Issue 5

Issue 5

In this Issue...

A host of leisure pursuit oppor t unities The All Woman Show Win VIP weekend tickets to Wickham Festival

NET WORKING IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNIT Y . . .

Includes a 4-course Dinner

Fri 30th May £35

Fri 20th June £35 Fri 4th July £35

Fri 1st August £39.95

Fri 12th September £39.95

WELCOME TO

Networking in your local community...

MAGAZINE

W

NETWORKING IN YOUR COMMUNITY ... e hope everyone hasLOCAL had a good Easter.

Congratulations to Chris Fay for providing the winning photo for our front page. He will receive a family ticket to Marwell as a prize.

We will be running another front cover competition this month with the chance to win VIP weekend tickets for Wickham Festival. Send in your pictures to contactus@ loopmagazine.net

The next Loop Magazine will be delivered in July

as a variety of local interest stories and advertisers.

Please send in your press releases and community news to contactus@loopmagazine.net

In this issue we have a All Woman Show feature as well

Continuing thanks to the community for their regular contributions to the magazine.

Send in your stories to us, to help make this the publication of the community.

Let us know what is important to you, and what you would like to see featured in our magazine.

Send in your details to contactus@loopmagazine.net Take advantage of our great advertising rates.

Call

01489

881885

or

email

contactus@

loopmagazine.net Pete Ralls, Editor w w w w

Automatic Operators

THE LOOP

Visit www.loopmagazine.net www.facebook.com/theloopmagazine1 www.twitter.com@loopmagazine1 Call 01489 881885 Produced by Events and Special Occasions Ltd.

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Editor Pete Ralls pete@loopmagazine.net

k

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ra ga y m Andover 01264 337711 Fix Winchester 01962 715200

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New Doors o.u c . r Repairs oo d Locks ge

Sales Director Sarah Hopley sarah@loopmagazine.net

Administration Genevieve Hopley contactus@loopmagazine.net Production Blake Hopley blake@loopmagazine.net

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The LOOP | 3

Vocademy: a unique singing school Have you got a young person in your life who loves to sing?

of singing.

All Vocademy teachers are CRB checked,

Vocademy is a unique singing school that helps children shine and become pitch perfect – but also helps them build selfesteem and confidence.

Vocademy is offering FREE taster sessions for children to help introduce young

Portsmouth. With a BA Hons in Music from Chichester University where she specialised

fully trained and ready to welcome your

in both performance practice and music

children.

education, Bubsie has been a professional

Southampton singer-songwriter

singing teacher since graduating as a

Charley Macaulay runs the Southampton

Master of Music Performance in September

Vocademy.

2009. Bubsie also works as a session singer,

Charley, who won the Under-18 Live and

as well as performing with her own band and as half of an acoustic duo.

people to the joys of singing in a fun,

Unsigned national competition in 2009,

informal way - perfect if the little one in

has gone to record her first album, perform

your life is shy or nervous.

at some of Britain’s biggest festivals and

specific groups. To book your free taster

support stars from Will Young to Anastacia

session call 07582467032, visitwww.

– before she has even turned 20.

vocademy.co.uk, like Vocademy on

There’s no doh ray me at Vocademy.

Students learn techniques to the songs of their favourite boy and girl bands and

She will run classes at the The Bar

Courses run for 10 weeks and in age

Facebook at

artists who are topping the iTunes charts.

Quarter, Leisure World, in West Quay Road,

www.facebook.

They end the term with fun gigs in front of

Southampton.

com/vocademy.

family and friends and every lesson is as

The Portsmouth school is run by Bubsie

singing or follow

much about fun and confidence building

Yates at the Old Blacksmith Studios, Unit

on Twitter

as it is about teaching the technical aspects

8, Admiral Park, Airport Service Road, in

vocademysinging

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED “Want to earn money and keep t?”

The Loop Magazine has an opportunity Distributors Wanted. We are looking for reliable, trustworthy distributors in the following areas Locks Heath and surrounding areas Hedge End and West End Fareham You will need to enjoy walking, be of a reasonable tness and able to deliver over one weekend every other month.

You must be aged 13+ (no upper age limit)

Please telephone 01489 881 885 Email: contactus@loopmagazine.net With your name, age (if under 18) address and home telephone number

4 | The LOOP

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One step away from singing competition Grand Final!

Regional final where she wowed the

He made £100 in just 20 minutes!!! He

judges to secure herself a place in the Area

also sang for charity at Christmas raising

finals. You can hear Amy’s own version of

£80 for breast cancer. A boy with a very

Miley Cyrus’ Wrecking Ball by following

big heart !! S Jay who sung live on Voice

the link https://www.youtube.com/

FM and has been asked to return and

watch?v=ef0qI0FwRBU Amy is currently

be interviewed in view to inspire other

working on an original song to sing at the

children. He is currently showing of his

Area Final on May the 10th In Fernham

vocal ability at some local Open mic

Hall.

nights in the area which he is thoroughly

Amy’s second success last month was

enjoying. S Jay has a very versatile voice,

to discover that she had also impressed

singing many genre of songs. He loves the

the Mayflower Creative Team as she was

big powerful songs where he can show off

also offered a place in the cast of “five of

his vocal ability with the wow factor.

the Best”. The show will be performed on After impressing the judges at the Regional Finals, Amy Marsden and S Jay are now just one good performance away from singing at the TeenStar Singing Competition 2014 Grand Final to be performed at one of the greatest live music venues in the world.

TeenStar is an exciting national talent competition which searches for the UK’s best teen and pre-teen singers/ singersongwriters. Amy Marsden and S Jay have so far beaten over 7500 contestants and sung themselves into the last 500.

TeenStar is brought to you by Future Music, the company behind the discovery of artists such as Jacob Banks, Warner Music’s Birdy, Columbia Record’s Lucy Spraggan, and Union J’s Jaymi Hensley and Jahmene Douglas, both of which are now signed to Sony Music, Local Youngster Amy Marsden enjoyed triple success with her passion of singing and Musical Theatre. Amy’s love of musical theatre and singing meant she was forced to make a hard choice of performing at the Teenstar Competition or attending a call back audition for a chance of a place in the cast of the Mayflower Theatres Summer Youth Project “Five of the Best”. Luckily for Amy, Teenstar were very accommodating and allowed her to move to the Brighton

For more information go to the website

7th 8th 9th August. This is the second year

www.teenstarcompetition.co.uk, or

that Amy has been involved a production

better still come down and support

by the Mayflower as she was involved in

your local talent performing! You can

“Bugsy Malone” The Summer Youth Project

purchase tickets from the website www.

in 2013 which was a massive success.

teenstarcompetition.co.uk, as well as on

To complete Amy Marsden’s hat trick, she was also invited as one of just 14

the door subject to availability or from S jay and Amy

Vocademy Singing Students throughout the country to take part on a very exciting project which has been kept top secret for the last couple of months. In April she was whisked off to Brighton to film and record a charity. The song they have recorded is still being kept under wraps until launch date at the end of the summer. Amy’s confidence has come on leaps and bounds since becoming a Vocademy Singing Student last year. They have been so supportive to Amy during the Teenstar competition we can’t thank enough.

Last years Teenstar Area Finalist S Jay , the only boy in his age group¸ narrowly missed out on a place in by just one wildcard! He returns this year with passion and plans to sing his way right through to the Grand Finals. S Jay has been busy since the Regional Finals with a Sports Relief event that took place at the Hedge End Sainsbury’s and Marks and Spencers stores. S Jay brought the stores to a stand still with his jaw dropping performance.

contactus@loopmagazine.net

The LOOP | 5

Part-time stylists wanted Mr Menz are now looking for experienced part-time stylists.

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‘Know your blood pressure’ Stroke Awareness Day this year was on 5 April so, just to be different, Hamble Valley Rotary have, with the kind permission of Hedge End Retail Park, organised to hold a ‘Know your Blood Pressure’ event at the entrance to Sainsbury’s and Marks & Spencer in Hedge End on Saturday 31 May.

and play area for the little ones

It may be a strange thing to do on your way to do a food shop

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Mr Menz, 66 Barnes Lane, Sarisbury Green and see why everyone is talking about

available - Ed) but stroke affects people of all ages and fitness levels and a blood pressure check is always a good idea. It will cost you nothing and prevention is always better than cure. One third of strokes occur in people under the age of 65.If you are interested in volunteering or would like to mention a local need please get in touch through their website www.hamblevalleyrotary.co.uk

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6 | The LOOP

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The LOOP | 7

www.loopmagazine.net 8 | The LOOP

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contactus@l oopmagazine.net The LOOP | 11

Ukulele Orchestra and ‘The Voice’ Finalist for Wickham Festival Dhol Foundation who performed to one

instruments, the ukulele. They have just

of the biggest global TV audiences of all

completed a sell-out UK Tour and have

time when providing the drumming and

performed in major concert venues across

percussion for Kate Bush’s hit ‘Running Up

the globe.

That Hill’ at the closing ceremony of the London 2012 Olympics.

The Dhol Foundation are led by world-

A finalist from TV’s ‘The Voice’ and a band of musicians who performed at the London 2012 Olympics closing ceremony are among the latest artists confirmed for this year’s Wickham Festival being held on the outskirts of the attractive Hampshire village over the weekend of August 13th17th.

Sally Barker was one of the three finalists in this year’s ‘The Voice’ programme on TV. Her singing so impressed her mentor Sir

The Wickham Festival features four days of top-quality music on three stages plus a variety of other entertainment including

renowned Dhol drummer and percussionist

puppet theatre, storytelling, a solar-

Johnny Kalsi. They have performed for the

powered cinema, digital funfair, childrens

Queen and are favourites at the WOMAD

entertainers and much more. There’s a

World Music Festivals with their dynamic

crafts fayre, exotic foods fayre, real ales

drumming, whirling arms and thunderous

festival and late night Festival Club. The

beats.

5000 capacity Festival is widely regarded as

Headlining the opening night of the

one of the safest and friendliest festivals in

Wickham Festival will be The Ukulele

the UK having not had a single crime of any

Orchestra of Great Britain. Recently seen

kind last year.

on TV’s Ant & Dec Show where they

Day and weekend tickets are now

performed with Robbie Williams, the

onsale via the Festival website www.

band mix madcap humour with masterful

wickhamfestival.co.uk or by phone from

musicianship on that much-maligned of

the Box Office on 023 8071 1818.

Tom Jones that she was his personal choice to be one of the final three contestants.

Since finishing joint 2nd on the 5th April programme she has released a version of Olly Murs’ song ‘Dear Darlin’ which has topped the iTunes chart. She will be appearing at Wickham with her band The Poozies on Saturday 16th August, supporting Steve Earle & The Dukes from North America.

Also just confirmed for Wickham and appearing on the Friday night will be The

12 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net

An Alternative way to shop At the Chesapeake Mill you will find a huge variety of traditional and vintage lifestyle accessories, a wonderful range of unique and hard to find products with timeless appeal for the home, garden and the special people in your life.

The Mill provides an alternative way to shop.

You can browse a selection of the best interior ideas and gifts to suit every taste and budget.

Your visit is sure to prove surprising and inspirational and the best retail therapy you will ever have.

Take a break and treat yourself in the Mill’s fabulous tea rooms.

There you will always find light snacks, cooked food and the Mill’s famous high teas.

Ropelet - let the rope free Ropelets are bright, funky rope bracelets, for those of you looking for something a little different.

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contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 13

A younger generation of Freemasons

The Loop meets with the Provincial Grand Master of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Freemasons I meet Michael Wilks in the masonic lodge

administrative divisions – in the

chamber of the Fareham Masonic Hall,

Country. Each Province has a number

He describes how during the Second

a grand looking room bedecked with

of Masonic Halls and Lodges. Michael

World War, instead of Freemasons

banners and certificates that showcase

Wilks is the Provincial Grand Master

leaving the organisation for fear of

the lodge’s history. Michael is very

(PGM) of Hampshire and Isle of Wight,

being persecuted in the event of Nazi

candid, choosing to shake off the popular

one of the largest Provinces with 250

occupation, they became secretive about

image of secrecy with which Freemasonry

Lodges including 4 University Scheme

their membership to protect themselves

is often viewed. He regularly tweets

Lodges (USL) situated in Portsmouth,

and the organisation. He stresses that

to Masons and non-Masons alike as a

Southampton, Basingstoke and

objectives have now changed and it is

way to demonstrate the openness and

Winchester.

important to be open and transparent so that the community understands the role

transparency of the organisation.

The Province of Hampshire and Isle of

of a Freemason.

“Some Masons don’t like to use Facebook

Wight is divided into six areas, each with

or Twitter but I believe this is an ideal

their own Assistant Provincial Grand

When I ask about the role of Freemasonry

medium for us to reach out to the public

Master. He encourages all of them to use

today he tells me that it is based around

and demonstrate that as Freemasons

social media as a tool to reach out to the

improving moral character and fibre,

we should be open and proud about our

community, promote social and charity

something that benefits not only the

membership and all that we do.”

events and dispel many of the myths with

individual, but his family, friends and

There are 47 Masonic Provinces –

which Freemasonry is often tarred.

society as a whole. “A good Freemason

14 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net

will demonstrate honesty, integrity and

says that this is assured because the

camaraderie at dinner.”

fair dealing in life and actions in his day

friendship engendered amongst young

Coming up to 40 years in the craft in

to day life. There is a lot of selfishness

men joining the Craft together will also

2015: the Loop talks to Michael Wilks, the

and dishonesty in the world today, and

encourage them to invite other friends to

Provincial Grand Master of Hampshire

Freemasonry teaches us to be unselfish.

become Freemasons.

and IOW

Michael tells me that he originally

Facebook:

became a Freemason to follow in the

http://www.facebook.com/

Michael describes how interactions

footsteps of his father, whom he had the

HampshireMasons

between younger men and more

utmost respect for. “When my wife and

Web Site:

experienced Freemasons can be

I moved to Hampshire and settled here

www.hampshirefreemasonry.com

highly beneficial to both. He says it

I made enquiries and saw how much

Youtube:

encourages men to work together and

good could be achieved and I wanted to

https://www.youtube.com/

learn from each other. There are 57

be part of it. I joined a lodge in Fareham

watch?v=P8nlQuvohI8

University Scheme Lodges throughout

in 1975 and I have a great fondness for

Twitter:

the country as part of a scheme which

the ceremony and thought provoking

https://twitter.com/HantsMason

was established in 2005 with the aim of

ritual – whether taking part or sitting

bringing younger men into Freemasonry.

on the side-lines. I especially enjoy the

Freemasonry is a force for good and exists to benefit society as a whole.”

In his role as Provincial Grand Master he is able to authorise a dispensation to men below the age of 21, thus allowing even younger individuals of ages 18 and upwards to become Freemasons.

Candidates joing University Scheme Lodges are often initiated in groups, which he claims generates a special bond between candidates as they join together.

I ask Michael why he thinks the USL’s appeal to students. He says that university students – like many young men who join the Craft – enjoy aspects of learning, formality and discipline within the lodge room, and afterwards the camaraderie, fellowship and friendship built at the festive board – a fun and enjoyable dinner after the meeting has ceased in the lodge room. The Provincial Grand Master mentions a survey conducted, which speculated on whether to reduce the formalities in the lodge room. Interestingly the survey found that the younger Lodge members enjoyed and appreciated the formality as a contrast to the fun of dinner afterwards.

As to the future of USLs: Michael

contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 15

We are really glad that we advertised with Loop Magazine.

Flowers by Joanne

We had lots of enquiries from our ad and the discount voucher we included got a great reception from readers.

We will definitely be advertising again.

Joanne is a freelance florist/floral designer at Hollygrove Farm The Loop Magazine has been very active and productive in promoting our new branch in Fareham.

shop in Upper Northam Drive, Hedge End. She offers:

They are an outstanding advertising portal and we have definitely seen the benefits.

• Bouquets, Aqua pack water Bouquets, Arrangements, Basket

• Local, National and International Deliveries.

Arrangements,Gifts, Balloons, Gift Baskets, Plants and Pots.

• Funeral Tributes, 2d Shapes, 3d Designs and Bespoke Wedding

www.ranchosteakhousefareham.co.uk

Flowers.Glass Hire, Royal Mail Post box and Sweetcart Hire,

www.ranchosteakhouse.co.uk

• Event Decoration and Corporate Contracts.

Trained at Eastleigh College Joanne has gained qualifications in both Traditional and Contemporary floral designs. She has a Level 2 C&G National Certificate in Floral Design, a Level 2 National Certificate in Floristry, an Ncfe Level 2 Certificate in Contemporary Floral design, an Ncfe Level 2 Certificate in Extended Techniques in Contemporary Design and a level 3

Sales Executive

National Certificate in Floristry.

A college competition winner for two years running, Joanne has

Part time or Full time

a real passion for arranging flowers and creating clients’ visions.

The Loop Magazine has an opportunity for a conscientious Sales Executive.

at Hollygrove Farm shop and the exciting launch of Flowers by

The beginning of May sees Joanne celebrating her first birthday Joanne 2 in Chandlers Ford, in association with Wessex Funeral Services.

You need to be self-motivated, hardworking o and offer high quality customer care.

We will pay a generous salary and commission scheme to the successful executive

Send your C.V to Sarah Hopley at contactus@loopmagazine.net

20% DISCOUNT VOUCHER Strictly for owers by Joanne.

Please call : 02380471006 Expires 30th May 2014.

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16 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net

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SUMMER IS HERE

Summer is here at last What a pleasing sight A trip to the seaside An angler’s line is heavy, now he has a bite

I just thought I’d email you to let you know that I’ve had a fantastic response to my adverts in the first couple of issues of ‘The Loop’!

Children’s laughter all around Sitting on the beach A little boy making castles in the sand That golden ball in the sky, totally out of reach

Financially, I’ve had well over 1000% return on my

A swimming costume wrapped in a towel Unfolding a brightly coloured deckchair Sunglasses protecting her eyes Rubbing in sun lotion as her skin is so fair

Yours, Jim Gildea

investment which in itself is excellent, but I’d go as far as to say ‘The Loop’ magazine can take a lot of the credit for the most successful start of the year I’ve ever had!

Many thanks to all at ‘The Loop’ magazine. I and all at Rubbish Clearance and Waste Removal are looking forward to the next edition coming to print!

Summer is a welcome sight Never want it to end The seaside is the place to be Enjoy an ice cream with a friend

BY LINDA HANNEY

“Is there anyone to take care of us?”

Lizzy (above) and Cokey (below) are sadly victims of cruelty and neglect.

They have been rescued and are now in care where they are responding well to love and attention.

Both are between 8-10 years old , have sweet characters and would appreciate a future with owners who will give them the love and security they rightly deserve.

If you have the patience for them, considering their unhappy past, in a safe area with a garden for them once they are settled, and are interested in adopting these two cats contact 023 8043 5855.

Facebook.com /Loopmagazine1

Twitter.com @Loopmagazine1

Welcome to the LOOP

Our magazine boasts sophistication and is modern and upbeat, featuring a wealth of local news and advertising, as well as leisure pursuit opportunities in your area.

To Advertise in the LOOP Magazine Contact us on: Telephone 01489 881 885 Email: contactus@loopmagazine.net www.loopmagazine.net We have a loyal team of experienced distributors and take pride in delivering through 39,000 letterboxes, deli to homes and businesses.

Please mention

When responding to these adverts MAGAZINE NETWORKING IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY ...

18 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net

WWW.CULTUREHAMPSHIRE.COM

For things to do and places to visit in Hampshire this website is perfect for you.

A not for profit community interest company, Culture Hampshire aims to build and grow awareness of the abundance of innovative and inspirational Cultural experiences available for people living in and visiting Hampshire.

And if you’re looking to commission a local artist to paint you a portrait, an entertainer for your children’s party, or a wedding photographer to capture your big day, all the local contacts you need are in the Culture People directory.

As a local creative such as an artist, graphic designer, web developer, musician or jewellery maker you can create a profile within the Culture People pages to demonstrate your work and highlight your availability for commissions.

Culture Hampshire is a local directory website of Cultural and Creative People, Places and Events in Hampshire.

If you’re a member of the public you can search in Culture Places for great recommendations on where to visit, find great entertainment or learn a new skill.

And if you want to find out what’s going on culturally, want get involved in a creative workshop or look for ways to entertain the family, our Get Culture events calendar is your one stop shop for all of the above in Hampshire. hello@culturehampshire.com

Local History

The Strawberry Coast

Dan Boylan describes South Hampshire’s strawberry growing heritage For over 100 years, the lands between

but was well suited to the shallow rooted

Fareham, Botley and Warsash were well

strawberry plants. The soils were ideal

first began via the turnpikes and in the

known across England as the ‘strawberry

for strawberries, well-drained and soon

late 1860s, when the railways arrived

coast’.

warmed in early spring sunshine.

arrangements were made to transport the

Strawberry growing along the Hamble

Between May and late July the region

The booming strawberry industry

fruit across the country on trains fondly named ‘The strawberry specials’.

supplied Covent Garden, the Royal Palaces

blossomed from the 1866 Enclosure Acts

and the top London Hotels with the

which permitted common land to be

At the height of the strawberry growing

earliest, juiciest, tastiest strawberries in

divided into dozens of small plots. The

era, it wasn’t difficult to obtain credit from

the land. Before the days of refrigeration,

new plot owners needed a quick cash

local financiers to purchase land and set

glasshouses and foreign imports, when

crop that required little investment or

up as a grower: “I’ll pay you back in the

foodstuff was governed by the weather

expertise. It was the combination of the

picking.” was the customary term (still

and seasons, strawberries (and most other

gravely soils added to the mild climate due

heard in these parts). A family with four

fruits) were a seasonal crop. Then the early

to its closeness to the Solent and Hamble

to six acres could expect some degree of

strawberries arrived and no summer picnic

which was spared the spring frosts and

success and a good income even in their

or garden party was complete without

created ideal conditions for early cropping

first years of operation. Once established

delicious strawberries and the British

strawberries. The land was inexpensive

they would build a modest cottage beside

public loved them.

and strawberry cultivation didn’t require

the homemade shed which they had used

expensive equipment or any great

to store their tools and baskets. When

introduced as a commercial crop into

expertise. The harvest was a highly labour

the harvest began, inexpensive, itinerant,

the area by the Carpenter-Gamier family

intensive process and provided work for

seasonal labour arrived for the “bedding-

of Rookesbury Park, Wickham. In the

both young and old. Such was the near

down” and the picking. It was usually

mid 1800’s they persuaded the tenant

guaranteed output of these cropping fields

provided by the gypsy families who often

smallholders at Hundred Acres to begin

that many agricultural workers left their

arrived, year after year, in their horse-

cultivation of the strawberry. The thin,

employer and with little financial backing

drawn caravans in early summer (generally

stony soils around the Hamble was

or experience acquired land to grow

after Wickham Fair Day, May 21st).

unsuitable for the plough and agriculture

strawberries.

Strawberries are said to have been

20 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net

With the picking well under way,

came the transportation to the railway.

strawberries picked on Ravenscroft Farm in

foreign producers who had longer

Many smallholders had a small, two

Bursledon each year was sent to a grateful

growing seasons and lower wage bills

wheeled donkey cart, others had large,

H.M Queen Mother.

and from the new supermarkets who

horse drawn, four wheeled flatbeds.

The Roads to Swanwick Station with its

demanded uniform, perfectly shaped

Much arranging and rearranging of

extended platform were often gridlocked

fruits. Imported berries began to arrive

transportation was required, with many

with long lines of carts waiting to load

earlier in the year and cost half the price.

favours called in, to deliver the thousands

baskets of strawberries into the specially

Many local growers ceased trading,

of baskets to the stations. Even in those

adapted railway carriages. Boys were

and swathes of huge strawberry fields

far back days, it was a proud boast of

paid 1d (2p) an hour to carefully stack

were transformed into modern housing

the growers that the fresh fruit could be

the baskets onto the carriage shelves.

developments. There are still subtle

picked, sorted, transported to the railway,

100,000 baskets of strawberries could be

reminders of the local strawberry industry,

and entrained onwards to Covent Garden

transported to London every day. During

there are streets named Strawberry Field

and served in the dining rooms of London,

the strawberry harvest, May to mid July,

& Strawberry Hill; The Berry Theatre and

in a matter of hours. Picking would begin

it was one of the busiest stations in the

The Talisman & Sir Joseph Paxton pubs are

at first light, (4.30am) and the fruit would

country. The fruit was transported in

named after species of strawberry plant.

be served in London hotels for afternoon

baskets called ‘Chips’, which were cheap

tea twelve hours later.

and produced in huge quantities, (cheap

required only a modest investment,

as chips). They were non returnable

inexpensive equipment, seasonal workers

on Sundays) were handed four three-

baskets made from thin strips of wood

at harvest-time and the means to transport

pound baskets to fill. They would pick over

woven into a rectangular shape and

the fruit to the railways. The return?

20,000 berries every day, rain or shine.

stapled together. They were made by local

Sufficient income to keep a family well

At the height of the strawberry coast’s

women at the Swanwick Basket Company.

housed and fed through the year. There

productivity, there were 1,500 acres of

A jam factory was built on Locks Heath

are many who would like to see the return

strawberry fields in this area. It was a

Road in the 1880’s, to turn inferior end-of-

of the English strawberry, an early summer

highly successful self funded and free

season fruit into jam. The three cottages

fruit at its very best.

standing industry which created numerous

next door became the public house which

Fresh, juicy, succulent strawberries are

supporting companies and concerns,

was named the ‘Joseph Paxton’. a variety of

on sale now, not from the other side of the

hundreds of jobs for all members of the

strawberry popular at that time.

world but right here, on your doorstep. Go

Every day pickers (an hour off for Church

and pick up a punnet, or two!

community and year after year, brought wealth and prosperity to the region.

Traditionally, the first basket of

This was a superb ‘mini’ industry. It

In the late 1960s the South’s strawberry fields began a struggle to survive against

contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 21

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Science Museum announces UK tour of The Energy Show

English National Opera and the V&A, The Energy Show boasts a creative team who have collectively worked nationally and internationally on more than 500 shows, including productions on the West End and Broadway. Their awards include a Tony Award, a Village Voice OBIE and a Theatregoers’ Choice Award. Full cast and crew details can be found under Notes to Editors.

Science Museum Live - The Energy Show; credit Benjamin Ealovega, Science Museum Anthony Richards, Manager of Learning Programmes at the Science Museum, says “We are delighted to announce the return of The Energy Show. Audiences in 2013 agreed that its mixture of eye-popping demonstrations and imaginative characters both excited and educated young viewers. The Science Museum is pleased to be able to expand its reach to new audiences.”

Martin Lamb, Director, says “The Energy Show is a dynamic and

Recognised by reviewers in 2013 as a ‘fantastic and brilliant must-see’, audiences will again have the opportunity to join futuristic science students Annabella and Phil as they race against time to prove their knowledge of energy through a series of live experiments.

Featuring a virtual assistant named i-nstein and a steampunk workshop full of gadgets and chemicals, Annabella and Phil use liquid nitrogen, hydrogen rockets and electricity to create a dangerously exciting experience.

The Energy Show is a unique theatrical experience whose awardwinning creative talent will build on the success of its original run to deliver a distinctive and universally appealing performance.

Directed and co-written by Martin Lamb, who has worked with

Fareham Cancer Research to host Coffee Morning

fresh way for young people to engage with science, weaving together the best elements of a traditional live science show with the storytelling features of family theatre. Audiences will enjoy an engaging experience, no matter their background in science.”

The Energy Show is suitable for all ages from 7+ years and is a must-see for Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 students. The trailer is available on the Science Museum’s You Tube channel.

For a full list of tour dates visit http://www.sciencemuseum.org. uk/visitmuseum/Plan_your_visit/theatre_shows/the_energy_ show/energy_show_tour.aspx To book tickets please call 0870 870 4868 or visit www. sciencemuseum.org.uk/energyshow For school bookings please call 02079424777.

Fareham Writers

Have you ever fancied yourself as a writer? Ever thought ‘I could

Fareham Cancer Research (CRUK) local Committee

have written the item better than that?’ or, ‘I’ve got this great

are holding a coffee morning on Wednesday 21 May in the

idea for a book............................!’

Methodist Church Hall on King’s Road.

The fundraiser, which will run from 10.30 am to 12 noon, will feature stalls containing cakes, books and bric-a-brac.

Here’s your chance to break into the world of fiction, scriptwriting, creative writing, sci-fi and put those latent literary talents into productivity mode. Fareham Writers is open to

Tickets cost just £1 and include coffee and biscuits. They are available either in advance (from Rosemary): 01329 311012 or on the door.

Loop staff member to take on fire walk challenge Production whizz-kid Blake Hopley will take part in a sponsored charity fire walk on 19 July at the Horse and Jockey in Curbridge.

Unite and Ignite, the organisation hosting the event, hope to raise £40,000 for a state of the art playroom for young children and babies with cancer.

To sponsor Blake email contactus@loopmagazine.net

experienced writers and

Save up to 70% on Inkjet Cartridges

novices, young and old, bard or enthusiastic wannabee.

We meet locally every month in the afternoon to read our work and provide critique and support for others. Look at our

And many more!

FREE Delivery www.inkking.co.uk 01489 877818

website www.farehamwriters. co.uk to see what we do.

You could be the next J.K. Rowling!

contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 23

Celebrate a super salad leaf at the Watercress Festival Visit Alresford, the UK’s

ambition is to make people go ‘yum’. Cooking is about feeding

‘Capital of Watercress’

people and making them happy.”

on Sunday 18 May as the town plays host to the

The principal sponsor of the Festival, the Watercress Alliance (made up of the UK’s leading watercress farmers Alresford Salads,

annual Watercress Festival Vitacress Salads and The Watercress Company) will have experts on hand to talk about the history, health benefits and the growing and with a variety of family attractions and mouthwatering watercress treats.

The day kicks off at 10am with live music and a raft

harvesting of this ancient crop.

For the kids there’s the chance to investigate the 40 or more insect species which live in or by the watercress beds by pond dipping in the critter pool on the Alliance stand, while the more industrious

of artisanal food and craft stalls selling their wares. At 10.30am

amongst them can learn the old art of bunching watercress using

the first watercress of the British season arrives, freshly cut from a

traditional farm trollies.

nearby watercress farm and brought into Alresford on a traditional

The Watercress Festival is free to attend with the only charge being

horse and cart, followed by a procession of morris dancers,

the car park in Alresford or at the Park and Ride in Ropley where

musicians and school children, all in carnival mood as they parade

visitors can start their day in old fashioned style by hopping on the

through the town.

Watercress Line steam train to the Festival..

The fun-filled day will include the World Watercress Eating Championships, food stalls selling local artisanal produce, live

The Watercress Festival marks the start of National Watercress Week which runs from 18 May – 24 May 2014 and celebrates all things

music, street and children’s entertainment, and rides on the famous great about the little leaf with a peppery bite, so what better way to spend your Sunday than with your family and friends in the ‘capital’ Watercress Line steam train.

Cookery demonstrations by local award winning chefs, Andy

of watercress.

MacKenzie of Lainston House, James Durrant, Chef Proprietor of

For more info visit www.watercress.co.uk/festival or for directions

the Plough Inn Longparish and Robert Quehan, Head Chef of the

and parking information, visit www.watercressfestival.org

Holiday Inn in Winchester, will take place. Lucas says: “My only

Let the kids go

OTT IOW on the

24 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net

Live music nights at the Horse & Jockey

At the head of Curbridge Creek lies the Horse and Jockey – a real winner of a pub that offers you a seat right at the water’s edge.

A popular retreat for ramblers exploring the nearby wildlife sanctuary, the pub promises home-made food and lush liquid refreshment. There are quiz nights every Tuesday, as well as regular live music evenings.

May: Sun 4 - Blues @ Curbridge Creek (Jam Night), Fri 9 - The Lovely Giraffes (rock), Sat 17 - Blackwater Roll (blues), Thur 22 - Morris Dancing & Music, Fri 23 - The Geckos, Fri 30 - This Way Up (blues).

June: Sun 1 - Blues @ Curbridge Creek, Sat 7 - Little Black Dress, Sat 14 - 60s Soul, Ska & Motown (all on vinyl), Fri 21 The Undecided (rock), Fri 27 - Doctor Blu (blues).

Remember to check the high tide time on their website: Tel: 01489 796654 www.horseandjockeycurbridge.co.uk

LOCAL groups

Solent Fuchsia Club meet on the first Tuesday of each month in the United Reform Church, starting at 7.30pm. For further details call: 01329 282186.

Warsash

meet on the last Thursday of each month in the Victory Hall, starting at 2pm. New members welcome.

For more information phone Mary Ford on 01489 584923

The Horse & Jockey

CURBRIDGE

• Free Wi-Fi • Live Music • Specials Boards • All Ingredients Fresh & Locally Sourced Where Possible • Gluten Free Options Available Including Beer • Quiz Night Every Tuesday • Themed Nights • Plenty of Parking • Small Boats, Canoes & Kayaks Can Moor at High Tide

For Bookings 01489 796654

Botley Road, Curbridge SO30 2HB www.fullers.co.uk horseandjockeybotley@gmail.com

Sarisbury Choral Society is a mixed

choir of about 35 members. They meet on Thursdays in the Community Centre, Sarisbury Green from 7.50 to 9.20 pm.

New members are welcome. Visit sarisburychoralsociety.weebly.com

Warsash Horticultural Society meet on the last Wednesday of each month in the Victory Hall, starting at 7.30pm.

For more information phone Suzanne Holleyoak on 01489 574498.

Locks Heath U3A meetings are held at St. John’s Church Hall, Locks Heath Park Road

on the last Friday of the month from 2-4 pm. Members can park in the church grounds and nearby roads. There is a speaker each month and tea and biscuits will be available at the

end of the meeting. There are numerous Interest Groups where you can learn together with fellow members in a friendly environment.

Sarisbury Green meet on the third Thursday of the month at 1.45pm at the Community Centre. Visitors and new members welcome.

Burridge & Park Gate

Hedge End meet on the fourth Tuesday of each month in the Hedge End 2000 Centre, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm (doors open at 6.45pm).

Locks Heath

meet on the first Tuesday of the month at St Margaret Mary church Hall, Park Gate at 7.15pm. Visitors and new members welcome.

meet on the third Wednesday of each month in the Memorial Hall on Locks Heath Park Road, starting at 7pm.

Whiteley Wags meet on the second Thursday of each month at 7.30pm at Whiteley Primary School.

Next meeting Thursday 13th February.

Titchfield meet on the 4th

Monday of the month starting at 7.30 pm and finishing about 9.30 pm in the Parish Rooms, Titchfield. Visitors are always very welcome.

contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 25

FINANCIAL & LEGAL SERVICES N e w Ta x Ye a r – n e w o p p o r t u n i t i e s

No one likes preparing their tax return but there are a number of very good reasons why tax payers should plan to prepare and submit their tax returns as soon as possible.

expense of Christmas and New Year.

PAYE coding Notices Some employees do not appreciate that their PAYE coding notice is prepared from figures gleaned by HM Revenue & Customs from submissions from themselves and employers in earlier tax years.

This can result in employees suffering wage deductions based on income that they are no longer receiving. The reverse is that employees are not having the correct tax deducted from their wages and so are unknowingly

The Enquiry Window The most important reason is that HM Revenue & Customs have twelve creating tax liabilities for the future. months from the date of submission of the tax return to open an enquiry Early submission of the tax return will result in a more accurate PAYE coding into it. notice being used against their earnings.

Prompt submission of the tax return means that the tax return can be Lost documents considered closed earlier.

It is a fact of life that the any approaching deadline will result in the This is especially important if the tax return contains estimated or disappearance of vital information. contentious entries. Early submission provides the tax payer with time to deal with any challenges made to the figures and importantly pay the It is no different with tax returns. The threat of the 31 January deadline correct amount of tax by the deadline and avoid late payment penalties. means that the essential P60 or P11D document’s that were tidied away before Christmas will not be able to be found.

Tax repayments If you have overpaid income tax the tax repayment claim will be Also, financial institutions no longer automatically issue interest tax actioned quickly. Currently, tax returns are trickling into HM Revenue & certificates. These often have to be requested and do take time to prepare.

Customs and therefore they have less to deal with and claims get dealt Banks will charge for requesting duplicates, if the originals are lost with promptly.

Prompt attention to tax return documents does not guarantee that documents will never get lost but while you are looking for them you can Payments on account If you are unfortunate enough to have to make tax payments on relax in the knowledge that the tax return has been submitted and the account, preparing the tax return earlier means that that the payments potential £1,300 penalty avoided. on account can be based on actual figures as opposed to the previous Your Accountant and tax adviser tax years tax liability.

If you use a professional adviser they will be better placed to provide you If income levels have gone down the payment on account due by 31 with a decent level of service and take time to discuss the tax return with July, can sometimes be reduced. you.

Budgeting

Summer Holidays

Preparing the tax return promptly enables taxpayers to budget on how they are going to pay the tax liability. For instance, submitting a tax return in May means that there are eight months to prepare for the payment due by 31 January.

If you are able to prepare and submit the tax return before August you will be able to enjoy your Summer holiday knowing that there is one less thing

Especially important as the tax deadline comes immediately after the

to worry about upon your return.

If you need help or advice on preparing and submitting your tax return Moore McCusker can be contacted on moore@mooretax.co.uk or by calling 01489 247047.

Are you paying too much?

To pay the right amount of tax

To receive the correct tax advice At the right level of professional fee Contact

Specialists in all areas of taxation

www.mooretax.co.uk advice@mooretax.co.uk

Tel: 01489 247047 Please mention

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26 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net

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- Year End Accounts Paul Shepherd VAT - Payroll - Book-Keeping elan.bookkeeping@aol.co.uk Tel: 01489 589140 competitive rates Mobile: 07849874436

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contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 27

SPACE TIMES World’s first commercial spaceline

After successful tests on their new liquid

“NewtonTwo” respectively.

manufacturers and operators to buy a

rocket engines in January Virgin Galactic,

“We are proud of the great progress our

the world’s first commercial spaceline, has

propulsion team has made in reaching these

The new rocket engines were designed

moved one step closer to flying tourists into

milestones,” said Virgin Galactic CEO George

and assembled in-house by Virgin Galactic

space.

Whitesides. “Combined with parallel progress

engineers and technicians, and mark the

made by the company in advanced tank

first firings of engines designed and built by

Virgin Galactic hot-fired both a 3,500 lbf

and avionics technology, we are now well

the privately-funded company, owned by

thrust rocket engine and a 47,500 lbf thrust

on our way to providing customers with the

Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group and Abu

rocket engine, called the “NewtonOne” and

lowest cost opportunity for small satellite

Dhabi’s aabar Investments PJS.

As part of a rapid development program,

dedicated ride to space.”

UKSEDS 2014 Conference Dr Rochelle Velho (UKSBA executive)

team in space. The aim of this session was

investigators interested in space careers and

The 2014 UKSEDs conference was a 2

to inform the student body about the UK

how that would link into ELIPS in the future.

day event that provided a plethora of

Space Environments Association (UKSEA);

It is evident that in the years to come, the

opportunities for young investigators

a multi-disciplinary space community. The

zeroG environment will continue to irk our

with a passion for aerospace research and

main objectives of the UKSEA include crowd

curiosity and provide many solutions to

development.

sourcing of solutions, fostering collaborative

terrestrial problems. Conferences such as

UK space environments projects and access to

UKSEDs 2014 provide an invaluable forum for

space careers through to a live lecture by Maj.

facilities for both professionals and students.

current and future problem-solvers to share

Tim Peake (ESA astronaut).

These goals will enable more teams to submit

ideas about UK Space R&D. Thereby ensuring

Andrew Winnard (UKSBA executive) and I

successful ELIPS proposals and facilitate UK

that the UK will continue to play an important

co-led a session about the multi-disciplinary

ELIPS participation. The second half of our

role in international space science.

The sessions ranged from advice about

session focused on career advice for young

28 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net

SPACE BIOMEDICINE IN THE UK • Created for educational, research and career opportunities for students and professionals of the UK interested in space life and space medical sciences.

• Promotes UK involvement in human space flight as a means of enhancing and strengthening the academic, medical, industrial and economic foundations of the UK.

UKSBA Aims

The purpose of the association is to advance the research and conduct of space life and medical sciences and related sciences in the UK with the aim of: 1. Stimulating investigation and study.

2. Disseminating pertinent knowledge and information.

3. Establishing and maintaining cooperation between the physiological, medical and other science disciplines concerned with space biomedicine.

To join the UK Space Biomedicine Association visit www.uksba.org

• Represents organisations in the UK that are involved in the field of space biomedicine or related activities.

• Over 20 academic, industrial and space establishments.

• Broad scope of activities e.g. medicine, physiology, psychology, pharmacy.

• Committed to improving communication, coordination and collaboration in this and related fields, across the UK. • With the support of the UK Space Agency and its core institutions, King’s College London and UCL, UKSBC will develop a UK space biomedicine research strategy to support the growth of the UK Space Industry and improvements in terrestrial healthcare.

Courtesy of Wyle

Courtesy of ESA

Courtesy of MEDES

The field of space biomedicine is but one element of the growing domain of Space Environments research and development in the UK.

Courtesy of ES

Courtesy of Wyle

GeoFind contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 29 Consultancy

Sea Stories

A lifetime shared with the Queen Mary

David Main recounts a life of interest and experience with the ship My interest in ships started at a very early

and on 25 July 1943 she carried 16,683

age as I was brought up in Portsmouth

troops and crew on board.

during the Second World War.

It took almost 25 years for the two ships,

red and black illuminated funnels.

On completion of seven years training as an engineer I considered that a great

the Queen Mary and the Queen Elizabeth

deal of the training focused on the

to watch many Royal Navy ships entering

to start the weekly service to New York

theoretical side and I considered that

or leaving the dockyard. We also went onto

which was planned in 1924 due to the

I needed to gain experience on the

the beach at Southsea where we could see

delay caused by the 2nd World War.

practical side by operating real machinery.

I was taken down to the harbour entrance

When this weekly service started the two

the Isle of Wight across the strip of water

I decided to join the Merchant Navy and

between the mainland and the Island

ships became a familiar sight at lunchtime

applied to what was considered the most

known as the Solent. It was here that my

on a Thursday (as sailing time from

prestigious company at that time, Cunard.

association with the Queen Mary began.

Southampton was always at midday).

I was interviewed and accepted and joined

I started my engineering career as an

the Company in 1959 as junior engineer.

ship that passed through the Solent from

engine fitter apprentice in Portsmouth

I acted as standby engineer on three

Southampton on its way to New York, they

Dockyard in 1952 for 5 years and on

separate ships - the Mauretania, Saxonia

told me how the wash from the ship would

completion of that I transferred to the

and Caronia - but did not sail on any as all

come ashore a short while after the ship

Central Electricity Authority as a Technical

the crew turned up by sailing time.

had passed .

Staff Trainee at the new Marchwood

My parents told me of this very large

I was then allocated a ship and that ship

Power Station near Southampton

was the one that had interested me for

sighting of this great ship: it was the first

for another two years, hoping on

a great part of my life, the Queen Mary.

sailing from Southampton to New York

completion to become an Operational

I was put on the 12 to 4 watch which is

after the 2nd World War and she was taking

Shift Engineer in that Power Station.

midday to 4pm and midnight to 4am for

American soldiers back home. The ship at

The Control Room for this Power Station

the whole voyage from Southampton to

that time was still in her grey wartime paint

overlooked Southampton Water and every

New York and return.

and known as the “Grey Ghost�.

Monday evening we could see the Queen

It was in 1946 when I had my first

It was during the War that she could carry a whole Brigade of troops on one crossing

The machinery spaces of the ship

Mary and the Queen Elizabeth arriving

consisted of two main engine rooms, the

back from New York with their distinctive

forward and after engine rooms , each

30 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net

engine room contained two main steam

both the forward and after engine

a marvellous reception by all the staff

turbine drive engines driving two propeller

rooms operating the two main drive

(crew) on the ship. I noticed that the

shafts and propellers. The forward engine

engines and adjusting the rotational

ship was running tours to various parts

room driving the two outboard propellers

speed of the propeller shaft to the

of the ship, but the engine room was

and the after engine room driving the two

instructions received from the Bridge.

a self guided tour, and most visitors

inboard propellers, each propeller shaft

I was then promoted to take control of

to that part did not understand what

being 200 feet in length and the driving

number 5 main boiler room which had six

they were looking at. I offered my

power in each shaft being 40,000 horse

large water tube boilers each with seven

services to give tours and lectures in

power giving a total power of 160,000hp.

oil burners and producing steam for the

the engine room on how the engines

My first job was to work in the Propeller

main engines in the after engine room.

worked and I was given the opportunity

Shaft Tunnel, the absolute end of the ship

The temperature in this boiler room was

in 1998 for two months as a trial run.

and about 30 feet below the water line. My

almost unbearable.

At the end of that period I was wined and

job was to look after 40 Plumber Blocks

After three years with Cunard I left and

dined with all the department Managers

(Main Bearings) for the propeller shafts,

returned to Marchwood Power Station

who suggested I moved out to California

I also had the fire protection system for

as an Operational Shift Engineer, the

and become permanent staff, but I

the ship, refrigeration compressors and

experience gained from my time with

offered to go back each year for either

the main sewage storage tank and pumps

Cunard was very valuable. I never thought

two or three months which was accepted.

to discharge the sewage into the sea,

I would ever see the Queen Mary again

My last tour of duty on the ship was in

a very unpleasant part of the job often

when I saw her sail down Southampton

2008, by which time I had been awarded

being sprayed with sewage when pumps

Water in October 1967 having been sold

The “International Commodore of the Year

blocked up. It was very noisy as the four 18

to the City of Long Beach, California. To my

2008” by the Historic Steam Ship Society of

foot diameter propellers rotating at 180

surprise our son phoned me in 1996 and

America, California Chapter.

rpm the other side of the 1.25 inch ship

said he had heard a tour company was

side and as the ship pitched the propellers

taking a group to the Queen Mary on the

and marvellous experiences with this

would become closer to the surface of the

27th May 1996 for the 60th anniversary of

marvellous ship. I am the same age as the

sea causing severe cavitation.

the Queen Mary’s Maiden Voyage.

ship and we are both still afloat together.

My next jobs were operating in

That concludes a lifetime of interest

My wife and I decided to go and had

contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 31

Short Story

Never-ending journey

By Dan Boylan of Fareham Writers

The ferry was almost full when it swung away from Gun Wharf Quay towards mid channel. The young woman shook

they say.”

He grunted and lowered his hand grip to the floor.

and jumble cluttering the aisle. She

“What an awful evening.” She said as

attempt to lighten the atmosphere.

“Naw, she’s in Beverly, the baby hospital, she’s just ‘ad another nipper.”

He sniffed and withdrew a packet of Players from his raincoat pocket.

“Baby hospital in Wickham? I’ve never heard of that before. My sister’s just

she arranged her shoulder-bag, brolly and briefcase.

. . .”

“Going on leave?” she asked, in an

spotted an empty seat, shuffled into it and eased herself down beside a sailor.

Turktown, er Gosport and get the bus “Does she live in Wickham?”

the rain from her brolly and picked her way through the clutter of bags, cases

to visit the missus, I’ll get the train in

“Oh, you can’t smoke on the ferry. It

had a baby, she had to go to the Q.A.”

must be a long time since you made the “Known worse.” he replied, with a hint

crossing.”

deliver. It’s different for navy wives.” He

gloom.

He grunted again and put the “It’s going to rain like this all week,

32 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net

“Navy wives have to go to Wickham to

cigarettes away. “Going to Wickham

said, with an edge of impatience.

“There were some Navy wives on the same ward as my sister at...........”

wording ‘H.M SHIPS’, instead of the name of an actual vessel. She watched as he reached into his tunic and pulled

“Wickham, Navy wives goes to the

out a pocket watch, flipped the cover

baby ward at Wickham. All of ‘em.” He

open and checked the time. She hadn’t

persisted, though his tolerance levels

ever seen anyone carrying such an old

were now clearly wearing thin.

fashioned timepiece and it mystified her even more.

“Who was that?” She asked the crewman.

“Who?” “The sailor who’s just got off, who is

She detected his annoyance and backed off but felt the need to keep

side the mooring.

he?”

A closer inspection revealed his dirty

a conversation flowing. “Are you

finger nails, nicotine stained fingers

assigned to a ship or are you waiting

and now she recalled, his Players

for a draft. My Dad was in the Navy and

cigarettes were untipped. He was

is always talking about ‘waiting for a

pallid, slight and his facial features

An elderly, silver haired man dressed

draft’; it’s a bit of a family joke.” And

were drawn and tense. She sniffed

in tweed stepped forward and quietly

she gave a little chuckle.

and caught the unmistakeable whiff

said, “That sailor is the spirit of Able

of engine oil, carbolic soap and a

Seaman Norman ‘Nobby’ Clarke, Miss.

lingering mustiness. He was a man of

He was killed with several others

sometimes it’s safer at sea than stuck in

mystery, an enigma, a contradiction.

in 1942 when a homeward bound

Portsmouth dockyard.”

She tried to make sense of it; to grasp

Heinkel dropped two bombs on the

just what it was that was so different

west bound ferry. He was going to

about him, why he was so unusual. He

Wickham to visit his wife who had just

quipped,”especially on a Saturday

was spooky, wraithlike and impersonal

given birth. He travels the Gosport

night at chucking out time!”

and his unearthly aura and appearance

Ferry, back and forth every day, though

troubled her.

few passengers ever see him. You are

“No joke waiting for a draft,

”You can say that again, Jack” she

He tutted and tossed his head back,

“What sailor?” he inquired, half turning around.

obviously one of the few who possess

clearly not appreciating her little joke.

Then the engines slowed and the

She chuckled again and put her hand

ferry swung towards the ramp and

engage with the spirit world. He will

onto his in a friendly gesture but was

other passengers began to gather

have been grateful for your company,

shocked at its unnatural coldness and

their belongings. Some were already

brief though it may have been. Do

immediately withdrew it.

standing and shuffling towards the

come again soon, we’d love to see you,

exits. She rose too and stooped to

we’re always here - all fifteen of us!”

collect her bags and brolly, anxious to

And he touched the tip of his cap, gave

the window at the glowing harbour

leave him behind. She stepped into the

her a sweet smile, turned, hovered a

lights and realised that he had no

aisle, shuffled forwards with the throng

second or two, then glided effortlessly

reflection, that only her own image

of passengers and the sailor come from

forward and disappeared through the

was captured in the darkened window

behind and gently pushed passed her.

steel bulkhead.

It was then that she glanced through

the necessary psychic powers to

pane. She reeled at the discovery.

She looked at him again and he

“Sorry missy, I’m in a bit of hurry, I’ve

appeared just as authentic as the other

gotta a train to catch.” And he quickly

passengers. But she looked closer

moved forward and disappeared into

and noticed that his uniform was not

the mêlée of homebound commuters.

made from the light, modern material

She gasped, turned white and grabbed a seat for support.

“Oh, may the good Lord preserve us!” she exclaimed.

but from a coarsely woven wool, his

A crewman put his hand forward

blue raincoat was an ancient, faded

to help her as the ferry pitched and

gabardine and his cap band bore the

swayed on the swell as it came along

“Are you talking to me love?” asked the bewildered crewman.

contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 33

All in all a great dining experience

Heather Clarke reviews Rancho’s new restaurant in Fareham the large dining area to the back. The décor too is reminiscent of the Southern states, with faux cow hide on the walls and a cosy, earthy feel. The tables in the main dining area are closely packed, but there are some set to the sides should you require a little more privacy.

Despite how busy it was the staff were friendly and attentive, and kept those with a wait for their food updated on its progress. The menu itself is, as you would expect, largely cuts of beef and steak, with ribs, seafood and a few other options for Ranchos Steak House in Fareham is, in their

variety. If you’re dining with a veggie or

own words, the little sister of the already

are one yourself then this may not be the

established branches in Portsmouth,

best place for you as options are limited to

Poole, Bournemouth and Southampton.

one. If you are carnivorous, however, then

The latest edition to the family opened on 10 January and has so far duplicated the successes of its older siblings and will no doubt soon have a similar great reputation.

I visited Ranchos on a Tuesday evening, which I assumed would be fairly quiet, perhaps not giving me the real feel of the restaurant. As it transpired I need not have worried as there was barely a spare table in sight, and there was plenty of atmosphere to enjoy with a few large parties and many

you’ll be in heaven. If in doubt about any of the cuts or dishes on the menu, the staff are more than happy to explain and make recommendations. There is also a dessert board, a choice of starters and a good wine list – a great accompaniment of red meat.

We had the prawn cocktail for starters, which as a twist on the classic dish had a whiskey and garlic sauce. If I’m honest, had it been a lunch time this would have been enough of a meal by itself. The portions

were massive, and other starters included a half rack of ribs and empanadas – all of which will satisfy a modest appetite alone.

A quick look around confirmed that the main would be on a similar scale – and we weren’t disappointed when they arrived.

The steak and ribs were huge, with the steak resting on the ribs like a meaty plate, and the gambas that came as part of the surf and turf were sizeable too. Most importantly it was all delicious. You have a choice of sides with most dishes, including three different types of chips. The food was obviously fresh, well sourced and very tasty. I couldn’t manage dessert so opted for a coffee, of

other smaller tables all full.

which there was a great selection

For such a new venue it was

including Irish, but my other half

great to see so many people

had the chocolate cake that he

on a typically quiet night for

said was divine.

restaurant dining.

The entrance to the restaurant

I have no doubt that the Fareham branch of Ranchos

is much like you would see in

will become just as popular as

American Steakhouses with a

its other eateries. The food is

bar front and smaller tables that

delicious, the staff friendly and the

are ideal for a quick lunch, and

space works really well – all in all a

a door to the side concealing

great dining experience.

34 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net

THE PAV I L I O N AT SEA C I T Y M US EU M 30 M AY TO 31 A UG UST S E ACITYMU S E U M.CO .U K

Kingfisher feeding by Kármán Balázs and Novák László

IMAG E S F R O M 15 YE AR S O F W IL D L IFE P H OTO G R AP H E R O F TH E YE AR