March 2018

news

Xxxxxxx 2018

winchestertoday.co.uk 1

MARCH 2018 ISSUE 037

www.winchestertoday.co.uk

ASTONISHING REUNION AS NURSING COMES FULL CIRCLE Nurse and her former patient back together on neonatal unit

By KEVIN GOVER News Editor HAVING spent almost 40 years working on the neonatal unit at Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Barbara Morbin is used to seeing former patients return to visit. However, for the last few weeks, she has had the opportunity to work alongside one of the people she helped nurse to health.

Ali Ansari is training to be a GP, and was born prematurely alongside his twin sister at Royal Hampshire County Hospital in 1990. The family were cared for by deputy ward sister Barbara, who has worked at Winchester hospital since 1979 and has looked after babies on the neonatal unit since 1980: “When Ali first started he was asking around if anyone who worked on the ward in 1990 was still here. I think I was one of the only ones and it was quite a shock to see him again!

“It’s always so great to see how the people that we care for on the unit have progressed in life and how well they’ve turned out.

“We often get patients who stayed on the unit in the past come back to see us,

It was quite a shock to see him again!

Dr Ali Ansari and Barbara Morbin in the neonatal unit at Royal Hampshire County Hospital

Come Run With Me (no planes involved!)

THE Runway Run is officially back supporting a cause dear to the hearts of Southampton Airport and the staff here at Winchester Today. Around 600 people are expected to take part in the 5km run along the runway at Southampton Airport in aid of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance - with no planes around!

You’ll need to get up early though as the runway will need to be cleared by 7am ready for those flights to begin again. It takes place at 6am on Sunday 24 June 2018, with registration from 5am and a warm-up from 5.40am. Runners will need to register beforehand and the entry cost is £20.

As you will already know, HIOWAA brings an advanced critical care team to people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight when they need it most.

The team at the airport say they’re delighted to open up the runway once again, with the goal of hitting £30,000.

Ray Southam, is Corporate Fundraiser at HIOWAA: “Last year The Runway Run raised over £18,000 for HIOWAA and it’s a fantastic idea which will raise much needed funds to keep the Air Ambulance flying and saving lives. I look forward to joining hundreds of others in this unique event!”

To register for the Southampton Airport Runway Run please visit southamptonairport.com/run

which is always rewarding, but they don’t usually come back to work with us!”

Dr Ansari spoke fondly of his return: “Being a doctor has been a passion of mine for a long time and I’ve loved working with the neonatal team at Winchester.

“It was a complete coincidence that I was placed here in paediatrics, where I was cared for at birth. Seeing it from the other side really gives me a perspective what happened when my sister and I were born and everything my parents went through with us.”

The Cathedral gets a makeover page 3

The Sleeping Beauty wows the Mayflower page 5

Escape to Los Angeles page 12

HILTONBURY JERSEYS Fresh Raw Jersey Milk and Cream

Come and see us at Uplands Farm, Winchester Street, Botley, SO30 2AA. Open Daily 7am - 7pm.

You’re also very welcome to visit our stall at the Hampshire Farmers’ Market in Winchester.

Pasteurised Milk Also Available For Coffee Shops, Farm Shops and Tea Rooms

hiltonburyjerseys.co.uk • hiltonbury_jerseys@btinternet.com • 07977 933470

news

2 winchestertoday.co.uk

March 2018

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR This month appears to be all about words… both as a parent and a teacher. I know that many of you love the ideas and invention that we come up with, and I was personally very pleased when I first saw Freya Storey’s contribution this month on the importance of reading to children. I know how enthusiastic and animated she can get, and her words on how she does it just flew off the paper.

It brought back memories for me of the best teachers in the world - Mr Terrett at St Saviour’s Junior School in Bath, who read to us books like ‘Stig of the Dump’, ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’ and ‘The Family From One End Street’ - he would even let me read to younger children instead of having to go off and play games.

It also reminded me of reading out loud ‘Percy the Park Keeper’ to my own daughter when Rachel was growing up. I can still hear the laughter now. Along with the “No,

ABOUT US winchestertoday est 2012

n EDITOR-IN-CHIEF • Kevin Gover kevin@winchestertoday.co.uk

no… dad you missed a bit!” 20 years on and just look at the imagination contained within her report from LA. I’m bursting with pride!

I did a quick poll of the staff here to see what memories they all had of reading books and growing up… what were their favourites and what did they all enjoy? The smiles started immediately, and here’s what everyone remembers: David Cradduck: Winnie the Pooh!

Eleanor Marsden: Black Beauty… responsible for a few years of annoying “I want a pony” syndrome to her parents apparently Drew White: For me it would be “The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles” by Julie Edwards (as in Julie Andrews). Absolutely full of detailed descriptions and always encouraged me to focus on looking ‘into’ objects,

not just ‘at’ them. A little hard to read to modern kids, however, because the children in the book were having secret adventures at a professor’s house that they weren’t allowed to discuss with their parents, so it’s definitely one that needs caveats galore when sharing with children now!

Chrissie Pollard: The Secret Garden Beccy Conway: The Chronicles of Narnia, Harry Potter and Peter Pan - sorry, can’t choose which one!

Julia Kimber: The Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton Helena Gomm: The Far-Distant Oxus by Katharine Hull and Pamela Whitlock (a bit like Swallows and Amazons, but with ponies…)

John Ellery: Stig of the Dump.

I hope this has brought back a few memories for you too.

Kevin Gover

You Only Had One Job...

n CONTRIBUTORS • David Cradduck • Drew White • Gavin Harris • David Cradduck • Rachel Gover • John Ellery • Chrissie Pollard • Lex Harris • Julia Kimber • Freya Storey • Cate Hardy n LAYOUT DESIGN • Jon Heal

Winchester Today Media Partner to Winchester Short Film Festival

winchestertoday

Charity Partner - supporting Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance until December 2020.

winchestertoday Suite 123 80 High Street Winchester SO23 9AT

EYEBROWS have been raised by landowners near a certain section of the A272 between Cheriton and Winchester, after a string of black-and-white warning bollards were put up on a bend… right across the entrance to one of the fields belonging to Becca Corbett at Holden Farm.

Becca told Winchester Today that she’d encouraged her family and friends to point out the error to Hampshire County Council - and to raise awareness: “My argument is that if the Council truly understood the landscape, mistakes like this would never happen. The expense to the Council must be vast when mistakes like this happen.

“Everyone knows that the A272 is notorious for accidents and extraordinarily no one here can recall an accident on that bend!!”

news@winchestertoday.co.uk This digital edition of Winchester Today has been produced entirely by the commitment of our friends through crowdfunder.co.uk - a huge ‘Thank You’ to everyone involved Want to be in the next edition? Call Julia on 07462 155247

SUBMIT YOUR FILM TO WSFF_2018

news

March 2018

winchestertoday.co.uk 3

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A CLEAN MAKES! REACTION to the big ‘Spring Clean’ at Winchester Cathedral appears to be overwhelming, with light pouring through into the Cathedral now that scaffolding has been removed.

With funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, urgent repair work to the Cathedral’s presbytery has been carried out over the last three years, including releading the roof, restoring the windows, and conserving the vault.

Now, the upper scaffold in the presbytery - in place for the last four years to allow the conservation work to take place - has gradually been removed via an additional scaffold erected in front of the Great Screen.

The additional scaffold provided unique access to the screen, enabling the surface to be cleaned with soft brushes and a vacuum cleaner. During the cleaning process, loose dirt and dust was removed from the stonework which had given the Great Screen a “negative” appearance, with dark areas lighter than those that should be pale.

The cleaning of the Great Screen was funded by the Friends of Winchester Cathedral and the work undertaken by

McNeilage Conservation, with two or three experienced conservators working on-site together to clean the screen from top to bottom.

According to Cathedral records, this has been the first time that the Great Screen has been cleaned since the 1890s. As you can see from some of our pictures, that dirt was certainly caked on!

Images: Winchester Cathedral

This has been the first time that the Great Screen has been cleaned since the 1890s

✜ stripping paint and wallpaper ✜ minor joinery repairs ✜ hanging wallpaper ✜ airless spray plaster application ✜ skimming walls ✜ external and internal painting ✜ we organise access (scaffolding, access machinery) ✜ we can spray paint: ceiling, walls, woodwork, furniture, aluminium shop fronts, etc. ✜ we are familiar with all paint brands.

Call

07926 247974

4 winchestertoday.co.uk

news

March 2018

ADVENTURER WITH A MISSION Skydiving Mount Everest, climbing it, riding horseback in Mongolia - and elephants in Alresford!

David Cradduck meets Holly Budge on her mission for meaningful change ‘HOW Many Elephants’ is an exhibition that you may have already seen at White Space in Alresford: “About 10 years ago I started working with vegetable ivory from a palm tree in the South American rainforest - it’s almost the same texture as real ivory, and it just led on to anti-poaching awareness in Africa: “It’s an awareness campaign to let people know just what is happening, but it’s also raising funds for anti-poaching projects in Africa.

Holly is taking her exhibition to China later this year, the largest users of ivory in the world. But of course she doesn’t do it by halves, and wants a bit of adventure too: “I’m going to hike the Great Wall.

All of it - 3,000 miles to raise further awareness.

New ideas: Holly’s exhibition is shocking but not by using gory images. Adventure is also part of the awareness raising, including Everest (above)

I’m going to hike the Great Wall. All of it 3,000 miles

Holly is overwhelmed by the reaction to the Alresford exhibition: “I’ve had nearly a thousand schoolchildren through the doors, and just seeing young minds introduced to a new idea, a new way of thinking - it’s been great to see their minds working.”

Holly also told David that people have been very generous: “I’ve had a huge

donation from Alresford Rotary and others too. I’m very grateful.”

‘How Many Elephants’ normally shows 35,000 elephants, the amount poached in a year. Holly says that 96 elephants are poached every day in Africa. Because the White Space is so big, the exhibition shows shows 100,000 elephants: “That’s 3 years’ worth of poaching. Four are

highlighted in red to show the hourly rate. I’ve tried to make it shocking only by the use of numbers, not gory images.

Extinct by 2025.”

She says she knows she can’t save the world single-handedly, but she thinks she can change a few minds: “Some of the children didn’t know this was happening.

Proof of what the exhibition can do.”

reviews

March 2018

winchestertoday.co.uk 5

theatre and the atmosphere is tangible.

The simply lit set is the doctor’s homeoffice, meticulous in detail and reflective of the man himself – a tidy, practical, tasteful backdrop to someone whose job it is to quietly ask the questions which will reveal the darkest thoughts in the patient.

David Baldwin as the psychiatrist with his passive, calm – almost hypnotic – voice gives a fine performance, a realistic and sympathetic tribute to Kempinski’s excellent script. David’s soft German accent, which could so easily become the subject of inappropriate mirth in the wrong hands, adds to the overall effect, as do the dapper suits, bow tie

and his studious attentiveness. A fine performance which in the second half sees the good doctor drop his mask for a few minutes in an understandable outburst at Miss Abrahams. The physician is human, after all.

It is around Miss Abrahams that the play revolves. As I say, it is almost impossible to imagine what the loss of Stephanie’s raison d’être must feel like.

Her frustration and shock at finding herself in a wheelchair take her, and us, on a roller coaster ride of emotions.

In turn, these emotions produce fear, cynicism, sharp acerbic wit, false hope, depression, happiness, anger, despair and finally acceptance. Katy Watkins’ portrayal of Stephanie is awesome. Few would attempt to take on such a complex, demanding role played in past by the likes of Juliet Stevenson, Belinda Lang and Julie Andrews but Katy’s skill as an actress has delivered a stunning version of the troubled Miss Abrahams. Were those much coveted local acting awards still being handed out every January, Katy Watkins would be first in line for one, surely.

To capture for a whole evening the undivided attention of an audience with such a relatively static two-hander takes some doing. The only respite (and I use the word carefully) is provided in the very short breaks for costume changes and even then a series of projected photographic stills and the sound of a violin solo remind us of what this woman has lost.

Stephanie’s costumes reflect her mood perfectly – her smart dresses in the opening scenes designed to match her false optimism, are eventually replaced by jeans and a scruffy top that she admits she hasn’t changed for a week.

Her aloofness and frustration turn rapidly to anger and some apparently uncharacteristically ripe language. Her venomous personal attack on the good doctor eventually turns to gratitude for helping her come to terms with her illness and inevitable decline.

Powerful stuff and if theatre has a duty to educate as well as entertain, one needs to look no further than this latest Chesil Theatre production.

Momoko Hirata dances Princess Aurora for opening night, her fluidity of movement second to none

this must require is immense, yet we in the audience could be fooled into thinking it easy, so unwavering is Hirata’s poise.

What stands out to me as being different from other ballets I’ve seen in recent times is the prominent use of mime. Several of the key characters on stage do not dance technical ballet, but instead communicate their intentions through gesture and specific motion.

This is not mime as one might associate the term – man in an invisible box, for example – but clean, often repeated movements which Carabosse (Nao Sakuma) uses to portray cursing the young princess, and the Lilac Fairy (Jenna Roberts) uses to depict saving her life. There is a fascinating explanation of Mime in Ballet in the production’s programme, along with some mime ‘script’.

We are treated to many other elements of the traditional ballet formula, some of the most joyful in the final Act, during the wedding celebrations. Short pantomimes featuring recognisable characters are performed in duets, including Puss in Boots and the White Cat, and Red Riding Hood and the Wolf. The pas de deux in Act III, danced

by Hirata and Mathias Dingman as her Prince Florimund is a stunning culmination of skill, athleticism and artistry which will delight ballet fans of all ages.

With an ensemble supported by students from The Royal Ballet School and Elmhurst Ballet School, and a score performed by the inimitable Royal Ballet Sinfonia, The Sleeping Beauty combines superlative tradition with the talent of tomorrow.

A THOUGHTFUL AND ENTERTAINING DUET Uplifting, noble, entertaining… David Cradduck reviews Duet For One

DUET FOR ONE Chesil Theatre, Winchester

By DAVID CRADDUCK IT is difficult to understand how anyone can write with authority and credibility a play about someone suffering from multiple sclerosis without actually having experienced it themselves. For instance, what really goes through the mind of someone struck down in their prime that brings them to contemplate suicide?

But unless Tom Kempinski, creator of the 1980s award winning Duet For One had first-hand experience of MS, he must have done his research well because it is a well crafted, poignant, insight into the relationship between an MS victim and her psychiatrist as they attempt to steer a course of understanding and some kind of treatment for her mental state.

Reputedly based on the life of Jacqueline Du Pré and her decline from celebrated cellist because of MS, Duet for One explores the mental state of a musician deprived of her music and therefore her reason to live.

This might make one think it is a morbid and depressing play; but it truly isn’t, it is uplifting, noble, funny (in a pithy, witty way) and I felt entertained.

Duet For One has certain parallels with Whose Life Is It Anyway, another twohander of the 80s that tells the story of a paralysed man in a hospital bed. In fact, it was Flavia Bateson’s directorial debut at Chesil some years ago. Yes, both deal with difficult subjects; but treated with sympathy, a good script, talented cast and forceful direction, the most awful situations can produce excellent theatre.

Chesil Theatre are not known for avoiding difficult and challenging

Powerful stuff: Katy Watkins Stephanie Adams and David Baldwin as Dr Feldman

Katy Watkins’ portrayal of Stephanie is awesome

subjects. Flavia Bateson says: “I chose this play not only for its fine narrative and writing but because it is a challenge to me as a director to find ways of injecting vibrancy and interest into two largely static characters”.

So although we see just two characters on stage – the brilliant concert violinist Stephanie Abrahams cruelly robbed of her ability to play and her probing, soft-spoken shrink, Dr Feldman – this play is really a three-hander. One is always aware of the director’s presence as the story is told in a series of six short chronological interviews.

The choice of play is perfectly matched to the ambience of Chesil’s intimate

An opulent take on a classic Birmingham Royal Ballet’s acclaimed production wows the Mayflower THE SLEEPING BEAUTY Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

By BECCY CONWAY THE original incarnation of The Sleeping Beauty was commissioned

by Director of the Imperial Theatres, Ivan Alexandrovich Vsevolozhsky, and premiered at the Mariinsky Theatre in St Petersburg in 1890. The work of choreographer Marius Petipa and composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, The Sleeping Beauty was cited as the origin of creative inspiration for many important choreographers of the twentieth century.

There is nothing quite like a traditional Tchaikovsky ballet. Arguably the most prominent of all Russian composers, Tchaikovsky composed some of the most infamous and enduring ballets in existence. A staple in the repertoire of Birmingham Royal Ballet, this production by Sir Peter Wright, created for the company’s predecessor Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet in 1984, is a true journey back in time to Imperial Russia. During an era when the fashion is to reimagine classical works, Wright’s Sleeping Beauty is as close as possible to Petipa’s original.

The first impression we have as the curtain ascends is one of sheer opulence.

Gilded walls enclose the stage, which is

dotted with marble ornaments and plush drapes. A golden statue looms above the scene from the back of the stage, behind the ornate crib in which the baby Aurora is placed. The statue is shaped in a severe spike, its shape mirrored in Carabosse’s cursed spindle, an ever-present reminder of the inevitable fate which will befall the young princess.

The ensemble makes up the people of the Court, adorned in luxurious period dress and decorative headdresses.

Although not entirely to my taste, I’m fascinated to read that most of the

costumes date back to the 1984 premiere, well-made as they are. All in all, the costumes, headdresses and wigs – worn by the full cast throughout the piece, require an entire lorry to themselves.

The choreography itself is some of the most difficult ballet in the canon.

Momoko Hirata dances the eighteenyear-old Princess Aurora for opening night, her fluidity of movement second to none. Act II sees her interact with four would-be suitors, standing for an extended time on a single pointe shoe as she receives them in turn. The strength

reviews

6 winchestertoday.co.uk

March 2018

A challenging and moving take on ‘The Scottish Play’ Eleanor Marsden reviews Mark Bruce’s production of Macbeth MACBETH Theatre Royal, Winchester

By ELEANOR MARSDEN SAYING that the opening production of the Theatre Royal’s new 2018 season was like a bad dream would be praise indeed to director Mark Bruce, a renowned contemporary dance choreographer whose company has been presenting cutting-edge dance and performance work since 1991. Shakespeare’s renowned dark tragedy is translated for the medium of dance in a nightmarish setting, full of unnerving effects, tableaux and freakish characters, who wear their inner ugliness on the outside.

For anyone who has ever harboured fears of witches, clowns, dolls, needles, hammers, knives and masks… This version of the Scottish Play might not be for you, since the company uses all these motifs and more besides. With a cast of only 8 (excluding understudies), there has been some imaginative pruning of the plot and dramatis personae: purists may object, but nevertheless, the main elements of the story are largely present (as are some moments which actually occur offstage in the play). True, Malcolm and Donalbain have morphed into ‘Duncan’s daughter’ and the famous Birnham

Shakespeare’s dark tragedy is translated in a nightmarish setting Wood doesn’t move to Dunsinane… but all the same, the production’s overwhelming tropes of human frailty, greed and remorse are ever-present - in all their ghastly and gruesome reality.

That said, some knowledge of the plot would be useful before seeing this production; some aspects didn’t quite translate and many of the audience were left scratching their heads at more obscure symbolism.

Non-dance aficionados may struggle with the medium of storytelling to start with; admittedly, it takes a while to adjust to the jerky movements of some of the pieces and the complete lack of any of the

famous text. The only ‘speech’, indeed, is the odd scream – punctuating truly horrifying moments and guaranteed to shake the audience out of themselves (and quite often, out of their skins).

Present as almost another character in the action is the simple but highly effective set, working in conjunction with a dramatic and dream-like lighting scheme, which has characters and tableaux fading in and out on the stage as if in the imagination. Effects, too, are sparse but highly effective: King Duncan’s funeral pyre, for instance, is a sight to behold.

It may take a bit of time, but gradually,

the medium becomes completely normal and the language of the movement starts to make sense. Macbeth (an expressive Jonathan Goddard) has some serious chemistry with his Lady (Eleanor Duval) and the moment when he finally shelves his indecision and seizes the knife that changes his future is truly chilling – but compelling. At the other end of the spectrum, Duncan’s daughter (Carina Howard) tells us of her grief at her father’s murder in a supremely moving piece of dance which sets her as the antithesis of Lady Macbeth.

Throughout the production, the music of Arvo Pärt has been cleverly stitched

together; the variety of his compositions – from choral majesty to dissonant discord – fitting expertly to the narrative (augmented by a number of other composers). Was it an ‘enjoyable’ experience? No; the production seeks to make the audience profoundly uncomfortable in many places, and for those unused to the medium, it is surprising how movement, light and sound alone can have such an effect. However, for those wanting to be challenged, moved and ever so slightly frightened, this is a production to see – in all its clever, and deeply creepy, creativity.

Fairport Convention Receive Warm Welcome at The Theatre Royal Review by CATE HARDY THERE are few audiences friendlier than a Fairport Convention audience.

Those arriving late to the soldout show are greeted with smiles and banter as people stand to give them access to their seats. And this camaraderie continues onstage, with folk duo Winter Wilson sharing anecdotes and raising laughter during their strong opening set, the highlight of which is a rousing tribute to author Jack London, titled ‘Ashes and Dust’.

As Fairport slip casually onstage to help Winter Wilson finish up with ‘Still Life in the Old Dog Yet’, the band acknowledge with wry smiles that this is a particularly apt introduction for a band in their 51st year of existence.

This is Fairport’s 34th consecutive winter tour – or ‘Wintour’ – and they could be forgiven for playing their classics with a practised mechanism, but ‘Crazy Man Michael’ and ‘Doctor of Physick’ are performed with as much energy and freshness as Noughties rocker ‘Hawkwood’s Army’. Fiddle player Ric Sanders’s jazz-tinged improvisations often give the songs the illusion they’re being jammed rather than performed.

However, the haunting three-part vocal harmonies of Ralph McTell song ‘Clear Water’ and the perfect synchronicity of rhythm section Dave Pegg and Gerry Conway display the band’s deep familiarity with the material.

Many of Fairport’s most upbeat and memorable songs have been penned in recent years by multi-instrumentalist Chris Leslie. Newcomer ‘Shuffle and Go’ is a delight in the first half of the set with its rockabilly rhythms clashing merrily with the nostalgia of its lyrics,

and in the second half a particularly apocalyptic rendition of his ‘Mercy Bay’ builds energy for the traditional dual finale of ‘Matty Groves’ and ‘Meet on the Ledge’. The band is rejoined by Winter Wilson for the latter, with Dave Wilson and Dave Pegg smiling as they share a mic and Kip Winter taking centre stage from Simon Nicol.

Perhaps this is the secret to Fairport’s energy and longevity – the ease with which they share a stage and their joy in working with other musicians.

SMALL BIG CHANGE DIFFERENCE FOR JUST OVER 1p AN HOUR, WE’LL BE THERE WHEN YOU NEED US

Your small change will make a big difference and will give HIOWAA a steady income to help secure our long term future

DONATE £8 A MONTH TO HELP SUPPORT YOUR AIR AMBULANCE Visit hiowaa.org or call 02380 333 377 to set up a regular donation

reviews

March 2018

winchestertoday.co.uk 7

A THAI TAPAS TO RETURN TO Helena Gomm tries out the new lunchtime menu at Koh Thai Tapas in Jewry Street I love Thai food, so I was delighted to be offered the chance to sample the new lunchtime deal at Koh Thai Tapas in Jewry Street, Winchester. This consists of two courses for £12, which represents very good value. As I don’t eat meat, I made sure I took a guest who does, so that between us we could sample as wide a range of dishes as we could.

The first course (essentially a starter) was to be chosen from a ‘Thai Tapas’ menu. Even though these dishes might be billed as ‘tapas’, the portions are a lot more generous than that word would imply, and we certainly weren’t disappointed by the quantity of food we were served.

Sadly, the lunchtime special ‘Thai Tapas’ menu has only one dish for vegetarians: vegetable spring rolls. As this menu is a cut-down version of the main ‘Thai Tapas’ menu, it would have been nice if there had been a couple more of the vegetarian dishes from this included: putting the sweetcorn cakes and the vegetable tempura (both of which look delicious in the photos on the website) on the lunchtime menu would be a good idea.

Although I could have eaten either of the seafood options (wok-fried prawns or prawn toast), I went for the vegetable spring rolls to see how good they were.

They were delicious – crispy pastry stuffed with fresh vegetables and served

HAMPSHIRE ROOFING WINCHESTER ALL ROOF REPAIRS SLATES/TILES REPLACED • CHIMNEYS REPOINTED RIDGE TILES REPOINTED GARAGE/EXTENSIONS /FLAT ROOFS RENEWED OR REPAIRED LEAD VALLEYS REPAIRED

FREE ESTIMATES RING HARRY

OFFICE: 01962 860487 • MOBILE: 077 959 35202

Buggyworkout UK - The Fitness Programme for mums Free trial, children welcome, 5 classes per week email: admin@buggyworkoutuk.co.uk | phone: 07799 890860

buggyworkoutuk.co.uk

Like to advertise with us?

Call Julia on

07462 155247

Tapas Penang Curry was the star of the show with a very nice sweet chilli sauce. My guest chose the Thai grilled pork, and although he found the meat a little on the chewy side, he had high praise for the delicious marinade. Both dishes were very attractively presented, with a carrot carved into the shape of a lotus flower.

When it came to the main course, my guest’s Tapas Penang Curry was the star of the show. He opted for the chicken version and reported that it was absolutely delicious: a superbly rich sauce with a very generous amount of meat and vegetables, and the spiciness was just right – noticeable but not overpowering.

It was accompanied by a good serving of sticky rice, which was very useful for soaking up the sauce so that none was wasted.

My Phad Thai was fresh, tasty and filling. Both the curries and the stir-fry dishes on the main course menu have chicken or vegetable versions. The only

fish option, however, is a smoked salmon salad. This didn’t sound quintessentially Thai to me, so I didn’t choose it. If you really wanted fish, though, you could opt for ‘The Grill’ instead of a starter and main course. Rather confusingly, both the menu and the website seem to suggest that the main course is to be chosen from seven dishes, one of which is ‘The Grill’. However, our waitress politely explained that if you choose this, you don’t get a starter. She admitted that a lot of people find it confusing. To be fair, the couple on the neighbouring table had no trouble at all grasping the concept without assistance: perhaps they had had lunch at the restaurant before. Judging by comments online and on social media, the Koh restaurants (there are a further 12 branches, many in the local area) are popular places, which people do return to again and again.

The restaurant has a very wide range of cocktails, wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks. The staff are friendly and welcoming and the place has a pleasant atmosphere. My guest and I agreed that we would be happy to eat there again, and that the lunchtime special was very good value. Koh Thai Tapas has a similar deal on offer for early evening, which would be ideal for anyone wanting a quick bite on their way to the theatre (just across the road) or before any other evening entertainment.

news

8 winchestertoday.co.uk

March 2018

Squirt and Squidge

YOU CAN READ PREVIOUS EDITIONS OF FREYA’S BLOG AT SQUIRTANDSQUIDGE.COM

For the love of books

Freya Storey continues to share her life as a mum-of-two ‘A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies, the man who never reads lives only one.’

George RR Martin I’VE always been a bookworm - I have strong, geeky memories of fond times at primary school when I would forsake my playtime to sneak into the hall and rummage along the bookshelves. There was a large collection of Peter and Jane books and I LOVED them, I would sit cross legged on the floor and begin to read. The pictures were so vivid and I used to whizz through them rushing to get on to the next.

I suppose I was about 8 or 9 and from then on, my love for books grew.

Another literary landmark etched in my memory was the fantastic Chronicles of Narnia by C.S.Lewis - this blew me away, to the point that I pretty much convinced myself I was part of the story.

I used to have the map of Narnia on my bedroom wall and as I was reading I was plotting my route, as I was looking I was imagining that fascinating world and as I was dreaming I was thinking of Narnia and my quest to meet Aslan.

What is reading’s place now? Is it still important in the modern day? With book sales continuing to soar, and the rise of

Kindles and e-books emerging all the time in the cyber world it seems our love of reading is thankfully continuing ...

So why is reading so important?

Relaxation - The experience of reading has been proven to be one that we still enjoy. The hand held book, with all it’s sentiment and authenticity remains a relaxing process - it still forces us to slow down and be quiet.

Growth - In the words of Dr Seuss “The more things that you read, the more things that you will know.” It is still seen as one of the fundamental ways of gaining knowledge. The further afield you read, the wider your range of knowledge, the more in depth you read the greater your understanding.

Speech and vocabulary - Reading a wide range of books increases vocabulary while hearing stories and reading aloud has also been said to aid speech development.

Early Readers With a couple of early readers of my own, we love to read together and have made it an important part of our daily routine. Unable to read independently yet, they are definitely gaining a passion for books and you never know may turn into little bookworms of their own!

But what if your child doesn’t like

books or you’re not that fussed yourself ... having worked with quite a few children as a teacher, I’ve discovered a few things that have helped me get some readers on board which I’ll share below in case any are helpful: 1) Re - reading old classics Digging them out of the attic/drawer (getting them out of the library if you don’t have them anymore). Reading a book that you enjoy will shine through to your little one. It will show your passion and hopefully help ignite theirs. It will also help build strong comprehension skills as you can confidently talk to your child about what is going on in the story.

2) Read aloud/Sing nursery rhymes When you have little ones that are not able to independently read yet, get them to follow words as you read them aloud - this will help them spot letters without noticing it. Also sing together - nursery rhymes can seem pretty archaic nowadays but they are still so instrumental to early speech development/word rhythms/patterns/ rhyme.

When your little ones can access reading independently - it is nice to keep this going as it can be a great help with speaking and listening skills and also to build confidence with public speaking and drama skills.

3) Make it fun - I love to use puppets and teddies when reading with really little ones, and in fact some of the older children still really enjoy it too. I was reading a crocodile puppet book to my two the other night and it was so lovely to see the reaction from both children, my smallest (just 1) was in awe of the crocodile, nervously edging up to it in case it should ‘snap’ her fingers while my oldest (almost 4) was roaring laughing as it grabbed his hand and wouldn’t let go!

Fitting it all in!

I have set myself a challenge to read a book a month

I guess this is the hardest part ... personally trying to read your book and then making the time with the little ones.

Recently I made a pledge to myself that I would make sure reading was a focus of 2018! I have set myself a challenge to read a book a month - that’s 12 books this year ... I hope to read more but I am trying to be realistic, so far I have read two so I am on track. A welcome change to routine has meant less TV and more reading.

With the little ones, it is part of an intrinsic routine that we have always had ... it is the downtime after bath time and is one of my favourite parts of the day - they choose the book and we read it together on the ‘Story Chair’, sometimes characters join us sometimes it’s just us and the words!

Discover the Freedom of

Electric Bicycles 16 Seat Minibus Hire with driver for all occasions Weddings • Sports Events • Evenings Out Sightseeing • Tours • Airports • Corporate Travel

Short-term e-bike hire from £29.99 Wide selection of e-bikes and regular bikes Over 25 years experience

Winchester Road Four Marks GU34 5HQ 01420 563922 www.owenscycles.co.uk

Our friendly and will help you find the right bike The latest e-bikes from Scott, Merida, Orbea and more…

Brings the fun back in to cycling!

Leaflet A5 rightbike 2017_2.indd 1

Stoner Hill, Steep Petersfield GU32 1AJ 01730 260446

www.right-bike.co.uk Opening hours: Tuesday–Saturday 9am–5:30pm 24/04/2017 12:10

01962 458 468 Enquiries@CandyTours.co.uk www.CandyTours.co.uk

news

March 2018

HAMPSHIRE SECURE SAM NORTHEAST

HAMPSHIRE Cricket day they are delighted to announce the signing of top-order batsman Sam Northeast. The highly sought-after right-hander has signed a long-term deal with the Club, committing his future until at least the end of 2021.

Since making his debut for Kent in 2007, Northeast has totalled more than 8,000 first-class runs at an average of 39.66 in 136 matches, whilst the 28-yearold has reached the 1,000-run landmark in each of the last three County Championship campaigns.

The Ashford-born player has also proved to be an excellent performer across both white-ball formats, playing a

Sam (above) ‘hugely excited’ about joining Hampshire

winchestertoday.co.uk 9

Right on Cue Barton student is snooker sensation

key role recording more than 4,500 runs in 178 List A and T20 fixtures.

Northeast says it was the right move: “I have had a really enjoyable 10 years at Kent and I would like to wish the club and its supporters the best of luck for the future. It was an honour to be the Club Captain for three years and I leave the club with many happy memories.

“At the same time, I am hugely excited about joining Hampshire. It is a club and a team with a very bright future, and I am really looking forward to making as big a contribution as possible towards the club’s success. I hope this move will also help me push on to fulfil my dream of playing for England.”

BARTON Peveril Sixth Form College student Steven Hughes has earned his place in the last 16 of both the Under 21s and Under 18s English Association of Snooker and Billiards Championship Qualifiers, after competing in Coulsdon, South London on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th February.

Steven won his place in the next stage of both competitions, despite being just 16 years old, which will take place in Leeds in April.

Steven won his Under 21 knockout match 4-0, on Saturday 10th. Then, on Sunday 11th, he came top of his five-man group in the Under 18 competition and only lost one match.

Steven spoke of his success: “It has been an ambition of mine for the last couple of years to make the National Last 16. To qualify for both the Under 21s and Under 18s in the same year is a dream come true. I plan to practice hard for the next 2 months to make sure my standard of play is the best it has ever been.”

Family fun day in aid of Bloodwise (the blood cancer charity)

SMALL BIG CHANGE DIFFERENCE FOR JUST OVER 1p AN HOUR, WE’LL BE THERE WHEN YOU NEED US

Your small change will make a big difference and will give HIOWAA a steady income to help secure our long term future

DONATE £8 A MONTH TO HELP SUPPORT YOUR AIR AMBULANCE Visit hiowaa.org or call 02380 333 377 to set up a regular donation

IF you manage to read this copy of Winchester Today at the beginning of the month, here’s news of an event for a cause very close to at least three of the staff at the newspaper.

A group of Winchester University students and the Bloodwise Winchester Fundraising group are organising a Family Fun Day on Saturday 3rd March 10am-4pm in Winchester University Sports Hall, Sparkford Road, Winchester, SO22 4NR. All proceeds will go to Bloodwise. There will be on offer mini sports games, drinks and cakes, stalls and a raffle. Admission and parking are free.

Bloodwise Winchester Fundraising group held two other fundraising events recently. The first was their annual Quiz Night. The excellent quiz master was Duncan McLeish, ably assisted by Natalie

McLeish and Belinda Newton.

14 imaginatively-named teams took part and their brains were given a boost by a ploughman’s supper served during the interval. A tie between two teams meant that the quiz culminated in a tie-break that was won by ‘Quiz Park Rangers’. The evening was much enjoyed by the participants and raised £983.

The second event was a collection at Aldi in Winchester that raised £454.

The proceeds will go towards the valuable work of Bloodwise in funding blood cancer research and offering support to patients plus their families and friends.

For more information about the Fun Day and the Fundraising group, contact Marion -Tel: 01962 864823, email: marion.symes@gmail.com.

Please Support Our Advertisers Without their help, we simply wouldn’t exist.

Go on, shop locally and give them a call and don’t forget to mention

Winchester Today!

news

10 winchestertoday.co.uk

March 2018

What’s On across Hampshire and beyond March 2018 Thursday 1st Opera Under the Stars: Hänsel und Gretel

Thursday 8th Behind the Scenes Tour of Hampshire Record Office

Winchester Science Centre, Winchester.

7.30pm – 10pm. Adults £25, Children £15

Hampshire Record Office, Winchester. 2pm 4pm. £10, with advance booking required

Thursday 1st - Saturday 3rd Son of a Preacher Man Musical

Friday 9th Brit Floyd Eclipse

The Kings Theatre, Portsmouth. 7.30pm.

Tickets available at - kingsportsmouth.co.uk

Friday 2nd Sinatra, Sequins and Swing The Lights, Andover. 7.45pm. £20 - £21.50.

Tickets available at thelights.org.uk

Saturday 3rd Bach St Matthew Passion Winchester Cathedral, Winchester. 7.10pm – 9.30pm.

Saturday 3rd, 10th, 24th Chocolate Craft Workshops Upton Park Farm, Old Alresford. 10am – 12.30pm. 2pm - 4.30pm. £59 per person, £99 for two people

Saturday 3rd Southampton Farmers’ Market Oxford Street. Daytime

Sunday 4th Coastal Change Walk High Water, St Helens Duver, Isle of White.

1pm - 2.30pm. Free, but donations welcome

Sunday 4th Petersfield Farmers’ Market

Music, Portsmouth Guildhall. 7.30pm.

Prices range from £34 - £46

Friday 9th – Saturday 17th Petersfield Musical Festival Festival Hall, Petersfield. Tickets available from One Tree Books, Petersfield 01730 261199, or online at ticketsource.co.uk/ petersfieldmusicalfestival

Friday 9th Stylish Events Wedding Fayre The Broadway, Winchester. 10.30am – 3.30pm. £2

Saturday 10th Alton Farmers’ Market Alton, GU34 1HD. Daytime

Saturday 10th Baby and Child Resuscitation Course Holiday Inn, Telegraph Way, Winchester.

9.30am – 11.30am. £10 including refreshments. Information at – info@ babyresuscitation.co.uk

Saturday 10th Midsummer Night’s Dream The Lights, Andover. 7.30pm. £13.50 - £17.50.

Tickets available at - thelights.org.uk

The Square. Daytime

Saturday 10th Ed Byrne

Sunday 4th Portsmouth Philharmonic Cream Tea Concert

The Anvil, The Haymarket, Basingstoke.

8pm. £26 (£2 booking fee)

Mountbatten Centre, Alexandra Park, Portsmouth. In aid of the Rheumatology department. Tickets are available at: www.portsmouthphilharmonia.org. or at Rheumatology QAH

Saturday 10th Jess Robinson: Here Come The Girls

Sunday 4th Romsey Farmers’ Market Alma Road. Daytime

Saturday 10th - Sunday 11th Portsmouth Big Mouth Comedy Festival

Tuesday 6th – Saturday 10th The Sound of Music

Portsmouth Guildhall, Guildhall Square.

12pm. Prices range from £19 - £70 for full weekend ticket

Kings Theatre, Albert Road, Southsea.

2.30pm and 7.30pm. £42

Thursday 8th The Blues Band The Anvil, The Haymarket, Basingstoke.

7.30pm. £23 (£2 booking fee)

Celebrity Impressionist. The Corn Exchange, Newbury. 8pm. £18.50.

RACHEL GOVER

Sunday 11th Souffle Masterclass

Saturday 17th – Sunday 18th Peppa Pig’s Adventure

Thursday 22nd French Film Day

Sunday 25th Beauty and the Beast Panto

Lainston House Hotel’s Season Cookery School, Woodman Lane Winchester.

9am – 1.30pm.

Theatre Royal Winchester, Jewry Street. 10am, 1pm, 4pm.

Tickets available at theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

Langrish House, Petersfield.

10.30am – early afternoon. £29.95 pp

The Anvil, The Haymarket, Basingstoke. 2pm. £22 (£2 booking fee)

Friday 23rd Jewellery Workshops

Tuesday 27th – Saturday 31st Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella

Sunday 18th Hampshire Farmers’ Market

Sandham Memorial Chapel, Harts Lane, Burghclere. 1.40pm – 4pm.

The Mayflower Theatre, Southampton.

Performances at 2pm and 7.30pm. Ticket prices range £22 - £43. Tickets available at mayflower.org.uk/whats-on/cinderella-2018/

Sunday 11th Russell Watson: Canzoni D’Amore The Kings Theatre, Portsmouth. 7.30pm.

Tickets available at - kingsportsmouth.co.uk

Sunday 11th, 25th Winchester Farmers’ Market Middle Brook Street, Winchester. Daytime

Tuesday 13th Katie Piper: What’s in my Head The Lights, Andover. 7.30pm. £15.

Tickets available at - thelights.org.uk

Tuesday 13th – Saturday 17th Fiddler on the Roof The Haymarket Theatre, Wote Street, Basingstoke. 7.30pm.

Tickets available at - anvilarts.org.uk/

Tuesday 13th Lloyd & Rose Buck - Our Life with Birds Theatre Royal, Jewry Street, Winchester.

7.30pm. Prices from £13 - £17

Palmerston Road, Southsea. 10am – 2pm.

Monday 19th John Bishop: Winging It The Mayflower Theatre, Southampton.

8pm. £37.50. Tickets available here mayflower.org.uk

Monday 19th – Tuesday 20th The Land of OZ Long Overdue Theatre School.

The Lights, Andover. 6.30pm. £9.

Tickets available at - thelights.org.uk

Tuesday 20th Only Fools & 3 Courses The Mayflower Theatre, Southampton. 19.00pm. £65 pp.

Tickets available here - mayflower.org.uk

Winchester Science Centre, Telegraph Way. 4.30pm - 6pm and 6.30pm - 8pm. Tickets available at winchestersciencecentre.org

Friday 16th Jason Donovan and his Amazing Midlife Crisis The Theatre Royal Winchester, Jewry Street, Winchester. 8pm. Tickets available at theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

Friday 16th Jason Manford: Muddle Class

Friday 23rd The Little Mix Experience Kings Theatre, Albert Road, Southsea.

6pm. £16

Wednesday 28th Crimes Under The Sun

Saturday 24th – Sunday 25th Night Sky Live!

Theatre Royal Winchester, Jewry Street. 7.30pm. Tickets available at theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

Winchester Science Centre, Telegraph Way. 10.00am – 9pm. Tickets available at winchestersciencecentre.org

Sunday 25th John Robbins Comedy, Nuffield Southampton Theatres Campus, Southampton. £14.50

Friday 30th – Sunday 8th April Day out with Thomas at the Watercress Line – Easter Fun! Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line, Station Road, Alresford. 9.30am - 5pm. Adults £18, Children (2-15yrs) £12

Saturday 31st Ringwood Farmers’ Market The Furlong. Daytime

Tuesday 20th Archive Film Workshop Hampshire Record Office, Winchester. 1pm - 3pm. £20, advance booking required

Wednesday 14th Space Lectures

Listings here are free. You can send printed leaflets or brochures to Winchester Today, Suite 123, 80 High Street, Winchester, SO23 9AT, or send details by email to news@winchestertoday.co.uk - all event details listed above are correct at time of going to press.

QUALITY CUSTOM METALWORK

for home, garden and business

Portsmouth Guildhall, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth. 7pm. £32

Saturday 17th – Sunday 18th DIY Live Science Shows with Jon Chase Winchester Science Centre, Telegraph Way. 10.00am – 5pm. £1 pp

Saturday 10th- Sunday 11th STEM Superheroes Weekend

Saturday 17th Emsworth Farmers’ Market

Winchester Science Centre, Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium, Telegraph Way. 10am – 5pm. Book tickets online at winchestersciencecentre.org

St Peter’s Square. Daytime

‘PEBBLES’, IOW

COMPILED BY

Beach hut themed self-catering, holiday chalet in Niton, fully equipped, stunning location. From £280pw. 07717 134272

GATES RAILINGS FIXTURES FURNISHING SECURITY

Call HARRIS METAL TRADING on 07713928813 or email lexmus@hotmail.co.uk

news

March 2018

winchestertoday.co.uk 11

winchestertoday

Radio Listening Guide Winchester Today Radio News from Winchester and amazing songs - ‘The Music From Your Life’ brought to you by radio professionals right here in Winchester.

Find us online via the TuneIn app, or through the ‘Listen Now’ button on our website at winchestertoday.co.uk

MONDAY - FRIDAY 06:00 Breakfast In Winchester.

Upbeat songs to get you in the right mood for the day.

Local news bulletins on the hour.

09:00 Kevin Gover continues with ‘The Music From Your Life.’

14:00 John Ellery 22:00 The ‘No Sleeping’ Zone.

Other stations want to send you to sleep at this time.

Not us!

SATURDAY 06:00 Breakfast in Winchester 10:00 Kevin Gover 13:00 T he Great Destinations Radio Show. Keri Jones brings you the atmosphere of countries and places around the world. He’s not just talking about it either.

He’s actually there!

SUNDAY 10:00 Chrissie Pollard She loves the music.

We love her!

13:00 Kevin Gover with the best of the 60s and 70s 15:00 John Ellery with the best of the 80s

Kevin Gover

15:00 John Ellery John Ellery

escape

12 winchestertoday.co.uk

March 2018

LOS ANGELES: WHO ARE YOU? Rachel Gover shares her experiences of a city that will challenge you, excite you and push you to feel every emotion

LOS Angeles. How do I describe you? I am in deep thought, I stare at my daily cup of coffee in hope to find the perfect words and I realise that there aren’t any.

You see, to describe Los Angeles seems merely impossible, in a way that I am simply lost for words.

I think back to the city once described as Tinseltown. I visualise the unique, quirky hipster style coffee shops that are littered across the city. In every corner of these coffee shops will be a laptop. With every laptop is an individual, staring long and hard into the computer screen. And on every computer screen the words: “Act One, Scene One” will be at the top of the page, waiting patiently for the next characters. Most of everyone here is a writer, everyone here dares to dream.

Creativity perfumes the air as film scripts are typed, erased, and typed up again.

There’s hunger here; an industry for which some are eaten alive. But, dreams are chased and Los Angeles will feed our creative desires.

Arriving at LAX airport, there are swarms of people. It is the Christmas holidays and Baggage Claim is filled with air kisses, small dogs dressed in coats, and cackles of laughter as families are reunited. Travellers frantically connect to the Wifi, and individuals are never shy of an airport “selfie”. There is no hesitation here, everything and everyone travels at a fast pace. Swinging my rucksack behind me, I step out into the sunshine.

As a Brit, I hadn’t seen weather like this in months. For the sun to lightly burn my skin at Christmas time was unheard of. Iconic green palm trees stand tall along the highway, as limousines pull in to pick up their passengers. Everything is bigger here. Bigger cars, the roads are enormous; traffic queues will snake around the highway for miles.

Los Angeles appears dense. The city is heavily populated with people constantly on the move; homes and streets are built close together. There are toy-town qualities here, colours are vibrant and the town exudes creativity beneath the smog. As we approach street corners, it becomes apparent that many residents here are hungry and homeless, becoming confusing and distressing to see. It is apparent that an attitude of “more is more” tinges the city as a social divide widens; leaving those without in desperate need. As the days pass, and we approach Christmas, I discover that it is rare to meet an individual born and raised in LA. Los Angeles is a city many move to from across the world, with hope to achieve. Los Angeles, this wonderful peculiar city, is deserted at Christmas. The streets become lonely as residents fly home to be with family.

Those who stay will continue about their daily routines, as if Christmas doesn’t exist. We are in a ghost town and the air is quiet.

Up in the Hollywood hills, I have trekked a dusty trail track to see the iconic sign. Trekking through the Santa Monica Mountains becomes escapism for both locals and tourists.

As we climb, our shoes dustier with every move, there are views overlooking Griffith Park. Horses walk at a slow pace around us as they carry tourists in the heat. The sun is just beginning to set, and the skies are dusty pinks, vibrant oranges and yellows, beautifully untouched. I was adamant to experience Los Angeles like a true local; I wanted to explore the hidden cracks and character within the

Christmas in LA: The city in all its glory (above) and the high-end shopping of Rodeo Drive (right)

There is hunger here; an industry for which some are eaten alive

city. However, in contradiction to this, hiking to the Hollywood Sign has always appeared high on my bucket list. I was desperate to see these letters, made so famous in the films. We are reminded how small we are as individuals as the skyline of Los Angeles appears in the distance. It is around half past four in the afternoon, there is peace up here.

I am utterly fascinated by people. To feed these curiosities, I travelled to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame. For 15 blocks, the pavements are embedded with the famous brass stars. Time passed, and the stars begin to merge into one.

As I walked step by step, my senses become overwhelmed. I am surrounded by superheroes, animated characters, and small children with their dressing up boxes. I am tugged on the arm by an individual. Hoping to not get caught up in the crowds of tourists, I begin to walk away. He pulls me back and eagerly shoves a CD into my hands. He asks me to keep faith in hope that he will make it one day as he chases the dream to become a successful music artist. Along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, we are reminded that in reality Los Angeles can be ferocious. He signs the CD and tells me one day he will be famous.

Rodeo Drive is laced with history and elegance. Located just outside of Beverly Hills, this street is home to rows of high-end designer shops. Security men stand at every door; their smiles are welcoming. I am here in another world.

Shopping bags ooze class and wealth.

As I wander, men and women line up to be part of the crowds gathering outside of the shops. Sale items are announced and are quickly bought. Throughout LA,

escape

March 2018

winchestertoday.co.uk 13

He asks me to keep faith there are many hidden rows of beautiful clothing. Sunset Boulevard is a long road, located in Downtown Los Angeles, and is home to thrift shops, vintage charms and little boutiques.

Los Angeles has a large Latino community. Around Sunset Boulevard, I am able to discover hidden restaurants serving completely delicious and authentic Mexican food. Slowly over time, gentrification has begun to permeate the streets of LA. I am fortunate to have experienced and to discover restaurants only found by exploring and getting lost. Between the coffee shops and boutiques, I was excitedly able to speak in broken Spanish and discover an array of hidden shops and restaurants, merely scratching the surface of LA. Since 1917, in Downtown Los Angeles, Grand Central Market has been home to endless stalls of authentic food. Filled with culture, life and crowds of people, photographs would not be able to truly show its beauty. The lighting here is unique and every filmmaker and photographers dream. Bright, neon colours clash above the people around, each enjoying local cuisine. Tipping servers is a huge part of culture here.

As a new girl to Los Angeles, I wanted to embrace “the LA lifestyle.” What I didn’t know is that my routine and life habits would change upside down for the better. Bikram yoga, a class performed in 40 degree heat, has allowed me to listen to my body. Through these poses, there is a deep connection between my mind and soul, allowing me to understand how I am feeling. I feel peaceful in the studio when practising, weightless. I have been inspired recently by my close friend Olivia. Following a naturopathic pathway, Olivia has reaffirmed a passion to further my research for a healthy lifestyle, to seek wellness. There is always growth here and continuous learning.

Here in LA, celebrity spotting becomes less of a novelty and integrates into the every day. Basking around Malibu beach, a smoothie drink in hand becomes the norm. On my last day in LA, I am on my own. I hike up Ascot Hills, East of downtown. Time goes by. People are sweating from their afternoon runs; parents lift their children up to play, couples who want peace and quiet sit on the bright blue graffiti rocks dotted around. Men stand by with large DSLR cameras, waiting patiently for the sunset.

Behind me, the sun is getting colder; the

10 tips for first timers in Los Angeles

Trekking in the Hollywood Hills to see the fabled sign (above)

A different world: The Ascot Hills (below) reveal a different side of Los Angeles

sky is filled with every colour imaginable.

Behind me, the ground is black with ash.

Dark teal colours, a stark contrast to the sky. Forest fires have ripped through acres of grass, through the trees. The ground is crunchy to walk on.

These hills feel far away from downtown. There’s beauty here.

There’s beauty downtown, but it’s quieter up here. I’ve worn the wrong shoes and so choose to sit and do nothing more. A little girl nearby starts to sing her songs that she’s learnt in school. Confidently, she tells her sister: “I’ll show you how it’s done.”

It’s a very strange feeling. A feeling where you’re seeing something for the first time, and you just can’t work it out.

What happened here? What are these strange colours; why is the grass tinged with blues? Aftermath, alien like. Why is the Earth blackened? There are two worlds here as the ground has been engulfed in flames from the recent forest fires.

Los Angeles. How do I describe you?

As I sit and type, deep in thought, I am still yet to come to a conclusion. There’s

history here, like a vinyl playing on a turntable. There’s a slight crackle, a rasp, a sensation within the music that would make you scrunch your nose; smell the gritty notes. It’s like a hidden underground jazz bar, a world you long to explore. Los Angeles demands your heart and soul, time and patience. Without fight, there is danger to be eaten alive. Los Angeles is for those who dare to dream.

1. Public transport is not often used due to crime.

As a young female, I used Lyft (Uber equivalent) for easy, cost effective transport 2. Expect traffic. Los Angeles is infamous for this 3. Explore, get lost. The hidden restaurants are always best. Local, beautiful food 4. Experience a hot yoga class 5. Remember appropriate footwear, hiking is a must for the views 6. Explore an organic, healthy lifestyle. LA is the place to be for this 7. Save money for this trip. LA lifestyle can be expensive 8. Always carry a business card if looking to meet new people, a perfect way to make contacts in an industry 9. Tipping servers is a necessity and considered extremely rude if forgotten 10. Smile. There is serious competition here. A first impression can be lasting One for luck – 11. Suncream! Even in the colder months, the sun will always shine

Exact Accounting Solutions Ltd • Accounts: management & year-end • Book-keeping • Payroll solutions • VAT returns • Income & corporate tax services • Business performance & strategy • Limited companies & partnerships • Sole traders: self-assessment

Phone: 01962 773536 or 07876 686761 Web: www.exactaccounting.co.uk Email: tim.hughes@exactaccounting.co.uk

Greenwood Therapies ALRESFORD

Jikiden Reiki, Holistic Massage and Bodywork Therapies, Hair Analysis Testing

07780 953143 www.greenwood-therapies.com carol@greenwood-therapies.com

Like to advertise with us?

Call Julia on

07462 155247

news

14 winchestertoday.co.uk

March 2018

SPECIAL IDEAS FOR A SPECIAL MUM Winchester Today rounds up the best days out for Mothering Sunday on March 11th AS Mother’s Day approaches there are plenty of reasons to enjoy places that are right on our doorstep - and explore the Hampshire corner of the South Downs National Park that spills into East Hampshire - around Chawton where Jane Austen lived.

Hidden away between the cathedral cities of Winchester and Chichester, its steep wooded hills and hidden valleys of watercress farms, lavender fields, vineyards, hop gardens and trout-filled streams, together with its pictureperfect villages and peaceful market towns, make it undoubtedly one of the loveliest parts of rural England.

Step back in time to prehistoric Britain at Butser Ancient Farm - a unique experimental archaeological site and fascinating day out - for a magical afternoon on Mothers’ Day (Sunday 11 March, 2-4pm, £12.50 per head). Visit the prehistoric houses and enjoy the warmth of the crackling fire, while the surrounding landscape begins to wake up for spring. From 2pm children can decorate a keyring for Mum under the wooden beams of the beautiful Saxon house, and visit the Roman villa where you are welcome to dress in costume.

Why not take a special photo in your Roman dress, reclining in luxury on the guest bed? At 3pm a delicious afternoon tea (suitable for vegetarians) will be served in the Iron Age roundhouse.

Spaces are limited and non-refundable.

Visit butserancientfarm.co.uk - or call 02392 598838 to book.

Mid Hants Railway: Enjoy a visit back to the heady days of steam and enjoy a traditional cream tea on board a steam train at the Watercress Line! (11 March, £25 for adults, £20 for children over 5 years only. The Mother’s Day cream tea train departs from Alresford station at 2.40pm, cream tea includes 2 home-made scones for adults, 1 for children, with butter, jam, cream and tea or coffee).

These popular Mother’s Day trains are a lovely way to celebrate with all the family and, for those mums who travelled in the days of steam, a great way to share those memories. watercressline.co.uk Grayshott Pottery: Spend a unique day at one of southern England’s few remaining working potteries, Grayshott Pottery. See creations come to life, up close and take away a unique gift to use daily and admire eternally. Browse the Emporium of beautiful items and enjoy a special Mother’s Day meal in the Kiln Café. (11 March, £19.95 per person for a main course, dessert, with tea or coffee to finish. Main meal includes a choice of lamb, chicken, fish or a vegetarian dish. Full menu to be found at grayshottpottery.com Booking is required for slots between 11.30am and 2.30pm. To secure a place phone 01428 604 404 or ask a member of staff within the Kiln Café).

Langrish House: Or visit one of the area’s lovely country house hotels, deep in the heart of the countryside – the familyowned Langrish House - and indulge in a very special 3-course Mothering Sunday Lunch (11 March, 29.95 per person, £15 per child under 12 with small gift for every lady) in Fredericks 2 Rosette fine dining restaurant. Think of choices of Jerusalem artichoke soup, truffle, Ballantine of salmon wrapped in fresh herbs, fromage blanc and avruga caviar, duck and guinea fowl terrine, home-made piccalilli, followed by roast sirloin of Scottish beef, cod fillet or feuillete of wild mushrooms and some wonderfully indulgent puds including warm chocolate moelleux, pistachio soufflé or a selection of tasty cheeses!

Follow this up with a wander through

Amazing views of the South Downs and gardens at Uppark (above) photo: Andrew Butler © The National Trust

the beautiful gardens that surround the house. langrishhouse.co.uk

Stay close to nature!

It’s Mum’s turn for a sleepover! For a night never to be forgotten, experience a Mother’s Day Sleepover at the home of the eighteenth-century pioneering ecologist and author Gilbert White, now a fascinating museum and gardens.

Children can bring their mothers along to an exciting evening of nature activities at the Gilbert White Field Studies Centre and sleep in the heated 16th Century barn. (10 March 6pm-8am. £25 – ticket includes one free accompanying adult.

Children must be 5+ years old. All materials, refreshments and breakfast included). And for an early treat enjoy a carpet of snowdrops in the garden on Snowdrop Weekend (17 and 18 February starting at 10.30am). gilbertwhiteshouse. org.uk Chawton House, former home of Jane Austen’s brother Edward, is hosting a spring hand-tied bouquet Floristry Workshop with the owner of Orchard Flowers – the perfect Mother’s Day treat! Let Mum and others come and learn the secrets from a master florist on how to create a beautiful hand tied bouquet using seasonal flowers and foliage. (9 March, 9.30am -12.30pm. All materials are included and all equipment will be provided to create a beautifully presented spring bouquet to keep. £50 per person. Tea, coffee and biscuits are also provided in the price). To extend the experience why not visit the tea room for light refreshments and take a tour around the beautiful house and gardens. Also at Chawton House there’s a National Gardens Scheme Snowdrop Day (25 February), an exhibition of Pens, Paintbrushes and Pioneers: Portrait of a Woman Writer, based around the portraits of four pioneering women writers: Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, Mary Robinson, Maria Graham and Jane Austen (5 March – 21 March) as well as Rose- Pruning workshops (6 and 13 March). For information on these and other workshops and events visit https:// chawtonhouse.org/whats-on/ The Sustainability Centre offers courses and workshops which make great and unusual gift experiences for family and friends, yourself and of course Mum for Mother’s Day! Simply book online or download a voucher. Opportunities

Cream teas on the Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line (above); Fine dining in Fredericks restaurant at Langrish House (left)

Enjoy a special Mother’s Day meal in the Grayshott Pottery Kiln Cafe

include creating your own Willow Sweet Pea Baskets, learning all about Bushcraft Survival (overnight course), Kitchen gardening, Cordial Making using hedgerow ingredients, starting your own medicine chest from foraged herbal finds, Furniture Painting and Upcycling, learning Willow Craft Skills an exploration into the traditional art of Blacksmithing, making natural cosmetics and more! For a full roundup of courses and workshops visit sustainability-centre.org/ Butser Ancient Farm also offers a variety of learning opportunities including making a milkmaid’s stool or a Roman sword, flint-knapping, pit-fired pottery, an introduction to bee-keeping, learning the basics of working with silver, Autumn foraging and more.

There are two National Trust properties in the area that Mothers may love! Hinton Ampner, a quintessentially English country house set in beautiful undulating gardens comes into its own in Spring. The gardens, parkland, café and shop are all open, the house remains closed due to essential work being done to the electrical systems. Check website for re-opening information. nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner And Uppark, set on top of the South Downs, where both house and gardens afford amazing views across the Channel, offers another wonderful day out. The gardeners at Uppark have planted lots of new spring bulbs, which will produce gorgeous colour in time for Mother’s Day. nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark For something a little bit different why not take Mum to Birdworld. On Mother’s Day, Mums can enter the park for free with one other full paying person. (11 March, 10am – 4.30pm) Simply print off the voucher from the Birdworld website bird world.co.uk and present it at the admissions counter when purchasing your tickets. (Please Note: this offer is not valid with online tickets, Annual Passes, Tesco vouchers, or any other offer).

And finally, until August Jane Austen’s House Museum will be marking the 200th anniversary of the publication of Northanger Abbey and Persuasion.

Between February and Austen the focus is on Northanger Abbey, with a display on Family and Friendship. Displays throughout the Museum, featuring newly acquired treasures, will explore this theme in both Northanger Abbey and in the lives of the Austen family. Come and discover how attending society balls, writing letters and reading novels played a role in the lives of these real and imagined characters. jane-austens-housemuseum.org.uk

16 winchestertoday.co.uk

the final word

March 2018

✁

★ ★★WINCHESTER TODAY ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ COMMUNITY AWARDS ★ ★ We’re very proud to announce the Winchester Today Community Awards, designed to recognise the most talented and caring people in Winchester and beyond.

We invite your nominations for the awards that you can vote for in the following categories:

EDUCATION Best Pre-School Teacher (Winchester District).........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Best Primary School Teacher (Winchester District).............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Best Senior School Teacher (Winchester District). ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Best College Teacher (Hampshire). .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Best University Lecturer (Hampshire). ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

CUSTOMER SUPPORT Best Independent Shop Winchester District.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Best Chain Store Winchester District..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BUSINESS Best Local Business - Winchester District.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

ATTRACTIONS Best Attraction in Winchester.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Best Attraction in Hampshire..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

CHARITY Best Charity in Hampshire..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Your Name and Email Address. ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

(This will not be used for any purpose other than this project)

Rules: All nominations must be for people who live or work in Winchester District Area - except where indicated in the College/University/Attraction/Charity categories.

The awards cover the timescale 1 Jan - 31 December 2017. Nominations can be submitted by post to Winchester Today, Suite 123, 80 High Street, Winchester SO23 9AT - or by email to news@winchestertoday.co.uk - the closing date is Friday 23 March 2018. You cannot vote for yourself.

One entry per person/education establishment/business. Good Luck!

✁

Please cut out this entry form and send it to Winchester Today, Suite 123, 80 High Street, Winchester SO23 9AT or email it to news@winchestertoday.co.uk by Friday 23 March 2018.