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about us
Discover Live Local. Think Local. Buy Local. Distribution - This Winchester edition of Discover is published every other month and distributed by hand. It goes through the doors of households in prime residential areas of Winchester including Kingsworthy, Headbourne Worthy, Weeke, Harestock, Littleton, St Cross, Abbots Barton, Sleepers Hill, Hyde, Teg Down Meads and South Wonston. This is a total of around 8000 properties. For full details of circulation visit www.discoveradvertising.co.uk Advertising - We understand that the needs of a small business are quite different to those of a big company, and our advertising service is very much targeted at independent and local businesses. From advert design to general advice we are here to help you grow. For more details call Melanie 023 8026 6388 or email: melanie @discovermagazines.co.uk
Hello again Between September and December is the Melanie Tinson Tania Houston time of year that more people are working than any other. Summer is well and truly over, nobody is off skiing, taking spring breaks or much else in the way of holidays. Leaving us really just to concentrate on work, education and keeping warm. It’s certainly that way for us at the Discover team. We were do you use a smart phone? presented with a too-good-toTo save our contact details ignore opportunity in the direct to your smart phone, use summer which has resulted in I-nigma QR code reader App us launching two new and scan for instant download. magazines in Fareham and Locks Heath (we have 10 in total now), and taking on a new staff member, Michelle Searle. You might imagine that behind the scenes, Discover Magazines has a big office with staff, shiny cars and the latest computers. But far from it, all of us in the team work from home, some local, some not and mostly on a freelance basis. With the wonders of technology we have been able to set up systems that wouldn’t be any better even if we were in the same room. Front cover image courtesy of Marwell Zoo
What I’m saying is that if you are thinking of starting a business – and more people do in September and January than at any other time – renting an office or taking on the commitment of staff isn’t always essential. If I could offer two tips to start out with they would be firstly, use one of our advertisers to set up your technology (look under Computer Services in the index); and secondly go to peopleperhour.com to find freelancers (or to become one yourself).
Tania PS: Of course if you do start your own business, there’s no better place to advertise it than here! Romsey Chandlers Ford Southampton Southampton West Winchester Southampton East Hedge End Meon Valley LocksHeath Fareham
editorial enquiries
next issue : diary dates
Please visit www.discovercommunity.co.uk and use the Editorial Form under Contact Us Email: editorial@discovermagazines.co.uk Tel: 023 8026 6388
Editorial copy deadline: 5 November Advertisement copy deadline: 7 November Distributed: 15 November
advertising enquiries
To be sure of your place in the next issue please contact Melanie on 023 8026 6388 visit www.discoveradvertising.co.uk or melanie@discovermagazines.co.uk
Tel: Melanie: 023 8026 6388 Email: melanie@discovermagazines.co.uk Web: www.discoveradvertising.co.uk
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contents
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inspired interiors
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it’s good to talk
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Weed attack
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Where other’s Fall down
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nicemoves
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puzzle page
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local events
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rhinos and ringtails
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advertisers index
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the better life
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hampshire Walks
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local & useful numbers
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Making dream homes come true one man’s vision comes good. Oozing with vision, flair, quality craftsmanship and materials, Inspired Interiors & Property Maintenance is a turnkey Interior Design, Refurbishment and Decoration company with a passion for helping people create their dream home.
interior design
This brand new enterprise is the result of entrepreneur businessman Lee Unwin’s reaction to the first class refurbishment of a project close to his heart – his own home – a 1st-floor apartment in Bishopstoke Manor. Set in over five acres of landscaped grounds in the conservation area of Old Bishopstoke, this Grade II listed, early 19th-century converted manor house is subject to English Heritage policies on conservation, registration and protection of our nation’s historic environment.
refurbishment Undaunted by the demands of this project, Lee handpicked an Interior Designer and a team of professional tradesmen with over 300 years’ experience between them in residential interior design and installation. He was bowled over by their work and they were fired by his vision and drive. Together they joined forces to create Inspired Interiors & Property Maintenance Limited: “Attention to detail is the trademark of true craftsmanship – work that bears scrutiny, and you only get this from qualified, time-served professionals who take deep pride in their craft,” comments Lee. “My apartment was totally refurbished, taken back to its shell and transformed into chic contemporary living within classic Georgian style. New sash windows were installed together with skirtings, doors and architraves. A wall was removed, oak floors, carpets and tiles laid, walls 6
plastered, painted and papered. New electrics, boiler and radiators were incorporated, and a new kitchen and bathroom were fitted. You name it and it was done – to an exceptional standard and to English Heritage guidelines, too. It made sense to take this impressive talent and use it to create dream homes for people with an eye for quality who know exactly how they want to live.” With several bespoke projects and delighted customers to its credit, Inspired Interiors is already living up to its promise of ‘You picture it and it’s done!’ – as fellow resident and Director of Bishopstoke Manor Management Company, Pam Lawton, confirms: “The apartment is immaculate and a credit to Lee Unwin’s company, Inspired Interiors & Property Maintenance – the business it generated. The whole team was discreetly efficient and considerate of the other residents – the hallmark of a true professional.” Inspired Interiors has every trade at its highly skilled fingertips – from structural work through to decorating and carpentry, and all the behind-thescene essentials such as plumbing and electrics. Every project receives consummate attention to detail whatever its size – from decorating a single to room to the renovation of an entire building. You name it, Inspired Interiors & Property Maintenance can do it – to perfection!
decoration See our main advert on page 7.
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Until 6th October
local events
Colourful Costume Exhibition Spectacular costumes, fabrics and artefacts used in traditional Kathakali dance and drama will be on display at City Space gallery in the Winchester Discovery Centre from Saturday 14 September to Sunday 6 October. Together with the stunning costumes there will be masks and textiles that bring alive the vibrant and colourful tradition of this fascinating and ancient form of storytelling. From its origins in Kerala in south-west India, visitors will be taken on a journey into the rich cultural heritage of the Kerala community who left their homeland to settle in Hampshire. On Saturday 28 September you can enjoy a memorable and visually spectacular performance from the internationally renowned Kala Chethena Kathakali Company from Kerala. Performances dramatically conjure up powerful stories; good and evil battling for supremacy with ancient mythologies brought to life. The performance starts at 7.30pm and will finish at 10pm. Tickets are ÂŁ6 each, available from the Winchester Discovery Centre Box Office. Between 3pm and 5pm on the day of the performance it will be possible to see the elaborate Kathakali make-up being applied to the actors. Again please contact the Box Office to book a place. This is a rare opportunity to see this exciting and spectacular cultural event combining performance, exhibits and hands-on participation that offers something for all the family. 10
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SA IS MP SU LE E
HUMOUR
The Better Life
The Better Life is the tales and observations of a London townie, who downshifted to Cornwall. A bit like the Good Life, but with the internet.
It all started one morning in the kitchen, when Anne asked, “How would you feel about keeping chickens?” I didn't answer right away. In the time we've been together I've learned the language of subtext. I finished my breakfast and replied, “When are we picking them up?” I wasn't entirely averse to the idea of a little selfsufficiency. Who doesn't have fond memories of The Good Life - and especially Felicity Kendal? Plus it'd be a chance to shed my townie upbringing and dispel that grim story my dad used to tell - the one about dispatching a chicken for the first and only time, where the head came off in in his hands and the headless chicken ran up the path. Stage one in Operation Chickadee was researching coops and chicken feed and, well, chickens really. There's a lot to learn about chicken behaviour, the different breeds and their foibles. Having taken advice, we decided on hybrids, as they're more reliable for eggs and point-of-lay birds for immediate production. We went upmarket with the coop (pictured top), choosing an easy care metal and plastic affair from Omlet (yes, really!). Now all we needed to do was find the right chickens - and Anne was already on the case. The day after the chicken coop and run were installed in the front garden, we entered the mysterious world of farm supplies. Layers pellets, grit (for strong shells), straw and worming treatment - check. However, my suggestion that we buy jodhpurs as well fell on stony ground. Having located a poultry supplier, we headed out with an empty cat box and a pile of newspaper. The farmer led us to a densely populated barn and said, “Take your pick.” I don't know exactly how Anne chose the chickens - which the farmer insisted were hens - but we went home with Sweet Pea (a Plymouth Rock / Maran) and Pepperami (a Plymouth Rock / Rhode Island).
The chickens were confined to barracks for a few days, to allow them to settle in and retrain the cat. Once they emerged, we noted the following: 1. At least an egg a day! 2. A huge reduction in the snail population. 3. Sweet Pea failed to live up to her name, went broody and took it out on the cat (luckily it's a very fast cat). 4. The garden quickly came to resemble The Somme. Something had to be done because, unlike me, Anne is a passionate gardener. Plus, the round up in the evenings was time consuming. We fenced off one half of the garden and, after a few 'great escapes', augmented the fencing with extra bamboo canes in leaf, whereupon the chickens looked as if they were starring in their own episode of Tenko. Sweet Pea and Pepperami were both restful to watch and very entertaining. They performed chicken yoga wing stretching exercises. They played tug-of-war with snails and 'I'll have what she's having' tussles over worms, morning porridge and, on one unfortunate occasion, a wood mouse. Our neighbours relish the availability of fresh, local eggs and they enjoy the egg-laying serenade every morning. And the poultry poop makes great compost. No chickens were harmed in the making of this feature. My dad would be proud. Derek Thompson is a writer and humourist based in the West Country. His writing blog can be found at www. alongthewritelines.blogspot.com and he is also a regular at www.strictlywriting.blogspot.com by Derek Thompson
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local events & groups
Race to Beat Cancer Race for Life is the UK’s biggest fight against cancer and the largest women-only fundraising event in the UK. Since Race for Life started in 1994, an incredible six million participants have raised over £493million, more than any other UK event series raising money to fund cancer research. Some of the Race for Life women take part in celebration of surviving a cancer experience. Others take part in memory of a loved one or to give hope to a cancer-free future. But all share a common goal: to raise money for Cancer Research UK's groundbreaking work and to help save more lives. On the 18th October, Race for Life Twilight is taking place on Southampton common. Over 5k you'll run, walk and jog to show cancer who’s boss by raising money to help beat it sooner. It’s £14.99 to enter, or £10 for under 16s (free for under 5s). Visit raceforlife.org or 0845 600 6050.
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New members are always welcome
local events & groups
Winchester Photographic Society The Winchester Photographic Society caters for all levels from novice to experienced photographers. We meet weekly from September through May and our programme covers talks, lectures, competitions, workshops and even an Exhibition in the Discovery Centre. We cover a diverse number of photographic genres and occasionally add extra dates for interest group meetings and additional workshops. New members are always welcomed and can visit initially as a guest. Roger Clark 02380 253600, rogerclark1@mac.com Tuesdays 7:30pm starting Sept 3rd Winchester Discovery Centre
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OUT & ABOUT
Local What’s On
MOTTISFONT AUTUMN FEAST: VEGETABLE ORCHESTRA
WINCHESTER CATHEDRAL HARVEST MARKET FESTIVAL
21 and 22 Sep Mottisfont National Trust, Mottisfont, SO51 0LP Join in our season of Autumn feast and create wonderful instruments out of fresh fruit and vegetables! Then have a go at playing them at the end of the session. Booking Essential £8 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mottisfont Contact 01794 340757.
5 and 6 Oct, 9am-2pm Middle Brook Street, Middle Brook Street Car Park, SO23 9LS Farmers’ Market selling local produce. Contact 01420 588 671. www.hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk
QUIZ EVENING FOR RNLI ROMSEY & DISTRICT BRANCH BIG SLEEP OUT 20 Sep, 7pm-10pm, 7pm-8am for sponsored sleepers Winchester Cathedral, SO23 9LS Join up to 500 people sleeping under the stars at Winchester Cathedral and raise money for Winchester’s homeless. Everyone can come along and enjoy food and entertainment and then it will be sleepers only from 10pm, bedding down in the grounds of the magnificent building. We will provide the cardboard to sleep on, you bring the spirit and warmth to get you through the night 11+. £10 registration fee. Target of £100 sponsorship. Contact 01962 842827.
PAMPER DAY 21 Sep, 10am-4pm Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, SO20 6HE Come along for a day of pampering and shopping. We have fully qualified therapists who will provide all attendees with a wonderful mini treatment on either their hands or feet, which is included into your event entry fee. Before or after your treatment please take time to visit all of our wonderful stallholders, who have some beautiful gifts and products for you to enjoy!. £8.00 to include a mini treatment and prize draw ticket This event is fundraising for Enham Trust and Endometriosis UK. Contact 07984 823280 22
5 Oct, 7.30pm Romsey Scout Hall, Braishfield Road Teams of 4 or 6 (or come on your own). £10 per person (includes Ploughman's Supper). Contact Owen Davies on 01794 514869.
GLUTEN FREE FOOD FAIR 5 Oct, 10am-2:30pm Guildhall Winchester, SO23 9GH The South's biggest Gluten Free event of the year. Major gluten-free food manufacturers. Local Suppliers, medical speakers, gluten-free food tombola, free samples (subject to availability) Coeliac UK, the charity providing support for people with gluten intolerance and dermatitis herpetiformis and members of the Wessex Group committee will be on hand to offer advice and answer any questions you may have about coeliac disease and the gluten-free diet. Entry £2 for adults, children free. www.coeliac.org.uk/wessex
ALRESFORD ART AND CRAFT SHOW 5 Oct, 10am-4.30pm Alresford Community Centre, West Street, SO24 9AG Crafts will include Cross stitch gifts and decoupage cards, wood craft, door harps, hand painted ceramics, beaded jewellery, stained and leaded glasswork, decorative metalwork, original watercolours and photography. Free entry. Contact 01252 724968.
WALK THE TEST WAY ROMSEY 6 Oct Romsey, SO51 8GL 6 different fantastic walks along the Test Way, organised by the Rotary Club of Romsey Test. Take part and raise money for Macmillan. www.walkthetestway.org.uk
ROMSEY MALE VOICE CHOIR AND ROMSEY YOUTH CHOIR FOR RNLI ROMSEY & DISTRICT BRANCH 12 Oct, 7.30pm United Reformed Church, Romsey Tickets £10 per person from Chris Green on 01794 323602 or Mike Nobbs on 01794 515401.
OLD ALRESFORD HOUSE – OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS 13 and 15 Oct, 10am-5pm Old Alresford House, SO24 9DY C18 landscape garden (Grade ll listed) restored from original plans. 22-acre parkland with rare breeds surrounded by 13-acre gardens and perimeter woodland walk (30 mins) featuring ha-ha, immaculate lawns, shrubberies, wildlife pond, chalk stream with bog garden, boardwalk and medieval coach road. Views and vistas. Also, contemporary Mediterranean walled garden. Admission £5, children free. www.oldalresfordhouse.com
THE BOOTLEG BLUES BROTHERS 19 Oct, doors open 8pm The Hilt, Chandlers Ford This lively and entertaining duo are sure to wow the audience and get people dancing! Tickets and information from tickets@thehilt.org.uk
FAMILY HISTORY FOR BEGINNERS 22 Oct, 6-8pm and 10 Oct, 2-3pm Hampshire Record Office, Sussex Street, SO23 8TH Find your ancestors in the archives at Hampshire Record Office. Access Hampshire family history sources on microfilm/fiche and some for England and Wales. All you need to know to begin researching your family tree. Booking required on 01962 846 154. ÂŁ12 per person. www3.hants.gov.uk/archives
OCTOBER HALF TERM AT MOTTISFONT 26 Oct to 3 Nov, 10am-5pm Mottisfont House and Gardens, SO51 0LP Come along for a spooky time this half term. Pick up a trail for a spooky prize. See if you can spot any creepy-crawlies, search for animal footprints as well as other things to tick off your '50 things' list. Collect conkers and come back
on the last day of half term to compete in our conker competition. Normal admissions apply. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mottisfont
AUTUMN HALF TERM AT MARWELL 26 Oct to 3 Nov Marwell Wildlife, Colden Common, SO21 1JH Freaky fun for all the family. Watch as the animals enjoy some tasty pumpkin enrichment treats, meet the mini beasts, take part in our spooky storytelling, ride on our hauntingly good Ghost Train (usual fee applies) and create your own Halloween pumpkin. Contact 01962 777 407 or visit www.marwell.org.uk
HALLOWEEN AT LAINSTON HOUSE HOTEL 31 Oct, 6pm-7pm Lainston House Hotel, Sparsholt, SO21 2LT Shocks, frights and devious
delights! Gruesomely carved pumpkins will light your way to the Kitchen Garden as you celebrate All Hallow's Eve with a ghoulish owl display by moonlight before the chills are chased away by a delicious hot cocoa with marshmallows. ÂŁ10 per person children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Contact 01962 776088.
HAPPY FAMILY HALLOWEEN 31 Oct, 1pm-4pm St Harold Hillier Gardens, Jermyns Lane, Ampfield, SO51 0QA Not so spooky theatre fun. The very popular Forest Forge Theatre Company bring their own fun twist to make Halloween a little less spooky for U11s. With skits and stories in the Education Garden. Children are encouraged to dress up and join in. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Contact 01794 369318 or visit www3.hants.gov.uk/hilliergardens
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The Changing Face of Estate Agency What happens when an estate agent and a property investor come together in business? NiceMoves was founded by just such a partnership. Ann has been an estate agent for over a decade and Tim, a landlord with an extensive portfolio, has bought and sold many properties. Both have experience in property refurbishment and development. Covering the whole of Hampshire, NiceMoves is a ‘full-service’ estate agency, which simply means they offer everything you would expect from the best agents in the industry. With experience of the property market from both sides, as customers and professionals, they felt it was time that someone provided a fresh and simple approach to Estate Agency – an approach that suited today’s world, but with traditional values. The advent of the internet has changed the way people buy and sell houses forever. By using cutting-edge systems and technology, they are able to provide excellent service without the need for expensive premises. Therefore, they can operate effectively AND competitively. “We really think you’ll like how we do business. We keep things simple and straight-forward - just great service, at a sensible price. We aim to exceed our client’s expectations while saving them thousands of pounds and our customer feedback has been exceptional.” But don’t just take their word for it, here are some of their recent customer testimonials:“Thank you… Such a great value estate agent! To get asking price within 48 hours of the property being on the
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market was fantastic! And you have been so helpful over the last few weeks, it’s really appreciated. I will definitely be recommending NiceMoves to friends and family.” Ms Fisher, Basingstoke “NiceMoves gave a great service, at a great price! What more could you ask for?” Miss Kearns, Fleet “We've completed and have the keys. Honestly Ann, we both cannot thank you enough for finding us the perfect family home and standing by our side. We’ll never forget that.” Mr & Mrs Smith, Totton For a fee of just £895, NiceMoves include everything you would expect from a traditional estate agent… and much more! Not only do they provide advertising on all the major property websites including Rightmove and Zoopla, they ensure your home is marketed in the best way possible by using professional photography and a detailed floor-plan. The mandatory Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is also included at no extra cost. “We genuinely care about our customers. We understand that the house-moving experience can be daunting and stressful. We pride ourselves on going the extra mile. Getting a buyer is usually the easy part. Making sure the sale goes through to completion requires empathy, experience and excellent communication. We can also help you search for and buy your next property and are happy to offer advice and negotiate on your behalf if you wish.” To find out more please call 0844 556 9889 or email info@nicemoves.co.uk. The website is at www.nicemoves.co.uk or find them on Facebook and Twitter.
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Peek-a-boo!
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local events & groups
Chameleon Comedy For their October production, The Chameleons of Chandlers Ford will be staging ‘The Nightingales’ a comedy set in the 1950’s. The Nightingales are members of a theatrical family who perform more at home than they do on the stage. Jack is a cabaret star, as in love with his piano as he is with his silk dressing gowns. His parents, Charlie and Beatrice, are old Music Hall stars, full of hilarious tales of life on the road. Maggie performs with Jack in the evenings and regularly visits his house to rehearse, drink tea, and tell the sorry tale of her latest romantic disaster. This is a very funny, touching comedy, bursting with one-liners and lovable characters. The Chameleons Theatre, Ritchie Hall, Hursley Road, Chandlers Ford, Thurs 24 Oct-Sat 26 Oct, 7pm doors open for 7.30pm start. £7 for adults, £6 seniors, £5 children. Contact 0845 6440 496 for tickets. If you’re interested in joining The Chameleons, come along any Tuesday or ring the box office on 0845 644 0496.
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Walk from Exton this walk is approx 6.5 miles
It all starts at the Shoe Inn
‘South Downs Way’. Cross a section of wooden duckboards and walk along the narrow footpath between hedge and tree lined fields that narrows down to a gully and climbs steadily for some 600 yards.
Exton lies just off the A32 Droxford to West Meon road in the Meon Valley. Park in the Shoe Inn (SO32 3NT) car park located on Shoe Lane. Authorisation to park is required (01489 877526). Alternatively, drive through the village almost back to the A32 and park in the small lay-by opposite the entrance to Manor Farm. This walk is described from the Shoe Inn. On leaving the pub, turn left towards the church, follow the lane through the village for 200 yards to a ‘T’ junction and turn right. Keep straight on until you join the main A32. Cross the road onto a footpath signed ‘No through road’. Cross a footbridge over the Meon River. Trace this path for around 400 yards and with barns in front of you and a path joining from the left, turn left along the signed 30
***Climb some wooden steps up to the disused railway track bed and turn left; walkers and cyclists can be seen heading up from the right from Wickham. Beacon Hill on your left and Old Winchester Hill on your right are occasionally glimpsed through the trees.*** Keep going straight for approximately 1200 yards ignoring other paths and tracks until you descend onto a minor road. Cross the road and climb the opposite bank to return to the track bed. Continue along the track for a further 1800 yards until it passes Pass under road bridge
under a road bridge. Access to this road is by walking further along to a footpath joining from the left for another 200 yards then turning left back on yourself up the slope to the road above.
Meon River
Turn left and walk along the road past Hayden Barn Cottage on the left. The road climbs steadily uphill for some 600 yards. Approaching the top of the hill, turn right onto a gravel track signed ‘Peake Farm’ and also signed as Monarch’s Way. Follow this track towards the farm for a good 1000 yards. At a left hand bend, ignore the track going straight on into a field. Follow the track around towards the farm, passing some fields with show jumping fences and stables for the local horses. At the farm buildings, turn sharp right onto a waymarked footpath running between fields. The path emerges onto a metalled road to Peakes Farm. Turn left at the road. Walk approximately 50 yards then turn
HISTORICAL NOTE... In 940 AD, the village of Exton carried the name of East Seaxnatune meaning the farmstead of the East Saxons. The 13th century church of St Peter and Paul was heavily restored in 1847. In 1801, the population of Exton was 224. By 1901 it had grown slightly to 299 persons but reduced again to 230 in 2001. The Meon Valley railway line was opened in June 1903 to connect Alton to Fareham and Gosport. It was one of Hampshire’s least successful railway enterprises and closed in 1955.
right along the side of a barn. Follow the path around the end of the barn and then along the left hand boundary of a field. Turn left through a gateway at the field boundary to join a concrete and tarmac farm track.
Follow the signed path left along the right-hand boundary of a field, which switches half way up into a field requiring the walk to continue on the left hand edge. The path climbs steadily uphill, but offers some stunning views across mid Hampshire, Old Winchester Hill and surrounding areas. At the top of the rise, turn left along the field fence line and follow the path as it turns right along the left hand side of the field. At the end of the field, turn right onto the South Downs Way footpath leading away from Old Winchester Hill. The path meanders downhill alongside field boundaries with chalky conditions underfoot and some 1500 yards of twisting decent. At the bottom of the hill, turn left
Stunning views
into woodland. Follow the path left ignoring paths merging from the right. ***Climb some wooden steps to the railway track bed. Cross straight over and descend more steps onto the footpath used on your outward journey (as shown in the dialogue marked ***). Follow the footpath back to the A32, cross the road into Church Lane and retrace your steps back to your car. A downloadable pdf of the walk and enlarged map is available online at www.discovercommunity.co.uk
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SA IS MP SU LE E
GARDENING
Weed Attack Weed?
Ask a dictionary the definition of a weed and you’ll read that it’s ‘a plant growing in the wrong place’. Ask a gardener, and they’ll tell you that weeds are often the number one menace in their garden. Some weeds are pretty, some less so, but one thing they all have in common is that they are indeed growing where you don’t want them, and may be causing your garden plants to suffer. So if you want to wage war on those pesky weeds, and stand a chance of winning, take a look at my multi-pronged attack strategy.
by Pippa Greenwood
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Off with their Heads
white flower heads.
Whatever the weed problem, it’s essential to prevent them from setting seed as most weeds are very efficient at building up their numbers by seed. So even if you don’t have the time to sort the weed out properly, make sure you cut off its head before it has a chance to even start to set seed. The old saying that ‘one year’s seed is seven years’ weed’ isn’t far from the truth.
Spaghetti roots Some weeds like couch grass, bindweed and nettles have amazingly resilient and farreaching underground stems or roots. If you’ve just taken on a new plot of land, be it a garden or an allotment, there is a good chance that it’ll be riddled with at least one of these spaghettirooted weeds. Whatever you do, don’t succumb to the temptation to use a powered cultivator or rotovator as this will chop the roots in to little bits and end up spreading and increasing the problem in the process.
Stop Stowaways When you’re next shopping for plants in your local garden centre or nursery make sure that you only bring home what you want, not those pesky weed stowaways that often lurk on the compost surface. I always do a bit of weeding before buying: especially for weeds such as the innocent looking hairy bitter-cress (Card-amine hirsuta) with their tiny rosettes or leaves and pretty little
Lawn Louts Lawn weeds such as dandelions and daisies are difficult to control as unlike the taller weeds, these rosette-forming plants won’t be harmed as you mow the lawn. One of the best methods is to tackle them with a sturdy old kitchen knife or a daisygrubber tool. It may be a slow process but will allow you to dig them out individually.
Deep Rooted Problems Some weeds such as
docks and dandelions have tough and chunky roots that are very difficult to kill. And to make matters worse, if you leave any sizeable bit of the root in the soil, it’s likely to form a new plant. Do everything you can to take out the entire root as you’ll be saving a lot of time in the long run. I have recently discovered a great pocket-sized weeder, originally from New Zealand but now manufactured over here. It’s brilliant for removing this sort of weed and others such as small thistles, creeping buttercups and so forth. Find out more in the ‘products’ section of www.pippagreenwood.com. It is also great for easing weeds out from gravelled areas.
Laying Carpet If large areas are weedy you could try the carpet option; literally covering the surface with a layer or two of carpet, held in place with bricks. If the carpet is placed fluffy side down and left in place for at least 18 months, the weeds will start to die off from lack of light. Make sure that the carpet is made from natural fibres, not synthetic or else you’ll be left with it in the soil, and for allotments, check that there are no restrictions on using carpet.
Time it Right Some weeds such as the purple flowered oxalis spread by forming tiny ‘bulbils’ or miniature bulbs below ground. If you try to dig these weeds out at this time of year, you’ll run in to trouble as the bulbils will be shed into the surrounding soil as you lift the plant out, making matters worse. Wait until next spring when the bulbils will be firmly attached and weed them out then.
Hoe, hoe, hoe An old fashioned and still just as useful method of weed control is the hoe. They’re readily available at any decent garden centre and are a great way to weed your garden, especially if it’s largely annual weeds such as chickweed or groundsel that invade your plot. Keep the hoe sharp and use it regularly.
Careful what you Compost Only compost the green, leafy bits of weeds; avoid any chunky roots, and never put any flowering or seeding weeds in the compost heap. Some weed seeds will easily survive most domestic systems. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for a great range of gardening products including Pippa’s favourite weeder, Nemaslug, Nemasys caterpillar, slug, ant and other biological controls, Enviromesh & Envirofleece and lots more besides.
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Come along on 5th October
local events & groups
Ampfield Market The Ampfield Village Market is held on the first Saturday of every month from 10am to 12 Noon and has been running for 12 years. The next event is the 5th October and on sale will be fresh fruit and veg, organic bread, savoury foods and Fairtrade products, jams and chutneys, local eggs, plants, flowers, new and old books, jewellery, cards, wrapping paper, crafts, bric a brac, pet foods and accessories. Refreshments are served all morning with fresh coffee and a delicious range of home made cakes. More information Julie Trotter 02380 254587. Ampfield Village Hall, Morleys Lane, Ampfield.
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advertisers index
Live Local Think Local Local businesses are part of your community
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index note For Advertisers offering multiple property services look under Property Maintenance, otherwise see specific trade e.g. Electrician, Carpenter, Plumber etc.
Accountants & Bookkeepers Arlington Accountants Balanced Accounts Clear Accounts UK Aerials Aerial Fix DJ Satellites & Aerials Appliance Repair Advanced Appliance Care Architectural Services Andrew Johns Jem Musselwhite Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Designer Blinds Direct Just Shutters Making Interiors Shading Places Waterside Blinds Catering Wiltshire Farm Foods Children's Activities Kidz in Jackie's Kitch'n Wessex Swim School Chimney Sweep Rainbow Chimney Sweep Chiropody Janet Wright, Chiropodist Shuropody Foot Care Computer Services Home Computer Help RSJ Computer Services Widenet Computer Services
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41 41 43 29 12 11
Counselling Marcus Gee Talking Therapies Double Glazing inc., Conservatories Britannia Windows South Coast Installations Education Hampshire Collegiate School Electrician ALB Electrical EEC 24/7 Romsey Electrical Services Estate Agent & Lettings NiceMoves Fencing & Gates Colourfence Crocodilla Flooring Premier Wooden Flooring Furniture rethunk!
18 29
neW advertisers 39 42 39 37 39 47 43 19 43 15 15 43 41 19
Clear Accounts UK p43 Hampshire Mobility Services p7 Hampshire Collegiate School p23 Inspired Interiors p7 Janet Wright, Chiropodist p15 Just Shutters p42 Making Interiors p39 Neil Richmond Tree & Hedge Services p33 NiceMoves p25
17 20 14 23 27 29 42 25 8 9 37 38
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Painter/Decorator (see also Property Maintenance) BM Services 11 One Painter and Decorator 28 David P. Churcher Painter & Decorator 37 VHN Decorating 32 W.A.G Decorating Services Ltd 27 Pet Services Waggytails Pet Care Services 15 Plumbing Services (including bathroom installations and gas and boiler services) see also Property Maintenance Alford Plumbing & Heating 20 Gair Gas Ltd 11 M.Brierley Plumbing 12 TP Watts Plumbing Services Ltd 21 Printer Warwick Printing Company 21 Property Maintenance & Improvements AJC Property Services 43 BM Services 11 Crocodilla 3,9 Dell Developments 27 EML Property Maintenance 14 House Worx 43 Inspired Interiors 7 Roofing & Property Maintenance 28 The Flat Pack People 12 Security Lockright 21 Tree Surgery (see Garden Waste) Arbor-Call Tree Surgeons 31 Hamptons Tree Care 12 Neil Richmond Tree & Hedge Services 33 Peter Yeates Arboriculture 35 Upholstery Making Interiors 39 Material Things 38 Window Cleaning Ashurst Cleaning Services 43
*Regular Rate
Garage Doors Fix Quick Garage Doors Crocodilla Garage Services Scuffs2Scratches Garden Design & Services Aura Landscapes Crocodilla Greenkeeper Hambrooks Bulk Bags Hambrooks Garden Design & Landscaping Hambrooks Garden Maintenance Worthies Garden Services Hairdresser Hair by Lesley
18 9 18 5 3 33 33 35 10 32 43
Health & Fitness Weeke & Harestock Osteopathic Clinic 17 Zip Pilates 14 Hot Tubs Happy Hot Tubs 48 Kitchens Dream Doors 2 Locksmith Lockright 21 Mobility Hampshire Mobility Services 7 Music Tuition Rockout! Music School 19 Optician Hampson Opticians 10
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Local and Useful Numbers DOCTORS NUMBERS NHS Direct (24 hour Help line) St Clements Surgery, Tanner Street Springvale Surgery, 40 Pound Rd, Kings Worthy The Friarsgate Practice St Paul’s Medical Practice, Alison Way Badger Farm Surgery, Badger Farm Road Gratton Doctors Surgery, Sutton Scotney CHEMIST NUMBERS Springvale Pharmacy 18 Fraser Road, Kingsworthy, SO23 7PJ Boots the Chemist 35-38 High Street, SO23 9BL.
0845 46 47 01962 852211 01962 882957 0844 4770947 01962 853599 01962 877222 01962 760394
01962 884848 01962 852020
01962 854725 Lloyds Pharmacy , SO22 6EW. Terrace Clifton Way, Alison y, Surger St Paul’s 01962 842180 Local Boots Pharmacy 6EL. Unit 1, Stockbridge Road, Weeke, SO22 01962 868641 Sainsbury’s Pharmacy SO22 4QB. Unit 3, Sainsbury’s Complex, Badger Farm, times g openin shop to nt Differe 01962 854575 Lloyds Pharmacy 155 High Street, SO23 9BA. 01962 852701 Lloyds Pharmacy Ltd Silver Hill, SO23 8AE. RECYCLING CENTRES www.integra.org.uk/recycling 01962 868523 Bar End, Winchester pm (Oct - March) Open daily 8am-7pm (April - Sept), 8am-4 LIBRARIES http://www.hants.gov.uk/library/ 0845 6035631 Winchester Lending Library SO23 8RX, Winchester Discovery Centre, Jewry St, Sun 10am-4pm Open: Mon - Fri 9am-7pm, Sat 9am-5pm, www.discoverycentres.co.uk/winchester 0845 6035631 Stanmore Library 4EH SO22 ore, Wavell Way, Stanm & Fri 5.30pm-7pm, Open: Mon 2pm-5pm, Tue Closed, Wed Thur 2pm-5pm, Sat & Sun Closed SCHOOL HOLIDAYS ols/holidays.php http://www.hants.gov.uk/education/scho Summer Term Summer: Wed 24/7/13 - Mon 2/9/13 Autumn Term Half Term: Mon 28/10/13 - Fri 1/11/13 Christmas: Mon 23/12/13 - Fri 3/1/14
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SCHOOL NUMBERS All Saints CofE Primary School l Compton All Saints' CofE Primary Schoo Harestock Primary School Henry Beaufort School Itchen Abbas Primary School Kings Worthy Primary School
01962 853179 01962 712035 01962 881026 01962 880073 01962 779310 01962 881410 01962 861161 l Schoo Kings' 01962 860393 Ctr n's Childre & l Schoo y Lanterns Nurser 01962 774213 Micheldever CofE Primary School 01962 869496 Oliver's Battery Primary School 01962 854537 Osborne School 01962 857500 Peter Simmonds College 01962 713445 l Schoo l Specia Down Shepherds 01962 881311 l Schoo y South Wonston Primar 01962 852463 St Bede CofE Primary School 01962 854934 St Faith's C E Primary School St Peter's Catholic Voluntary 01962 852820 Aided Primary School, Winchester 01962 852941 l Schoo y Stanmore Primar 01962 882710 Weeke Primary School 01962 852591 Western CofE Primary School 01962 854757 Westgate School, The 01962 853889 l Schoo y Primar ll Winna USEFUL CONTACTS Hampshire County Council Winchester City Council Planning Applications Refuse Street Lighting Highways & Traffic Police (routine inquiries) Royal Hants County Hospital
0845 603 5638 01962 840222 01962 848177 0845 603 5634 0800 506060 01962 848241 0845 0454545 01962 863535 01962 852602 01962 842626 01962 791110
Dial-a-Ride Shopmobility Steve Brine MP 9 Stockbridge Rd, Winchester, SO22 6RN steve.brine.mp@parliament.uk EMERGENCY NUMBERS Police, Fire or Ambulance Services Police (Incident Reports) Portsmouth Water - Fresh Water Supply Portsmouth Water - Leaks to Report (Out of hours 24hr) Southern Water - Sewage Southern Water - Tech Support Gas – National Grid (If you smell gas,call us immediately) Electricity
999 0845 045 45 45 02392 499888 02392 477999 0845 272 0845 0845 278 0845 0800 111 999 0845 7708090
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