money colour as well as taste. It was not with our two-course lunches both costing too hot; restaurants do have to around £14 a head. Best value though is the be wary of every taste, so not so all-day breakfast, known as A Velsheda’s, at hot that diners would be reaching just £6.95. As a footnote, a day later I called for the fire extinguisher but more in again for lunch and ordered the Tempura like making the cheeks blush with Battered Vegetables with a sweet chilli sauce warmth. and they were an absolute triumph, crispy and On other tables towering burgers full flavoured; highly recommended. And, as a were being devoured with cheese plus, Velsheda’s owner Natalie assured me that melting down the sides of the thick the eggs would be free-range in the future. patties of meat; while another diner No need to book, just drop in and enjoy the battled with Moby Dick wrapped food and company, you will discover it is also in a crisp batter. Behind us spotted one of the friendliest restaurants around. dick and custard, individual and Velsheda’s Bistro, Swanwick Marina, delicious looking cheesecakes and a Swanwick, SO31 1ZL nice selection of other desserts were Tel: 01489 885745 being served; but it was time for us to head back to the frenzied activity
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theinterview
the
interview
Due to unforeseen commitments, our planned subject was unavailable for The Interview for this month. However, the rest of the team at Solent Life realised we had an ideal candidate right on our doorstep – who not only has an influence on the local community but is motivated by the people and passions within it; the Editor of Solent Life, Dave Hill. words & images • david rose-massom
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olent Life is something that I have come to quite recently; its concept was borne into fruition more than six years ago, it is still most avidly supported by founder, owner and publisher Nick Clench. Nick has always impressed the need for Solent Life to have, what he calls, a signature, a recognisable identity that is unique to Solent Life, even through change.” Dave Hill explained as he sat in his office, nervous of being in unfamiliar territory, being grilled by his Senior Journalist. “Our reason for being is to bring an inspirational lifestyle magazine to the community but the difference is that we
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
have two things that separate us from the others in a similar field. Firstly, we pride ourselves on quality, readable and informative features relevant to the area. This in turn gives us our second attribute which is a huge readership; this provides the ability to present a platform to showcase the products and services offered by businesses and organisations from around the region.” Although the aim is to keep the style, content and products aspirational for our readers, Dave also wants it to be realistic. “There are many publications that concentrate on the high end, elite products that will only reach the few; and although we
are an aspirational magazine we do try not to go down the route of the unachievable or unreachable – well not too often anyway, there is always some room for dreaming” Having now been with Solent Life for almost a year, Dave Hill has a solid idea of what type of publication it should be. “There are, of course, two sides to the magazine. On one side there is the readership, the audience if you like; while the flip-side is about our advertisers.” He said. “Whilst we are a commercial operation with all the normal overheads such as rent, wages and production costs, which can only be paid for with the advertising revenue, the whole concept has been about making this a free magazine that offers the advertiser more than just a space on a page!” “We believe that Solent Life has the largest and most appropriate audience and by that I mean that we are welcomed and treasured each month in homes across the region, we are read by the whole family and retained to be re-read and used long after other publications are discarded.” “The reality is that there are 20 or so other magazines in the area that offer inexpensive advertising space on a page of wall-to-wall advertisements that seem to offer very little readable content” He continued. “It is our engaging features that draw the reader to our magazine, and we endeavour to maintain an equal amount of space for advertisements and editorial features. Over the past year, we have evolved the magazine from its early style to widen its appeal – and from the feedback we receive, we have been very successful. ” “I have immense pride not only in our end-product and in the changes that have been brought about by a superb team effort but I am also proud of the team that create our publication and who are as passionate and committed about what we do every month as I am.” “When the magazine arrives from the printers each month the office is filled with smiles bought about by that pride as they scan through the pages. That said, within moments there is also critical appraisal about how we can continue to improve and what we should have done differently.” “Because it is usually of a positive nature and although we cannot please everyone all the time, we enjoy immensely the feedback we get from our readers and advertisers. The fact they take the time to contact us is a compliment to our work anyway, but we always appreciate a pat on the back or that little bit of criticism (which of course is seen by us as feedback) when we do get it wrong.” Before Dave Hill joined Solent Life his career had been in selling and delivering
international IT solutions to multinational corporations and he had no experience of the publishing world. Over the ensuing months he has worked at and learnt his craft. As he sits behind his cluttered desk, the sure sign of a busy editor, in his broad, pink braces that loop down over a striped shirt he looks every inch the weary and pressured editor. In the office we are certain his swept back mop of greying hair has turned even whiter as the months have passed. As Senior Journalist it is my task to be devil’s advocate so I asked the boss why are we not more confrontational with our features. “We could be a little more hard-hitting if we chose to go down that route and confront the more controversial issues affecting our region and maybe take up the cudgels against things we feel need addressing. There are several aspects to this; firstly, there are newspapers and their supplements to take up that mantel, and they do that very well. Another reason is that we are a monthly publication and often by the time we have addressed current affairs issues – they are old news. And finally, the world seems to be full of bad news or sensationalism and is thrust at readers at every turn. We offer some relief from that and want to offer a calm, relaxing and enjoyable experience to our readers.” Dave explained. It is tough to get him talking but once he begins it is just as hard keeping up with him as his passion for the magazine and business rises to the surface. “We, as a magazine, are more about promoting the good things in the Solent Life area and the positives. We like writing about the people among us who inspire, those who have done well and deserve to be applauded such as the ladies who are sailing Koru in the Fastnet Race.” “Since I joined almost a year ago now we have re-designed the magazine and also focused more on the content to make it even more about the community but we have never lost our original reason for being. We are about opening doors and helping readers understand more about the area, such as with The Interview which has featured the Chief Constable, the Vice Chancellor of Portsmouth University and the head of the Chamber of Commerce among others, where the subjects have a huge influence over the communities where they work and live. In doing this maybe we too have an influence over that community through our pages.” “We aspire to get the whole community involved in what is going on around them.
One of the other things this has made me realise is that it is about the power of collaboration between us, local businesses and local councils as well as between business to business contacts; we have realised that so much more can be achieved when not having to just operate alone. Outside of the magazine, we work behind the scenes with community leaders, business associations etc, to find ways of promoting trade, collaborations and developing areas,” “Our greatest pride though comes from reporting the inspirational among us such as our armed forces, our charity workers, our driven young people and those who have just excelled at the arts or in business; there is someone every month that leaves us feeling as if we have done something to help their cause.” Asked about the difficult aspects of the job Dave replied “Not so much difficult as challenging, are the perceptions that so many businesses have about advertising. Of course it is a subject of specific interest for us because it is our lifeblood. Advertising is a vehicle for great success if done properly, but needs to be planned and understood. Successful businesses budget and plan properly, select the medium with the right audience for their product and treat it as a strategic part of selling. It is my intent to try and bring some insight to our business community about the complexities, the variables and how to select the right partner and the best value (and value is not cost) to their advertising” Asked about the future Dave said “We try not to stand still for too long and as a good friend of ours once told us, you can’t shrink to success. With this firmly in our minds and with our success, support and encouragement in time of recession, we are proud to be announcing our latest venture and the imminent launch our new magazine ‘Living Coast’ that will be available in areas adjacent to the ‘Solent Life’ distribution area. We sincerely thank our supporters, advertisers and readers and assure them of our wish to continue developing successful relationships and an interesting read.” l
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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Put the 1st or 2nd October in your diary for a visit to Wildern Leisure Centre and d.@rt Centre as we open our doors for our annual open weekend. Why not visit the site located just off junction 7 of the M27, in the centre of Hedge End village, to see what is on offer for you and the family?
The d.@rt Centre The d.@rt Centre is celebrating its 10 year anniversary! A vibrant centre that is bursting with community classes throughout the week and at weekends there is something arty, traditional and modern, for everyone. The d.@rt centre also hires out rehearsal studios and performance spaces for music, dance, and art.
Workshops are available in art, digital photography, jewellery making, drawing pottery, glass painting and cookery. Children’s art workshops are also available for the under 8’s but 8 and over can join in the intergenerational workshops as family learning is key to our weekend sessions. Book your place for just £5 per session.
Our annual Community Open weekend provides an opportunity for you to meet the d.@rt Centre staff, view the facilities and watch regular classes in action.
Whether you want to stay all day (three separate workshops) or simply for a two-hour session you will need to book, as these sessions will go very quickly!
We have chosen to start our year of celebratory activities with an emphasis on Arts and Crafts so in addition to our open doors we have the following for you to enjoy.
Details of the workshops and how to book can be found on our website www.wildern.hants.sch.uk, ring 01489 779471 or contact t.watson@wildern.hants.sch.uk for d.@rt contact details.
Saturday 1st October
Saturday 1st October and Sunday 2nd October.
Craft at the d.@rt – Craft Fair Open from 11am till 4:00pm
Open from 1pm till 5:30pm
If you are looking for that special something or ‘different’ gift we will be hosting a craft fair with local crafts people. Browse the stalls and demonstrations at your leisure and stop for a cup of Fairtrade Coffee at the d.@rt Coffee Shop.
Saturday 1st October Get Crafty at the d.@rt. - Workshops Participate in workshops 10am till 12pm, 12:30pm till 2:30pm and 3pm till 5pm Our regular crafty Saturday sessions have proved tremendously popular and Open Day will give you the chance to take two hour one off workshop sessions with our resident experts.
Art at the d.@rt - Art Exhibibition Celebrating the work of local artists, the d.@rt Centre is hosting a weekend art exhibition. Admire, stimulate a new interest or maybe rekindle a latent talent, find out more about the artists and where they learn their craft, or find a new piece of art for your home. There will also be an art trail around the site for children (similar to a treasure hunt), a photographic competition and a display of artwork from local primary school pupils. For a full programme of activities or to see the facilities on offer visit our website at www.wildern.hants.sch.uk or look us up on Facebook at the d.@rt Centre.
Leisure Centre Wildern Leisure Centre has something for everyone so why not come along see how we can support you in learning new skills in a fun and pleasurable environment. The Leisure Centre regularly offers a variety of courses for all ages and abilities including archery, pilates, swimming lessons and sports activities. Courses towards National Pool Lifeguard Qualifications are also available. Our Open weekend will provide you with the opportunity to join in with some of our activities and view our facilities, which include a sports hall, multi-use hall, fitness suite, baby pool and main swimming pool, traditional gymnasium and extensive sports fields including a multi-use games area. Many of these are available to hire for your own private sessions!
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
The Leisure Centre remains on trend with technology in the fitness suite and members of our team will be on hand to answer questions on personal fitness. Whether you are looking to simply tone up, to lose those unwanted pounds or prepare for something different like marathon running come along for a quick chat to see what we can do for you. There will be a chance to win a fitness membership or other prizes including classes, swim sessions or court hire in one of the competitions that we will be holding during the weekend. Find out what you like and then why not sign up for membership, future courses or holiday activities
travelfeature
Eastern Coast Explorer Australia, a vast colourful country of constantly changing landscapes, so completely different to anything you will find in the Northern Hemisphere. With so much to offer from flora & fauna to just the positive can do attitude of the locals it is easy to see why it has become such a big seller for Amity World Travel. words • jeff kilby
I
f there is a problem with visiting Australia then it is the sheer size, almost impossible to see everything in one single trip. This means you need to prioritise what’s important to you and spend some time on the logistics of what can actually be fitted in to the time span you have allotted and that’s why you need to speak to an expert such as Jeff Kilby or Susan Taylor of Amity World Travel. One of the most popular itineraries is a combination of road and rail along the Eastern Coast, this works for both first time visitors wishing to see Sydney and the Reef as well as those looking for something new, with opportunities to break the rail journey at the Whitsundays and Fraser Island amongst others. Where better to start your adventure than Sydney; this exciting and vibrant city always has plenty to offer from breathtaking Harbour views to singing waiters at the Opera House. Sydney is always a city
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that excites and you will find that there is more than enough to keep you occupied for a week or so before taking the car and heading out of town. The 800 mile drive north to Brisbane has plenty of opportunities to break the journey and you can expect the warmest of welcomes with the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley and Port Stephens amongst the most popular stopover destinations. As you amble up the coast your time will be easily spent with bushwalking, fine dining, wine tasting, dolphin watching, surfing, in fact the list is almost endless. Handing the car back at Brisbane you will find this city very different to Sydney with its café culture and laid back lifestyle it is always worth taking a couple of days out to explore before you let the train take the strain as you head north to Tropical North Queensland. The Queenslander is a 4 star experience with 5 star food, so definitely not a time to be thinking of your waistline. This
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
all inclusive style of travel, featuring comfortable, twin-berth accommodation; fine dining in an exclusive restaurant car; and a host of special touches for a memorable experience. The journey north gives you ample time to get to know your fellow travellers and discover life the Australian way. If time allows a recommended break is at the Whitsundays where you may just think you are in paradise. With so much natural beauty on our doorstep you can snorkel or scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef, soak up the sun on Whitehaven Beach or sail around the Whitsunday Islands. You can choose to stay in one of the many beautiful island resorts or base yourself on the mainland and enjoy the fun & friendly atmosphere of Airlie Beach. The final leg of your journey will take you to Cairns and Port Douglas, you can be assured that on arrival in Cairns you will be well rested and ready for the adventure that waits in Tropical North Queensland. From the Rain Forests to the Barrier Reef, Aboriginal Culture to the Undara Lava Tubes and the Outback you can be sure that Tropical North Queensland will be the grand finale to your East Coast Experience. Whichever part of the Southern Hemisphere you may be visiting be sure to call in and speak to the experts at Amity World Travel first. l
Book with confidence at
Your Local Fully Bonded Agent 21 Night East Coast Explorer, from £2999.00 per person Includes 7 nights Sydney 5 night self drive to Brisbane 2 nights in Brisbane The Queenslander to Cairns 7 nights at Port Douglas Return flights from London with Qantas 4 star accommodation throughout. Based on 2 persons sharing twin rooms, departures up to 30 November 2011. Price is subject to availability at time of booking.
’t It ’s y ou r h olid a y so d on er th row it a wa y, y ou ’ ll n ev g et it ba ck!
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 • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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photocomp
child’s play
this months winner... Andrew Gregory
An entry in this month’s Calendar Photographic Competition is frankly, not very good, well not by the standards that have been set in previous months! There is one small difference with this image however; it was taken by three-year-old Harry Allen. words • david rose-massom
W
e know this because Harry is my grandson and he took the image with my digital Canon SLR. It is not the best image we have received, not by a long shot, but what it proves is that if a three-year-old can do it, so can other youngsters. Because he is family Harry will only be receiving the pride of his grandfather and will not be entered for the competition, plus he is not good enough yet, despite my teachings. What do you have to do to get a three-year-old to pay attention! It has been the only disappointment of this Fareham branch of London Camera Exchange sponsored competition, that we have had few entries from younger readers. When out and about with my cameras I often see youngsters taking great care with their subject matter and with the way they record the image. We have some fabulous young photographers out there, so why have we not seen your work! Parents, if you feel that your offspring have talent with a camera then encourage them to send in some of their work. We are still looking for images from October through to February that photographers may have in their collections so get your children to look through their libraries, we would love to see what they can do. There will even be a special Solent Life trophy for the best image from an under 16 year old.
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
runner up...
Harry Allen’s entry The 2012 Solent Life calendar will soon be going to print and will be on sale through our pages in plenty of time to buy as a special stocking filler for Christmas or just as a gift for yourself. Keep your images coming in, especially those for the months October through to February so that we can complete the 2012 calendar.
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
When Poor Health can Increase your Income… Recent research undertaken on lifestyle changes and medical issues shows it is now estimated that between 55% and 65% of people retiring could have a condition that might qualify for an enhanced annuity and obtain a much needed boost to their income in retirement. If you have any severe medical conditions, you may already be aware that you could be entitled to an increase in income during your retirement years, but what of the conditions and lifestyle factors that are often overlooked? Just how many people fall into this category? And it doesn’t necessarily have to be you, your spouse could qualify for enhancement too. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, high alcohol consumption and being overweight can all be taken into consideration and will sometimes qualify on their own. Coupled with occupation and post code regions, the list of acceptability for an enhancement continues to grow. Also many conditions that have been previously overlooked can now qualify for an enhanced annuity either separately, or in combination with other issues. There is now significant new evidence for medical conditions that have previously not been considered when evaluating whether someone can obtain an enhanced annuity. Conditions such as Diabetes, Asthma, Depression, Dementia and many more can all be eligible for enhanced terms (although not always independently) and this evidence shows that the majority of retirees may have conditions that could qualify. Steve Webb of Retirement and Investment Solutions says “We want to make sure everyone approaching retirement is in the best position they can be. If you are about to retire, it is vital you get the best advice. We are currently offering a Free Over 50’s Pension Review to make sure everyone is getting the very best income solution for their retirement – so if your popping a pill a day, declare it!” Call Retirement and Investment Solutions on 01489 878300 or contact via the website www.retirementis.co.uk Retirement and Investment Solutions is a trading name of Meon Valley Financial Planning Limited and is authorised and regulated by The Financial Services Authority.
> U NDER MILK WOOD
> F RANKENSTEIN
>AN EVENING OF PURE POETRY
4th SEPTEMBER at 7.30pm One night only and free entry.
>TITCHFIELD YOUTH THEATRE
>31st AUGUST – 10th SEPTEMBER
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.
>28th SEPTEMBER– 8th OCTOBER
Mary Shelley’s iconic book adapted for the stage as a victorian melodrama, echoing the nostalgia of those wonderful Hammer Horror Films.
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. UNDER MILKWOOD STARTS AT 7.30PM. MONDAY TO THURSDAY – £11. FRIDAY & SATURDAY – £13. FRANKENSTEIN STARTS 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+.
TYT starts it’s new term on Saturday 10th September. Sessions are 10.30 – 1pm and are £10.00 a session. There are places for children ages 7 to 13. Professional drama teachers with coaching in all aspects of the theatre including voice, movement and stagecraft.
BOX OFFICE 01329 556156 OR AT
www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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health&beauty
New to their list of services is the widely acclaimed Brazilian Blowdry... Kerastraight. The only recommended straightening and smoothing treatment lasting up to 4 months. The specialist Hair team provide a wealth of knowledge and are known and recommended for all forms of colouring including a full organic range and Wella professional.
50% off
50% off
Terms & conditions apply
Terms & conditions apply
The 4 beauty therapists at the Strawberry Workshop are trained in Ascot, Surrey and between them have many years experience offering a full range of beauty and spa treatments in comfortable surroundings. For Summer, smooth, refine and tone remove the lumpy orange peel effect with the renowned Technispa anti-cellulite treatment 25% off per course.
Enjoy 50% off a beauty treatment on your 1st visit
✁
Enjoy 50% off a cut and blow dry on your 1st visit
STRAWBERRY WORKSHOP .co.uk
25% off
Terms & conditions apply
Terms & conditions apply
✁
Enjoy 25% off a beauty treatment on your 2nd visit
STRAWBERRY WORKSHOP .co.uk
New for this season the team have added to their repertoire Eyelash extensions, Minx , Gelac manicures and pedicures. The Gel crystal rocks for that fantastic sparkle in the sun!
free mini manicure
Receive a free personally prescribed shampoo when you have a cut & blow dry on your 3rd visit
Receive a free mini manicure with any beauty treatment on your 3rd visit.
worth £12.50
✁
Terms & conditions apply
STRAWBERRY WORKSHOP .co.uk
Terms & conditions apply STRAWBERRY WORKSHOP .co.uk
25th Anniversary Celebration
10% off* *Not valid with any other promotion
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
STRAWBERRY WORKSHOP .co.uk
free shampoo worth £12.50
Experience the new holistic Priadara body therapy treatments!
STRAWBERRY WORKSHOP .co.uk
25% off Enjoy 25% off a cut and blow dry on your 2nd visit
✁
150 High Street | Tel: 02392 552320
The Strawberry Workshop Hair and Beauty team are celebrating their 25th Anniversary this year.The spa themed salon is fully air conditioned with a welcoming relaxing atmosphere. The team’s reputation for delivering an excellent service in a friendly happy salon is well deserved.
to thank our loyal customers valid until 30th of September 2011
✁
STRAWBERRY WORKSHOP.co.uk
STRAWBERRY WORKSHOP
☎ 01489 799958 Opening Times Mondays, Tuesdays & Fridays from 9am - 6pm Thursdays (late opening) From 9am - 7pm Saturdays from 8am - 3pm
Prices ✂ wet cut £10.00 ✂ children under 16 £8.50 ✂ over 65’s £6.00 17 High Street • Botley • SO30 2EA
Barnett’s Gents Barbers Barnett’s has been grooming the men of Winchester for over a decade. From classic gent’s cuts, to modern cutting edge styles. The professional and friendly team offer a vast wealth of experience in gents barbering at realistic prices. Barnett’s offers an early opening at the weekend and a late night closing mid week and having had a successful 13 years in Winchester, Barnett’s Barbers has successfully expanded into Botley. Gemma Veazey is an experienced stylist having run Barnett’s for the last 9 years and being in the trade for over 14 years. For more information call Barnett’s on 01489 799958
NEW LIFE TRAINING Check for times and venues by phone or text on 07771 985015
Voucher 1
Try a class for free Come along to BOOTCAMP, BOX CIRCUITS or a KIDS CLASS for FREE! (normally £4). Every class is safe, effective & fun.
Voucher 2
Running Club -Free Run Come along to beginners running club for FREE! This includes expert advice, coaching, motivation, fun and a social factor.
Voucher 3
Free PT Consultation • F ree Personal Training Consultation (worth £40) • E stablish your health and fitness levels • R eceive recommendations to start a NEW LIFE being fit and healthy!
www.nltraining.co.uk
GET FIT! LOSE WEIGHT! HAVE FUN!! Specialising in PERSONAL TRAINING, RUNNING CLUB, KICKFIT, BOX CIRCUITS and BOOTCAMP, New Life Training are 100% committed to people achieving their goals. Client’s experience: “My consultation was a wake-up call, 30 kilos over weight, high blood pressure and 14 months until my wedding. I had three goals…. lose weight, fit into 32” trousers and run 3 miles. I joined running club on a Monday, Bootcamp on a Saturday, and enjoyed a PT session mid-week. Within 8 weeks I was running 3 miles and cycling to work 3 times a week. I’ve lost 4 kilos of body fat, 6cm’s from my waist and feel amazing!!! Classes are fun and friendly and NL Training have been invaluable”. Liam. Visit www.nltraining.co.uk and use one of the vouchers for FREE!
If you’re overweight here’s some very good news! Sue Peckham and James Holmes at the Hampshire Hypnotherapy Centre in Whiteley, Fareham have developed 3 programmes that will empower you to achieve your weight loss goals easily.
1. Easyloss Virtual Gastric Band stimulates your body into thinking you’ve had a gastric band fitted. Most suitable for clients with a high BMI over 30. Consultation Fee usually £75 but call us before September 30th quoting ‘Solent Life’ and your fee will be only £50… saving a massive £25!
2. Easyloss Programme created by James and Sue. Sue lost over 3 stone with this programme in 2004 and has kept it off ever since!
3. Pure Hypnoanalysis which clears any underlying unconscious cause which may be driving you overeat or ‘comfort eat’. All initial consultations for Pure Hypnoanalysis and Eayloss are FREE!
Guaranteed results! We guarantee that if you follow our simple guidelines you will lose weight so just pick up the phone and call us FREE on 0800 970 4776 to arrange your Initial Consultation and start your weight loss success story today!
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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coast&country
love
hedgehogs There are approximately between 5,000 and 7,000 spines on an average adult hedgehog. Sadly this little animal is in decline with numbers dropping from two million in the mid 1990s to around one million today. Help is at hand though for the Hampshire hedgehog through the Hogs Lodge Hedgehog Sanctuary and a group of foster carers. words • david rose-massom
M
elanie Hafford, who lives in a delightful little bungalow in Porchester, is one such foster carer for hedgehogs and when Solent Life visited her to talk about this most endearing of animals we thought that being a ‘surrogate mum’ to spiny little creatures we would find a dotty, eccentric little old lady. The only part of the description that was true was the ‘little’ part. She is petite but she is also just a normal, caring, intelligent woman who just has an amazing life-long love of nature and her creatures. “I love the countryside and love all animals.” She told Solent Life. “I would help any wild animal if it was in trouble and try to get it back into the wild. As humans we take so much from this planet and we just have to give bits back. Animals do need our help sometimes whereas people are a species that can help themselves and if we keep advancing into the environment of our wildlife then something has to give. There needs to be a balance.”
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It is a long way in the future but Melanie quoted figures, backed by fact; that has hedgehogs in the wild being extinct by 2025 if the current trend of reduction in numbers continues. “The hedgehog is one of our oldest living mammals in the UK countryside.” Melanie continued. “Their natural environment is the area around arable land; they live in the periphery of fields in the hedgerows and the like. In fact if you put a hedgehog into a room it will work its way around the skirting board.” It is the releasing of them back into the wild that gives rise to problems, so limited has their natural environs become. “We cannot release them back into most arable areas now because of pesticides. Although there is a fashion for organic farming we are still not far enough down that route to make a difference. Hedgehogs are the bottom of the food chain, below foxes and badgers and so they are at the back of the queue for food in the hedgerows.”
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
“One of the challenges that hedgehogs have had to overcome is slug pellets, which may have become ‘pet friendly’ but are still not good for wildlife once in the food chain.” She continued. “A slug eats a pellet, then the slug is eaten by the hedgehog; and that is no good for them as the pellet is chemical based. Also by killing the slugs you take away another food source; kill a slug or snail and that is one less food item for the hedgehog. Also 50,000 are killed on our roads every year.” Although they compete for the same food source, Melanie has watched badgers, foxes and hedgehogs all feeding together when food is plenty. “The problem is in urban areas and with manicured gardens where there are not enough wild areas where these food sources can thrive, the animals then compete for that food and the hedgehog gets the rough end of the deal.” Melanie would like to see a little wildlife area and maybe a small pond, not the water feature kind, in every garden to help aid wildlife of all types. So how did she become a foster carer? “I just stumbled into hedgehogs really; as a kid I would help animals across roads and I recall bringing home an injured slowworm. I was always interested in nature and was bought up to respect and live with animals. Some years ago I opened my door and discovered a pair of young hedgehogs, from a late litter, and realised they would not make it through the winter. I called them Harry and Harriet, as I always had
trouble sexing them.” With advice from Hogs Lodge Hedgehog Sanctuary Melanie tended for them over the winter before constructing a half-way house. “It was made of chicken-wire and fence panels to get them used to the semiwild while feeding them. Eventually I would leave a door open for them and they would come and go; eventually going for good back into the wild after they had learned to forage for themselves.” This time of year, October to November, hedgehogs should be heading for hibernation. The last two winters with the extended cold periods have been perfect for hibernating animals. “From October onwards, should you see a hedgehog wandering around when it should be hibernating then it really should be taken in, checked over and weighed. It should be at least 600gms to survive the winter. Check with Hogs Lodge Hedgehog Sanctuary, or with the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, how best to care for it but keep it warm in a blanket and feed it white meat cat food (no fish or gravy), cat biscuits, mealworms and water. Not bread and milk as some people believe.” Melanie has even fed her spiny charges on Weetabix and cat food mush to ensure they got their fluid intake. “They become quite settled when fostered.”
She said. “I had one who would climb up my arm and snuggle down in the hood of my dressing gown to sleep, snoring quite loudly. Others have loved to push a ping-pong ball around the floor; they really can become quite playful. And, one more thought, you cannot catch any fleas that may be on the hedgehog as they are species specific.” Melanie added. “The hedgehog is the centrepiece of the British countryside, it is almost an iconic figure of our wildlife and we do need to take better care of it. The Government do very little, although it is an endangered species. The Water Vole has gained a great deal of help and attention, quite rightly, but we need that same attention for the hedgehog.” Paula Cawley of the Hogs Lodge Hedgehog Sanctuary added to Melanie’s words with some good advice; “Hedgehogs do not make good pets when fostered; I have had lots of calls over the past few years from people wanting to buy hedgehogs to keep them indoors as pets.” She said, “It takes a lot to convince them that they do not make good pets, and if they want a hedgehog as a pet then buy a pigmy hedgehog. To foster a hedgehog you need to keep it in its natural environment as much as possible and not let them get human friendly.” l
If you see a hedgehog that you believe is struggling or should be hibernating; you can call the RSPCA, as they do take calls on hedgehogs, they deal with all wildlife as well as pets etc. Go to the website for the British Hedgehog Preservation Society at www.britishhedgehogs.org. uk they have lots of fact sheets that people can download and read, they also have a list of carers on their website for people to contact in their area to take on injured or orphaned hedgehogs. Paula Cawley of the Hogs Lodge Hedgehog Sanctuary is on 01420 476890 most evenings or go to www.hogs-lodgehedgehog-sanctuary.co.uk – she is happy to be contacted but pointed out that at the moment she does not cover the Southampton area.
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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roadtest
small but
spacious The word Colt has many meanings or connotations, mostly sporting, firearms or horses yet to reach maturity. The Colt in our Mitsubishi test car reflected none of these things – but instead, perhaps added something new. words • dave hill & janet grimm
T
he Colt is the entry level in the diverse and interesting range that is the Mitsubishi stable. Starting at just over £9,000 and peaking in the high £14,000’s which will get you the model with the biggest engine and the most ticks in the standard equipment list; the collection probably has something to satisfy most requirements. The car tested this month was the CZ2, 1.3litre, 3 door manual model, which places it around the middle of the Colt range. Its 390cm length makes it compact and when stood next to it, yes – it looks small. However, this apparent compactness is deceptive. For a car of its class, it appears to be one of the most spacious once inside. Aimed, I think, primarily for the city market, it probably fulfils all criteria for that purpose; small, manoeuvrable, versatile and economical. In addition to this it has a pleasing style and received favourable comments on the modern appearance and its elegance compared with others in it class. Getting in and out was easy, with seat heights and the absence of pronounced lateral support cushions that abound in more sporty cars, there is no concept or illusion that one is climbing over something to get in – just slide in and slide out. This of course will have a great appeal perhaps to the slightly more mature amongst us that
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are maybe not as flexible or mobile as in our younger days. I really did appreciate this even though my youthfulness has not deserted me (although I cant convince my kids or colleagues of this). First impressions were that this was a fairly simple but basic car. However, little features kept being discovered that made it seem good value. Whilst the test car didn’t have every luxury gadget, it had more than enough to be quite acceptable. With cruise control, CD player, temperature selectable air conditioning, iPod/MP3 interface and plenty of cup holders, equipment levels were more than adequate. On the road however, was where most surprises came. This is a small inexpensive car; probably less than half the price of a lot of cars that we see and so my expectations were appropriately tamed. Actually, this little car on the road, in my opinion, punched way above its weight in so many ways. Smooth and well tempered on motorways giving very reasonable performance. The level of sound deadening was much better than on many other small cars resulting in road, wind and other ambient noise levels being subdued to a very acceptable level. Suspension settings were nicely balanced to give an excellent ride over most surfaces. On some ‘ridged’ concrete motorway surfaces however, the combination of tyres and suspension gave rise to some odd harmonic noise,
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
but usually these can be eliminated by just varying the speed. In addition to the seats being accessible, they were firm and supportive. In fact after about 3 hours straight driving, both my wife and I were still quite comfortable. Whilst actual fuel consumption wasn’t monitored with any accuracy, the gauge seemed reluctant to suggest we had used any; and with Janet having driven it round for an evening before me, I can’t help but conclude that it must be pretty economical. Claimed figures are 36.7 (urban), 56.5 (extra urban) and 47.1 (combined). There is a ‘ClearTec’ model available which has a number of additional economy features that improve these numbers further. Without trying passengers in the back I cannot comment on space – but looking over my shoulder from the driver’s seat – there did seem a lot of space back there. It is important to remember here that this is a car built to a specific budget range and therefore it is unsurprising that there is not too much burr walnut and hand stitched leather. Some bits may seem a little on the ‘economy’ side – but Mitsubishi have not compromised on the things that matter. It has a real feel of the traditional Mitsubishi unbreakable.
His summary A spacious but small car with a feeling of robustness where it matters; Pleasant to drive, economical and good looking. The trade-in offers available at Sparshatts the moment, will make the Colt very appealing to many budgets.
T
he little car in a pretty shade of blue is sitting in the driveway facing towards the window as I wash up after dinner. There is no particular hurry to go out and complete this month’s test drive and, its confession time, I have already apologised to the children for bringing home a Mitsubishi Colt! But glancing again at the car, there is the realisation that it is actually, nice looking, its styling belies its initial impression and it has a level of thoughtful design higher than that of most, more expensive, cars in its class. My favourite stylish touch is the triangular side indicators which echo the shape of the Mitsubishi badge; neat! Driving this little car is really quite fun, the seats are firm and comfortable and the steering wheel controls, the good ICE with MP3 connectivity, and simple, clear dials help improve the experience even further. Driving on the motorway is easy, cruise control makes it effortless and the noise levels stay low so there is no need to turn up the stereo to hide the road noise. From a very girly point of view, this car has lots of places in which to put ‘stuff’ and I have never been in a car with so many cup holders – there’s one for each member of the family! The three door version tested meant that climbing in and out of the back was not particularly elegant but nor was it difficult. Legroom is not extensive but is sufficient and although it may become
uncomfortable for a family on a long journey it would mean that the Colt would be ideal for a couple and perhaps the occasional grandchild! The boot was sufficiently big enough for Bear the dog, who has now been joined by a new family member, Amber, a slightly smaller big dog! Although they are very fond of each other they may have begun to get a bit fed up if we had a long journey to take. The shopping that the current family budget will allow for fitted in easily, however the huge savings that we would make on fuel if we drove the Colt everyday would mean an increased budget and then it might not fit! What a nice quandary to have! l
Her summary An attractive, good value car, quiet and comfortable and perfect for thirsty travellers!
The car tested was a Mitsubishi Colt 3 door, CZ2, 1.3 and was kindly provided by Sparshatts of Fareham. For more information: Sparshatts of Fareham, 01329 828727 Newgate Lane, Fareham, Hampshire, PO14 1AL
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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K2 Carriage Company K2 Carriages - Now at 8 & 9 Fleming Close Segensworth East Fareham; for all your MOT and garage requirements. K2 CARRIAGES Ltd was founded in 1977 by a local family man, Ken Coombs, who wanted to provide a personal, effective and affordable option for the repair and maintenance of all kinds of cars and light commercial vehicles. Ken handed over running of K2 to his son Carl in 1989. Since then the business has continued to grow as a result of successfully meeting customer needs and exceeding expectations. Earlier this year K2 had outgrown its premises at Pinkmead Farm near Botley and in July 2011 K2 Carriages Ltd moved to new purpose built premises in Fleming Close, Segensworth East near Fareham. Carl and his team believe that value for money is just as important as providing a premium service to both new and existing clients. K2 is one of the longest established and respected independent garages in the local area providing premium service without main dealer premium prices. K2 now operates from two fully equipped workshops, featuring all of the latest equipment including diagnostic tools, Class 4 & 7 MOT testing all from its new location in Fleming Close, Segensworth East near Fareham. K2 Carriages is open 6 days a week from 0800-1800hrs Monday to Friday and 0800-1600hrs Saturdays. Contact them on 01489 787187 or www.k2carriages.co.uk
FLINTSTONE First for Tyres
AUTUMN SPECIAL OFFERS ROCKSTONE QUALITY TYRES! 175 65 TR 14 (Peugeot, Ford etc) 195 65 HR 15 (Renault, Vauxhall etc) 205 55 VR 16 (Audi, BMW, Merc etc)
2 for £82 4 for £154 2 for £99 4 for £189 2 for £112 4 for £215
ALL IN PRICES!
Includes fitting, balance, valve, tyre & VAT
e: sales@flintstonetryres.co.uk w: www. flintstonetryres.co.uk Park Gate Business Park, 116 Botley Road, Park Gate, SO31 1FQ
t: 01489 570800
The Rotary Club of Fareham Meon
Rotary Fareham Meon have started a beneficial publicity relationship between local business and Rotary designed to raise regular and reliable extra charitable income and raise the profile of Rotary throughout the community. The photograph shows Phill Upshall proprietor of Titchfield Motors handing over his membership fee of £100 to Vice President of the club James Fullarton. Titchfield Motors joins K100 Kitchens of Porchester as the second local business to sign up. Business Partners will receive regular publicity in all the clubs publications and web site, press releases when appropriate and opportunities to attend Rotary meetings and functions. Phill who celebrates 40 years ‘man and boy’, at the family garage business says “We are delighted to support our local Rotary Club with their fundraising, which benefits so many in the local community.”
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
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
Bus Stop
Every year the seafront along Gosport’s Stokes Bay has an event that diverts the eye from the water and attention heads inland. For the passionate anorak it is all about the buses, both old and new, that not only line a grassy field just a few yards away from the shingle shore but also take residents and visitors on free road trips around the area.
Chilli Weather
The annual Chilli Festival at West Dean Gardens just north of Chichester has now become a Mecca for food lovers with a taste for the spicy and hot. The food is hot, even the ice cream, the music from various areas around the grounds is even hotter and the weather for the last two years has also been a trifle warm.
Showing Off
The New Forest Agricultural Show is one of the finest events of its type in the UK. This year the sun shone and the crowds came out. Country sports, country clothes and of course agricultural machinery new and vintage were all on display over three magnificent days.
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Fun Days
One of the wonderful things about living in the Solent Life area is our magical surroundings. When weekends arrive along with sunshine and wind, as it did the first weekend of August, the seafront just fills with fun seekers. Windsurfers and kite surfers of all ages, we met David who boasted of being a young 74, while a young girl and her granddad had great fun with a canoe in the surf. On shore locals promenaded along the seafront with families and dogs and once again it proved to be an area always appreciated by those that live there.
Big Game Hunting
The Historic Dockyard in Portsmouth has a reputation for not sitting on its wonderful laurels and just waiting for people to visit. Most weekends there is something extra to do and enjoy. Early in August it was for children of all ages when The Big Game Weekend drew the crowds. Quoits, giant snakes and ladders and a whole myriad of traditional games, including a massive battleships game, which seemed to be run by young children in period costume, attracted the crowds for a weekend of fun.
Winners
Solent Life Readers Christine Strong and Brian Hawkins won a trip to Glorious Goodwood and turned their prize into hard cash with winnings of over £300 between them – they failed to share it among the team here!
Holding an event you’d like us to feature?
More Winners As part of their 90th Birthday celebrations Carters of Swanwick held a daily competition on their stunning stand at the New Forest Show this year; three days and three winners each taking home a superb Honda Brushcutter UMK425LE each valued at £275. Winners were Carolyn Gale from Wareham, Mr Marshall from Romsey and Mr Sandford of Swanwick. David Jacobs of Carters presented them with their prizes as well as a tuition session at their Swanwick showroom.
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.
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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homes
kbbreview
We Design
Of Best Kitchen, Bedroom, Bathroom retailer, Southampton
Kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and home studies.
We Supply
Hungry for design ideas? Solent Kitchen Design invites you to a cookery and interior design event at it's award wining showroom on 24th September 9am-6pm. Recently awarded Best Kitchen, Bedroom, Bathroom Retailer in Southampton* in the same year that it celebrates it’s 40th Anniversary, the family company will be holding an event that celebrates every room in the home with specialists on hand to advise you about all aspects of your home interior. Whilst enjoying a relaxing glass of wine and sampling delicious food cooked in the showroom you will be able to gather ideas, aspire for the future and take advantage of the special event offers available on the day. Spend time with Solent Kitchens in-house designers for inspirational ideas for a fitted interiors project (pre-booked appointments can be arranged). A local interior designer will also be on hand to give advice about colour schemes and all aspects of interior design for the home. Teaming up with De Dietrich, the premium kitchen appliance brand, professional cookery demonstrations will take place throughout the day with fabulous recipes being cooked on the latest appliances including demonstrations of the revolutionary Piano hob.
Bespoke, contemporary traditional and classic styles.
We Install
Using our own installation team. We are a family company with a long standing reputation for providing a very professional yet personal service, combining quality units and appliances with inspirational design flair and full installation project management.
Award winning Kitchen & Interiors showroom Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 4pm 110 Macnaghten Road, Bitterne, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 1GH
BESPOKE GARDEN STUDIOS
*KBB Review Magazine – June 2011
“These events are always popular and inspiring for our visitors. The practical demonstrations and professional advice provide a unique insight into the possibilities for everybody’s home interiors.” David Praine.
Celebrating 40 years “The company was founded by my father in 1970, with the first showroom opening in 1977. I joined in 1992 after training in quantity surveying. The market has changed immeasurably during those 40 years and although the showroom is continuously updated with the latest design styles and appliances our ethos has remained solid – to be a friendly company providing a proper design service, high quality units, educated advice and complete project installation by our own employed fitters. The small scale of the business ensures that I can personally manage the complete project. I get to know my clients well, in fact many become friends, and a large proportion of our work is through repeat business and recommendations.” David Praine, Managing Director.
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
ANY SIZE / ANY SHAPE / ANY GARDEN ➜ FREE DESIGN & ADVICE ➜ WORK FROM HOME & SAVE FUEL ➜ ELECTRICS ➜ FULLY INSULATED ➜ HEATED ➜ DOUBLE GLAZED ➜ FULL TILE METAL EFFECT ROOF SHEETS ➜ NO PLANNING REQUIRED (2.5m rule*) *see www.planningportal.gov.uk
CALL NOW DAVE: 01329 311789 OR 07891 029540 KEVIN: 01329 237551 OR 07775 675445 www.dkbespokegardenstudios.co.uk
GYMS MUSIC ROOMS EXTRA SPACE PLAYHOUSES OFFICES POOL ROOMS HOT TUBS OR SPA HOUSES
Dee Cee Upholstery & Interiors Dee Cee Upholstery and Interiors offer a warm welcome and a world of comfort at their Portswood showroom (5 mins J5, M27). Established in 1978, Dee Cee is Southampton’s longest standing member of the Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishers and is highly recommended by them. The company is proud to be the only master upholsterers and soft furnishers in the area to be on the Trading Standards “Buy with Confidence” scheme (www.buywithconfidence.info). Dee Cee employ highly skilled upholsterers ensuring the best craftsmanship that you & your furniture deserve, offering a wealth of experience, advice and expertise to carry out renovation of your furniture, be it antique or modern. Re-upholstery is carried out in the time honoured traditional way, using skills passed down through the generations. You are always welcome to visit their showroom and see their craftsman at work - they look after customers’ furniture as if it were their own. Dee Cee can supply all types of tailor made curtains, blinds and loose covers, made up in fabric chosen by you from an extensive range of pattern books available at their showroom. Looking for someone to refurbish, repair or polish your furniture? Look no further than Dee Cee to bring your furniture back to its former glory. If you find it difficult to visit them they are always happy to visit you - free of charge - to discuss your requirements and provide a written estimate for your project by email or post. Want to “have a go” yourself? Dee Cee can supply you with all your DIY needs, plus clearance fabric from hundreds of “end of rolls” in their remnant room at half price or less. Dee Cee are your leading local experts in rise and recline healthcare chairs with one of the largest selections in Hampshire. “Not only was the finish result absolutely perfect the customer service from start to finish was nothing short of first class”. Claire Turland
Are you sitting comfortably?
✁
Are you sitting comfortably?
BOTLEY BATHROOM CENTRE with 36 years experience, let us build your dream
Largest family run bathroom centre in the area
If not visit our showroom @ 502 Portswood Road, SO17 3SP
70% OFF Selected Shower Cubicles
Relax in our luxury recliners (matching sofas available). Choose from a superb range of: ● Manual ● Electric ● FREE brochure Our FREE 5 year guarantee covers the frame, action, motor and handset.
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●P ower lift health care chairs, available in all sizes to fit you.
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www.deeceeupholstery.co.uk
Southampton City Council Trading Standards Services
Planning Service Available | Large Bathroom and Shower Showrooms
● Re-Upholstery ● Curtains & blinds ● Loose covers ● DIY
Extensive Clearance Area Now Open
Large dedicated shower & bathroom showrooms Evening Planning Appointments Available The Malthouse, Church Lane, Botley, Hampshire OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK tel: 01489
786272
email:admin@baths-etc.co.uk
✁ solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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The Titchfield Quilt Show Solent Stitchers, a group of 50 ladies who meet twice a month at Titchfield Parish Rooms, will be mounting a Quilt Show on October 1st at Titchfield Community Centre from 11-4pm. On show will be loads of quilts, wall hangings, table runners and other patchwork items made by group members over the last year, plus a group quilt which will be raffled in aid of the Rowan’s Hospice “Dorothy’s Dream” appeal. There will also be a tombola with prizes of bags, bowls, hats and cushions. You could pick up an early Christmas gift from the local craftspeople who will be selling jewellery, pottery, woodwork and handbags and you can watch craft demonstrations including lace making. If you’re inspired to start stitching you can buy patchwork material! Refreshments will be available, there is disabled access from the large free carpark at the Community Centre and admission is just £2, accompanied under 16s free.
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
KITCHENS SUPPLIED BY
QUALITY FITTED KITCHENS FOR THE SPACE YOU LIVE IN
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Transform your kitchen in just one day Is your kitchen looking tired and out of date? Have your work surfaces lost their wow-factor? The good news is that you don’t have to go to the expense of replacing your entire kitchen to get the ‘designer look’ you’ve always dreamed of. Sleek, stylish and unashamedly luxurious, Granite Transformations’ surfaces are the simplest way to give tired worktops a lift and your kitchen a whole new lease of life. Made from natural granite, quartz and stone combined with stateof-the-art polymer, our eco-friendly worktops add a magical sparkle that turns the ordinary into extraordinary. They are also stain, scratch and heat resistant and come in a vast array of colours and styles all with the same lifetime warranty. Installation is quick and pain-free, usually fitted in just one day and our custom-made worktops fit directly onto your current surface providing instant design impact without the mess impact! To fully compliment your dream kitchen design Granite Transformations can also provide a stylish range of replacement doors, complementary splash backs and the most contemporary range of sinks, taps and appliances. To book a free home consultation with our in-house interior designer or for more information please call 01590 673 134 or visit www.granitetransformations.co.uk/lymington
AFTER
BEFORE
ROOFING PROBLEMS? 39 years experience in flat & pitch roofing
BOB WEAVER ROOFING LTD Your local RubberBond EPDM contact
• Free Roofing Survey & Quotations • All Work Covered by 15 & 20 Year Guarantee • Flat & Pitched Roofing • EPDM Flat Roofing
023 9265 3352 • 07860 356466
www.bobweaverroofing.co.uk 48…
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
bob.weaver1@ntlworld.com
Fit a new Kitchen/Bedroom or Transform the one you have
www.kabt.co.uk FREE survey & quotation CALL 01329 830111 NOW! Heming & Co The Square, Wickham PO17 5JT
Solent Flooring Ltd
Established 21 Years • Fully Insured
CARPETS • VINYLS • LAMINATES • REAL WOOD • CERAMIC TILES ALL SUPPLIED AND PROFESSIONALLY FITTED
SPECIAL OFFER
All prices include fitting, good underlay, disposal of old floor covering, grippers and door bar.
Solent Twist
Approved Retailers & Installers
FREE Home Selection & Estimate Service For a friendly and genuine service with no obligation call: Freephone: 0800 9177 553 Jason: 07770 411734 John: 07812 132087 Fax: 01329 238861
Email: jason@solentflooring.co.uk
Unit 19, Regent Trade Park, Barwell Lane, Gosport PO13 0EQ
10 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty 10 Year Stain Warranty 12 Colours to choose from
Solent Berber
100% Man Made Natural Looking Carpet
Room Price Examples Including VAT
3m x 4m £156 • 4m x 4m £208 5m x 4m £260 • 6m x 4m £312
WE PAY THE VAT INCREASE FOR YOU solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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greenfingers
Jobs for this month: l Collect and sow seeds from perennials and hardy annuals. l Divide herbaceous perennials. l Take stock of your grow-your-own successes and failures, in readiness for next year.
September
greenfingers I hope you’ve had time to enjoy your garden over the summer. September is a great time to be outdoors, so make the most of autumnal colours and get your garden looking good for this season. words • anne watson
I
t’s also the month to look forward to next spring, by choosing bulbs for the first burst of colour after the winter. As well as planting bulbs in your borders, arrange more than one variety in a planter to flower at different times, starting with snowdrops that are the first to appear. There are so many bulbs to choose from. As well as all the varieties you would expect, we’ve got a nautical theme at Garsons. My favourites include the Cape Cod tulip, which will grow to 30cm high and flowers from April to May. It’s bright orange tinged with yellow. Dreamboat is a short stemmed variety, and is a lovely shade of apricot, growing about 25cm high. Lastly on bulbs, Double Fashion is a double narcissus which is creamy yellow with an orange centre and will grow to about 35cm in height. And how about the scented hyacinth, positioned close to the house so
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you make the most of the fragrance? Conditions are good for planting as the soil is warm and showers will water in your new additions. Ornamental grasses give year round interest and can be combined with flowering plants that complement the style of planting. It gives a natural, unstructured look, with grasses of different heights, shades and textures mixed in with perennials for colour and shape. Mix rudbeckia goldsturm, which offers dark red autumnal colour, with grasses for a high impact effect. Heathers also mix well when placed in front of grasses. Your poor lawn has had a hard time, what with a cold winter and a fairly dry summer. Scarify with a rake to remove moss and dead grass, then aerate with a garden fork to allow air and water to get to the roots. Choose an autumn lawn treatment to boost root growth and help it through the winter. l
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
l Dig up remaining potatoes before slug damage spoils them, they can be stored in hessian sacks which are available at Garsons. Potatoes keep for months in a cool dry place. l Reduce the frequency of houseplant watering – they need less water over the winter months. l Clean out cold frames and greenhouses so that they are ready for use in the autumn. There are products available to ensure you have clean and pest-free greenhouse for the next season. Keep birdbaths and feeders topped up for our feathered friends. Until next time, happy gardening!
Competition Winner Pictured are Jon Saner from Garsons with the lucky winner of the barbecue competition, Mrs P Brightman from Hedge End. Mrs Brightman entered the Solent Life competition to win a Weber One Touch barbecue.
Clovers Fencing Clovers Fencing have been erecting fences around the area since the 1970’s. It’s customer base is very local, with referalls and recommendations from satisfied customers providing most of the work load. The business has benfited in recent years from the input of Josh Clover who besides being a very good fencer, is also an excellent gate maker and joiner, he prefers to concentrate on that aspect of the business, and is kept busy producing bespoke hard wood gates, doors, window frames and any thing else customers require. While fencing remains the core business, free quotations are available for decking, pergolas, garden rooms, car ports, timber garages and out buildings. So if you are looking for something with that special touch of hand made quality this long established family firm will be pleased to be of service.
Clovers Fencing (Est. 1980)
Quality fencing, service & much more… Gates… Beautiful bespoke entrance gates. Sun Decks… Hard wood or soft wood. Timber framed buildings… Garages, sheds, gazebos. Over 30 years experience.
Just a small job or repair… No problem! Ring…
01489 583576 or 07831422939 solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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Inspirational outside spaces where once there was just a garden
A Cattery that is home from home. Providing the very best care and attention for your much loved cat(s), enabling you to enjoy your holiday with complete peace of mind Rates: £9.00 per day 1 cat • £15.00 per day 2 cats 218 Brook Lane, Sarisbury Green, SO31 7DY Telephone: 01489 480 888 • Mobile: 07717 368 302 Email: info@brooklanecattery.co.uk Web: www.brooklanecattery.co.uk
• Garden design & planning • Landscaping • Award winning environmental policy
01329 289542
OutsideSpaces LTD
www.outsidespacesltd.co.uk
ITG
Garden Design
Tel: 02380 629913 Mob: 07500 505755
construction ltd
Please contact our office if you would like a quotation
We are a local company based in Eastleigh, Hampshire We Undertake all types of building works including:● A complete range of groundwork services for both commercial and domestic clients ● Office Refurbishment and Shop Fitting
● Loft Conversions ● Extensions and New Build ● C ommercial and Domestic Electrical and Plumbing Contracts
Wildlife gardening A wilderness or a garden design opportunity? Gardens are a valuable part of our natural environment and encouraging wild life need not mean turning your garden into a wilderness. As an established local garden designer, with a passion for nature, Debbie Carroll has found many opportunities to incorporate elements into gardens that support our native plants, encourage wildlife or just help the home owner to do a little bit for the environment. Some examples of where this has been achieved include: A pile of logs or an ornamental wall? Log piles are a valuable home to insects, frogs, newts and toads but they can also be used to act as a divider between parts of a garden and become a feature in their own right when used as a wall or design detail. Send soil to landfill or create land art? The cost of removing waste to landfill can add considerably to any changes in a garden so the chance to be imaginative and try a spot of land art can be both environmentally beneficial and cost effective.
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On a contemporary home, with views of the South Downs, the waste soil was turned into a ribbon of hills reflecting the surrounding countryside. These were sown with chalk down land wildflowers, which have flourished in year 1. At a local school, designing with Hillier Landscapes, an eco-garden saw the waste material used to create an amphitheatre for seating and also brought the wildflowers right into the student’s social space.
Debbie Carroll garden designs All gardens are designed with you in mind.
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Ivy, bane of the garden or solution to a shady spot? Mature ivy acts more like a shrub rather than a climber and is a valuable native plant that thrives in dense shade. It is one of the latest flowering plants attracting hordes of butterflies and hoverflies into autumn. The plant positively buzzes with activity. This is then followed by black fruit in February which the hungry birds love after a tough winter searching for fresh food. A boring wall or a home for wildlife? A sheltered blank wall can provide the opportunity to design a contemporary looking feature that incorporated homes for insects and bats using slate, pipes and timber in imaginative ways. You can meet the Designer at the Romsey show on 10th September, in the Shopping marquee, or if you wish to discuss your garden needs further you can contact her directly on the details below.
T: 02380 685193 M: 07821 546950 www.dcgardendesigns.co.uk
Ruscrete invites you to our Garden Design Open Days Ruscrete, is a family run business and well established in the community for over 45 years. We have a 5 star reputation based on years of experience and excellent customer service.
a RU
The Ruscrete Competition
design cSCRETE on and discsultation ount
worth up to £
740
With branches in both Southampton and Fareham, Ruscrete offers everything you might need to transform your garden. From guidance and information to a huge selection of products and display gardens, we are the company to trust with all your landscaping needs. To enable our customers to prepare ahead for next spring and summer, Ruscrete will be holding Garden Design Open Days on the 10th & 11th September. The Open Days will give our customers the opportunity to view the full range of Garden Design options available, from a free 30 minute consultation to a comprehensive home visit, detailed plan and material estimate. In addition our qualified Garden Designers will be available for questions and answers and future Garden Design Appointments. We will also have examples to view of all the latest and popular products from sandstone paving to artificial grass.
Open Days* Saturday 10th September 2011 from 10-3pm At Ruscrete Ltd, Rushington Business Park, Chapel Lane, Totton, Southampton SO40 9AH Tel: 023 8086 5046 Sunday 11th September 2011 from 10-3pm Ruscrete Garden Design & Landscaping Studio, Fontley Road, Titchfield, Fareham PO15 6QS Tel: 01329 840940
Your chance to enter and win a FREE home visit consultation, garden design and full detailed colour plan worth £240. All you have to do is answer a simple question… for a chance to win! We are also happy to offer up to £500 off the purchase of materials from us as indicated in the free garden design. (T&C's will apply: 10% off the value of materials purchased from us with a maximum discount of £500.)
TERMS & CONDITIONS l The prize will be worth a maximum of £740. l Concessions not participating. l No purchase necessary.
l There is no cash or prize alternative. l The prize must be taken by 31 Dec 2011 l Employees of Ruscrete are not eligible to enter. l Photocopies will not be valid.
to include:
All you have to do is answer the following question. What year was Ruscrete established? (A) 1956 (B) 1966 (C) 1976
l 20%* discount off the cost of any Garden Design Appointments booked for future dates.
To enter, email competitions@solentlife.co.uk quoting ‘Ruscrete Garden Design’, with your name, contact details and answer! Alternatively post your entry to Solent Life, Webb House, 20 Bridge Road, Park Gate, Hampshire, SO31 7GE. Closing date 30.08.11
l Complimentary refreshments l Questions & Answers
Competition entries can also be handed in at both Ruscrete Branches (see editorial for details).
l Meet our Garden Designers l Introduction to new and popular products such as sandstone paving and artificial grass l S upply of Contractor details from our FindaTrader website l Displays of previous garden design plans and a slideshow of completed designs So come and visit Ruscrete, The Home of Landscaping, to maximise your garden’s potential. T&C’s apply.
tele: 01329 840940 (Fareham) 023 8086 5046 (Southampton) email: design@ruscrete.co.uk www.home-of-landscaping.co.uk solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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backtonature
events at Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve… Bats!
wildlife September
September is a very fruitful month at Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve and mammals and birds alike are making the most of it! words • jess daish-miller images • darinn smith
T
he hazels, which were dripping with yellow catkins back in January, are now covered in nuts – to the great delight of squirrels and wood mice. Squirrels chisel the hazelnuts in half, while wood mice nibble a neat hole in them, so looking at the distinctive discarded cases under the hazel can give you a clue as to exactly what has been eating them. The brambles, whose flowers provided a great nectar source for butterflies earlier in the year, are now dripping with fruit. It’s not only the birds which enjoy the blackberries; they are a particular favourite of foxes and badgers too. Wild rosehips are also enjoyed by small mammals and finches in particular, then there are the elderberries, and the sloes – the small, dark fruit of the blackthorn, all important food sources for the birds and mammals. In the meadow areas of the Reserve, you should still be able to hear grasshoppers and crickets chirruping well into September. Their distinctive noise is produced by a process known as stridulation which involves rubbing
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one part of the body, which has a series of ‘pegs’, over another – exactly like rubbing a comb over a piece of card! Grasshoppers stridulate by rubbing their hind legs against their wings while crickets rub their wings together. If you are on a walk at Swanwick Lakes in September, listen for those crickets and grasshoppers enjoying the early autumn sunshine and enjoy the sight of brightly coloured berries – before they are all eaten! 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
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
12th September • 7.30am Join experts from the Hampshire Bat Group to learn all about these fascinating creatures at Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve. There will be an illustrated talk, followed by an evening guided walk to listen for bats. For further details contact Dawn Preston or Jess Daish-Miller on 01489 570240. Suggested donation £3 per person. Please bring a torch, outdoor clothing and sensible shoes or boots. Booking essential as places are limited.
Meet the Artist in Residence 25th September • 1.00 – 4.00pm Sarah Morrish, the Swanwick Lakes Artist in Residence, will be visiting the reserve one Sunday a month to work on paintings either out on the reserve or in the classroom. She will also have examples of the artwork completed so far and will be happy to answer people’s questions. For further details contact Dawn Preston or Jess Daish-Miller on 01489 570240. Please bring outdoor clothing and sensible shoes.
Beneath the Waves: Marine Conservation in the Solent – Fareham District Group 12th September • 1.00 – 4.00pm An illustrated talk by Jolyon Chesworth, the Trust’s Marine Conservation Manager for SE England. To be held at Holy Trinity Church Hall, West Street, Fareham PO16 OEL. Parking is available in Western Road or Trinity Street car parks. For further details please contact Peter Adams on 01329 287653. Suggested donation £2. Next month look out for details of the culmination of our exciting art project, The Natural Year at Swanwick Lakes.
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.
education
meet the
headmistress
U
nlike other independent schools we have featured, Meoncross is part of a bigger organisation; in fact owners Cognita, have 54 such establishments across the UK, Europe and South East Asia with almost 16,000 pupils in their care. Does this mean that Head words & images • david rose-massom Teacher Sheila James must run her school with the corporate in mind? development.” “The idea is that belonging to Cognita encourage and promote that skill.” Meoncross is also a co-educational school. you do not necessarily belong to just one “They leave this school as very confident The Head explained “The fact that the school; there are openings around the and well rounded people. When a pupil boys and girls are brought up through the world for the highest quality teachers.” She comes to Meoncross they seem to soak school together means we have never had explained in her office which reflected the up everything and they grow and change a respect problem between them; it makes peacefulness of the campus that sits on the almost as soon as they arrive here.” for its own discipline and respect as they edge of Stubbington village. “The important Individual achievement is very important to grow through the years.” thing for the students and pupils here is Sheila James and the school. “I have to take The Head Teacher’s door is literally always that we have an organisation behind us that note of the league tables as we do go for open. “Students, staff and parents know offers support and back up for what we are excellence in education but it is much more they can walk into my office and speak achieving within our own walls.” about the individual student. By having with me, if the door is closed they know Another thing that stands out from the a school of good, strong individuals we I am already with someone. But an opencrowd is a phrase in the prospectus that have a complete school.” door policy means that I don’t miss out in today’s society may almost be frowned “There could be a danger they are not on things going on within the school. As upon as being politically incorrect – Clear conscious of the real world around them a Head teacher I have been able to remain Christian principles… so we work hard to ensure they are aware an educator and I do still teach.” “At this school the clear Christian principle of what is outside the school gates and we Sheila James’ life began at Meoncross was just that at the outset, a religious also encourage that on leaving here they following a knock on her door almost 30 statement.” Sheila said. “Today it is more progress on to a sixth form college as years ago when she was asked if she could about the principles of Christianity; the a stepping stone. The children leave here teach the ‘gals’, as they were referred to goodness in the children no matter what as young adults, articulate and confident.” back then, some maths as a supply teacher. religion or belief they may follow. Good “Children only have one chance at education She loved the place so much she stayed behaviour is paramount and if that is through their school years so we have to and now it is in her capable hands. in place then a good education follows be very pro-active with each and every “This school has been my life, and the through the students own self-discipline.” child.” support I have received personally has “Many rules here are social rules; we work ““The parents like the fact that their children been wonderful. The school is my extended together as a community – an ethos of ‘do are being protected within the school and family but I am also fully aware that nobody unto others’”. She added. “We don’t always we are getting more and more students is indispensible and so I must continue to get it right but we do keep on top of it.” moving over from state run schools for keep the standards high and work hard at “The wish is that good behaviour grows varying reasons. It is a choice for the the excellence through the school from the very young parents to send their children here and they within the and is helped by the older students.” are more aware of the effect that school school. That brought the conversation onto the has on them, they only want what is best MEONCROSS SCHOOL I am mindful diverse age range of the pupils which runs for the children.” Burnt House Lane that I have a Stubbington from just two and three quarters to 16 year “We are not an insular organisation for the PO142EF wonderful job. olds. “It is fairly unusual to have such a children, they go out into the community Tel: 01329 662 182 It has been a broad age range and we are very careful and sport is always the biggest vehicle www.meoncross.co.uk blessing and not to lean toward the ‘clone’ mentality; we for mixing with their peers. Our life within a privilege to are careful to promote the independence of the school is structured and purposeful work here.” the young person and enhancing what they and the child’s parameters are very clear, “My greatest joy is to see and hear happy have to offer. If they are good at something, which in turn brings on a strong work ethic children and this is a happy school.” l even if it does not follow the crowd, we will while allowing for independent growth and
She joined the school 29 years ago as a teacher, but for the past 18 months Meoncross Independent School and its pupils have been in her charge and for the Head Teacher it has been a lifetime of commitment and loyalty to a bastion of educational excellence.
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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The King’s School for children aged 3 to 16 The King’s School opens in September to an increased number of pupils for the fifth consecutive year. Whilst fees are among the most affordable in Hampshire, parents are also attracted to the unique Christian ethos which offers children love, safety and security. It seems that these are key ingredients in preparing young people for a changing world. Many comment on the real sense of peace that they experience when visiting and surveys show that pupils find the school experience deeply fulfilling and enjoyable. Recent major building development has seen the school expand to a potential capacity of 325. This year, 266 pupils line up for their classes which means that there are now just a handful of places left in most year groups. Head Master, Paul Johnson, has also worked hard at recruiting a team of top teachers and school leaders who are both well qualified and deeply committed to the vision of promoting Christian values. “Our motto is, ‘wisdom, stature, favour’, which is the way the Bible tells us that Jesus grew as a child. I cannot think of a better example for our children as we encourage them to be the people of influence we need in this world. The King’s School, Lakesmere House, Allington Lane, Fair Oak, Eastleigh SO32 1DX www.thekingsschool.eu Open Morning on Saturday 24th September 10.30am – 12.00, Open Day on Monday 26th September 10.00am – 2.00pm. Taster Days for Year 6 pupils on Wednesday 5th and Thursday 6th October. Call Amanda 023 8060 0986.
Is your child a gym tot? if not why not! Pre school gymnastics for the under 5s Fun educational and a sound foundation for all sports development.
GYM TOT PRE SCHOOL GYMNASTICS
Join a centre near you: Hedge End, West End, Hamble and Horton Heath Booking now for September and share in our celebrations for 2012 London Olympics.
SEPTEMBER
Call 02380 455007 OR e-mail dynamo.debbie@gmail.com
Affiliated to
Dynamo School of Gymnastics
Dynamic Duo team up for GB 17 year old Dynamo gymnast from Whiteley joins Dynamo team mate Laura Edwards in the Great Britain Performance squad working towards The London Olympics in 2012. Both have selected to represent GB next week to take on Spain and Portugal in Ipswich. The following week they will fly to Romainia to compete against the worlds best to gain valuable experievnce. Foe Laura it is the chance to consolidate her routines and for Kelly it is her First International cap. “Kelly has worked very hard for this opportunity, she finished 7th at this years British championships and as the youngest member of the squad will gain valuable experience. For the club to have two in the running for 2012 olympics is very exciting as the whole club will share in the preparations and celebrations next year.” said Keith Richardson head coach at Dymnamo Any one can join the club www.dynogym.co.uk 02380 455007
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Little Oms Baby Yoga & Mummy Moments
www.littleoms.co.uk Welcometotoaaworld worldwhere where you and ‘be’ Welcome andyour yourbaby babycan canjust just ‘be’ Come and try a class! First taster class is free. Refreshments, mats & cushions provided! provided.
Tuesday 11-12.15 Wednesday 10.30-11.45, 4.15-5.15 Local classes in Warsash & throughout Southampton to Fareham
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Itchen Sixth Form College Success Staff and students at Itchen Sixth Form College are celebrating after achieving a 98% pass rate in A Levels and an increase in the number of students gaining the high grades A*-B. With such outstanding results, huge numbers of students achieved the grades needed to secure their place at university. Student Samantha Andrews was amongst the highest achievers after gaining three A* grades and two A grades in A2 English Language/Literature, A2 Film Studies, A2 Psychology, A2 Sociology and AS Biology. Her outstanding achievements secured her place at Cambridge University to study Politics, Psychology, Sociology and International Studies. Matthew Chapman gained four A grades for A2 Maths With Further Maths, A2 Physics, A2 Chemistry and AS Biology, securing his place at the University of Southampton to study the fouryear Masters of Physics. Another student going to the University of Southampton is Emily Anderson who will be going to study Philosophy there after gaining two A grades and an A* in A2 Communication Studies, A2 English Language and AS Media Studies. Gemma Lacey gained two A grades and one A* and will be going to Bournemouth University to study Advertising and Ashley Beckett, who gained one A*, two A grades and one B in A2 Biology, A2 Geography, A2 Psychology and AS Ancient History, is now looking forward to studying Psychology at Cardiff University. With so many students celebrating their excellent achievements Principal Barry Hicks said, “We are particularly proud of the number of students who are achieving the highest grades which allows these candidates to have the best choices of universities and career opportunities. We look forward to hearing of their future success.”
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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Meoncross School Success Meoncross School is again celebrating success amongst its pupils as 90% or more pupils have achieved a minimum of 5 A*-Cs at GCSE for more than 10 years in a row. Head Girl, Victoria Tucker was delighted with her results achieving seven A* passes, and four A grades. Victoria who is going to be studying Mathematics and Sciences at A Level commented, ‘‘All the support has been great over the years at Meoncross’’. Samuel Carr, Head Boy, also passed eleven GCSEs including seven A* passes, and 3 A grades, and is now looking forward to attending Peter Symonds College to study Politics, Philosophy, English and History before pursuing a career in Law or Politics. He reflected that, ‘’Meoncross has been like a family, my time here has been brilliant’’. Results were strong across all subjects within the school, with 75% of candidates achieving A* or A in the individual science subjects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics and all candidates taking Statistics achieving A* or A. Mrs Sheila James, Headteacher commented, ‘’Our results are a credit to all of our staff and pupils who have worked so hard to maximise each child’s potential. I am delighted to have shared some of the successes of pupils across a whole spectrum of abilities and talents, and it is days like today that help remind me of our core aims and values of nurturing the best in individuals”.
More GCSE success for St Mary's College It was smiles all round at St Mary's College in Southampton as the students collected their GCSE results. With 91% of the students passing with 5 A*-C grades including English and Maths many were pleased that their hard work and dedication had paid off. The teachers were given reason to smile too after their student achieved 100% pass rates a range of subjects including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Film Studies, Music, Classics and German and the high pass rates of 94%, 97% and 96% for Maths, English and English Literature respectively. Headteacher Mr Craig Lickley said, "This year's results continue to demonstrate the strength and consistency of the College's GCSE performance; although the figure of 91% is marginally down from last year, there has been a significant rise in the number of students achieving high grade GCSEs. Of those 91%, 30% gained A* - A grades and 57% A* to B grades. I am extremely proud to recognise that our students have left with ten good GCSE grades on average with outstanding performances in the core subjects of Maths (94%) and English (97%)." The results also showed that the early entry Year 10 students achieved very high pass rates too – including 92% for English and 94% for Maths indicating that the results will be very positive for the next school year. With such outstanding achievements, these St Mary's students are well on their way to bright futures.
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Meoncross School A culture of care and excellence
An independent school for boys and girls aged 2 3/4 to 16
Find out what Fareham College can offer you
Whole school open morning Saturday 15th October
For further information, please telephone the Registrar:
01329 662182
Burnt House Lane, Stubbington, Fareham PO14 2EF enquiries@meoncross.co.uk
www.meoncross.co.uk
Come and visit the College on 5th and 6th October 5-8pm to discover the possibilities available to you. A pass rate of 99% for both A-levels and BTECs has been achieved this year with many students going on to Higher Education or employment. There are over 130 courses to choose from depending on what direction you want to take your studies in. Our Sixth Form courses incorporate A-levels, Digital and Information Technology and Visual and Performing Arts. If Vocational studies are more where your passion lies, then courses such as Motor Vehicle, Air Cabin Crew, Hospitality and Catering, Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy among others are another option. Qualifications gained through these vary but include NVQs, City and Guilds, BTECs and Apprenticeships, depending on what you want to achieve. If you want to do something practical that encompasses theory and prepares you for Higher Education or employment, then a range of Applied courses are available including the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy which trains students who wish to start their own business. Lecturers, Student Ambassadors and the Student Services Team will be on hand to help you make an informed decision about where to take your studies.
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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education
post prom
blues
Prom, parties, sunny days, rainy days, college acceptances, making the most of the time off: Summer 2011 is almost over. words • lizzie king
I
remember the first thing to hit me when I got home after Prom was relief that I actually had some feeling left in my feet after all the dancing I had participated in that long, wonderful night. Then came the disappointment that the night was pretty much over, that many of the friends I’d made in the past 5 years I may never see again, oh, and that I’d never get to wear my beautiful dress again. The overriding emotion though was pride; pride that we’d all made it this far through good and bad, survived 5 years of secondary school and that we went out with a bang. In the weeks to follow it became evident that post prom blues had well and truly hit us all, and we all started suffering
from some sort of school sickness or withdrawal symptoms; when almost all my conversations started with reminiscing of the “good old days” and ending with promises to meet up and catch up on all the gossip. As my feet began to recover and Prom night became just a memory, worries soon began to focus on our GCSE results and the date we receive them loomed ever closer. To avoid being swallowed by nerves I began filling up my days and going out more and more just so I didn’t sit at home and worry, and when the subject arose it was all a matter of reassuring myself and my friends that we’d tried our best and now it was all in the hands of fate. It seems so surreal and terrifying to know that the very foundations of our futures are
Calshot Activities Centre is the perfect late-summer destination for adventure-seeking families. With the school holidays over it’s a great time to try a new activity while the water is still warm and the sun’s still shining. Why not have a go at Dinghy Sailing, Windsurfing, Canoeing or Powerboating. On land you can try Rock Climbing, Skiing, Snowboarding, Track Cycling and Archery. Courses run for all ages and all abilities, from 90 minutes to full weekend. Some courses with a “Family” designation are adult courses open to any family member to book onto, and they’re a great way for the family to try an activity together. For more regular participation, there are several clubs based at Calshot. More information: Tel 023 8089 2077, email: Calshot.ac@hants.gov.uk Web: www.calshot.com
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
contained within those flimsy little envelopes, just writing about it has made me nervous all over again. But this is all sounding far too negative! Its not all bad news, I can’t wait till September to start college, I am ready for this next chapter in my life that is completely mine to write. Of course it’s all very intimidating but there’s nothing to do but embrace it. We’ve spent the last year, or more, preparing for this moment; attending college open days, interviews and auditions and for some of us, like me, agonising hours deciding on where to go and what subjects to take so now’s the time to take the plunge and leap into the future. l Editors Note: As we went to press Lizzie received her results. 5 A’s and 6 B’s. Well done Lizzie!
Celebrating Success at City College CITY College Southampton is celebrating this summer after receiving more great news about its success rates, giving further proof of its phenomenal turnaround. Last September City College was listed in the top 10 per cent of general further education colleges in the country for its success rates and had further cause for celebration when it unveiled its £48m campus redevelopment. The development gives students the ability to experience handson and academic learning in the best possible environment, using equipment that is used in workplaces across the world. New facilities include a 240 seat professional theatre fitted with the latest professional equipment, fully-functional restaurant and kitchens that are open to the public, a professional hair and beauty salon, media suites filled with around £1m worth of industrystandard equipment and its own TV studio and top of the range engineering, electrical and construction workshops. Just a few months after the opening of the new facilities, the college received its best ever Ofsted report, which highlighted the huge improvements that have been made over the last four years. The college was deemed ‘good’ across the board, with some outstanding features. This summer the college is celebrating yet again after being told it has the top success rates for 16 to 18 year olds in the local area for general further education colleges. 09/10 National Success Rates tables compiled by The Data Service show that City College’s success rates for 16 to 18 year olds on all courses stand at 83 per cent, putting it ahead of all other general further education colleges in the local area.
Looking ahead to the new academic year, City College is adding A levels to its growing offering for students. From September, learners will be able to study A levels in the following subjects, alongside their vocational studies: l Business studies l English language l Film and TV studies l General studies l Leisure studies l Maths l Use of Maths l Photography l Physical education The A levels will allow students to underpin the practical knowledge they develop on vocational courses, boost their UCAS points and gain a competitive edge when applying for jobs. Visit www.southampton-city.ac.uk to hear success stories from City College’s students and to see a behind the scenes video showing the wide range of opportunities available for 16-18year-olds. Alternatively, see for yourself at one of the college’s forthcoming Open Events on October 11, October 12, November 10 or June 14. All events run from 5.30 to 7.30pm.
The data also shows that City College is the 4th best performing GFE college in the country for all ages and courses.
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futurethoughts
the final
crumb We all know about planning for retirement, about being prepared financially so we can provide for all our needs through our later years and remain independent, in safe and familiar surroundings until the day that we drop dead, ideally in our arm chair with a minimum of fuss, and having been enjoying a full life right up until the moment that we stopped for what was to be our last cup of tea and digestive biscuit. words • fiona cooke
H
mmm. How often does life work out to include that last digestive? Yes, many of us will be financially secure in our retirement. But (and it is a big but) how many will still be fit and active up until the final crumb? When we start our retirement we are hopefully still physically and mentally able. We can maintain our home and garden, shop, drive, deal with the day to day challenges and even complete government forms if necessary (well, maybe not – have we ever been able to manage them?) I don’t know about anyone else, but my head is firmly in the sand when it comes to thinking about what may or may not be in thirty or forty year’s time (I am fifty one) but I do know that at this moment I do not want to think that I will be a burden on my family. Yet the reality is that, as the years pass, we gradually decline physically, the garden becomes more than we can cope with. We probably can’t see the cobwebs much less stretch up to banish them, shopping in large supermarkets becomes daunting, and whilst most of us will always be twenty in our heads, our bodies will reach that age where we cannot manage what was once so easy. Eventually the time will come when we will mostly be confined to our home in need of personal care and a great deal more practical support. Our independence will be lost. Yes, we will be in our own homes, but we will be reliant on others, quite often strangers, for our most basic needs. (I am
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actually looking forward to some aspects of this stage, namely having my meals cooked for me and being able to sit in my chair and issue orders. I try this now with my children, but they ignore me.) There has been a lot of talk in the media recently about the system of care for the elderly. There can be little doubt that a crisis point is being reached and massive changes are needed. My experience, from working with my clients who use carers, is that the carers themselves are wonderful. They are dedicated, conscientious, and want only to do the best for their clients. However many also operate to timescales which necessitate them rushing from one client to another, and in some cases only being able to address the more urgent needs, whilst having to ignore others. I believe that the problem is not one that can be addressed only by more funding and improved services. We desperately need to get back to living as part of a community – as our parents and previous generations did – David Cameron’s Big Society is something which we had, and then lost in the decades since the war. Again I believe that we all have a responsibility here. This is something which cannot, and will not, be solved by just the Government. This is an issue which will impact on most of us one day; we all grow old. We live in a fractured society. Many no longer have our family living around the corner, or even in the same part of the country. I had a discussion with a friend recently about what you do when your
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
parent reaches their later years. His view was that you should move them in with you, whether it was an idea that was welcomed by the parent or not. My view was that most of the elderly want to remain independent, and this is what keeps them going. Once they move to an environment where they are no longer in control, and are effectively dependent, they decline. However this does not mean that they do not want, or need, company and support. For the family this then can become an issue – most have busy lives, and having the parent live with them is the only way they can give the time they would like to. So the solution has to come from the community. Some of my clients have fantastic neighbours, who shop for them, cut their grass, check on them and, more importantly, are there for a chat over a cuppa. There are other clients who do not have that support, they are isolated, sometimes scared, sometimes suffering and, above all, lonely. Loneliness is the greatest punishment that we inflict on our elderly and, for many of them, all that is needed is half an hour or simply the knock on the door that says someone cares. Passing on kindness is a path we could take – if I can spare my neighbour the half hour a day I cannot give my parent (who lives abroad), then I hope that my father’s neighbour will be doing the same for him. The wonderful thing about our elderly is that many are so grateful for so little. Just being told that an hour or so of cleaning and having the time to talk makes a difference in someone’s life is, to me, worth far more than the money I earn. I do believe that planning for our retirement should include giving some thought to how we are going to manage when we are less able, and that we should start building relationships with the people who can help us before we really need them and then, hopefully, we can then really enjoy our final digestive. l
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
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SATURDAY 5th NOVEMBER LOCKSWOOD COMMUNITY CENTRE LOCKS HEATH 10am until 3pm - free parking
• Usborne Books • Craft Stalls • Cake Stalls • Phoenix Cards • Jewellery • Tombola & Raffle plus many more To book a stall contact Vanessa Eden On 01329 666916 / 07880 926751
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.
Choose the Titchfield Cattery
The Titchfield Cattery is a small and friendly boarding cattery situated on the edge of Titchfield, just a few minutes from Junction 9 of the M27. The cattery opened in May 2009, and the owners take pride in its bright and modern UPVC pens, and the high level of care provided. Each pen has a fully insulated and heated sleeping area, and covered outdoor space where guests can watch the wildlife in the garden, and breathe healthy fresh air. Food, litter, bedding, scratching post and toys are provided, and there are no hidden extra costs, eg. administration of medication, grooming. The all-inclusive price is only £10 per day, with discounts for multiple cats and long-stay bookings. Please telephone or email to check availability and arrange a viewing. *15% off Winter Bookings from 1st Nov 2011 – 29th March 2012 (excludes 24th Dec 2011 – 2nd Jan 2012. Spring Half Term & Easter Holidays.) Tel: 01329 849 229 Email: enquiries@thetitchfieldcattery.com www.thetitchfieldcattery.com
We guarantee to beat any other quote by 5%
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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MOBILE CAR PAINTWORK SERVICE LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ★ 100% colour match ★ Surface scratches removed from as little as £30
FIND U SO
Yell.comN
★ Alloy wheel refurbishment ★ Bumper scuffs and panels repainted ★ Dents removed ★ Fully insured For a FREE Quote contact Ian Smith
t: 02392 254 239 m: 07891 298046 e: fastest2008@btinternet.com w: www.scuffs2scratches.freeindex.co.uk
LJL Services Limited has been established as an accountancy, tax and business advisory practice in Gosport, Hampshire, for almost 20 years. We offer a comprehensive range of services to help business and private clients. Our specialist areas include:
❱ Accounts ❱ Bookkeeping ❱ B usiness tax compliance and planning, including capital gains tax and corporation tax ❱ Business start-ups ❱ Business strategy ❱ Compa ny secretarial and registered office services
❱ Co nstruction Industry Scheme (CIS)
❱ Payroll services ❱ P ersonal tax compliance and planning, including capital gains tax and inheritance tax
❱ VAT For a free, no obligation quote, please contact us.
Our expert accountancy, tax and business advisory services are complemented by a client-focused approach that means that we happy to work when and where it suits our clients and we also offer fixed fees, for certainty over costs, and flexible payment arrangements.
01329 848748 Fax: 01329 848644 ☎ Email: info@ljlservices.co.uk Web: www.ljlservices.co.uk LJL Services Limited, Unit 14, Gosport Business Centre, Frater Gate, Aerodrome Road, Gosport, Hampshire, PO13 0FQ
CARS • MOTORCYCLES • HORSE BOXES • VANS
your golden years Complete home help and companionship in later life If you or an older relative is looking for help in the home then call Your Golden Years. Whatever we do in our home we will do in yours! We also specialise in offering companionship and support, which can be particularly reassuring for families who live some distance from their relative. “Your Golden Years has given back to my 86 year old father his dignity and independence. I cannot recommend Your Golden Years too highly – quality service at an affordable price.” Miss Madeleine A. Moore Lunch Menu £19.95 per person • Dinner Menu £22.95 per person
For a trusted helping hand call Your Golden Years on
Telephone 01329 289563
66…
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
communitynews END OF SUMMER BALL Featuring a dance demonstration by the present UK Professional Latin American champions; Oleksii Ivanets and Lisa Bellinger-Ivanets. With compere 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 8pm. Tickets just £12.50 and available from Barry Sears on 02392 529768. SING FOR WATER The Big Splash Community Choir after just 9 weeks of rehearsal, 50 local people who have never performed together before, sing in exquisite harmony at a concert to raise money for Water Aid. The Big Splash Choir is led by Fiona Funnell, singer/song writer and choir leader and she has been running ‘Sing for Water’ choirs for the past seven years. This year the choir will be raising the roof with songs from Nigeria, South Africa, Georgia and the UK. The songs are uplifting and infectious. Other performers include The Slow Arrangers Ukulele Band and a vocal quintet. During the interval, light snacks and drinks will be available as well as a variety of other curiosities such as face painting, CD’s and a raffle. ‘Sing for Water’ supports WaterAid’s life-saving projects in India, Burkina Faso, Ghana and Malawi bringing clean water, improved sanitation and hygiene education to thousands of people. St Mary’s Church, (next to City College) Southampton, Saturday 17th September at 8pm. If you would like more information, visit the website at www.FionaFunnell.co.uk NEARLY NEW SALE Fareham & District National Childbirth Trust (NCT) have quality second hand clothes, Toys and equipment for babies and children. Saturday 24th September 2011, Titchfield Community Centre, Mill Street, Titchfield, 10am - 11.30am Priority Entrance to NCT members on production of valid membership card. Seller’s registration from 1st August 2011. Call 0844 2436130, email FarehamNCT_NNS@yahoo.co.uk or www.nct.org.uk/in-your-area/fareham/ farehamnns. WI AT TITCHFIELD The new season of meetings of the Titchfield Abbey WI will start on Tuesday 13 September at 9.30 am at Titchfield Community Centre, with a talk by David Lee on “The History of Wessex Film and Sound Archives”. We always welcome visitors and newcomers to our meetings on the second Tuesday morning of each month, to meet some of the members and hear about some of our many activities, which include rambling, gardening, book clubs and craft as well as day visits out during the year and theatre trips. Tea and coffee is always available.
September
community news
Your essential guide to all the local news and events in your community
A MUSICAL EVENING AT BROOKFIELD COMMUNITY SCHOOL This year’s popular concert, organised by the Western Wards Christian Fellowship, will as ever present a wonderful evening of many musical styles given by the immensely talented young musicians of Brookfield School, and will take place on Saturday 15th October at the School, 7pm for 7.30 pm In the interval cold nibbles, wine and soft drinks will be served. Tickets, which will be available from early September, will again cost £10 for adults and £5 for children aged 12 and under. They can be had from Paul Cope (01489 573808) and Carole Ross at Brookfield School (01489 576335). The good cause to be supported is ShelterBox, which sends out boxes containing tents and survival equipment to disaster areas wherever they occur. A contribution will also go to the School’s UK/African schools music project “Global Voices”.
GIBB REUNION The second reunion of the MS Gibb will be held at Salterns Working Men’s Club at Warsash on Friday 16th September with music and a ploughman’s supper. Tickets are just £6 and are available from Brenda Brian 01489 574144 or June and Len on 01489 601576. THE KING AND I Fareham Musical Society is putting on ‘The King and I’ which will run from Tuesday 20th – Saturday 24th September at Ferneham Hall. Tickets are available from www.fernehamhall.co.uk or by calling their box office on 01329 824 864.
IF YOU HAVE A LOCAL EVENT You wish to promote then please contact us at info@solentlife.co.uk
PUTTING ON THE RITZ ‘Ritz’ Style Cream Tea to be held for charity on Friday 16th September. An open house for the ‘Ritz’ style cream tea is being held at Bursledon Village Hall, Long Lane, Bursledon from 2.00pm until 4.00pm. The tea will include sandwiches, scones with jam and cream and a selection of cakes. Tickets are priced at £10 each and are available from Sara on 07828168700. The tea is being held to raise funds for the Countess Mountbatten hospice in West End. SHUTTLECOCKS With membership at just £10, J9 Badminton is looking for new members to play in Sunday matches at Meadowside Leisure Centre at Whiteley. Call Sylviane Thomas on 01489 579791 or 07770590618 for further details.
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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Business Directory Accountants
Blinds
JACKY GREGORY ACA Chartered Accountants Accounting, Payroll, Reporting & Taxation Sole Traders, Partnerships & Limited Companies
FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION
Tel: 01489 885491
PETER E. KING
Builders
Sunguard Blinds Ltd Venetian • Conservatories Roman • Roller • Vertical
All Blinds Made to Measure Truly Unbeatable Prices For a free quote please call:
01489 577915
or
07984 811908
Builders
Accounts & Taxation Services for the small business.
Tel: 01489 579191
Appliance Repairs NO CALL OUT CHARGE DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS
The Village Chimney Sweep l Cowls l Chimney Pots l Stove Chimney
Liners
Design & Build Land Purchase Project Management
GET IT SWEPT NOW AVOID THE AUTUMN RUSH
Paul Clements
Tel: 01489 578541 Mobile: 07540 841022
www.cleanerchimneys.co.uk Cleaner Chimneys Reduce Risk of Chimney Fire
Competitive ~ Extremely Reliable Honest
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
TUMBLE DRYERS OAP DISCOUNT DISHWASHERS
T.J. Mitcheson BUILDING SERVICES
COOKERS WASHING MACHINES SAME DAY SERVICE NO VAT NEW MACHINES SUPPLIED & FITTED FAMILY RUN BUSINESS
Call: 01489 588832 07816 288841
• Extensions • Garages • Decking • New homes from planning to completion
DISCOUNT WITH THIS ADVERT
Free Estimates
Cycle Repairs
Computer Services
CYCLE
Silk Computing
REPAIRS
PC Tuition and Maintenance
• Repairs, Troubleshooting, Upgrades & Tuition • No Fix, No Fee Tel: 01489 580124 Mobile: 07885 175550
www.silkcomputing.co.uk
Nigel Tidman - Mobile Service Experienced & Friendly Mechanic • Same day repairs available • Service £40 • Collected & delivered to your door • Some 2nd hand bikes bought & sold
• Conservatories • Patios
10%
Do you have a computer? Not sure how it works? Do you want it explained in plain English?
* Fault Finding * Training * Software Installations * Virus Removal * Broadband & Wireless Set-up * Upgrades * PC’s Built to Your Specifications
Tel 01489 572583 Mob 07771 783822 - Between 8am and 8pm -
Cleaning Services
Free computer advice available 9am - 9pm, Mon - Sat
PLEASE CALL MIKE ON:
07958 410101 01489 578476
TEL: 01489 571694 MOB: 07771 925421
AREAS COVERED: Fareham, Stubbington, Lee-On-Solent, Gosport & Portchester
Tel: 01489 662012 Mob: 07833 323992
www.for-matt.com * enquiries@for-matt.com
advertise your business here?… from as little as £30 per month.
Please contact us on
01489 583800 to find out more today!
68…
Cleaner Chimneys
Building Locally
Extensions & Renovations
ACCOUNTANT
Canterbury House, 58E Botley Road, Park Gate, SO31 1BB
LANGDALE
Chimneys
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
LOCAL WINDOW CLEANING SERVICES
AWS
CLEANING SERVICES LTD Domestic & Commercial uPVC/Gutter Cleaning Conservatory Roofs Cleaned Fully Insured Reliable & Trustworthy
01489 619279 07710 206541
Dog Grooming
Fencing
GHD Repairs
F&W Fencing Service with a style! Quality accessories
01489 576118 07795 056649
www.dollybags.co.uk 22G Middle Road, Park Gate, SO31 7GH
(Behind Sheila Hurst Florist)
Double Glazing
All types of Fencing Work New & Repairs No Job Too Small Competitive Rates
Please contact Chris for a free estimate Home: 01489 571214 Mobile: 07590 040506
Double glazing repair specialist v Misted & broken units replaced v Broken hinges & handles v Patio rollers v Locks for doors & windows v Supply & fit new windows v Doors & conservatories v Facias, soffits & cladding v All guttering replaced
Telephone Paul Graham on
07795 498889
Bishops Waltham, Southampton
Electricians
for further info or to arrange a repair. *If the casing is broken the cost of the repair will be £35.
Shoreline Fencing
• Discount Sheds made to Order • Repairs • Gates • Decking We will beat any written • Patios & Paving and quotation Much, Much More
N O VAT – Call N ow
Grab a Cab Airports, Seaports, Clubs Local & Long Distance Wheelchair and pushchair friendly
01329 825045
Garage Doors
Gardening Services
Dons Doors
Team Greens
www.donsgaragedoors.co.uk
E-mail: info@fwfencingltd.com
All Types of Quality Fencing Supplied & Erected, Including....
PG Windows
Broken GHD’s? Repair and reconditioning service for genuine GHD’s - £30* Fitting of a new lead • Cleaning the casing • 3 Month warranty on replacement parts • Reconditioned GHD’s from £50 Tel: Peter on 07779 243464
Taxi Services
• Manual • Automatic • Spares & repairs • Maintenance free • All leading brands supplied & fitted
023 8060 0027 Fax: 023 8060 0070
Unit 9 Vicarage Farm Business Park, Winchester Road, Fair Oak, Eastleigh, SO50 7HD
Grounds Maintenance Services Private and Commercial All Aspects of Hedge Work Target Pruning / Trimming Mowing and Brush Cutting Garden Maintenance Site Clearances Planting / Re-planting All Green Waste Disposed of
Steve Allen
Tel: 01489 578699 Mobile: 07850 332363
Fully Insured
info@shorelinefencing.co.uk www.shorelinefencing.co.uk
Tel: 07983 622747 01489 588533
Florist
admin@teamgreenstreeservices.com
THE FRUIT & FLOWER BASKET
Est. 1980
GHH Electrical Services EAL Qualified Part P Electrician
All electrical work in the home or garden Everything from new lights to new fuse boxes Additional telephone/aerial points FULLY INSURED - NO JOB TOO SMALL Call 01489
578111 or 07876 212766
Your local florist & greengrocer. Quality Floristry with Local, National and International Delivery Local Produce & Home Delivery Service
Tel/Fax:
01489 576764
Gardening Services
Green Fuse Gardens A reliable and efficient garden care service offering single, occasional or regular visits. For a free informal chat, in your garden, telephone David White on:
07973 326157 • Grass Cutting • Hedge Trimming • Pruning • Planting
Solent Garage Doors S
G
THE PREMIER GARAGE DOOR SPECIALIST
D
GARAGE DOORS SUPPLIED & FITTED
• MAINTENANCE FREE DOORS • UP AND OVER DOORS • ROLLER DOORS • SIDE HUNG DOORS • SECTIONAL DOORS • AUTOMATION TO NEW AND EXISTING DOORS • REPAIRS - SPRINGS CABLES - LOCKS ETC. FOR ALL MAKES OF DOORS.
DJO Services - Home & Garden - Decorating & General Repairs - Clean, Tidy & Reliable - Free Estimates Please ring 01489
482855
All Aspects of Hard & Soft Landscaping
FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE OR ADVICE PHONE CHRIS ON 07500 926558
• Patios & Decking • Pergolas & Pathways • Fencing • Water Features
3 OAKTREE GARDENS, HEDGE END, SOUTHAMPTON, SO30 4AP EMAIL: SOLENTGARAGEDOORS@YAHOO.COM
Jonathan Pearman: 07974 195874 William Pearman: 07793 116017 escapes@hotmail.co.uk
TEL: 01489 786273 or 07500 926558
98 FUNTLEY ROAD, FUNTLEY, FAREHAM, HAMPSHIRE. PO17 SEE
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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Business Directory General Maintenance
Gutter Cleaning
GUTTER CLEAN SOUTHERN THE REACH & WASH SYSTEM
Home Maintenance
Alan Fletcher
Home Maintenance
Kitchen & bathroom refurbishments, plastering, coving, reskims, roof repairs, fascias and guttering, fencing and painting. No job too small Tel: 01329 317187 Mob: 07796 221630
• Fully guaranteed • Fully insured • Gutters Cleaned Out • Fascias & Soffits Cleaned • Block Paving Cleaned & Re-sanded • Patios & Paving Sealed • Patios & Drives Cleaned • Decking Cleaned & Restained • Any Pressure Cleaning
Landscaping
Plasterer
FAIRVIEW LANDSCAPES PATIOS - DRIVEWAYS - PAVING BLOCK PAVING RESTORATION (CLEANED, RESANDED, RE-SEALED)
FENCING - DECKING HEDGE TRIMMING CONCRETE BASES - REPAIRS
15 YEARS EXPERIENCE & FULLY INSURED
FOR A FREE QUOTATION CALL
01489 881 110 07540 878 089 Music Tuition
Piano & Keyboard Lessons
One to one tuition Beginners to Advanced All Ages Under 7’s Special Tuition All Types of music taught, Classical and Jazz etc.
Tel: 01489 559214 Mob: 07810 832667 Email: fairviewlandscapes@yahoo.co.uk
Dan Morgan
All Aspects Of Garden Maintenance & Landscaping
• Hedge Trimming • Pruning • Patios • Border Maintenance • Decking • Pergolas • Fencing
Mobile: 07725 210869 Home: 01489 589516
Gutters Cleared
We help everyone to attain their potential in a relaxed and friendly environment. A GIFT of lessons for someone special could be the start of years of enjoyment and fun.
Carpenter School of Music
Also:
UPVC conservatory & window cleaning. Gutter repairs & replacement.
☎ 01489 789541
Landscaping Graham Thomas
where reputation matters
www.highvac.co.uk
CALL MARK 023 8040 2221 / 07762 807824
0800 955 0888 14 Cedar Close, Bursledon, Soton
70…
Landscape & Construction Driveways, Patios, Paths & Walls Turfing, Fencing & Decking Ponds, Water Features & Drainage Block Paving Specialist 20 Years Experience Fully Insured, Free Quotations
Tel: 01329 315409/07970 780490 www.grahamthomasonline.co.uk
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
CLEAN, TIDY, RELIABLE
CALL JEFF ON 01489 576209 OR 07799 498494 FOR A FREE QUOTE
Plumbing/Heating G.T. Services DOMESTIC GAS & PLUMBING, Gas Appliances Installed, Serviced & Repaired BOILERS • CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS WATERHEATERS • FIRES • COOKERS
BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS POWERFLUSHING - LANDLORDS CERTIFICATES FREE ESTIMATES
LOCAL FAMILY RUN BUSINESS
Proctor Plumbing & Heating Services For All Your Plumbing & Heating Requirements, From a Dripping Tap to Bathroom Installations & Power Flushing Fully Insured - Free Quotations Tel: Dave 01329 847056 Mob: 07852287476
Painter/Decorator
All types of decorating, paper-hanging a speciality, no job too small. Public liability insurance held.
FREE ESTIMATES
For a professional service with over 30 years experience call: Tel: 01489 582655 Mob: 07771 970294
Decorating Services Est. 23 years
=
using the reach vacuum
www.mccsm.co.uk
ALL PLASTERING WORK UNDERTAKEN - INTERNAL/EXTERNAL
Gas Safe Registered
KEVIN TAYLOR
Gutters Cleared
JEFF MARRIOTT
01329 845279
Professional Decorating Services Our Record 100% Exam Passes (including many distinctions) Festival Cup Winners
PLASTERER
•Internal/External •Paperhanging •Insurance Work a Speciality
Call Derek on 01489 581 269 • 07780 910 799
Richard Nicholson PAINTING & DECORATING Dulux Select Decorators
FREE ESTIMATES NO OBLIGATION
TEL/FAX 01489 581168 MOBILE 07917 133223
COLIN SHARPE
PLUMBING & HEATING Boiler Servicing, Central Heating, Dripping Taps, Landlord Safety Checks, Blocked WCs, Bathroom Suites
All Plumbing Work Undertaken 01489 787647 07775 506891
PURPLE
PLUMBING & HEATING LTD
All aspects of plumbing & heating undertaken • OAP Discounts for boiler servicing • Boiler changes/replacements • Reasonable rates • Power flushing • Free estimates • Local and reliable • Bathrooms
233959
W.R.A.S Approved 01489 691541 07711 812966 or 07977 807057
advertise your business here?…
from as little as £30 per month.
Please contact us on
01489 583800 to find out more today!
Plumbing/Heating
Plumbing/Heating
Tree Services
Paving
A. W. PAVING Turning Dreams into Reality with complete peace of mind
COMBI BOILER INSTALLATIONS:
Anthony George Withey Block Paving Specialists
(PRICES INCLUDE STANDARD FLUE, PROGRAMMER AND SCALE REDUCER) COMPLETE CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS FROM:
Drives • Paths • Patios • 10 year Marshalls guarantee • Member of Hampshire County Council business Standards Partnership
£2995
Tel: 01489 557268 Mob: 07958 678811 Email:awpaving@yahoo.co.uk www.aw-paving.com B
Roofing
FID E N
Roofing
For all your interior & exterior improvement projects Painting & Decorating Tiling & Flooring Carpentry • Plastering Garden Maintenance/Clearance Interior Woodwork & Floorboards Furniture Restoration For a professional service call 07596 989422 or
02380 403270
Email: mtjallin@hotmail.com Insured by Simply Business
Steve Allen NPTC Qualified Fully Insured
Tel: 07983 622747 01489 588533 admin@teamgreenstreeservices.com
Upholstery & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
ROOFING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
New Roofs, Roof Repairs to
• Flat Roofs • Tiled Roofs • Slate Roofs Etc • Storm Damage • Chimneys • Valleys & Ridges • UPVC Fascias & Guttering • Re-pointing Of Brickwork All Aspects Of Property Maintenance Over 20 Yrs Experience Fully Insured
FLAT ROOFING SPECIALIST Tel: 01489 583486 or Mob: 07813 087210
COMPLETE ROOFING SERVICE ALL ASPECTS COVERED
AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
Roof Repairs : New Roofs Flat Roofs : Extensions Tiling/Slating : Lead Work Re-pointing : Guttering Fascia/Soffits : Insurance Work Emergency Call Outs 20 years experience & fully insured All areas covered
Tel 01489 576020 Mob: 07774 552349
www.samgrayroofing.biz
holstery Speciali st -Up Re Local Company
ROOFING WORK
● Restore your favourite furniture
Gutters • Loft Conversions
● Great choice of latest fabrics ● Free home visits and quotations
UPVC Fascia & Soffits • Velux Windows Dorma’s etc • Insurance Work
MAINTENANCE WORK Block Paving • Fencing
Garden Decking • Garden Walls
Re-Pointing • General Property Repairs
FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES
01489 574306 • 07960 947971 jands.roofing@yahoo.co.uk
BJ DAWKINS PROPERTY SERVICES
» Crown Reductions » Crown Lifts / Felling » Target Pruning » Dismantling » Hedge Work » Stump Grinding » Emergency Tree Work Undertaken
s
01329 841416 or 07876 194823
N
E
CO
Call Paul on
H
Property
Building Plots & Houses in need of Renovation in Warsash and the surrounding area.
Y WIT U
C
M: 0778 9394486 T: 023 8083 9211 E: liam_omahony@hotmail.com W: www.lpssouthampton.co.uk
REQUIRED
Tree Services
All aspects of tree work
PLUMBING • HEATING • GAS SERVICES
Strawberry Homes
Team Greens
HIGH PERFORMANCE FLAT ROOFING STRIPPING & RE-DECKING GENERAL ROOFING & MAINTENANCE FULLY INSURED NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL
Call Joe on:
01489 584 550 07780 877955 1 Mulberry Lane, Sarisbury Green
to its former glory
15% Discount on orders placed in August
Southern Contract Furniture LTD Unit 22, Park Gate Business Centre Chandlers Way, Park Gate, SO31 1FQ
☎ 01489 576555 Will Writers
Solent Wills A member of The County Wills Group
Not Written Your Will yet? Don’t put off the essential job any longer. Now it could not be easier with a confidential and professional Will Writing Service in the area. Instructions are taken in the comfort of your own home. Your family deserves the protection a legally binding Will can provide NOW also lasting power of attorney Don’t be tempted to put it off For prompt personal attention,
Tel: 0845 6200016 or 02380 403781
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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Local events across the Solent region.
on guide what’s
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
72…
REVIEW Something borrowed and something new! Tamsin Withers is the marketing guru for Southampton’s Nuffield Theatre and she told us of the exciting new season ahead and of a great Christmas show. “October sees Southampton playwright Maggie Nevill “The Nuffield is thrilled to present some terrifically team up with The Nuffield Theatre Company once again, exciting artists this autumn! An eclectic programme to premiere her lively and timely new play Alchemy includes contemporary classics, vibrant new writing, in the UK (20 – 29 Oct). A writer with real freshness thought-provoking drama, stunning contemporary and wit, whose work has been seen all over the world, circus and top comedy acts, as well as brilliant family Maggie has been described by The Telegraph as “a shows, charming children’s theatre and weekly sessions writer positively brimming with talent”. Alchemy in and workshops for all ages and abilities!” the UK follows the popular comedies The Shagaround “Some of our top choices in the Main House this season and The Grizzled Skipper, and looks with honesty, sassy include Bang Bang Bang (27 Sep – 1 Oct), a new play humour and heartfelt tenderness at the issues involved from Out of Joint – one of the UK’s leading theatre with being in and out of work in Britain today. (oh… companies, Speechless (4 – 8 Oct), a riveting new play and was it Banksy who painted the little girl with the from Shared Experience, inspired by the best-selling balloon?)” book The Silent Twins, Motet (3 – 5 Nov), a fabulous And, finally for this wonderful season as it reaches circus spectacle and great family entertainment for Christmas Tamisn kept the best for last. “Enter into all ages, and A Clockwork Orange (11 – 12 Nov) from a world of adventure and imagination for a magical Volcano Theatre – a radical company not seen in Christmas story that has been delighting the littlest Southampton before.” Tamsin explained. children and the biggest grown-ups for years and “Studio highlights include a feisty reworking of years - The Borrowers (24 Nov – 8 Jan). With music, Shakespeare’s Othello (14 – 17 Sep), and the return of jokes and fieldmice, this Christmas treat comes from the multinational storytelling company You Need Me with team behind 2010’s A Christmas Carol and 2009’s The Death Song (1 – 2 Nov). The Two Wrongies celebrate Wind in the Willows - one of The Independent’s Top 5 and re-interpret the classic double act in World of Christmas Shows!” Wrong (14 – 16 Nov) and highly acclaimed writer and performer Tom Wainwright presents the razor sharp satire Pedestrian (17 – 19 Nov). Apples and Snakes host For further information and bookings, another season of 451 performance poetry evenings (24 please call the Box Office on 023 8067 1771 or visit www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk, where full listings and Oct & 12 Dec) and Roy Hutchins brings the poems of online booking are available. Heathcote Williams to life with a theatrical flourish in Zanzibar Cats (21 – 23 Nov).”
• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
Music MUGENKYO TAIKO DRUMMERS This Euro-version of traditional Japanese drummers will be on tour in the UK with their full concert of powerful taiko rhythms, huge drums, dramatic choreography, haunting bamboo flute & playful percussion, presented in a theatrical stage show. They have been the driving force behind the growing taiko movement in the UK since their establishment in 1994. Through years of rigorous touring as Europe’s leading taiko drum group, Mugenkyo have developed a gritty passionate style that is uniquely their own, retaining the traditional spirit of taiko yet creating a contemporary sound and a modern stage show that has captivated audiences everywhere. If you have never experienced the thrill and beat of taiko then this will be a real treat and something to be experienced before you can describe it. THE BERRY THEATRE, Eastleigh Saturday 8th October at 7:30 pm. Ticket prices: £16 / £12, Box Office: 01489 799 499 Website: www.theberrytheatre. co.uk TALKING HEADS charity music gig All acts are playing for free and the venue is free so 100% of moneys raised are going to charity. Since early 2007 rifles battalions have been deployed almost continually on operations, the intensity and ferocity of which has cost the lives of 54 riflemen killed in action with a further 290 seriously injured. Of these, in excess of 40 have sustained life changing physical injuries which will require long term assistance. For example, the regiment now has 25 amputees, 3 of whom are triple amputees and 8 are
Theatre & Events Children double, as well as two riflemen who are completely blinded and three more in neurological units. It is anticipated that many veterans will suffer from psychological problems at some stage in the future. These heroes are local to Solent Life and among the more contemporary music acts The Bugle Platoon from The 4 Rifles-Bulford will be playing in full dress uniform. TALKING HEADS, Portswood, Southampton, 24th September. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets £8.00 - £10.00 on the door. www.thetalkingheads. co.uk SUBMARINE ANNIVERSARY Live Banjo and Ukulele’s groups will be performing at a one off special day – the Arnold Forster Banjo Fest to commemorate the 110th anniversary of the launch of the very first Royal Navy submarine Holland 1 and the beginning of the submarine service. Top UK banjo artist Richard Collins will be performing with Dalebilly alongside Portsmouth’s own uke orchestra, the Pompey Pluckers. Bill Sainsbury, Event Manager at the Royal Navy Submarine Museum said, “Banjo and the ukulele were very popular instruments in the early 20th century. Their size allowed them to fit easily into a submariners’ kit. Holland 1, the first British Royal Navy submarine was launched 110 years ago and her commander Arnold Forster was known for his love of the banjo, so it seemed fitting to commemorate the beginnings of the submarine service with an afternoon of Banjo and Ukulele music featuring the leading Banjo musicians of today.” ROYAL NAVY SUBMARINE MUSEUM, Gosport, Sunday 2nd October. For more information visit www.submarine-museum. co.uk
ALL THE FUN OF THE FAIR Following a record breaking West End season at the Garrick Theatre where it was nominated for BEST NEW WEST END MUSICAL, TV’s newest East Ender star, DAVID ESSEX, stars in his own musical set in a world of an authentic East End funfair. Inspired by David’s album ‘All the Fun of the Fair’, the original storyline is a heartwarming tale about an East End fairground family with David playing funfair owner ‘Levi Lee,’ recently widowed and father of a rebellious teenage son, ‘Jack.’ Dodgems and motorbikes, crafty cons and candy floss, fairground horses and fights, along with romance and rock and roll mean you’re sure to go on a rollercoaster of a ride, but beware… all is not always fun at the fair! MAYFLOWER THEATRE, Southampton, 11th to 15th October. The Mayflower Box Office 02380 711811, online at mayflower.org.uk or in person from the Mayflower ticket shop in The Marlands, Southampton. CINDERELLA AUDITIONS Are you aged 7 years or above? Would you like to appear in this year’s Kings Theatre pantomime? NEW PANTOMIME PRODUCTIONS Ltd. is holding CHILDRENS DANCE AUDITIONS and they say the more the merrier when it comes to those wanting to attend. With an audition time of 9.00 am it is boys & girls aged 7 yrs and over Max. Height 5’2” and at 12.00 pm Boys & girls to audition as Seniors Min. height 5’2” and everybody should wear clothes which are suitable for auditions. All candidates will be auditioned in groups and taught a short dance routine. Those auditioning should ensure that, if successful, they would be available to attend every
rehearsal and these start on Sunday 27th November, mainly after school and weekends Please be aware that this is a competitive dance audition and those who are successful will be chosen to perform as dancers in the pantomime. Please note that these positions are unpaid. KINGS THEATRE, Albert Road, Southsea on Sunday 18th September. www.kingssouthsea.com GOODWOOD REVIVAL With just a few weeks to go, Goodwood has confirmed an impressive line-up of over 70 star drivers and riders attending this year’s event. Well-known faces from most motor sport disciplines will be in action at this year’s Goodwood Revival, including Formula One stars, rally winners, endurance racing champions, tin top tearaways and top bikers; often competing in the most unlikely of machines. Expect to see Red Bull F1 team principal Christian Horner, Red Bull Chief Technical Director Adrian Newey, ex-Ferrari F1 driver Gerhard Berger, Jaguar’s 1988 Le Mans winner Andy Wallace, and Peugeot’s endurance ace Nicolas Minassian. Goodwood stalwarts Sir Stirling Moss, Sir Jackie Stewart, Murray Walker and Barrie ‘Whizzo’ Williams will also be in attendance. GOODWOOD CIRCUIT, West Sussex, 16th to 18th September. To order advance tickets for 2011 Goodwood Revival, please contact the Ticket Hotline: Telephone: 01243 755055. Email: ticket.office@ goodwood.com. Book online: www.goodwood.com/ motorsport
solentlife.co.uk • SEPTEMBER 2011 •
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ACROSS 7 Maritime port in South West of england. (7)
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12 Symbols. (5) 16 Yellowish cotton cloth from C18 China. (7)
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15 British noblemens territory. (8) 17 Flamable liquids once used as an anasthetic. (6)
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• SEPTEMBER 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
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