Watercress Festival 2015 (page 58 & 59)
Transcription
Watercress Festival 2015 (page 58 & 59)
A L R E S F O R D & I T C H E N VA L L E Y FORUM Watercress Festival 2015 (page 58 & 59) • Hampshire People speaks to Jack Stein (page 54) • • Hampshire Hogs (page 60) Just one simple question (page 74) • • May news and events Lots of new articles and features M AY 2 0 1 5 • I S S U E 1 0 2 • W W W. A L R E S F O R D F O R U M . C O . U K • 1 5 , 5 0 0 R E A D E R S * OLD ALRESFORD BIGHTON PRESTON CANDOVER GUNDLETON TICHBORNE ITCHEN ABBAS & STOKE ROPLEY & ROPLEY DEAN MARTYR WORTHY BRAMDEAN BISHOP’S SUTTON AVINGTON CHERITON & NEW CHERITON EASTON HINTON AMPNER NORTHINGTON BEAUWORTH 1 Phoenix for Air Conditioning With summer just around the corner let us carry out a FREE performance check on your Air Conditioning. An inefficient system will be less effective and will have to work harder, putting more strain on your engine and using more fuel. We have a full service and repair centre here at Phoenix, so why not call to arrange your FREE check and let us help you keep cool and save yourself pounds this summer. Call today: 01962 736343 www.phoenixautoservicesltd.co.uk Free local collection and delivery service 2 PHOENIX AUTO SERVICES LTD, PROSPECT ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9QF Every Monday Alresford Community Choir Meets every Monday during school term time, 7.30 – 9.30pm at St. John’s Church, Alresford. Visitors welcome. Visit: www.alresfordchoir.com £12 (half price for those in full time education). Online:-www. musicinromsey.ticketsource.co.uk or Romsey Tourist Information OfficeTelephone: 01794 512987 Orchestra leader Elizabeth Flower Every Tuesday Children’s Storytime Afternoon during term time 2.15 to 2.45pm. Alresford Library, Broad Street, Alresford, SO24 9AQ. Alresford.library@hants.gov.uk Wednesday 13 May Alresford and District Horticultural Society "Pelargoniums" - Roger Butler. Held at St Gregory's Hall, Grange Road, Alresford at 7.30pm. www.alresfordhorticultural.org Every Tuesday New Class - Dance in a circle Come along and learn folk dances from round the world. Have fun and experience the peaceful joy that these traditional dances bring. Open to women and men of all ages and abilities. From 8 - 9.30pm, Alresford Community Centre, £7 per class. Contact: Mira on: 07746 416526 Until Sunday 3 May Winchester Chamber Music Festival Join the London Bridge Trio and guests for 4 days of fabulous concerts in the heart of Winchester at St Lawrence Church, Discovery Centre and Theatre Royal. Full information and listings available at www.winchesterchambermusic. com. Tickets available from Winchester Discovery Centre on 01962 873 603 Saturday 9 May Cha Cha and Rumba Workshop From 4pm - 7pm at Preston Candover Village Hall, RG25 2EE. Ever wanted to learn how to Cha Cha & Rumba Club Style? Then join us at another one of our popular Dance Workshops in the beautiful Candover Valley! Our style of Cha Cha & Rumba will enable you to dance it anywhere, at any Party, Wedding or Function! £20 pp/ £35 couple. For details and bookings: Silvia & Max Salsa y Sol Dance & Yoga www.dancingwinchester.co.uk Saturday 9 May Winchester & County Music Festival concerts 2015 For full details go to www.wcmf. org.uk. Romsey Abbey by kind permission of the Vicar and in association with Music in Romsey Handel: Messiah - Conductor: Derek Beck. Alison Hill - Soprano Rozanna Madylus - Contralto. Matthew Long - Tenor Jamie Hall - Bass. Itchen Valley Choral Society, Overton Choral Society, Twyford Singers. Tickets: £22, £16 and Thursday 14 May Charity Fashion Show Southampton Hospital Charity are holding an L K Bennett fashion show at the Grande Cafe, Southampton from 7.00pm. Tickets cost £25 and include a three course dinner, Michael Bublé tribute, and goodie bag. Book online or call 023 8120 8881. http://www. southamptonhospitalchar ity.org Thursday 14th May Charity Tennis Tournament in aid of Home-Start Winchester At a court near you, with lunch at Compton Tennis Club SO21 2AB Play as an individual, group or court of eight players. Shopping opportunities and free Reflexology sessions available. Donation £25 per player, includes two course picnic lunch. (Bring chairs or rugs, nonplayers welcome for lunch). Book with Kerry Coleman on 07748 978652 or email kerry@bigbale. co.uk Friday 15th May Wine Tasting and Quiz in aid of the Ropley Church Appeal From 7pm in Ropley Parish Hall, SO24 0DU. Simon Evans of The Naked Grape will lead an evening of wine tasting with a light hearted quiz about wine. Tickets £10 (to include light refreshments). Phone 01962 773603, 772246, 772345 or 773666 (The Courtyard Shop) to buy your tickets now. This event is being organised by The Ropley Society and The Friends of St Peter's Church. Saturday 16 May Cheriton Singers present A Night On Broadway At St. Michaels Church, Cheriton at 7.30pm. Programme to include Highlights from Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story, Chicago and Oliver. Guest singers: Cheriton Primary School. Tickets cost £10 with under 16’s free. For further information please visit cheritonsingers.com. www. Saturday 16th May Bramdean Fete From 2pm to 4.30pm. Bramdean House Gardens, SO24 OJU. Traditional stalls and more plus children's races. Enjoy a classic village fete in these inspiring and beautiful gardens, featured in many horticultural books. Admission Adults £1, children under 16 free. Saturday 16 May Winchester & County Music Festival concerts 2015 Winchester Cathedral from 7.30pm by kind permission of the Dean and Chapter. Brahms: A German Requiem. Parry: Blest Pair of Sirens Conductor: John Sutton. Helen Bailey - Soprano Andrew de Silva - Baritone. Botley Choral Society, Compton & Shawford Festival Choir, Sarisbury Choral Society, Winchester City Festival Choir. Tickets: £30, £22, £16 and £10 (half price for those in full time education). Winchester Cathedral Box Office: 01962 857275, email boxoffice@winchester-cathedral. org.uk or visit www.winchestercathedral.org.uk Orchestra leader Elizabeth Flower Sunday 17 May Alresford Watercress Festival From 10 - 4pm. Town Centre. A free fun day out for all the family. This nationally acclaimed annual festival draws together the local community and food-lovers from far and wide. The entire centre of New Alresford in Hampshire becomes a huge street festival and food market, showcasing the very best local producers. www. watercressfestival.org. See pages 58 and 59. Friday 19 June Wine and Dine in Style with a Charity Auction in aid of Home-Start Held at Old Alresford Place, SO24 9DH commencing at 7.30pm. Tickets £50 (Cheques payable to 'PCC of New Alresford') available from St John's Parish Office and Six West, West Street, Alresford. For more information please email: events@stjohnsalresford.org.uk or ring the parish office: 01962 733545. Dress code: Black Tie. Wednesday 27 May Alresford Art Society Gareth Watling demonstrates bird portraits in acrylic. 7.30 pm. Alresford Recreation Centre. For more information: Tel: 01962 736397, Email: jo.may@live.co.uk or visit www.artsociety.alresford.org FO R U M | DIARY DATES DIARY DATES Saturday 13th June 23nd Alresford Festival of Toy Trains 2015 Perins School, Pound Hill, Alresford SO24 9BS. From 10.30am-4.30pm. 20+ Layouts incl Hornby O, Dublo, Wrenn, Tri-ang 00, TRIX, Tomy, LEGO, Lone-Star, Bowman: 80 + Sales Tables, Music, BBQ, Beer. Adults £5 Children £3 Family £14, Early Entry to Sales Hall 9am (£10.00).bob.leggett@tesco.net 01962 733475 www.alresford-toytrains.org.uk Monday 25th May Garage Sale From 10.00am - 12noon. 5 Elm Road, Alresford. Come and grab a bargain! Includes the sale of: Sofa, Sofa Bed, Extending Table and 8 Chairs (all reasonable offers considered), Pictures and Ornaments, Books and Bric-a-brac Percentage of proceeds going to 345 Preschool and Tichborne Park Cricket Club Wednesday 13th to Saturday 16th May The Old Alresford Dramatic Society (TOADS) Present a new spring format with a Theatre Supper and Murder Mystery evening; 'Sudden Death At Old Alresford Manor.' Set in the 50s as a BBC radio play you are invited to take a light supper, enjoy drinks throughout the evening and witness some ‘funny goings on’ as the audience seeks to uncover the perpetrator of the dastardly deed. Complete with newsreader, the TOADS cast (in character), will mingle with the audience asking questions and deriving clues! Expect jokes, japes and general jollity. Tickets just £12pp incl Ploughman’s supper. Box Office 01962 736257 or email boxoffice@oa-toads.org.uk If you would like to add an item to our diary dates send your copy to editor@ forumpublications.co.uk. Monday 25 May Ropley Pram Race From 11am. Ropley Village 50th An extra special event is planned. 3 FO R RU UM M || NEWS WELCOME FO & VIEWS WELCOME Welcome to the May Issue of The Forum, an exciting one for two reasons as we enjoy both the return of our annual Watercress Festival and the introduction of two new features to the magazine! On May 17th, Alresford fairly bulges with visitors from far and wide, flocking to enjoy this increasingly popular festival to celebrate our local, little green plant! Within our pages you will also find lots of other local fayres, shows and events happening this month. This issue also welcomes the arrival of two new features, One Simple Question (p.74) and Hampshire Hogs (p.60) - we hope you enjoy them! The Forum team have well and truly settled in to our offices above Hellards, and as always, we welcome visitors to pop by and see us. We welcome new writers, feature suggestions, ideas and feedback positive or negative! We wish you a wonderful May - enjoy the Watercress Festival and remember to get your copy to us by May 18th for the June issue! EDITOR 14 Mark Tubb editor@forumpublications.co.uk ADVERTISING/EDITORIAL T: 01962 735137 E: marketing@forumpublications.co.uk Office Hours: 9am - 5pm MARKET SQUARE EDITOR Emma Sumpster emijay1970@me.com COPYWRITER Gill Grant gill@forumpublications.co.uk DESIGN Luminata Design design@luminata.co.uk ACCOUNTS Sue Messa accounts@forumpublications.co.uk PUBLISHING Forum Publications Ltd 11 Broad Street, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9AR The Alresford Forum contains facts, views, opinions, statements, recommendations, advertisements and other content and links to external websites not owned or controlled by the magazine. The Alresford Forum takes reasonable efforts to include accurate, current information on its pages, but make no warranties or representations as to the accuracy, safety or value of the published items that are displayed. No liability or responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions in magazine content. The Alresford magazine content does not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or recommendations of its creators and any reliance upon its content is taken at the user’s sole risk. Adverts designed by Forum Publications remain the magazine's legal ownership. © Forum Publications Ltd, 2015 4 NEWS & VIEWS 03 06 14 16 16 22 22 22 30 30 30 32 32 32 36 38 38 46 76 78 Diary Dates Church Services and News The Alresford Society - A vital message from the (fairly) silent majority in Alresford The Sleep Retreat South Downs Green Fair 2015 Alresford Voluntary Care Group need to recruit new drivers Meon Valley Guides big sleep out Cycle ride from Wells to Winchester Cathedral Big Sleep Out Winchester New Forest Spring Fair 2015 Alton Walking Festival 2015 Rotary International of Britian and Ireland youth speaks competition 2015 Tesco Express charity stall Alresford Rotary 10K Collaborate homes launch new group self-build initiative Serv Wessex Alresford Eel House development Watercress Line wins grant to restore its flagship engine Alresford Chamber of Commerce News Rum's Eg: Arts and crafts workshops OTHER 48 50 66 Clubs and Societies Useful Information Clubs and Societies FEATURES 20 24 54 58 60 68 Alresford Town Council Reports Hampshire Mum - Sparkles and Spuds Hampshire People speaks to Jack Stein Watercress Festival 2015 Hamoshire Hogs (New Feature) Just turn it off? What do you think? FO R U M | CONTENTS 46 24 58 54 62 74 78 Just one simple question (New Feature) Alresford & District Neighbourhood Watch MOTORS 2, 46, 47, 49, 51 THE GARDEN 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13 08 08 12 Chris Nutt's Gardening Column Pro-grow soil conditioner Objects of Desire PARENT & CHILD 10 THE HOME 15, 17, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 80 HEALTH & BEAUTY 26, 27, 28, 29 26 28 29 Bluebird Care is 'getting loud about MS' Alresford Surgery News Bluebird Care look forward to seeing you at the 2015 Watercress Festival PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 31 ESTATE AGENTS 31, 33, 34, 35 BUILDING SERVICES 36, 37 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 38, 39 I.T SERVICES 39 FASHION & RETAIL 39, 40, 41, 42, 43 40 42 The Market Square New Emporium in Christchurch with over 80 small businesses - a small indoor shopping village LEISURE & ENTERTAINMENT 44, 45, 46 44 45 45 Sparsholt College Countryside Day The Hampshire Country Fair Alresford Music Festival 2015 EDUCATION 52, 53 52 52 52 Local boy from Cheriton wins scholarship Patchwork celebrates after Ofsted inspection Introducing the new member of the DOFE team FOOD & DRINK 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 62 54 56 58 62 Hampshire People speaks to Jack Stein Hampshire's chocolate makers impress Watercress Festival 2015 Hampshire farmer's markets' celebrates national picnic week LEGAL & FINANCIAL 61, 63, 65, 66, 67, 69, 70, 71 ANIMAL & PET SERVICES 64 64 Biting the hand that feeds you - common reasons for aggression in rabbits ARTS, CRAFTS & MUSIC 70, 72, 74 70 72 72 74 Opera at Rotherfield Park, East Tisted Good causes concert at St.John's Church, Alresford The best kept secret in Hampshire The Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery, Alton HOME SERVICES 73, 75, 76, 77, 79 5 FO R U M | CHURCH SERVICES CHURCH SERVICES ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST New Alresford Sunday 3 May 08.00 Holy Communion 09.30 Sung Eucharist 18.00 Sundays@Six Sunday 10 May 08.00 Holy Communion 09.30 Second Sunday Family Service 18.00 Choral Evensong Sunday 17 May 08.30 Sung Eucharist Sunday 31 May 08.00 Holy Communion 19.30 Good Causes Concert Parish Office 01962 733545 stjohnsalresford.org.uk ST.MARY'S Old Alresford Sunday 3 May 09.30 Holy Communion Sunday 10 May 09.30 Parish Communion Sunday 24 May 09.30 Parish Communion Sunday 31 May 09.30 Benefice Service Thursdays 09.00 Holy Communion - Old Alresford Place ST.PETER'S Ovington Sunday 3 May 10.00 First Sunday Sunday 10 May 10.00 Parish Communion Sunday 24 May 10.00 Mattins METHODIST CHURCH New Alresford Sunday Worship 10.30 Every Sunday, 6 Morning Worship and Junior Church. Holy Communion, monthly. Please note that there will be no regular Sunday evening services Fridays 18.30 Youth Club (years 5 Midday Prayers every week Monday-Avington, TuesdayItchen Abbas, WednesdayMartyr Worthy, ThursdayEaston Midweek Activities Tuesdays 10.00 Come in for coffee 19.45 Youth Club Saturdays 09.00 (2nd in each month) with Pause for Thought (1st & 3rd) Wednesdays 07.00 Men’s Breakfast, bible reflection & prayer 14.30 1st & 3rd Thursdays Women’s Fellowship Thursdays 19.00 (term time) Guides 19.30 1st Thursday Lydia Group for ladies Fridays 14.30 Fridays (term time) KIDZ Café for parents, carers, babies and toddlers group. Craft, playtime, story time and special events (years 7,8,9) Prayer Time ALL SAINTS ST.GREGORY'S New Alresford Bighton Sunday 3 May 11.00 First Sunday Sunday 10 May 11.00 Holy Communion Sunday 17 May 11.00 Morning Prayer Sunday 24 May 11.00 Holy Communion ITCHEN VALLEY BENEFICE Sunday 3 May 08.00 Avington Contact: Revd Dawn Carn: Tel: 01962 735278 www.alresfordmethodist church.org.uk and 6) Parish Communion Holy Communion 10.00 Martyr Worthy Holy Communion 11.00 Itchen Abbas Mattins Every Sunday 11.00Mass All other enquiries: 01962 852 804 UPPER ITCHEN BENEFICE Sunday 3 May 09.00 Bramdean Benefice Early Communion 10.15 Cheriton Benefice All Age Service Sunday 10 May 08.30 Beauworth Holy Communion 09.30 Cheriton Rogation Service NEW FARM CHAPEL 18.00 Itchen Abbas 10.30 Tichborne Healing and Wholeness 11.00 Kilmeston Alresford Sunday 10 May 08.00 Easton Sunday Services 10.30 Morning Worship, Holy Communion Rogation Service Family Service Sunday 17 May 08.30 Tichborne 10.00 Itchen Abbas with creche and KOSMIC for children 16.30 Will vary between talk or discussion with praise and prayer 09.30 Cheriton 10.00 Easton Midweek Activities Mondays 16.30 Kidz Club Tuesdays 10.15 Toddlers Group Wednesdays 14.30 Senior Citizens 09.30 Beauworth Group 19.30 Alternate Bible Study / Prayer Parish Communion Holy Communion 1800 Martyr Worthy 11.00 Hinton Ampner Evensong Sunday 17 May 08.00 Martyr Worthy Holy Communion Parish Communion Holy Communion Prayer and Praise Sunday 24 May 09.30 Cheriton Holy Communion 1800 Avington 11.00 Kilmeston Evensong Sunday 24 May 08.00 Itchen Abbas Holy Communion 10.00 Martyr Worthy Parish Communion 1800 Easton Taize Thursdays 10.00 Home Prayer Group 19.00 Encounter Praise Sunday 31 May 08.00 Easton Time 10.00 Avington Holy Communion Holy Communion Family Holy Communion 11.00 Bramdean Family Worship Sunday 31 May 09.30 Hinton Ampner Benefice Holy Communion FO R U M | GARDEN ROPLEY TREES PROFESSIONAL TREE CARE SINCE 1987, SPARSHOLT TRAINED FULLY QUALIFIED AND INSURED CALL LYNDN GAUNTLETT: TEL 01962 791180 WASP NEST TREATMENTS DON’T GET STUNG! CALL FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE NOW FOR ALL YOUR PEST CONTROL NEEDS: Wasps, Bees, Rats, Mice, Moles, Cluster Flies, Squirrels, Cockroaches, Rabbits, Pigeons, Bird-Proofing, Emergency Wasp Nest Treatments, Mole Trapping Specialist Call Peter Chivers on: 01256 389124 or Mobile: 07803 096642 ALL AREAS COVERED ALL AREAS COVERED PETER CHIVERS PCS WINNER Please visit our website for all the latest news, information, second-hand machines for sale; and special offers in the showroom Garden Machinery Dealer of the Year 2014 Laceys Farm, Bramdean Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0JT TEL: 01962 771800 steve.cann@btconnect.com www.georgecanngardenmachinery.co.uk BPCA MEMBER - FULLY INSURED 9 STENBURY DRIVE, PRESTON CANDOVER, BASINGSTOKE MATURE�WORLD�TREES for ambitious�landscaping�projects We supply BIG PROJECTS such as town & country estates with BIG PLANTS for hedging, screening and landscaping and pass on BIG SAVINGS as we beneet from our freight company heritage TRADE AND RETAIL ENQUIRIES WELCOME - NO ORDER TOO SMALL NOW OPEN HAND PICKED NEW STOCKBRIDGE DISPLAY SITE NOW OPEN - STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT YOUNG MATURE BRITISH MEDITERRANEAN PLANTING CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR THE LATEST STOCK WHICH IS REPLENISHED MONTHLY. OVERSEAS SITE VISITS ARRANGED Call Harko on 07712 191120 or Freephone 0800 334 5552 www.worldtrees.co.uk WORLDWIDE ______________________________ TREES�SHRUBS�AND�PLANTS Old Church House High Street, Stockbridge Hants SO20 6EX info@worldtrees.co.uk 7 FO R U M | GARDEN THE GARDEN CHRIS NUTT'S GARDENING COLUMN I was recently talking to a friend and said that I had treated myself to some tickets to Chelsea this year, someone who overheard the conversation looked at me rather strangely and said that they didn’t know I was into Football! I’m not of course - the only Chelsea for me is the Chelsea Flower Show and I can thoroughly recommend it to anyone who has not visited before, it is a great source of inspiration for anything garden related. Last year I was invited to assist in the construction of a show garden and duly helped out for a day, it was a fascinating day seeing the trials and tribulations behind the scenes and seeing the designers at work (some more than others). One of the designers who impressed was Jo Thompson who was completing two show gardens one winning gold and the other silver gilt, this year her show garden will be on main avenue and features a writing retreat and swimming pond it will definitely be one to look out for. Jobs for the month ahead: • The “Chelsea chop” is executed at the end of the month to late flowering perennials such as Anthemis, Echinacea, Helenium, Phlox, Sedum (upright forms) and Solidago. This means cutting back some of the perennial growth by a third to half creating shorter plants that require less staking.You could also prolong the flowering season if you have more than one plant and cut back some and leave others. • Dead head any spring flowering bulbs to make sure all the energy is put into building large bulbs for next year and not seed, and leave the foliage to die down. If the flowering of any bulbs was poor lift them and only replant the large bulbs with some compost to improve the soil. • Now is the time to put in plants • Supports for any perennials with tall flower stems that need extra support such as Delphiniums and those with heavy blooms like Paeonias (Peonies). This can be in the form of purpose made supports or you could use twiggy sticks bent over the plant which quickly disappear beneath lush growth. • Once the risk of frost has finished plant out runner beans, planted with a simple wigwam of bamboo canes they will quickly get going. • Sweetcorn and squashes can also be planted outside towards the end of the month. Finally don’t forget to sit down and admire your efforts at this glorious time of year! Chris Nutt: Garden Designer To contact Chris call: 0776 5692396 or email chris.nutt2@btinternet.com 8 PRO-GROW SOIL CONDITIONER P ro-Grow is a fine grade, peat free soil conditioner, made from green garden material generated by households throughout Hampshire. This product is rich in nutrients and essential trace elements, providing plants with an ideal growing medium. This soil conditioner has an open structure that will break down heavy clay soils and add humus to light sandy soils. It complies with the rigorous standards of the Soil Association’s certified product accreditation (Certificate Number I 4430) and is entirely natural, containing no added fertilisers. Where is Pro-Grow available? Online Pro-Grow soil conditioner can now be purchased online from www.pro-grow.com either for collection from 10 sites across the country or delivery. Bagged Pro-Grow soil conditioner can be purchased from Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) throughout Hampshire.To find your nearest HWRC, call 0845 603 5634 or visit www. hants.gov.uk/recycling. Home delivery Pro-Grow can be delivered to your home either in bags, or in bulk. Please call our Pro-Grow Co-ordinator on 0800 072 2369 for further information about ordering. Bulk Pro-Grow is also available in bulk for collection, and if required delivery can be arranged. Alternatively, visit your local composting site near Basingstoke or Winchester. For further information, telephone 0800 072 2369 or email: progrow@veolia.co.uk Tree Care and Woodland Management by Jacqui • Tree surgery / TPO applications • Hedge maintenance • Fencing / Garden structures • Woodland management / tree planting Designing Beautiful Gardens FO R U M | GARDEN Gardens Chris Matthews Please call for a free consultation Mob: 07724 451040 Qualified in arboriculture and countrsyide management. 15 years experience www.gardensbyjacqui.co.uk jacqui@gardensbyjacqui.co.uk Tel: 01962 732498 Mob: 07879 448141 TRADITIONAL PEST CONTROL Design & Construction Driveways Paths Patios Water Features Pergolas Fencing Decking Daren George, your local mole catcher from Alresford offering a ‘No Mole - No Fee’ service for Domestic, Commercial and Agricultural properties Tel: 01962 771 479 Mob: 07879 651 065 Also offering a rabbit, rat, squirrel, fox and deer control service Fully insured - Discreet service assured at all times www.geminilandscapes.com Mobile: 07778 141505 Email: traditionalpestcontrol@gmail.com For all your garden needs Hard and Soft Landscaping Specialising in all your garden needs Fully insured . Free estimates Also specialising in Commercial gardening work. Hard Landscaping Patios . Raised Beds . Pathways Garden Walls . BBQ Areas . Garden Lighting . Fencing Soft Landscaping Lawn Care . Turfing . Planting . Hedge Cutting . Shrub pruning . Patio & gutter cleaning Tel: 01962 736261 Mob: 07896 027356 info@trimmers-garden-services.co.uk 9 FO R U M | PARENT & CHILD PARENT & CHILD BABYSITTERS / CHILDMINDERS Babysitter available for daytimes and evenings. 7 years experience as a nursery nurse, level 3 childcare diploma, CRB checked and current first aid certificate. Own transport. Tel: 07575069987 Babysitter / Childminder With own transport. Available mornings or afternoons for school collection, homework supervision and more in your own home. Evening babysitting on request. Mature and reliable with plenty of experience and excellent references. Tel: 07868786885 Kerry’s House Home from home childcare. Ofsted registered qualified childminder. Alresford area. Tel: 01962 732564/07799 821376 Nanny with 10 years experience Looking for full time work Excellent references. Call Sarah on 07827295859. Ofsted registered childminder Full time vacancies. Excellent references. Contact Kairen 07799 821376/01962 732564. CHILDREN’S GROUPS Alresford & Cheriton Scout Group Beavers (6-8 yrs) meet on Monday, Cubs (8-10 yrs) meet on Tuesday, Scouts (10-14 yrs) meet on Thursday and Explorers (15-18 yrs) meet on Wednesday, all at the Scout Hut off Bridge Road behind Perins playing field. Adult leaders required to join a successful and growing Group. Contact Group Scout Leader Roy Naismith on 01962 735607 or email gsl@alresfordcheritonscouts. org.uk Alresford After School Club For 4-11year olds, term time only from 3.30-6pm, we are now located in Sun Hill Infants and Junior Schools. For more information contact Angie on 01962 771709 or 07876 165592. 10 First Candover Scout Group Beavers (6-8yrs), Cubs (8-10yrs) and Scouts (10-14yrs). All meet on a Wednesday evening at Candover Valley Club, Brown Candover. For membership enquiries please contact Gwen via email at gwencwilcox@gmail.com. Girl Guiding Alresford District Rainbow Guides 5 - 7 years. Brownie Guides 7 - 11 years. Guides 10 - 14 years. Senior Section 14 - 26 years. Adults 18 - 65 years. Friends Of Guiding Group. Contact Jo Rodgers: 01962 772346 and join a thriving organisation. PRE-SCHOOLS 3.4.5 Pre-School Playing to Learn Located in the centre of Alresford and established since 1969, 345 is open 4 mornings a week (not Thursday) 9.15 – 12.15/1pm for children from 3 years. Our highly experienced and dedicated staff offer a caring, creative and exciting learning experience, both indoors and out.Very good OFSTED reports and continuity of staff. For more information: Contact Taryn Stroud on: 07826 948826 www.345preschool.org Busy Bees Pre-School Located in Bishops Sutton Village Hall, taking children from 2 years old. Also one of the only pre-school’s locally to take 2 year funded children in the area. We are a thriving pre-school with lovely grass & all-weather outdoor play spaces to give active youngsters the space they need to have fun and learn through play. As a pathfinder pre-school, we offer 15 hours per week Monday to Friday, including some lunchtimes. Our good Ofsted rating means your little ones will be very well taken care of & have oodles of play & activities to give them a good start for school. We feed into Sun Hill Infants, Ropley C of E & Cheriton C of E School. We are only 5 minutes outside of Alresford! Call Caroline Newman on: 07825 235201 (term time) www.busybeesbishopssutton.co.uk or email busybeespreschoolteam@ hotmail.co.uk Candover Valley Pre-School Candover Valley Pre-School is situated in the heart of the Candover Valley. Rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted, the pre-school accepts children from 2 years old (no need to be potty trained!). We are open from 8.45am to 3.15pm (Fri 8.45am11.45am). We have a full-time, highly qualified and experienced staff team, working with local schools (state and independent) to ensure smooth transitions to “Big School”. We accept Childcare Vouchers. Tel: 01256 389008 email:cvpadmin@btconnect.com www.candovervalleypreschool. hampshire.org.uk Cherry Tree Pre-School Housed in a purpose built bright building with the advantage of a recreation park and tennis court (fun professionally taught mini tennis is part of our children's outside play). We have our own secure play area and garden where the children can grow flowers and vegetables. At Cherry Tree we pride ourselves that our children learn through play and there is nowhere better equipped for that purpose. Our fully trained dedicated team ensure the children have a fun learning experience every single day. Good Ofsted report and excellent links with Sun Hill, Cheriton and all local schools. For more details please contact Jo Ferguson 07979230019 or visit cherrytreepreschool.org Meon Springs Montessori Inspirational Nursery for 2-5 yr olds. Ofsted Rated: Outstanding - Jan 13. Bramdean Village Hall, Wood Lane. Open 8am – 4pm daily. Funded places available Contact: Gemma O’Reilly: 07779 780228. www. meonspringsmontessori.co.uk Patchwork Day Nursery Perins School, Alresford. Full time day care, 8.00 - 6.00: 6 months to 5 years. N Baxter Tel: 01962 737251 Ropley Pre-School Ropley Pre-School offers sessions from 9am to noon Mon-Fri for children from 2 years 9 months, with an optional Lunch Club from noon to 1pm, in the Village Hall. We have Pathfinder status so offer 15 hours of free sessions for children of 3 and over. We provide a fun, friendly and stimulating learning environment with excellent links to local schools. Contact: Sarah Harry 07510 684055 during opening hours. Hummingbirds Bespoke Early Years Education Warm, welcoming, positive surroundings. Outdoor based learning. Small group sessions Music, French, Art, Drama, Science. Bramdean - www. hummingbirdsnursery.co.uk (01962) 771233 TODDLER GROUPS Chatterbox Baby & Toddler Group A drop-in parent and toddler group for babies, toddlers and pre-school children and their parents or carers. Thursdays 1011.30am all year round (including school holidays). John Pearson Hall, Alresford. Contact: Lee McMackland on: 07808 672432 or email chatterbox.alresford@ gmail.com Kidz Café Parent and carer baby and toddler group (0-5 year olds). Alresford Methodist Church, Jacklyns Lane, Fridays 2:30 - 4:00pm, during term time. Craft activities, play and story time. Contact Dawn Carr on 01962 735278 or Sarah Johnson on 01962 733453 Medstead Toddler Group Medstead Village Hall Thursday 9.30-11.30am during school term times. Contact: Julie Burton Tel: 01420 562546 Four Marks Mothers and Others Toddler Group Monday 1.00 - 3.00. Children under 5 with parent/carer. Gospel Hall, Four Marks. Contact Ruth: 01962 773482 Itchen Abbas Mother and Toddler Group Itchen Abbas Village Hall Wednesdays 10-12pm. Contact: Juliet on 01962 779365 or Vicky on 01962 860935 Ropley Baby & Toddler Group Meet on Wednesdays during term time from 9.15am to 11.45am in Ropley Coffee Rooms, next to the Village Shop. Under 5s. Please ring Ros Wynne 01962 773374 for details. Cheriton Baby & Toddler Group A drop-in playgroup in Cheriton Village Hall for under 5’s accompanied by a parent/carer. Mondays 2 - 3.30pm. Biscuit and drink offered and a selection of toys/games/crafts. A good opportunity to meet other mums/ carers in the area too. For more info call Jo 07946 032526. FO R U M | THE GARDEN C&D Trees All Tree & Hedge Care Sparsholt college trained & qualified Free advice & written quotations 15 years experience www.cdtrees.co.uk Telephone - 01962 738 420 - 07900 987 609 Bishops Sutton, Alresford KMB Fencing Contractor SPECIALISTS IN STUMP GRINDING, TREE WORK & THE SUPPLY OF LOGS All types of countryside contracting undertaken • Mobile Bandsawing Service • Brushwood Chipper Hire • Concreting • Hedge Cutting • Fencing PETER PAYNE 01962 733866 or 07778 170442 Complete Garden Construction Professional Garden Design & Construction LANDSCAPING & BRICKWORK SERVICES • GARDEN MAKEOVERS • PATIOS & DRIVEWAYS TURFING & FENCING • FLINTWORK • GARDEN MAINTENANCE (LAWNS , HEDGES ETC ) AND GARDEN CLEARANCE ALL WORK UNDERTAKEN BY EXPERIENCED LOCAL TRADESMEN LOCAL SHOW GARDENS & REFERENCES AVAILABLE COVERING ALL TYPES OF FENCING Please call for a quotation Tel: 07884 408690 OFFICE: 01962 735750 MOBILE: 07766 900092 geoff_amey@btinternet.com www.completegardenconstruction.co.uk 11 FO R U M | THE GARDEN GARDEN Objects of Desire May is the month when normally if you want to see what’s new in the gardening world, Chelsea flower Show is the place to go. However, a resident of Hampshire recently pointed out to Mike Hodges, Head Garden Designer of Hambrooks, “You have brought Chelsea to Hampshire!” A touch of the authentic Terracotta chimney pots create a focal point in herbaceous borders of cottage gardens and cast iron stags grace front doors or provide interest in a wide expanse of lawn. Weather worn olive oil pots add a touch of the authentic to areas laid with modern decorative aggregates, while the smooth curvy lines of a pair of white doves look spectacular against the geometric lines of a modern garden. New Levels This Hampshire resident was visiting the sixteen show gardens in Titchfield where Mike has been adorning the show gardens with fabulous and individual garden accessories. His selection of carefully chosen highly desirable objects clearly show that garden ornamentation has now reached new levels and you are no longer restricted to the standard pots and planters or classical statuary. Imagination Go Gothic Mike says,” The trick is to find items that compliment the style of garden whether it’s modern, traditional or a large country garden and use your imagination to make a real feature of it.” You can buy crumbling Gothic arches to cover in rambling roses or old apple crates to fill with summer colour. Original French shutters used to decorate an ordinary shed turn it from a functional building in your garden into an attractive feature. Vintage items such as metal prams and galvanised oval buckets serve as containers for prolific planting combinations or make small water gardens. So, no need to visit Chelsea this year, just pop into Hambrooks of Titchfield and see what objects of desire you can find to grace your garden! of Est. 45 years Titchfield 135, Southampton Road, Titchfield. PO14 4PR 01489 779998 www.hambrooks.co.uk 12 the unu the inte the diffe FO R U M | NEWS & VIEWS THE ALRESFORD SOCIETY A VITAL MESSAGE FOR THE (FAIRLY) SILENT MAJORITY IN ALRESFORD I t won't affect me... Perhaps that's what you think about the Local Plan for Alresford. But it very likely will, whichever part of town you live in, and there's even the possibility of ending up with NO PLAN at all. by-pass. No exit onto the Bishops Sutton Road either. So where does traffic go: along the self-same residential and distributor roads that the by-pass was built to alleviate? Look at the experience of Alton and East Hampshire District Council as a reminder of the dangers of having no agreed plan or just slow making progress. With limited powers to resist developers, EHDC is having to agree planning for extra housing, well beyond government requirements. Is the Winchester-preferred plan for Pearson's Down and The Dean perfect? Of course not; there are many questions still to be answered but assessment work has already been done on every available site and, as a result, these are proposed as offering the best long term strategy. . Pearson's Down is relatively straightforward: a huge site, single ownership, phased over c.7 years with the by-pass link going in first. The owner will gift 15 hectares of open space to the town - for play, a drop off zone to alleviate Sun Lane school traffic, allotments and so on. Could the same thing happen to Alresford? Winchester is duty bound to review seemingly reasonable alternative plans, such as the 'Alresford Professional Group' (APG) approach. But if you look at that option carefully, it seems a curious and risky game plan that potentially de-stabilizes the Winchester-preferred plan but offers nothing deliverable instead. Leading to NO PLAN? So why should we all be concerned about the alternative 'APG' approach? Any Local Plan has to be viable, sustainable (e.g. balance housing and local employment opportunities, and reduce car travel where possible) and deliverable. Self-evidently, for housing to be delivered the proposer must have the sites available. .APG suggests eight different housing sites across town but owners of five have not agreed inclusion of their property, whilst remaining sites cannot be accessed without permissions. Indeed, communication with the owners has been scant or even non-existent. .APG says 'no' to a new employment area and ergo, supporters think, no need for any link to the 14 Without this, what stops future development? .A new site for business premises with new job opportunities for existing and future residents, whilst the by-pass link saves extra traffic on residential roads. .The water, drainage and sewerage systems will be new, not feed into existing capacity. .It works well in conjunction with redevelopment of The Dean (also talked about for years). Two adjacent land holdings are offered for development here, ideal for housing for our elderly residents, close to shops and health care services, and some new parking. If you've supported the alternative plan, weigh up what it could mean to you and others. As the saying goes, 'Be careful what you wish for'. FO R U M | THE HOME FO R U M | NEWS & VIEWS NEWS & VIEWS THE SLEEP RETREAT Attendance at just one Retreat has proved successful in dramatically improving the sleep – and thus transforming the lives – of our clients. “I enjoyed immensely both the individual aspects of the week and the group sessions, which gave me great comfort and insight. On my last night I slept for 8 hours and missed breakfast – unheard of!” – Oliver Hawkins, Senior Executive, IBM “I think the group dynamic was very nurturing. I now have powerful tools to take back home with me and I feel much more refreshed. Thank you all for helping to make that possible” – Gail Smith, Teacher “Generally I wake up once an hour on a typical night, but I was amazed to get a full five and a half hours uninterrupted sleep. I thought the clock was wrong!” – Michael Gates, Associate Fellow, Said Business School, University of Oxford D o you lie awake at night? Do you worry about not sleeping? Do you feel exhausted during the day? Are you unable to concentrate at work? Wouldn’t it be wonderful… To sleep properly, to wake refreshed, to be able to give of your best during the day, and to be confident of each night’s good sleep? The quality of our sleep can determine the quality of our lives. Based in a 14th century country house, set in 70 acres of stunning Hampshire countryside, the Sleep Retreat has a remarkable track record of success in transforming people’s lives. The Sleep Retreat offers small groups of people integrated programmes of activities, in a wonderfully relaxing rural environment, to give you all of the tools you need to CHANGE your sleep for good…… . Clinical insight: our “science of sleep” psychologists consult with each client individually and in a group to explore their insomnia and ways forward. . Healthy, healing exercise: we offer massage, yoga, walking, cycling, tennis, golf, gym and sauna sessions, all focused on giving you better sleep. . Arts and aromatherapy: our social programme includes mostly evening opportunities to enjoy art, music, poetry and aromatherapy. . Nutritional excellence: our own specially selected chefs design menus that promote health, taste and of course, sleep. . Group dynamics: our clients tell us that the group interaction and communal sharing provide great comfort, support and enlightenment. . Environmental elegance: and all of this takes place in the most peaceful rural setting, in houses and gardens steeped in history. O soothest Sleep! If so it please thee, close In midst of this thine hymn my willing eyes – John Keats Sleep that knits up the ravelled sleeve of care – William Shakespeare Our Sleep Retreats are Full Week (Monday to Friday – five days, four nights) or Weekend (Friday to Sunday – three days, two nights). Company retreats: we also offer Sleep Retreats for company staff who would jointly benefit from better sleep, greater productivity and increased morale and teamwork. 16 “I just have so much more energy and I feel better overall. It’s almost uncanny how well I’ve been sleeping. Thank you for a wonderful week in Beautiful Hampshire, it’s already made such a difference for me” – Katharina If you recognise the vital importance of enjoying better sleep, please call us today to find out more and to discuss your individual needs confidentially and without obligation. The Sleep Retreat. Retreat, relax, relearn For more information visit: www.the-sleep-retreat.com Tel: 0800 640 9050 SOUTH DOWNS GREEN FAIR 2015 T he South Downs Green Fair. will be held on Sunday May 10th 2015 from 10am to 5pm. The fair will include plenty of activities for all the family, such as circus skills, belly dancing, campcraft demonstrations and outdoor cooking. It will be a fantastic day out for the whole family with plenty to do and see, whatever the weather.Whether you are looking for a family day out with a difference, or to connect with other local people involved in practical sustainability, or want to enjoy good music with beer and food thrown in, it's a day that promises all of that and more. A wide variety of free children's activities throughout the day will keep all ages busy and amused. Local food and drink stalls offering Fair Trade and organic wares and vegan and vegetarian meals from The Beech Cafe on site will keep all in food supply. Music from local and national bands, some of which appear at big festivals, will keep the day alive with music. Interesting presentations and talks from leading speakers on practical, greener ways of living will also be part of the day. Entrance Fee: £7.00 for adults (16+) & £3.00 for children For more information visit: https://sites.google.com/a/ southdownsgreenfair.org/south-downs-green-fair/ We wanted simple elegance, something understated that would not date. I like everything about ‘‘ it and how it has all come together. From the first meeting with Mark all the way through the whole process he delivered on time, liaised with the builders, kept to schedule and completed on time, returning to check everything was perfect. Mark and his team have been a real pleasure to deal with and we would highly recommend Beau-Port. Liz Burleton ’’ Creating beautiful fine bespoke kitchens handcrafted in Britain Contemporary, traditional and Shaker style Contemporary German kitchens by Rotpunkt New AGA kitchen showroom, plus Mercury and Falcon ranges Siemens and Bosch appliances Interiors Too! Bedrooms, bathrooms, home studies New media centre display New bespoke stand alone pantries Come and visit our 2000 sq ft showroom with a wide range of full size kitchens and interiors on display Celebrating 15 years of delivering design expertise and the very highest level of customer service www.beau-port-kitchens.com Beau-Port Ltd. 2 & 3 Bellhanger Business Park, Bentworth, Hampshire GU34 5QZ T: 0800 999 88 18 FO R U M | HEADING Individually designed for you - Affordability provided by us... FO R U M | THE HOME e clusive Double Glazing Ltd Alresford's Conservatory and Window Experts Under New Management UPGRADE YOUR WINDOWS & DOORS WINDOWS, DOORS, CONSERVATORIES • Supply & Installation • New Handles, Letterboxes, Locks • Broken Sealed-Units replaced OTHER SERVICES • Fascias, Soffits & Gutters • Key Cutting & Locksmith Services FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE CALL: 01962 732091 www.exclusive-double-glazing.co.uk sales@exclusive-double-glazing.co.uk SHELF HOUSE, NEW FARM ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9QE OPEN MON - SAT 9AM - 5PM FOLLY FARM, CRAWLEY, Beautiful bespoke handcrafted tables, chairs and furniture made to order 18 WINCHESTER, HANTS, SO21 2PH TEL: 01962 776687 BESPOKEOAKTABLES.COM FO R U M | THE HOME Tel: 01962 867540 OPEN 10AM - 4PM MONDAY - SATURDAY D I N C L VAT N L A S E R R A N G E F RO M £ 9 , 9 9 5 LE LE SS M AT T W H I T E H A I N S TA L L AT I O N AVA I L A B L E G E R M A N E N G I N E E R E D K I T C H E N S M A D E TO O R D E R M AT T B U R N T O R A N G E S P E E D R A N G E F RO M £ 9 , 9 9 5 I N C L VAT I N S TA L L AT I O N AVA I L A B L E G O TO O U R W E B S I T E TO S E E W H AT O U R C U S TO M E R S T H I N K WINCHESTER SHOWROOM FIND US HERE JUNC 9 MOO R ROASIDE D ABOVE BATHROOM WAREHOUSE, UNIT 3, WYKEHAM ESTATE, MOORSIDE ROAD, WINNALL, WINCHESTER, HAMPSHIRE, SO23 7RX TEL: 01962 867 540 EMAIL: INFO@ECO-GERMANKITCHENS.CO.UK VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW. ECO-GERMANKITCHENS.CO.UK M3 A34 N O ST EA LN TESCO STORE FO R U M | FEATURE ALRESFORD TOWN COUNCIL REPORTS website www.winchester. gov.uk/atoz/ is regularly updated. LOCAL PLAN PART 2 Winchester City Council will be holding meetings with the newly elected council in June to discuss key issues and to analysis all points to ensure that what is put forward is a plan which meets all prescribed criteria and is deliverable. The scheme indicated on the drawing is intended to form the first phase of the complete upgrading of West Street. WEST STREET The start date for the commencement of works on West Street has been issued as 18th May. DOG BINS As from the 1st April Winchester City Council has confirmed that dedicated dog fouling bins will stop. Dog waste can be disposed of in green bins. New Alresford recreation grounds experience problems with dog owners leaving their dog waste in the parks. We would like to urge you to use the bins provided and to encourage all dog owners to dispose of their waste responsibly. Owners are reminded that not picking up dog waste is an offense that carries a penalty. HANGING BASKETS This is the last reminder to order your Hanging Baskets. Letters have been delivered and the baskets will be going up in May in time for the Watercress Festival. ELECTIONS A poll for the election of Councillors for New 20 Alresford Town Council will be held on Thursday 7 May 2015 between the hours of 7.00 am and 10.00 pm. The number of Councillors to be elected is eleven. The names of all fifteen validly nominated Candidates are given below in alphabetic order:Atkins (Robin Vaughan) Barrett (Keith) Cattle (John David) Evans (Simon Lee) Gentry (Roy) Gower (Ben) Griffiths (Lisa Suzanne) Jeffs (Barbara) Jeffs (Ernest David) Kerr-Smiley (Sam) Pinch (Stephen Hugh) Power (Margot Julia) Rowe (Mark) Saunders (Annie) Spencer (Irene) THE A TO Z OF COMMUNITY SERVICES The Winchester City Council website has an A to Z of all community services available within the Winchester District. This MAY MEETINGS Time: 7.30pm Venue: Alresford Recreation Centre Full Town -14th May Recreation - 20th May All meeting dates are advertised on the Council Notice boards located in Broad Street and Mitford Road. It is advisable to check these boards as this is where any changes to scheduled meetings or additional meeting dates will always be notified. VIEWS If you have a view or an issue that you wish to express to the Council please call or write to:New Alresford Town Council, Town Offices, Alresford Recreation Centre, The Avenue, Alresford SO24 9EP. Tel: 01962 732079 email: skavanagh@ newalresfordtc.org.uk NEW ARC SUN BALCONY Come and sip wine on the arc sun balcony with one of the most panaramic views in hampshire. JAZZ AT THE ARC Monthly Jazz The first Wednesday of the month, from 8.30pm until 11pm, the ARC hosts Traditional Jazz bands. 6th May CUFF BILLETT’S NEW EUROPA JAZZ BAND Next month’s Jazz Wednesday 3rd June THE EXCELL JAZZMEN Tickets to Alresford residents are £8 on the door. The ARC has a 60” Television and the full Sky Sports package which shows all major sporting events. No membership is needed. Everyone welcome. We are now open for all your fencing supplies • • • • osts&rails P Featheredge Gates&gateposts RoundpostsinHC4&locally grownchestnut • F ittings&fixings • Bespokegatemanufacturers • Fencingcontractors&gate automationspecialists 5% trAde discOunt * Opening hours 7.30am – 5pm Monday to Friday All the materials you need for your fencing projects. We can deliver them too! *availablet ocr accountcus edit tomers James White Fencing & Gates Ltd, Appledown Lane, Alresford, Hants SO24 9PB 01962 732786 or email info@jameswhitefencing.com www.jameswhitefencing.com Beautiful kitchens & bathrooms as individual as you are. • It is second nature for us to provide beautiful interiors. • 3D visuals enable us to bring your concept to life. • Convenientlyprojectmanagedandfittedbyour skilled team. Call: 01420 544995 Visit: propertyperfection.com Unit12,OldAylesfieldBuildings,FroyleRoad,Shalden,AltonGU344BY Where reputation matters FO R U M | NEWS & VIEWS NEWS & VIEWS A L R E S FO R D VO LU N TA RY C A R E G R O U P N E E D TO RECRUIT NEW DRIVERS T he Alresford Voluntary Care Group (AVCG) was set up some 45 years ago to help local people get to their hospital, GP and other medical appointments, in particular for those who are elderly, infirm or just not able to drive.The group provides a valuable service to the local community currently carrying out some 900 journeys each year over half of which are to Alresford Surgery, with most of the remainder to the hospitals in Winchester, Southampton and Basingstoke. Most appointments are scheduled between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday. Volunteer drivers use their own cars, transporting people from their homes to their appointments, and where necessary, helping them to the appropriate department at the hospital or surgery. Drivers receive a hospital parking permit and a payment to cover their fuel costs, plus, of course, the satisfaction of knowing that they are providing a valuable community service and helping people less able than themselves. The ‘customers’ themselves make a donation towards the cost of fuel. The AVCG operates a ‘pool’ of drivers that can be asked to provide transport by one of the telephone co-ordinators; these are the volunteers that customers speak to when they need to arrange transport to the surgery or hospital. With the gradual reduction in home visits by GPs, and the cutting back of hospital transport services, the number of requested journeys continues to grow, possibly by as much as 20% this year alone. As a result, the AVCG urgently needs to recruit new drivers, so if you have a couple of hours to spare each month, and would like to help your local community, please contact 01962 734408 or 732695, or email david@casapequena.net to find out more about this worthwhile voluntary work. M E O N VA L L E Y G U I D E S BIG SLEEP OUT W e were delighted to hear from the MeonValley Guides again this year. They have supported our work with their annual Big Sleep Out in a local church for a few years now and it's always exciting to hear that their event hasn't lost momentum. 22 We received this email from Jo, one of the leaders / organisers; "The Meon Valley Guides held a Big Sleepout in St John the Baptist church on Friday 20 March. The stone floor and the church provided a nice chilly environment for the 38 Guides and 5 leaders who braved it! The Guides spent the evening building dens with cardboard boxes before trying to sleep, and then had a basic breakfast the next morning. Each Guide had to raise a minimum of £10 to take part and many have raised more than that." Jo also shared some photos with us and we are delighted that we have permission to share them with you too. Jo added; "We do have a lot of fun running this event and the Guides really enjoy themselves - as well as thinking about the homeless and supporting the charity." C YC L E R I D E F R O M W E L L S TO W I N C H E S T E R C AT H E D R A L T he Revd. Graham Bowkett, Rector of the Upper Itchen Benefice; which incorporates the six villages near Alresford Winchester, of Cheriton, Bramdean Kilmeston Hinton Ampner Tichborne and Beauworth, has gathered a dedicated team of enthusiasts (some not so enthusiastic) to cycle over two days, the 2nd and 3rd of May from Wells Cathedral in Somerset to Winchester Cathedral, here in Hampshire. The previous Bishop of Basingstoke, The Rt. Revd Peter Hancock, now Bishop of Bath and Wells will bless the ride and send them off on the first leg of the journey to Salisbury; where they will stay overnight, before setting off the next day for Winchester. In Salisbury the riders will be joined by some further enthusiastic riders destined for Winchester Cathedral, arriving safely in time to attend Evensong at 3.30pm. The ride is in aid of two excellent charities. First, Winchester Cathedral itself, in particular in response to a request for help by the Dean of Winchester Cathedral, James Atwell. This is for help with buying a new sound and lighting system. Secondly a Charity set up by the brother of one of the riders, ‘Walking with the Wounded’ a great Charity working with those in need following trauma after Military service. The riders hope to raise £6000 through generous giving for these great causes. If you wish to help you can come along to the Cathedral and welcome the riders as they arrive on the 3rd or you can donate on line using ‘Just Giving’ – search Graham Bowkett. FO R U M | THE HOME Wychwood Furniture Ltd Traditional & Contemporary Furniture SOME ARE READY... ARE YOU? Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms For beautiful bespoke furniture Free initial consultation Design & Installation www.wychwood-furniture.co.uk WYCHWOOD FURNITURE LTD, BLUERIDGE FARM, LOWER WIELD, ALRESFORD Tel or Fax: 01256 389788 SUMMER OFFER FREE PRODUCT UPGRADE * Messenger Marquees & Events O R D E R N O W. F I T T E D F O R S U M M E R . STYLISH MARQUEE HIRE & EVENT PACKAGES WITHOUT THE CELEBRITY PRICE TAG We are a local family run company providing Marquee Hire & Event Services The perfect setting for your next special occasion, corporate BBQ or charity garden party Marquee hire from £250 and complete event packages from £350 Please contact us for more information T: 01420 362445 messengermarquees@outlook.com www.messengermarquees.co.uk T 01962 710807 hi@thegreatshutterco.co.uk visit: w w w. t h e g r e a t s h u t t e r c o . c o . u k / summerready for more details. * All orders placed will be upgraded to a superior product grade free of charge. Maximum upgrade value £1,000. Home consultation must be booked by 15th May 5.00pm GMT and orders must be placed within 7 days to qualify for free of charge material upgrade. 23 FO R U M | FEATURE HAMPSHIRE MUM SPARKLES AND SPUDS I texted a photo to my friend, ‘You’re not actually going out in daylight wearing those are you?, came her reply. Well of course I wouldn’t! They were strictly for the privacy of my home. And so it was, I skipped around the house happy in the knowledge that no one would ever see them… but then one day... I was standing at the counter of our Market Town’s palace of coffee and cake, as I ordered my usual coffee and ‘tiny’ slice, I caught a glance of disbelief form a fellow coffee quaffer as her eyes fell upon my bright blue, glitter encrusted brogues; such is the comfort of my new secret foot attire that I had completely forgotten to take them off and thus was caught in public. I gave her a rye smile as if to say, “They are THE thing darling, didn’t you know?” It was liberating. I felt like I’d ‘come out’ in the shoe sense.’ My name is Sandra Pagan and I’m a sequin addict’. Like many things in my life currently I conclude that my Magpie tendency syndrome- being drawn to all things sparkly- is to do with burgeoning old age. But the good thing is, I care not a jot and now embrace my sparkles so, as long as it’s not raining – no one wants soggy sequins- the blue shoes are on! Even when I was squashed with others in the tiny Post Office Collection depot the other day, a very nice man commented, “Hey great shoes!”, I simply said they make an old woman very happy, which indeed they do. Mind you it could be worse, I could opt for killer heels but sadly that’s not to be. I’ve got this knee you see, well in fact although it pains me (literally) to say it, the bones and joints are not what they were. 24 sparkly shoes is good for the soul but not for the pain. So having researched foods and supplements that would have the restorative effect, a large lorry arrived delivering all my dietary needs excellent. Then one day, while peeling spuds I remembered an octogenarian (“My dear, I didn’t stop climbing ladders until I was 84!”) friend extolling the virtues of the humble potato and the amazing curative affect it had on her arthritis. She had produced a potato from her pocket, which I took to be a fossil; she explained that she had carried that humble spud in her pocket for over two months. Far from going rotten or sprouting the potato had gone rock hard and, she claimed, had rendered her completely pain free much to the amazement of her consultant. I examined the last tiny spud in the bag, it’s not like anyone would miss it, so I slipped it into my pocket and there it stayed for a week or more. ‘Spud’ my new BF came with me everywhere, we got along just fine, no rotting or sprouting in fact quite the reverse he was going wrinkled and hard. Then I noticed, no pain. I was pain free! How could that be? Wasn’t placebo because quite frankly it can’t work can it- the humble spud, the cure-all for joint pain? But in my case, and that of my friend, it would appear so. People noticed the strange lump in my back pocket and although they don’t believe it either, many have taken to carrying a potato around and most have found relief from their aches and pains. It’s like a private club, furtive looks left and right when we meet then, “Have you still got your spud?” The Husband has given up, “ You’re not still carrying that rotting spud around are you?” Stars I and II stare down at my shoes and simply shake their heads, “You’re nuts Mum’. It’s pathetic-everything hurts, whether walking, after driving, getting up even lying flat at night. ‘Wear and tear’ the GP said, Blimey, I’m only 53! Perhaps they are right. When you’re old you are meant to wear purple so they say. I much prefer to carry a potato and wear very sparkly shoes, so there you go! ‘Heal thy self ’ was the order of the day, tripping around in Sandra Pagan 25 FO R U M | HEALTH & BEAUTY HEALTH & BEAUTY BLUEBIRD CARE IS ‘GETTING LOUD ABOUT MS.’ ad8thpOHP nov10 18/11/2010 23:11 Page 1 osteopathy & craniosacral therapy alresford osteopath a gentle approach for the whole family newborns, toddlers to teenagers, adults of all ages, pre & postnatal care complimentary session for newborns and infants 07870 23 8899 bronwyn jones bsc (hons) ost med.nd alresford-osteopath.co.uk registered with the general osteopathic council osteopathy is covered by most health insurance stockists of: Bluebird Care host specialist MS event in support of National Multiple Sclerosis week Over 100,000 people in the UK have MS. Bluebird Care - Alton & Alresford’s high quality home care provider hosted a special ‘Getting Loud About MS’ this week to mark National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Week at their office on Cross & Pillory Lane in Alton on Thursday 2nd April 2015. The specialist event was attended by over thirty care professionals, several local residents, representatives from the MS Society as well as staff and customers of Bluebird Care. The morning began with an MS information session delivered by Rebecca Connolly and Rosie Jackson from Bluebird Care. Allison Flesher, one of the Care Assistants at Bluebird Care then spoke about MS from a Care Assistant’s perspective, including how she has built up relationships with the customers and even a method of communication through blinking. Bluebird Care customers, Mr & Mrs Carpenter from Alresford who both have MS themselves, then spoke bravely and honestly about what it is like to live with the condition. It is very rare to have a couple both be diagnosed with MS, especially only a few short years after they married. Listening to Christiana and Paul’s emotional story was incredibly moving and insightful. In particular hearing first-hand about how MS has affected not only them individually, but also learning how their relationship has had to evolve in order to deal with daily life. Christiana and Paul are very close and it was at first very daunting to admit that they needed help to care for Paul at home, but they have been delighted with the service from Bluebird Care and are now very familiar with their regular Carers whom they trust. Christiana Carpenter, who spoke at the event said: “We are so grateful to Bluebird Care for supporting our family. Both my husband Paul and I were diagnosed with MS in 1991 and 1993 respectively. Thankfully mine is currently benign, however Paul no longer has any mobility and relies upon his Bluebird Care Assistants to help him with his daily needs. MS has completely changed our family’s lives for good, but with the support we receive from Bluebird Care I am able to keep working and I still have some much needed ‘me’ time. I simply can’t explain how reassuring it is to know that Paul is safe at home, being cared for by such a lovely team of local care professionals.” MS Society Vice Chair, Phillip Edwards attended the event, representing the local Alton & Petersfield District MS Society.The MS Society works to help people with MS take control of their lives and provide support to them & their families, alongside funding research into helping beat MS for good. Phillip Edwards, MS Society Vice Chair, for the Alton & Petersfield District said:“We are very happy to support Bluebird Care with their ‘Getting Loud about M.S.’ event and we would like to thank them for helping to raise awareness about this widespread condition. One of our goals here at the M.S. Society is to help people with M.S to continue living happy and 26 26 The Dean Alresford Hampshire S024 9AZ Tel: 01962 738683 www.studio49alresford.com Felicity Dwyer Career Coach ‘Helping you find work you love!’ For a free consultation, call me on: 01962 736 019 or email: felicity@heartofwork.co.uk www.heartofwork.co.uk independent lives and Bluebird Care’s services help make this possible which is so important within our local community” Most people are diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis between the ages of 2040, but it can affect younger and older people too. Roughly three times as many women are affected than men. Bluebird Care provides high quality home care and companionship services to customers from as young as 13 and currently their most senior customer is an impressive 103 years. Bluebird Care enables people in our local community to remain living independently and happily in their own homes surrounded by their family, friends and possessions. For further information on what services Bluebird Care can provide please call (01420) 550 777. If you or someone you know has suffered from MS and would like to contact our local MS Society then please visit www.altonpetersfieldmssociety.org.uk for more information. FO R U M | HEALTH & BEAUTY Traditional Chinese Medicine· Cosmetic Acupuncture Alresford· Southampton • Free consultation • Pay for 8 treatments and receive the 9th free • Pay for a course of 8 cosmetic acupuncture treatments to receive 10% discount See website for further details Sally Hogg Pilates @ MBCPA Body Control Pilates® Teacher Variety of term time matwork classes with small numbers (max 8) allowing close supervision and individual support. Private Sessions: One to one or small personal group pilates 'individually tailored' also available Call/Text: 07771 522665 email: sallyhogg@btinternet.com The Studio: 26A The Dean, Alresford, SO24 9AZ Better Better Health Health -- Naturally Naturally Practical Wing Chun Kung Fu Mary Mary Walden Walden Chiropody & Podiatry Chiropody Chiropody& & Podiatry Podiatry For comfortable, healthy New - Laser foot scanning forfeet orthotics Classes running now in Winchester MCPH FSSCh DipPodMed MBCha IFA MCPH FSSCh DipPodMed MBCha IFA New - Laser foot scanning for orthotics Sport injury Massage Toenail correction and reconstruction Sport injurytreatments, treatments, Massage Dermalogica Nutritional Therapy Skin with Kinesiology Dermalogica Skincare care Help restore health naturally Dip ION ProActive-K Cert mBANT Tim Dip ION ProActive-K Cert mBANT Tim Walden Walden Allergy Testing Nutritional NutritionalTherapy Therapy Kinesiology ++Energetic BioMarkers Sports TherapyActive Massage Kinesiology Energetic Active BioMarkers -a unique way of assessing the body For all of those aches and pains -a unique way of assessing the body Skin Care Kate Bsc MNIMH Kate Parker Parker Bsc MNIMH Dermalogica Facials & product Start training Practical Wing Chun Kung Fu free today and learn to defend yourself effectively on the street. Your first class is FREE with no obligation to continue training. Drop in this week to try out Practical Wing Chun Kung Fu. Popularised by famous practitioners, such as Bruce Lee and Ip Man, Wing Chun aims to enable a practitioner to defeat an agressor by utilising their own power against them. - Self-defence suitable for everyone. - Improve balance & co-ordination. - Gain strength with correct biomechanics. - Contract free monthly training plans. Start training free at uctuk.co.uk, email hello@uctuk.co.uk or call Gary on 07986 298283 for further information Western WesternHerbal HerbalMedicine Medicine Electrolysis Dr Kathryn Fielden BSc(Hons) MSc PhD Dr Kathryn Fielden BSc(Hons) MSc PhD Manicures & Pedicures Counselling ++ many other therapies Counselling www.healthwaycentre.co.uk www.healthwaycentre.co.uk 24 The Dean Alresford 24 The Dean Alresford Telephone 01962 736336 Telephone 01962 736336 1 1 Practical Wing Chun Kung Fu | Self-defence | Private tuition | Jing Wu Kids www.uctuk.co.uk hello@uctuk.co.uk 27 FO R U M | HEALTH & BEAUTY HEALTH & BEAUTY ALRESFORD SURGERY NEWS YOGA A weekly class every Friday: 09.30 - 10.30 at The Studio, 26a The Dean, Alresford, SO24 9AZ (behind Studio 49) W e have a number of Bank Holiday closures in May. We will be closed on Monday 4th May & Monday 25th May. Outside surgery hours urgent medical care is provided by Care UK.The service is available by telephoning 111 or 01962 718697 if 111 is not available from where you are calling. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It can provide medical advice and details of the best local service that can provide care. A team of fully trained call advisers, supported by nurses, assess patients’ symptoms and put them directly in touch with the people who can help; for example, an out of hours doctor, a district nurse or an emergency dentist — or it may be something as simple as a 24 hour chemist. NHS 111 can also send an ambulance, without delay, if required. The Southampton, Hampshire and Portsmouth NHS 111 service is provided by the South Central Ambulance Service, with a call handling centre based in Hampshire. When should you use it? You should use the NHS 111 service if you urgently need medical help or advice but it's not a life-threatening situation. Call 111 if: • You need medical help fast but it's not a 999 emergency •You think you need to go to A&E or need another NHS urgent care service • You don't know who to call or you don't have a GP to call • You need health information or reassurance about what to do next Urgent GP Appointments If you are feeling very unwell and feel you need to see a doctor on the same day then we operate a duty doctor system. Each morning and afternoon one of our doctor’s acts as Duty Doctor who deals with emergencies and has appointments set aside to see patients who are acutely unwell. However, our receptionists do not have access to these appointment slots; instead they will book you a telephone appointment with either the triage nurse or the duty doctor who will call you back to discuss your symptoms. In some cases they may be able to deal with your problem over the telephone or they will book you an appointment which is appropriate for your condition. Please do not arrive at the surgery asking for an urgent appointment as the receptionist will have to send you home to receive a phone call first. This telephone triage system is working very well and means that we are able to see patients quickly when they are most in need of medical attention. 28 This alignment based Yoga flow will improve all over body strength, flexibility, co-ordination, balance and calmness of mind. The class will be suitable for people new to yoga and for those with experience. Adapted postures will be offered to cater for all fitness levels. Cost: £60 per six class pass Private lessons also available Further information or to reserve your place (limited to 10) please contact Sarah Munro on: Tel: 07747 861113 sarah@whitemountainyoga.co.uk www.whitemountainyoga.co.uk Patient Access Queries If you are having any problems with registering with Patient Access for online appointment booking & repeat prescription ordering then please take a look at the Frequently asked questions on the Patient Access website; https://patient.emisaccess.co.uk/Content/Static/ HelpCombined.htm if you cannot find the answer to your questions here, please contact the Surgery who will endeavor to help you, but they may not be able to help you on the same day. Tuesday 19th May The Doctors will be on a training day on this day, so a reduced service will be operating. Website Don’t forget to check our website from time to time. It is updated regularly with news from the surgery, opening hours, doctor’s surgery hours as well as lots of information about minor and long term health conditions. You can also like our Facebook page or Follow us on Twitter to keep up to date with what’s going on at the Surgery. Twitter: @AlresfordSurg Facebook: facebook.com/AlresfordSurg Travel abroad If you are travelling abroad and think you may need advice and vaccinations from us you must complete a questionnaire (available from reception or from our website) and make an appointment with a nurse. We have become aware that patients are often leaving it too late to seek this help, some vaccinations need a course spread over a few weeks so please make apply in good time – up to 2 months before departure. You can find more information on; http://www.alresfordsurgery.co.uk/ clinics-and-services.aspx?t=4 B luebird Care have been taking care of the people of Alresford and all its surrounding villages for the last three years now and have been regular attendees at Alresford's annual Watercress Festival. Our premier home care services have been recognised as being the best at both regional and national levels, winning ‘Small Business of theYear’ at the 2013 Winchester Business Excellence Awards, and 'Best Care Employer' and 'Care Coordinator of the Year’ at the 2014 Great British Care Awards for the fantastic continuity of care we provide to our customers. We have also had formal praise from the national Bluebird Care network where we have been fortunate to win four national awards including 'Best Newcomer' and 'Business of the Year' out of the 200 Bluebird Care offices across the UK and Ireland. FO R U M | HEALTH & BEAUTY BLUEBIRD CARE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AT THE 2015 ALRESFORD WATERCRESS FESTIVAL LOCAL CARERS CARING FOR LOCAL PEOPLE We have a fantastic team of local Alresford Care Assistants as well as a very professional team managing all operations in the office. We can in most cases start a care package within a 24hr period to enable your loved one or friend to perhaps come out of hospital or a care home and be in the home they love surrounded by their family, friends and possessions. We care for people of all ages with varying abilities and disabilities. Our youngest customer is 13 and our oldest customer who was featured in last month’s Alresford & ItchenValley Forum is an impressive 103! We are very passionate about enabling people to remain living independently in their own homes and whilst elderly care is a major part of what we do here at Bluebird Care, many people do not realise that we also provide home care to lots of younger customers too. We care for people with life limiting illnesses such as MS, Motor Neurone Disease, Cancer patients and short term care following an operation or accident. To us, our mission is clear and will always be – to take care of the local people of Alresford, Alton, Winchester, Andover and all surrounding villages the way we would care for our own family or friends. We offer care visits from 30 minutes, right up to 24hr livein care support.Your care package is completely tailored to your individual needs and can change as and when your care needs change with perhaps needing additional help, domestic services or companionship or can be reduced as and when you are getting better. We look forward to seeing you all again at this year’s Alresford Watercress Festival where we will be delighted to have a chat about any care needs that you, your family, friends or neighbours might have. For further information please contact Natasha Early at Bluebird Care Alton & Alresford: T: 01962 856 900 E: alresford@bluebirdcare.co.uk www.bluebirdcare.co.uk Bluebird Care (Alton & Alresford), 3 Cross & Pillory House, Alton, Hampshire, GU34 1HD 29 FO R U M | NEWS & VIEWS NEWS & VIEWS NEW FOREST SPRING FAIR 2015 BIG SLEEP OUT, WINCHESTER T he spring Fair will be taking place on Sunday 3rd May and Monday 4th May 2015, at New Park, Brockenhurst, SO42 7QH. There will be a full programme of events taking place on both days to include Heavy Horses, Ferret Racing, Dog Displays…….and lots more! Browse the stalls, savour the tasty treats, enter our Home Crafts Competitions and enjoy the entertainment on offer. It truly will be a fun-filled day out to suit all ages. A sponsored sleep out in the grounds of Winchester Cathedral in aid of homelessness charities. Join up to 500 people sleeping under the stars at Winchester Cathedral and raise money for two of Winchester's homelessness charities at the same time. Find out more about Trinity Winchester and Winchester Churches Nightshelter on their respective websites. It will be a night like no other with live music, games and competitions all based in this iconic setting. Everyone can come along and enjoy the evening’s entertainment and then it will be 'Sleepers' only from 10pm bedding down in the grounds of the magnificent building. Ticket Information: Tickets can only be purchased on the gate and must be with cash. The cost of entry is £5.00 per adult, children are FREE and parking is FREE too. Why not purchase a programme listing the attractions, events, trade stands and displays and are taking place for 0.50p. Opening Times 9.00am - 5.30pm The Showground, New Park, Brockenhurst, Hampshire SO42 7QH ALTON WALKING FESTIVAL 2015 T The Big Sleep Out is open for people who are over 11 years of age on 8 May 2015 and any participant under 18 years of age requires adult supervision. he town of Alton welcomes you to a weekend of guided walks that will give you the chance to explore the town and the beautiful surrounding countryside. Whether you are looking to delve into the town's history, enjoy the local shops or are a keen walker looking to enjoy a day out in the East Hampshire Countryside, our programme will offer something for all ages and taste. This year's festival will feature an English Civil War Walk visiting St Lawrence Church where the battle of Alton took place in 1643. There will also be a new tree walk led in the north of the town along with two brand new ghost walks from Dark Encounters. The full programme of walks is now available to view and sign up to online at www.alton.gov.uk The Big Sleep Out is also a strictly no-alcohol event. Contact: sleepout@trinitywinchester.org.uk Phone Enquiries: 01962 842 827 Registration is £10 per person or groups of 4 can submit a team entry for £30. A minimum of £100 sponsorship is requested. Winchester Cathedral, The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS All events are free.Times vary. Please see web site for full programme and booking form: www.alton.gov.uk/AltonTownCouncil/alton_ walking_festival-4531.aspx Various locations in Alton Hampshire GU34 1HD Saturday 16 May 2015 and Sunday 17 May 2015 Contact telephone: 01420 83986 The cardboard to sleep on will be provided; you bring the spirit and warmth to get you through the night. Whether this is your own personal challenge or you are coming with a team of people, this is an experience for everyone! If you're extremely competitive, why not bring your own cardboard and decorations and take part in the Cardboard Shelter competition? If sleeping outside is not your cup of tea, get involved with the fun by creating your own Big Sleep In within the comfort of your own home with friends and family, make dens and have a sleepover. Alternatively if you're wanting a little bit more luxury, speak to the event partners, Hotel du Vin Winchester, who have a special Big Sleep In rate that you can take advantage of. 30 This year’s chosen charity is the ‘Rose Road Association’ which provides a range of high quality services for children and young people from 0 – 25 years old with profound and multiple disabilities from across Hampshire. For more information, please click on the following link charity of the year. A beautiful Bed & breakfast on the river Charente, in the village of Bourg-Charente, France FO R U M | PROPERTY MANAGEMENT / ESTATE AGENTS Lavandes Deux Lavandes Deux has one large luxurious suite with stunning views over the river and village square and one double room. Both rooms have an en-suite bathroom. Special rates are available for the booking of both rooms. Opposite the house, on the other side of the river is the beautiful Chateau de Bourg-Charente, where they produce Grand Marnier. Within the village square, there is La Ribaudiere, one of the very few Michelin star restaurants in the area, with it's garden reaching down to the river and the local cafe/restaurant with a fabulous 4 course meal with wine, a different experience, but equally as nourishing! $ For more information on the Lavandes Deux visit: www.lavenders-alresford.com/lavande-deux or alternatively contact Linda Smith on: 01962 733894 or 01962 735877 Email: lindasmithlavender@hotmail.co.uk www.facebook.com/pages/Lavandes-Deux/403519239821844 31 FO R U M | NEWS & VIEWS NEWS & VIEWS ROTARY INTERNATIONAL OF BRITAIN AND IRELAND YOUTH SPEAKS COMPETITION 2015 A lresford Rotary club began to assess the Public Speaking qualities of our local youths when it began the first local round of this annual competition at Perin’s Community School on Tuesday 24th February The competitors from years 8, 9 and 10 were allowed to choose their own topic on which to speak in the allotted time of 10 minutes in teams of three, timings being 2 minutes for the chairperson, 6 for the main speaker and 2 for the proposer of thanks.The topics chosen were Is the USA a World Leader?, How Much Longer Should We Stand For Inequality? and How Does The Media Influence Us? with the topics of Why Women Should Have the Choice and University: is it Feasible? being the most successfully debated in the end. TESCO EXPRESS CHARITY STALL N ew Alresford Town Trust are pleased to announce that Tesco Express in Alresford has once again agreed to sponsor a Charity Stall at The Town Trust Thursday Market in Broad Street. If you are a Charity/Group/Playgroup or any other organisation wishing to raise funds please contact Pam Stevens on (01962) 734861 or E.mail heatherhollow@btinternet.com for further information or to book a space. The Tesco Charity Stall should be up and running by the middle of May and will continue for a few months dependent on interest. Give Pam a call to book a date. The Thursday Market in Alresford still has a few spaces to sell your goods, so if you are interested please call Pam to either book a space or go on the waiting list. We do not duplicate our stalls so if you are selling a product, and we already have someone selling your product, we can put you on the waiting list. A L R E S FO R D R OTA RY 1 0 K The winning Intermediate team of Angelika Kuzminska, Mojo Akinyemi and Jess Blake from Year 9 and the Senior team of Rachel Wood, Ella Vincent and Corinna Cazalet were each selected to compete with teams from Henry Beaufort and King’s Schools for a place in the Rotary Wessex finals in Andover. A special mention as Chairperson goes to Katie Willis of Year 8 for the support she gave her team members. In the subsequent round, held in The Hub at Perins on March 3rd., the Intermediate ‘home team’ was selected to represent the Winchester District in the regional round whilst the Senior team from King’s School was selected to go forward, their chosen topic being Pushy Parenting, a subject which, combined with their witty delivery, caused some amusement amongst the audience. At the District finals held at John Hanson School, Andover the teams selected for the Regional competition were Rookwood School and Guernsey Grammar who will compete in Shaftesbury in two week’s time for a place in the national finals in April . The Rotary Clubs of Alresford and Winchester would like to congratulate all of the contestants on the quality of their background research and their contributions to debate, the teachers of all three schools who supported the competition and the impartial judges Catherine Sousa of Sousa Richards partnership in Alresford and Brian Rothwell of the Alresford Historical and Literature Society who have given of their time and expertise so generously in judging the contestants skills in all three rounds of the competition. 32 S unday 21st June at Arlebury Park. Registration opens at 8.30am. Children's races organised by Sun Hill Junior School from 9.30am. 10k Road Race at 10.00am. Run through the town and into the fabulous Alresford countryside.This is the 8th running of this popular summer event. Last year over 300 runners took part. There will be T-shirts and medals sponsored by the Alresford Salads and the Watercress Company and watercress for all the runners. Cash prizes for the male and female winners plus prizes donated by local businesses for age category winners. Enter online at: http:// alresford10k.co.uk/entry/ and save £2 on the on the day entry price. Make it a family day out; run in the morning, visit the Broad Street gardens and have lunch in town before heading down to Wier House for the Alresford Pigs Duck Race. Are ewe looking to move this spring? Call us now for a free market appraisal of your home Winchester office t 01962 857427 e winchester.sales@smithsgore.co.uk One of the oldest properties in the town, located at the bottom of Broad Street Guide Price: £895,000 Guide Price: £795,000 S FO A R LE A beautiful thatched cottage with much character and stunning countryside views S FO A R LE ALRESFORD ALRESFORD Spacious bungalow at the head of the close with secluded garden and views over fields Stunning contemporary refurbishment of a town centre property with excellent garaging Guide Price: £450,000 Guide Price: £595,000 S FO A R LE CHERITON S FO A R LE 34 S FO A R LE S FO A R LE FO R U M | ESTATE AGENTS ITCHEN STOKE ALRESFORD ALRESFORD Mews house in an exclusive development within walking distance of the town centre A modern family house with a larger than average ground floor accommodation Guide Price: £450,000 Guide Price: £325,000 LE T TO FO R U M | ESTATE AGENTS A LRE SF ORD & SURROUNDING VILLAGE S “A first class team with excellent ITCHEN ABBAS A wonderful character property enjoying spectacular views over the River Itchen TO LET: £3,250 pcm knowledge and a reliable, professional yet friendly approach was invaluable in the sale of our property. Hellards has to be TO LE T highly recommended.” Hellards has been selling and letting residential property in the Alresford area since 1988. Now with new direction and impetus, we aim to become the agent of choice for property owners who are looking for the highest standards of service ALRESFORD A spacious bungalow with a secluded garden within walking distance of the town centre TO LET: £1,400 pcm and integrity. Whether you are looking to sell or let your property, or just want some honest advice, call us or pop into our TO LE T Broad Street office to find out why Hellards is the estate agent everyone is talking about. S A L E S • L E T T I N G S • P R O P ER T Y M A N AG EM E NT ALRESFORD A modern four bedroom town house in Broad Street with a garage and a pretty garden Guide Price: £1,850 pcm TE L : 01 9 62 736333 W W W .HE L L A R DS.C O.UK 11 B R OA D STR E E T A L R E SF OR D SO24 9 A R 35 ‘A family company built on a solid foundation’ FO R U M | NEWS & VIEWS / BUILDING SERVICES BUILDING SUPPLIES & SERVICES ties, Classifieds BUILDING SUPPLIES & SERVICES MELODY MELODY NEWS & ART ART VIEWS COLLABORATE HOMES LAUNCH NEW GROUP SELF-BUILD INITIATIVE MELODY ART MELODY W orking with a group to create your own home can have many advantages’ writes Paul Jenkins, the principle architect at place and director of Collaborative Homes, the newly formed Winchester based company. ART Collaborative Homes have launched a new initiative that facilitates the formation of well informed and motivated groups to develop their own new homes and provides professional services to help project manage and design the project where required. In 2013, 1 in 8 of the population, that’s 6 million people, expected to actively research the possibility of building their own home within the coming year 1. 2%, over 1 million, expected to start the process during the coming year, but in reality only about 10,000, a tiny 0.02% achieved this ambition. More surprisingly a YouGov survey commissioned by the Building Societies Association (BSA), published in October 2011, suggested that 53% of people in the UK would consider building their own home given the opportunity. Although the poll showed interest across wide income, age, educational and socioeconomic bands, the achievers were biased towards those with incomes over £60,000, over 45, with a knowledge of the process, who had time and craft skills to invest some ‘sweat equity’ in their project.2 Overall this represents only 7-10% of all homes built that year, but not surprisingly given the profile of the achievers, 28% of detached new homes. In France the percentage is closer to 60% and in Austria a staggering 80% of all new homes are ‘self-build’. I should stress that in this context self-build doesn’t have to involve laying bricks or digging drains; investing ‘sweat equity’ to use the jargon. It means being the developer, buying the land, commissioning the design, employing the builders and taking the risks and, most importantly, the rewards. So why such a disparity between ambition and fulfilment? The York survey identified a number of key issues preventing people getting started. Knowledge Despite the popularity of Grand Designs and other self-build programmes, only a very few people really understand how to go about what is a very complicated process. There are many sources of information, some well-founded and some just plain wrong. However it is challenging for an individual to acquire enough knowledge through the media and especially to know whose opinion to trust. Collaborative Homes has planned a programme of seminars and lectures by leading local professionals on the legal, financial, planning, design and procurement issues surrounding both individual and group self-build projects. Land ‘As rare as hen’s teeth’ is how most agents will describe self-build plots if you enquire at their offices. The reasons why are diverse and tied up with the structure of the house building and selling industries and the planning system. However local authorities now have an obligation to help identify potential self-builders and allow for them in their plan preparation. Existing land owners and developers can fulfil some of their obligations by partnering with self-build groups and in rural areas groups of local people can apply for rural exemption permission to develop land otherwise classified as countryside. Collaborative Homes is working with a range of agencies and land owners to identify potential sites for group self-build development, assess development options and seek preapplication advice. These projects will be available to newly formed groups. Planning The identification of housing need and the type required, as well as the allocation of land for housing, is a central obligation of local planning authorities. Under 29 Michael Hoggard Ltd Michael Hoggard Ltd Quality Building Contractors Quality Building ‘A family company built on aContractors solid foundation’ ‘A family company built on acompany solid foundation’ Michael Limited isisaafamily built MichaelHoggard Hoggard Limited family company builton onaa Michael Hoggard Limited is a family company built on a solid foundation. one the longest trading building solidfoundation. foundation.ItItItisisisone one of the longest trading building solid ofof the longest trading building firms locally, having been established inin1967. firmslocally, locally,having having been established 1967. firms been established in 1967. “We deal with every aspect building construction” “Wedeal dealwith withevery everyaspect aspect of building and construction” ofof building andand construction” mhoggardltd@btconnect.com Office phone/fax: 01962 732985 mhoggardltd@aol.com Phone/Fax: 01962 732985 mhoggardltd@aol.com Office Phone/Fax: 01962 732985 mhoggardltd@aol.comOffice Office Phone/Fax: 01962 732985 Michael Hoggard: (Home) 01962 732494 (Direct) 07802 418079 Michael Hoggard: (Home) 01962 732494 (Direct) 07802 418079 Michael MichaelHoggard: Hoggard:(Home) (Home)01962 01962732494 732494 (Direct) (Direct)07802 07802418079 418079 Michael Hoggard Limited is a family company built on a solid foundation. It is one of the longest trading building firms locally, been established 1967. recent legislation town and having parish councils can developinlocal plans which can include “We for local housing assessment and location and identification. This process deal with every aspectis of building construction” Michael Hoggard Limited familyincompany a is well underway in Winchester and hasa started Test Valley. built Other on district solid foundation. It is one of the longest trading building councils will be encouraging and supporting the development of local plans in the coming years.locally, Collaborative Homes is actively lobbying in these organisations firms having been established 1967. to ensure that a proportion of these sites are allocated to self-build projects, both individually andwith for groups, to helpof thebuilding authoritiesand identify suitable groups “We deal everyand aspect construction” mhoggardltd@aol.com Office Phone/Fax: 01962 732985 to take these project forward. Michael Hoggard: (Home) 01962 732494 (Direct) 07802 418079 Finance A number of initiatives have been launched by the current government, with the general support of all parties, to encourage self -build projects. These can reduce the cost of a new home by up to 15%. Add to this the benefits of cutting out the developers profit, the stamp duty on Office a new Phone/Fax: home and the benefits of sharing the mhoggardltd@aol.com 01962 732985 professional andHoggard: construction management cost, (Direct) then a group Michael (Home) 01962 732494 07802self-built 418079 home can be up to 35% cheaper than a new home brought from a developer. Even though obtaining borrowing to finance individual self-build has become easier, group-self builders need access to specialist lenders and cash flow support to be able to benefit from the full savings. Collaborative Homes and its professional advisors have identified potential sources for such funding and can help arrange finances, manage budgets and do the book keeping as well as advising on the optimising of VAT and other tax obligations. Group dynamics Having completed two major renovations and one new build house in the past twenty years I can confirm that going it alone can test the commitment of even the most informed and experienced self-builder. Sharing the development is not only a way to share cost but also to share the stresses and strains that are Issue 24 November 2008 connected to all new build projects. When people enter with the right expectations the group development Issue 2008 Issue24 24 November November 2008 experience can create a neighbourhood community that supports the members long after the build is finished. Self-builders stay in their home 3 times longer on average than the normal owner occupier. Shared facilities such as district heating, common land and allotments, car-sharing and privately managed access can create far more sustainable developments than the average developer led project and create a better and more economical local environment. Obviously getting the right group together is essential for this. Collaborative Homes is offering a ‘marriage broking’ service to help like-minded people connect and support the creation of suitable legal structures that suit the group and the form of development. The structure for a group of three wishing to build detached dream homes will be very different to twelve first time buyers wishing to be part Issue 24 November 2008 of a controlled cost housing development To find out more about the initiative visit: www.collaborativeHomes.org or call Paul Jenkins or Marion Mason at place on 01962 841 411 1. Mori poll for NaCSBA 2013 2. University of York survey 2013 sponsored by Lloyds Bank 3. Self-build and custom build housing sector; Parliamentary Note: SN06784 Dec 2014 Standard 36 Issue 24 November 2008 29 NEW HOMES EXTENSIONS LOFT CONVERSIONS REFURBISHMENTS •DESIGN •INTERIORRECONSTRUCTION ANDREFURBISHMENT •BATHROOMS •KITCHENS •EXTENSIONAND CONVERSIONS •GENERALBUILDINGWORKS With over 30 years experience, fully qualified and insured, I am happy to talk through what you need to help create your design and give a FREE no obligation estimate. Contact me now, I’m here to help. ANDY CLIFF TEL: 01962 738883 V V CONSTRUCTION FO R U M | BUILDING SERVICES CPFM EXPERIENCED LOCAL BUILDER & PEACE OF MIND Email: cliffbuilding@googlemail.com VOLLER ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AND ASSOCIATED WORKS V V ALL WORKS GUARANTEED VOLLER ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN • V V info@cpfm.co.uk www.cpfm.co.uk Tel: 01962 732 970 Mob: 07947 812 412 Extensions and Conversions • Alterations • New Build Refurbishments • Loft Conversions • Listed Buildings • Planning Applications • Planning Appeals • Building Regulations Applications VOLLER ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN • Projects modelled in 3D CAD for clear visualisation • Residential Development and Masterplanning • For a free initial consultation call James Voller 07962 055862 or email jamesv@vollerarchitectural.com New builds Conservation work Painting & decorating Extensions & alterations Conservatories Roofing Brick & flint specialist Groundworks Structural works (steel) Office: 01962 734978 (9am-5pm) Mobile: 07979 506416 email: enquiries@grantandwimbleton.co.uk 18 NEW FARM ROAD, ALRESFORD, HAMPSHIRE, SO24 9QP 37 FO R U M | NEWS & VIEWS / PROFESSIONAL SERVICES NEWS & VIEWS SERV WESSEX P eople will have seen the National Blood Service vans driving around, but how many people realise that they do not deliver to the hospitals during the night, weekend or bank holidays? During these hours, hospitals usually end up paying for a courier. This costs the NHS thousands of pounds each year. This is where SERV comes in. SERV stands for Service by Emergency Rider Volunteers and is often referred to as the Bloodrunners. The SERV Hampshire branch has grown in the number and region of hospitals supported to cover as far west as Poole and Dorchester, north to Swindon, and East to Guildford. We are now known as SERV Wessex to better reflect the regions we cover. Riders give up their time to deliver blood, platelets, plasma, and samples during these out of hour’s periods. The volunteers don’t get paid for their time or for the petrol used when they use their own bike. We have a couple of marked up bikes, but most volunteers use their own transport. In 2014, we delivered 1,362 boxes, and covered 90,854 miles! As well as providing urgent blood to the hospitals we also supply fresh blood every 48 hours to the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance based in Thruxton. They have recently been given permission to carry blood and use a specially designed box developed for use by the military. SERV Wessex is run entirely on donations; we don’t receive any funding apart from charitable donations. For more information about our charity please visit: http://servwessex.org.uk/. Donations also welcome via: https://mydonate.bt.com/charities/servwessex ALRESFORD EEL HOUSE DEVELOP MENTS O ver the winter progress has been made towards our long-term goal of restoring the Eel House to its functioning purpose - further boxes have been ticked with the Environment Agency regarding the installation of sluices, which we hope may be completed this autumn. The old chipboard floor has been removed and a steel grill flooring is being prepared for installation shortly which will enable visitors to see the charming arched conduits below (as well as the raging river!). Sadly this work is not quite complete and will not be finished until after Easter, which means that our scheduled opening on 5th and 6th of April will not be possible. Our first Open Day will therefore be on 17th May for the Watercress Festival. 38 Banners Flags Branded Clothing - Embroidery & Print Vehicle Graphics Signs lse e t wha Print See e do at w Displays Stage Sets & Backdrops T: 01962 734477 www.setimage.co.uk hello@setimage.co.uk Unit 1 Prospect Business Centre, Prospect Rd, Alresford, Hants SO24 9UH Computer Repairs • For all computer, laptop and tablet needs • Broken screens replaced from £80 (fitted) • We fix wireless ‘dead spots’ in 30 minutes • Business and private customers welcome Contact: 01962 734750 or 07808 480344 For more information visit: www.alresfordcomputers.co.uk repairs@alresfordcomputers.co.uk Oakleaf Stationery Ltd OFFICE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES FO R U M | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES / I.T SERVICES / FASHION & RETAIL Computer Problems? OPENING TIMES Mon to Fri - 9am - 5pm Sat - 9.30am - 1pm Why travel all the way to Winchester for office supplies when we have a comprehensive range available on your doorstep A wide range of print cartridges in stock Services available: Photocopying, Laminating, Document Binding, Faxing, Scan to Email, Professional Personalised Printing Agent 56 West Street, Alresford, Hants, SO24 9AU Tel:01962 736116 info@oakleafstationery.co.uk ADVERTISE WITH US! and reach up to 14,900 readers in Alresford and the Itchen Valley Eighth page placements: £43 Quarter page placements: £75 Half page placements: £141 Discounts are available on 3, 6 and 12 month bookings. For more information email: marketing@forumpublications.co.uk 39 FO R U M | FASHION & RETAIL MARKET SQUARE UNIQUE - BESPOKE - ECLECTIC - LOCAL Alresford Beauty Ragamuffin Vivien Sheriff Wave Headpeice - £799 35 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 733277 | www.modarosa.co.uk Vanessa Bee hessian shopping bags with luxury padded handles in a range of designs - £6.99 - £7.99 Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk Frugi organic smocked gypsy dress - £28.00 2 Bakehouse Yard, New Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 734488 | www.ragamuffin-uk.com SQU AR E · MARKE T 40 ET S QUARE ARKET SQ U Luxurious cashmere and fine merino mix v neck jumper in lime green. Also available in soft turquoise - £116 Tel: 01962 733894 | www.lavenders-alresford.com RK ·M Lavenders May brings the Watercress Festival to town, when our streets are filled with visitors, scrumptious food stalls and festivities! Why not celebrate the start of summer by supporting the wide variety of local retailers, eateries and businesses in our beautiful town? ARE · M A Moda Rosa Naked Grape La Cress Watercress Belgian Lager - Exclusive to The Naked Grape - To be launched at the Watercress Festival Tel: 01962 7320O2 | www.thenakedgrape.co.uk Design Realities Alresford Cricketers Long Barn Spoil yourself with a luxurious Dr Vranje home fragrance 250ml Reed diffusers £49.50, Room Spray £27.00 Tel: 01962 732507 | 36 West Street, Alresford Family friendly pub with large car park & play area. Jacklyns Lane, Alresford, SO24 9LW Tel: 01962 732463 | www.alresfordcricketers.co.uk Lavender now in, plus a bumper range of spring and summer plants. Lavender stoechas from - £3.95 Tel: 01962 738684 | www.longbarn.co.uk PROVIDE READERS WITH SEASONALLY EVOCATIVE, RK ET S QUARE ·M SQU ARKET SQ ARE · M A INSPIRATIONAL GIFT AND STYLE IDEAS. FO R U M | FASHION & RETAIL A PLACE FOR LOCAL RETAILERS TO DISPLAY THEIR WARES AND U AR E · MARKE T Delilah Boutique More by Design Interior Style Ilse Jacobsen glitter flip flops - £24 34 West St, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 738470 | Delilah Boutique Alphabet Cushions - 45cm x 45cm £20 each including the pad Tel: 01962 734504 | www.morebydesign.com Hand made dancer Sculpture - £160 29 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 736311 | www.interiorstyle.biz The Wessex Dog Walking Co. Andrew Smith & Son D.Barker & Son Honest and reliable local dog walking and pet-care service Tel: 07450 575284 | wessexdogwalks Monthly Antiques and Interiors Auction 9 May - Fine Art, Antiques, Interiors and Collectables 19 and 20 May Tel: 01962 735988 | www.andrewsmithandson.com Novus Spirit Flask in Pewter with leather sleeve - £70 Tel: 01962 732200 | www.dbarkerandson.co.uk Jasmine China Hire D.Barker & Son The Alresford Gift Shop Planning a party? We offer an extensive range of China, Cutlery, Glassware, Linen & more for all your hire needs Tel: 07836 745603 | www.jasminechinahire.co.uk Trollbead Mythic bracelet special offer: was £80, now £50! Tel: 01962 732200 | www.dbarkerandson.co.uk High gloss melamine coasters & place mats £3 & £8 each. See us at the Watercress Festival and see our NEW Alresford mugs Tel: 01962 732192 | 10 West St, Alresford, SO24 9AT 41 FO R U M | FASHION & RETAIL FASHION & RETAIL carving/working, cabinet making, pottery as well as vintage and antique sellers, some new products such as hampers and log baskets, frames and children's toys and crafts, used and all types of up-cycled products and furniture, animal products and homemade foods. NEW EMPORIUM IN CHRISTCHURCH WITH OVER 80 SMALL BUSINESSES - A SMALL INDOOR SHOPPING VILLAGE “We are hunting out original items from the best creative small businesses in Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire and bringing them together in one place, making it easy for people to browse, shop and buy direct from small business owners” Say’s Lesley-Ann When you speak with Simon and Lesley-Ann, the Directors and founders of Christchurch Emporium, you soon realise just how passionate they are about hand-picking creative small businesses, making it simple for customers to be inspired by the personalised, stylish and unique things that will be on offer. They are not interested in being the same as everyone else and do not wish to become a market or compete with the high street, they describe themselves as a indoor shopping village for small businesses with a difference and are very passionate about supporting British talent and helping to generate more footfall into Christchurch. Customers will be buying directly from the artists, designers and curators who make up the majority of the collection of sellers. By shopping at Christchurch Emporium you will be doing business with diverse, talented independent sellers who care about quality, innovation and style, as well as supporting the future growth of creative talent and small business owners. When you walk into the emporium you will find streets of different types of traders and sellers such as Antiques Walkway, Vintage Road, New Street, Up Cycled Chic, Nearly New Road, Artists Alley and Paws Place. The layout is similar to departmental stores, where similar products and designs are displayed together. In Vintage Road, you will find all things vintage. C hristchurch Emporium are taking on companies like notonthehighstreet.com with the opening of their new “Indoor retail area emporium for small businesses”, located at the old Mostyns Factory in Bridge Street. The idea is that Christchurch Emporium will be the quaint individuality of a village fête with the creative style of a boutique store, selling uniquely crafted items that are different to those sold by big brand chains and shops on the high street. The inspiration behind Christchurch Emporium is based on craft & antique fairs that you find in and around the UK. “Craft and antique fairs have a variety of inspiring and creative exhibitors and are very successful, we’ve gone one stage further, by giving these small businesses the exposure of a regular sales area to help them really expand their sales, freeing up their time, as we do the selling for them,” says Lesley-Ann, director and one of the founders of Christchurch Emporium. Christchurch Emporium currently has over 80 individual small businesses such as artists and crafters of earthenware, glassware, stained glass, quilting, needlework, knitting, wood 42 In New Street, you will find new products such as Holly’s Handbag and everything you need for a Great British cup of tea. In Antique Walkway you will find a whole array of lovely antiques and in Nearly New they will be offering re-cycled products such as pine furniture, baby clothes and prams and Macmillan Caring Locally who are opening their first retail shop. In Artist Alley you will find Lucy Tidbury and Paul Doleman as well as other artists. Paul Doleman is going to be a resident artists, his studio is at Christchurch Emporium and you will be able to see him paint and he will be offering classes for children and adults at the Activity Centre within Christchurch Emporium. Opening Saturday 18th April at 10am to 5pm and then Tuesday to Saturday: 10-5 and Sunday's: 11-4pm. Christchurch Emporium is situated behind the new Churchill Retirement development, The Old Mostyns Factory in Bridge Street, Christchurch. Their Facebook page is: www. facebook.com/christchurchemporium. FO R U M | LEISURE & ENTERTAINMENT LEISURE & ENTERTAINMENT THE OLD ALRESFORD DRAMATIC SOCIETY INVITES YOU TO DI(N)E WITH THEM… SUDDEN DEATH A THEATRE SUPPER & MURDER MYSTERY SPARSHOLT COLLEGE COUNTRYSIDE DAY AT OLD ALRESFORD MANOR by Chris Lewis & Carol Hutton WED 13TH SAT 16TH May 2015 7.00pm - Bar & hall open 7.20pm - Ploughman’s supper 7.30pm - Performance begins C elebrate 100 years of progression through the ages at Sparsholt College. Come and enjoy Countryside Day on Saturday 16th May. A fun day out for the family and much to find out about Sparsholt College. Explore the development from traditional agricultural methods to the high-tech industry we have today. Here is a list of things to see and do: • Tractor rides, circus skills workshops • Loads of live music from across the decades • Craft fair and food hall • Vintage and modern machinery • Re-enactment groups engaging with children of all ages • New climbing wall open • Plant sales TICKETS BUY TICKETS Online www.oa-toads.org.uk Box Office 01962 736257 Email boxoffice@oa-toads.org.uk £12 Ploughman’s supper included Set in the 50’s as a BBC Radio play, you are invited to take a light supper, enjoy drinks throughout the evening and witness some ‘funny goings on’ as the audience seek to uncover the perpetrator of the dastardly deed. Expect jokes, japes and general jollity - but keep your eyes peeled, you may be brought forward for questioning! JOIN US AT THE CHRISTY HALL, OLD ALRESFORD Tickets will be available to purchase online (with a 15% discount on the standard prices). Please check the website for full details: www.sparsholt.ac.uk/events FIND & FOLLOW In partnership with Home of Thomas & FriendsTM toys Westley Lane, Sparsholt, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 2NF Tel: 01962 776441 Adult £10.00 per ticket, Child £8 per ticket Family (2+2) £28.00 per ticket Senior Citizen £9.00 per ticket THE HAMPSHIRE COUNTRY FAIR N etley Marsh (Hampshire) Country Show. It’s our second year in this fantastic venue. We are welcoming back top arena attractions such as our scurry drivers, racing each other or taking on the might of the Izuzu in our Machine v Beast challenge. Then there are the horseboarders – and adrenaline packed set of races, when the competitors basically skateboard behind a galloping horse! Chase the Bunny is back, and there are the usual demonstrations of gun dogs, ferrets and birds of prey, as well as your opportunity to meet and greet the packs of hounds from New Forest Hounds and South Downs Bloodhounds Then there are the hamsters, the horses, the hawks, the hot dogs… Mark Lloyd and his team of chefs demonstrating recipes from the countryside. The will be fair rides for the children and a bar tent for the adults.You can have a go at fishing or ferret racing, painting a pot or paint balling, all in all a great day out. Open 10am - 6pm Daily. Adults £12 Over 65’s £11 Child £4 Netley Marsh Showground, Netley Marsh, Hampshire, Hampshire SO40 7GY Sunday 3 May 2015 and Monday 4 May 2015 www.livingheritagecountryshows.co.uk 44 Join Thomas & FriendsTM at a heritage Railway near you. Experience a ride on a real steam engine and take part in Thomas-themed activities. MID HANTS RAILWAY ‘WATERCRESS LINE’ Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9JG 3 - 12 RD TH 2015 www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk Day Out With ThomasTM Thomas the Tank EngineTM. Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2015 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. © 2015 HIT Entertainment Limited. FEATURI G FOUR STAGES N OF LIVE MUSIC! REE F E H T H C T CA US… B E L T T U SH HESTER NC FROM WI ESFORD TO ALR FAMKIELTY TIC - ONLY OFFER £40 UNDER 9s GET IN FREE! Arlebury Park, The Avenue, Alresford, Nr. Winchester ADVANCE TICKETS FROM £10 - CAMPING £5 RINGWOOD FINE ALE BAR • CIDER & COCKTAIL BARS • ZORBING • CIRCUS ACTS FOOD STALLS • FESTIVAL VILLAGE • AFRICAN DRUMMING • ART SCULPTURES STREET THEATRE • MUSIC & DANCE WORKSHOPS & MUCH MORE… BUY ONLINE & SAVE £5 PER PERSON www.alresfordmusicfestival.com Principal sponsors of the Alresford Music Festival: Photographs kindly supplied by Allan Jones (www.rockstarimages.co.uk) and Richard Turner Photography. FO R U M | NEWS & VIEWS / MOTORS NEWS & VIEWS WATERCRESS LINE WINS GRANT TO RESTORE ITS FLAGSHIP ENGINE AVAILABLE FOR: PRESTIGE CARS OF ALRESFORD TEL: 01962 865602 MOBILE: 07752 570787 OR VISIT PRIVATE HIRE AIRPORT TRANSFERS OTHER JOURNEYS WWW.PRESTIGECARSALRESFORD.CO.UK No r t h Mo to r Company North Motor Company, Holden Farm Cheriton, Alresford, Hants SO24 ONX www.northmotor.co.uk info@northmotor.co.uk Over 30 years experience • Service • Repairs • On site MOTs All makes of car catered for Full Saab, Subaru diagnostics Free collection, delivery and courtesy car (when available) Independent Specialists Fully equipped workshop Telephone Nigel or Gary on Canadian Pacific in full steam on the Watercress Line, © Matt Allen F ollowing its recent high profile cosmetic restoration of the Winston Churchill steam engine for the National Railway Museum, the Mid Hants Railway in Hampshire has been awarded a large Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant to restore its own flagship engine, Canadian Pacific. Celebrating its 150th anniversary this year the Mid Hants Railway, or Watercress Line as it is famously known, is a popular visitor attraction in the south. It bought the Southern Railway Merchant Navy Class No.35005 ‘Canadian Pacific’ locomotive in 2006 and it ran on the railway until 2008 when its statutory overhaul was due. All of these giants of British engineering require an overhaul every 10 years to keep them safely in steam. At 74 years old this 95 ton engine can now be completely stripped down and rebuilt by the railway’s growing team of skilled engineers and apprentices. The three year restoration project has been awarded £895,000 by the Heritage Lottery Fund towards the total cost of £1.5m. The remainder of the project’s costs will be met through fundraising and donations to the Mid Hants Railway Preservation Society, the charity behind the Watercress Line. The project also involves the restoration of two wooden framed coaches designed by the same Southern Railways engineer, Oliver Bulleid. Once restored to their former glory the locomotive and coaches will become the focal point of Watercress Line activities. Managing Director Colin Chambers said: "We are extremely grateful to the Heritage Lottery Fund for supporting this project and the aims of the Mid Hants Railway. We look forward to sharing progress of the restoration process itself and it will be fantastic to have this beautiful southern locomotive back in steam and at the heart of the railway." 46 01962 771331 01962 771881 Stuart McLeod, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund South East, said: “We’re really pleased to be supporting this project that provides an excellent opportunity to secure the long-term future of Hampshire’s railway heritage. The exciting plans to restore the ‘Canadian Pacific’ and Bulleid coaches to their former glory will help conserve this important heritage for generations to come, and through the enhanced visitor experience and extensive volunteering and training opportunities, more people will be able to learn about the social, political and economic significance of our historic railways.” Canadian Pacific was originally built just a few miles away from the Watercress Line in the railway town of Eastleigh in 1941 and, in a neat turn of events, this is where the locomotive’s restoration will begin. Eastleigh Works have kindly rented out part of the building where the 30 Merchant Navy Class engines were originally built so that the project team has space to strip down and rebuild her. Component parts will be brought back to life at the railway's own extensive engineering facilities at its Ropley site, which are on view to visitors. The project has a huge community focus for the railway and the town of Eastleigh as the Watercress Line pulls together the story of the builders, drivers and passengers of the 1940’s and 50’s steam era. Local memories of that time are actively being sought by the railway to bring the story to life. People will be able to closely follow the restoration process through the Watercress Line’s website and social media, with regular blogs and updates as it progresses. MOT TEST CENTRE • • • • • Welding specialists Tyres for cars and motorcycles 4 wheel laser alignment LPG for sale for cars Recovery services • Free collection • Diagnostic testing (including Landrover) • Courtesy cars • Certificated engineers MOT TEST CENTRE FOR: Cars, motorcycles and vans up to 3,000kg. All makes serviced and repaired. Class 4 MOT's Andrews Autosource FO R U M | MOTORS ALRESFORD MOTOR SERVICES LTD Quality Used Cars, Carefully Selected Approved by trading standards CARS LIKE THE ONES WE SELL, CASH PAID THE FOLLOWING CARS HAVE BEEN CAREFULLY SELECTED BECAUSE OF THEIR LOW MILEAGE, EXCELLENT CONDITION AND SERVICE HISTORY. Class 1 & 2 Motorcycles MOT's WHILE YOU WAIT Mon - Fri: 7.30am - 5.00pm 2013 (13) Ford Grand C-Max Titanium X 2.0 TDCi Automatic, only 13,000 miles £14795 2012 (61) Mini Cooper 1.6 1 owner, only 9,000 miles £10795 2011 (61) Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SRi Estate 1 owner, only 9,200 miles £9495 2010 (60) Citroen DS3 Black & White 1.6 HDi Special, 2 owners, only 28,000 miles £8495 2012 (12) Nissan Note N-Tec 1.4 sat nav 1 owner, only 8,500 miles £8495 2009 (09) VW Passat R Line 1.9 TDi Estate 2 owners, only 47,000 miles £8695 2013 (13) Smart Four Two, Pulse Free road tax, only 6,000 miles £6950 2012 (12) Mitsubishi Colt CZ2 Automatic 1 owner, only 8,400 miles £6495 2012 (62) Peugeot 107 Active 5 door, 1 owner, Free road tax, only 14,000 miles £5995 2005 (05) Peugeot 307 S 1.6 Automatic, 1 owner, only 43,000 miles £3295 2006 (06) Daihatsu Sirion 1.0 SE 3 Owners, only 54,000 miles £2895 APPOINTMENTS CAN BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE VIEW OUR CURRENT STOCK AT UNIT 5, SHELF HOUSE, NEW FARM ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9QE Tel: 01962 733888 e:mike1ams1@aol.com ID VALETING BESPOKE SERVICE ALRESFORD PROFESSIONAL VALETING GET THAT NEW CAR FEELING BY BOOKING A FULL VALET FOR THE NEW YEAR OPENING TIMES All weather facility, dry and warm waiting area ID VALETING, UNIT 4, SHELF HOUSE INDUSTRIAL NEW FARM ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9QE TEL: 07967 730584 idt45@btinternet.com www.andrews-autosource.co.uk/vehicle-stock PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL CARS HAVE SERVICE HISTORY TAYLORS GARAGE, HIGH STREET, DROXFORD, SO32 3QL TEL: 01489 878 879 EVENING TEL: 01962 732995 47 FO R U M | CLUBS & SOCIETIES CLUBS & SOCIETIES ARTS, CRAFTS & MUSIC Alresford Area Craft Club Welcomes crafty people through out the area who enjoy being creative. Or if you would like to take up a craft and learn something new. This is the start of a new club which will be held during the morning twice a month. For details of venue and dates, please contact Sandy on 01962 732995 Alresford Art Society Meetings from September to June at The ARC, Alresford, on the last Wednesday of the month. Painting days at venues around Hampshire in the summer. Paintings are hung in the surgery and the ARC. www.artsociety.alresford.org Tel: 01962 736751 artsociety@alresford.org The Alresford Community Choir (Acc) Meet every Monday in St. John’s church at 7.30pm. We hold several concerts a year and sing a variety of music to suit all tastes. This large, friendly and thriving choir welcomes new members and audiences alike. www.alresfordchoir.com Alresford Ukulele Jam We would like to welcome new people to join our Jam whether people would like to sing, play an instrument or do both then we would like to see people at our Jam evenings. We meet up on Tuesday evenings at the Swan Hotel from 7.30pm until 9.30pm. Our contact information alresfordukejam@outlook.com Tel: 01962 710385 http://facebook.com/ AlresfordUkeJam A.C.T.S - Alresford Community Theatre Society New members welcome, to ensure the continued success of our local theatre group. If you are interested in becoming involved, either on stage or behind the scenes. Contact Debbie: 01962 732055 debbie@ holliday34.plus.com Alresford Historical and Literary Society Meetings (generally there is a talk followed by a ‘get together’) are held at the Methodist Hall, Jacklyns Lane, Alresford at 7.30pm on the third Wednesday of most months. For more information please contact Glenn Gilbertson, 26 Grange Road, Alresford, SO24 9HB. Tel: 01962 732726. glenngilbertson@btinternet.com or Bob Fowler: 7 Sun Hill, Crescent, Alresford, SO24 9NJ. Tel: 01962 734125 bob_fowler@tiscali.co.uk 48 Bishops Sutton Handbell Ringing Team We meet every Tuesday 2.30 3.30pm in the village hall and we would welcome new members. It is not essential to be able to read music. Why not come and have a go - it's lots of fun. Contact: 01962 736211 or just turn up. Meetings are held at St Gregory's Church Centre, Grange Road, Alresford on the second Wednesday of the month (no meeting in December) from 7.30pm until 10pm. At least three outings are organised annually and a holiday is arranged visiting gardens. Contact: Clare Read..01962/735172. The Candover Valley Bell Ringers Are you looking for a way to meet new people, support your community or learn a new skill? Why not become a church bell ringer. Join us for learning and fun at our practice night every other Monday at St Peter’s Church in Brown Candover at 7.15 pm, or Contact Carol: 01256 389387 Alresford Flower Club Come and join us at 7.30pm on the last Wednesday of the month at St.Gregory’s Catholic Church, Grange Road Hall, Alresford. Friendly, lively meetings, professional flower arrangers and beautiful flowers. New members and visitors most welcome. Pearl Court: 01962 734441 The Cheriton Players Active local theatre group that puts on two productions a year and welcomes new audiences and members alike. Online ticketing for upcoming events www. ticketsource.co.uk/cheritonplayers. Follow us on Twitter @ CheritonPlayers www.facebook. com/groups/120589672533. David Cradduck 01962 771700 davidncradduck@gmail.com. www. thecheritonplayers.org.uk The Cheriton Singers Active local choir that puts on two concerts a year plus a Carol Concert at Christmas and welcomes new members and audiences alike. For more information call 01962 771796 or visit www.cheritonsingers. hampshire.org.uk. Itchen Reading Group Meets at Alresford Library at 2.00 pm on the first Thursday every month. We read a wide variety of books chosen by members and provided by the Library Service. New members and visitors are very welcome. Contact Jill Clayton on 01962 735482 The Medstead Players Lesley Rae, Fiver, High Street, Medstead. Tel: 01420 56563916 www.medsteadplayers.co.uk Four Marks Folk Band Folk Music Workshop, 1st & 3rd Mondays of each month. 7.30 -10pm at Four Marks Village Hall. Instrumental musicians of all ages & abilities welcomed. The band is available to play for dances etc, for charities. Enquiries: Peter Treacher 01420 562794 OTHER CLUBS / SOCIETIES Alresford & District Horticultural Society The Alresford Ladies Group Meet for fun and friendship on the second Thursday each month in the John Pearson Hall at 7.30pm. We have a varied programme of walks, talks, trips out and social evenings. Please come along and join us Contact Pearl Page: 01962 734665 Alresford Rotary Club Rotary carries out local and international community service projects . With members from Alresford and surrounding villages, and open to men and women. We meet most Monday evenings at the Swan. www.alresfordrotary.co.uk or contact Secretary Jon Pittam: 01962 733903 Alresford Royal Naval Association On the second Tuesday each month, at 7.30pm in the Swan Hotel, Alresford. Membership is open to all members and exmembers of the Naval Service, and also to anyone who supports the Naval Service. Our Mess Nights combine some formal business with time to chat and socialise (with the help of an adjacent bar) and, most months, a guest speaker. Secretary - Lesley Jones: 01962 736573 family@jonesberry.net Alresford Twinning Association Would you like to be involved in developing relationships with our Twin Town in Bricquebec, Normandy, or just join us for a wide range of social activities through the year. Contact Jean: 01962 733131 email: jahalresfordtwinning@yahoo.co.uk Bramdean & Hinton Ampner W.I. We meet on the third Wednesday of every month in Bramdean & Hinton Ampner Village Hall at 7.30pm for an interesting talk, refreshments and a raffle. We organise trips to gardens, pubs and restaurants and craft mornings. Sarah: bramdeancrafts@yahoo.co.uk or Judith: 01962 771655 New Alresford W.I. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month at St.Gregory’s Pastoral Centre, Grange Road at 7.30pm. We have many interesting speakers, trips, craft workshops and much more. New members and guests are welcome. Contact Kate at kitcat1108@aol.com or: 01962 733785 The Alresford Society A Civic Society for people interested in their local environment. We aim to encourage high standards in planning and preserve and enhance the town, village and surrounding countryside, encouraging community interest in these. We circulate to our members about local issues as they arise and seek their input. We also have an interesting social programme. Sue Alexander 01962732043 suealex13@ gmail.com The Giles Group A club for people with disabilities, and their carers, who meet in the Community Centre every Tuesday morning for a coffee and chat, and monthly on the second Monday afternoon for a talk or quiz. Bus transport is available, and longer outings are monthly, every third Monday. Drop in and see us, or call: 01962 732978 Royal Air Forces Association Were you, or are you, in the Royal Air Force? The Alresford and District branch of the R.A.F.A. meet at the Swan Hotel, Alresford on the first Thursday of each month, at 8:00 p.m. New members always welcome. Derek Sweetenham (Chairman) on 01962 733559, or Brian Gabriel (Secretary) on 01962 734482 The Royal British Legion To become a member please contact our sub-branch in Eastleigh. www.britishlegion.org. uk/branches/eastleigh. The Swan Ladies Club, Alresford Offers an evening of fun and good company. Dinner comprising two courses of excellent food, glass of wine plus coffee and mints are followed by interesting talks, demonstrations and quizzes etc. We also enjoy theatre trips, and days out. Meet at 7.00/7.15 pm in the Swan on the third Tuesday of each month. Dinner served at approx. 7.30 pm in the Restaurant or the Undercroft. New members welcome. Ring Liz Garton: 01962 733125 or Swan Hotel: 01962 732302 if you are interested. FO R U M | MOTORS 49 FO R U M | USEFUL INFORMATION USEFUL INFORMATION EMERGENCY SERVICES HOSPITALS Emergency Only (Ambulance, Fire, Police) Tel: 999 Alton, Hampshire Tel: 01420 82811 Non Emergency Medical Services: Tel: 111 Basingstoke, Hampshire Tel: 01256 473202 Electricity Emergency 24hrs, 7 days a week Tel: 08457 708090 Gas Emergency 24 hrs, 7 days a week Tel: 0800 111 999 Water Emergency 24 hrs, 7 days a week Tel: 0845 278 0845 ALRESFORD POLICE Alresford Police Station Closed Alresford Police are now located at the Fire Station (no public access) www.hampshire.police.uk 101 Service For non-Emergency Services Call Hampshire Police using: 101 CITIZENS ADVICE Winchester Citizens Advice Bureau Winchester Citizens Advice Bureau is back at the Alresford Surgery North Hants Hospital Royal Hampshire County Hospital Winchester, Hampshire Tel: 01962 863535 LIBRARY Alresford Library Monday 10.00 - 1.00 Tuesday 2.00 - 5.00 Wed/Sun Closed Thursday 10.00 - 1.00 Friday 10.00 - 7.00 Saturday 10.00 - 1.00 alresford.library@hants.gov.uk www3.hants.gov.uk/library.htm NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH Alresford and District Neighbourhood Watch Association Our newsletter will be included bi-monthly in the Forum and are available at www.alresford. org/neigbourhoodwatch. To report a crime anonymously call Crimestoppers: Tel: 0800 555 111 Enquiries contact: Administrator Jennie Roberts Tel: 01962 736505 e-mail jenniero987@gmail.com RECYCLING If you need help Contact CAB on 01962 848000 or drop in to the surgery on Mondays between 1- 3pm (not bank holidays) Prospect Road Recycling Centre Open seven days a week Tel: 01962 735961 COUNCILS SCHOOLS Alresford Town Council Arlebury Park, The Avenue, Alresford, Hants. SO24 9EP. Clerk: Mrs Stevie Kavanagh, email: skavanagh@newalresfordtc.org.uk Tel: 01962 732079 Cheriton Primary School Cheriton, Alresford, SO24 0QA Tel: 01962 771278 East Hampshire District Council Penns Place, Petersfield, GU31 4EX www.easthants.gov.uk Tel: 01730 266551 Itchen Abbas County Primary School Itchen Abbas, SO21 1BE Tel: 01962 779310 Hampshire County Council The Castle, Winchester, SO23 8UJ www.hants.gov.uk Tel: 0845 603 5638 Winchester City Council City Offices, Colebrook Street, Winchester, SO23 9LJ www.winchester.gov.uk Tel: 01962 840222 50 Alton Community Hospital Four Marks Primary School Four Marks, Alton, GU34 5AS Tel: 01962 772200 Perins School Pound Hill, Alresford, SO24 9BS www.perins.net Tel: 01962 734361 Ropley Primary School Church St. Ropley, SO24 ODS Tel: 01962 772381 Sun Hill Infant School Sun Lane, Alresford www.sunhill-inf.hants.sch.uk email: beverley.minall@sunhill -inf.hants.sch.uk Tel: 01962 732632 Sun Hill Junior School Sun Lane, Alresford www.sunhill-jun.hants.sch.uk Tel: 01962 732801 SURGERIES & CHEMISTS Alresford Dental Care 4 Pound Hill, Alresford www.alresforddentalcare.co.uk Surgery Hours: Monday to Thursday 9:00 to 17:15. Friday 08:00 to 13:45 Tel: 01962 733580 Alresford Pharmacy 1 East Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732858 Alresford Surgery Station Road, Alresford www.alresfordsurgery.co.uk Tel: 01962 732345 Mansfield Park Surgery Lymington Bottom Road, Medstead, GU34 5EW Tel: 01420 562922 Out of Hours Service Anyone requiring a chemist service out of practice hours will find their nearest point is either Winchester, Basingstoke or Andover. Call one of the below for details. Out of Hours Service - Tel: 0844 8113060 Wessex Pharmacy Broad Street, Alresford. Tel: 01962 732445 Winchester Cancer Support Centre Offering free, non-clinical support to anyone affected by cancer. 2nd Floor, 68 St Georges Street, Winchester. Chat to trained befrienders, try a complementary therapy or use our professional counselling service. Tue to Thur, 10am to 4.30pm. Tel: 01962 868576 or email winchester@ wessexcancer.org TOWN & VILLAGE HALLS Alresford Community Centre Two halls and committee room available for hire with concessions for local groups. Secretary: Robbie Winters (after 6pm)Tel: 01962 733950 Beauworth Village Hall A former national school in 1873 and listed building. The hall is heated. There is an enclosed patio and grass area ideal for children’s parties. Heating and kitchen facilities included. Please contact Felicity Morrogh. Tel: 01962 793075 Bighton Village Hall Large hall with ample car parking adjacent to a picnic area, has kitchen facilities and is fully heated. Gail Johnson: 01962 736556 e: bighton.hall. bookings@googlemail.com. www.bighton.org.uk Bishop’s Sutton Village Hall Perfectly suited to all kinds of functions. Ample car parking, full disabled access with a seating capacity of over 100. Crockery and cutlery available for hire. An attractive outlook over farmland. Please contact Vera 01962 736211 or email veralipscombe@gmail. com to place a booking or to arrange to view the hall. Bramdean and Hinton Ampner Village Hall Large, bright, centrally heated hall with stage. Well-appointed kitchen with commercial dishwasher. Car park, garden at the rear, full disabled access and facilities. Tel: 01962 771945 Cheriton Village Hall Available throughout the year for clubs, classes, meetings, parties etc. Tel; Penny: 01962 771263 Christy Hall, Old Alresford Available weekday mornings and some afternoons for bookings. Seating for up to 75 people. Hire costs include the use of the heating and all kitchen equipment. Diane Cox: 01962 735388 Itchen Abbas Village Hall Jenny Sloan - Tel: 07969 113630 www.iaavillagehall.co.uk Kilmeston Village Hall Perfectly suited for all kinds of functions. www. kilmestonvillagehall.co.uk or phone Melanie Hill: 01962 771388 or email bookings@ kilmestonvillagehall.co.uk The Old Chapel in The Dean Does your group or organisation need a comfortable, well equipped meeting place in the centre of Alresford, with full disabled facilities? Contact Jon: 07738 546921 or Eva: 07834 322183. Ropley Coffee Room Church Street, Ropley, Alresford, SO24 0DS. For bookings contact David Ottley: 01962 772440 Ropley Parish Hall Vicarage Lane, Ropley, SO24 0DU. For bookings contact Norma Day: 01962 772267 irey Tuning Co. FO R U M | MOTORS A With over 24 years on the rolling road we can solve all your problems up to 400 b.h.p • Classic and historic car engine tuning • Setting up of classic and vintage cars for modern fuels • Carburettor tuning and extensives spares for SU, Stromberg, Solex, Weber and Delorto • Full rolling road tuning for performance or economy or both • While you wait service (Bramdean) 01962 771845 www.aireytuning.com New Farm Motor Services Ltd New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QE 01962 732338 L.P.G.A approved autogas conversions www.autogas.com Allows your petrol engine vehicle to run on Autogas, a fuel costing approximately 76p per ltr, with the environmental benefits of a 20% reduction in carbon dioxide production and 2000 times fewer particulates produced from the exhaust fumes when compared with a diesel. Widely available across the country and locally in Winnall, Winchester and West Meon Hut service station. The government has committed to this fuel difference for the future. M.O.T Testing Centre • FREE COLLECTION • COURTESY CARS Class 7 Vans from 3,000 - 3,500kg Class 4 Cars and Vans up to 3,000kg All makes of cars and vans serviced and repaired All makes of truck and horsebox up to 7500kg maintained and prepared for ministry plating tests CERTIFICATED ENGINEERS • RECOVERY AVAILABLE • 51 FO R U M | EDUCATION EDUCATION LOCAL BOY FROM CHERITON WINS SCHOLARSHIP Patchwork, based at Perins School in Alresford, Hampshire provides flexible childcare places for 39 children aged from 6 month to 5 years, with part-time and full-time places and crèche sessions available. Government funding is also available for 3 and 4 year olds. Patchwork is proud of the relationship that they have built with parents and it was highlighted that the ‘Partnership with parents is a real strength of the setting underpinning the continuity of care and learning for each child.’ Nursery and Pre-school Manager, Nicola Baxter, commented, “We are delighted with the outcome of the inspection and we would like to thank all our parents for their commitment to help us get to where we are today.” Staff at Patchwork remain focused to becoming an outstanding setting and as confirmed in the report, ‘The senior managers have a clear vision for the setting. They continually develop systems and procedures, to fully involve the staff team and parents.’ Ms Baxter, continued, “All at Patchwork work incredibly hard to ensure exceptional care for all children. The team will continue to work hard to ensure that Patchwork’s successes will carry on into the future.” L ocal boy Lewis Clark from Cheriton wins special Academy Scholarship to The Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London. As this is only part funded we need help with sponsorship/funding, it is a great opportunity for him. He has trained very hard for this, he currently trains with The Florian School of Dance and every other Sunday he attends a Classical Ballet Academy at Tring Park School for the Performing Arts. We are looking for sponsorship to raise the rest of the money. If you can help Lewis to live his dream please contact michellepclarkuk@ yahoo.co.uk PATCHWORK CELEBRATE AFTER OFSTED INSPECTION INTRODUCING THE NEW MEMBER OF THE DOFE TEAM I started to do my Duke of Edinburgh award because my older sisters both did it and really enjoyed it. I did my Bronze, silver and gold expedition sections straight after each other but didn’t start doing the other sections until later on. I volunteered for a charity shop for my bronze but after starting work it’s hard to find time to volunteer in shops because, I would only be able to volunteer on weekends. A friend who did her expedition sections with me was helping out at our DofE centre and suggested that I might like to try that. It would be two hours every other Thursday which was great because it would fit around work. I was slightly worried at first that I wouldn’t remember things so I wouldn’t be too helpful but I started going along to a bronze evening and it went really well. I started helping with a Bronze Team and it was really great helping them to achieve their award and going on walks and expeditions with them. I completed my silver volunteering and felt a great achievement on seeing a group achieve their award this then encourage me to keep volunteering at DofE for my gold volunteering but this year I am helping out with a silver group which is slightly more challenging because they are at a higher level than the bronzes. I am really enjoying myself and not only am I helping the DofE group by volunteering I am also improving my confidence and leadership skills and looking forward to seeing my Silver Team achieved their Award. P atchwork Day Nursery & Pre-School is celebrating following a visit from Ofsted. The final report saw the setting change to ‘good’ and confirms that Patchwork are well on their way to becoming an outstanding setting. The report states that the children in both settings ‘interact and play well together’ and ‘enjoy the free flow between the rooms and garden enabling them to take responsibility for where they play.’ 52 Remember that DofE does not stop when you finish your award! HCC DofE always needs new volunteers and where best to look for them than among those who have been through the process! Here is an example of a young person who has done just that! If you know anyone who wishes to join the DofE Leader team, please contact the DofE office on 01962 876 323 or e mail: dofe@ hants.gov.uk We would love to have you on board! By Lilian Cryer - Basingstoke ODC italian for beginners & improvers for travel, business, exams, or just for pleasure! FO R U M | EDUCATION parliamo italiano! stella hawkins ba hons mod langs t. 01420 561654 stella.e.hawkins@gmail.com ADVERTISE WITH US! and reach up to 14,900 readers in Alresford and the Itchen Valley Eighth page placements: £43 Quarter page placements: £75 Half page placements: £141 Discounts are available on 3, 6 and 12 month bookings. For more information email: marketing@forumpublications.co.uk FRENCH TUITION Offered by experienced teacher, UK and France, who is happy to teach all levels of ability. For more information call: 01962 734007 53 FO R U M | FEATURE HAMPSHIRE PEOPLE S P E A K S TO JAC K S T E I N J ack Stein is a man on the move. When not working hard in the newly opened ‘Rick Stein’ restaurant in Winchester he is travelling, not only to and from Cornwall, but all over the world sourcing new and exciting ways to cook food. The ‘Stein philosophy’ seems to be:- fantastic fresh food cooked simply and to perfection so that we get a whole range of exciting flavours. Would you add to that statement? I’ve tried to disprove this by experimenting with more complicated styles of cooking and quite quickly realised my family were right. The Forum manages to catch a moment or two in Jack’s busy schedule to talk about his obvious passion for food and his excitement for cooking ‘live at this years’ Alresford Watercress Festival. What drew you to Hampshire? My brother and his family live in Winchester and have always raved about the produce from Hampshire and the New Forest. After visiting over the last decade, it was an obvious choice. Do you have a favourite place here? My brother got married in a beautiful place called Preshaw Estate - that is filled with great memories for me. What is your mantra for life? “It’s better to have complicated simplicity than just being simply complicated” – that’s basically Rick’s “fresh fish, simply cooked” motto updated! What three things couldn’t you do without? My cocker spaniel, Bocca, the ocean and travel. We hear a great deal about the ‘signature dish’ of a professional chef, but when you’re not working what is the dish you enjoy cooking just for you? Ruby Red sirloin on the bone with baked potato and tomato, basil and mozzarella salad – it’s a random combination but my comfort food. 54 Recently my husband attended a seafood cookery day down in Padstow (which was fabulous); they had a long discussion about the use of salt in cooking. Do you see salt as the bad boy of the ingredients world? The best way to use salt, is to use unrefined sea salt and to add it at every stage of cooking as this reduces the overall amount that you have to use. You need to layer up the flavours to get the best combination. FO R U M | FEATURE This year for the first time you are kindly coming to demonstrate at the Alresford Watercress Festival, do you enjoy cooking for a live audience? Yes I love it – my style is quite rambling, but I find it very easy to talk to a crowd and share my enthusiasm for cooking. I’m really looking forward to demoing at Alresford Watercress Festival for the first time. You have a BSc in Psychology and a MA in Ancient History has cooking totally taken over from those interests? Absolutely not, I use psychology on a day-to-day basis at work and my ancient history degree informs my future direction in terms of historical cooking methods Can you remember the first dish you cooked for your mum and dad? I made them hummus when I was 12 and working at The Seafood Restaurant, Padstow. That’s our flagship restaurant which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. How important do you think it is to educate children how to cook and install a love of fresh ingredients? Extremely important – we are actively involved in Cornwall working with local schools to teach healthy eating and cooking with our ‘adopt a school’ project. We are currently introducing our Winchester team to this project so we can bring this to Winchester too. What next for Jack Stein? I’m currently working with a local farmer on an exciting project in Padstow, so watch this space! Having travelled so extensively, Europe, the Far East and Australia have you found anywhere that you would like to settle permanently, and what brings you back to the UK? I’d love to buy some land in Northern Sumatra as the surf is epic, the people are lovely and it’s so peaceful, but I would never want to move from the UK permanently. With Jack’s boundless energy, passion and enthusiasm he’ll soon have another success on his hands. What is the style of cooking that informs most of your dishes? British World food – bringing world flavours to British ingredients. Cooking is now such a life-style phenomena with so many brilliant amateur chefs how do you ensure that you continue to be fresh and innovative? Constantly visiting new suppliers and travelling to see how other food cultures create flavours etc. Having just opened a beautiful restaurant in Winchester are you missing coastal life? I split my time between Winchester and Cornwall so just spend twice as many hours in the sea when I get home! You too may have a chance to meet Jack Stein at the Alresford Watercress Festival on Sunday 17th May where he will be cooking live in the Festivals outdoor kitchen in Broad Street. GG. For more information on Jack Stein visit: www.rickstein.com For more information on the Watercress Festival visit: www.watercressfestival.org 55 FO R U M | FOOD & DRINK FOOD & DRINK HAMPSHIRE'S CHOCOLATE MAKERS IMPRESS (TUE - SAT) T wo Hampshire Fare members impressed judges this week at the Academy of Chocolate Awards. Winchester Cocoa Company was awarded a bronze for its Earl Grey with Lemon chocolate and gold for a Ginger and Muscovado chocolate. Meanwhile Chocolate by Miss Witt was awarded bronze for her Seasalt and Caramel Water Ganache. This year’s Awards received a record number of entries with over 500 products. As a result more judges were involved in the jury panel and the judging, which took place at Westminster Kingsway College, was extended to five days. Chaired by globally respected wine expert Charles Metcalfe, judges included chocolate experts and buyers, pastry chefs, food professionals and food journalists. Judges included food writers and bloggers: Xanthe Clay, Andrew Baker, Jennifer Earle, Lee McCoy, Zoe Perrett, Spencer Hyman, Jill Norman, Henrietta Green, Aggie McKenzie, Jenny Linford, Joanna Wood, Janie Suthering; Buyers from Fortnum & Mason, Harrods, Selfridges, Marks & Spencer; Chocolatiers/Patissiers: Cecilia Tessieri, Iain Burnett, Amelia Rope, Claire Clark MBE, James Petrie and Steven James from the University of West London; and AoC members: Kate Johns, Christopher Reeves and John Adams. The Grand Jury comprised: Charles Metcalfe (Chairman); Sarah Jane Evans; Fiona Gately; Judith Lewis; Marie-Pierre Moine; Sara Jayne Stanes; Janie Suthering; Paul a Young. Both Hampshire chocolate makers support local producers. Kerry Witt, founder and owner of Chocolate by Miss Witt, uses Hildon Natural Mineral Water to make H20 ganache which enhances the true taste of the flavours within the different cacao beans. Kerry also uses jam from local producer, naked jam. The Winchester Cocoa company recipes feature local Summerdown Mint, Twisted Nose Gin and coffee from Winchester Coffee Roasters. Kerry Witt commented on the announcement: “I am delighted with the bronze award. I am ever so pleased for Winchester Cocoa Company too. We are both relatively new to chocolate making which makes it an even better achievement. I feel that here in Hampshire we are catching up with many of London’s top chocolatiers.” 56 SET VISIT OUR STREET KITCHEN AT THE ALRESFORD WATERCRESS FESTIVAL 2015 Drop in for our exclusive new arrivals from across the world Drop in for our exclusive new arrivals from across the world FO R U M | FOOD & DRINK Marvellous May Marvellous May Drop in for our exclusive new arrivalsMay from across the world Marvellous Drop in for our exclusive new arrivals from across the world Drop in for our exclusive new arrivals from across the world 5% 0ff any 6 5% 0ff any 6 ffff 55%%00 5a%nny0yf6f6 a 6 threeJust of our great newgreat Spring allwines sourced anyall three of our newwines Spring s 99 Les Parcelles Les Sauvignon Blanc , Loire Valley, France Parcelles Sauvignon Blanc , Loire Valley, France by Simon sourced by Simon £12.99 ea “ Produced the Sancerre style, superb elegant fruit flavour “great Produced in the Sancerre style, superb elegant fruit flavourby “ three ofinour new Spring wines all“ sourced £12.99 ea Just Simon Domaine 3 Source Rose , Source Provence, France £13.99 JustJust three of Parcelles our wines sourced bySimon Simonea three of our greatnew new Spring wines all sourced by Domaine 3great Rose ,Spring Provence, France £13.99 Les Sauvignon Blanc , Loire Valley, France £12.99ea ea “ Pale pink and just delicate, just about as good as itabout getsflavour “ good “ Produced in theand Sancerre style, superb elegant fruit “ as it gets “ “ so Pale pink just so delicate, just as Parcelles Sauvignon Blanc , LoireValley, Valley,France France £12.99 eaea Les Les Parcelles Sauvignon Blanc , Loire £12.99 Domaine 3 ,Source Rose , Provence, France £13.99ea ea “ Produced in the Sancerre style, superb elegant fruit flavour “ Mas Tarrone Mas Grenache Cataluyna, Spain £8.99 “ Produced in the Sancerre style, superb elegant fruit flavour “ Tarrone Grenache , Cataluyna, £8.99 ea “ Pale pink and just so delicate, just Spain about as good as it gets “ “Domaine amazing value from this winery, big juicy red fruits “ soft red fruits “ amazing from thissoft winery, big juicy “ ea 3 Source Rose , value Provence, France £13.99 Domaine 3 Source Rose , Provence, France £13.99 Mas Tarrone Grenache Cataluyna, Spainjust about as good as it gets “ £8.99 ea ea “ Pale pink and ,just so delicate, amazing from this winery, big juicy redasfruits “ “ “ Pale“pink and value just so delicate, just about as soft good it gets Mas Tarrone Grenache, Cataluyna, Spain simon@tngwine.co.uk £8.99 ea simon@tngwine.co.uk Mas Tarrone Grenache , Cataluyna, Spain £8.99 ea “ amazing value from this winery, big juicysimon@tngwine.co.uk soft red fruits “ Wines Wines FromFrom £5.99 £5.99 Wines From Wines £5.99 From £5.99 01962 732002 40 Alresford Four 01962 732002 01420 56206040 Marks Four Marks 01420 562060 Imported simon@tngwine.co.uk Four Marks 01420 562060 01962 732002 Alresford “ amazing value from this winery,Alresford big juicy soft red fruits “ simon@tngwine.co.uk Alresford 01962 732002 Four Marks 01420 562060 Alresford Four Marks 01962 732002 01420 562060 Imported Lagers Lagers 40 40 Imported Lagers 40 Imported Lagers Imported Lagers Come and Celebrate the start of spring with us with tea, cake and the best of local produce in the beautiful setting of Longstock Park Enjoy our Shop, Café and Nursery Open 9-5.30 Sunday 10-4 Longstock Park Nursery, Stockbridge SO20 6EH . Telephone 01264 810270 57 TTE ES STTVA VALLLLEEYY FORUM FORUM T T EE SS T T VA VA LL LL EE Y Y NOW NOW reaching reaching 6,000 6,000 more more readers readers (see (see page page 22) 22) • • • NOW reaching 6,000 Hampshire speaks • NOW People reaching 6,000 Hampshire People speaks more to readers (see page 22) Jack Stein (page 40) to Jack Stein (page 40) • • more readers (see page 22) • Hampshire People Events speaks • May News • May News & & Events • Hampshire People speaks • • M AY 2015 • I SS U E 83 • M AY 2015 • I SS U E 83 • STOCKBRIDGE STOCKBRIDGE HORSEBRIDGE HORSEBRIDGE to Jack Stein (page (page 40) Hampshire Hampshire Hogs Hogs (page 38) 38) to JackNews Stein&(page 40) • May Events • May News & Events (page W W W. T E S T VA L L E Y FO R U M . C O • . UHampshire K • R E AC H I NHogs G 19,900 R E A D 38) ERS W W W. T E S T VA L L E Y FO R U M . C O . U K • R E AC H I N G 19,900 R E A D E R S • Hampshire Hogs (page 38) KING’S SOMBORNE KING’S SOMBORNE HOUGHTON HOUGHTON NORTH HOUGHTON NORTH HOUGHTON BROUGHTON BROUGHTON LECKFORD LECKFORD LONGSTOCK LONGSTOCK CHILBOLTON CHILBOLTON GOODWORTH CLATFORD GOODWORTH CLATFORD UPPER WALLOP OVERRWALLOP WHERWELL ABBOTTS ANNR LITTLE M AY 2015ROMSEY • I SS U ECLATFORD 83 • NETHER W W W. T E SMIDDLE T VA WALLOP L L E Y FO U M . CCRAWLEY O . U K SPARSHOLT • R E AC H I N G 19,900 E A DANN ERS ROMSEY UPPER CLATFORD NETHER WALLOP MIDDLE WALLOP OVER WALLOP CRAWLEY SPARSHOLT WHERWELL ABBOTTS ANN LITTLE ANN M AY 2015 • I SS U E 83 • W W W. T E S T VA L L E Y FO R U M . C O . U K • R E AC H I N G 19,900 R E A D E R S ISSUE 83 TEST VALLEY.indd 1 ISSUEHORSEBRIDGE 83 TEST VALLEY.indd KING’S 1 TOCKBRIDGE SOMBORNE HOUGHTON NORTH HOUGHTON BROUGHTON LECKFORD LONGSTOCK CHILBOLTON 20/04/2015 14:12:09 20/04/2015CLATFOR 14:12:09 GOODWORTH ROMSEY UPPER CLATFORD NETHER WALLOP MIDDLE WALLOP OVER WALLOP CRAWLEYLECKFORD SPARSHOLTLONGSTOCK WHERWELL CHILBOLTON ABBOTTS ANNGOODWORTH LITTLE ANNCLATF KBRIDGE HORSEBRIDGE KING’S SOMBORNE HOUGHTON NORTH HOUGHTON BROUGHTON FORUM FORD T T EE SS T T VA VA LL LL EE Y Y On Sunday 17th May 2015, this nationally acclaimed annual festival brings together the local community and food lovers from far and wide to celebrate watercress - the superb locally grown, delicious and versatile crop On Sunday 17th May 2015, this nationally acclaimed annual festival brings together localCountry community andMarket food Town' lovers from far and wide to celebrate Alresfordthe was voted Life's 'Favourite in the South-East. So it is no surprise that the entire centre of New Alresford in Hampshire becomes a huge and street versatile festival, withcrop. Hampshire Farmers' watercress - the superb locally grown, delicious Market and others creating a large food market showcasing the very best local producers. Alresford was voted Country Life's 'Favourite Market Town' in the South-East. So it is no surprise that the entire interested centre of in New in Hampshire becomes a huge street festival, Farmers' If you're arts,Alresford crafts, jewellery and clothing, items for house and garden,with you'llHampshire find them and Market a large foodmarket. marketMusic showcasing the are very best local producers muchand else others besidescreating in the large festival and dance central to theproducers. festival, so find time to enjoy performances by the bands, Morris dancers and local school children. If you're interested in arts, crafts, jewellery and clothing, items for house and garden, you'll find them and much else besides in the large festival market. Music and dance are central to the festival, so find time to One of the main highlights of the festival is the street cavalcade at 10.30am with jazz musicians, Morris enjoy performances by the bands, Morris dancers and local school children. dancers and local school children accompanying the Watercress King and Queen who sit atop a horse and One of the main highlights of the festival is the street cavalcade at 10.30am with jazz musicians, Morris cart. The children will be distributing the first of the season’s watercress harvest to festival-goers. dancers and local school children accompanying the Watercress King and Queen who sit atop a horse and the day, is provided many musicians and performers cart. Throughout The children willentertainment be distributing the firstbyofthethe season’s watercress harvest and to there festival-goers. are activities for children of all ages, including circus skills workshops, face painting and a petting Throughout the day, entertainment is provided by the many musicians and performers farm. and there Now a Guinness World RecordTM, the “World Watercress Eating Championships” continue by popular are activities for children of all ages, including circus skills workshops, face painting and a petting farm. demand, will youWatercress be a record Eating breaker?Championships” continue by popular Now a Guinness World RecordTM, the “World demand, will you be a record breaker? CookeryDemo Demoin inBroad Broad Street Cookery Street Watch well-knownaward-winning award-winning chefs food writers demonstrate Watch well-known chefs andand food writers demonstrate their skills and some mouth-watering recipes. their skills and some mouth-watering recipes. Andy Chef Exclusive Chef 's Academy AndyMacKenzie MacKenzie- -Executive Executive Chef Exclusive Chef's Academy Rosemary Moon food writer and broadcaster Rosemary Moon - food writer and broadcaster Jack Stein Stein--Rick RickStein SteinSeafood SeafoodRestaurant, Restaurant, Winchester Jack Winchester Miff Kayum --Bengal BengalSage Sage&&Kyoto KyotoKitchen Kitchen Restaurants, Winchester • NOW reaching Miff Kayum Restaurants, Winchester NOW reaching 6,000 6,000 more readers (see 22) more (see page page 22) We hope thatthat youyou will with what the festival and of We hope willbe bedelighted delighted with what the festival and thereaders townthe of town • Hampshire People speaks • enjoyable New Alresford have offerand and that have a thoroughly day out! New Alresford have to tooffer thatyou you have a thoroughly enjoyable day out! Hampshire People speaks to www.watercressfestival.org @watercressfest www.watercressfestival.org @watercressfest to Jack Jack Stein Stein (page (page 40) 40) • May News & Events • May News & Events • • • Hampshire Hampshire Hogs Hogs (page (page 38) 38) M AY 2015 • I SS U E 83 • W W W. T E S T VA L L E Y FO R U M . C O . U K • R E AC H I N G 19,900 R E A D E R S M AY 2015 • I SS U E 83 • W W W. T E S T VA L L E Y FO R U M . C O . U K • R E AC H I N G 19,900 R E A D E R S STOCKBRIDGE STOCKBRIDGE HORSEBRIDGE HORSEBRIDGE ROMSEY ROMSEY KING’S SOMBORNE KING’S SOMBORNE UPPER CLATFORD UPPER CLATFORD ISSUE 83 TEST VALLEY.indd 1 ISSUE 83 TEST VALLEY.indd 1 HOUGHTON HOUGHTON NETHER WALLOP NETHER WALLOP NORTH HOUGHTON NORTH HOUGHTON MIDDLE WALLOP MIDDLE WALLOP BROUGHTON BROUGHTON OVER WALLOP OVER WALLOP LECKFORD LECKFORD CRAWLEY CRAWLEY LONGSTOCK LONGSTOCK SPARSHOLT SPARSHOLT CHILBOLTON CHILBOLTON WHERWELL WHERWELL GOODWORTH CLATFORD GOODWORTH CLATFORD ABBOTTS ANN ABBOTTS ANN LITTLE ANN LITTLE ANN 20/04/2015 14:12:09 20/04/2015 14:12:09 FO R U M | FOOD & DRINK HAMPSHIRE HOGS THE FORUM SEEKS OUT INDEPENDENT HAMPSHIRE FOOD, WINE AND ALE PRODUCERS H ampshire born, Hampshire bred. Strong in the arm and thick in the head, so the saying goes. Strong in the arm for sure, but thick in the head? I don’t think so! Across Hampshire local producers are creating the most traditional, delicious and exciting products. In a new column the Forum seeks out our very own independent Hampshire food, wine and ale producers. We find out the story behind their passion for excellence and celebrate produce that is putting Hampshire on the culinary map. We start this celebration with a pop as we visit the beautifully situated Danebury Vineyards and chat to Faith in the estate office, the manager, Patrick and marketing manager Caroline, who has placed Danebury wines at prestigious outlets throughout Hampshire and in London. It is a privately owned estate located near Stockbridge, in the heart of Hampshire, on the paddocks of what was a famous nineteenth-century racehorse training yard. The vineyards cover seven acres of sheltered, south-facing fields on chalk and flint-stone soil. Our long summer days allow for maximum ripening, strong fruit flavours and a balanced level of acidity, and the chalk and flint soil, characteristic of the region, lends the wine its minerality. We are proud that the quality of our wine is reflected by the awards they have won at international wine tasting competitions and that our wines are poured in some of the top establishments in Hampshire, and London.” I asked Caroline and Faith about their particular favourites: they chose ‘Cossack’, a vintage brut sparkling wine which is made from a blend of Auxerrois and Rulander grapes, in the traditional method of fermentation in the bottle, then laid on its lees for four years. This fabulous fizz is ideal for summer meals, to drink on its own, or for celebrations, it’s perfect. And now the warmer weather is on its way - Madeleine Angevine, which was awarded a Commended medal in the Sommelier Wine Awards 2014. It’s made from a white grape originating in the Loire Valley and suited to the cooler English climate, and produces an elegant fruity wine with a flowery nose. It’s crisp and dry and is an ideal accompaniment for summer seafood, or just sipping in the sunshine. The great news is, the 2011 vintage currently on sale has only 94 calories for a 175ml glass, so you really can spoil yourself! Patrick explained: “Our first vines were planted in 1988 and today we produce our flagship vintage brut sparkling wine ‘Cossack’, two varietal still white wines Madeleine Angevine and Schönburger, and the Danebury Reserve, a blend of all our grape varieties. Although England is on the very fringes of the wine producing regions of the world, we can produce outstanding and distinct wines. 60 You can buy Danebury wines from ‘Wine Utopia’ 4 St. Thomas St, S023 9HE, Winchester (01962 706666). For more information about Danebury Vineyards, visit www.danebury.com. Sousa Richards Solicitors Spring into summer with new beginnings! Sousa Richards solicitors are based in Alresford and Southampton. Lucy Clarke, of our conveyancing department has been practising residential and commercial property law since she qualified in 2007. Lucy lives in Alresford and joined the firm in November 2014, in that time she has built up a fantastic client base and is actively involved in the local community. Whether you are starting summer by moving home, a first time buyer or starting a new business we can provide the positive and constructive property law advice and assistance you will need. Our primary focus is always exceptional client care and communication so that you know where you are every step of the way. If you would like a quote for the costs of moving home or office, or any other property issue please contact us for a free initial appointment: 01962 670510 or visit our website www.sousarichards.co.uk for more information. Why choose us? • Free initial, no obligation consultation – however long it takes • No hidden costs – the price we quote is the price you will pay, we also offer payment plans and fixed fees where appropriate • Responsive & proactive – same day response • Direct personal contact – direct contact with your solicitor Legendary House • 4a Broad Street • Alresford • SO24 9AQ Legendary House • 4a Broad Street • Alresford • SO24 9AQ Tel: 01962 670510 www.sousarichards.co.uk Tel: 01962 670510 www.sousarichards.co.uk enquiries@sousarichards.co.uk enquiries@sousarichards.co.uk 16 College Place • SOUTHAMPTON Southampton • SO15 2FE T: 02380 713060 16 COLLEGE PLACE • SO15 2FE T: 02380 713060 61 FO R U M | FOOD & DRINK FOOD & DRINK HAMPSHIRE FARMERS’ MARKETS CELEBRATES NATIONAL PICNIC WEEK M ost of us have happy memories of family and friends' picnics from our childhood or as adults, bringing together the important people in our lives to enjoy our favourite foods in beautiful places. Hampshire not only has an abundance of beautiful places to hold picnics, it also has an abundance of award winning local, in season, fresh produce - with a vast range available all in one place, from the renowned Hampshire Farmers’ Markets, a community, not for profit organisation that supports local producers, the rural economy and helps to protect rural employment. The Hampshire Farmers’ Markets will be celebrating National Picnic Week from 13th - 21st June and Alex Handford, the HFM Business Manager commented: “We have such a wide selection of delicious food at our markets that are perfect picnic hamper fillers, with our award winning cheeses, handmade pies, quiches, pastries, artisan breads, cakes, fruit, salads, all kinds of meat, game, fish, vegetarian options and locally produced wine, beer and juices.” Picnic shoppers can find all they need for a memorable day out by strolling around the stalls at one of the Hampshire Farmers’ Markets held at Petersfield, Romsey, Alton, Emsworth, Southsea and Ringwood each month, with Winchester holding fortnightly mid-month and end of the month markets. The vibrant market atmosphere and colourful stalls attract shoppers who can see, sample and savour the wide range of high quality produce on offer - all local, seasonal, fresh and fully traceable, with every producer having to meet the strict high criteria set down by the Hampshire Farmers’ Markets. 62 “Anyone who wants to plan a picnic can also have a lot of fun coming to our markets to shop, meet the people who have produced the food, get to sample the food and to enjoy the vibrant market atmosphere,” continued Alex Handford. “Visitors to our markets are also pleasantly surprised by how affordable our produce is and we regularly do price comparison surveys to ensure good value, plus we have special offers on the day and on our website.” There is always a wide range of delicious picnic produce at each market including award winning cheeses, delicious pickles and chutney, smoked trout, fruit, vegetables, salads, sun drenched tomatoes, fresh caught fish from the Solent waters and award winning sausages. There are also sweet treats too with homemade cakes, fudge and soft seasonal fruits such as strawberries, which make a perfect end to a picnic. “Many of our shoppers enjoy their own picnic as they shop in the market, gazing, sampling and tasting as they wander around, enjoying a breakfast bap or some cheese and artisan bread or from our wide range of to go foods,” continued Alex Handford. “A visit to the market is a lovely way to spend a Sunday morning and where picnic planners can come and gather up all they need for their picnics.” For more information about the Hampshire Farmers’ Markets - held in Winchester and also their other markets at Petersfield, Romsey, Alton, Emsworth, Southsea and Ringwood each month, and additional Summer Food Festivals at Southampton Bedford Place on 21st June and The Southsea Food Festival on 19th July visit: www. hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk Baking the perfect cake can be tricky. Choosing the right Solicitor need not be. While we can’t advise you on how to be the ‘Star Baker’, we can advise you on all things legal. As a highly respected law firm working with both local and national clients, we understand that for many, selecting the right solicitor can be a difficult process. We’re here to make the decision easier for you. Wills, Inheritance Tax Planning, Powers of Attorney, Guardianship, Trusts, Cohabitation Agreements, Pre & Post Nups, Separation, Divorce, Child Contact, Buying and Selling Houses, Employment Law G ODWIN S SOLICITORS Tel: 01962 841484 Email: info@godwins-law.co.uk www.godwins-law.co.uk 12 St Thomas Street, Winchester SO23 9HF FO R U M | ANIMAL & PET SERVICES ANIMAL & PET SERVICES BITING THE HAND THAT FEEDS YOU, COMMON REASONS FOR AGGRESSION IN RABBITS R abbits are a prey species, this inturn is responsible for much of the behaviour we see in our domesticated bunnies. The only time a rabbit in the wild would be picked up is once it has been predated by a larger animal.This instinct is still present in pet rabbits and will explain why most of our rabbits will kick, scratch or even bite when we go to pick them up. The key to this is regular, safe handling from a very young age. Many people who get rabbits at an older age will have their hands full when trying to handle a rabbit that is not used to being held. Rabbits have relatively fragile skeletons with strong muscles and correct support when they are picked up is essential. This includes support under the bottom and the chest; this helps them to feel secure. Hormones also play an important part in rabbit behaviour. Entire female rabbits can be incredibly aggressive and protective over their living quarters. If this behaviour is not acted upon at an early age then it can be very hard to rectify. Neutering can assist this aggression by reducing hormone levels in both male and female rabbits, but earlier neutering of a young rabbit is advised before this becomes a learnt behaviour. There are important medical reasons for neutering rabbits as well; it has been reported that over 80% of female rabbits over the age of two years will develop uterine cancer. Testicular cancer is also seen in domesticated male rabbits. Other reasons for aggression in rabbits can include pain of some type. Dental disease is a common problem in pet rabbits, it can cause pain and discomfort in the mouth, head and eye area, regular checks with your veterinary surgeon are advised to monitor this and feeding a correct diet is of the upmost importance in helping to prevent this. Some rabbits however will never be happy to be handled despite correct handling, neutering and providing all the comforts necessary to make them feel entirely safe. There is much more to rabbits than has historically been thought. A lone rabbit in a hutch at the end of the garden is now not enough. For more information regarding rabbits or aggression in rabbits why not have a look at some of the rabbit related events on for rabbit awareness week this year running from 9th-17th of May. THE WESSEX DOG WA L K I N G • Group/Sole Walks • Home Visits • Fully Liability Insured • Small pet care Co. E MMA SUMP ST E R T: 07450 57528 4 E : E MIJAY1970@ME .COM WE SSE X DOGWALKS aIndependent practice with free onsite parking and convenient location a24 hour emergency service provided by our own staff aFully equipped on site laboratory for quick diagnostic results aPractice health care plan to spread the cost of routine treatment aHome visits available for your convenience A dedicated team working together to improve the health and wellbeing of your pets ALTON: 01420 82163 ALRESFORD: 01962 732535 FOUR MARKS: 01420 562048 64 cedarvet.com facebook.com/cedarvet FO R U M | HEADING 65 FO R U M | CLUBS & SOCIETIES / LEGAL & FINANCIAL CLUBS & SOCIETIES SENIOR CITIZENS Alresford Day Care Centre Chiltern Court, Beech Road Tuesday and Thursday. Run by a professional and volunteer team. A sociable and enjoyable day out for the housebound elderly. Gives carers a break. Transport and lunch provided. Part funded by Age Concern. Tel: 01962 735612 Senior Citizens Hour Meetings are held each Wednesday at 14:30 at New Farm Chapel. Meetings are informal and consist of quizzes, talks, craft and refreshments. New members are always welcome. Contact: Mrs Jill Hardiman, 6 Mallard Close, Alresford. Tel: 01962 733765 Alresford Senior Citizens Lunch Club At the Methodist Hall – Alresford Do you have some free time? Would you like to help elderly people in your local community? Volunteer helpers, men or women, are urgently needed to join our friendly team to set up tables, serve and clear/ wash up (fast dishwasher), after a 2 course lunch for the elderly ladies and gentlemen of Alresford every Thursday in the month starting at 11.00, or can you collect the money before the meal? Come along and see what we do. The ladies and gents are a very cheerful bunch and have many stories to tell. If you can spare 2/3 hours whenever possible on a Thursday morning please contact: Liz Garton: 01962 733125 or Elaine Secluna: 01962 733192 Many thanks Saturday Evening Bridge Join us for Duplicate Bridge; we are a small friendly club playing in Makins Court. No partner required - any standard of play. Contact Margot Power, 01962 734167 or Ron Turner 01420 543187. SPORTS CLUBS ACA Badminton Club Friendly club seeks new members, plays on a Monday evening 7.3010.00pm at Alresford Community Centre. All levels welcome. Call Clive Earthy: 01962 733812 or Caroline Lowman: 01962 733155 Alresford Badminton Club We are a friendly club that caters for all abilities up to local league standard 66 and all ages from 14yrs and up. Membership is available, or just turn up to play and pay on Wednesday evenings at Perins Sports Hall from 19.00 hrs. Come and give us a try, your first visit is free, we look forward to seeing you. Contact: Ralph Pointer 01962 734833 or ralph.judyp@ tiscali.co.uk www.alresford badminton.co.uk Alresford Bowling Club Sun Lane - Our season is from April to September and we meet for roll-ups on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10.00 - 12 noon and Thursday evenings from 6.00 -8.00p.m. Lawn bowls is a great game, not just for the retired but for adults of all ages and we can provide bowls for you to have a go. Further information from Gail Straker (club secretary): 01962 732438 and on the club website www.alresfordbowlingclub.org.uk Alresford Golf Club The Secretary, Cheriton Road, Tichborne Down, Alresford. Tel: 01962 733746. secretary@alresfordgolf.co.uk www.alresfordgolf.co.uk Alresford Netball Club Meets on Thursdays at Perins School, 6pm - 7.30pm on the tennis courts. New members welcome. First session free, thereafter £10 per month. Opportunity to affiliate and play in local leagues should you wish to. Or just come for training sessions, to get fit and meet new friends. Donna Birtles: 01420 561755 or 07860 931150. donnabirtles@ fsmail.net Alresford Rugby Football Club Tuesday evenings at 6.30 for 7.00pm start – newcomers welcome. Minis sessions are held at Perins School on Sundays at 10.00am for one hour (during term time). Seniors’ Head Coach: 07964 423001. Minis Secretary minis@alresfordrfc. co.uk or visit www.alresfordrfc.co.uk Alresford Tennis Club Howard Lewis: 01962 733818 Alresford Su-Ha-Ri Karate School For children ages 5-16 years, Thursday 7pm - 8pm at Alresford Community Centre. Contact Cassie & Tony Whelan on Tel: 01420 568135 act4health@hotmail.com Alresford Yacht Club We welcome all interested in boats, sailing or power, large or small, modern or classic. Whether you are a newcomer to the sport or an old hand, both if you own a boat or would like to crew. Meetings will be held at Alresford Recreational Centre on the 3rd Monday of each month until April at 7.30pm. Contact Valerie: 01962 808827 valeriej.powell@tiscali.co.uk Chawton Park Indoor Bowls Club Six rinks available throughout the year. Information from Centre Manager. Chawton Park Road, Alton. Tel: 01420 541546 Cheriton Cricket Club Are you interested in playing Sunday afternoon friendly cricket? Contact Nick: 07931 456214 , info@cheritoncc.com www.cheritoncc.com Cheriton Tennis Club Coaching with Mike Aggiss. Adult, junior and mini courses including Cardio Tennis. Ladies Tennis Morning with Mike on Thursdays 9.30-10.30am. Pay and play session open to members (£4) and non members(£5.50). Enquiries to Donna at Don Perrin Tennis: 07928 855175 www.cheritontennisclub.co.uk Children’s Judo Club Lance Wicks Telephone: 07787565233 Email: lw@judocoach.com Cyclists’ Touring Club South Hampshire. Easy rides, day rides, social events and more! Tel: 01962 864479 www.southhampshirectc.org.uk Judo Club Perins School on Monday nights. From 7-8pm - Year 3 to year 6 children. From 8-9pm – Year 7+ children. Contact: Steve Fullick, 10 Perins Close, Alresford Tel: 01962 732883 Old Alresford Cricket Club Home pitch - Upton Park Farm, Old Alresford. New Players welcomed at any time. John Stanbrook: 01962 733612 or Mike Armitage: 07878008853 Tel: 01420 568135 act4health@hotmail.com Practical Wing Chun Classes Adult self-defence classes Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm - 8:30pm in The Studio on The Dean, Alresford. Additional classes in Winchester. Contact Gary: 07986 298283 or see www.uctuk.co.uk Ropley Tennis Club Located at rear of Ropley playing field. New members welcome. Coaching sessions throughout week for all levels www.ropleytennis.org.uk Tai Chi New beginners classes starting soon at Community Centre Tuesday afternoons and evenings. Men only class also possible. Suitable for all ages, no floorwork. Call: 02380 651223 or email taichienquiries@gmail.com for details. Tichborne Park Cricket Club 14 Benenden Green, Alresford, SO24 9PF. Contact: Andy Joyce Tel: 01962 734316 andypjoyce@hotmail.com Anne Allen LL.B Willmanage.com Your local professional Wills specialist CRB checked. Member of the Institute of Professional Willwriters WILLS FROM £130 POWER OF ATTORNEY £130 (PLUS REG. FEE) PROBATE (FIXED FEE) Richard Steel & Partners Family Owned Funeral Directors Alderman House, 12-14 City Road, Winchester (01962) 862333 Richard Steel • Iain Steel • Mark Allery • Personal 24 Hour Service • www.winchesterfunerals.co.uk HOME VISITS IF REQUIRED Tel: 01962 734981 Mob: 07745 406046 anneallen@willmanage.com Institute of Professional Willwriters • MEMBER • FO R U M | LEGAL & FINANCIAL WILLS & LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY PROBATE Four Generations Since 1860 Warner&RichardsonSolicitors Warner & Richardson was founded over 200 years ago and has built a reputation for personal service and high quality advice. With the longest record of service of any Winchester firm we are committed to providing innovative solutions to our clients’ problems and needs based on a strong foundation of local knowledge, experience and pragmatic advice. Wills, Probate and Trusts Our Wills, Probate and Estates department consists of two partners. Our two consultants have close connections to the department and all our practitioners dealing with Wills, Probate, Trusts and Estate advice are members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners ensuring the quality of their work. Please see our website at www.wandr.co.uk for further details Katharine Palmer - kpalmer@wandr.co.uk Robert Goodchild - rgoodchild@wandr.co.uk 29 Jewry Street, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 8RR Tel: 01962 868366 • Fax: 01962 840607 • DX2511 Winchester Email: lawyers@wandr.co.uk Website: www.wandr.co.uk 67 FO R U M | FEATURE JUST TURN IT OFF? WHAT DO YOU THINK? W hen I was young the worst thing you could say to your parents was ‘I’m bored’. Their response was usually along the lines of ‘well go and find something to dogo outside and play’. Going swimming or to the cinema was a treat and, although it really wasn’t that long ago, there were few facilities such as a dry ski slope, go- kart track or ‘Go Ape’ trail locally - or the funds to pay for it if there had been. When we went off for walks or cycle rides I’m sure our parents were content in the knowledge that we would return safely at some point. It’s not so very different now. I meet the word ‘bored’ with similar advice that my parents gave me. Our kids play sports, can be bribed to walk the dog, ride their bikes and go out with their friends. But they have something we didn’t – electronic games and their accompanying gadgetry. Whether on an X-box, laptop, tablet or phone there seem to be more games available than there are ants on the planet. It’s an industry that is worth 1.72 billion per year in the UK alone. The amount of time our young spend playing games on devices various and the potential harm it can do them is well documented. The affects ranging from concerns regarding lack of exercise, an inability to differentiate between game violence and the real thing, (i.e. people don’t come alive again) the stunting of conversational skills and interaction with others, mood swings through to serious addiction- playing for hours often into the night without realizing or acknowledging how much time has passed. But it’s not all bad news, research has shown that game playing can increase dexterity and improve eye-hand co-ordination. All children’s lives and many skills may well be embedded in technology but I personally rue the day a games console arrived at our house – needless to say it wasn’t bought by me. Yet I freely 68 confess there have been times when the ‘electric nanny’ has saved my bacon. On a wet and windy afternoon with a room full of excitable boys, it may be the only resort you have left. But when I stopped and actually looked at just how much time my two were spending on games it was scary. Attempting to apply time limits created so much angst it became a nightmare. Far too much time spent negotiating how long they could play that it became nonsense. The game console had taken us hostage. So I woke up and got brave, (not sure why I say ‘brave’ but it is indicative of the hold game playing has on our lives perhaps). I simply not only turned it off but unplugged it too and now the console is now gathering dust somewhere. I expected the sky to fall in and prepared for battle but strangely they appeared to be almost relieved. My eldest analysed the amount of time ‘wasted’ playing and concluded that it was far too long. My youngest became interested in just how much he would get if he sold all the games. And of course that’s the other issue - the amount of money spent on games over the years! I daren’t calculate it. My eldest now watches the BBC News, plays his guitar AND revises more! While my youngest practices drums and guitar, is less temperamental and keen to go out on dog walks, trains on the exercise bike and wants to take up running. It’s not as though they have sprouted wings and halos, they will still play a sneaky game on their phones if they can, but the situation is happily manageable.The wondrous tool that is the Internet is now utilized as a mind enhancer not a brain number. All in all it’s been a great decision. The kids are far more creative and I think happier actually. As is family life. So just turn it off? What do you think? GG. FO R U M | LEGAL & FINANCIAL “Xero is a fantastic cloud based system which allows you to keep a real handle on your accounts, simply and easily.” Frances Cowan – Alresford Interiors Do great business with Stratus Online and Xero At Stratus Online Accounting, we believe great business starts with good looking numbers. Xero is online accounting software that gives us a live view of your business finances. So no matter what you do or where you do it, with Xero we can help you do great business. Call Mike Warner FCA or Charlotte Bellfield on 01962 832600 to find out more www.stratusonline.co.uk AICB Full range of Accountancy, Auditing, Taxation and Payroll services tailored to suit your needs Small Business Consultancy and Business Start Up Farming and Equine Specialists FREE Half Hour Initial Consultation For friendly, professional, proactive advice please contact: Gibbons Solicitors Limited Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority no. 617854’ Bennett House, The Dean, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9BH Tel: 01962 735544 Email: j.butler@butler-co.co.uk www.butler-co.co.uk 69 FO R U M | ARTS, CRAFTS & MUSIC / LEGAL & FINANCIAL SERVICES ARTS, CRAFTS & MUSIC their youth club, their playground, their place of security and calm as they huddled around the brazier in the centre of the room. Later, in the 1970s and 1980s the Hut played host to pantomimes, flower shows, plays and concerts, and more recently it has launched the careers of Ward Thomas, the up-and-coming Country and Western duo. Today, the Empshott Hut is in need of total renovation to save it from demolition. £15,000 has been raised so far, and with the generous support of Sir James and Lady Scott who are donating the proceeds of this performance to the Renovation Fund, the target is in sight. OPERA AT ROTHERFIELD PARK, EAST TISTED The performance is by kind invitation of the owners of Rotherfield Park, Sir James and Lady Scott, who lived for some time in nearby Empshott village. Sir James said "I remember the Hut as a child where we had such fun as a village putting on plays and other events. It is a historic building and it would be a real shame to lose it. I was delighted to be able to help by offering our garden for this wonderful performance by the hugely talented Popup Opera Group, with all proceeds going to the Empshott Hut Fund". The opera tells the story of Isabella, the Italian girl, who is one of the wisest and most formidable women you will find in opera. Nobody would dare call her a girl, and by the time her story ends, no-one including her captive lover - is willing to stand in her way. Elvira, wife of the powerful Mustafa, thinks he no longer loves her. He is indeed tired of her and sets her up with Lindoro, a young Italian man recently captured on the high seas by Mustafa's pirates. What Mustafa really wants is an Italian girl. Cue a shipwreck and all havoc breaks loose… Tickets are available from www.popupopera.co.uk and cost £20 for adults; £14 for under-18s; or a family ticket for two adults and two children (u18) costs £60 (all plus booking fee). If law is the question A performance of Rossini's L'Italiana in Algeri (The Italian girl in Algiers) will be staged on the lawn at Rotherfield Park, East Tisted, on midsummer's day, 21 June 2015. Rotherfield Park is one of Hampshire's most interesting country houses and the lawns where the performance will take place have been landscaped by the famous garden designer, Kim Wilkie, creating a perfect outdoor auditorium. Come early, bring a picnic, relax and enjoy a very special midsummer musical event. The gardens will be open for picnics from 5.30 pm with the performance starting at 7.30 pm. 70 Whether you are running a business, or acting in a personal capacity, there are times when a good lawyer can give you the kind of support that no-one else can. The performance is to raise funds for the nearby Empshot Hut, a historic 1920s wooden pavilion which has been used as the village hall for nearly 100 years. It is in desperate need of updated facilities to take it into the 21st century. Without the renovation its continued existence is in serious doubt. (See empshotthut.org for more details). You’ve found the answer The Hut has hosted many and varied activities. In August 1939 a group of child evacuees were sent to Empshott as part of Operation Pied Piper which saw 3m people, mostly children, transported from London and other cities to the countryside for safety. The Hut was at the centre of their life for the duration of the war - it was their school, main@shentons.co.uk www.shentons.co.uk Alresford-Forum-Ad.indd 1 01962 844 544 Shentons Solicitors & Mediators Star Lane House | Staple Gardens Winchester | Hampshire | SO23 9AD 11/02/2015 13:59 Services we provide Residential and Commercial Conveyancing We aim to make any property transaction as swift and seamless as possible. We hold the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Standard (“CQS”) Accreditation. We offer a personal service in the following: Sales, Purchase, Leases and Tenancy Agreements, Transfers of Equity, Remortgages, Shared Ownership, Declarations of Trust. FO R U M | LEGAL & FINANCIAL SERVICES Taylor Fordyce Solicitors open a new office in Broad Street, Alresford Wills Wills are important legal documents which allow you to specify how your estate is distributed after death. If you do not have a Will your estate will be distributed on intestacy and those you would like to benefit may not benefit under those rules. Family You will need the best family law advice available when going through a separation, divorce or family breakdown. We can help you make critical choices about your future, your children, business and finance. Our aim is to provide our clients with the knowledge and information to enable them to make valid lasting decisions impacting on their future based on the best available from our highly experienced team of lawyers. Our full range of services: Commercial • Property • Conveyancing • Construction • Planning • Corporate • Civil and Commercial Litigation • Wills and Probate • Trusts • Matrimonial and Family Law • Employment First Floor Offices at: 11 Broad Street and 26 West Street, Alresford www.taylorfordyce.co.uk enquiries@taylorfordyce.co.uk Tel: 01962 735705 1 & 2 CITY BUSINESS CENTRE HYDE STREET WINCHESTER SO23 7TA TEL: 01962 841041 61 CHOBHAM ROAD SUNNINGDALE BERKSHIRE SL5 0DT TEL: 01344 637960 24 UPTON LOVELL WARMINSTER WILTSHIRE BA12 0JW TEL: 01985 851206 71 FO R U M | ARTS, CRAFTS & MUSIC ARTS, CRAFTS & MUSIC THE BEST KEPT SECRET IN HAMPSHIRE GOOD CAUSES CONCERT AT ST JOHN'S CHURCH, ALRESFORD A Good Causes Concert is being held at St John’s Church, Alresford on Sunday 31st May at 7.30pm. Young Carers, the Winchester Night Shelter and the Optimum Health Clinic Foundation who were so supportive to Claire Jones during her recent battle to recover from myalgic encephalomyelitis also known as ME. All the ticket sales revenue will go to support good causes thanks to generous contributions received from our main sponsor, Seaward Properties as well as Richard Steel & Partners and The Country House Company. Steve Culpitt of Seaward Properties commented: “Seaward Properties is delighted to support the Good Causes Concert in Alresford and the local charities benefitting from the evening’s proceeds. It’s a great community event which we are ecstatic about being part of.” The concert stars Claire Jones, Former Royal Harpist and her percussionist husband, Chris Marshall who together form a unique duet known as C2. Concerts are as informative as they are enjoyable as audiences appreciate a majestic harp and an eclectic collection of percussion instruments. Their repertoire is very broad from well known classical works, Chris’s own compositions extending to pieces from River Dance and West Side Story. In addition we are delighted to welcome Juliet Howland who is a locally based singer songwriter and Sophie Pentecost who sings ‘fun vintage jazz with a hint of blues’ accompanied by her own pianist.The line up is completed by the St John’s Choir conducted and accompanied by their Musical Director Richard McVeigh. Tickets costing £20 each including a free drink are now available in person from Six West and St John’s Parish Office or by calling the Theatre Royal Winchester on 01962 840440 via their website: www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk 72 D id you know there is a top-class choir based in Alresford? Who knew that one tiny notice in a local magazine could elicit such a response? After Keith Clark asked “Would anyone like to join a community choir?” he entered St John’s church one Monday evening in 2012 to find more than eighty people waiting. Hampshire Music Service had asked Keith to assemble a choir for a new African-inspired work, ‘Zimbe!’ by Alexander L’Estrange, in Winchester Cathedral. This stunning work was later repeated twice in Alresford due to popular demand. Was it the effect of TV shows about choirs? Or maybe scientific research showing that singing benefits your physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing? Whatever it was, no-one wanted to stop singing, and Alresford Community Choir (ACC) was born. More than 100 members meet at 7.30pm every Monday night in term-time in St John’s church, Alresford. Their enthusiasm has resulted in a large, welcoming family of singers, performing anything from the pops to opera, to a very high standard. The atmosphere is friendly and humorous but hard-working, under inspirational director Keith Clark. (Recently a member was heard to remark after rehearsal: “I almost didn’t come because I was so tired after work. I’m glad I did – I feel energised!”.) There is no audition: whatever your age, if you love singing, at whatever level, you will fit in. The free Vocal Coaching, Sight Singing and Theory classes introduced for members in 2014 are proving a great success and already resulting in improved performance. Since 2012 the choir has progressed from an enthusiastic bunch of ‘newbies’ to an acclaimed ensemble aiming for excellence in singing. Its most recent performance was ‘Ahoy! Sing for the Mary Rose’ with St Swithun’s School choirs. Future concerts include ‘Stars and Stripes’ (July 4th 2015) and ‘The Messiah’ (March 2016). For more information visit www.alresfordchoir.com or come to see and hear the choir at the Watercress Festival. FO R U M | HOME SERVICES Alresford Floors Luxury Vinyl Tiles: Amtico, Spacia Karndean, Polyflor Rubber Flooring Carpet Tiles Solid Wood Engineered Wood Wood Floor Sanding Wood Floor Repair For an appointment to discuss your requirements, please call Fabulous Clean Carpets Approved Amtico Installer & NVQ Certified SUPER-FAST 15 MINUTES DRYING very reasonable prices, and courteous friendly ADVERTISE WITH serviceUS! from people you can trust in your home is cleaning local, near- neighbours for a Eighth page placements: £43of thecarpets fraction normal cost Quarter page placements: ear £75 Stockbridge Forum Reader, Half page placements:Value £141 conscious local residents D love a great deal. Discounts are available on 3, 6 and 12 need your carpets If you cleaned and are looking for an month bookings. For more information award-winning company who will arrive on time, will be email: marketing@forumpublications.co.uk courteous, respectful and above DE ING & HEAT UMB IN L P G The Carpet Care People Our approach is simple: We are proud to run a celebrated professional carpet and upholstery cleaning business, and we insist on providing you with good oldfashioned service and value. Call now and find out why our award-winning service is probably Have the most requested any three of carpet cleaning in the local your carpets cleaned Stockbridge area for justfor £87you total!to do The next thing is call us on 01962 690 005 we’ll welcome your call, answer your questions and take care of everything for you. Upholstery w cleaning and refreshin (at our current offer Fabric Master, our sp and cleaning system and very effective. Fib to their original beaut you’ll see! Deal 2 Have your three piece suite freshened up for just £97! Tel 01962 690 00 Frequently Asked Questions Deal 3 Tel: 01962 690 005 Carpet Price 2 £77 Carpet Price Carpet 3 £97 4 FULL OFFER PRICE LIST 1 £47 Carpet Price 2 £67 De Have any and your freshened £177! Deal 1 Price Full Offer Price List Carpet 1 £57 Carpet Price De Here’s a selection of frequently asked questions especially for you sceptics (y 1. When you say ‘carpet’ what do you mean? We mean average size areas, don’t quibble if the areas are a little larger - it’s all done on fairness really. 2. D Have anythe three Our pricing policy reflects timecarpets it takes to clean working around furnitur That said, we are and for example, happy to move your three piece suite backward your three piece under it and replacing it back into position. What we don’t price into the job a suite for moving large pieces of freshened furniture likeup bookcases, sideboards or wardrobes. Sim to move electricaljust items, in particular flat-screen tvs. Again we apply common £167! situation and inevitable we do end up moving some furniture around, even at Are there any ‘hidden’ extra costs? The prices quoted above are fully-incl prices you will pay. L TD AN all trustworthy -- then you’re invited to take advantage of one of the three extraordinary value, high quality, carpet and upholstery cleaning deals we’re offering new customers this month -- because we want to give you the chance to get to know our service and to find out how impressively new, fresh and bright your carpets will look when cleaned and freshened by The Carpet Care People. Very reasonable Winner prices, and courteous friendly service from people you can trust in your home. De Have any your carp for just £9 Have you suite fresh just £97! Fabulous Clean Carpets, Upholstery and Curtains 3 Great Deals! and reach up to 14,900 readers Here’s why one of the Stockbridges’ most trusted in Alresford and the Itchen Valley carpet cleaning companies 3 Great Deals! SUPER-FAST 15 MINUTES DRYING Tel: 01962 732643 or Mob: 07734 459748 www.alresfordfloors.co.uk Carpet Price 3 £87 Carpet Price 4 £107 Carpet Price 5 £127 Barnes & Liddiard Electrical Contractors Limited All aspects of electrical work undertaken Fully compliant to part ‘P’ of the building regulations Domestic Commercial Industrial Garden Lighting Tel: 01962 733272 73 Price £117 FO R U M | ARTS, CRAFTS & MUSIC / FEATURE ARTS, CRAFTS & MUSIC JUST ONE SIMPLE QUESTION THE CURTIS MUSEUM AND ALLEN GALLERY, ALTON This month the Forum starts a new column celebrating the business community in Alresford and surrounding villages. The Forum values and will always encourage the use and support of all our local businesses. The slogan ‘If you want to keep them use them’, has never been more poignant! By asking one simple question we get a glimpse of the personalities behind the very individual businesses that makes this area unique. This month we ask Sharon who, along with husband Chris, is the owner, manager, chef, buyer and driving force behind the award winning ‘Tiffin’s Tea Room” which is celebrating it’s tenth year this year; T he Curtis Museum opens 10am to 5pm and the Allen 10.30am to 4.30pm for the Allen Gallery, Tuesday to Saturday. Entry is free to both. For more information call: 01420 82802 In the Curtis Museum Saturday May 16th - Made for Walking - 11am -1pm. Join us as we celebrate Alton’s Walking Festival by getting hands on with our collections and exploring shoes from the past. Free drop-in session, donations welcome. Saturday May 23rd - Saturday May 30th - Hampshire Vehicles Find out more about the vehicles we look after across Hampshire with our self-led trail. Free drop-in, donations welcome. My business, we’ve just re branded and extended the tearoom so I was able to incorporate my favourite colour blue into the design and indulge my passion for textiles. I’m an absolute workaholic, so my sons tell me, but it’s about supporting them. My family is very important to me obviously. In the Allen Gallery Saturday May 9th - 70th Anniversary of VE Day - Drop in and investigate some real WWII artifacts first hand.Try our Street Party Challenge – can you pool your rations with your neighbours’ and find enough food for a good knees-up? Free family activity, donations welcome. I must have cats in my life too, I’m a real people person so cats are a funny choice because they don’t really need us but we need them. I have two cats and I love them dearly. Oh and our beach hut, I go there to escape and relax.There’s nothing like sitting down by the sea with fish and chips and maybe a glass of wine! May Half Term Tuesday May 26th - Still Life Photography - 1pm -3pm. Work with a member of the Museum team to explore some of our collections through photography. Pre-book family activity, £5 per accompanied child. I love to Jive too so one day, when I have more time, I shall learn how to dance properly!” With the prospect of the busy summer months coming Sharon won’t have time just yet. Thursday May 28th Trading Places: Interaction and exchange in the Bronze Age Middle East, Helen McGauran - Helen is Senior Curator at the British Museum. This talk presents the results of her research into complex Bronze Age Middle Eastern exchange networks, examining softstone artefacts as markers for those networks. £5 per ticket, available from the Allen Gallery. Please book in advance; we are limited to about 40 and have had to send some disappointed people away recently who wanted tickets at the door. Talk begins at 7.30pm. 74 What are the most important things in her life? “Oh puddings! Making them and eating them, there’s nothing better than a really good desert!” GG. Plant Sale In addition to all these delights,The Friends of the Curtis Museum are holding a Plant Sale in the charming Allen Gallery garden on Saturday May 23, 11am – 4pm. Enquiries to the Curtis Museum on 01420 82802 Curtis Museum, High Street, Alton, Hampshire, GU34 1BA www.hants.gov.uk/museum/curtis Adrian Cobb Plumbing & Heating M: 07774 979 325 T: 01962 735354 No job too small – No call out charge Free quotations available ALL ASPECTS OF PLUMBING & HEATING Reliable local plumber PLACE A MINI-AD IN THE FORUM FOR AS LITTLE AS £22 A MONTH ADVERT SIZE 44mm x 62mm Peter Evans Plumbing, Heating & Bathrooms Plumbing, Heating, Bathrooms, Tiling, Oil-fired boilers installed and serviced Alton Hampshire - 01420 89910 31/1/10 12:38 Page 1 Maid Marian PROFESSIONAL DOMESTIC SERVICES High quality domestic services Guaranteed FO R U M | HOME SERVICES Maid Marian Ad 90 x 135 One less thing to think about. We can help. • Regular cleaning and end • of tenancy cleaning • One off spring cleans • Washing and Ironing • Carpet cleaning • Building maintenance • including painting and • decorating • Shopping • Man with a van telephone: 01962 736713 email: enquiries@maidmariancleaners.co.uk web: www.maidmariancleaners.co.uk Family run company est. 1973 Professional friendly service All aspects of Interior and Exterior Domestic and Commercial Email: paul@dcbestandsons.co.uk H: 02380 448959 M: 07740 797163 www.dcbestandsons.co.uk 75 FO R U M | NEWS & VIEWS / HOME SERVICES NEWS & VIEWS PR AERIALS DIGITAL TV & SATELLITE SPECIALIST ALRESFORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWS Paul Rolfe Free Quotes • Service & Repairs • Full Year Guarantee on parts • OAP Discounts TV installations considered • Freeview achieved where others have failed Membership Renewal Alresford Chamber of Commerce membership renewal was due 1st April 2015. The renewal fee for the next year is £58. You should have received your renewal reminder in the post along with your new window sticker for 2015 and a calendar of chamber events over the coming year (made by Richly Creative) T. 01420 80650 JOYCE & BROS Eggcellent Alresford Easter Egg Hunt The Alresford Easter Egg Hunt was so popular, that more maps (made by Richly Creative) needed to be printed by Winchester City Council during its second week of running. Several of our members were involved in supporting the events, including; Ragamuffins, Sousa Richards, Alresford Interiors, Caracoli, Charters, Eddolls, Jaga Designs, Laurence Oxley Ltd, Mange2deli, The Naked Grape, Oakleaf Stationery & Hellards Estate Agents. Painters & Decorators • Gutter Clearing 01962 735273 07767 711497 The handmade chocolate prize was kindly supplied by Chocolate Craft & the raffle prizes were donated by The Alresford Cricketers, Maddie Attenborough Photography & The Mid Hants Railway. joycebrospainters@btinternet.com M. 07918 913194 CJ The Plumber Colin Joyce • Reliable friendly service • Repairs or installation • Kitchen, bathroom, shower • Outside tap, cold water • Storage cisterns, taps, WC • No call out charge 01962 776545 Domestic plumbing Alresford Show 2015- Saturday 5th September Would you like a greater presence in Alresford and the surrounding area? If yes, then why not book a stall within the Chamber of Commerce tent. We require a £50 deposit to secure your booking & the balance to be paid in full 6 weeks before the Show. If you would like a space, please contact the Chamber Secretary on 07769 722985 or info@alresfordchamber.co.uk for a booking form. Chamber Chat /AGM – Tuesday 12th May Our Chamber Chat/ AGM is being held on Tuesday 12th May at 6pm at Mange2Deli, 44-46 West Street, Alresford. Join us for canapés by Mange2deli with wine tasting with Simon from The Naked Grape. Please RSVP your attendance to Liz Brown – Chamber Secretary by Friday 8th May via info@ alresfordchamber.co.uk Is your business on Facebook or Twitter? The Chamber of Commerce would like to encourage all members to like our Facebook Page or follow us on Twitter. Members can use this benefit by submitting short info plus photo’s to the Chamber Secretary for re-posting & sharing on Facebook or re-tweeting on Twitter. Facebook.com/AlresfordCofC Twitter.com/AlresfordCofC Collated & Written by Liz Brown – Chamber Secretary . MICHAEL J SLY Plumbing and Heating All plumbing and heating works from fixing a leak to installing a full Heating System or Bathroom Suite Plumbing and Heating Complete Heating Systems High Efficiency Boiler and System Upgrades Power Flush and System Treatments Gas Boiler Service Water Softeners Bathroom Installations Complete Bathroom Installation Cloakroom and En-suites Power Showers and Electric Showers Tiling and Flooring Free competitive quotations Tel: 01962 771285 Mobile: 07973 407996 Est. Locally for over 30 years 76 We use a pure water, reach and wash system which allows us to clean even the most difficult windows Barnes & Liddiard Electrical Sales FOR YOUR HOME ELECTRICAL NEEDS FO R U M | HOME SERVICES Basingstoke Window Cleaning Services We also offer the following services: • Windows cleaned inside • Conservatory roofs cleaned • Guttering cleared and cleaned • Soffits and fascias cleaned For a free no obligation quotation, please give us a call on 01256 886241 Simon 07852 117361 Dan 07712 885345 www.BWCS-Online.com LED, Low Energy and Halogen Bulbs We have a comprehensive range available (fitting service can be arranged by request) Plugs, Fuses, Extension Leads Etc... We also offer a restoration and repair service for most fittings 26 The Dean, Alresford, SO24 9AZ Tel: 01962 733272 Barnes & Liddiard Electrical Contractors Limited Your local storage company EASY ONLINE HIRE ALL ENQUIRIES: www.selfstore.co.uk 01962 600220 77 FO R U M | FEATURE /NEWS & VIEWS ALRESFORD & DISTRICT NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ALRESFORD WELCOMES NEW POLICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT OFFICER (PCSO) As part of the new Police Structure PCSO Rhys Griffiths joins the Winchester Rural Neighbourhood Policing Team based at the Fire Station in Pound Hill. Rhys spent 4 ½ yrs as a Community Safety Officer in Winchester and consequently has a good background with low level crime and anti social behavior. Rhys joined Hampshire Constabulary last year and was initially based in Winchester before his recent move to Alresford. We hope his time here in Alresford will be happy and we wish him well. The Chief Constable has recently given PCSO's more powers to use to help them in their new enhanced role. These include new dispersal powers and associated powers in designated areas when authorised by senior officers. There will be more powers available to them in the future and we will keep you updated as these happen. The number of people registering to use Hampshire Alerts increased last month with 1,362 new sign ups and it is hoped that this will continue to grow rapidly as more of Neighbourhood NEWS & VIEWS RUM'S EG: ART & CRAFT WORKSHOPS Collage with Rachel Reynolds Wednesday 13 May: 10.30am - 4.30pm Enjoy creating a series of beautiful paper collages, finishing with a mini block canvas collage artwork. Found objects, papers and collected memorabilia will be the inspiration. Painting, printing, tearing and sticking will all be involved! £58. All materials provided, which includes box canvases, papers & paints. Suitable for all levels. Max. 12 students. Rachel will also be running this workshop on 21 October. Felted Bookcovers with Sarah Waters Sunday 17 May: 10.30am - 4.30pm Make a seamless book cover using wet and needle felting techniques. This workshop is about design, colour mixing and the use of pre-felts to produce your own unique cover. If time allows the students can embellish with stitching. £55. Please ask for a materials list from Rum’s Eg. Suitable for all levels of experience. Max. 12 students. A Book Full of Prints with Tozzy Bridger Wednesday 3rd June: 10.30am - 4.30pm A full day of printmaking to create your own artist book capturing 78 Policing teams start to use it as their primary engagement channel. You can register to become part of this initiative and receive alerts of crime in our area on www.hampshirealert.co.uk. During the last month there have been a number of calls to 101 reporting suspicious behavior. Many of these turned out to be genuine. If you see any actions which you think are suspicious please phone 101 as this is important to the Police in preventing crime and disorder. In Alresford since the middle of March the Police have responded to 3 Anti Social Behaviour incidents, 1 assault which resulted in criminal damage, 1 Public Order offence and two thefts. There were no reported burglaries. Unfortunately Kingsworthy has seen a number of thefts from garages and garden sheds. Bicycles and gardening equipment worth more than £2,500 were stolen between February 23 and April 3. Hampshire Constabulary’s Crime prevention team said garden crime is becoming more common pointing out that many people take a great deal of trouble securing their home and property while at the same time leaving valuable garden tools and cycles in a shed that is either unlocked or not maintained. a range of prints. £57. All materials provided but please bring any images to work from and an apron or old shirt. Suitable for all levels of experience. Max 12 students. Life Drawing with Jane Price Sunday 7 June: 10am - 1pm An opportunity to improve your artistic skills in this one-off workshop, through drawing the human form in a relaxed and encouraging environment. £38. Please bring an A2 cartridge sketch pad, charcoal, putty rubber & drawing pencils. Some materials supplied.Suitable for all levels of experience. Why not book Jane’s short course (below) in September? (Short Course) Life Drawing with Jane Price Sundays 6, 13 & 20 September: 10am - 1pm See materials list above. £99 for all 3 sessions. (or £38 per session). Attending all 3 sessions is highly recommended. Max 8 students. Please take note of any materials you may need to bring with you and arrive 15 minutes before the start of your workshop. Tea, coffee and biscuits are complimentary. Light lunches available in Rum's Café - 10% discount for workshop students. Early booking is advised. Please pay at time of booking. A refund cannot be given unless we can fill your space. In the unlikely event that a workshop you have booked has to be cancelled by us, an alternative workshop or date will be offered.Where this is not possible or not acceptable to you, a full refund will be paid. Rum’s Eg, 27 Bell Street, Romsey SO51 8GY. Tel: 01794 511220 www.hampshireartandcraft.org info@hampshireartandcraft.org Reliable and experienced painting and decorating service at very competitive rates Free quotations • Fully insured • References available Wallpaper Specialist D E C O R AT I N G I N H A M P S H I R E S I N C E 1 9 8 0 FO R U M | HOME SERVICES JJ DECORATING SERVICES Tel: James - 07919 487821 james.jimjamie@googlemail.com City and Guilds Qualified COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL • DOMESTIC Providing a comprehensive electrical installation service • Home automation • Lighting schemes • Electric gates • Emergency lighting • Electrical installations • Home entertainment • Fire alarms • Burglar alarms T: 01962 735397 w: butlerandking.co.uk e:info@butlerandking.co.uk Unit G, Prospect Commercial Park, 4 Prospect Road, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9QF WHITE WORXS LTD ALL ASPECTS OF BUILDING AND CARPENTRY UNDERTAKEN Loft conversions Extensions/Renovations Kitchens - design, supply & installation Bathrooms - complete refurbishments Flooring - laminates to hardwood Repairs & maintenance KEITH WHITE Tel: 07714 105967 / 01962 733554 Email: keith@whiteworxsltd.co.uk Blinds & Awnings Ltd We offer a full measuring, manufacturing and installation service for all types of high quality Blinds - Awnings - Shutters Full 5 year guarantee Other services include: Awning and canopy restoration (including re-covering) Blind servicing and repair work For a free, no obligation quote in your own home or office: Tel: 01962 736836 or 07711 007079 email:enquiries@drblinds.co.uk 79 Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication We specialise in full bathroom design & specification using exclusive European brands and bespoke pieces. We also sell stunning ranges of tiles, towels and accessories. Call us to book a consultation or visit our showroom soon. NO. 7 CHESIL STREET, WINCHESTER, SO23 0HU Open Monday – Friday 9am to 5pm & Saturday 10am to 5pm T: 01962 850237 E: info@soapbathrooms.co.uk W: www.soapbathrooms.co.uk