solentlife.co.uk
DECEMBER 2012
Jane Austen The Pride of Hampshire
NEW!
‘Members Only’ - meet your local clubs
Aldo Zilli
the man behind the celebrity Front cover image Scott Chalmers Photography . Model Missy Fatale
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intro | contents
welcome
18 30
DECEMBER 2012
Well, what a year this has been! The Queen’s spectacular Jubilee celebrations; the Olympic Games that proved to the world that this nation is still great and can put on a great party; and the Paralympics, which inspired everyone and demonstrated to all of us what can be achieved by will and determination. Throughout the Solent Life area the team have visited events and met people who have left us with lasting memories and in some cases lasting friendships. We are passionate about the communities that we serve and try to represent you all within the space that we have. In this last issue in 2012, of what has been a truly amazing year, we begin a new series of features called Members Only; where we will be visiting clubs across the region that cover everything from the popular activities and hobbies to the obscure. So if you belong to a club where you feel your activities will be of interest to our readership then get in touch. This year also saw the start of the Vendee Globe in November, a non stop solo round the world sailing race of approximately 28,000 miles. Our very own local lad Alex Thompson is currently up close to the leaders with Mike Golding who rescued Alex from a sinking yacht four years ago also in close quarters. It will be sometime in February when they return, hopefully all safe and well. Type in Vendee Globe on Google and open the link to follow the race.
DAVE HILL MANAGING EDITOR
NICK CLENCH PUBLISHER
All that remains is to wish all of you; our readers, advertisers, colleagues, associates, partners, friends and contributors, a very Merry Christmas and a happy, prosperous and hopefully peaceful New Year.
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in this issue… features 16… Member’s Only Lock Stock and Smoking Barrels at Fareham Clay Target Club
26… Interview with Award-winning Celebrity Chef Aldo Zilli
Solent Life Magazine Tel… 01489 583800 • Fax… 01489 564549 Online… www.solentlife.co.uk • Email… info@solentlife.co.uk
30… The Pride of Hampshire Celebration preparation at Jane Austen’s House in Chawton
WEBB HOUSE, 20 BRIDGE ROAD, PARK GATE, HAMPSHIRE, S031 7GE
34… Farewell for Rio Peter Snow CBE supports the Jubilee Sailing Trust
theteam
40… The Great Bake Off Baking Masterclass at the New Forest Cookery School
Editorial
Dave Hill – Managing Editor Tel… 01489 583743 • Email… davehill@solentlife.co.uk David Rose-Massom – Senior Journalist Email… editorial@solentlife.co.uk Fiona Cooke – Contributing Writer Email… fiona@solentlife.co.uk
Advertising Sales
12… Artist Review
Sarah Kent Tel… 01489 584010 Email… sarah@solentlife.co.uk Barbara Smith Tel… 01489 583852 Email… barbara@solentlife.co.uk
Steve Walker Tel… 01489 583815 Email… steve@solentlife.co.uk
Design & Production Leanne Dodd – Senior Designer Adam Barnard – Online Designer Tel… 01489 583718 Email… design@solentlife.co.uk // Deadline for advertising copy & editorial for December issue: 14th December 2012 Published by Living Coast Media. © Copyright Solent Life 2012. 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.
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
regulars 8… The Walk Taking the air and scenery en route to Southsea Pier Great Scott! We get snap happy with local photography talent, Scott Chalmers
20… Coast & Country Bodgers & Bottomers! Meet local craftsmen Les Brannon and learn about his traditional coppicing ways
58… What’s On
Reviews, theatre and events coming your way
62… Out and About Photographic memories of events across the south
Join the fun
at Fareham Shopping Centre
Late night shopping every Thursday Most stores open until 7/8pm*
Christmas grotto open now Visit Santa with the kids
Enter our colouring competition
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
Local Girlguides make great Santa’s little helpers at Fareham Shopping Centre Santa’s little helpers have been hard at work in Fareham Shopping Centre’s Christmas grotto since its grand opening by the Mayor of Fareham Councillor Dennis Steadman and Mayoress Carole Steadman. The grotto, near Millets, is once again being run by volunteers from Girlguiding Hampshire East following its success last year when more than 2,000 children passed through its doors and over £4,500 was raised, which went towards supporting the young people in its groups. Young shoppers are welcomed to the winter wonderland by the Girlguide elves where they can tell Santa their Christmas wish and receive a gift. Visitors to Santa can also collect a special colouring competition booklet for a chance to win a family ticket to Ferneham Hall’s pantomime Cinderella. Fareham Shopping Centre has also launched its late night shopping season. Recognising that cramming in the last minute Christmas present buying isn’t always easy, the Centre aims to make its shoppers’ lives easier in the weeks before the big day by opening late. Many stores will be open until 7 or 8pm every Thursday and then late every night from 17th to 22nd December, some nights until 9pm. Visit www.farehamshopping.com for late night shopping and grotto opening times.
Wickham Square Gallery Wishing all our customers a merry christmas & happy new year
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
AWD Law has now officially been launched…
AWD Law, celebrated their official office opening on the 20th November, by inviting the Mayor and Mayoress of Fareham, Dennis and Carole Steadman to open their office. To mark their exciting and special occasion, they invited 2 Chinese Lions to perform a traditional Lion Dance. The Lion Dance symbols strength and good luck to the business. The evening was a great success and attended by over 60 local businesses who all joined together to celebrate their new venture. Left to Right: Oi-Yuyn Wong, Dennis Steadman (Mayor of Fareham), Carole Steadman (Mayoress) Paul Davies and Amanda Adamson.
AWD Law are able to offer a 10% discount (excluding disbursements) to all serving HM Forces and Police personnel. The three partners: Amanda Adamson, Oi-Yuyn Wong and Paul Davies have all been friends and work colleagues for many years and have all worked for large regional law firms. Their vision whilst setting up AWD Law was to create a traditional yet modern law firm that maintains family values. They aim to offer sound advice in a supportive and comfortable environment and provide their clients with the benefit of their 35 years combined experience in family law and conveyancing.
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
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the | walk
Christmas, as well as the celebration of the birth of Christ, is about family. Christmas Day, eating together, yes, praying together, and most of all enjoying each other’s company; Boxing Day is also about family but it is more about getting out of the house and doing something…
It can be calm, with a soft sea mist and millpond still waters, it can be wet and windy, breezy and bracing; but a walk along the promenade at Southsea is never boring. The day began with a warming hot chocolate at the Tenth Hole, a charming and popular café set next to the nine-hole pitch and putt. Plenty of places to park the car and a promenade wide enough for the children to try out their bikes or skates that they received the day before but have not yet had chance to properly fall off them. The pier these days sadly looks a little worse for wear, the white paint is peeling and the metalwork rusting, it now has a great fish and chip shop though, and hopefully someone will one day soon revamp it and take it back to its glory days. Beyond the amusement hall with its flashing machines and high tech virtual thrill rides the pier is now closed to the public. It is a sad thing that we have so few classic Victorian piers remaining; the work on South Parade Pier began in 1875 when Southsea was already a popular resort following the Victorian pastime of ‘taking the air’. The Pier was originally designed to be used by passengers boarding ferryboats to the Isle of Wight; its length was 1,950ft – long enough for steamers to dock and it was opened with great ceremony in November 1879 by Prince Edward of Saxe-Weimar. It is bordering on tragic to see such a wonderful edifice falling into such disrepair, and no longer fashionable or popular except by the summer hoards keen on putting coins into mechanical slots. It now stands almost abandoned and forlorn like a
Words & Images by David Rose-Massom 8…
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
depressed and forgotten lover. Let us hope she finds a new suitor soon! The sea was calm and merely whispered up onto the shingle as if revealing a secret; and yet on other days it rolls in and crashes onto the shore shouting about its arrival from the Isle of Wight across the way. Boats drift by, sailing close to the Forts that still sit brave and impregnable in the middle of the Solent, well almost impregnable if you ignore the fact that Spitbank Fort is now a wonderful retreat where guests will be standing behind glass and toasting with Champagne while watching the families enjoying the promenade and well wrapped against the winter chills. Strolling past the bright yellow shelters, where summer and winter people sit, take in the views and enjoy fish and chips, then just before the pointed roof of the Pyramids are the Rock Gardens, an oasis of plant, pond and waterfall. They were built during the years of the depression in the early 1920’s. At that time Central Government were giving loans and grants to local authorities for schemes that would provide jobs for the many unemployed. The area, originally covered with gorse, was prone to flooding and damage by the sea but the construction of the promenade that we now walk, did a great deal to prevent further flooding. A large number of mainly unskilled men, transformed the area and by setting out the area in an informal manner, straight lines were avoided. Large quantities of rock were imported directly from Cumberland and the huge boulders
the | walk
manhandled into position until the layout was eventually established. It remains a beautiful area to explore or just sit and ponder. Beyond the Blue Reef aquarium the opening into Portsmouth Harbour comes into view and again, no matter whether it is summer or winter, boats pass each other as they sail in and out of the safe haven. The fairground may not be considered the height of sophisticated seaside entertainment to some, but it is very much part of the character of the British seaside, and this one has a little ‘big’ dipper, colourful rides and noisy slot machines. With the fairground left behind promenaders arrive at one of the best parts of this walk, Old Portsmouth, with its great walls, stone towers, roofless Garrison Church and a mass of historical interest. Reaching Camber Quay there are pubs and cafes for refreshment and views of Gunwharf Quay and the towering and sculptural Spinnaker Tower to enjoy. Brightly lit during the dark hours of evening, draped in fog or cloud or just standing with a backdrop of blue sky it is an amazing sight. The walk can continue on round, down a narrow alley and around the harbour filled with fishing boats, into Gunwharf, but remember you still have to turn round and head back again to enjoy the return walk to the far end of Southsea. No doubt the hunger pangs will have set in again by now and it is time to head home for bubble-and-squeak, cold cuts of meat and pickles.
One of my favourite tasks as Senior Journalist with Solent Life is finding and exploring new walks and it is where I meet many of our lovely readers; and their dogs. If you have a favourite walk that you may like to see featured, assuming of course you want to share it with your fellow readers, send a few details to editorial@solentlife.co.uk and I may well explore it and feature it. Finally in the last issue of a very eventful and exciting 2012 may I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
www.southseapier.com/history Since researching this walk it has been announced that the pier at Southsea has become unsafe and has now been closed; this also means the wonderful new fish and chip shop has also had to close. They are hoping to reopen in the spring.
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
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WE ARE OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY FROM 12 NOON - 6PM CHRISTMAS MENU AVAILABLE 17TH - 31ST DECEMBER
AWARDED CURRY CHEF OF THE YEAR 2012 - 2013 It is the first award that Chef Kowsar Miah has won, and what a prestigious award to begin with; Curry Chef of the Year. The annual award is presented by one of the UK’s leading curry magazines. Kowser took over as chef from his father, who has successfully been in charge of the kitchens at MOWCHAK TANDOORI since 1989. His speciality dish, of which he is very proud, is tandoori murgh masallam, which consists of chicken, lamb mince and egg. After receiving his award Chef Miah said he was very happy and that the award ceremony was a most interesting experience as he got to see how the other competitors prepared their dishes.
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
solent | artist
Music can bring about many feelings, it can set a mood, calm frayed nerves, build excitement and release tensions and even - just be enjoyed; but, for this month’s featured artist it was the inspiration behind a new career…
T A . E . . R T G T O Words by David Rose-Massom
C S
“I have always been into music, and then took up photography with a little compact camera, so I could record some of the images when I was attending gigs of friends who were in bands.” Scott Chalmers was showing Solent Life his work, the work of a photographer who has only been seriously practicing his craft since 2008, and we were simply astounded at the diversity and quality of this passionate photographer. Scott is a family man, with a charming wife and a beautiful little daughter who gives him even more inspiration. He also has a full time job as in Architectural Technician and yet, he finds the time to produce images that are quickly getting him recognition and a whole range of commissions. “I met a serious photographer at a music festival and, although I was already taking a mass of images on my compact, he inspired me to look at photography a little more seriously,” he told us. “I threw myself into it right away after that festival; I played with film cameras for three months, which was good training for me, before realising that I could do so much more with digital format. It also became quite a good thing that being a lover of live music that there were suddenly concert tickets in return for photographs; free tickets for photos is always helpful!” For Scott, music was the launchpad as it gave him the opportunity to combine two hobbies, listening to live music and taking photographs, but then it led onto more work. “At one festival I was working a photo-booth for an independent music magazine and it was being run by a cabaret performer called Joe Black, I put photos of him on my internet social network page, and tagged it with his name, and suddenly I had 85 requests for cabaret work.” Check Scott’s website and it is easy to see why cabaret, and then burlesque, performers wanted him as their photographer. “I used some of the same techniques that I had already learned while photographing bands, but then realised I had to 12…
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
engage the artistes in a slightly different way, whereas I had been shooting groups and single members as part of those groups I now had to work with a single performer and get the very best out of them as an individual,” explained Scott. “The one constant with all my work is keeping the atmosphere. Some burlesque performers for example want part of their performance recorded while others want a portrait and just a hint of what they do. “The burlesque came about as a direct result of the cabaret work I was doing and that is a more complex genre as it is becoming a mainstream art-form and I need to reflect that in my images. With each genre I am not aware of doing things differently, with bands the work is a little more hurried and frantic maybe, whereas the cabaret and portraiture are taken at a bit slower pace; but for me being behind the lens always feels the same!” The more we looked through Scott’s work the more we realised the range and skill of the man behind that lens. One image of a tattooed rocker smoking a cigarette is full of power and yet it is a gentle portrait of one man. Yet in another image a thirties style Hollywood starlet gazes into a mirror, lit gently with one light and with a slight sepia haze to the picture, Scott manages to reproduce the glamour of the era, the innocence of the girl in the image while all the while maintaining the atmosphere and strength of the portrait. “When photographing gigs there is no rock-persona behind the lens, I remain as calm and collected as if I were in a studio photographing a fashion sequence,” he said, “If I had to sum up all my work collectively it would be atmospheric, whether that be at a rock gig or a portrait in the studio. With my subjects I am always mindful of their personal space, at a gig it is about
solent | artist
their performance and not about me and in the studio it is how to bring out the very best in the subject, not about my ego as a photographer. “Do I know if I have the shot? Even in the middle of a gig you get the feeling at some point that you have ‘the-shot’ in the camera; somebody once said if you see the shot through the viewfinder then you missed it with the camera, it is gone! The worse thing is when you are just standing in the audience and seeing a missed shot go by!” We asked Scott if he had an ambition with his photography. “I don’t have a target as such but I do know where I am going as a photographer, in recent work I have been heading more and more toward fashion shots. I love the shapes and form; and I strive to make the end shot look so simple and yet it is so complex and technically difficult to do that. I love the challenge
of getting the right model and the correct lighting and then you get that one good picture that looks as if it is a simple snapshot. “I also enjoy the post-production; it is a big part of what I do.” Scott said. “I airbrush for perfect skin tones and the like and it is usually the client’s request that I do that, but it is part of the whole process of producing an image that I enjoy.” As a fellow photographer it was a superb experience to meet Scott and view his catalogue of work and the greatest compliment one photographer can give another is the wish that we could have taken such a great image; and image after image brought out that desire. He may have only been a photographer for a few years but Scott Chalmers has a great eye and a great feel for atmosphere as well as empathy for the person in front of his lens, whatever the subject may be doing. ART FOCUS S P O N S O R S H I P
Our Artist Review is kindly sponsored by HISCOCK GALLERY 11 Stanley Street, Southsea, Hampshire, PO5 2DS 023 9282 5330. Creating quality with style
www.hiscockgallery.co.uk
www.scottchalmersphotography.co.uk 13…
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
Christmas Presents! We all give and receive each year but this year, why not make your gifts a little more personal. Everyone has mementoes lovingly stored away in a drawer – so why not get them out, get them framed and give them as gifts. Perhaps there’s a ticket from a favourite concert or gig, maybe a day pass from an attraction visited on holiday, a menu from a fabulous restaurant or even a flower or leaf that’s been dried. Medals from family members in the forces, beautifully framed, make a brilliant gift for a relative – and everyone has a much loved family heirloom that should be cherished and proudly displayed. It’s amazing what can be framed and how fantastic it can look and it will be a really unique present with meaning and thought too.
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PLEASE HELP OUR ANIMALS
To make sure our animals are well fed and cared for throughout the busy festive season and beyond
PLEASE HELP SUPPORT OUR WINTER WARMTH APPEAL Just £20 could help provide 40 meals for the animals here
Your gift will provide food and care for the many vulnerable, mistreated & unloved animals at the shelter some cheaply discarded like wrapping paper on Christmas morning Please send your donation to Vanessa Eden, Stubbington Ark Animal Shelter, 174-176 Ranvilles Lane, Fareham PO14 3EZ 01329 666916 (Cheques made payable to RSPCA Solent Branch)
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Please call 01329 558700 or email tracey.hillier@gracewell.co.uk
members only
Words & Images by David Rose-Massom
MEMBERS ONLY is a new section of Solent Life and will be an occasional series of articles on clubs or associations that specialise in specific activities and sports. To begin this series, we visited Fareham Clay Target Club, an organisation that was founded in 1929 and has almost 300 members – so why is it we had not heard of it before?
LOCK, STOCK AND SMOKING BARRELS Hit the clay as it flies through the air and it is known as a kill, and each shooting stand recreates the flight or run of a wild animal, its history is in the hunt but the only casualty at this friendly and well-run club is a bright orange dish, popularly known as a clay-pigeon. Brian Coupe is President of the Fareham Clay Target Club and on a beautiful winter, sunny, Sunday morning we sat drinking coffee outside the clubhouse to the sound of guns ‘banging’ from every direction and the lingering smell of burnt gunpowder. “Next year is our 50th Anniversary on this 38 acre site, which is owned by the members, and it is a perfect setting for our sport,” explained Brian. “We have what is known as the ‘home disciplines’ here which includes Skeet, Down-the-Line (DTL), Sporting and Automatic-Ball-Trap (ABT)” On arrival at the Funtley range we expected to see a few cars parked on the edge of a field; what we discovered was a very busy car park, a great family gathering - no excess of male testosterone flying around, but a nice friendly clubhouse that served a great breakfast. It was akin to a typical golf club, but a lot noisier with all the guns being fired! “We currently have around 280 members and they are made up of men, women and children, it is a great family day out here and some of the youngsters are really good shots already,” he continued. “We always have room for new members but you do not have to join to shoot. For beginners, just £10 for ten targets will get you the use of all the equipment; ear defenders, a tutor, gun, cartridges and clays on the Have-a-Go stand where, typically, there are always two or three instructors on duty.” Then it was my turn to have a go; Simon, the instructor, took me through exactly what I would be doing, long before any cartridge was slipped into the double barrelled shotgun. Safety is paramount and every precaution is taken 16…
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
and although the sport is great fun, the serious nature of this activity is never taken lightly. Brian later explained that; “It is every member’s job to ensure that other members are safe and behaving in an appropriate manner.” The small orange disc flew away from me on my command of ‘PULL’; my eyes and the tip of the sight on the end of the barrel followed it; there was a bang, and a slight jolt into my shoulder and the disc disintegrated, my first ‘kill’; I missed the next two! Of my ten shots I ended with six kills, which I was told was a good effort for a novice. All I know is that I was grinning from ear to ear because of the success of a personal challenge. Oliver Wyatt is 22 and one of the newer members, but according to sources within the club he has a bright future in the sport. “I’ve always wanted to take up the sport, my father has been doing it for many years. Now I am settled in one place it was a good time to start and Fareham as a gun club has an excellent reputation,” Oliver told Solent Life. “After using my father’s gun for the first six months I am now in the process of buying my own. The club have told me they will help me find the right gun, as gun fit is a key factor. “It is so different to other sports; it is tricky to pinpoint why I enjoy it, but I think it is the personal challenge and discipline. You do sometimes shoot as part of a team but each time you go to a stand to take your turn it is a personal challenge, plus you get to spend a day in wonderful scenery, as well as being part of a great social event. The people here are really friendly and I enjoy the competition,” Oliver
members only
Oliver Wybaettr new mem added. Once a visitor has been on the have-a-go stand, if they wish to become a club member, there is then a probation period to ensure that new shooters adhere to gun safety and treat the equipment and other members with due respect. Club President Brian took up the story of the club again. “The instructors are all qualified by the Clay Pigeon Shooting Association and this is also a very rare club in that it is one of the largest clubs owned and run by the members, for the members. We are a non-profit organisation so any money raised goes straight back into the club. It is also accessible to everyone no matter what age. We have the equipment to loan new visitors and members because the price of a gun begins at around £500 and can go up to several thousand pounds for a top of the range gun; but they do tend to keep their value when looked after. “Every Sunday here is a real social event but there is a responsibility of bringing young people into a controlled and safe environment, it teaches them discipline and respect as well as learning to shoot. Anybody who comes along to our club can go from novice to an Olympic competitor, we have had a Gold medallist from here and also have county shots and competitors who compete for England. With the right application and talent anything is possible.” For those that think the sport looks easy, just remember as the clay flies away from you, you have to aim at where it will be, not at the clay itself. Brian explained. 17…
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
“Most times you will be aiming at around six inches to a foot in front of the clay, depending on its speed, the faster it flies the further in front you have to aim; plus it is three dimensional and you also have to allow for the clay to rise or drop. It takes skill and practice to become a good shot, but each time you see the clay target explode in front of you there is a feeling of great personal satisfaction and achievement!”
As a brief explanation for those not experienced in the world of shooting: SKEET is where one clay crosses high and one low and is shot from different angles; an excellent training ground to learn to shoot DTL or down-the-line, where the clay goes away from you just as a teal would in the wild SPORTING, which is a simulation of any game you would get in the woods from a close running crow to crossing pigeons ABT, or automatic-ball-trap. This is only for the top shooters as the trap that fires the clays, oscillates continuously so the clay targets can fly out in any direction.”
FAREHAM CLAY TARGET CLUB The Shooting Grounds Titchfield Lane, Funtley Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 6DY
www.farehamctc.org.uk 01329 832335 (Shoot Days Only.) Located in 35 acres of Hampshire countryside between Southampton and Portsmouth with convenient access from Junction 9 of the M27, Fareham Clay Target Club is one of Southern England’s leading shooting grounds.
www.cpsa.co.uk Clay Pigeon Shooting Association, the national governing body.
Brian Coupe, President
New Children’s Clinic
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Stubbington Natural Health Clinic has been specialising in treating a wide variety of health problems for nearly 30 years. The latest addition to our many facilities is a healthcare service for Children. Treatments available include Cranial Sacral Therapy, Homeopathy, Nutrition, Allergy Testing and Children’s Podiatry. The importance of helping children with their health at a young age is imperative. Some of the conditions we can assist with include:-
‘Committed to your Health & Well Being’ Opening Times: Monday - Friday 08:00 - 19.30 Saturday 08:00 - 13.00
For advice and appointments telephone: T: 01329 665871 (answerphone available for out of hours) W: www.stubbingtonnaturalhealthclinic.com E: info@stubbingtonnhc.co.uk
Sleep Problems, Hay fever, Coughs and Colds, Allergies, Eczema, Asthma, Bereavement, Anger, Behavioural Problems, Stress, Impetigo, Constipation, Diarrhoea, Learning Difficulties, Concentration Problems, Fears, Teething or Eating Problems, Verruca’s, Vaccination Problems, etc. If your child has any health issues you would like to discuss, we would love to hear from you.
TEL: 01329 665871 OR EMAIL: INFO@STUBBINGTONNHC.CO.UK WWW.STUBBINGTONNATURALHEALTHCLINIC.COM
3 STUBBINGTON LANE, STUBBINGTON, HAMPSHIRE, PO14 2PP
6th - 15th December at 7.30pm Matinees on Saturday 8th & 15th December at 2.30pm
A magical, funny modern Christmas tale for all the family. Miracle on 34th Street a heartwarming modern tale about the existence of Father Christmas and all the values that surround him. A kindly old gentleman proves to be a sensation as a stand in Father Christmas at a major New York department store. But is he really the real Father Christmas? A Christmas courtroom drama quickly tests everyone’s belief in the magic and spirit of Christmas. WHERE: ST MARGARETS ARTS, ST. MARGARETS LANE, TITCHFIELD PO14 4BG. TIME: START AT 7.30PM. TICKETS: MON – THURS £9. FRI & SAT £11. MATINEES £9.
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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+.
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
BOX OFFICE: 01329 556156 www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
coast & country
BODGERs AND BOTTOMERS
When Solent Life visited a local craft event, one of the exhibitors was Les Brannon a craftsman who specialised in traditional hedge laying and coppicing. The next time we met him was during a break in rain showers in a stand of sweet chestnut trees just north of Havant.
20… Words & Images David Rose-Massom • DECEMBER 2012 .co.ukby
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
coast & country
“When I was a kid instead of buying fags, like all my mates, I would buy woodworking tools,” Les explained about how he first began working with wood. “I began by making small boats and other small wooden things. For most of my working life I have continued working with wood as a furniture restorer; I have always been a craftsman working with wood.” As we talked Les took time out to explain to his two colleagues how to split the cut timber into picket-fence size slats, he made it look easy, the two men struggled to get the wood to the right size. “It is not about strength, it is about technique and knowing how to use the tools,” he explained. “The sweet chestnut stands should be cut in a rotation at around 12 to 16 years but this coppice has been left for around 25 years without work. It is not a problem though because at this age the trunks are ideal for quartering into four triangular posts. I am working about 12 acres of woodland here. “I am fairly new at coppicing, although it has always interested me, and I have been doing it for some 12 to 15 years.” When asked his age, it was the only bit of knowledge Les was unsure of and after a long delay for thought he answered, “62, I am 62!” he concluded. “If we have an order for posts, or picket fencing then we have to fill the order - doesn’t matter if it’s pouring down with rain or not, we have to get the work done.” Les explained the leap from restorer to woodsman. “Even in restoration there is a need to make new parts but that would be with seasoned and prepared wood, I am getting much more fun starting from fresh and working in ‘green’ wood, this is the unseasoned and fresh cut timber. You may have seen a craftsperson at a country fare working with a traditional polelathe and he was called a Bodger; hence the expression to bodge something when it is put together out of bits and pieces! “With that pole-lathe the Bodger would produce chair legs and spindles; the Bottomer would make the seats!” (Obviously) With the off-cuts of wood the coppicer would also burn charcoal; the New Forest was once a strong production area for charcoal with giant ringkilns burning the wood. “The charcoal burner would make a one-legged stool (think shooting stick but made out of a stem of wood and a rough seat) he would need this to watch the kiln day and night, it was single legged so that if the burner fell asleep he would topple off and wake himself. The one-legged stool was called a ‘Foreman’ and from this we get the name of the modern overseer in many workplaces that we call the foreman.” Some years ago Les had been watching traditional hedge laying and thought it an amazing skill and so signed up for a course. “It is now becoming a growing skill as landowners are being encouraged to re-lay their hedgerows,” he continued, “It’s a good form of fencing as well as a perfect habitat for much of our wildlife; and I work very closely with wildlife officers and the Wildlife Trust. I also work with many volunteers in a hands-on role and will teach anyone who is interested in the crafts that surround my work.” Les still teaches furniture restoration at St Vincent’s College in Gosport. He went on to explain that he wanted to pass his skills and knowledge onto young people but there was little money in working a coppice and selling the sticks, poles and fencing, so it was hard to attract them to the crafts involved. Most of the people he teaches are middle aged folk who want to leave their desk and office behind and get out into the woods to work. On arrival I expected to hear the incessant buzz of chainsaws, but they are only used for felling the trees and cutting the trunks to workable lengths. The rest is done by manual labour and with traditional tools. Les took me through the 12 acre woodland he was working and showed me new stands of sweet chestnut that
were only 12 months old and already showing strong growth. The woodland floor was covered in sawdust which made it a soft, carpet-like, winding pathway through the trees. “The wooden mallet, or Beetle, to give it the traditional name is something we make quickly from the available wood. It is also called a ‘waster’ because it is something that is just thrown away once we have beaten it to pieces; we now call people who are not much good after a while a ‘waster’.” The insights that Les gave came thick and fast and each were a fascinating journey into an ancient craft and our language that we so take for granted. “The wedges we use for splitting the logs are called ‘gluts’ and obviously when we have plenty of wedges there is a glut of them! “The Hampshire Coppice Group was set up to promote coppicing, related crafts and its products. Working with raw wood in the woodland where it grew teaches you how the wood works and behaves. For example, when wood is ‘riven’ or split with the grain, rather than cut, it retains much more strength than cut wood,” Les concluded as he split yet another log with ease. It was an amazing few hours spent in the company of a fascinating man who taught me much about the woods where I so often walk. He spoke strongly of the heritage of the crafts that came from that wood and even stronger about the need to work and manage our woodlands and coppices to keep them healthy for future generations as well as producing amazing crafts created by crude tools, clever hands and fertile minds. At the very least it is keeping alive a language and use of words that could well have been lost in time and the question must be asked ‘where would we be without a Bottomer?’ – stood up probably! Les Brannon’s contact details can be found, along with other coppicing members, on… www.hampshirecoppice.co.uk The Hampshire Coppice Group was set up in 2003 with the aim of supporting the work of coppice, underwood and associated craftsmen in Hampshire, as well as raising awareness of the benefits and opportunities they provide for woodlands and their wildlife, the landscape, rural employment and sustainable development. The site also aims to promote the use of local sustainable products such as Hazel hurdles, Spars, bean sticks, charcoal, logs, etc.
1856 was notable not only for the advent of Murphy’s Stout but also, though rather less notably for the founding of a local funeral business which continues today as the family firm of A.H. Freemantle. Changes over the last 150 years have been considerable within the funeral industry, however, our deep-rooted family traditions continue to set us apart and enable us to deliver highly professional standards, moral integrity, and uncompromising service at your time of need. Although death can sometimes be a painful topic to discuss, more and more people now accept that planning and paying for their funeral in advance can be just as important as writing their Will. By deciding to pre-plan and pre-pay for the funeral with A.H. Freemantle, you will receive the best local, personalised service and value for money. The advantage of a prepayment plan over a savings account or life insurance policy is that you can pay now at today’s price, and beat inflation. We offer fully guaranteed plans and there are no age limits or health restrictions. Take advantage of our family guarantee and transfer your current funeral plan from any other provider, please call us for further details. For commitment free advice, call us or contact us through our website www.ahfreemantle.co.uk. Titchfield 01329 842115 or Park Gate 01489 885525
The Tanneries Unit 5 East Street Titchfield PO14 4AR
Mercedes-Benz Specialists
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Ruarkaudio R4i ‘A music system for the 21st century’
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
Care funding and Benefits – are you missing out on money?
Millions of pounds goes unclaimed every year by older people and their carer’s. Are you entitled to a bit extra? Attendance allowance-is non means tested benefit for people over 65 who need help with personal care such as getting in and out of bed, washing, eating, medication or mobility, or because they can become confused and need someone to watch over them. Carer’s Allowance - is non means tested to help people who look after someone who is disabled. You do not have to be related to, or live with, the person that you care for. You can claim for paying a ‘third party’ to provide care while the main carer is out. NHS Continuing care - is non means tested and can be available for your every nursing and care need ‘in any setting’ – including your own home – if your local health authority agrees your health needs meet their criteria for funding then up to £1,000 per week in aid can be spent on 24-hour live-in nursing, night nurses or daily respite. Community Care-is means tested If you are entitled to local authority financial support, as an alternative to providing you with care, councils are now obliged (if you meet certain conditions) to offer you Direct Payments. With this regular cash income you can opt to pay for private homecare and related activities such as shopping services. If you would like further information please call us directly on
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solent | travel
GET A DEA WAY FOR LS CAR THE STA IBBE RTI AN NG £1,2 FROM 9 PER PER 9 S ON
DISCOVER A LITTLE PIECE OF PARADISE
THIS WINTER ONBOARD
AZURA AND VENTURA
With the winter nights well and truly upon us now is the time to be thinking of some winter sun. P&O Cruises will have Azura and Ventura out in the Caribbean this winter. The Caribbean was made for cruising with so many stunning islands to explore, there`s a wealth of hidden treasures to uncover. Soft, sandy beaches and crystal clear seas make the Caribbean a haven for scuba divers and snorkelers; the amazing coral reefs, teeming with hundreds of weird and wonderful fish, are a sight to behold. From watersports to whale watching, world class shopping to colourful markets, and glitzy casinos to charming fishing villages. Each island has something different to offer. I love the Caribbean! The people are so friendly and welcoming. I was lucky enough to experience a P&O cruise recently. We flew from Gatwick on a cold winters day and soon we were landing in Barbados. We were met at the airport and taken straight to our ship. No lifting of heavy bags as these were taken straight to our cabin. My tip is to take a change of clothes in your flight bag as our luggage took a while to get to our cabin. It was great to put our shorts on and head to the bar! What a way to start your cruise. In my article today I am focusing on Azura`s departure on the 24th January 2013. You will fly from Gatwick to Barbados and visit the stunning islands of Curacao in the Netherlands Antillies, then onto the Dutch Antillies for some fun in Aruba. After a fun packed couple of days you will soon be heading to St Vincent and Grenada. Barbados and St Maarten are next stops on your itinerary. 24…
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I loved St Maarten. We walked from our ship to the quayside and within minutes we were on a fabulous golden beach. Beware though, as a duty free island there are many bargains to be had. I made my wife leave her purse behind! Good luck with that one. You will soon be heading to the British Virgin Islands where we booked a Catamaran trip. I would recommend booking this excursion early as this is very popular. We went snorkelling and saw a massive Stingray - what an amazing experience! After a few Rum punches we were back onboard. After a day at sea exploring this lovely ship, we arrived at Guadelope for the day, then onto St Lucia for a trip into the rain forest. Again, we booked this on board as it is another popular trip. We tasted various spices and visited a Banana plantation. Sadly our trip was coming to an end and we were soon at Barbados to come home. If you want to experience this trip we have twin inside cabins from £1549.00 per person and balcony cabins from £2299.00 per person, as with all these offers the costs I have given you were correct at the time I wrote this article. Azura and Ventura are sister ships so you will find plenty of cruising options this winter. I hope you have enjoyed my feature and remember that there are many other departures available with similar itineraries, which I will be very happy to go through with you. I look forward to seeing you in our Lee On Solent shop soon.
Chris Dewey
Manager
solent | travel
AMBASSADOR TRAVEL YOUR LOCAL P&O CRUISE SPECIALIST
CONTACT US TODAY
FOR AMAZING CRUISE DEALS
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CRUISE SPECIALIST IN LEE ON SOLENT TODAY. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU IN OUR NEW LEE ON SOLENT SHOP SOON
Lee On Solent is proud to be the 7th branch of Ambassador Travel The local independent specialist opened on the 27th June under the Management of Chris Dewey. Ambassador Travel has its own tour operations in South Africa and the Seychelles and is part of the Advantage travel network. Ambassador has branches in Oxon, Newbury, Cheam, Wendover, Wells and Gillingham.
We are fully ABTA and ATOL bonded for your protection
Catherine Wassell - Assistant Manager Cath is our Australian, New Zealand and South Africa specialist. Cath started in travel in 1995 and has also travelled extensively throughout the world.
Karen Fisher - Senior Travel Consultant Karen started in travel in 1996 and has a wealth of travel knowledge. Karen has cruised on many cruise liners during her time in travel. Cunard, P&O and Royal Caribbean being her most recent. Karen`s favourite destination is Toronto in Canada.
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Chris Dewey - Manager Chris has been in travel for over thirty years. He has travelled extensively throughout Europe. Chris`s favourite destination is the Caribbean where he has travelled many times and his favourite island is Antigua. They say there is a different beach for every day of the year! Call in for a chat today. I look forward to welcoming you in our new branch soon.
aldo zilli interview
Small words by David Rose-Massom
Aldo Zilli is an award-winning celebrity chef and restaurateur who specialises in Italian, vegetarian and seafood cuisine. One of nine children, he was born in the small seaside town of Alba Adriatica in the central Italian region of Abruzzo and first learnt Italian home cooking from his mother in Italy and catering college.
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“Something just clicked; it was an overnight thing,” he said. “I was working for a very good chef, it was in the days before Michelin Stars and he could have had six stars he was so good. Working in his French restaurant I saw how things were put together and was enjoying just watching good cooking. A kitchen in those days was not a fun place to be, there were very few women in kitchens then and they were very violent places to work. It was 12 hours a day seven days a week and it was rough growing up in that environment where you were more likely to be kicked than taught. Sometimes it felt more like prison than a kitchen!” 27…
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He did go on to say that being a chef today had become a lot more of a “girly job”, and was becoming more about cakes, admitting that in his job as a newspaper columnist he would scream if he received another book about cakes! Back in the mid seventies though; “I realised I had a skill for cooking and thought to myself - I can cook this food and make soufflés; I began to enjoy it and craved my own restaurant. It was not just about cooking and becoming famous, I wanted to feed people and see their reaction to my food and so, at the age of 26, I opened my first restaurant.” From those early years and the sudden finding of a passion for cooking he became the founder and chef-patron of some of London’s most exciting and innovative restaurants. However, earlier this year, Aldo decided to hang up the chef's whites and embark on other ventures. “I realised it became more about the baggage of business and not about the food,” continued Aldo. “Now, six months on and I am back in the business with a friend of mine with our Cicchetti restaurants - part of the San Carlo Group of restaurants. The food reinterprets the delightful Venetian culinary custom of cicchetti – delicious small plate dishes to share or eat alone, enjoyed with a beer or glass of wine. “I have found the passion again, rather than being stressed about business my ambitions are finally being fulfilled. For me cooking is about passion, food is about the seasons, the colours, the flavours and Mediterranean cooking. Fish is a wonderful ingredient that most people overcook. Every Saturday morning I run a Masterclass in cooking fish and it begins at six in the morning when we go to the fish market and by early afternoon those cooks have learned how to treat and respect fish as an ingredient.” Aldo has written 10 books including two autobiographies, Being Zilli and My Italian Country Childhood, as well as various cook books, with his signature Italian recipes. His Fish Cook book showcases some of the fresh seafood recipes that he is so famous for. His new book called Fresh & Green with over 100 new exciting vegetarian recipes made the Telegraph’s Top Ten. Aldo’s love of great food and his exuberant personality means Aldo appears regularly on television and radio both as presenter and chef. Aldo was in Southampton following weeks of mouth-watering anticipation, when the new ‘Dining at West Quay’ officially opened toward the end of last month with
a day of culinary delights. Taking centre stage at the exciting event he showcased his Italian-inspired cuisine live on stage and he provided Southampton’s shoppers with his top culinary tips during three demonstrations held throughout the day. Alexandra Thomas, Marketing Communications Manager at West Quay, commented: “We’re delighted to be officially launching Dining at West Quay with this fantastic celebration of food. We were all excited to see Aldo Zilli showcasing his culinary skills - it’s great watching celebrity chefs on TV cooking programmes, but seeing it live really makes a difference. It gives people a real insight into what food is all about- you can smell it, touch it, and taste it too!”
Aldo Zilli is more than just an Italian chef; he has bought many innovations into our everyday culinary tastes. “Many of the best cooks are self-taught chefs who have developed the skills through our travels,” Aldo concluded. “We cook to the seasons and I almost feel like the Godfather of Italian cooking in this country, I was the first to put risotto on a menu, the first with porcini mushrooms and sundried tomatoes. At 56 I am not a grandfather yet but I am the Godfather of Italian cuisine!” It was a proud statement of achievement rather than boastful from a delightful, very funny and very talented chef. www.sancarlocicchetti.co.uk www.west-quay.co.uk/dining
aldo zilli interview
When Aldo Zilli was a small boy his family moved from a farm to near the sea, where he gained his love of fish and first began to cook. “We had no running water, gas or electricity and so we cooked outside and family meals were, as most people in this country imagine them to be, outdoors, under an awning at a long table and eating fresh Mediterranean food.” The popular Italian chef spoke to Solent Life shortly before visiting the new food hall at Southampton’s West Quay, where he demonstrated some of his favourite dishes. “I had seven brothers and one sister and my father believed that cooking was not for boys, so my brothers all went out to work, I was the youngest and so I was left behind and cooked with my mother,” he continued with an accent that has retained just the merest hint of Italian. “It was a matter of necessity because I wanted to eat; so I had to help cook it. It was only later in life, when I was 18 or 19 that it turned into a passion.
It’s Sale Time! •••••••••••••••••••••
Perhaps only a woman can understand the importance of the January sales. For the previous few months we have selflessly put the needs of others ahead of our own; whilst Christmas shopping we have ignored the perfect pair of black heels, the dress that is to die for, the coat that we have been looking for all our lives, the scarf which perfectly complements the whole ensemble.......but like Arnie ; we have sworn that ‘we’ll be back’. So the January sales are our reward for the hours of shopping, wrapping, cooking, cleaning and carolling; this is our moment to hand the children, the leftover turkey and the lingering Christmas guests over to our spouses and shop until we drop. There is something about the January sales and the female gender. Is it the opportunity to buy that little black dress that we have coveted for months, at half the original price? Is it that the January sales are our battleground? Is it that we relish the elbowing, the rush to grab a bargain before our opponent? Is it that we are addicted to the heady excitement of buying just for the sake of it? Or is it just that for a woman, retail therapy is the best? Few can deny the exquisite pleasure of flicking through a rail full of reduced clothing, discounting item after item; too big, too small, wrong colour, wrong style, too young, too old, too long, too short, just not me - until finding the one item that ticks all our boxes. Or the heady excitement of spotting the perfect handbag, the long walk across the shop floor to reach it and that heart stopping moment when you lay hands on it and know, just know, that now all is right in your world. For hour after wonderful hour, we can meander from shop to shop, buying a jumper here, a belt there, then a pair of boots to match. We can double back for the trousers, snap up the dress that we may never wear, but has to be bought as it is such a bargain. We will queue patiently for the changing room, endure being too hot, ignore hunger and terrible thirst; suffer aching feet and loss of feeling in our fingers from countless carrier bags. We will return home, tired, slightly sweaty and several kilos lighter, with the quiet satisfaction that comes from knowing that, for at least the next month, we will not be found standing in front of our wardrobe full of clothes, proclaiming that we have nothing to wear.
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
OK girls this is your time. If the last two or three months have been all about buying for other people the January sales are all about me, me, me! Yet the January sales can bring even more fulfilment, for not only can we shop for clothes, we can also seek out the new sofa, curtains, cushions and floor lamp that our lounge is crying out for. In the odd few minutes of downtime during the festive season, any self-respecting woman will have wandered around her home, mentally refurnishing and redecorating each and every room. That self same woman will have convinced her hapless partner into agreeing that what appears, in his eyes, to be a perfectly serviceable three piece suite is in desperate need of replacement before the springs do someone a mishap. Furthermore, as the new suite will make the rest of the room look shabby, he will be required to get out his pasting table and paint brush whilst she goes shopping for the new soft furnishings needed to match the new suite. Studies state that women make around 80% of the purchasing decisions in our households, and the figures rise to around 94% when it comes to home furnishing purchases. So it appears that shopping for home furnishings is also a female dominated domain. Obviously male input is required, but most are happy to only be consulted once the finalists have been selected. Safe in the knowledge that the men in our lives are primarily only concerned with being able to see the television from all angles, we can spend a satisfying and comparatively restful few hours reviewing sofa after sofa for form, plumpness, durability, fit and fabric. We can linger in the curtain department, fabric sample in hand, and happily browse for beds and dining room tables, weighing up a myriad of options before narrowing the choice down to a final three or four; if clothes shopping in the sales is a maelstrom of elbows, bosoms and handbags, then furniture shopping is a much more civilised affair. In conclusion, there can be little doubt that shopping is essential to a women’s well being, and as every woman knows shopping in the sales means we save money...
...so girls, kick off your Christmas slippers, get out there and SHOP, SHOP SHOP!
••••••••••••••••••••• words by Fiona Cooke
MOJA
I N D I A N R E S TA U R A N T F U L LY L I C E N C E D
2 HOLLY CLOSE SARISBURY GREEN, SO31 7BW
There is no other Indian restaurant like Moja! The taste is beyond anyone’s reach! It is a hidden gem waiting for you...
Take a seat in our restaurant, pop in for a takeaway or we offer a home delivery service. We are proud to be the best! Merry Christmas to all of our current and prospective customers!
sapori Fresh dishes, using authentic Italian ingredient to re-create original recipes. Open daily serving lunch and dinner The a la carte menu is available both lunch & dinner
Tel. 023 9255 4646
108 High Street, Lee on the Solent bookings@sapori-restaurant.com
Christmas orders now being taken
Supplying fresh fish & seafood, frozen fish, continental cold meats and cheeses. A wide selection of olives, local chutneys and much more. Including Italian Pannettone and Pandoro, savoury hampers to include the Isle of Wight’s famous ‘Garlic Farm’ products, continental oils and vinegars, and much more.
Home delivery service on our regular menu (within a 4-5 mile radius). TO BOOK PLEASE RING
01489 571 999 OPEN 5pm – 10.30pm 7 DAYS A WEEK www.mojarestaurant.com
Open five days a week
126 High Street, Lee on the Solent
Tel: 023 9255 0001
The Miners Arms
CHRISTMAS MENU
available from 7th to 22nd December 2012 2 course £14.95 3 course £17.95
Starter
Famous Fish & Chip Restaurant and Take-Away
Creamy Curried Parsnip Soup Potted Crab Chicken Liver Parfait
Mother Kelly’s unique fish & chip restaurant and take-away is open 7 days a week 11.30am - 11pm. ● All fish skinned and boned ● Traditional grilled breakfast served daily 8am-11.30am
221 Southampton Road, Paulsgrove
Tel 023 9221 9149 20 North Street, Emsworth (Take-aways only)
Tel 01243 375859 Coach parties by appointment • Large orders up to 250 portions DELIVERED FREE
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
Main Course
The Miners Arms 112 Funtley Road, Funtley Fareham, PO17 5EF T: 01329 232065
Traditional Roast Turkey with all the seasonal trimmings Sirloin Steak and Forestaire Sauce Cod Wrapped in Smoked Salmon with Herb Butter Somerset Brie and Beetroot Tart
Dessert Traditional Christmas Pudding Trio of Mini Chocolate Desserts Cheese and Biscuits
jane austen feature
On January 29, 1813, in a letter to her sister Cassandra, Jane Austen wrote, “I must confess that I think her as delightful a creature as ever appeared in print...” She was writing about her most enduring character Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice.
Two Hundred Years of
Pride
It is by far Jane Austen’s most famous and most popular of novels, Pride and Prejudice, and next year will see a world-wide celebration of this amazing piece of English literature that is as relevant today as it was back on that day in January 1813 when the author wrote to her sister after receiving her first copy from the publisher. The hub of those celebrations will be the home where she sat and wrote that letter two centuries ago, Jane Austen’s House in Chawton in the north of our county. Solent Life picked a sunny autumnal day to sit in the glorious garden and chat with the curator of the museum Louise West. “There has already been world-wide interest in this special bi-centennial anniversary and we are currently working on the website which will collate and promote events that will be happening around the globe next year,” Louise told us. “We may not have the facilities here to offer something on a daily basis throughout the year but we aim to be the hub and promote the conferences, exhibitions, meetings and events in general that will be happening around the world. “We have already received sponsorship from the United States and Australian societies and it is very important that Hampshire, and our own Jane Austen’s House, profits from the celebrations both intellectually and financially. Most of the visitors that come here do so as a direct result of reading Pride and Prejudice.” Louise explained that the former Austen family home will be hosting three specific events; one exhibition - a story of the book itself through the house; then in the summer there will be an arts and crafts exhibition with contemporary artists and craftspeople producing work using inspirations taken from the book; and there will also be a travelling exhibition of Pride and Prejudice visiting various venues in the county. “In the house there will be objects, pictures and devices to alert the public to the existing displays, there will be some first editions on show and the two most famous letters that Jane wrote to her sister Cassandra, one where she refers to her first published copy as ‘my own darling child…’ and the second letter which was a sort of self critique of the book.” That first letter was written on the 29th January 1813, which is the date for the beginning of the bi-centennial celebration. We asked if the book had changed much in public perception. “Today, what has made it different is, quite simply, Colin Firth.” Louise responded. “Before that film adaptation it was a story about Lizzie (Elizabeth Bennet) but after his performance it has also become about Mr Darcy – but for anyone who has read the book that sexual attraction between the two characters was already there; but that adaptation did portray it better than anything that had gone before. “Mr Darcy and the attraction for Elizabeth leapt off the page and I would be interested to discover what men think of her; many women, I know, want to be her and certainly Jane Austen wanted to be her,” she continued. “Lizzie would certainly still be relevant today and is very contemporary in so many ways; she is certainly not a 1950’s housewife.
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
jane austen feature
“Elizabeth was the character that Jane wanted to be, Lizzie is intelligent, speaks her mind but there is also sweetness about her,” she said. “Pride and Prejudice will be celebrated the world over and we hope that it will bring a stability and a solid future to this house here in Hampshire. We are in a good position but we have a duty to survive as her legacy; these are tough times and we are fine; but I want us to be ambitious and more than fine. Many Hampshire people still do not know that we are here but equally many people in the county take great pride in Jane Austen’s work and home in much the same way as Stratford is synonymous with Shakespeare. This is an important site and the Trustees and I are firmly committed to the future of Jane Austen’s House.” Jane Austen’s former home sits on the corner in the pretty village of Chawton, near Alton, if it were not for the trappings of modernity such as telephone lines and asphalt roads it would seem to be lost in time. Visiting the museum, and its pretty little garden, is a relaxing, entertaining and pleasant way to spend time peeking into the life of one of our finest authors and the next year or so will make the experience even more special with its links to two hundred years of Pride and Prejudice. Words & Images by David Rose-Massom
www.jane-austens-house-museum.org.uk
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
words byJustin Stevens
Raising a child is a costly business - nappies, clothes, pocket money and school trips are just the tip of the iceberg... The results of a survey indicated that by the time your child has reached 21 you would have spent an average of £218,000 on their upbringing (Source: www. mailonline.co.uk, January 2012). It doesn’t get any easier once they reach adulthood age. The chances are high that they will need financial help to fund a gap year, or to get a foot on the property ladder. But looking after your children doesn’t end when they start carving out a career and have a family of their own. In all likelihood you will want to create a financial legacy to ensure that the wealth you have created is preserved, protected and passed on to them. Preserving as much of your wealth as possible requires careful estate planning; otherwise you may not pass on as much wealth as you anticipate. Inheritance tax (IHT), which is just one barrier to the transfer of wealth, is a 40 per cent tax imposed on the worldwide estate of anyone who is UK-domiciled on all assets above the nil rate band of £325,000. One of the simplest IHT mitigation tools is a Will. Not only can a well drafted Will mitigate IHT, it is also crucial for anyone wanting to protect their family from a huge headache after they die. There are many different types of trusts, some straightforward and others very complicated. A common use of a trust is to hold assets on behalf of a child until they are old enough to look after their own money. However, it is vital that you seek expert help before you take the plunge because there may be income tax or capital gains tax as
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
well as Inheritance Tax implications that ensure that the method used is as taxneed to be considered. efficient as possible – and to start as early To ensure that the assets are invested as possible. in accordance with the terms of the Child trust funds have been scrapped for trust, you should ensure that you appoint newborn babies and the new Junior ISA will trustees who have the necessary skills not be launched until later this year, but you and knowledge. It can often make sense still have options. to use professional trustees rather than One existing solution is a Bare Trust, lay trustees. Family members often find it which can be used to shelter investments difficult to act objectively. Money and family in funds or single shares, or even property, arguments are often driven by emotion on behalf of children, grandchildren, rather than what is correct and appropriate. godchildren, nieces or nephews, and The appointment of a neutral, well-practiced which can be accessed at 18 years of age. professional trustee would avoid such The trust can be used to offset any gains conflicts. Professional trustees will also against the child’s annual capital gains have the expertise, specialist knowledge tax allowance and any income against and experience to identify potential their income tax allowance. If you are the problems, provide solutions and promote parent, however, you are liable for tax on good governance. any income above £100 a year from the Another method for helping to reduce any investments. potential IHT burden is gifting away money Being a parent brings with it rich rewards, before you die. This can be done through from watching your children walk their first potentially exempt transfers (PETs) which steps, to applauding them when they walk revolve around the famous “seven year rule”. on stage to collect their graduation scroll. Put simply, if you wish to pass assets to But such rich rewards do not have to be only family and friends during your lifetime, these emotional; they can be real too, with a little gifts will only be made free of IHT providing foresight and some expert financial help.l you survive seven years from the date of making the gift. To receive a complimentary guide There are some lifetime gifts that are covering Wealth Management, exempt from any IHT. You can gift up Retirement Planning or Inheritance Tax to £3,000 a year, which can be divided Planning, produced by St. James’s Place between as many people as you like. Wealth Management, contact Justin Parents are each allowed to give away Stevens at JMS Financial Consultancy £5,000 to their children when they get married, while grandparents can give £2,500. Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management on 01329 236693, Meanwhile, if you are saving on behalf of your child or children it makes sense to visit www.jmsfinancialconsultancy.co.uk
Change your life for the better With a glorious autumn to look forward to, why be on your own when you could be out socialising and making new friends with Club Weekenders ?. Club Weekenders is a social group for the over 40’s that arranges many social events throughout the year including walks, holidays, theatre trips, meals out, sports activities, mini breaks and so much more. With Club Weekenders you will meet like minded people experiencing new interests and going to new places. If you think this is for you then give Judith or Bree a call and they will arrange to meet you on Monday Bar Nights at the Delme Arms in Fareham. Phone now – you’ll be glad you did: Judith 01329 317319 or Angela 01329 239529
John Woolnough
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
solent | charity
Peter Snow CBE, is an iconic television and radio presenter, and national treasure, probably best known for his ‘swingometer’ during many an election campaign but several years ago while walking through Bristol Docks something unusual caught his eye...
Farewell For Rio
Image By David Rose-Massom
Words by David Rose-Massom 34…
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
“I was passing this tall ship on the quayside in Bristol and noticed a wheelchair, complete with occupant, being hauled up into the rigging and wondered what was going on,” he told Solent Life on yet another quayside, but this time in Southampton Docks. “What I discovered were extraordinary people doing extraordinary things with a wonderful charity and I have been a Vice Patron ever since.” The charity Peter Snow had discovered was the Jubilee Sailing Trust (JST) and we met him in Southampton as their training ship Lord Nelson was in final preparation for the first leg of an amazing round the world adventure. The Lord Nelson, aptly, left the docks on Trafalgar Day, October 21st, on the first leg of an epic journey. “The Paralympics were extraordinary and we all rose to it in an extraordinary way making disabled people realise they are part of society and had able bodied people thinking how can they do that? ” Peter continued, still waving his arms around in excitement just as he used to do in front of his Swingometer. “It was so moving
watching those events; and all that stuff is just what the JST has been doing for 35 years.” The JST, now with their major sponsor, global legal firm Norton Rose on board, are making history as they sail the first disability-friendly tall ship on a ground breaking world voyage that will pass on the spirit of the Paralympics; their first stop; Rio, the venue for the next Paralympics in four years time. As the rain pelted the quayside in Southampton and Peter Snow presented the Captain of the first leg, Barbara Campbell, with a chart and a new Ensign to fly, he added; “It’s pouring down here, can we all come to Rio with you.” A sentiment voiced by all those watching. Among the watching crowd was one 18 year old lad who could barely contain his excitement. Ryan Shore has Cerebral Palsy and is studying Business Management at Lord Treloar College in Alton. “I am a little scared of what I am taking on but it is more scary for my mum!” he told Solent Life. “Disability has never stopped me doing anything and this
solent | charity
Image By David Rose-Massom
trip is going to be hard, but it is a challenge that will change my life and be one hell of an experience!” Ryan will be joining Lord Nelson next May for the leg from India to Singapore, a trip of 2,400 miles that will see the youngster at sea for 28 days. “I am full of excitement at the moment and I have no doubt there will be fearful moments but once you have set sail, they are not going to turn back so we all just have to get on with our jobs on board; I cannot miss out on such a great experience!” The Jubilee Sailing Trust was founded in 1978 and was the brainchild of Christopher Rudd, a teacher and sailor who wanted to give his disabled pupils the same opportunities as able-bodied children. Starting with two non-adapted vessels, the charity grew and it was not long before the 55m long, 3-masted barque, Lord Nelson was commissioned. Since her
Image By Tallshipstock.com
maiden voyage in 1986 over 10,000 people with physical disability have sailed aboard her and 4,000 of those people have been in wheelchairs. Between now and September 2014 the Norton Rose Sail the World Challenge will make history and change lives as they cross the equator four times, visit seven continents, sail 50,000 sea miles and visit 30 countries, 28 of which will have never heard of the JST or the vessel Lord Nelson. On board for this journey of a lifetime will be a full time compliment of crew, the disabled crew members, all of whom have been sponsored in one way or another, will be accompanied by their sailing buddies. David Horton is one such buddy and he will be working alongside Ryan Shore. “I have been sailing with the JST for 12 years now but this is the first time I will be taking a disabled member with me,” David explained. “I have paid £5,300 for myself and hopefully I have also raised enough sponsorship funds for Ryan, my on-board buddy, and one other disabled crew member to make the voyage. I have sailed all my life and my cousin was one of the founding members of the JST so I have always been aware of the amazing things they do. I joined the charity 12 years ago and have never looked back since.” The overall aim of the Jubilee Sailing Trust is to promote integration between able bodied and physically disabled men and women, aged 16 to 100, through the adventure of tall ship sailing; and what an adventure they have embarked on now with their amazing round the world challenge.
Image By Tallshipstock.com
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
Follow the Jubilee Sailing Trust and THE NORTON ROSE SAIL THE WORLD CHALLENGE on www.jst.org.uk Facebook: Jubilee Sailing Trust . Twitter: @Jubilee Sailing
It’s the Thought that Counts The last shopping days to Christmas are whizzing by and the pressure is on to find the perfect present. This is the time of year when you can spot harried shoppers, list in hand, rushing from shop to shop whilst muttering under their breath, “What on earth shall I get for Aunt Rose?”
words by Fiona Cooke As the Christmas clock ticks, those with responsibility for fulfilling our Christmas desires can find themselves completely devoid of ideas, patience and time, and their task is all the harder if Aunt Rose failed to complete that one essential item for every Christmas shopper; the Christmas Wish List. Without this we all have the potential to be the recipient of the last minute panic purchase, which disappoints or is just plain perplexing. If this situation arises take pity on the well meaning shopper and say with genuine gratitude and with an equally genuine smile: “Thank you, this is the best present I have ever received”. This advice is especially relevant to children who are still learning the importance of social niceties. When my daughter was younger and going through her tomboy phase, a gift that was remotely pink, cuddly or flowery would reduce her to tears. Much to the confusion of the giver the present would be silently handed to my son, who wanted to be a pink princess at the time. Luckily they have now both resolved their gender issues and also learned to beam politely even when presented with Justin Beiber Tee shirts by a misguided relative. All this can be avoided with the compilation of a comprehensive Christmas wish list of everything your heart desires. But be warned, so as to avoid further distress, it is also important not to set your sights too high. This year my daughter’s request for a quad bike is doomed to disappointment, just as my wish for world peace and a new oven are equally fated. However Ellie does have a chance of receiving a beanbag armchair, hairdryer and high top trainers, and I hope to cry tears of joy when my children offer to wash up on Christmas Day. When filling out your list it is better to keep your expectations low, and be pleasantly surprised that your loved one has picked up on your subtle or not so subtle hints as to what would really earn them a smacker under the mistletoe. In the event that you have not completed a list it is wise to have a plan for unwanted gifts. This is especially applicable
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
to the Aunt Rose’s of the world, for whom the only present any of us can think to give is toiletries or slippers, which can be a logistical nightmare for our sweet smelling doyennes. Many could find themselves having to bathe two or three times a day in order to make use of all the soaps and lotions they receive, whilst also having to wear a pair of slippers for every occasion. There is the option of giving the gift to someone else the following Christmas, and it is a glorious thought that a bottle of bath salts could do sterling service, being passed between family and friends for many years. Alternatively you can start a ‘Things I Do not Know What to do With’ drawer. Simply place all unwanted gifts here; with the passing thought that they might be used one day; then shut the drawer and forget about them. Obviously you will be adding to the drawer every year, and at some point the issue may have to be addressed, if only because the drawer will not shut. However one can hope that this problem may never arise, and that many years hence, after you have enjoyed your last Christmas, the contents of the drawer will become family heirlooms. But my favourite way of dealing with the present that is surplus to requirements is to follow the example of an elderly relative who came to stay one Christmas. She simply left behind the dressing gown we had given her and explained later on the phone that it was not needed as she already had a perfectly good one! There can be little doubt that present buying can be a tricky business and I should imagine it was not long after the advent of Christmas that some poor soul, upon receiving her third poinsettia of the day, coined the adage “It is the thought that counts”. We all give with the genuine wish that the recipient will enjoy the gift, and whatever you and your loved ones unwrap this Christmas, may you have a truly magical and happy day.
KIMBERS
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KEYBOARDS
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10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY 2002 - 2012
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meet the team
15% DISCOUNT
on production of this advert (at order stage) offer ends 31st December 2012
Left to right: Pam Julie Hind (Direc Garnett, Steve Payne, tor), Oliver Pec k, Katy Watso n
Six acres of beautiful landscaped gardens offering a final resting place for the burial of your loved one’s cremated remains along with an individual memorial. Location: Please note that we are not part of the Crematorium or their Garden of Remembrance. Follow our green signs. Upper Cornaway Lane . Portchester . PO16 8NF 01329 828250 . www.pmgardens.com
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
Christmas Memorial Service
Portchester Memorial Gardens will be holding their Christmas Memorial Service this year on Sunday 16th December 2012 at 3.15pm. It will be supported again by the Rowans Hospice, and during the service there will be a 24 white dove release, Piper and a selection of carols will be sung. This will then be followed by complimentry refreshments for the families. The service is an outdoor event, approx half an hour and will be held around the lake and temple area of the Memorial Gardens. Due to the number of people that now attend, please contact the office in advance before 30th November 2012 to advise how many people will be attending. Call: 01329 828250 or email: enquiries@pmgardens.com.
107.2 to 107.8fm
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
solent | baking
GREAT Sometimes it is just fun getting your hands dirty! Especially if there is food involved… Every day invitations arrive at Solent Life and some, by the sheer nature of the subject, get put to the top of the pile. So when we received an invite from the New Forest Cookery School to join in a Baking Masterclass there was a battle royal to see who would attend… I won! John MacArthur is Chef Director of the School, which is based in the excellent Brockenhurst College, and he explained what we would be doing on our evening taster session (taster session sounded like a good experience). “The New Forest Cookery School has been going, and growing, for four years, and two years ago we decided it was such a success we would brand it and expand what we were trying to achieve,” he told the small assembly of guests. “The cookery courses we do here vary greatly, everything from sushi to spices and from roasts to baking. With the current popularity of baking, as with the Great British Bake Off on TV, it was a very simple choice for us to produce a range of courses for groups, individuals and indeed for smaller groups of friends who wish to learn how to bake together.” John explained that working in a kitchen was also a good team-building exercise for corporate events. They are run as a professional kitchen would be, but with more fun than hard work. “Set in the heart of the beautiful New Forest, we offer expert culinary tuition in industry-standard kitchens using the wonderful local produce available in this area. Our professional chefs provide expertise across a wide range of cooking skills – pasta and bread making, game master classes, cooking with spices, speciality chocolates and patisseries, sushi preparation, and much more. Small and personal, our group classes ensure that you get the most from each course, developing your skills and learning to create fabulous food.” There has been an explosion of interest in baking at the moment and there is something truly inspiring 40…
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
about watching a good pastry chef gently working the ingredients. Pastry Chef and lecturer is Allan Collier and he described the dishes we would be making, and before even breaking an egg or spilling flour our taste buds were looking forward to the fruits of our labours.
“To begin with, buttery shortbread biscuits,” he explained. “A simple start, but with Christmas in mind they would have a hole in so we can use them as edible festive decorations. “Once the basics have been achieved we will learn how to cook really good scones, not rocks, but soft and moist classic scones,” the tension was building. “Buche De Noel will be the main dish we will produce this evening.” The French description was lost on most of the assembled throng of wannabe cooks. It transpired this dish was simply a Yule Log, but it was not simple in its construction. This was a chocolate swiss roll, not filled with jam but with a sweet chestnut puree, and decorated with meringue mushrooms and marzipan Christmas trees. That filling was a blend of
Words & images by David Rose-Massom
whipping cream, dark chocolate and the chestnut puree; a blissful concoction on its own but then to be spread throughout a light sponge roll before being decorated with the meringue and marzipan. My recent diet was about to be put under severe strain. Chef Allan showed the class how to make the pastry for the biscuits, taking everyone step by step through the procedure. Even an experienced chef weighs the simplest ingredients as Allan later explained. “Food combinations are like chemistry in that all the ingredients have to combine to bring about the end product, ingredients are always weighed as it is important to get the right mix to get the best from the products.” The class were then let loose at stations around the large, professional kitchen. Within seconds butter was being trod underfoot and faces were pasted with flour; the class were like primary school pupils let loose in a play-kitchen. There were frowning expressions of concentration and raucous laughter in equal measures. The New Forest Cookery School has classes on Tuesday evenings, ‘an introduction to professional cooking’, as part of their adult education courses. Most of the courses will be held at weekends though and all courses can be bespoke for individual groups of adult students, as Chef Director John explained. “We have even had a hen party come down from London to produce a full meal, which they then ate. Our classes all get to eat the food they produce.” Mouths began to water again as we realised how the evening would end! “A group of Rotarians came and cooked for their wives who were then served in our restaurant. We also had a company thank us for their best team building session ever when they came to the School for a course on handmade chocolates.” As the evening progressed it was almost as much fun watching a skilled chef work the baking ingredients as 41…
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
it was getting messy ourselves, as we attempted what had just been taught. But, as they say, the proof of the pudding is in the eating and the evening ended the best way possible, eating what we had produced and having fun judging our creations against our fellow cook’s.
Brockenhurst College Lyndhurst Road, Brockenhurst Hampshire, SO42 7ZE 01590 625500 or E-mail nfcs@brock.ac.uk www.brock.ac.uk/courses/new_forest_cookery_school
solent | baking
BAKE OFF
Salon 2 home
A
lison offers a professional hairdressing service within your home. She owns her own salon but realises not everyone likes to visit the salon or may not be able due to busy lifestyle or family commitments. Alison is highly qualified and has a wealth of experience which she wants to offer those who prefer to stay at home to be glammed-up. As a client of Alison, this is what you can expect: • You will always receive a professional affordable service • Alison uses the best hair products available • Will respond to your call as quickly as possible • Use of her own towels • Cut hair and rubbish will be swept and taken away When needed Alison works alongside a Beautician. Book now for your Christmas Party Hair, Up Do’s available for just £10. Prom and bridal packages are also available. Consultation appointments are often needed before a service (incase of colouring for skin testing and colour selection). This is totally free without obligation. You can expect offers and great value for money and all in the comfort of your own home. SALON 2 HOME PRICE LIST Wash & Set/Blowdry Wet Cut Wash Cut Blowdry Full Head Colour (48hr skin test before service) Root Retouch Half Head Foils T Bar Full Head Foils Cap Hi Lights Perms from Balmain Hair Extensions Bridal Packages Hair Put Up
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
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J B Holistic Therapist is a small, independantly run practice based in Lee-on-the-solent, offering individually tailored natural health treatments. Specialist Treatment Areas Remedial / Sport Massage: This treatment option can aid in the rehabilitation
process, following an injury or an operation, or recovery from an accident. It can also help with everyday aches and pains, tired and overworked muscles, or just for a bit of pampering. Aromatherapy: Relaxation for your body and mind. This is the therapeutic use of essential oils to help relieve many different conditions. Reflexology: Is an ancient therapy where pressure point massage is performed on the feet to help detect any inbalances in the body.
T: 02392 554340 . M: 07775 677583 www.jbholistictherapist.co.uk 43…
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solent | feature
Should Old Acquaintance... This New Year, not long after the stroke of midnight, many of us will find ourselves singing, not always word perfectly; “Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind?” And we will then raise our glasses to our Old Acquaintances and get on with the merriment of the evening. During our lives we will make countless Old Acquaintances; some will barely leave a mark but some will become the friends that are woven into the tapestry of our lives. As with most things nowadays there is a psychology to friendship. Apparently most of us have an ‘inner circle’ of friends. These are our closest confidants, the friends who know us inside and out, who love us for who we are and would drop everything to help us in our hour of need; as we would them. These are the friendships built over the years, which are born of laughing and crying together, of revealing our secrets and our fears; for we can only build a deep friendship when we have let some of our barriers down and truly revealed ourselves. These are the friends who carry us through the events of our lives; the romances, the marriages, the births, the deaths; the celebrations and the disappointments. We are attracted to those who are like us. So every friend becomes a mirror; the aspect of their personality that we are drawn to reveals the same depths in ourselves. We can see something of ourselves in each one; the compassion of one, the humour in another. Our friends reaffirm us, they tell us, simply be being our friends, that we are OK, that to have a friend as wonderful as them must mean that we are pretty wonderful too! There is a beautiful quote from Anais Nin. “Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born.” When we are young we make friends without thought. I met one of my closest friends at a New Mother’s class twelve years ago, when we were both first time mums.
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Two and half years later we had our second children two weeks apart, so all four of our offspring have grown up together; they have shared holidays, birthdays, summer afternoons in the garden, picnics on the beach, bonfire
nights, Christmases, first days at school. They have seen each other at their worst and their best. They’ve had adventures, whispered secrets, explored new territories, created havoc, built countless dens, laughed and cried together, fallen out and planned marriages. They have a treasure chest full of memories; some forgotten, some never remembered. Today the four of them still have the
solent | feature
child’s wonderful gift of being able to live in the moment, with little thought to yesterday or tomorrow. They simply make it up as they go along, carrying themselves from one activity to another, talking at, and over, each other in
a way that only they can make sense of...and frequently at full volume. They rarely reminisce, as we adults do, and they take their friendship for granted. We all recently looked at some photos taken over the years. There they were as babies, toddlers and beyond. There was the day at the zoo, the afternoon with the hose, the first sleepover, the camping holiday, the
face paints, the Spiderman outfits, the baby down, the ringlets, the missing teeth; the faces that were theirs but somehow different. There were the moments, magically captured, that on this day, delighted, embarrassed and entertained. There were the reminders of where their friendship started and how much of it is contained within their young lives. None of us know what their futures may hold, but we hope that their friendship will stay with them. It will be a constant when everything else in their life changes; their friendship can be the rock that they build their lives upon. For what thought brings more comfort than knowing, when you reach your final years, that you will do so in the company of those that have known and loved you throughout your life? As much as we can take our friends for granted, we are so blessed to have them with us every step of the way, to share with us a lifetime of memories that no one can be privy too. When we are old we cherish our friends all the more, for they are what connects us to the young person we once were, to a time when we were starting a life full of promise and possibilities. Whilst the celebration of the New Year is all about ringing in the new, as we give our rendition of Auld Lang Syne, we also recognise that old times and long standing friendships should be remembered. Within the song is the line; “We two have run about the slopes and picked the daisies fine.” And isn’t that so true? We journey up and down the hills of our lives in the company of Old Acquaintances who should never be forgot, for they become the daisy chain that weaves richness and joy into our lives. words by Fiona Cooke images donated by The Solent Life Team
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Words by David Rose-Massom
HAUNTING TIMES
solent | theatre
“This is the toughest role I have performed, both physically and vocally, and because of this I have to choose to live my life in a certain way, very much like an athlete,” explained Earl. “I arrive at the theatre around five o’clock each day to begin the process of warming up my voice, and it is also a good time to chat to others of the cast and crew because there are not many moments to socialise when in a busy show.”
singing Music of the Night, it is a very critical song and it is teaching Christine to look beyond the music and to be enveloped by it – and it’s the same for me when I sing that song; I lose myself in it.
Earl does more than perform on stage in his career and before talking more of his role as the Phantom, he explained why he wears the two hats of theatrical producer and as a star performer. “I love everything about my craft but the two roles are about longevity in the industry; I have always been made aware of how you have to look objectively and at all aspects of the career and have been taught that since my college days in Poole,” he said. “It is not just about the performance and being a performer it is about knowing every part of the craft. I think we should all know how it works and should understand about every part and how everything you do on the stage affects those around you and how their performances affect you; there is always a knock-on effect of what you do as a performer.”
“I cannot remember what I do each night, I am not a performer who sets his show each performance and never deviates,” Earl responded. “I am changeable and respond to my surroundings and my fellow cast members. As much as I get into the singing I cannot afford to just switch-off at that moment – it is worth too much to me!” Does it add weight knowing he is following some of the greats, such as Michael Crawford who had the role written for him? “In fairness I have never seen other Phantoms, apart from those I am about to replace in the role. The weight for me; and other performers, is the responsibility to the two big names of the show, Cameron Mackintosh and Andrew Lloyd Webber. We are ambassadors of theirs when performing, they have transformed musical theatre in this country and we owe it to them to always be our very best.”
Although Earl Carpenter played the Phantom in the London West End production, he says this touring production is a little different. “This production is different from the London version in that the ensemble cast are involved much more in the story about backstage life at the Paris Opera and how they are affected by the Phantom. That awareness from the whole cast while they are around you makes this a much easier story to tell.” One of the most powerful songs in musical theatre is the amazing Music of the Night, which the Phantom sings to Christine in order to teach her about becoming totally involved in her own singing; and Earl is following some amazing singers who have played the role before. “When
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Although he has been in the business for more than 20 years Earl still loves playing here on the South Coast. “It adds something to the performance when down here, you bump into old Am-Dram colleagues, friends and family and they come to watch and enjoy something you do. Plus when you are young and tell people what you want to do, this is the only way to prove you have achieved those dreams.”
PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Mayflower, Southampton 22nd January until 16th February www.mayflower.org.uk Box Office 02380 711 811 Tickets are on sale now.
solent | theatre
The character of the Phantom in PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has to be one of the most challenging and yet exciting roles in musical theatre today; and Earl Carpenter from Ryde on the Isle of Wight will be playing the lead role when a new touring production comes to the Mayflower early next year. He took time out from the UK tour to speak with Solent Life.
solent | education
TRADITION & AMBITION “I joined the school just over a year ago and I came here because of the school, the job, the opportunity and what attracted me the most was the girls because they display such enthusiasm, a real love of learning, a genuine concern for each other and their environment and a ‘can do’ attitude.” Jane Prescott, Head Teacher
Head Teacher of Portsmouth High School is Jane Prescott;
a recent addition to the school’s history. “Girls achieve so much more in a single-sex environment; they are more diligent and hard working whereas the boys are naturally more boisterous and noisy in a co-educational scenario. In that environment you teach more to the boys than the girls!” Jane went on to explain that teachers have to work harder to keep the boys’ attention. “It is fact that girls mature so much quicker than boys and in most cases the girls do find the behaviour of the boys annoying in an educational environment. “In a mixed gender background you do tend to stereotype; and girls and boys study the usual subjects for their gender. In an all-girls’ school such as Portsmouth High School, the students are more likely to take up physics and engineering, in a mixed school they could be subject to peer pressure not to study those subjects.”
One of the Head’s main objectives in education she refers to as ‘stickability’. “We encourage the students to see things through, to stick at anything they choose to do; to see these things through to a conclusion helps with their belief in long-term success,” explained Jane. “We are preparing them for a life beyond school; we are what is described as a ‘through’ school, where many of our students are with us from the age of three right through to 18 years. We have a good idea of what the end-game is and that is to produce confident people to go out into the world and what we do is to produce good people that can go out into the world full of confidence.” Jane Prescott’s school is part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) which was founded in 1882, a group of 26 educational establishments that work very closely together. “We use the Trust and have connections to all the other schools; it is an alumnae network if you like! “We like to think we stick with our girls, and they will stick with us; five of our current staff members are all ex-students; and the fact they wanted to return to us is fulfilling and welcoming. This keeping in touch means we have a continuation of excellence, this school is 130 years old and has been on this site since 1882, we have some original gothic style buildings that keep hold of our
traditions while we also have very modern facilities.” With 500 students is it not overwhelming? “We do have nearly 500 students across the age range and that is the size we want the school to stay; we can still value the individual. I teach as well as run the school and I can honestly say I know all the girls here. This place makes you feel as if you are part of the fabric and the history. I am just the custodian and eventually I will hand the school over to someone else; I am proud to be the latest of a long line of female Head Teachers. Jane finished our meeting with the thoughts of the students themselves. “The student body were asked to produce their own mission statement for the school, they liked words such as community, creative, independent and ambitious; and those were the words they gave us. “When I arrived here I asked for three things they liked about Portsmouth High and three things they would like to see changed. The three likes were the environment they worked in, the staff and each other. The three changes, well, the three-yearolds wanted a bouncy castle; and in the end it just boiled down to some minor changes such as a slight change in uniform, there was nothing serious that the student body saw wrong with their place of learning. “It is their school! And, the Mission Statement they came up with… Portsmouth High School is a community of learning committed to academic excellence and encouraging girls to be creative, independent and ambitious in a caring and friendly environment.”
023 9282 6714 . Kent Road, Southsea, PO5 3EQ Portsmouth High School is part of the Girls’ Day School Trust, a charity, which is the leading network of independent girls’ schools in the UK. All income is reinvested in the 24 schools and two academies. www.gdst.net words by David Rose-Massom
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Entrance Examination
Saturday 19 January 2013 for entry in September 2013
Year 7 2013 Assessments Dates 31 January & 1 February 2013 Please contact our Admissions Officer for further information and to register your daughter. www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk . E: admissions@por.gdst.net Kent Road, Southsea, Hampshire PO5 3EQ An independent education for girls from Nursery to Sixth Form Part of the Girls’ Day School Trust network of schools www.gdst.net
Contact the Admissions Office for information about Taster Days and to register admissions@meoncross.co.uk Meoncross School Burnt House Lane Stubbington PO14 2EF 01329 662182 ∙ www.meoncross.co.uk ∙
Industry-standard training facilities at Fareham College Here at Fareham College we pride ourselves on the highly professional training areas for all of our courses. We want to ensure students learn in an industry-standard environment to prepare them for the workplace when they leave college or university. Key areas of interest include the College’s, silver-service, fine-dining restaurant, Chequers, which recently hosted the Mayor’s Civic Luncheon. The running of the restaurant and food produced is all completed by the students; many of whom have won awards at the annual Wessex Salon Culinaire. Recent leavers have gone on to The Grove, a 5* hotel and Chewton Glen, an opulent hotel in the New Forest. Students also run The Salons, providing a wealth of hairdressing, beauty and holistic therapies treatments. All of these are available at very competitive prices and use industry products which are regularly on offer such as Dermalogica, Shellac and Minx. The College understands the importance of providing the very best for its students and this has been reflected in the refurbishment of the soon-to-be-opened Performing Arts Centre. Here, investment has been made by opening a dance studio, an iMac Suite, refurbished recording studios and the Theatre, where this year’s panto, Aladdin, will take place. This will be 18th-20th December with matinee and evening performances. To book tickets email boxoffice@fareham.ac.uk.
To find out more go to www.fareham.ac.uk, find us on Facebook and Twitter, or call (01329) 815200.
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Fareham College presents
Aladdin 18-20 December 2012
Daily performances: 2pm and 7pm
Special 10.30am performance on Wednesday and Thursday for schools Daytime shows: Free of charge Evening tickets: £3 concessions £5 Adults
01329 815 200
boxoffice@fareham.ac.uk
solent | homes
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We would like to wish you a Merry Christmas!
green fingers
December Gardening Now the leaves have mostly fallen from the trees, we’re in the dormant period, which marks the planting season. Now is the time to do woody planting, which is trees and shrubs, including soft fruit and top fruit. Getting the majority in before Christmas is ideal, to avoid the coldest weather and so the roots will have time to settle in before spring.
Supplied by Garsons Garden Centre www.garsons.co.uk . Images by Paul Gibbons
Consider planting a hedge rather than putting up a fence. They’re home to a host of plants and animals that improve our environment considerably by weaving wildlife corridors into the landscape. Native hedges have been removed from the countryside to make way for bigger fields that are easier to farm with heavy machinery, but there is no reason why they shouldn’t be included in our gardens. Stock plants are cheap if you buy them in bundles as bare root plants. A hawthorn hedge is great, and for diversity, use it as a 50% foundation and weave into the mix wild rose, hazel, wild cornus, guelder rose and wild privet. The additions will provide a range of flowers and berries to attract the birds and add seasonal interest. If space allows, plant a double row, staggered a foot apart, with about five plants per metre. Cut the young whips back by half to help promote dense branches. Whether you’re planting natives or a more cultivated hedge such as beech or hornbeam, thorough preparation is never time wasted. Dig farmyard manure or compost into your planting trench or hole and add a handful of blood, fish and bone per square metre. Keep the base of the hedge weed-free with a mulch or mulch mat. Yew and holly can also go in now. Keep new additions watered in during dry spells and check the planting tips at garsons.co.uk. Mulch once the soil is moist, and before frost gets into the ground. Bare soil is not a natural state and mulching provides a protective
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eiderdown over the winter and prevents soil erosion and leaching of nutrients. Landscape bark, mushroom compost, leaf mould and farmyard manure are great soil improvers – stock up on some bags from the garden centre. You can now winter prune fruit. Collect a free fruit grower’s handbook from Garsons, which is a very helpful guide. Stone fruit shouldn’t be pruned in winter as the sap is being drawn back into the trees. Buddleia, clematis, wisteria and anything potentially tender should be left until the end of winter to avoid die-back in hard frosts. In wind-prone areas, where wind rock is an issue, recurrent flowering roses that are prone can be reduced in height by a third to prevent the wind catching them. Re-prune them in March. Next month we’ll be talking more about helping your garden wildlife through the winter. Meanwhile, remember to provide an unfrozen water supply and high energy food for our feathered friends. Looking for gifts for gardeners? The garden centre is full of inspiration, from cyclamen and orchids as indoor houseplants to shiny new garden tools.
Until next month, happy gardening and merry Christmas!
solent | nature
Join us today
Winter Wildlife With the shortest day of the year looming we often find it tricky getting the time to explore the great outdoors. If you want to take advantage of those crisp winter days then why not head to the coast where the best winter wildlife spectacles are taking place. While the woodlands, farmlands and heaths can look lifeless until spring our coastal areas are teaming with life. Images by Jason Crook & Albert Roberts Just before high tide is the best time to see large flocks of birds at Farlington, often swirling over the mudflats, searching for the last few bits that aren’t under water. Taking in the last bits of food before being pushed on to the marsh to roost until the tide retreats. As you walk around there is always plenty to see. Many of these birds will have made lengthy journeys from Scandinavia, Russia or Iceland, and will have lost up to half their body weight in the process. So it’s very important they feed up over the winter months and put this weight back on for the return flight and to maintain body condition for raising young next summer. On your journey around Farlington take time to have a look at the Deeps, a lagoon on the eastern edge of the marsh. This is fantastic place to see some of our over wintering wildfowl. Such as Wigeon, Pintail, and Gadwall. There have also been rarities such as the Red-breasted goose spotted here recently. Looking into the harbour at low tide and seeing the expanse of mud, its perhaps not obvious what these birds are feeding on. The mudflats appear barren and unproductive but they actually produce as much biomass (the total weight of plants and animals) as any tropical rainforest. Each cubic meter of mud is home to thousands of shrimps, worms and snails. They burrow into 56…
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the mud, using it for protection against drying out as the tide recedes. These tiny animals provide an energy-rich diet for any bird that is equipped to get at them. Just as a long slender bill allows the humming bird to extract nectar from deep bell-shaped tropical flowers, the same bill design allows wading birds such as the curlew, godwit and redshank to probe the soft mud and feed on these buried morsels. It’s not all birds at Farlington though. If you’re lucky you might see one of Langstone Harbours resident seals! For further reserves news, recent sightings and wildlife stories, please keep an eye on the ever changing pages of our Solent Reserves Blog. It can be found at www.solentreserves.wordpress.com Your local Wildlife Trust The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust works to create a better future for wildlife and wild places in Hampshire and the Island. As the leading local wildlife conservation charity, it looks after 61 wildlife reserves, has 27,000 members and 1,000 volunteers. The Trust manages its own land and advises other landowners how to manage their land with wildlife in mind. Staff and volunteers also carry out surveys and gather data to monitor how our local wildlife is doing. Find out more at www.hwt.org.uk
…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 774 408. Unlimited FREE visits to over 55 wildlife reserves in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and 2,500 reserves nationwide A welcome pack when you join Hampshire and Isle of Wight Natural World, the Wildlife Trust’s magazine, delivered to you (or your partner) three times a year The chance to take part in local group and community activities… offering you a variety of opportunities to be involved in more than 400 walks, talks and events throughout the two counties Join by Direct Debit and receive your FREE full colour Local Wildlife Reserve Guide Visit www.hwt.org.uk and discover your local Wildlife Trust
Events in December Can you help? We need help checking the cattle that roam the marshes. It is very simple, can be done as part of a walk around the sea wall and you do not need to get too close to the cows. If you can spare a few hours, please call Rob Skinner on 01489 774429. Visiting Farlington Marshes Local Nature Reserve Farlington Marshes is 125 hectare of coastal grazing marsh situated south of the A27 between Portsmouth and Havant. The reserve is managed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust on behalf of its owners Portsmouth City Council. How to get there Rail: Hilsea train station is 1½ miles from the reserve with trains from Fareham and Porchester every 30minutes. Bus: The First 63 bus runs from Fareham and Portchester to Farlington every hour on Monday to Friday with a reduced service at weekends. The First 21 service runs from Portsmouth Hard Interchange to Havant, stopping on the Eastern Road. Road: The car park is off the Eastern Road roundabout (A27/A2030)
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Events across the Solent region.
what’s
THE EVENT During this year’s pantomime, The Mayflower Theatre will become a leader in accessibility for all when, for one afternoon matinee only, the cast and crew of Jack and the Beanstalk will present a…
The Point, Eastleigh 02380 652333 Chichester Festival Theatre 01243 781312 Salisbury Playhouse 01722 320333 Mayflower Theatre 02380 711811 Theatre Royal Winchester 01962 840440 King’s Theatre Southsea 02392 828282 Tower Arts Centre, Winchester 01962 867986 Ferneham Hall 01329 231942 Ashcroft Arts Centre Fareham 01329 310600 The Concorde Club 02380 613989
If you have anything going on, tell us here at Solent Life and we will include it in our feature. 01489 583800 editorial@solentlife.co.uk
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Relaxed Performance
When Solent Life Editor, Dave Hill, heard about this, he sent me out to discover more and so we visited Karen Templeton-Mepstead the Outreach Services Manager for Hampshire Autistic Society. “Some places have dabbled in something like this previously but when the Front of House Manager for the Mayflower, Gareth Carr, attended a conference on disability access in theatres, he realised that the focus was more on physical access. But actually, so many of the other key problems are about having few facilities for people who are disabled but do not necessarily have a physical disability,” Karen explained. “The Society thought about working with theatre productions to develop a “relaxed – disability friendly” performance last year but it was too short notice and it needed to be organised properly if we were going to do it. This year the production company, Qdos Entertainment – the world’s largest pantomime producers; came on board straight away and invited us to London to discuss how it would work.” Would it be just a simple case of lights up and noise levels more subdued to avoid sensory overload? “It is more complicated than that as it involves the technicians, the orchestra, cast and even the agents of the cast and star performers. Qdos and The Mayflower have been amazing,” Karen continued. “We all had the feeling that this needed to be more of a positive experience, rather than simply a relaxed performance for people with autism. The Mayflower staff are being trained in autism awareness to help them understand what it is, as well as what to expect from someone affected by the condition. “Then we will work with the cast, as a lot of what they do is reactive with the audience and they may not get the reactions they expect. The lighting levels in the auditorium will be raised, lower sound levels and fewer shock sounds such as bangs and shouts. We (Mayflower, Hampshire Autistic Society and Forest Forge) have produced a Social
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
Story Book which is a complete printed ‘walk through’ for the parents and the person affected by autism. This will describe what to expect on arrival at the front of theatre, who they will meet in the foyer, where the toilets are. There will also be a synopsis of the show which will be given to parents/carers on arrival so that they will be aware of any noises and 3D elements in the show. This will allow them to make informed choices on whether the person with autism will be comfortable with the effect and can take them out into the ‘quiet area’ for moments when they need to get away from the action,” she added. “This special performance is not just about those people suffering with autism, but about anyone with disabilities. It’s also about their families and siblings, coming along and enjoying what is a brilliant experience for everyone.” Karen also explained that this Relaxed Performance is just a small part of an ‘access to arts’ programme for young people with autism. “We have musicians and theatre groups and it is our job to expand the opportunities for people with autism; we want to give people a real choice. We are all good at something and we will never discover what we are good at until we have a go!”
Relaxed Performance On Tuesday 15th January at 1.30pm there will be a relaxed performance of Jack and the Beanstalk. This is a specially adapted performance for customers with a wide range of disabilities and for those on the autistic spectrum. Access and downloads to the Beanstalk Social Stories is available through the Mayflower website. www.mayflower.org.uk www.has.org.uk E-mail outreach@has.org.uk for more details.
Image by Malcolm Bull
Music, Comedy, Events & Theatre BIFFY CLYRO: Fresh from a triumphant return to the live arena, Biffy Clyro will be bringing their biggest arena tour to date to the BIC Windsor Hall early next year following the release of their eagerly anticipated new double-album, Opposites. BIC WINDSOR HALL. Tues 26 March 2013 at 7.30 Tickets: £28.50. Call the BH Live Tickets on 0844 576 3000, book online at www.bic.co.uk or visit the BIC or Bournemouth Pavilion Ticket Office in person. NIGEL KENNEDY PRESENTS: BACH PLUS FATS WALLER: This show really is a case of buy now while stocks last as tickets for this event will be selling quickly. World-famous violinist, Nigel Kennedy, presents a typically maverick musical programme celebrating the music of Bach and Fats Waller. The concert begins with Bach sonatas and partidas for solo violin, after which he is joined on stage by an acoustic guitarist, a drummer and a double bass player to perform Kennedy’s own arrangements of the music of the legendary Fats Waller. Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre; Wed 1st May 2013 at 7:30pm. Call the BH Live Tickets on 0844 576 3000, book online at www.bic.co.uk or visit the BIC or Bournemouth Pavilion Ticket Office in person Tickets: £29.50, £34.50 & £39.50. THE NUTCRACKER – CHRISTMAS MUSICAL: Let yourself be swept up in the excitement of Christmas with one of the most famous classical stories of all time, Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker; this unparalleled, world famous story is brought to life in a new musical set to delight audiences. Complete with sets and costumes, this is one not to be missed! What more could a young girl ask for at Christmas, than for all her dreams to come true? Previews: £2 OFF each Ticket Price Show only! Adults £12, Children £9.50, Concessions £10, School bookings £5 Teachers go free Tuesday 11th December until Friday 21st December at 2pm & 7pm various times during run. Tickets: Adults £18, Children £14 Concessions £16, Family Ticket with meal £54. 59…
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
Tickets include a 2 course Christmas meal served during the show. Unreserved rear seats, show only: £14 Adults, Children £10.50, £12 Concessions. Contact the box office on 023 9273 7370. Groundlings Theatre, 42 Kent Street, Portsmouth, PO1 3BS. ALADDIN: Presented by the Bench Theatre. This exciting Christmas production is Aladdin written by Mark Wakeman and is suitable for all the family. Aladdin is searching for adventure... Princess Puddle is searching for a way to escape marrying a man she doesn’t love... the evil (and magnificently hairy) magician Nostrodominos who is searching for a way to take over the kingdom and become ruler of the world... These three people will find themselves thrown together on a great and amazing adventure to find a long lost relic and uncover the truth behind the legend of the magic lamp... This Christmas, Bench Theatre takes you on an amazing adventure as Aladdin must find the magic lamp to save the world!!! The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, Havant. Running from 6th -16th December £8.95, £6.50 Concessions £24 for a family of four (2 Adults and 2 children under 16) Group Ticket: Buy 10 tickets and get an eleventh ticket free. A Christmas pre-show supper is available on Friday 7th and Friday 14th December. www.thespring.co.uk. BURNING THE CLOCKS: A unique celebration: On the shortest day of every year, Burning the Clocks is a unique community ritual that takes place in Brighton. The event sees local residents parade paper and willow lanterns that they’ve made through the city, before they pass them into a huge bonfire on the beach. Each maker invests their hopes and fears into a lantern before giving them up the fire. Then the coming year is ushered in with a dazzling fire show during which a massive fire sculpture is ignited, live music plays, and fireworks light up the sky. Burning the Clocks was created in 1994 by local community art charity, Same Sky, as an antidote to the excesses of the commercial Christmas and as a way for the people of Brighton to celebrate
the festive season, regardless of faith or creed. Over 1,000 people now take part in the parade and over 20,000 spectators turn out to watch. Burning the Clocks takes place on 21st December. The event is free and the route is suitable for all ages and abilities. More information can be found at www.samesky.co.uk. THE HOUSE OF BURLESQUE: Such is the popularity of this traditional theatrical art form that it has once again become mainstream entertainment. The decadent and delightful House of Burlesque returns once more to Southsea early next year to kick off the Kings Theatre’s shows in 2013. The cream of the burlesque and cabaret crop will be featuring... Piff the Magic Dragon - Magical Dragon, Internet Sensation, Kidnapper of princesses and owner of tiny magic dog; Burlesque revolutionary, Kittie Klaw; New York City’s belly dance superstar Rio and tap-dancing diva Josephine Shaker... plus so much more! KINGS THEATRE, Southsea, Friday 1st February at 7:30pm. Please note suitable for age 14+ . Contains adult content. Tickets £14 - £12. www. kings-southsea.com. ELVIS ON TOUR – FEATURING GORDON HENDRICKS: This show takes you through all the great songs from the 50’s to the Vegas years and has all the power, authenticity and charisma of Elvis’ shows with powerful vocals, fantastic band and singers that have the audience believing they are seeing the King himself. Gordon Hendricks, crowned “European Elvis Champion 2011”, will be bringing Elvis on Tour to Bournemouth. Gordon Hendricks appeared as Elvis on Stars in Their Eyes on ITV and won the 2005 Grand Final with a record number of viewer votes. BOURNEMOUTH PAVILION THEATRE, Sunday 27th January - Tickets are on sale now. Call the BH Live Tickets on 0844 576 3000, book online at www.bic.co.uk or visit the BIC or Bournemouth Pavilion Ticket Office.
out&
about
Solent Life has been venturing out across the region to capture and bring to you some images from the notable events of the past few weeks…
words & images by david rose-massom
REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY
In towns and villages, shops and homes, normal life came to a standstill for Remembrance Day, we visited Winchester where thousands gathered by the Cathedral as service men and women, old soldiers, fire-fighters, parents and children all stood for two minutes reflective silence.
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
HECTIC HALF TERM FUN
The Breeze FM were getting hectic in West Quay last month when Breakfast Show Presenter Dave Perry joined forces with The Saints Foundation and presented a local dance troupe and plenty of activities for Half Term.
BONFIRE NIGHT CELEBRATIONS
November 5th may have been Bonfire Night but over a week or so displays were ignited across the South. Solent Life were invited to Explosions Museum on Gosport to enjoy a wonderful display on the waterfront.
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
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You will also a chance to attend a FREE ofcompanies charge pre-event training breakfast to pick You will also have a chance to attend a FREE of charge pre-event training breakfast to pick up tips on how to best sell your products and services to major buyers. You will also a chance attend a FREE of charge training breakfast to pick up have tips on how to to best sell your products and pre-event services to major buyers. You will also a chance attend a Event FREE of pre-event training breakfast up have tips on how to to best sell your products services to major buyers. Through our Meet the Buyers wecharge areand able to further enhance your to pick You will also have a chance to attend a Event FREE of charge pre-event training breakfast to pick up tips on how to best sell your products and services to major buyers. Through our Meet the Buyers we are able to further enhance your You willvisit alsoby have a chance to attend a FREE of people chargeyou pre-event breakfast getting you direct access to the wish totraining do business with.to pick up tips on how to best sell your products and services to major buyers. Through our Meet the Buyers Event we are able to further enhance your visit getting youtodirect access the people you wish to business with. upby tips on bestBuyers sell yourtoproducts services to do major buyers. Through ourhow Meet the wepeople areand able further enhance your visit by getting you direct accessEvent to the youtowish to do business with. Through our Meet the Buyers Event we are able to further enhance your visit by getting you direct accessEvent to the youtowish to do business with. Through our Meet the Buyers wepeople are able further enhance your visit by getting you direct access to the people you wish to do business with. visit by getting you direct access to the people you wish to do business with.
6 March 2013 at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton 6 March 2013 at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton 6 March 2013 at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton 6 March 2013 at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton 6 6 March March 2013 2013 at at the the Ageas Ageas Bowl, Bowl, Southampton Southampton
Also Also for Also for Also FREE for Also FREE for Also FREE for FREE for FREE FREE Learn how to pitch Learn howSector to pitch to Public Learn how to pitch to Public Sector Learn howSector to pitch Organisations to Public Learn how to Organisations to Public Sector Learn how to pitch pitch Organisations to Public Sector Organisations to Public Sector Organisations Organisations
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Young Photographer
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of the Year
Sponsored by David Rose-Massom words by david rose-massom
T
he winner of the David Rose-Massom 2012 Young Photographer of the Year is 15 year old Johnathan Swann. He has been selected as our winner not only because of his obvious photographic talents but also as he seemed an apt recipient in a year when he has achieved so much in the face of hardship. Despite being visually impaired Johnathan continues to practice his love of photography and his camera helps him visually as he can bring things in close that are too far for him to see. Johnathan was born with Nystagmus, a condition that causes an involuntary movement of the eyes which often seriously reduces visual acuity, and also has congenital stationary night blindness causing difficulty seeing in low light. Congratulations Johnathan your determination against adversity is to be applauded and we will be contacting you shortly to present you with your award.
photo 2013
competition
December’s Photo Competition
winner...
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@lcegroup.co.uk
THE RULES: All images must be taken by the named photographer and the photographer should not be a professional (eg earning the bulk of their income from photography). Images should be ‘landscape’ in format, saved as Jpegs and named for their location. Images should then be sent via email as high resolution and accompanied clearly with name, address and a contact number. The judges decision each month and for Photographer of the Year is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Send your entries to calendarcompetition@solentlife.co.uk DON’T FORGET THAT THIS YEAR we have an extra prize of The Young Photographer of the Year. Our thanks for the continued sponsorship from the London Camera Exchange, Fareham branch.
David Blaikie 64…
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
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8.
Cover (5)
20 A return made with the back of the hand facing the direction of the stroke (8)
11.
Artifacts relating to the heritage of the U.S. (9)
Tells a white lie (4,3,5)
10 Confinement (8)
22 Popular yorkshire dish (4,2,3,4) 24 Fruity dessert (6,5)
8 1 6 3 2 4 8 3 4 6 7 5 3 8 1 5
13. Stimulant (8) 16. Sharp (5) 17. A prayer (6) 18. Farewell (5) 21. Capital of Peru (4) 23. Broad sash worn by a Japanese women (3)
www.sudoku-puzzles.net
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
4 5 7 9 1 8 2 3 6
3 9 1 2 6 5 4 8 7
6 2 8 7 3 4 9 5 1
9 7 6 5 8 3 1 4 2
5 1 3 6 4 2 8 7 9
8 4 2 1 9 7 3 6 5
2 3 9 8 7 6 5 1 4
1 6 4 3 5 9 7 2 8
7 8 5 4 2 1 6 9 3
2
6 3 2 1 5 4 9 7 8
7 4 1 9 3 8 2 5 6
9 8 5 6 2 7 1 3 4
5 2 6 4 8 1 3 9 7
4 9 3 2 7 6 8 1 5
1 7 8 5 9 3 4 6 2
3 5 4 7 1 2 6 8 9
8 6 7 3 4 9 5 2 1
2 1 9 8 6 5 7 4 3
.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
A L I 8 O S R U T H I A 12 U S E D I E X A R 18 N A H A N D I 23 H O L E B U L I T
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A D A E T E E 13 P 15 P I C C K M H E U S P
COPYRIGHT
With many thanks to www.sudoku-puzzles.net for the sudoku puzzles, and www.dowedo.net for supplying the crossword puzzle.
MM A T H O U R I D 17 M 20 B A N N T R N A
check your answers here!
M U H A 7 A R S 9 B E N D S A A 10 11 C L A U S K M S 14 T E P I 16 R N A 19 C L I P 21 U C L 22 T O A D I N E M 24 B A N A
solutions
DECEMBER Your essential guide to all the local news and events in your community. with a coffee morning at the Victory Hall on Wednesday 9th January from 10 until 12, to which members and nonVenue: The Victory Hall, Warsash members will be welcome. Visitors and Date and time: Friday 21st and Saturday new members are always welcome. 22nd December at 7.30pm. Ticket For further information please ring information: Adults £7.00, Concessions 01489 584923. £5.50, with a reduction of 50p per ticket LEE-ON-THE-SOLENT when bought before 21st Dec. RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION HAMPSHIRE WRITERS’ Monthly Community BOOST Event SOCIETY -Table Top 19th December - Methodist Tuesday December 11th at 7.30pm Church Hall, Lee High Street, Lee-onSeveral Shades of Dickens. Speakers: the-Solent, set up at 9.00am and open Rosalinda Hardiman from the Charles to the public between 9.30 -13.00pm. Dickens Museum and Steve Tasane Meet community groups/organisations. Performance Artist will celebrate the To book a table, 6ft at £6.00 and 4ft at life and work of Dickens as you’ve £4.00, payable on the day at the BOOST not seen before... Venue: The Stripe events, contact Ray Harding 023 92 Building, University of Winchester, 551706 or Gill Masterson 023 92 551303. Sparkford Road, Winchester SO22 4NR ADVICE ON ASH DIEBACK For more information see: DISEASE www.hampshirewriterssociety.co.uk or contact: Barbara Large MBE FRSA, Fareham Borough Council has HFUW - Telephone: 01962 827238 confirmed that no evidence of Ash E: Barbara.Large@winchester.ac.uk Dieback (Chalara Fraxinea) has been WARSASH BAND CHRISTMAS CONCERT
THE NEW MUSIC MAKERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Seasonal music with verse and singalong carols at Hedge End Methodist Church in St John’s Road on Saturday 15th December at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets £7 (£5 concessions) with refreshments included are available from JESTERS JEWELLERY in Hedge End or by phoning 01489 781836 WARSASH WOMENS’ INSTITUTE The next meeting of the WI is on Thursday December 13th when Mrs O Butler will tell us of her “Experiences as a Childrens’ Entertainer”. We will also be enjoying our Christmas “afternoon tea” on that day. We start the New Year
found in Fareham or Hampshire, but is asking residents to remain vigilant and visit the Forestry Commission’s website http://www.forestry.gov.uk/chalara for advice on how to spot and report the disease. Ash dieback is a disease of ash trees caused by a fungus which results in leaf loss and dieback and may lead to tree death. For further information please visit the Trees Page at www.fareham.gov.uk contact the Tree Team on 01329 236100. E-mail conservation@fareham.gov.uk ART DECO JEWELLERY MAKING At SEARCH, 50 Clarence Road, Gosport. PO12 1BU on Thursday 13 December. 3.30 - 6.00pm (ages 12-17) and 6.30pm to 9.00pm (Adults 18+) Have a go at
IF YOU HAVE A LOCAL EVENT Let us know at info@solentlife.co.uk
Please note we need 6-8 weeks notice of events.
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.co.uk • DECEMBER 2012
making your own ‘Dazzling’ Jewellery. Tickets £12 (includes materials). Please book Tel 023 9252 3463. www.hants.gov.uk/gdc DAZZLE! Art Deco Fashions from the Roaring Twenties exhibition that runs until Saturday 29 December at Gosport Gallery, Walpole Road, Gosport. PO12 1NS. Open 10.00am to 4.00pm. (Closed Sunday and Public Holidays). A spectacular display of 1920’s beaded dresses and accessories. Enjoy this rare opportunity to see these stunning and fragile pieces on public display together. Free Admission. www.hants. gov.uk/gosport-gallery ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH, LOCKS HEATH We have a variety of services over the Christmas period, and warmly welcome you to join us on any occasion. Contact the Church Office on 01489 578082 for more information. Sunday 9th December: 4.00pm Christingle Service with Jazz Band: Young children will love this service, and all are warmly welcomed. Sunday 16thDecember: 4.30pm Family Carols 7.00pm Candlelit Carols Monday 24thDecember: Specially designed for children 2.00pm & 3.30pm Crib Service: A short service for little ones. 5.00pm & 7.00pm Candlelight Celebration Quieter services: 9.00pm Evening Holy Communion 11.00pm ‘Midnight’ Holy Communion Tuesday 25thDecember: 08.00am Holy Communion 10.00am All-Age Holy Communion
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• JULY 2011 • solentlife.co.uk
CHRISTOPHER STEPHENS J EWELLERS
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TELEPHONE 023 8028 3777 ALSO OPEN ON SUNDAYS
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