December 2010 / Issue 1 / Free
WIN ONE OF
9 C H R IS TOUR MAS
PRIZES
TECH BUZZ
Our guide to the top 15 iphone apps your phone needs
FASHION Five great ways to style yourself this winter
EAT
LOCAL
We pay a visit to the Old House Hotel in Wickham
DISCOVER
DECEMBER All you need to know about Fareham during this festive period.
BUSINESS TIPS 2011
The South’s local entrepreneurs give us their tips for success
Inside this issue: Fashion / Technology / Local Business / Christmas Gift Ideas / Local Events
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Contents: Issue 1
Contents Features 24
Cover Story
Winter Fashion Kat Nicholls looks at the trends that have gone from catwalk to high street.
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Local Christmas Markets What’s happening in Fareham and at Winchester Cathedral Market this Christmas.
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Toys for Christmas Hawkin’s Baazar in Fareham tell us what toys they are expecting to fly off the shelves this Christmas.
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iPhone Applications
24
Our choice of 15 applications, fit to grace any iPhone.
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Local Business An in-depth look at Taylor Made Computer Solutions and its 16-year journey.
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Business Tips Some of the areas most experienced entrepreneurs give advice on how to succeed with your business plan.
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The Old House Hotel Our featured restaurant with a great recipe to follow.
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Everyone Active We look at how Fareham Leisure Centre has undergone a huge re-development.
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Live & Unsigned Auditions for one the UK’s biggest unsigned music competition are coming to a venue near you.
www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
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3
First Class Treatment
MOT Testing Servicing and Maintenance (including cars still under warranty) Valet Service Fleet & Company Vehicle Maintenance Car Transportation Logistics/Vehicle Transfer Smart Repairs, Interiors and Wheel repairs Accident Repairs Complete Vehicle Refurbishment *Free
Collection and Delivery Service
So if you feel it’s time you were treated like royalty give us a call. *To the following postcode areas: PO14, PO15 and SO31.
We’ll take care of your investment
On presentation of this advert up to the month of January 2011 weOpen are offering 10% labour discount Mon and £5 to off Thurs MOTs!
8.30am to 5.30pm
www.segensworth-automobiles.co.uk Unit 6 & 7 Barratt Industrial Park, Whittle Avenue, Segensworth West, Fareham, Hampshire PO15 5SL *To the following postcodes: PO14, PO15 & SO31
Tel: (01489) 581677
*To the following postcode areas: PO14, PO15 and SO31.
Open MonFriday to Thurs 8.30am to 8.30am to5.30pm 4.30pm. Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm
Welcome: Issue 1
Welcome Think Local Ltd, 25 Barnes Wallis Road, Segensworth East, Fareham. PO15 5TT Phone: 01489 560881 Email: sales@letsthinklocal.co.uk Web: www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
Editorial Team Dominic Lewis, Richard Waldron & Tom O’Malley, editor@letsthinklocal.co.uk Contributing Editor: Eddie Jones, eddie@letsthinklocal.co.uk Creatives Senior Designer: Tom O’Malley, design@letsthinklocal.co.uk Designer: Janette Pearcey, design@letsthinklocal.co.uk Contributors Kat Nicholls, Arcadia Group, Hawkins Bazaar, The Old House Hotel, Live and Unsigned, Everyone Active, Taylor Made, Winchester City Council. Advertising Account Manager: Rebecca Gyles, sales@letsthinklocal.co.uk Account Manager: Debbie Ellis, sales@letsthinklocal.co.uk Think Local Publishers: Dominic Lewis, dominic@letsthinklocal.co.uk Richard Waldron, richard@letsthinklocal.co.uk
NEXT ISSUE: January 2011 Printed by: Precision Colour Printing
© Lets Think Local Limited 2010. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Think Local Limited (company number 07435909) is registered in England and Wales. The Trading address of Lets Think Local Limited is 25 Barnes Wallis Road, Segensworth, East Fareham, PO15 5TT. Lets Think Local Limited use due care and dilligence in the preparation of the magazine but is not responsible or liable for any mistakes, misprints or typographical errors. The views expressed by contributors both professional and amateur are not necessarily those of the publisher or Lets Think Local Limited. Lets Think Local Limited accepts no liability for any loss which may be suffered by any person who relied either wholly or in part upon any description, photograph or statement contained herein. Lets Think Local Limited will however investigate any written complaints. All rights reserved.
“...we are determined to push boundaries, to show our ambition, and most importantly to create a platform that can integrate and benefit the local community with no exceptions.” A warm welcome to the first issue of Think Local, it’s been a long and sometimes daunting road but one that we are truly excited to have walked. Here at Think Local we are determined to push boundaries, to show our ambition, and most importantly to create a platform that can integrate and benefit the local community with no exceptions. We feel there is nothing worse than trawling through a free magazine, slowly being worn down by advert after advert, with the monotony only broken by a poorly written and unrelated article. We believe our publication offers something fresh that’s not only a content rich experience but also contains articles and features that relate to real needs, to a standard you deserve as a reader. We are in the process of creating a digital platform that allows an interactive experience between our readers, the carefully selected advertisers and us, the editorial team. We positively encourage your feedback on the quality of products on offer and our content, as without you what we are trying to achieve would be simply impossible. We have worked hard to offer you deals and offers from a broad range of advertisers that we hope are practical for you. From all of us at Think Local we wish you a very Merry Christmas and hope that the festive season is everything that you hoped for.
Think Local team December cover
On the web December 2010 / Issue 1 / Free
WIN ONE OF
OUR 9 CHR ISTM AS
PRIZES
TECH BUZZ
Our guide to the top 15 iphone apps your phone needs
letsthinklocal. co.uk
FASHION Five great ways to style yourself this winter
EAT
LOCAL
We pay a visit to the Old House Hotel in Wickham
DISCOVER
DECEMBER All you need to know about Fareham during this festive period.
BUSINESS TIPS 2011
The South’s local entrepreneurs give us their tips for success
Inside this issue: Fashion / Technology / Local Business / Christmas Gift Ideas / Local Events
www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
twitter.com/ letsthinklocal
Advert (22.11.10):Layout 1
22/11/2010
11:56
Page 1
Could
YOU
change someone’s
life?
YOU is a dynamic charity working with vulnerable people. This year, we were voted one of the Sunday Times Top 100 Employers to work for. YOU are currently recruiting staff. If you’d like to work for a company which promotes career progression, offers permanent benefits including a final salary pension and childcare voucher schemes, then YOU would like to meet you. We also have Premier Crew vacancies for people who prefer to work flexibly and are interesting in joining our bank of agency staff. We have a selection of full and part time vacancies in Portsmouth, Southsea, Fareham, Gosport, Waterlooville and Havant. We also have volunteering roles for people not looking for paid work.
Find out more on 9 December at the Aspex Gallery in Gun Wharf 12:30-18:00pm. Staff will be on hand to tell you about the company and all our current opportunities.
Feature: Fareham Christmas Events
local events of note Sunday 28th of November Birds at Bunny Meadows. Venue: Passage Lane Car Park, Warsash Time: 1.30 – 3pm Enjoy a short guided walk along the banks of the river Hamble in search of Kingfishers and other seasonal birdlife, perfect for a day out with your camera. Admission is £4 per adult and £2 per accompanying child (suitable for ages 12+). Contact: Phone 01329 662145 E-mail: richard.levett@hants.gov.uk
Family fun in Fareham As December approaches temperatures drop, the winds pick up and the opportunity to spend the day in the confines of a thick duvet becomes ever more appealing. Often the Christmas period can be just as daunting as it is exciting. However the thought of long days spent Christmas shopping needn’t keep you awake at night. Fareham and its surrounding area offer a huge array of events, entertainment and family fun that can bring back the festive cheer and make life easier for all at this hectic time the year. From a traditional Christmas farmers market to an authentic Santa’s grotto, Fareham town centre will be a hive of activity during the festive period. Live music acts and charity events will be plentiful as the build up to the big day begins. From Sunday the 21st of November Fareham Shopping Centre will welcome Santa and his grotto in the form of his Christmas workshop. From the 25th of November the first late night shopping evening will take place continuing every Thursday until Christmas with shops staying open until 7.30pm. The Christmas build up continues on the 26th when the West Street Performance Podium will welcome the first of many live music acts that will play throughout December.
www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
“...Fareham and its surrounding area offer a huge array of events, entertainment and family fun...”
Saturday 4th of December Hook-with-Warsash Primary School Christmas Fair. Venue: Hook-with-Warsash C of E Primary School Time: 11am – 2pm The school in Church Road will have a variety of stalls selling a range of items, many of which will make ideal Christmas presents. There will be plenty on offer during the event with refreshments, crafts, tombolas, games, various children’s activities and a Santa’s Grotto. Doors are open between 11am and 2pm. Entrance to the fair is £1 per adult and free for children. All the funds raised will be used to support the school and activities for pupils. Contact: hww.ptfa@gmail.com
On the 18th of December a special Christmas Farmers Market will be held in Fareham West Street. Around 40 of the areas finest producers will be selling the best of their produce directly to the public. A wonderful array of goods will be on offer including freshly picked organic fruit and vegetables, free range eggs, fish from local waters and rare breed meats. With the quality goods on offer, Christmas lunch promises to be something special this year. Here at Think Local we are always interested in what is going on in the local area. If you are holding or know of an event in the Solent area that you would like to publicise then please don’t hesitate to let us know. Contact me at eddie@letsthinklocal.com
Saturday 11th of December Broadlaw Community Space Xmas Fair. Venue: Broadlaw Community Space, Mitre Court, Bishopsfield Road, Fareham. Time: 11am Meet Father Xmas. Do some crafts. Get your last minute gifts at pocket money prices! There will be a tabletop sale, a raffle, tombola and mince pies. Admission is free. Contact: jadsia1@ntlworld.com or www.broadlaw.org
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Feature: Winchester Christmas Market
Photo: Courtesy of Joe Lowe
Winchester Christmas Market An awe inspiring annual event set in the heart of Winchester between Thursday 25th November – Sunday 19th December Sheltering below the spires of its historic cathedral, Winchester Christmas Market is arguably one of the finest in the UK. From its picturesque boutiques that line the cobbled streets to its open-air ice rink, Winchester offers a bustling festive atmosphere that is hard to beat. Whether it’s the Christmas food and drink or the plentiful arts and crafts, ideal for gifts, Winchester is the perfect location to kick-start your Christmas. Inspired by the traditional German Christmas markets, the pretty wooden chalets are situated in the Cathedral’s historic Inner Close. Many people visit just to see this wonderful sight, particularly as dusk falls and the pretty pea lights begin to sparkle beneath the dominant backdrop of the Cathedral.
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“Winchester offers a bustling festive atmosphere that is hard to replicate. Whether it’s the Christmas food and drink or the plentiful arts and crafts, it’s perfect for gifts.” Lovers of genuine designer crafts should head to the British Crafts Village within the Christmas Market. You’ll find the jewellers, textile artists, painters and glass makers with all their wonderful products, perfect for that special gift. Also within the Christmas Market is a festive food court selling a wide range of delicious hot and cold treats including German bratwurst, gluwein, pastries, roasts, hot chocolate, cakes, crepes and Belgium waffles.
The ice rink provides a wonderful winter playground and a great way to spend time with friends and family. There’s an adjoining café, which offers a warm retreat after a brisk skate or a great place for spectators to enjoy the thrills and spills on the ice. Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a nativity and there are several versions within the Cathedral and Close, including a live nativity on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the Christmas Market.
Photo Above: The Winchester Christmas market in all it’s dickensian glory.
www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
Feature: Winchester Christmas Market
For information about all these great events and full service listings, please visit www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk or contact Winchester’s Tourist Information Centre on 01962 840500.
Prices & Availibilty Adults: £9.50 Concession: £7.50 Family: (2 adults, 2 children) £32.00 Tickets are available to purchase for ice skating online from www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk or by phone on 01962 857 276. Discounts apply online. The Market is Free to the general public.
Photo: Courtesy of Brynja Maughan
“The ice rink provides a wonderful winter playground and a great way to spend time with friends and family.”
Photo: Courtesy of Joe Lowe
www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
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Feature: Toys for Christmas
“...‘Dave The Funky Shoulder Monkey’ is going to be hugely popular this Christmas. He is one of our most advanced toys in the store...” Priced at £25
A bazaar
interview in Fareham Christmas is here, Eddie Jones speaks with Kim from Hawkin’s Bazaar to find out which toys will be weighing down Santa’s sledge this year 10 think local
Picture the scene. You spend a fortune on the latest and greatest toys of the year for your children, the wrapping is gone in seconds, the box is thrown aside and the present is greeted with utter surprise and delight. Unfortunately this reaction lasts, if we are lucky, a matter of hours, until they realise that the box the present came in is also the perfect vehicle to attempt an imaginary voyage to the moon. This year however the box has competition. Don’t be surprised if after reading your child’s Christmas wish list that most toys mentioned wouldn’t look out of place on a NASA spaceshuttle. Technology is tipped to be a huge success this festive period with interactive toys leading the way. But before you apply for that second mortgage,
“Don’t be surprised if after reading your child’s Christmas wish list that most toys mentioned wouldn’t look out of place on a real NASA spacecraft. ”
www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
Feature: Toys for Christmas
“The most popular choice amongst the boys, easy to fly, with hours of fun to be had in the air” Priced at £30
“ ...it appears as if the fairy is flying completely unaided...” Priced at £15
a whole variety of toys tipped to be hot this year are not only high-tech but low price. We spoke to Kim from Fareham toy store ‘Hawkin’s Bazaar’ who told us about 2010’s best sellers. Eddie: Hi Kim, as you guys prepare for the Christmas rush what are you expecting to be a hit amongst the boys? Kim:‘For the boys its got to be the ‘Remote Control Eagle Helicopter’. It’s extremely easy to fly which means that anybody can get it up in the air. Its lightweight enough to be used indoors but strong enough to survive those bumps and crashes.’ Eddie: And how about the girls? ‘There is plenty of great stuff in store for
www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
girls, but a real favourite is going to be the ‘Flitter Fairies’. With the use of the wand and a little bit of practice it appears as if the fairy is flying completely unaided and she flutters her wings when doing so. There are three different fairy designs to pick from and unlimited fun to be had.’
Eddie: And finally, what would you suggest for those of us who are shopping on a tight budget? ‘With the exception of our ‘Scalextric World Rally Set’ that retails at £60 there is nothing in store for over £35. We believe that our toys are not only great fun but great value too.’
Eddie: And what are you expecting to be this year’s most popular toy? ‘I think ‘Dave The Funky Shoulder Monkey’ is going to be hugely popular this Christmas. He is one of our most advanced toys in the store and will entertain everyone. With over 30 behaviours and thousands of sequences possible he is truly interactive and with a little bit of practice using the remote control, can supply you with endless fun.
This Christmas it seems that interactive, technology based toys will capture your child’s imagination and keep them entertained for hours on end.
Thanks to Hawkins Bazaar in Westbury Mall, Fareham (www.hawkinsbazaar.com)
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Express FM is delighted to be one of Think Local's business associates.
Since its inception 4 years ago, 93.7 Express FM has firmly cemented itself as the premier community radio station broadcasting in Portsmouth and across the South Coast. Station Director Cheryl Buggy explains how it all began, "Some 5 years ago, over a lunch with my then business partner Chris Carnegy, we began explore ideas about combining the two things we loved, radio and teaching. We wanted to enable people in Portsmouth and the surrounding areas, especially young people, to learn and grow. We had already run a variety of successful radio workshops in the Portsmouth area, so when OFCOM invited bids for 5-year community licence we grabbed the opportunity. Express FM became only the 6th community licence to ever be awarded in the UK, which was an honour but also a daunting prospect. But thanks to our strong consortium, consisting of University of Portsmouth, Highbury College, the Portsmouth Youth Service, Portsmouth College and the local Education Business Partnership we were up and running in no time." Since the station launched in 2006 many new members have been added to its consortium along with a training division, as the station has gone from strength to strength. This year coverage of all Portsmouth Football matches along with 2 weekly football shows have been added to the station’s portfolio Run by a dedicated team of 5 staff and over 100 volunteers Express FM produces a comprehensive daytime schedule, with news, travel and weather as well as music ranging from the 60’s to the present day. But when the sun goes down the evening schedule diversifies, offering over 42 specialist shows covering everything from The Arts to Folk Music, from Dance Music to Multi-Culturalism. Thanks to its diverse and educated schedule Express FM holds its own amongst its direct competition by being a true representative of the community and the people within its listening region.
To give you a flavour of what Express has to offer, read on….. Tuesday night is Arts Night on Express FM. Write On with Rob Richardson, published writer and founder of WriteInvite, alternates with Art on Air hosted by Peter Sopp, weekly from 7pm. Drawing in big name guests, both locally and from around the globe, Write On & Art on Air are driven by their presenters, guests and listeners passion for their chosen subject. Then Thursdays take a different direction with Business Express. Starting again at 7pm, Miles Henson, Training and Development Director at Taylor Made in Fareham, gives you the low down on what is going on in the business world, plus chats to guests from local businesses, every week, for hints and tips on how to be successful. PFC football is covered on Monday and Friday complete with phone –in, along with live broadcast from all the matches. On a Wednesday we cover other local teams in the Grassroots Football Show The weekend is then rounded off nicely on Sunday by world-renowned Roots man, Shep Woolley bringing you everything from homegrown Roots to long forgotten Sea Shanties. Originally a Midlands man, Shep has lived in Portsmouth for many, many years and is passionate about the city and keeping its culture alive. Listen to Shep on Sundays from 5pm. To hear all the brilliant things Express FM has to offer, you can tune in to 93.7 Express FM or come and see us at one of the many Live Outside Broadcasts we do at events across the South. For more information check out www.expressfm.com.
If you’re looking for radio that is fresh, different, surprising, accessible and local then look no further than 93.7 Express FM.
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Feature: iPhone Applications
Must Have
iPhone applications Here at Think Local we appreciate the impact that smart phones such as the iPhone have had on everyday life. We have chosen 15 applications that we think are the best in their field at little or no cost. From the obscure to the critically acclaimed, from the functional to the childishly fun, these are 15 applications that we feel no good iPhone can do without.
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Navfree UK and ROI | Free A totally free and really rather good satellite navigation system for the UK and Republic of Ireland. With other SatNav applications costing upwards of £25 we were amazed with how good and stable this application was. Any early glitches seem to have been fixed by recent updates, meaning its more established competition should be very, very worried.
WhatsApp Messenger | 59p WhatsApp Messenger offers a superb way to keep in touch with your friends whilst on the move for free. Once you have stumped up the initial fee of 59p, you are then free to send unlimited messages, videos and images for absolutely nothing to others with the application installed. Perfect for messaging friends abroad and avoiding a huge phone bill on your return.
Jamie Oliver 20 min meals | £4.99 Jamie Oliver manages to help us in the kitchen without being patronising or arrogant. Over 60 recipes available given to you step by step with both text and visual aids, it takes the fuss out of cooking. From basic instructions on how to cook the perfect steak to more complicated and intricate dishes, all levels of cooking ability are catered for and with the ability to add all the ingredients from several dishes to one shopping list, cooking can be easy, fast and most importantly tasty.
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Angry Birds | 59p A fantastically addictive game that just keeps getting better. Since the release of the original game there have been regular updates of levels and content. One of the most addictive games available for the iPhone, we suggest caution whilst playing this game on public transport as several stops may be missed.
Twitter | Free What more can be said about the new social networking site that is taking over the world? As a popular haunt for bickering celebrities and those with controversial opinions, it is never short of entertainment value as well as giving you the opportunity to let the world know exactly what you’re thinking.
The Guardian | £2.39 Known for its huge online readership, the Guardian application offers most if not all of its print content in one, easily navigable place. Whilst not the cheapest news application available, we feel with its regular updates, fixes to its offline viewing options, and regular columnists, that it is the best.
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www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
Feature: iPhone Applications
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Auditorium | Free Ever fancied being a composer and relaxing at the same time? If playing a game whilst pulling your hair out isn’t your cup of tea then this game will be for you. The aim is simply to create a soothing harmony using the incredibly beautiful visuals on offer. As their product tag line goes ‘Tranquil yet tantalizing, puzzling but peaceful. Play it, and you’ll understand’. We couldn’t agree more.
Shazam | Free How many times have you heard a song whilst out and just can’t think of its name, the artist or even what album it hails from? With Shazam simply hold your iPhone in the direction of the music and have all the answers in a matter of seconds. Also included are options to buy and download the songs straight into your itunes.
10 Instagram | Free The best photo sharing and editing application on the planet as far as we are concerned here at think local. A travelers dream, photos can be posted for all to see and an exact location noted, making those back home as jealous as possible. If that isn’t enough you can select a number of photo filters that turn your shabby picture into a full-blown masterpiece.
13 MouthOff | 59p Very simple, very childish, very fun. Simply hold the iPhone in front of your mouth and talk, shout, laugh or scream. In fact just do whatever you like. With over 49 cartoon mouths to choose from you’re guaranteed to laugh and the kids will use it so much you should probably remember your charger.
www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
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OpenTable | Free OpenTable offers an instant application for making restaurant reservations. Whilst it sounds simple we all know what a hassle it can be to find the right restaurant in the right place at the right time. In a few seconds you can book your favourite eatery, tell them your party size and even pick the table you sit at. Its all made incredibly easy and we approve.
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Zoopla | Free If you’re in the hunt for a property then this application from the UK’s most comprehensive property website will help you all the way. You can search all over the UK for the right property for you. Not only will you be able to see the exact location of a chosen property but Zoopla boasts the ability to create an instant value estimate for all 27 million homes in the UK, just in case like us, you’re feeling extra nosey.
Redlazer | Free There is nothing worse than feeling ripped off. Redlazer offers you the ability to scan the barcode of any item imaginable whilst out shopping and find a better local or online price. So before you spend a fortune on your Christmas shopping why not try this handy application out for size.
Drinkspiration by Absolut | Free After reading all this you’re probably going to feel like you could do with a sit down and a stiff drink. Luckily we even have this covered. Absolut Vodka has developed an application that helps you create some of the world’s most delicious alcoholic beverages. With over 400 drinks based on vodka, gin, rum, brandy, whisky and tequila you will never get bored even if you cant stand up afterwards.
Runkeeper | Free As the new-year approaches, many of us will make a vow to hit the road and get into shape. Runkeeper helps you get in shape and keeps the weight off your mind with its zero calorie price tag. Using the GPS technology built into your iPhone you can plan routes, how far you want to go and keep track of your times.
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WIN A PAMPER DAY FOR TWO at Meon Valley, A Marriott Hotel & Country Club
and much much more... This Christmas we are giving away some fantastic prizes. To enter our free prize draw e-mail your name and contact details to daniela.iorgu@marriotthotels.com or send a postcard to Meon Valley, A Marriott Hotel & Country Club, Sandy Lane, Shedfield, Southampton, SO32 2HQ. YOU COULD WIN... First prize - Executive Pamper Day for two with a value of £220. The pamper day includes an aromatherapy face, back and scalp treatment and executive manicure or pedicure, as well as a light lunch in our Zest Café and full use of our leisure facilities. Second prize - 2x7 Day Leisure Passes with a value of £140. Third prize - 2x1 Day VIP Leisure Passes with a value of £20, available to the first 50 entrants. Closing date for the prize draw is 15th December 2010, winners will be notified in writing by 20th December 2010. Terms and conditions apply.
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Feature: Local Business
A local business Taylor made for success From selling laptops in a bedroom office to a nationally respected IT service organisation, Taylor Made have shown how an ambitious business plan can succeed.
www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
Many of you will be familiar with the sight of Taylor Made’s branded cars driving around our towns, business parks and along the M27. What you may not be aware of is just how successful the company has been, and how after 16 years in business, the entrepreneur at the helm has still managed to maintain the same core values, ethos and ethics that have made Taylor Made a major player in their industry, operating locally but recognised and admired nationally. Taylor Made Computer Solutions is an exciting and growing specialist IT services company, based in purpose built offices at the Cams Hall Estate in Fareham. The business was founded in 1994 by Managing Director, Nigel Taylor.
Humble Beginnings Nigel was educated at Bishop Wordsworth Grammar School in Salisbury. After completing A-levels he left further education to begin life in commerce. He joined Tandy Retail Operation in 1984 and soon found his flair for business. He became a Store Manager in 1985 and then onto a Group Manager by 1987. In 1989, after successfully running the first Tandy Computer Centre in Portsmouth, he was persuaded to join local IT reseller Digital Services in Cosham. After 4 years of working within the Business Development Section he then moved to work for an Import Services Company in Eastleigh. It became apparent that Nigel soon missed the cut and thrust of working
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Feature: Local Business
Caption: The Taylor Made team
with local businesses, helping them with IT services and in 1994 established an IT service company of his own after being asked by Warings the builders to assist them with purchasing a laptop. Working from a put together office within his bedroom, Nigel responded to this request by simply using his credit card to make his first purchase. Through fulfilling his customer requirements - Taylor Made Computer Solutions was born. Invest in your staff Over the last 16 years Taylor Made has grown steadily and consistently, establishing itself as one of the South Coast’s premier IT services organisations. The company now has 5 directors including Nigel’s wife and Financial Director, Alison Taylor –they now employ over 100 staff and provide professional IT services for over 300 customers, virtually all within the Solent region. Taylor Made’s dedication to staff and customers has been fundamental to the company’s success over the years. Nigel Taylor has always believed in happiness in the workplace. If he is happy, so are the rest of the Taylor Made team. This extends to singing in the corridor and general David Brent-isms! Relationships are a large part of the business, both internally and externally. Nigel, his wife Aly and other senior staff have glass offices in an open plan, purpose
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Caption: A young, dashing, Nigel Taylor
“Over the last 16 years Taylor Made has grown steadily and consistently, establishing itself as one of the South Coast’s premier IT services...” built building in Cams, and operate an ‘open door’ policy with their staff. The openness of the operation actively encourages staff to communicate - one of the ways they ensure they are delivering what their customers want, and to a high standard. Many visitors to Taylor Made often comment on the positive atmosphere in the office. Not only does Nigel take time out of his diary to spend time mentoring and motivating his staff, the company also organises a number of different team building events throughout the year. These include games nights, sporting events and day trips to the Isle of Wight. In 2008 Taylor Made achieved 8th Place in The Sunday Times Top 100 ‘Best small companies to work for’, and attained
the highest accolade of Best Companies 3 stars award, denoting ‘extraordinary performance’. Since then the company has been further recognised for commitment to staff when they were one of the first companies in the UK to be awarded Investors in People Gold Standard in 2009, and more recently invited to become one of only 30 ‘Investors in People Champions’. The extra mile The support model Taylor Made have in place for their customers is proactive and pre-emptive, with the aim to assist local businesses with planning, building, maintaining and developing every aspect of their IT infrastructure. The company’s main focus is on strategic planning. Through an ABC process, Taylor Made benchmark client’s IT whilst gaining an in depth knowledge of their business - then design, source and install the most appropriate IT solution to align with the business needs. To enable their customers to make the most of their IT investments, Taylor Made Training Solutions was established in 2004. This side of the business provides technical IT and applications based training services for businesses and individuals, as well as consultancy led training to develop people and performance. Again, what has made Taylor Made Training Solutions successful is the focus to deliver high quality bespoke training that meets the needs of the customer.
www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
Feature: Local Business
Business Tips
from those who know. Simon Browning
Ray Khan
SSB Consulting
Khan Morris Accountants (khanmorris.co.uk)
Network Using and growing your business network is one of the most cost effective ways to increase you sales leads. I’m not talking about meeting 100 people you don’t know for breakfast but through increasing your trusted network of clients and business contacts. Ask a close client for a referral, pick up the phone to an old work contact, use free online business to business sites such as linkedin.
Create a vision Before you get lost in the details, take a step back. Outline a clear vision and a coherent set of values for your company. Develop a mission statement and use it to define short-term goals and priorities. Once you have a clear road map for your business, you can plan your journey with more confidence.
Offer more There’s two ways to increase your sales. Get more customers and sell more of your product or service to your current customers. You’ve earnt the trust of loyal customers by providing a great service and expertise. Therefore your existing clients will be very interested in add ons to your service, and the best bit is, if you don’t know what to sell them - ask them! Social media There’s no doubting that news seems to travel faster every day. Whilst I don’t recommend you become a full time blogger, twitterer or facebook fiend there is plenty you can do to gain some free exposure. Help your customers / clients save money / make money Think about what would interest you right now in your business. If someone said they could either make you money or save you money would you be more likely to be a listener or reader to that approach? The same is true of your customers or clients. When pitching, marketing or advertising these will be key themes.
Richard Waldron ifind media (ifindmedia.co.uk) Take advantage of free online services There are lots of ways to help promote your business online. Make sure your business is registered with Google Places (places.google.com), spend some time researching online directories, many offer a free submission and get your company listed. Track your marketing Gone are the days of placing an advert and guessing its success, you can measure the success of your online/offline marketing by checking your visitor statistics. A great way to track your offline success is to include a specific web address, you’ll then be able to work out how many extra visitors checked out your website following your latest campaign. Invest in a professional Website Your online presence is fast becoming your most important asset when it comes to winning new business. Take some time and fully review how well you are represented online - then seek professional help.
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Don’t forget what makes you unique Learn from your competitors’ strengths, but also learn how to spot their weaknesses and use them to improve your own business plan. Don’t ignore your customers This may sound obvious, but too many entrepreneurs assume they know exactly what their customers need without bothering to ask. Take the time to learn about your customers, and build your business plan around their needs and desires. A budget isn’t the same thing as a plan You can’t create a solid business plan without a budget and a financial forecast. But a budget should be the product of all the other elements in your plan. If you don’t have a clear picture of your industry, customers, competitors, and market conditions before you develop a budget, your numbers aren’t likely to reflect reality. Always give people more than they expect to get Its not rocket science – repeat sales are easier to make if customers go away happy.
Nigel Taylor Taylor Made (tmcs.co.uk) Never give up Don’t abandon hope, it will get better…eventually Hang in there Last man standing…make changes for survival Safety first Be conservative, reduce risks, but don’t stand still Take care of your own Look after your people, invest in them and they will invest in you Quality not quantity Remember your own proposition when making purchases – Buy on best value, not on best price
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Feature: The Old House Hotel
The Old House Hotel in Wickham A fine hotel and restaurant based in the village of Wickham, a warm and welcoming environment serving delicious food The Old House Hotel & Restaurant sits in the idyllic village square of Wickham, surrounded by the rolling hills of the Meon Valley. The hotel itself is a Grade II listed building and has been awarded 3 AA stars. Erected in 1707 the building has kept many of its original features that add to the unique ambience. All visitors will be welcomed by the relaxed and informal atmosphere that the Old House is so well known for. Whilst 12 luxurious guest rooms with en suite facilities are available there is also a beautifully appointed 3-bedroom cottage. Both guests and non-residents are welcome to visit the exceptional fine dining restaurant.
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The restaurant, that can cater for over 60 guests boasts AA double rosette status and prides itself on its classical British Cuisine with a contemporary influence. The menu, using local, fresh and seasonal produce is fully a la carte whilst breakfast and Sunday menus are also available. The Old House is the ideal venue for all occasions, licensed to hold civil weddings and with superb conference facilities. Lunch, Monday – Sunday 12-2.30pm Dinner, Monday – Saturday 7-9.30pm Lunch Menu du Jour 2/3 courses £12.95/£17.95 incl. Carafe of house wine & coffee. Mon–Sat 12-2.30pm
“...All visitors will be welcomed by the relaxed and informal atmosphere that the Old House is so well known for...”
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Feature: The Old House Hotel
20%
DISCOUNT on all food & drink When booking, quote “think local” Subject to availability
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www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
Feature: The Old House Hotel
Let’s get cooking In simple steps, learn how to make a delicious Shitake Mushroom Ravioli with Parsnip Foam Ingredients 95g Plain Flour 2 Eggs 2 Shallots – finely diced 400g Shitake Mushroom – finely diced Garlic – crushed Parsnip Milk Salt & Pepper
To Make Pasta 1. Mix together 95g of Plain flour with 1 egg until dough is formed on a whisk attachment. 2. Roll ½ dough out and cut into circles 5 inches in diameter. 3. Roll ½ dough out and cut into circles 3 inches in diameter.
To Cook 1. Bring pan of slightly salted water to boil. 2. Cook pasta for 3 – 5 minutes until pasta is cooked and mushrooms warmed through To Make Parsnip Foam 1. Peel and dice parsnip. 2. Cook in milk to create puree.
To Make Duxelle 1. Sweat the shallots, mushrooms and garlic in a pan until soft and pliable. (No moisture should be left) 2. Place Duxelle on small pasta circle. Egg wash exposed pasta. 3. Place large pasta circle on top of Duxelle and mould. Pressing hard on the pasta that is touching. 4. Crimp top edges
3. Use milk to create thin consistency. 4. Do not boil milk. Blitz with stick blender to create bubbles. 5. Serve on a bed of Confit Cabbage or Pickled Cucumber depending on preferences. There you go, a simple, great looking, fantastic tasting ravioli. Thanks to the Old House Hotel in Wickham for the recipe.
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Feature: Winter Fashion
Credit: All images courtesy of Arcadia Group
Winter Style Made Easy Fashion’s favourite time of year is just around the corner, a time when we can revel in layers and embrace the seasons comforting woolly knits. Kat Nicholls outlines the top five fashion trends this coming winter 24 think local
This winter fashion truly has every corner covered, ready to encompass every woman’s style in five easy trends. So whether you’re desperate for layers of knitwear or craving modern day simplicity, read on for our top tips on how to work the trends, how to style them and most importantly, where to buy them. This season has seen high street names truly excel as they interpret catwalk looks at accessible prices. These well known brands are picking up key trends and key pieces to allow the public get a taste of high-end fashion. So if the idea of following fashion or trends has made you nervous in the past, we hope our simple how-to guide will make shopping that little bit easier this winter.
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Feature: Winter Fashion
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Ladylike This trend has seen Mad Men inspired styling all over the catwalks, with Prada and Louis Vuiton paving the way. Expect full circle skirts and 50’s style prom dresses designed to enhance every gorgeous curve. This look is perfect for all those Christmas parties where you can embrace your feminine side with romantic colours and full skirts. How to Style Start with either a great prom dress or a cute top and skirt combo, then simply throw over a pastel cardigan and accessorise with some vintage pearls and you’ve got the look down. If you want to go even further with this trend add a kitsch headband and mid-height kitten heels for the complete ladylike look!
Where to Buy Dorothy Perkins, (www.dorothyperkins.com) Miss Selfridge (www.missselfridge.com) have all got great Ladylike pieces in stock, look out for their dress collections especially.
Credit: All images courtesy of Arcadia Group
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Minimalism
Embracing clean lines and sleek silhouettes, fashion is giving a nod to the 90’s minimalism movement this season. Celine did it first on the catwalks, showing elegance in a new light putting a contemporary twist on purism. Look out for simple white shirts and sleek tailoring in neutral colours. Keep embellishment and accessories to a minimum and allow the clothes to speak for themselves. A key colour to keep in mind with this trend is Camel - it’s looking to be one of the biggest colour trends of the season. How to Style The whole idea behind this trend is simplicity, so keep styling to a minimum. Tailored trousers look great when they stop just above the ankle showing bare skin and a flat shoe, Simply accessorise with brogues or on-trend loafers for a modern look.
Where to Buy Top Shop (www.topshop.com) Gap (www.gap.com) and Next (www.next.co.uk) remain the best high street names for minimalism, look out for their basic tee’s and chic tailoring. Credit: All images courtesy of Arcadia Group
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Feature: Winter Fashion
“Start with either a great prom dress or a cute top and skirt combo, then simply throw over a pastel cardigan and accessorise with some vintage pearls and you’ve got the look down”
Credit: All images courtesy of Arcadia Group
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Feature: Winter Fashion
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The Great Outdoors One of the season’s biggest trends, the outdoors-y heritage look is set to be huge after D & G and Burberry rocked the look on the catwalk earlier this year. Think traditional tweeds, plaids and corduroy mixing with alpine knits, shearling and faux-fur. Outerwear is key so look out for the popular aviator jacket and thick woollen capes for an on-trend look. Shearling is making its way into our wardrobes in a big way so expect to see it on shoes and bags as well as all over your clothes. Accessories are important for this trend so get your hands on some chunky woollen scarves, mittens and furry hunting hats to complete the look. How to Style This look is just begging for layers so feel free to pile on the knits and accessorise with furry hats, snow boots and leather satchels. Don’t be afraid to clash prints and colour, the more going on the better! Bed head hair and a berry stained lip colour will finish off this look perfectly.
Where to Buy Topshop (www.topshop.com) New Look (www.newlook.com) and H&M (www.hm.com) have covered this trend brilliantly with stacks of knitwear, shearling and fur to keep you cosy this season. Look out for their footwear departments too, these brands are re-creating the catwalk looks amazingly this season. Credit: All images courtesy of Arcadia Group
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Lace
From angelic white to Gothic black, lace is back in a big way this Winter, which comes as no surprise after the likes of Valentino and Alexander Wang showcased the look on the catwalk. Try to keep this trend down to just one piece, lace dresses and tops remain the easiest ways to do this without going OTT. With the intricate detailing within the lace it’s best to keep accessories down to a minimum to ensure its your lace that’s getting all the attention. How to Style Keep your lace look simple, pair a long sleeved lace dress with bare legs and statement heels. Keep hair undone and make-up natural for a chic nonchalant look. With jewellery go for something understated, maybe a pair of diamond studs or a long silver pendant to add some sleek finishing touches.
Where to Buy
Credit: All images courtesy of Arcadia Group
www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
TopShop (www.topshop.com) and Dorothy Perkins (www.dorothyperkins.com) are doing some beautiful lace pieces at the moment, look out for their puff sleeve dresses and quirky lace blazers.
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Feature: Winter Fashion
Credit: All images courtesy of Arcadia Group
Credit: All images courtesy of Arcadia Group
Military
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Gold buttons and olive green galore, Military is making its way back into our hearts this winter with jackets and coats taking centre stage. Look out for button detailing on coats and boots which will give any outfit some edge. If you don’t want to go all the way with the soldier style, military style caps and broaches are easy ways to incorporate this trend. Colours are key with this trend, so look out for army greens, khaki and royal blues in all your pieces. How to Style With this look you can either keep a regimented straight laced feel with a military inspired coat, boots and cap all working in sync, or you can add touches of the trend to another look. For example if you’re already rocking the Outdoors trend with alpine knits and hunting hats, just add a pair of buckled boots or a military cape for a taste of military. How you wear it is truly up to you, this trend knows no bounds!
Where to Buy TopShop (www.topshop.com) and River Island have created this look best, with military style coats and aviator trapper hats prevailing. Credit: All images courtesy of Arcadia Group
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www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
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Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 5pm Sunday & Bank Holiday 11am – 4pm. Monday – Closed
Located in the picturesque village of Wickham, Chesapeake Mill offers you a unique shopping experience. Take the afternoon to find all of your Christmas gifts under one roof. The mill contains 35 separate traders who offer a wide range of merchandise, including antiques, home furnishings, garden accessories, jewellery, clothes, gifts, toys and collectables. You may also treat yourself to a light snack or cream tea in the mills tearoom, or pamper yourself in the nail bar and beauty room.
Bridge Street, Wickham Hampshire, PO17 5JH T. 01329 834 078 F. 01329 834 888 E. info@chesapeakemill.co.uk
www.chesapeakemill.co.uk Mill Ad 210x297 AW.indd 1
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Contact us for expert advice and get the best value for your Australian Adventure.
Your Local Travel Experts
City and Reef – iconic Australia 14 nights from £1439pp
*Includes all flights London - Sydney - Cairns - London *5 nights’ accommodation at 3.5* Quality Hotel Cambridge, Sydney *4 nights’ accommodation at 3* Queens Court, Cairns *5 nights’ accommodation at 3.5* Port Douglas Retreat, Port Douglas *Terms & Conditions All prices quoted are inclusive of taxes, fees and other charges unless stated otherwise. Valid for travel 16 April – 20 June 2011. Prices correct at 19 November 2010 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Amounts payable to third parties not included. Offers are subject to availability. Please check all prices, availability and other information with your travel consultant before booking. All prices are ‘from’ prices, per person, based on two adults sharing. Qantas Holidays general booking conditions apply, see www.qantasholidays.co.uk
Telephone: 01489 579975 Email: holidays@amitytravel.co.uk Web: www.amitytravel.co.uk 4 Manor Court, Barnes Wallis Road, Segensworth East, Fareham, PO15 5TH
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Feature: Eveyone Active
Everyone Active Fareham We work up a sweat with Fareham’s Everyone Active, and learn how the recent £300,000 investment has improved the centre for all members New years resolutions are so very easy to make and so very hard to keep. Its reasonable to say that many New Years resolutions involve the gym in one way or another, whether its to lose a few pounds from Christmas indulgences or just to get in shape for the upcoming year. However, the thought of endlessly sitting on an exercise bike or treadmill, churning out the miles, is something that very few of us look forward to, and is often the reason why in the end our gym membership goes to waste. We visited Fareham Leisure Centre to see how Everyone Active in partnership with
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Fareham Borough Council have worked to improve the facilities, making going to gym a fun and interactive experience that will have you coming back week after week. In total over £300,000 has been spent completely renovating the gym. State of the art fitness machines have been fitted with no expense spared including cross trainers, exercise bikes, treadmills and Platform performers. Individual TV monitors and iPod docks have been fitted, making sure you’re fully entertained while burning off the calories. Substantial lengths have been gone to in order to improve the interactivity of
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Feature: Everyone Active
Top 3 Nutrition tips
“In total over £300,000 has been spent completely renovating the gym. State of the art fitness machines have been fitted with no expense spared...” the gym. Top of the range Trickster bikes have been installed, combining innovations in fitness with gaming technology; they allow an indoor exercise bike to simulate outdoor cycling, transporting you out of the gym and into the great outdoors. A Freedom Climber, one of only a handful in the UK, enables you to continually climb
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as you would a climbing wall whilst never over a few feet from the ground meaning no ropes, no harnesses and no falling from dangerous heights. Finally, a reaction trainer, often used by elite athletes, offers an alternative to the more traditional full body workout whilst improving reactions. In January the Everybody Active School of Dance will open its doors. With a brand new studio and fully qualified instructors offering classes in tap, jazz, ballet and street dance there should be something to suit everybody, even if like me you have two left feet. Everybody Active also offers a wide range of activities including a 25m swimming pool and squash courts. If you feel that you might need some help in devising a routine or what best areas to work on for you, personal trainers are always available to help you in any way possible. With membership from £19 going to the gym might be one New Years resolution you can easily keep.
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Fill up on this seasons vegetables, they are packed full of vitamins and minerals minus the empty calories. They go great either in warming winter soups or on your roast dinner.
Save calories from your favourite dinners by making small changes to how you cook them. Remove the skin from your meat which is full of saturated fat, dry roast your potatoes and season with herbs and fill half your plate up with steamed vegetables. A balanced, filling nutritional meal.
The party season is a great time for having a couple of drinks but alcohol can also lead to weight gain. During the party season avoid alcopops which are full or refined sugar, beer and lager which are all full of empty calories. Sparkling wine or spirits with low calorie mixers are a great option. But always remember to be sensible when drinking, drink water in between each drink and rehydrate.
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What’s new at Fareham Leisure Centre…. NEW Equipment includes... • Hi-tech, interactive, gym machines with personal TV screen and iPod connection • Trixter Bikes • Reaction Trainers This winter Fareham Leisure Centre will be the first choice for everyone to get active. Fareham Borough Council in partnership with Everyone Active has invested over £300,000 making major improvements centre wide. Loads of new fitness machines, with all the latest technology - individual TV monitors and iPod docking stations, will mean activity is more motivating and entertaining.
Fareham Leisure Centre 01329 233652
talk to the swimming experts this CHRISTMAS NEW Facilities includes... • Brand new group exercise studio offering Pilates Reformers classes & Everyone Active School of Dance • Climb Zone - a totally new indoor rotating climb experience With the investment from Sport & Leisure Management, Everyone Active can offer over 90 group exercise classes each week. In the new studio we’re introducing advanced pilates with the brilliant new Reformer machines, which help you exercise every part of the body in order to attain great health. New Everyone Active School offers a range of new type of class for kids from 4-16 years. Including Ballet, Modern, tap,Jazz and Street Dancing The all new Freedom CIimber at Fareham’s new Climb Zone is an innovative, rotating, non-motorised, climbing wall. It provides continuous, vigorous, fun climbing in a safe, harness-free environment. For you and your kids’ reach - try it and get hooked!
Present this advert for a FREE trial, or call quoting EveryoneActive.
SLM manages this facility in partnership with Fareham Borough Council. *Terms apply
WWW.EVERYONEACTIVE.COM
Feel better for it
Digital platform coming soon
Local offers / News / Events
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Feature: Cool ideas for kids
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Are the Kids stuck for ideas for their Christmas list this year? See some inspiring ideas for Santa’s elves to conjure up
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Ah Christmas, the season of goodwill, peace on earth and parents fighting in the aisles over the season’s top toy sellers. Every year there’s a festive frenzy over the most sought-after children’s stocking fillers. But with the help of our round-up of perfect pressies you can be one step ahead of the masses this year. If you’re buying for babies, head straight to Mamas and Papas for some really adorable Christmas clothes (before they’re too old to object!) - stripy Santa outfit, (£14). Toddlers, meanwhile, will love this retro Fisher Price phone from Woolworths (£6). With older kids, it’s worth swotting up on the top ten toy lists. Buzz Lightyear is in demand again this year. Pick up this talking version from Debenhams (£40). This alien dressing gown from Matalan (£10) is another out-of-thisworld idea for Toy Story 3 fans. Other boy’s toys worth snapping up include these crocodile slippers (Brantano £8), or this Zingzillas Big Zing guitar toy (ebay.co.uk, was £23 now £20). Top
of the girls’ list are all things Sylvanian. Littlewoods.com has this mustbuy hotel. Barbie’s back in fashion too with this funky sports bag at Woolworths (£10). Or go super girlie with a pink teaset from Monsoon and a pink First Bike from Branching Out at John Crane (£53). For fashionistas in the making, there are plenty of hot buys on the high street. Try Next for funky winterwear, M&Co for some adorable little girls’‚ party frocks - or Matalan for that teenage belle of the ball (ruffle dress, £16). Finally, the best bit about Christmas has to be the full family get-together. Make the most of it by splashing out on some games for kids of all ages. Marks & Spencers’ great table football set will burn off some of that chocolate-fuelled energy. But to be truly down with the kids this Christmas, you can’t go wrong with this Twilight board game from Debenhams, which is priced at £20. Even Santa couldn’t do better.
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Feature: Cool ideas for kids
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Main image: Next
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Matalan: Special tiered dress, £16
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Debenhams: Talking Jet Pack Buzz Lightyear, £40
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Woolworths.co.uk: Fisher Price Chatter Telephone, £6
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Littlewoods.com: Sylvanian Regency hotel, £120
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Brantano: Slipper club crocodile, £8
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Ebay Fashion Outlet: Zingzillas Big Zing guitar, £20
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John Crane Ltd: Pink first bike, £53
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Matalan: Alien robe, from £10
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Monsoon: Tea set, £15
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Debenhams: Twilight Eclipse board game, £20
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Woolworths.co.uk: Barbie sports bag, £10
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Feature: Santa’s little helper
Santa’s
little helper
Stuck for inspiration choosing a gift for Norman in accounts? You won’t go far wrong with these top Secret Santa ideas… Secret Santa. A phrase that can strike fear into the heart of the most hardened shopper. Buying presents for your friends and relatives is one thing, but choosing a gift for a randomly allocated colleague can be tiresome, especially when given a price limit. We’re here to relieve your pain. Look on it as our gift to you this Christmas. Here’s our list of what to buy, with an idea for everyone in the office, and nothing costs more than a tenner. For the office joker get the Football Toilet Trainer (£10) from Jacamo. It’s daft AND useful. A bit like him then. Jack Daniels fudge (£5) in butch packaging should appeal to the bloke who always orders a whiskey with his beer after work, while sci-fi geeks will be thrilled with a Dr Who keyring (£4). The grown-ups in the office will appreciate a What Do You Know About Wine? desk calendar (£9.99), and as it’s
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from the British Heart Foundation you’ll be giving a bit to charity too. The Herb Growing Set (£6.97) from Wilkinson will prove popular with the green-fingered workers. Fashion-conscious babes will love Marks & Spencer’s metallic nail varnish set (£5) and a sequin lip gloss (£6) from BHS, while the cheeky ones will have a giggle at the Christmas Cracker pants (£8) from Ann Summers. The more sophisticated woman will be won over with anything from White Stuff – we particularly love the Victorian rose socks (£9.95). Smellies are an easy gift to give. Trevor Sorbie has a Cleanse and Refresh Duo (£6) aimed at the male market, and pretty sets from the Body Shop are a winner too – we think its Satsuma set (£10) is particularly appropriate for Christmas. And then there are the slightly bonkers presents that anyone will find amusing:
Above: BHS. Sequin stocking £12, jewel cracker £15 for 6, giant lollipop £5, chocolate coin mix £1.25, sequin cushion £15, whirl lollipop £1.50, egg chair £729.
“Secret Santa ideas to ensure you’ll please even the fussiest colleague. Now you can relax and enjoy the office party.” a pair of wind-up meerkats (£8) from Debenhams; Pac-Man wind-up racers (£10) from Matalan; and crazy cat tights (£8.95) from House of Bath. There you have it, enough Secret Santa ideas to ensure you’ll please even the fussiest colleague. Now you can relax and enjoy the office party.
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Feature: Santa’s little helper
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BHS: Sequin lip gloss set, £6
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Matalan: Pacman wind up racers, £10
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Marks & Spencer: Essential Colours mini nail colour collection in metallic, £5
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House of Bath: Cat tights, £8.95
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BHS: Jack Daniels fudge box, £5
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Debenhams: Wind-up meerkats, £8 for two.
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The Body Shop: Satsuma set, £10
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Debenhams: Dr Who Keyring, £4
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Ann Summers: Christmas cracker briefs, £8
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British Heart Foundation: What Do You Know About Wine? desk calendar, £9.99
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Trevor Sorbie: Mg Cleanse & Refresh Duo £6
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Wilkinson: Herb growing set, enamel tins, £6.97
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Jacamo: Football toilet trainers £10
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Feature: Live & Unsigned
Live and unsigned Local Auditions Win over £100,000 in prizes and the opportunity to play live at the O2 Arena in London. Auditions for the UK’s biggest unsigned music competition are about to begin... With over £100, 000 in prizes and the chance to play at the 02 in London, Live and Unsigned is set to attract thousands of unsigned musicians when auditions across the UK begin in January including Portsmouth Guildhall which is being held on Sunday February 27th. The National competition has just announced another amazing main prize for the winner comprising of a world tour across four continents! Competing acts will have the chance to play at a leading music venue in Dublin as well as playing at Tour Music Fest in Rome’s Piper Club where artists like David Bowie, The Beatles and Pink Floyd have all performed. I Rock, Asia’s biggest Rock festival, will be awarding an act with a slot on their main stage and entrants will also have the opportunity to play in Australia at The National Theatre, Melbourne and perform in the US – a once in a lifetime opportunity for any aspiring musician. Live and Unsigned is the UK’s biggest unsigned music
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competition for original artists and it’s open to all genres. So whether you’re into Pop, RnB, Punk, Indie, Alternative, Rock or Acoustic, the competition includes everything. Each year the competition prize pool gets bigger and better as acts take to the stage and battle it out for equipment, festival slots, clothing, studio time and genre specific master classes. Other prizes up for grabs include a UK tour with up to 100 dates, a selection of Marshall amps, extensive coverage on MUZU TV and You Tube and a recording contract with Future Music, with up to £50,000 investment. All acts in the competition are auditioned live which is what makes Live and Unsigned so unique, there are no demos or submissions. Those who make it through the audition stage will get to perform to industry judges, A&R associates and celebrity guests in some of the UK’s most prestigious venues. Those who make it to the Grand Final will get to share the stage with some of the UK’s best musicians at the Live and Unsigned Festival at the 02 in London. The competition’s aim is to find potential recording artists. Over 10,000 acts entered the competition last year and the Grand
“Live and Unsigned is the UK’s biggest unsigned music competition for original artists and it’s open to all genres” Final saw the cream of the UK’s unsigned talent showcase their music in front of thousands of audience members and the judging panel which included Slade’s legendary front man Noddy Holder, Radio 1’s Annie Nightingale, Kerrang’s Alex Baker and RnB star Shola Ama. Auditions begin again in January 2011. Acts are now being urged to enter as places are in high demand and auditions are limited for what will be a great platform for any act or band to showcase their music. For information on how to secure your live audition for 2011 go to www.LiveandUnsigned.uk.com and register today.
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Feature: Live & Unsigned
Photo: Courtesy of Brynja Maughan
He’s been the front man of one of the most successful rock and roll bands in the UK, has toured all over the world to sell out gigs and he’s penned one of the most recognised Christmas anthems ever. Noddy Holder, who fronted the legendary Slade, talks to us about his time on the Live and Unsigned judging panel and what he thinks makes a band successful. As A Judge, What Do You Think Of Live and Unsigned? “I think it’s useful for bands, solo artists and song writers to join a competition like Live and Unsigned because it gives acts an outlet that they won’t get anywhere else. It’s good exposure - the bigger the following the more potential you have to sell more albums.” What makes an act stand out? Originality and the ability to handle an audience. I look for something that’s not been done before. I think image is so important – all the big bands like The Beatles and The Who all had big images to go with their music. When I was in Slade we placed huge importance on our image.
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I think it’s great if artists are influenced by what’s gone before, but I don’t want to see any copies. Music can’t stand still, it’s got to be constantly moving and I’ll be looking for new twists and new ideas. I also think it’s so important to get live gigging experience, because interacting with your audience is crucial. How do you think musicians can crack the industry today? There is a real emergence of bands making it through the internet and sites like MySpace. I think it is difficult today because when I was in a band record companies were signing new acts all the time. But today less and less acts are getting signed. I am a huge believer in live gigging – I know it’s difficult financially for bands to do, but I really believe it’s the way to build a fan base. Build up that hardcore fan following in gigs, and they will be the ones that support you and buy your records. I think a lot of acts believe it happens over night – it doesn’t. Slade got together in 1966 and it wasn’t until 1971 that we had a hit record. It’s a real hard slog and it’s about perseverance.
“I look for something that’s not been done before. I think image is so important”
Local Auditions Sunday 27th February Portsmouth Guildhall, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth PO1 2AB.
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WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO SEE TREASURE ISLAND
RSPCA SOLENT BRANCH STUBBINGTON ARK
Telephone 01329 667541 CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES: Christmas Eve: 10am-2pm Christmas Day: CLOSED Boxing Day: CLOSED New Year’s Eve: 10am-2pm New Year’s Day: CLOSED
We are giving away 3 pairs of tickets to see Treasure Island at the New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth on Friday 24th December at 2.30pm.
What a great way to spend your Christmas Eve. For your chance to win, simply e-mail us your name and contact details to hello@letsthinklocal.co.uk by 12th December 2010. Winners will be notified soon after. Treasure Island is showing at the New Theatre Royal from 8th December 1st January. If you’re not a lucky winner why not book your tickets for this Christmas family musical by calling the box office on 023 9264 9000.
174-176 Ranvilles Lane Fareham Hants PO14 3EZ
www.newtheatreroyal.com
WIN
A Day Trip to London
Tel: 023 92359168 Fax: 023 9236 1253 Email: visiontravels@aol.com 3A Spur Road, Cosham, Portsmouth, PO6 3DY. Office hours: 8am-5pm Monday to Friday and 8am-11am Saturday
for 2 people
PHONE OR EMAIL QUOTING REF: ALT001
• London Shows • Markets • Garden Centres • Theme Parks • Other Local Attraction
A Selection of short breaks
• Schools • Clubs • Private • Corporate
www.visiontravel.co.uk
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Events: December
Events Christmas
Theatre
Gigs & concerts Others
Festive Wonderland at Gunwharf Quays Featuring the regions largest open air ice rink with state of the art artificial ice. To get us into the Festive spirit, Festive Wonderland will feature Christmas lights, mulled wine, hot drinks and food, Christmas art and craft activities.
The Point’s Youth Theatre presents A Christmas Carol The Point’s Youth Theatre presents this spectacular production of the classic yuletide tale with storytelling, songs and dance that will leave the whole family full of Christmas cheer.
Pixie Lott Since the release of her first single ‘Mama Do’ in June 2009, she has received three Brit nominations, sold 2 million singles, two of which were #1s, had three #1 airplay hits and is approaching 1 million albums sold globally. She’s quickly approaching Double Platinum in the UK.
Where: Gunwharf Quays. Portsmouth When: 28th of November 2010 – 3rd of January 2011 Price: Ice Rink, Adults £4 Children (under 18, students, concessions) £2. Christmas at Marwell Step through our enchanted wardrobe into the letter writing room where we’ll help you compose your letter to Santa. We’ll then invite you into Mrs Claus’ library for storytelling and entertainment before calling your name to meet Santa. Share a few moments with the big man himself and receive a special gift before soaking up the atmosphere of our Christmas tavern in the Tudor Rose. Where: Marwell Wildlife When: 26th of November – 24th of December 2010 Alton Yuletide Festival With many new entertainers, children’s rides, Santa’s Grotto and lots of market stalls for that extra special gift or just to treat yourself, there will be something there for the whole family to enjoy. The whole of the High Street will be filled with the sounds, sights and scents of a traditional Christmas Where: Alton High Street When: 5th of December 2010 Price: Free
www.letsthinklocal.co.uk
Where: The Point Theatre, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE When: 17th – 21st December Price: Adult £12, Concessions £10. Jack and the Beanstalk at the Kings Theatre Britt Ekland, Steve Arnold (Coronation street), Lynne McGregor (Home & Away), Richard Stride and BBC Solent’s Nick Girdler star in the family favorite. Where: Kings Theatre, Southsea, PO5 2QJ When: 8th December 2010 – 2nd January 2011. Price: from £11.50 Aladdin at the Mayflower Starring Paul O’Grady as his alter ego Lily Savage. Lily plays one of the greatest dames in pantomime and creates a new and updated version of the story of Widow Twankey and her son Aladdin who inherit a laundry in old Peking which quickly leads them towards a tale of adventure, mishap, love, comedy and magic carpet rides. Where: The Mayflower Theatre, Southampton, SO15 1GE When: 10th December – 8th January Price: From £17 Peak Performances, £14 Off Peak Performance.
Where: Portsmouth Guildhall, Portsmouth, PO1 2AB When: 2nd December 2010 Price: From £23.50 Jimmy Car Laughter Therapy Celebrating his 10th year as one of Britain’s most successful comedians, Jimmy Carr is bringing his distinct humour to the length and breadth of the country this autumn for the Laughter Therapy Tour. When: 7th-8th December 2010 Where: Portsmouth Guildhall, Portsmouth, PO1 2AB Price: From £25 Jools Holland 2010 Autumn Tour Jools Holland will be returning to Portsmouth with his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra and will be joined for the very first time by one of the UK’s most enduring and acclaimed vocalists, performers and songwriters, the extraordinary Alison Moyet. Where: Portsmouth Guildhall, Portsmouth, PO1 2AB When: 9th December 2010 Price: from £32.50
Sea Shanty Night Enjoy an evening of singing and table entertainment with Shep Woolley and his crew aboard the HMS Warrior. wine, dine and have a singalong at mess tables and benches where the sailors would have eaten in the 1860s. Where: Portsmouth Historic Dockyard When: 2nd of December 2010 Price: £49pp Alien Invasion, Lecture at the City Museum You’ve seen R2D2 and K9 in our Alien Invasion exhibition so now come along to an enlightening lecture by researchers from the Electronics and Computer Engineering Department of the University of Portsmouth. They will discuss how robotics are used in real world tasks and talk about the department’s own research into the complexities of developing robots with intelligence. Where: Museum Road, Portsmouth, PO1 2LJ When: 11th December 2010 Price: Free An Audience with Barry Norman Barry Norman, CBE - the icon of the small screen - talks about the icons of the silver screen in his show. A unique opportunity for theatre going film lovers to meet the man who has so many great stories to tell of the rich and famous film actors and their antics both on and off screen. Where: The Point Theatre, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE When: 10th December 2010 Price: Adult from £14, Concessions from £13
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www.gosportflames.co.uk
FULL RANGE OF FIRES & FIREPLACES Full in-house installation service FREE surveys, No obligation Traditional, modern & contemporary Gas • Electric • Wood & Multi-fuel stoves
10% DISCOUNT with this advert
On all goods purchased over the value of £400. (Throughout December 2010) • See instore for full terms and conditions
02392 581115 Page 46_V2.indd 1
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Custom Blinds for
Conservatory Blinds We have been manufacturing, supplying & installing all types of blinds for more than 15 years
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café tusk
INDIAN BUFFET RESTUARANT Our spacious and extensive Designer premises house several display islands, each containing piping-hot Traditional Dishes from the very mildest Korma through to Vindaloo, you’re sure to discover just what pleases your taste. Generous portions are assured, because quite simply you help yourself from 50 dishes for lunch and 60 dishes for the evening. Our experienced bar or waiter staff can offer an unrivalled choice of drinks to accompany your meal, from superb Indian Draught Lagers, Kingfisher & Cobra, to wines of the world. Large or small parties are ideal at our 170 seat capacity restaurant. Naturally for your comfort, we are fully air-conditioned.
01329 235511 • 01329 235522 www.cafetusk.co.uk
24 WEST STREET, FAREHAM, HAMPSHIRE, PO16 0LF
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Win an Ipod Touch with
Win an Ipod Touch 8gb 4th generation. All you need to do is answer this simple question... Which city would you find yourself in if you were staying at the Quality Hotel Cambridge? Answers to be emailed to holidays@amitytravel.co.uk with your name and contact details. Closing date is Thursday 23rd December. Prize to be delivered to the winner in time for Christmas. Please see our advert on page 31.
Telephone: 01489 579975 Email: holidays@amitytravel.co.uk Web: www.amitytravel.co.uk 4 Manor Court, Barnes Wallis Road, Segensworth East, Fareham, PO15 5TH
InGadget Android x5aHD Android 2.1 7inch Screen HDMI/1080HD WiFi Price £124.99
RRP £169
InGadget Android 10HD Android 2.1 10inch Screen 1080HD WiFi Price £139.99
RRP £199
FREE UK DELIVERY To order by card or Paypal-
e: sales@InGadget.co.uk t: 07966 725453
WIN
2 RETURN TICKETS from SOUTHAMPTON to LEEDS BRADFORD WITH EASTERN AIRWAYS HOW TO ENTER: For your chance to win, simply email us quoting ‘Eastern’ at hello@letsthinklocal.co.uk with your name and contact details and we will enter you into our free prize draw. Closing date is 31st December 2010.
Terms and Conditions for Letsthinklocal Flight Competition: 1.No purchase necessary. 2.This competition is not open to employees of Think Local, Eastern Airways or any person directly or indirectly connected with the competition or family members of any of these persons. 3.Entry is open to all UK residents over 18 years of age. 4.There will be one prize winner only and the prize is two return tickets from Southampton to Leeds Bradford with Eastern Airways. 5.The prize must be taken before 27 May 2011. 6.Tickets are inclusive of taxes and charges and passengers must travel together. 7.The prize is non exchangeable and not redeemable for cash or other prizes. 8.Fare rules apply and flights are subject to availability. 9.No correspondence will be entered into. 10.The editor’s decision is final. 11.Only one entry per household can be accepted. 12.The closing date for the competition is 31 December 2010. 13.The first correct entry drawn will be notified.
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Christmas Specials ~ 10% OAP Discounts
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Now available at
the157store
West St. Fareham also in store: Henri Lloyd Lyle & Scott Henleys Voi Goi Goi and much more...
Tel: 01329 233311
We are now on Facebook
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