Discover Meon Valley December 2014

Your FREE Neighbourhood Magazine

Meon Valley

including Bishop’s Waltham, Wickham & Swanmore

How ‘Green’ is your Garden Pippa Greenwood’s gardening column

Recipe of the month A Warming Vegetarian Curry

Christmas 1914 A Christmas Truce in the Trenches

What to do, where to go Bumper edition of groups listings and local events

This issue is sponsored by Ableworld

r e b m ce 014 e D 2

2 2

ADVERTORIAL ADVERTORIAL

ADVERTISING FEATURE

New Mobility Store, Southampton Ableworld, the UK’s leading Ableworld, the UK’s leading mobility company, is delighted mobility company, is delighted to announce the opening of to announce the opening of its latest franchise store in its latest franchise store in Southampton.

Southampton.

Ableworld Southampton is Ableworld Southampton is owned by local businessmen owned by local businessmen Jeff Newman, Steven Thompson Jeff Newman, Steven Thompson and Chris Hewitt and is located and Chris Hewitt and is located at 42-46 Portsmouth Road, at 42-46 Portsmouth Road, Woolston, Southampton, SO19 Woolston, Southampton, SO19 9AD. Ableworld is easy and 9AD. Ableworld is easy and convenient to reach with ample convenient to reach with ample free parking. free parking.

From spacious premises, From spacious premises, Ableworld offers customers Ableworld offers customers a wide selection of quality a wide selection of quality mobility and homecare mobility and homecare products. A local store, staffed products. A local store, staffed by local people is often the by local people is often the place to go for the best service place to go for the best service and that is certainly the case and that is certainly the case here, but Ableworld is also here, but Ableworld is also the place to find the keenest the place to find the keenest prices and enjoyable shopping prices and enjoyable shopping experience. experience.

The store stocks a very wide The store stocks a very wide range of products including range of products including larger items such as mobility larger items such as mobility scooters, wheelchairs, scooters, wheelchairs, adjustable beds and rise and adjustable beds and rise and recline chairs but also many recline chairs but also many smaller items to help with day smaller items to help with day to day tasks. They also hold to day tasks. They also hold a wide range of products to a wide range of products to help with bathing, toileting help with bathing, toileting and dressing as well as a range and dressing as well as a range of continence care products. of continence care products.

Ableworld also installs stairlifts Ableworld also installs stairlifts and service scooters. Whatever and service scooters. Whatever the product, the aim is to help the product, the aim is to help people to lead easier, more people to lead easier, more comfortable and independent comfortable and independent lives. lives.

The directors of Ableworld The directors of Ableworld Southampton are all local Southampton are all local people who have significant people who have significant 2

experience behind them. Jeff’s experience behind them. Jeff’s working history goes back over working history goes back over 35 years and includes retail, 35 years and includes retail, construction and hospitality. construction and hospitality.

His most recent role was as His most recent role was as a local Franchised Milkman a local Franchised Milkman and was 2008 Southern area and was 2008 Southern area Milkman of the Year. Many Milkman of the Year. Many of Jeff’s old customers are of Jeff’s old customers are similar in age and needs to similar in age and needs to Ableworld’s core customers.

Ableworld’s core customers.

Steven and Chris have had Steven and Chris have had a successful partnership for a successful partnership for several years and bring their several years and bring their skills from construction and skills from construction and mechanical engineering into mechanical engineering into the business, something that the business, something that will be particularly useful on will be particularly useful on the stairlift and scooter side of the stairlift and scooter side of the business. All the business. All three directors three directors have undertaken have undertaken Ableworld’s Ableworld’s extensive and extensive and rigorous training rigorous training programme so programme so that they can that they can assess customers assess customers correctly and correctly and provide the provide the

right solutions for the right solutions for the variety of customer’s variety of customer’s needs they will face. needs they will face.

Jeff has a clear Jeff has a clear view how he and his view how he and his fellow directors can fellow directors can help local people help local people who need mobility who need mobility equipment “Having equipment “Having had daily contact with had daily contact with elderly and disabled elderly and disabled customers in my customers in my previous occupation, I previous occupation, I witnessed several fall witnessed several fall injuries and mobility injuries and mobility complaints. With our complaints. With our store having good store having good parking and being parking and being on several main bus on several main bus routes I believe our routes I believe our highly visible and accessible highly visible and accessible superstore on Portsmouth Road, superstore on Portsmouth Road, opposite the bus station, will opposite the bus station, will fill a gap in the market and fill a gap in the market and serve as a welcome benefit to serve as a welcome benefit to the community.” Whatever your the community.” Whatever your needs, you can be assured of a needs, you can be assured of a range of quality products from range of quality products from names you can trust. names you can trust.

Why not call in? Open 8.30 to Why not call in? Open 8.30 to 5.30 Monday to Saturday you 5.30 Monday to Saturday you can visit your new Ableworld can visit your new Ableworld store at 42-46 Portsmouth store at 42-46 Portsmouth Road, Woolston, Southampton, Road, Woolston, Southampton, SO19 9AD. SO19 9AD. Tel: 02380 440000.

Tel: 02380 440000.

AUTUMN SAVERS AT Anderton Riser Recliner Chair

Bellavita Bathlift • 3 recline positions

• A high quality british built dual motor lift recliner

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4 Wheel Walker • Easily manoeuvrable • Can be used inside or outside • Includes a seat, tray, basket and walking stick holder

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Chicago

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Opposite Itchen Bridge A3025

Itchen

Brid

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Road St Jo hn’s

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Portsmouth Road

Patients Inkerm Car Parkan Ro

• Comfort covers are

3 Lucky customers wiLL win back the price of their new stairLift*

Stairlifts

FREEPHONE 0800 038 7800

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machine washable

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FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION SURVEY

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24 Hour Callout Service We have people on the phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week plus overnight and weekend engineering support Often Fitted Next Day

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STRAIGHT RECONDITIONED STAIRLIFTS:

Rascal 850

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FROM ONLY

Road Scooter

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£1595*

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• Max Range: 24 miles • Max Speed: 8mph • Max User Weight: 21 stone

Includes fitting & warranty*

On

* You will automatically be entered into a draw if you purchase between 30th June and 20th December.

Draw date: Monday 29th December 2014.

Bath Tub Safety Rail • Offers confidence and stability when getting in and out if the bath.

• Screws onto the side of the bath.

• Clamp is adjustable from 8cm to 15cm

Saving £5.00 on previous price

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WE BUY BACK STAIRLIFTS - UP TO £500 PAID ACORN, BROOKS, MINIVATOR & AGE UK Subject to survey and age

Budget Wheelchair Bag • A bag which fits onto the handles of a wheelchair.

• Made from a waterproof nylon material.

• The high visibility strip on the bag helps REDUCED to increase user safety.

• Height: 31cm Width: 35cm Depth:15cm .99*

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£9

Lap Tray • Ideal for use in the bedroom, lounge or around the home • Comfortable and stable with a built-in beanbag type cushion • Suitable for dining, reading, writing, hobbies and crafts REDUCED • Wipe-clean finish on the table top for convenience .49

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Uplifting Seat • Sit and get up from a seated position • Helps to push the user up gently • Does not require batteries or electricity • It has 6 positions for different weight capacity (5-16st)

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20% OFF

S OLU TNO NAE DM UP OLTSAH W S TDR YON AABBL L EE WW OO RR LD LD

42-46 Portsmouth Road, Woolston, Bryniau Road, West Shore, Llandudno, The RJ and AH Orthopaedic Hospital Southampton, SO19 9AD. Conwy LL30 2BL Gobowen, Oswestry, SY10 7AG Now open

Tel: 023 8044 0000

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Abri Soft Bed Pads 60x60

Sunday (01492) 680180 338549 Tel: (01691) 10am-4pm Open 8.30 to 5.30 Monday toOPEN Saturday Opposite Baptist Church 7 DAYS A WEEK NOW AT ThE MAIN ENTRANCE info@ableworldsouthampton.co.uk Towww.ableworld.co.uk see more stores, please visit: www.ableworld.co.uk ad

Bus Routes First 3,5,6, 8, 11, 13, 4, 4A, X4 Blue Star 3

£100

GIFT VOUChER WITh ALL NEW STAIRLIFTS PURChASED

www.ableworld.co.uk Ableworld are the main mobility retailer in the area approved as a Community Equipment Dispenser

NHS Vouchers Welcome “VAT Exempt - Ask in Store for Details +Price for Minivator 950 MRP - Manufacturers Recommended Price.

Previous Price - Sold for 28 Days in Last 6 months at our Nantwich Store * Ableworld are an Appointed Representative of Fish Insurance, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

3

Hello Again

ABOUT US

Discover Magazines Tel: 023 8026 6388 ADVERTISING SALES ENQUIRIES Tel: Melanie Tinson 023 8027 6396 Email: melanie@discovermagazines.co.uk Web: www.discoveradvertising.co.uk

ARTWORK ENQUIRIES Tel: Izzy Ewen 02380 266388 option 3 Email: design@discovermagazines.co.uk

ACCOUNTS ENQUIRIES Tel: Tania Houston 02380 266388 option 2 Email: Tania@discovermagazines.co.uk

EDITORIAL/COMMUNITY NEWS Please visit www.discovercommunity.co.uk and use the Editorial Form under Contact Us Email: editorial@discovermagazines.co.uk Tel: 02380 266388 option 4

Well nearly at the end of another year, and I’m trotting out all the old clichés at home: Can’t believe it’s December, where has the year gone? And at work: Can’t believe we’ve been running Discover Meon Valley for over three years. I think you can only appreciate each year by remembering milestones, so here’s a few of ours.

January: The Bishop’s Waltham Rotary Club asked us to produce the carnival programme for 2014.

February: We started running adverts for Discover on Breeze Radio. A taste of celebrity we felt, although we’ve not quite made it into “Hello!” Yet. April: Melanie’s fantastic rallying of local businesses for the programme meant that more than £1000 extra was added to the Rotary pot for local charities this year, compared to 2013.

May: Our first issue of the Bishop’s Waltham Carnival Programme was released. We were like proud parents!

NEXT ISSUE: DIARY DATES

September: We launched a new magazine covering Hythe & Lyndhurst (our 11th title). We were like proud parents with too many children.

Editorial copy deadline: 12 January Advertisement copy deadline: 15 January Distributed: Drop 1 w/c 2 February Drop 2 w/c 23 February

October: Izzy Ewen joined the Discover team and even after a few weeks has proved to be worth her weight in gold. Not that she weighs a lot, but you get my drift.

DISTRIBUTION Discover Meon Valley is published every other month and distributed by Royal Mail to two alternating areas. This edition goes to homes in SO32 1 (Bishop’s Waltham) and PO17 5 (Wickham). A few weeks later it will be arriving at homes in SO32 2 (Swanmore, Shedfield & Curdridge) and PO17 6. This is around 10,600 homes and businesses over the two distributions.

150,000 circulation 11 local editions

Tania

ROMSEY CHANDLERS FORD

SOUTHAMPTON

HYTHE &

LYNDHURST

ITCHEN VALLEY BITTERNE & WEST END

Seriously though, The Movember Foundation is about saving and improving the lives of men affected by prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health problems. If any charitable soul out there would consider even a small donation, it would be really appreciated – details below.

Until next time

WINCHESTER

TOTTON & ASHURST

November: Our distribution manager (and my husband) Kevin joined in the annual Movember campaign by growing his first ever moustache. 30th November couldn’t come round fast enough for him (or for Basil Brush who wanted his tail back!).

MEON VALLEY LOCKS HEATH FAREHAM

Melanie Tinson & Tania Houston

Donate online http://mobro.co/kevyhouston or write a cheque to 'Movember', referencing Kevin’s registration ID: 11444977 and mailing it to: Movember Europe, PO Box 3, Diss, IP98 1HH

Romsey Chandlers Ford Southampton Totton Winchester Bitterne Itchen Valley Meon Valley Fareham Locks Heath Hythe & Lyndhurst 4

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ADVERTISER FEATURE

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Plantation shutters have become very popular over the last few years due to their amazing versatility according to Mike Schnuppe, owner of The Great Shutter Co., and looking around Hampshire there is definitely an increasing number of homes

with stylish shutters dressing their windows. With many homes being street facing you can see why. Shutters allow windows to be dressed with separate shutter panel sections and each of these can have the louvres adjusted for amazing privacy and light control.

Mike informed us that “Shutters are great for bay windows where homes are street facing but they are also extremely practical for dressing patio and bi-folding doors or those awkward shaped windows where one is never sure what to do.”

Mike Schnuppe

from their annual January sale discounts. So to arrange a free, home consultation call Mike on 01962 710807.

Studies, such as those by Glasgow Caledonian University, have also shown that shutters are amazing at providing extra heat insulation and with heating bills continually on the rise this is a benefit that consumers really value.

The Great Shutter Co. are offering free home design consultations now and customers will benefit

Mike has given us his top 5 reasons to buy shutters but for a more detailed top 10 visit www.thegreatshutterco.uk/top10.

• Amazing light control • Ultimate privacy • Insulating – 2nd only to secondary glazing • Sound proofing • Easy to clean

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Christmas Music Quiz

Roger the Engine

Bishops Waltham Rotary Ramblings December 2014 Just a short report this month from your local Rotary Club this month. Thank you to everybody who supplied shoeboxes this year, the total number we received is 216. Just think of all those happy faces when they open them, well done everyone!

Arrangements are well in hand for our usual Christmas trip around the villages with Roger the Engine and Santa together with his crew of Pixies. The list below tells you when he will make his appearance.

Most visits take place between 6pm and 8pm, except 5th, 13th and 20th which are from around 10am to 6pm

Monday

1st

Horton Heath

Tuesday

2nd

Fair oak

Wednesday

3rd

Fair Oak

Friday

5th

Hedge End (Sainsbury’s)

Tuesday

9th

Newtown area B.W.

Wednesday

10th

Waltham Chase

Saturday

13th

Wickham Square

Tuesday

16th

B.W. Oak Road etc

Wednesday

17th

B.W. Pondside

Saturday

20th

B.W. Budgens & High St

May we at Bishops Waltham Rotary Club wish you all Seasons greetings and may 2015 be a good year for all.

1. Cliff Richard’s hit single The Millenium Prayer featured the words of the Lord’s Prayer sung to the tune of which traditional song?

2. According to the first verse of the song Santa Claus Is Coming To Town, what two things had you “better not” do?

3. Which singer from Band Aid’s original version of Do They Know It’s Christmas has a stage name that is mentioned in the lyrics of the song?

4. Who kept Take That’s Babe off the Christmas number one spot in 1993?

5. According to the lyrics of the song Fairytale Of New York by The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl, what song were the boys of the NYPD choir singing?

6. Which famous Christmas song was originally called One Horse Open Sleigh?

7. Which war was John Lennon referring to in his song Happy Xmas (War Is Over)?

8. In the Christmas carol Good King Wenceslas, did the title character last look out on the 24th, 25th or 26th of December?

9. In 2008, Once Upon A Christmas Song was a hit single for Geraldine McQueen, as played by comedian Peter Kay. Which famous singer co-wrote this song with Peter Kay? 10. Of the 364 gifts given in total in the song The Twelve Days Of Christmas, how many are birds?

Answers: Page 45

8

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GARDENING

The Truly ‘Green’ Garden

by Pippa Greenwood www.pippagreenwood.com

Well, it’s time to say good-bye to the year 2014 as 2015 is well and truly upon us. This is the month when it is really worth spending a bit more time than usual thinking about the year just gone and the one ahead. What are you going to do in your garden in the year ahead, what plans and dreams do you have? What changes would you like to make?

There are so many ways in which you can plot and scheme about all that your garden could have to offer in 2015, but there’s one thing I would ask you to consider: take the plunge, ring the changes and ‘Go Organic’, More and more gardeners have decided that they really want their gardens to be pesticide free zones, concentrating on natural methods of pest control, good gardening and the use of natural fertilising materials rather than chemical feeds. And they do it because it works and makes life so much better for the other less powerful creatures and plants we share our space with.

Since we moved to our Hampshire garden nearly twenty years ago, I have kept it completely organic and believe me, it really is not difficult. Weed control can certainly be harder as there is no resorting to herbicides such as glyphosate, but if your garden has been looked after and doesn’t have too many persistent weeds, even that should not be too difficult. If you do have an existing problem then make weeding a regular part of your gardening time and you’ll be pleasantly surprised how speedily you start to get on top of it, and maybe even feel the need to spend less time in the gym and more time out in the fresh year

10

getting a seriously natural and healthy work out completely free of charge. The rest is easy!

True, organic gardening does take a bit more planning and forethought than gardening that is reliant on an armoury of chemicals. If you grow vegetables you will need to ensure that you rotate your crops. Just approximately divide the space you have into three or four chunks and then ensure that each year you grow related crops together and then the following year, each group of crops are moved in to a new plot.

It also pays to ensure that you really do garden as ‘well’ as you can, avoiding too many short cuts and taking the plant’s health and vigour as a prime consideration. In any part of the garden you need to try to choose plants that really are suited to the site as those grown in unsuitable conditions will struggle and be more prone to disease and pest attack. Don’t forget the old gardening adage, ‘Right Plant, Right Place’.

Regular patrols to find problems, so that they can be caught at the early stages and dealt with promptly, mean fewer problems in the long-term and should ensure that you catch an infestation of

pests or a disease outbreak before it gets too bad. Often picking off pests or badly infested or infected leaves can be sufficient to prevent a problem developing.

Sprays of certain kinds are ‘allowed’ (those based on soft soap to control certain pests, copper based fungicides to control diseases etc) but most organic gardeners prefer to avoid them altogether. But they are there if you need them, although I find no need for them.

Barriers and traps are really useful – I am a great fan of horticultural fleece. Placed over a crop such as calabrese from the moment you plant it out, you should be able to ward off all the common pests including caterpillars, cabbage root fly and aphids. Traps such as submerged beakers of old beer or milk to catch slugs, sticky yellow cards

to trap flying pests, all work well.

And where would I be without sticky backed copper tape and copper rings to keep my veg crops slug free? Of course for many pests there are also biological controls available – to keep vine weevils and slugs at bay in the garden, to stop ants driving you insane, to sort out pesky caterpillars and to make your lawn free from leatherjackets, plus a whole range of controls to stop greenhouse pests such as red spider mite, whitefly and mealy bugs.

Keeping the soil in good condition is a must and if you don’t already have a compost bin or heap, get on and make or buy one straight away. Garden compost is a fabulous soil conditioner and is packed full of nutrients…..all at little or no cost.

Some of these things will add

to your gardening budget, but remember that you will not need to spend your hard earned cash on chemical fertilisers, pesticides or spraying equipment, and of course you won’t need to spend time applying the sprays.

The choice is up to you, but I strongly recommend it, for a whole host of reasons, only some of which I have mentioned here.

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com and make veg growing easy with ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ – Pippa sends your chosen veg plants to you at a perfect time for planting and each week emails advice and tips for getting the best results; plus lots of great barriers and biological controls.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE ADVERTISEMENT

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It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services.

Managing Director Justin Friel feels that it’s all about service. ‘Our product is simple. If your double glazing is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving

people money, although that obviously helps.

Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.’

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17

FINANCE

The Pros and Cons of Equity Release

By Ann Haldon www.cornerstonewebcontent.com

Equity Release unlocks some of the value in your home, providing a taxfree lump sum or cash facility from which to draw a regular income.

It is a way to fund your retirement without having to move from your existing home, and is available to homeowners over the age of fifty-five.

Equity release products can be broken down into: • Lifetime mortgages • Home reversion schemes Some lifetime mortgages require a monthly repayment whilst others provide a lump sum that reduces the value of the house over time. The basic premise is that you can take a lump sum, draw a regular income, or both.

So far these are all clear benefits, but there are considerable downsides to equity release that need careful consideration.

If there is existing borrowing secured against the property, this will need to be paid off using the equity released.

The first step in deciding whether equity release is for you, is to find a professional financial advisor with specific knowledge and experience. The advisor and lender must both be regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, and the lender should be a member of the Equity Release Council.

Lifetime Mortgage How it works A lifetime mortgage allows you to borrow money against the value of your home, with interest added to the total each month. There are no repayments to meet - you still own your home but the value of it decreases due to the escalating mortgage.

In the event of your death or going into care, the house is sold, the loan repaid and 18

residual monies paid to you or your beneficiaries. Most lifetime mortgages provide a guarantee guarding against negative equity should the housing market fall.

Types of lifetime mortgage Roll-up: interest is added to the loan, which is repaid on death or if you move into care. There are no monthly repayments to make.

Interest-only: you receive a lump sum and pay the interest on a monthly basis. Interest may be fixed or variable, and the original loan amount is repaid on sale of the house.

Fixed repayment: you take a lump sum from the house, but there are no monthly interest payments to make. A repayment sum is calculated by the lender and agreed with you when the loan is taken out. This fixed amount is repaid on death or if you move to a care home.

One of the first decisions to make is whether you want to take a lump sum, a regular income, or a mixture of the two. It’s worth considering the lender’s stability if you choose to take payments at intervals rather than as a lump sum. When Northern Rock collapsed in 2007, their equity release customers were unable to draw any further money from their home equity loan when it was transferred to a new company.

On the other hand, you may feel there’s no point taking out a large initial sum and placing a proportion of it into a savings account which pays lower interest

than that on your loan.

In summary, what are the potential pros and cons of taking out a lifetime mortgage?

Pros • Unlocks the value in your home • Several choices of how the money is taken • Many lenders offer a ‘no negative equity’ guarantee • You can stay in your own home

Cons • May affect your eligibility for benefits • Can be expensive in the longterm (there may be other less expensive options) • They are complex financial products which require professional guidance • Reduced inheritance for your beneficiaries

Home Reversion Scheme How it works Home reversion means that you

sell all or part of your home to a company, which gives you a cash lump sum for its value, or allows you to take a regular income.

Some schemes let you live in your home rent-free, while others charge a reduced rent. This arrangement continues until you die or move into a care home, at which point the house is sold and the loan repaid.

‘inheritance guarantee’ to safeguard a proportion of your home for beneficiaries • Many schemes allow you to live in your home rent-free

Cons • You generally only receive between 20%-60% of the market value of your property • These schemes can be costly to set up • They are complex to understand in detail

Detailed financial and legal advice is essential when considering a product such as this. As with a lifetime mortgage, you’ll be advised to discuss it with your family before proceeding. They need to know where they stand financially, particularly if it will affect their inheritance.

Pros and cons of home reversion schemes

Pros • A useful way to get money from your property without having to move out • You may be able to make an

Potential costs for both forms of equity release • Legal fees • Valuation costs • Lender administration fee • Financial advisor fees • Buildings insurance The equity released from your home can be used for a range of purposes. Some people use the money for home improvements, others for holidays or to help their children onto the property ladder.

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RECIPE

Paneer and Mixed Vegetable Coconut Curry

Serves 4

This filling vegetable curry can be made with any mix of vegetables you have to hand. Serve with steamed rice or crusty bread and some cooling natural yogurt.

Ingredients:

1.

Bring a pan of water to the boil. Add the carrots and boil for 5 minutes until almost tender adding the cauliflower and broccoli florets for the last 2 minutes.

Drain well and set aside.

2.

Heat the oil in a large deep frying pan over a medium heat. Add the paneer and mushrooms and stir-fry over a high heat for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

3.

Add the onion to the pan and fry very gently for about 10 minutes until soft and golden. Add the garlic, ginger and chilli and fry for a further 2-3 minutes then stir in the Thai paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4.

Pour in the coconut milk and bring to the boil then reduce the heat and return the paneer and mushrooms to the pan along with the drained vegetables, peas and tomatoes. Stir well and simmer gently for 4-5 minutes. Add the lime juice and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Serve garnished with sliced red chilli pepper and oregano leaves.

• 2 small carrots, peeled and thinly sliced • 100g small cauliflower florets • 100g small broccoli florets • 1 tbsp vegetable oil • 225g paneer cheese, cubed • 150g mushrooms, wiped and sliced • 1 large onion, peeled and chopped • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed • 2cm piece root ginger, peeled and grated • 1 red chilli pepper, deseeded and chopped, plus extra sliced chilli to garnish • 1 tbsp Thai red curry paste • 400ml can coconut milk • 150g frozen peas • 2 tomatoes, roughly chopped • Squeeze of lime juice • Fresh oregano leaves, to garnish

Ready in 45 minutes 24

Paneer is an Indian vegetarian cheese which has a firm texture and goes particularly well with spices and garlic, chilli and ginger. You can use drained and cubed tofu instead, if preferred.

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29

Puzzle Page Pictograms

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11

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3 words

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25 30

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Across 1. Similar things placed in order (6) 7. Note in music equal to half a minim (8) 8. Bluish-white metallic element (4) 10. Animal hunted for food or sport (4) 11. Fortified wine mainly from southern Spain (6) 12. City in western Germany (5) 14. Nasal opening (7) 17. Daybook (7) 18. Celtic language (5) 21. Collection of star systems (6) 23. Former communist country (inits) (4) 25. Fourth planet from the sun (4) 26. International ___, imaginary boundary which separates time zones (4,4)

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GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

Answers: Page 45

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And Another Thing...

The Winged Chariot

by Tom Hughes I dread January. Not because of the long winter nights or postholiday credit card bills (although they aren’t much fun), I hate New Year because that’s when the Mondeo has its dreaded MOT. Could I squeeze another year’s motoring out of the old darling?

The mechanic’s intake of breath was so sharp I thought he was going to hyperventilate. MOT fail!

Now, I’m sure that to Jeremy Clarkson my Mondeo Ghia X is a tired old rep mobile, good only for slogging up and down the M6 driven by some dull-eyed paperclip salesman. But whenever I nestle behind the wheel (in my half leather heated seat) I am not in a Ford, rather I am in a beautiful Winged Chariot, perfect for whisking Sarah away to distant magical places, like Southport.

The mechanic shook his head as the bonnet slammed shut.

Sarah put a comforting hand on my shoulder. It was time to face facts; the old chap had to go. And that meant only one thing - a visit to the showroom to lock horns with a car salesman.

Colin was an affable chap. As wide as he was tall, he possessed a big red face and the worst fitting suit I had ever seen. He came waddling towards us with such a swagger in his gait I thought for moment he was going to 36

announce “I’ve come for ma Boy.” He shook my hand, nodded to my car and said, “That your Deo? Great car....in its day.”

“In its day? Cheeky -” I was about to give him a mouthful when Sarah interrupted me, “Shut up Tom. Now what about this one?”

Sarah pointed to a new five door hatchback. Colin beamed.”Want to take her for a spin sir?”

“Her? That’s a bit 1970s isn’t it? Why can’t I take “him” for a spin?” I said indignantly.

“Very well sir, I’ll get the trade plates.”

He glanced at Sarah, shook his head in sympathy, and handed me the keys.

With Sarah sat demurely in the back we eased out of the showroom as Colin explained all about this fantastic motor.

“Now Tom, this model is in the Elite trim which means that every conceivable toy is on this car.

Everything you can think of as an extra, this baby’s got it.”

I stared at the dashboard.

“Has it got Sat Nav?” “No.” “Climate control?”

“Er, no.”

“Rear parking sensors?”

Suddenly, Colin’s eyes lit up.

“Rear parking sensors? Tom, can you just pull over a second and

put her in reverse gear for me?”

I stopped the car and engaged reverse as Colin jumped out and ran to the back of the motor. I looked in the rear view mirror and saw Colin waggling his hips and waving his arms about.

“Tom, what is he doing?”

“I’ve really no idea.”

After this strange display was over, he trotted up to the driver’s side, stuck his sweaty face through the open window and asked hopefully “Now Tom, did you hear a beep!

Beep! Beep!?”

“No.” Back in the car and now staring straight ahead, Colin, through gritted teeth said, “Drive on please.”

After a while, we found ourselves on a narrow country road where Colin, with a conspiratorial wink whispered, “Now then Tom, do you want to see how she performs through the twisty bits?”

Too embarrassed to ask what that actually meant, I smiled and began trundling along the B road, nervously creeping round an endless procession of blind bends. Exasperated, Colin began shuffling about in his seat.

“Now Tom, can’t you feel it? She wants to go, come on, give her her head!”

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LETTING AGENTS

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ESTATE AGENTS

I looked in the mirror at Sarah, who shrugged her shoulders. Colin was insistent, “Put your foot down, let’s see what this baby can do!”

The engine whined as I stamped on the pedal. The bonnet lifted and the car lurched forward as around the corner we went - “Tally Ho!” Later, after Colin had exchanged insurance details with a rather miserable looking farmer, Sarah leaned down to inspect the damage.

“Well a tinny thing like this is always going to come off worse against a tractor.”

Waiting with Colin for that tow truck to take us back to the garage was the longest hour of my life.

And so, after shelling out a small fortune on a double-wishbone something or other, my beloved Winged Chariot was back on the road.

I took Sarah for a spin. I turned up the climate control to maximum. “Right Sarah darling, shall we see what this baby can do?”

“Tom, just keep your eyes on the road, OK? And Tom?” “Yes my sweet?”

“Keep a look out for tractors?”

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LOCAL CLUBS & GROUPS HOBBIES Curdridge Amateur Drama Group Productions are twice a year – spring and autumn. Rehearsals – Mondays 7.45pm and Thursdays 7.30pm at the Reading Rooms, Curdridge. From time to time we run workshops and other social events. Phone Teresa 01489 895170 for more information. www. cadg.hampshire.org.uk DRAMA GROUP Every Monday at Jubilee Hall 4pm to 5:15pm ages 7 to 12, £60 per term.

Call Ryan on 01962 844 600 ext 208 or ryan.jones@theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk UPHAM PLAYERS DRAMA We are a friendly local drama group with members from age 8 – 80! We put on 2 to 3 productions a year and usually rehearse on Monday evenings and Sunday afternoons at the Upham Village Hall. We also have several social events during the year including Quiz and Chips and informal play readings. Mo Peters on 01489 891307 or mo_peters@ o2.co.uk. www.uphamvillagehall.org.uk/ upham-players Bishops Waltham Photographic Society All photographers welcome from beginner to advanced. We meet 1st Thursday in the month at St Peters Church Hall, Bishops Waltham. Please contact Dawn Blight 01489 691155 or dawn.blight1@ntlworld.com JUBILEE WRITERS Thursday (Twice Monthly) 2pm – 4pm Stables Hall, Bishops Waltham Elizabeth Watt 01489 892224 MEON VALLEY FLOWER CLUB Demos, workshops at Meonstoke Village Hall. Ann Hammant 01730 829469 GARDENING CLUB Memberships only £6 call Keith Fry 01489 893755 40

WICKHAM SPINNERS & WEAVERS Mondays 11-3pm Wickham Church Room Learn the ancient craft of spinning yarn and enjoy being creative and keeping warm at the same time. Yarn spinning is environmentally friendly, the wheel is powered by the feet and there is only a smooth rhythmic sound as the flywheel spins, encouraging relaxation and enjoyment and the chance to chat.

Wickham Spinners would welcome new members, experienced or beginners.

Our members also do other crafts, such as beading, pottery, sewing, knitting and crochet to name just a few and you would be welcome to bring your own craft to the group if you don’t want to spin. Georgina (01329 833422), Alison (01329 281407) or Val (01489 896140)

SOCIAL THE MONDAY CLUB 3rd Monday of each month The Wickham Centre, Mill Lane PO17 5AL Fun activities & quizzes for the over 55’s.

Socialise with friends, listen to guest speakers and enjoy a 2-course lunch for £4. www.wickhamcentre.org.uk UNIVERSITY OF THE 3RD AGE Tuesday twice monthly 1.30–3.30 Wickham Community Hall Contact 01329 833384 LUNCH CLUB Every Monday Jubilee Hall 1 - 2pm Christine Argyle 01489 894054 Tuesday Gwyn West 01489 891663 Thurs Gill Stainer 01489 893384 BW YOUNG FARMERS CLUB 14-26 yrs – Thurs Anne 860236 Swanmore Baby & Toddler Group Every Tuesday (term-time only) 10am11.30am. Swanmore Village Hall Contact Layla Oates 07837 473590 LUNCH CLUB 11:30am Wed, Church Room, Wickham Centre, www.wickhamcentre.org

SPIRITUAL THE HEALING TRUST Healing Centre, Wickham Community Centre, Wickham. Every 4th Saturday of the month 10am til 12.30pm noon.

Marjorie Nutland 01329 832637 SOUL CONNECTIONS – SPIRITUAL GROUP Priory Park Hall, Bishops Waltham. 3rd Sunday each Month, £5 Sue Murray 01489 799740 www.suemurrayhealing.co.uk

Positive Living Law of Attraction Group First Wednesday of every month. 7-9pm.

Curdridge. Contact Carolyne 07825 727331. £8. www.carolynebennett.com WICKHAM WEEKLY HEALING CLINIC Thursdays, 2pm to 3:30pm The Community Centre Spiritual health is a complementary (not alternative) natural treatment. We are not associated with any particular religion and respect individuals own interpretation of the natural healing source.

SUPPORT Meon Valley Carers Group The Meon Valley Carers Group is a support group for the carers of people with Dementia. We meet every month for a pub lunch and also for a support group meeting. Cared for are welcome.

Phone Debbie on 01489 895444 Mon or Thurs 9.00-13.00 for details.

MACULAR SUPPORT GROUP Second Monday of every month 1.00 to 3.00pm United Reformed Church, 18 Osborn Road South, Fareham PO16 7DG The group meets to provide friendship and support for fellow sufferers of the most common form of sight impairment and to help them understand macular disease, the treatments and services available and ways of coping with central vision loss. Sighted spouses and carers also very welcome. 01329 231356 david.fb.kett@talk21.com Home Start Mother & Toddler Friday 9am to 12pm Wickham Centre, wickhamcentre.org.uk

FOR CHILDREN SCOUTS www.meonvalleyscouting.org.uk Beaver Scouts 6-8, Cub Scouts 8-10, Scouts 10-14, Explorer Scouts14-18, Scout Network 18-25, plus Adult volunteers (18+) are always required as supporters. For further information, including Scouting in other areas, please contactus@meonvalleyscouting.org.uk MEON VALLEY GIRL GUIDING Rainbows aged 5 to 7 years, Brownies aged 7 to 10 years, Guides aged 10 to 14 years and Senior Section aged 14 to 25 years. If anyone is interested in joining or volunteering - visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/interested or call 0800 1 69 59 01 for details of venues near you.

- Meon Valley

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LOCAL WHAT’S ON Pond design 4 dec, 7:30pm droxford village Hall, so32 3PB Come along and find out about pond design and other features for your garden. Mrs Sandy Worth.

01489 877631 caroL service 7 dec, 3pm Park Place centre, wickham Po17 5Ha In the Main Chapel. Everyone cordially invited. 01329 833043 wicKHaM cHristMas fair 7 dec, 11am to 3pm the wickham centre, Mill Lane Po17 5aL With over 50 stallholders present, it will be a fun day for all! Refreshments on sale. www. wickhamcentre.org.uk fatHer cHristMas sPeciaL 7 dec, 11am to 4pm Bursledon Brickworks, swanwick so31 7HB A special visit to the museum to see Father Christmas in his workshop. The trip includes the museum, activities and refreshments. Booking is essential for this event - we want to make it really special for you. www. bursledonbrickworks.org. uk (B) indian cooKerY cLasses 9-11 dec Park Place centre, wickham Po17 5Ha Sister Judith teaches you everything you need to know about Indian cookery. Anyone welcome. £15 per day (includes lunch).

01329 833043 (B) 42

cHristMas tree festivaL concerts 12th dec, 7.30pm Ben Smith (tenor) with Julia Hamon (soprano) and the Larkin String Quartet.

St Barnabas’ Church, Swanmore. Adults: £15.

Under 18s: £10. Includes a glass of wine or soft drink.

Tickets: Jan on 01489 894266 or Tony on 01489 892581 afternoon tea witH fatHer cHristMas 12, 20 and 21 dec, 2:30pm Manor farm country Park, Bursledon Father Christmas will be visiting the farm for Afternoon Tea between 2.30 and 3.30pm. Pop in for a chat and bring along your letters to Santa and post them in the special farmhouse post box. Normal farm admission applies. 01489 787055 concerts at swanMore 12 dec: tenor, soprano and string quartet 13 dec: the eastleigh fusion choir Making a return visit to Swanmore, after the huge success of his solos at the Pontypridd Choir concert in June, is Ben Smith – the outstanding young tenor who sings with Only Men Aloud. He’s bringing with him an established String Quartet and soprano Julia Hamon who, like Ben, is studying at the Royal College of Music in London.

On the 13th, the vibrant community group of Eastleigh Fusion Choir will be making its fourth appearance at St Barnabas. They will sing a mixture of popular songs as well as semi-sacred and Christmas music.

Tickets: 12th - £15 adult/£10 u18, 13th £5 each including a glass of wine or soft drink. Mulled wine and mince pies will be available. Either day call Jan 01489 894266 or Tony 01489 892581. For the Fusion concert only , Dinah 01489 896967.

Part proceeds will support outreach by St Barnabas’ Church.

See www.stbarnabas. org.uk

titcHfieLd’s cHristMas tree festivaL 12-14 dec, 10am to 6pm st. Peter’s church Po14 4ag Beautifully decorated trees.

Buy original Christmas gifts and goodies and hear seasonal music.

Refreshments. Raffle. Titchfield Puppets, West Hill Community Choir and pianist, Charles Timberlake perform. The Festival ends with the Traditional Nine Lessons and Carols at 6pm on 14 Dec. 01329 846171 Panto - JacK 12-24 dec the Berry theatre, Hedge end so30 4eJ Fee Fi Fo Fum! Giving this classic tale a contemporary twist, this enchanting family show serves up a cheeky does of fun. Perfect for ages 4 plus and their grown-ups.

02380 652333 Panto - snow wHite 12 dec-4 Jan ferneham Hall, fareham Stefan Booth (Hollyoaks & Eastenders) stars as Prince Simon in this classic tale of Snow White and the 7 Dwarves. 01329 231942 cHristMas tree festivaL concerts 13th dec, 7.30pm the eastleigh fusion choir.

St Barnabas’ Church, Swanmore.

Tickets: £5. Mulled wine and mince pies available for a donation.

Tickets: Dinah on 01489 896967 JoHnnY casH revisted 13 dec ashcroft centre, fareham Po16 7dr Semi-biographical show that spans five decades of Johnny Cash’s musical career. All the hits including ‘I Walk The Line’ ‘Ring of Fire’ ‘A Boy Named Sue’ ‘Folsom Prison Blues’ ‘A Thing Called Love’. £16.00 / £15.00 concessions. 01329 223100 cHristMas craft & gift MarKet 14 dec, 10:30am to 3pm gosport Leisure centre, forest way Po13 0zX A splendid array of crafts and gifts on display by local artists,

crafters, hobbyists and small independent businesses. Free entry. 07540153141 LaKe of LigHts service 19 dec, 5pm canoe Lake, southsea Po4 9rg The Light up a Life service gives those who have lost loved ones the opportunity to come together to remember and cherish the many happy memories of their lives. The service includes carols and readings. Lights will be floated on the lake to represent all those being remembered.

Open to anyone who is bereaved, not just those who have had contact with The Rowans Hospice. 02392 238532. www. rowanshospice. co.uk Panto - treasure isLand 19-24 dec the Point, eastleigh so50 9de The Point Youth Theatre - The race is on to find Captain Flint’s buried treasure! Robert Louis Stevenson’s swashbuckling novel thrillingly to life in all its sea-fairing glory.

Perfect for scallywags aged 5 years and up. 02380 652333 raMBLers - cHristMas daY waLK - wincHester 25 dec, 10am start at chesil street car Park so23 9LP Moderate 7 mile walk. Optional drink and quiz afterwards at the Black Boy Pub. 07736731792. Grid Ref: SU485291 raMBLers - BoXing daY circuLar – BisHoPs waLtHaM 26 dec, 9:45am Park at Station Road to start by the railway gate SO32 1DP Moderate 11 mile walk.

07561386286. Grid Ref: SU552172 raMBLers – uPHaM circuLar 2 Jan, 7pm start at upton village duck pond. so32 JH Moderate 5 mile walk on quiet,

country lanes. Bring a torch.

07736731792 Grid Ref: SU540206 raMBLers – afternoon waLK to Meon sHore 4 Jan, 1:30 to 4pm Park in the car park by the titchfield community centre Po14 4aB Leisurely 5 miles fairly level walk from Titchfield village down to the shore around Titchfield Haven. Some of the paths may be rather muddy so boots are recommended. 02392 350456 Grid Ref: SU541060 raMBLers - Morning waLK aBove droXford 6 Jan, 10am to 1pm start at verge parking at the 5-ways junction on shepherds down above droxford so32 1gB Moderate 6 mile walk to follow a track down to Exton and south to Corhampton and Meonstoke. Cross back over the River Meon at Droxford and back up the valley. Good views across to Old Winchester Hill.

One section of rough fairly steep descent on a stony track.02392 37607 Grid Ref: SU594192 gosPort Jazz cLuB 7 & 21 Jan, 8-10:30pm gosport & fareham rugby football club Po12 2He (7th) An evening of traditional Jazz (21st) The Louisiana Jazz Men. Members £8, Guests £10. 02392 693988 Panto - roBin Hood 8-11 Jan the Point, eastleigh Join the legendary Robin Hood with his Merry Men and the beautiful Maid Marian as they rob from the rich and give to the poor in their quest to stop the evil Sheriff of Nottingham. Presented by the Mountbatten Players. £11/£9/£8/£6.50. 02380 652333

terrain with resplendent scenic vistas of the Solent and IOW. 01489 573708. Grid Ref: SU489062 wedding fair eXtravaganza 11 Jan, 11am to 4pm st. Mary’s stadium, southampton so14 5fP Held in the Mike Channon Suite and the Terry Paine Suite. This is an excellent and ideal venue for the 70+ stands that make up this Southampton Wedding Fair. Fashion Shows at 12 and 2pm. Free Entry Free, Goody Bag & Wedding Planner for every Bride to Be! 0800 1777080 JeffreY Bernard is unweLL 15-17 Jan, 7:30pm ashcroft arts centre, fareham Po16 7dX Based on the life and writings of Jeffrey Bernard. The well-known journalist and Spectator writer awakes to find himself locked in at his favourite pub, The Coach and Horses in Soho. He uses the occasion to share anecdotes of his life with the audience and in flashback form. Contains adult themes and strong language. £10 each (no concessions) 01329 223100 sinBad tHe saiLor 28-31 Jan, 7:30pm (2:30pm sat Matinee) Bishopstoke Memorial Hall, riverside so50 6Lq Sinbad’s 8th Voyage!

Presented by the Bishopstoke Players. £7/£5 Includes refreshments.

02380 693032

raMBLers waLK – warsasH HooK circuLar 10 Jan, 1:30pm start at car Park next to the one stop in warsash Brisk pace - 8.5 miles of varied 43

Live Local Think Local Local businesses are part of your community ACCOUNTING SERVICES SC Miller Ltd AERIALS Pure Digital Aerial & Satellites appliance repair JP Appliances baking & cake equipment/supplies Cake Craft

Bathrooms See Plumbing BEAUTY Changes Clinic of Excellence Blinds & CURTAINS Solent Blinds The Great Shutter Co. Waterside Blinds Builder R & G Gamblin General Builders cafe Chase Cafe CARPET & FLOORING Floor Coverings Southern Chimney Sweep Pebble Beach Sweeps Rainbow Chimney Sweep

Every issue of Discover is full of interesting articles, useful information and fun stuff too, delivered through your door free of charge, made possible by the financial support of its advertisers.

Please support local businesses who promote themselves in Discover. They are ready to serve you and they want your business. We’d appreciate it if you’d mention Discover when contacting advertisers from this issue.

23 41 41 25

27 29 7 5 15 25 33

41 41 Toast Chimney Lining & Sweep Specialist 34 Computer Services Home Computer Help 23 Plates PC 21 dancewear Ballet Pointe 21 Double GlazinG Inst/Repairs Britannia Windows 22 Cloudy2Clear 17 EDUCATION Barton Peveril Sixth Form College 20 University of Portsmouth 20 Electrician Assure Electrical Ltd 16 B.Privett Electrical Ltd 6

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Fencing Colourfence 13 Financial Services Newman Cozens Financial Mg. 19 Redwood Financial 47/48 Garage doors Garage Doors 4U 22/38 Garage Services Abbey Tyres 35 Independent VW 39 Stride & Sons Ltd 34 Wickham Tyre & Auto Centre 32 Garden Design & ServiceS Arbor-Call Tree Surgeons 11 Colourfence 13 Hambrooks

12 Jon Curtis Tree Surgery & Garden M. 13 Neil Richmond Tree & Hedge Services 14 Woodleigh Landscapes 11 Hairdresser Spindles Hair Design 29 health services Home Start 29 KITCHENS Dream Doors 9 legal services Allens Solicitors 21 SJP Wills & Probate 20 logs Ash Farm 16 mobility Ableworld 3 pet services Wagging Tails 14 PLASTERER Plasterforce 41 Plumbing Services (including bathroom installation and gas and boiler services) see also Property Maintenance Bespoke Bathing Company 15

Carefree Living 37 Gair Gair 33 GE Harding & Sons Ltd 31 Heatworks Heating & Plumbing Ltd 6 J. & D. Humphrey Ltd 23 TP Watts 13 Printer Warwick Printing Company 22 Property Maintenance DA Construction 41 Direct Roofing Services 41 Hire A Handy Hero 34 House Worx 41 Loft Services 33 Prestige Property Services 15 R & G Gamblin General Builders 15 property services Andrew Ross Property Agents 37 radio The Breeze 28 SCHOOL Barton Pveril Sixth Form College 20 shutters The Great Shutter Co. 7 Waterside Blinds 5 Storage Barn Store 38 Tree Surgery See Garden Design & Services UPHOLSTERY Pont Furnishings 31 Veterinary Shield Veterinary Centre 14 WINDOW REPAIR Cloudy2Clear 17

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Fareham Health Centre

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Hemming & Partners, Lower Lane, Bishop’s Waltham

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West Meon Surgery, Doctor's Lane, West Meon

01730 829666

Wickham Group Surgery, Station Road, Wickham

01329 833121

COUNCILS Bishops Waltham 01489 892323 parishclerk@bishopswalthamparishcouncil.co.uk www.bishopswalthamparish council.co.uk Upham uphampc@homecall.co.uk 01489 860236 Durley durleypc@homecall.co.uk 01489 860236 Soberton norman@soberton.org.uk 01489 877378 Droxford clerk.droxford@parish.hants.co.uk 01489 877470 Shedfield 01329 830060 shedfieldparish@btconnect.com www.shedfieldparishcouncil.org.uk Swanmore 01489 890651 clerk@swanmoreparishcouncil.org.uk www.swanmoreparishcouncil.org.uk West Meon Parish Council 02392 571720 clerk.westmeon@parish.hants.gov Wickham Council 01329 835019 clerkwickham@parish.hants.gov.uk Boarhunt clerkboarhuntpc@btinternet.com 01489 891321 Southwick & Widley swpc@logosoft.biz 023 8046 3228 Corhampton & Meonstoke 01489 891660

Bishop’s Waltham Infants Bishop’s Waltham Juniors Curdridge Primary Droxford Juniors Durley Primary Kings School Meonstoke Newtown Infants St. Johns Primary Swanmore Primary Swanmore College Upham Primary West Meon C of E Primary School Wickham Primary Wyvern Technology College

01489 01489 01489 01489 01489 01962 01489 01329 01329 01489 01489 01489 01730 01329 02380

892375 892368 782613 877537 860207 861161 877568 833161 833141 894555 892256 860355 829213 833065 692679

LIBRARIES Bishop’s Waltham Library, Bank Street, 0845 603 5631 www.hants.gov.uk/library/bishopswaltham Mon/Thur: Closed, Tue: 2pm – 7pm, Wed/Fri: 10am – 5pm, Sat: 9.30am – 1pm Wickham Square Mobile Library, every Wed 9:20 to 12:20 Knowle Village Mobile Library, first Friday of the month, 10:45 to 11:45

CITIZENS ADVICE Bishops Waltham (Mon/Wed/Fri) 08444 111306 Outreach at Wickham and Denmead (Thurs) call BW for info advice@winchesterdistrictcab.org.uk

Useful Numbers PUZZLE ANSWERS Hidato

Pictograms 1. Downstairs 2. Painting by numbers 3. Talk is cheap

general Knowledge crossword Across: 1 Series, 7 Crotchet, 8 Zinc, 10 Game, 11 Sherry, 12 Essen, 14 Nostril, 17 Journal, 18 Welsh, 21 Galaxy, 23 USSR, 25 Mars, 26 Date Line, 27 Pewter.

Down: 1 Sizzle, 2 Rung, 3 Screw, 4 Pot shot, 5 Acre, 6 Near miss, 9 Career, 13 Stowaway, 15 Theism, 16 Katydid, 19 Hussar, 20 Julep, 22 Amen, 24 Raft.

fun quiz - christmas Music 1. Auld Lang Syne, 2. Cry and Pout (“You’d better watch out; you’d better not cry; you’d better not pout; I’m telling you why”), 3. Sting (“Where the only water flowing is the bitter sting of tears”), 4. Mr Blobby, 5.

Galway Bay, 6. Jingle Bells, 7. The Vietnam War, 8. 26th (“on the feast of Stephen”), 9. Gary Barlow, 10. 184 (7 swans-a-swimming on 6 days, 6 geese-a-laying on 7 days, 4 colly birds on 9 days, 3 French hens on 10 days, 2 turtle doves on 11 days, 1 partridge on 12 days)

45

The Christmas Truce

by Alison Runham

Christmas Eve 1914. The Western Front. Weeks of rain have ended and mud is becoming ice. Despite calls for a Christmas ceasefire, fighting has continued throughout December, although today it seems half-hearted in many places.

Staff Sergeant Clement Barker is in his trench with his comrades.

Across No Man’s Land, the Germans are decorating tiny trees sent from home with candles as they sing Stille Nacht (Silent Night). “The trenches were a blaze of Christmas trees,” one Tommy recalled, “and our sentries were regaled for hours with traditional Christmas songs.”

In some places, English troops decide that they “ought to retaliate in some way.” “So we sang The First Noël... they all began clapping; and then they struck up another favourite of theirs, O Tannenbaum.”

At Barker’s trench, a German soldier appears. “He said that if (we) did not fire, they wouldn’t in the morning,” Barker wrote later. Next morning, Barker’s men cautiously venture out to retrieve and bury their dead.

46

German soldiers of the 134th Saxon Regiment and British soldiers of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment meet in no man’s land, December 26

No shots are fired. Soon they’re shaking hands with the Germans and exchanging gifts, and then “a football is kicked out of our trenches, and Germans and English play football.”

Henry Williamson, who later wrote Tarka the Otter, also recalled football matches, but behind German lines; if British and German troops played together, he made no mention of it. However, despite the myths surrounding Truce matches between both sides, some are well-documented in letters. Two soldiers of the 6th Cheshires described a huge, free-for-all match in Wulverghem, Belgium, where No Man’s Land was less damaged by shell fire.

Williamson recalled the Germans singing Silent Night, too, before inviting the English closer. His unit suspected a trap. “We crept out... expecting any moment to fall flat with the machine guns opening up. And nothing happened.” Both sides were soon exchanging gifts and greetings, and similar scenes were occurring at many points along the Front.

Cigarettes, rations, uniform buttons and even addresses were exchanged. One English trench received a German chocolate cake, together with a ceasefire request and an invitation to an impromptu concert. “Just think,” wrote one soldier to his family, “while you were eating turkey I

was talking and shaking hands with the very men I had been trying to kill a few hours before!”

The truce at Williamson’s position held for four days before orders arrived to end fraternisation, while the Germans were warned to expect visits from senior officers; they sent a message across, explaining that they would have to fire their machine guns, but would fire high to avoid hitting anyone.

For Barker, peace lasted a little longer too. “Night came and still no shots. Boxing day the same, and has remained so up to now,” he wrote a few days later.

But gradually fighting resumed.

Captain J.C. Dunn’s account of resuming hostilities is poignant: “I fired three shots in the air and put up a flag with “Merry Christmas” on it, and I climbed on the parapet...[the Germans] put up a sheet with “Thank you” on it, and the German Captain appeared... We both bowed and saluted... he fired two shots in the air, and the War was on again.”

Both truces (and football games) had occurred in earlier wars. So what makes the 1914 Christmas Truce especially memorable?

Perhaps because in a war that cost over 10 million lives, it was, as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle said, “one human episode amid all the atrocities.”

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