The Romsey & Wellow Gazette - December 2021

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December

Edition of your local Romsey & Wellow Gazette Community Magazine!

Dear Residents, It has been an unusual two years, that is for sure and here we are in December 2021. I have to admit that I have had some difficulty ‘gearing up’ to the festive season, but I think I have finally decided to let my hair down and enjoy some time with family and friends, which is after all what this holiday period is all about for many. Good company, good food, time to laugh and appreciate each other.

Our loyal local trades and services certainly appreciate all your calls and bookings. Each and every one of them wants to wish you a Happy Holiday Season and thank you for all your support over this particularly challenging time.

Without you, some of these companies would have struggled much more, so a big appreciation from all of them!

In the new year we are looking to add more local clubs and societies again, so please let us know if you would like some promotion. We are here to help you. If you have a business that would benefit from our thousands of magazines which go out every month, please give me a call or send an email. I would love to help you.

Stephen, myself, Julie, Mel, Tracey, Steph, Chris and Jannike wish you a really special Christmas.

May you eat, drink and be merry.

Very Best Wishes,

Debbie & Stephen with their son Hayden

Contact Debbie: debbie@modernmagazines.co.uk or Tracey: 07500 592584 tracey@modernmagazines.co.uk

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In this issue

Romsey & District Railway Modellers Society 2022 Hampshire Art Studio offers art workshops for groups Pub Quiz Interview: Keanu Reeves Councillor’s Column Springing up in Test Valley!

Kevin McCloud Column Monthly Walk Alan Titchmarsh Column Puzzle Answers Boosting energy efficiency Recipe: Spiced Biscuits

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Our magazines are printed in a factory that is FSC & ISO 14001 certified. Sustainable and environmentally friendly printing is part of our ethos. Using vegetable-based inks and recycling nearly 100% of our paper waste means you can be confident that this publication is not harming the planet.

Modern Magazines Ltd reserves the right to accept or reject any article or material supplied for publication or to edit material prior to publication. The opinions expressed or advice given in this publication are the views of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of the publisher.

Every care is taken when compiling this magazine, however we cannot accept liability for misprints or mistakes. Dates and information quoted are believed correct at the time of going to press, but are subject to change and no responsibility can be taken for loss, damage or omission of material due to error. It is the client’s responsibility to ensure they have permission to use any artwork which they supply to us or request for us to reproduce. Unless prior consent of the publisher is given, no part of this publication is to be reproduced.

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The Romsey & District Railway Modellers Society 2022 The Romsey & District Railway Modellers Society are making a come back in 2022 after having to cancel this years annual exhibition because of Covid. On Saturday 5th March 2022 and Sunday 6th March 2022 The Romsey & District Railway Modellers Society are pleased to be able to return to hold their annual exhibition in the Crosfield Hall Romsey.

The aim of the exhibition is to show a cross section of the hobby. This year the local Mountbatten School will be bringing their layout operated by the pupils. There will be 11+ layouts with two trade stands to cater for all tastes. The scales/gauges will be N, H09, 009, H0, 00 and 0 - with something for all modellers.

Refreshments will be available all weekend and there is free parking on Sunday . Disabled access available.

Admission Adult £5 Child £3 Family Ticket 2 + 2 £12

There's even a rumour that the local Tourist Office may be sponsoring steam specials! Apart from the rhythmic beat of the trip-hammer in the forge, it's a quiet Saturday afternoon in Bahnhofstrasse. Let's assume that Bayern Munich are playing a televised match and/or the skiing conditions are perfect in the nearby Alps.

Ryedown Lane & Winterbourne Road is a 4mm scale layout portraying part of a rural, narrow gauge light railway as it may have appeared in the 1930s. Although freelance it draws inspiration from a number of real light railways that existed at that time. Locomotives and rolling stock are built from kits while the buildings are scratch built and mostly based on real structures from locations in the south of England.

Zweibrucken is a model of the suburban 'S-Bahn' of the famous Bavarian (never German) city. An imaginary narrow gauge line was added to provide extra interest (and to use the second bridge You may see 'S-Bahn' trains in at least two different liveries (including the very distinctive Airport Line version created when Munich's new airport was built many kilometres from the city centre). You may also spot a class 218 diesel hydraulic (Great Western fans please note) operating a push-pull set of double Decker coaches on a Regional Express.

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Hampshire Art Studio offers art workshops for groups From company team building and problem solving to improving mental health and well-being. Hampshire Art Studio offers a range of exciting art in its fully equipped studio in idyllic surroundings beside the River Dever in the Test Valley, Hampshire. They cater for both groups and individuals.

Using their experienced tutors they offer art workshops that are designed to help businesses build their employees' team spirit and morale. The classes encourage thinking out of the box, getting rid of the word ‘can't', building confidence and helping with problem solving. Well-versed in looking after groups of all kinds, Hampshire Art Studio believes art has an important role to play in people's wellbeing, too - focussing on creativity allows people to manage stress, explore solutions and feel good about themselves. A proven fact is that art has a real role to play in unleashing creative thinking, problem-solving and building teams - all making a significant impact on employee morale and the way companies perform. Hampshire Art Studio would love to chat to businesses and other organisations about how to increase team spirit and therefore productivity. It suggests a Christmas morale boost may be the way to kick start these art workshops - a different kind of office Christmas Party - ‘the Art feast', a morning of creativity and then an afternoon feast - what better way to celebrate the festive season!

Organisations can also make use of something unique - visual facilitation - a way of illustrating words with pictures.

Visual images are recalled by individuals 95% more than words are. So meetings can be presented by using both! While you're presenting, a talented illustrator will draw on a board beside you the significant points of what's being said so the audience can ‘listen in pictures', too really livening up the presentation in a unique and colourful way and ensuring that more people retain the information and understand it. No more ‘death by Powerpoint'! Creativity is also good for the soul and has many healing properties, not least changing a person's thinking and view of the world and themselves. Getting involved with art can

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have powerful and lasting effects on health, helping to protect against issues such as anxiety and lack of confidence, a common experience especially for people returning to the workplace after lockdown, working from home and being furloughed. And of course it's sociable and fun! Add to this the beautiful surroundings the studio is set in overlooking the River Dever and you have a winning formula. Says Clare Dryden, co-founder and owner of Hampshire Art Studio; ‘Using art to improve a team's creative thinking is more important than ever as companies come together once again in the same building. And it's also crucial that we look after our mental health and find ways to help businesses with this - art can play a really important part. We're very proud of what we can offer all groups here at the studio or in the workplace'.

"We've used Riverside for a number of meetings and team-building events. Its tranquillity and stunning surroundings completely facilitate the group you are working with to explore new thinking and fresh ideas without the need to spend time creating that environment." Sainsbury's "A huge thank you for your wonderful hospitality, we all very much enjoyed the yoga and motivational art classes and the food was outstanding. We have spoken about coming back for another offsite in the near future." First State Investments (UK) Limited "Thanks again for organising the Instant Pause workshop last week - the art was terrific". Twinings For more information about Hampshire Art Studio visit https://hampshireart.studio

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1. What is the opening line to 'Let it Snow'?

2. Which Christmas carol was originally written in Latin as 'Adeste Fideles'?

3. What type of pudding do the carolers sing about in 'We Wish You a Merry Christmas'?

4. Which carol includes the lyrics, 'Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis'?

5. How many types of birds are mentioned in the Twelve Day of Christmas song?

6. In the words of the famous carol 'Hark the Herald Angels Sing', to whom is glory proclaimed?

7. Which Christmas carol is commonly known by the title 'Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire'?

8. Which famous Xmas song sends 'tidings of comfort and joy'?

9. Which Christmas carol was composed by Rector Phillip Brooks following a pilgrimage to the Holy Land where he had felt mesmerized by the town in which Jesus was born?

11. Which famous Christmas carol was written as a poem by C. F. Alexander, the same inspirational poet credited with having composed the hymn 'All Things Bright and Beautiful'?

12. The famous song 'White Christmas' originally featured in which 1942 musical film starring

Bing Crosby, Fred Astair and Virginia Dale?

13. Which Christmas carol includes the lyrics, 'They looked up and saw a star, Shining in the east beyond them far, And to the earth it gave great light, And so it continued both day and night'?

14. Christina Rossetti wrote a poem that was to become the basis of which famous Christmas Carol?

15. What is the final line of the famous 'Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer' song?

16. Which carol was originally composed by James Pierpoint in 1857 for Thanksgiving?

17. In the words of 'Away in a Manger', what was the Lord Jesus asleep on?

18. Which Christmas carol begins with the lyrics, 'Sleigh bells ring are you listening'?

19. What type of tree is mentioned in the Twelve Days of Christmas song?

20. Which Christmas carol includes the lyrics, 'From now on, our troubles will be out of sight'?

10. Which song repeats the catchy lyrics, 'pa rum pum pum pum'?

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Find the answers on Page 34

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Reimagining the Matrix Another excellent – if familiar – adventure on the way for Keanu Reeves.

Keanu Reeves doesn’t subscribe to cancel culture, and besides, there aren’t too many sins to account for! In fact, if skirting back over past behaviour is a determination of popularity in the years to come, then the 56-year-old Beirutborn star has stored up enough credits to last well beyond retirement.

From queuing in the rain outside his own party because he didn’t want to make a fuss to bouncers, to redistributing his movie fees around support staff and special effects workers, through to acts of random kindness to strangers, such as giving up his seat on the New York subway.

Add in charitable donations thought to exceed $100m, and the star clearly goes well beyond what is expected of him. “I don’t do things for any other reason than they feel right,” he says. “And that makes me no different to 99% of people out there – good people who give up their time

or their energy for something that doesn’t directly benefit them.”

While his behaviour onset is no less community spirited, it’s accurate to say the actor’s feelgood vibes haven’t directly translated into big hits in the past couple of years – his most recent movie being the semi-successful reprisal of Ted ‘Theodore’ Logan in the Bill & Ted franchise last year, and John Wick in 2019.

“I think I’ve really taken a new view to it all in the past decade,” he says. “I don’t subscribe to the fanfare and the glamour.

You’ve seen the way I live – I like basic things, I love motorbikes; I’d rather be out on a gravelly road getting mud on my boots than sat in the back of a limo. That’s just then person I am now.

“Of course, I respect in others a desire to go after the bright lights, but I’d rather have a conscience that is more about people and worthwhile experiences, so I guess that leads me to do a lot of the things that I do. I’m not

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doing it for any other reason than I want to.”

For all the Speed, 47 Ronin and The Day the Earth Stood Still actor’s protestations, he might well be advised to prepare for a bit more press intrusion very soon with an expected triumphant return to form as the character of cybercriminal-turned apparent superhero Neo in the fourth instalment of The Matrix series of films.

“I am absolutely happy - I always feel I have to be totally committed to doing a role justice, particularly on a sequel, as you run the risk of sullying everything that went before it unless you get it right.”

There seems little danger of that…

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Councillor’s Column This year has certainly been a better one than 2020, even though Covid hasn’t left our community - and probably never will. The good news though is that we are learning to live with it now that the successful vaccination programme has broken that link between infections, hospital admissions and deaths. At the time of writing, 11 people have died from Coronavirus in Test Valley since the beginning of March compared to 83 in the first two months of the year when the vaccine programme was in its infancy. I’m really proud of the work Test Valley has done this year providing the venues for vaccine clinics at The Lights Theatre & Chantry Centre in Andover and at Crosfield Hall in Romsey. It’s absolutely crucial that those eligible take up their booster jab to reduce the risk yet further – and my ongoing thanks go to the doctors, nurses, surgery staff and volunteers who are delivering this lifesaving service.

As we look to the future, it’s also important we don’t forget the events of the pandemic and those who sadly lost their lives. To mark this moment in time, I was pleased to help the Mayor plant a tree in the Garden of Remembrance at St Mary’s Church in Andover recently. It’s one of a number of trees that have been planted across the Borough - with Test Valley making a tree available to every Parish - as a symbol of hope in their communities. This followed a poignant service in church attended by the families of those who lost loved ones.

May they take strength from the new life people up and down the Borough have planted into the ground.

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At Full Council last month, we considered our Medium Term Financial Strategy. A good opportunity to reflect on the £800k worth of reserves we’ve used in the last 18-months to help us through the cost of Covid. Meaning we could keep tax increases to £2.50 on an average Band D this year (broadly in line with inflation) rather than the assumed £5. Obviously, reserves can only be used once though, so it’s important we have a strong financial framework to deliver a balanced budget in this coming year.

Talking of Budgets, I was pleased to see the Chancellor commit to another reduction in business rates for the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors.

A great boost for the High Street as we move into 2022. On that note and at this time of year, I do hope you’ll join me in purchasing at least some of your Christmas shopping from the many small businesses that operate right across Test Valley. Small Business Saturday is on Saturday the 4th of December - and although it’s important we support our local enterprises all year round - at this time of year especially, I hope you can send some trade their way. Finally, I’d like to wish all readers a happy Christmas and a prosperous and healthy New Year..

Cllr. Phil North Leader of the Test Valley Borough Council

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Springing up across Test Valley!

Urban meadows are springing up across the borough and look set to grow in numbers after a successful first year trialling the project by Test Valley Borough Council.

In spring, a change to the frequency of mowing grass was made across seven hectares of green space to encourage the growth of wildflowers and plants. The aim of this change was to help to reduce the number of visits, reducing the amount of CO2 into the atmosphere, and begin to improve the spaces’ biodiversity value.

The sites across the borough include spaces at Picket Twenty, Smannell Road and Beech Hurst Park in Andover, Whitenap Open Space and Abbotswood in Romsey and a number of areas around Valley Park and North Baddesley.

Volunteer recorders from Romsey and District Society, The Anton River Conservation Association (TARCA) and a number of local naturalists have been monitoring the sites over the summer and recording what species have popped up.

Now, the council is assessing the sites and looking to increase the area of urban meadows over the next two years with the aim to have a total of 18 hectares of urban meadow space across the borough.

Climate emergency and 16

countryside portfolio holder, councillor Alison Johnston, said: “The work creating these urban meadows has really given a wilder more natural feel to some of our green space. I’m delighted to say that the communities benefitting from these meadows have been positive about this change in management, and we are working to increase the area of meadows over the next two years.

“The benefits are clear to see from an aesthetic point of view, as well as our work on the climate emergency action plan. Reducing our mowing is a step to changing the way we manage our spaces with the climate and environment in mind.

“We are keen to work with communities who have ideas on where mowing could be relaxed to improve biodiversity. Please send ideas for new sites to nomowinfo@ testvalley.gov.uk.”

Urban meadow at Picket Twenty

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Unity Dial a Ride Service Romsey period of having reduced capacity and reduced services. It’s thanks to the hard work and continued dedication of our volunteer drivers that we are able to offer a service that is so highly valued by our passengers and enables them to live independent lives.”

Unity Transport announce Romsey and Southern Test Valley Dial a Ride and group hire services are now fully back up and running after reduced services during Covid.

After over a year of reduced services due to the Covid pandemic, Unity, the provider of Dial a ride and Group Hire services in Test Valley are now running services to pre-pandemic timetables and schedules.

Due to increasing demand from existing and new passengers our fleet of modern, fully accessible minibuses, are now all back in service. We have a dedicated team of fully trained volunteer drivers who provide an essential service to local residents to ensure they stay independent and also limit social isolation.

Unity’s Dial a Ride service provide transport for qualifying residents on a weekly service covering Romsey, Wellow, Lockerley, Nursling, North Baddesley and Valley park areas.

Group Hire services are also available from Unity enabling local not for profit groups to hire minibuses with or without volunteer drivers at substantially reduced hire costs when compared to commercial hire.

Jonathan Howells, Unity Volunteer Driver said “I look forward to my driving day each week as I really enjoy making a practical difference as well as providing the opportunity to meet a variety of interesting people. No one week is the same, yet the work is fun.

The role has given me a different perspective on life and I feel fulfilled and enriched. I know I am helping to support an essential service in reducing isolation and loneliness, joy and laughter can be found. We can also keep a gentle eye on people’s wellbeing and health, providing a wider, greater community benefit overall.”

If you would like further information on Unity’s Dial a Ride or Group Hire services then please call 01264 356808 or email transport@unityonline.org.uk or visit our website www.unityonline.org.uk

Stuart McAuliffe, Transport Manager for Unity said “It is absolutely fantastic to see this massively important local service finally start to return to normal after such a long 18

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A Design for Life… The Kevin McCloud Column Designer, writer and television presenter, Kevin McCloud leapt into our consciousness with his vastly successful Grand Designs show on Channel 4. This month, the affable architectural business owner discusses the benefits of mixing formal and contemporary, to great effect.

Where two or more interior design styles meet, it can be for a number of reasons.

Sometimes it’s down to ‘making do’ on a budget – there was perhaps never a more popular time for such contrasts of ideas, side by side, than after the Second World War. That necessity to get the country back on its feet in any way possible meant, in design terms, a whole new set of rules were laid down, where the beauty of aesthetics or the complementing of materials and fabrics could, frankly, wait for another day. It was more important to get our spaces back in a liveable condition.

On other occasions where very polarised looks are worked in together, it can be because the person with the brief wants

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to create something unique, or shock people, or just rip up the rulebook to do something different.

In more recent times, I’ve noted that same acceptance to mix things up when it comes to sustainability.

Where the environment and eco matters are concerned, there is an understanding that not everything is perfect; not everything needs to, or even should, fit together with precision.

On Grand Designs, we have had both ends of the spectrum - people who are seeking to thatch their roofs, then others looking at solar panels.

So when people ask me if there are going to be more futuristic looking buildings in the future, or if the traditional will stay in fashion, for me I think straight away about a whole band of architects who are there trying to evolve a style of architecture that does both. And when you drop in the word sustainability, I think there’s much more leeway, much more margin to perhaps do things that don’t fit as well as we might want them to in the sense of everything matching up to the last piece of fabric.

Mostly, sustainability for me means people are looking both forward, in the sense of caring for and planning for the future, of course. Yet at the same time they are upholding traditional aims, often using an existing template. And that could be anything from the footprint of the house to the setting it is in.

It’s okay to incorporate natural materials with contemporary.

It’s okay to mix gothic with country kitchen if what is represented is personal taste and style. And where sustainability is concerned, perhaps we should even be encouraging this new brand of diversity.

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Spot the Difference Can you find all 7 differences?

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25

12 Days of Christmas Wordsearch Words to find: PARTRIDGE DOVES HENS BIRDS RINGS GEESE SWANS MAIDS LADIES LORDS PIPERS DRUMMERS Can you sing the full song? Here are some hints

1

2

3

4

7

8

9

10 11 12

5

FIND THE ANSWERS ON PAGE 34 26

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

6

Property Fraud : Protect yourself with property alerts A fraudster can pretend to be anyone involved in a property transaction such as the owner, buyer, borrower, lender or conveyancer. Property fraud can be very attractive to fraudsters if they successfully persuade a buyer, their conveyancer or a lender into believing they are the true owner. They can then sell or mortgage the property to get cash from either the purchase monies or the mortgage advance.

This often involves the impersonation of the registered owner and we highlight below who might be most at risk and what properties are seen as desirable targets.

Owners at greater risk are: • unregistered owners • absent owners (eg. abroad, in hospital, in care homes) • landlords • beneficiaries of owners who have died • long-time owners with more equity in their property • sole owners Properties at most risk are: • high value properties • empty properties • properties without a mortgage • tenanted properties The Land Registry are encouraging people to set up a property alert in order to warn them if someone attempts to alter key details of their property online.

• Scammers attempt to transfer your property into their name using false documents, or stolen identities, in some cases, even whilst you are living there.

• The scammers then raise mortgages against, or sell, your property without you knowing.

• Victims can find that they have to leave their home as there is nothing that can be done to get the property back.

• Victims are left with having to claim compensation from the Land Registry to replace their home.

Whilst the Land Registry have been able to stop some cases where fraudulent documents have been submitted, not all cases are stopped, so it is important to help protect yourself against property theft.

To protect yourself against the risk of property fraud, you should consider the following: • Register your property on the Land Registry if it is not already registered.

• Sign up for the free Land Registry Property Alert service. You can get alerts for up to 10 properties, meaning you can help protect vulnerable family or friends as well as yourself.

• Put a restriction on your title: this will stop the Land Registry registering any sale or mortgage on your property unless a conveyancer or solicitor certifies that the application was made by you.

This simple process can help avoid you or someone you know being victim of property fraud. Tell your friends, family, neighbours, and clients. If you would like further information regarding property alerts, please contact us. Bells are a specialist Wills, Probate, Residential and Commercial Conveyancing Practice.

The office is open five days a week Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm (prearranged appointments only).

Our professional service is right on your doorstep.

Tel: 01794 513328 E: bells@bells-romsey-solicitors.co.uk

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27

2

A clover leaf style of walk AROUND THE FRINGE OF TEST VALLEY This walk conjures up a great variety of terrain and covers woodlands and reserves in a remarkable area. At around 4. 5 miles this outing should take the regular walker about 90 minutes, but add more for halts at photo calls. There are 9 road crossings involved so care should be taken at these points. The meeting point is at The Hilt, Hiltingbury Recreation Ground, Hiltingbury Road, Chandlers Ford, SO53 5NP

1 where there is ample, free parking, servicing a variety of sporting venues at the ground (tennis, football, leisure centre and community centre).

By carefully crossing here we adopt the path that is directly behind the fence and weave gently downhill between a myriad of gardens to halt at North Millers Dale in around 600 metres. We actually cross this road and veer left to then enter Flexford Meadows after 100 metres. The path here can be wet and muddy, being part of the stream’s flood plain; however we venture along for only 200 metres when we take the right hand wooden bridge that crosses part of Monks Brook and once again follow this path beside the brook and soon move away, heading through a gate then over a wooden bridge to ultimately re-emerge along North Millers Dale. A careful crossing here will take us into a path through more woods and ultimately veers left to halt at Flexford Road with another careful crossing into a gravel road.

On leaving the car we need to aim towards the perimeter path away from the entrance and turn right threading our way around the playing fields.

Once at the T junction we take the right turn underneath the trees for 300 metres up to Hiltingbury Road.

From there it is left along the footpath up to the main Hursley Road traffic lights.

28

3 This gravel track threads between houses, crosses a local road, and resumes it’s journey as far as Hook Crescent. We keep to the left down

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the Crescent until it takes a sharp right hand turn, which is the point where we aim directly forward into a nicely hidden footpath.

4 By following this narrow path for 300 metres we finally arrive at Hook Road and another careful crossover. Our next path enters Hook Woods and is about 100 metres across the road on the left and provides a steady climb amongst damp mud and shingle for some 400 metres until it levels out and we pass a wood stock compound on the right.

Obviously stacked to season for future use. Shortly after this the gravel road meets a gate at which point we once again turn right into the woods to zig zag between the trees, over another crossing of Monks Brook (more a bog), before a steady climb and then coming back out beside Hook Road.

This should mean we are now facing the crossroads into Hocombe Road, which is our next destination and the penultimate road crossing and a very busy junction so do take care.

Keeping to the footpath we pass number 131 Hocombe Road and select the next delights of Hocombe Mead Nature Reserve on the right hand side.

5

We now descend into a truly boggy zone, cross a stream then turn left using the raised duckboards wherever possible up to a wide gate, pass through this and work round left, passing another entrance to the Reserve, then following right and uphill. Once on top of the hill we drop down again taking care across the slippery steps, aiming towards the bog and a section of further duckboards. Before that section do pause to view carvings in a tree trunk on the right,

6 then continue long the path that will eventually curtail at Hiltingbury Recreation Ground. We are now faced with just one more road crossing, then a trip around the playing fields in the reverse direction from much earlier – and retrieving the car. The nearest coffee house or refreshment lie a short distance along the main road heading towards Chandlers Ford, within a parade of shops.

WRITTEN BY MALCOLM PRICE

the Crescent until it takes a sharp right hand turn, which is the point where we aim directly forward into a nicely hidden footpath.

5

4 By following this narrow path for 300 metres we finally arrive at Hook Road and another careful crossover. Our next path enters Hook Woods and is about 100 metres across the road on the left and provides a steady climb amongst damp mud and shingle for some 400 metres until it levels out and we pass a wood stock compound on the right.

Obviously stacked to season for future use. Shortly after this the gravel road meets a gate at which point we once again turn right into the woods to zig zag between the trees, over another crossing of Monks Brook (more a bog), before a steady climb and then coming back out beside Hook Road.

This should mean we are now facing the crossroads into Hocombe Road, which is our next destination and the penultimate road crossing and a very busy junction so do take care.

Keeping to the footpath we pass number 131 Hocombe Road and select the next delights of Hocombe Mead Nature Reserve on the right hand side.

We now descend into a truly boggy zone, cross a stream then turn left using the raised duckboards wherever possible up to a wide gate, pass through this and work round left, passing another entrance to the Reserve, then following right and uphill. Once on top of the hill we drop down again taking care across the slippery steps, aiming towards the bog and a section of further duckboards. Before that section do pause to view carvings in a tree trunk on the right,

6 then continue long the path that will eventually curtail at Hiltingbury Recreation Ground. We are now faced with just one more road crossing, then a trip around the playing fields in the reverse direction from much earlier – and retrieving the car. The nearest coffee house or refreshment lie a short distance along the main road heading towards Chandlers Ford, within a parade of shops.

WRITTEN BY MALCOLM PRICE

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29

Save your knees and have some fun with Novelty Kneelers!

Many shapes (Cat, Rabbit, Frog, Teacup, Teapot, Car) and colours available Great idea for presents and can be personalised with a message up to 25 characters (including spaces)

Size 400mm x 320mm x 25mm approx. • Free P & P Black or White Foam: £12 Coloured (Blue, Red, Green, Yellow) or Multi-coloured (Black with any of the colours) Foam: £15 Coloured or multi-coloured foam with message: £20

Call Gary on 07788 134302 to place your order

Let’s Sudoku!

Do you love numbers? Enjoy 2 Sudoku challenges in every issue!

5

3 9 7 8 1 2 5 3 3 9 7 2 1 6 9 1 2 7 3 1 3 5 9 2 1 5 3 9 7 3 1 5 9 2 5 3

9

4 1 5 9 2 4 8 1 8 2 2 4 7 9 8 3 2 1 5 4

2 5 1 8 9 4 8 5 9 4 1

FIND THE ANSWERS ON PAGE 34

30

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

9 8 4 2 6

3

Family Run Business since 1970

(Formally Phillips Groundworks & Landscapes)

Is your Conversatory too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter?

If so, we have the perfect, cost effective solution.

Make your conservatory a livable space all year round Phone us for a free quote

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31

Greenfingers… the Alan Titchmarsh column He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist and allround horticultural inspiration.

This month, Alan Titchmarsh talks about making time for your garden to serve you as a place of creativity and contemplation.

It was pointed out to me a few years ago that a lot of my novels contain a sort of yearning for something. That led me to think, maybe I’ve

got a deep in-built craving or hankering. Maybe we all have, and in life we’re all looking for something… something more. I think the lucky ones are those who find it and know when they have found it.

So where am I going with this?

Well, I do sometimes feel a lot of those wants and desires can be arrested by going to a place that gives you quiet contemplation. It was John Lennon who said, “Life is what happens when you’re busy

32

making other plans”.

Well stop being busy, stop making other plans, and for goodness’ sake get out in that garden of yours and enjoy it!

You see, a real problem for a number of gardeners is the fact we spend hours, days, weeks and months tending to that glorious bit of land. We shovel, trim, cut, prune and pick until our hands are blistered and our knees are sore, yet omit to actually take a step back, or pull up a chair, or just sit on the blessed grass and soak it all in.

Satisfaction in your garden sometimes comes in not gardening; it’s in the ability to stop!

So as we get ready for when winter morphs wonderfully into spring, perhaps try to do less, not more.

is all those blemishes and flaws that make nature what it is beautiful.

I’ve got two gardens of my own and I’m very proud of them one in Hampshire, and a small coastal plot on the Isle of Wight.

They are my achievements, my own little bit of land… but they’re only relevant and special if I remember to spend time in them, enjoying them, and sometimes, you know, doing nothing much at all!

I know that can be easier said than done; there are always jobs to do, and there will be those of us who cannot sit still in the garden - we find it difficult to stop, to accept a space how it is, always spotting imperfections here and there. In truth, it

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Answers Page PUB CHRISTMAS QUIZ 1) Oh the weather outside is frightful, 2) O Come, All Ye Faithful, 3) Figgy pudding, 4) Ding Dong Merrily on High, 5) Six types of birds: Partridge, Turtle Doves, French Hens, Calling Birds, Geese, and Swans 6) Newborn King, 7) The Christmas Song, 8) God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen 9) O Little Town of Bethlehem, 10) Little Drummer Boy 11) Once in Royal David's City, 12) Holiday Inn, 13) The First Noel, 14) In the Bleak Midwinter, 15) You'll go down in history, 16) Jingle Bells 17) Hay, 18) Winter Wonderland, 19) Pear tree 20) Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

34

2 4 3 5 9 7 1 6 8

5 7 6 8 2 1 4 3 9

1 8 9 6 4 3 5 2 7

4 9 8 2 1 5 3 7 6

3 1 5 9 7 6 8 4 2

6 2 7 3 8 4 9 1 5

9 6 2 4 3 8 7 5 1

7 5 4 1 6 9 2 8 3

8 3 1 7 5 2 6 9 4

9 7 2 6 5 3 8 1 4

8 3 4 1 2 9 6 5 7

6 1 5 8 4 7 3 9 2

4 5 8 9 1 6 2 7 3

3 9 1 2 7 4 5 6 8

2 6 7 3 8 5 9 4 1

5 8 3 7 9 1 4 2 6

1 4 6 5 3 2 7 8 9

7 2 9 4 6 8 1 3 5

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Double Glazing Repair UK ...For a clearer outlook

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Viewfinders of Romsey Camera Club

Member of the Southern Counties Photographic Federation affiliated to the PAGB

“Demoiselle, Reed and River Test” was the image chosen by the judge, Louis Rumis, as the winner of the print category at Viewfinders of Romsey Camera Club’s annual Nature Trophy evening. Louis said “I love it”.

Terry also took bronze with “Male Sympetrum” (a small dragonfly) and Margaret Cooper’s photograph “Long-eared Owl” took silver. Stephen Cooper was awarded a Seal of Merit for “Ringlet” (a type of butterfly).

Pete Robertson’s “Pairing”, an image of two variable oystercatchers, took gold in the

projected image category. Louis said the image worked well and he liked the environment around the birds. Silver went to Roy Lambeth for “Blusher Fungi in Habitat” and bronze went to Stephen Cooper for “Marbled White”. Roy was also awarded two Seals of Merit and further Seals were awarded to John Allen, Margaret Cooper and Christine Wenman.

Viewfinders meets most Tuesdays at the Jubilee Hall, New Road, Timsbury and new members, regardless of photographic experience, are always welcome.

For more information, visit the club’s website at www.viewfinderscameraclub.org.uk or e-mail secretary@viewfinderscc.org.uk

Pairing by Pete Robertson – winner of projected image category

Demoiselle, Reed and River Test

by Terry Jamieson – winner of print category 36

Presentation to Terry Jamieson judge Louis Rumis on left; Terry with cup and print on right

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PARKING SENSORS WITH AUDIBLE WARNING FITTED

Rear set colour coded: from £155 Front set colour coded: from £185 Both Front & Rear Sensors: from £275 CRUISE CONTROL FOR MOST VEHICLES £425 FITTED PRICE.

T.A. Spacagna Ltd Washing Machine, Dishwasher, Tumble Dryer, Fridge & Freezer, Cooler & Cooker Repair Specialists Call Outs available Monday-Friday Competitive Labour Rates

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Rear view cameras for Cars £180, Vans from £195 & Motorhomes from £245 Dash cameras starting at £145 fully fitted or FRONT & REAR cameras for just £225

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Renovations Ltd

 Loft conversions  Garage conversions  Extensions  Listed building works  General plumbing and carpentry   Patios, block paving and ground work  Kitchens  Bathrooms  For a free no obligation survey contact us on:

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47 39

Sleep Easy Five reasons why plentiful sleep is vital to your health.

ONE - Sleep increases productivity - Adults and children alike will struggle to maintain concentration when working if they are deficient in sleep. Scientists suggest we are 30% more productive early in the morning versus late at night, with the replenishment of sleep stimulating the mind and driving focus. For adults, getting eight hours a night is considered to be the premium amount of rest.

Effective sleep means we make better sense of life events, and can approach new tasks with clarity and vigour.

TWO - Sleep boosts your immune system and health - Your immune system is designed to help you fight off illness and disease, but the more efficient it is, the better it will be at doing it. Sleep fuels that efficiency, so getting rest means a smaller chance of catching a cold, the flu, or worse, as well as providing a better response if you are infected.

suggest people who claim to frequently get out ‘the wrong side of bed’ do so because of a lack of sleep, it’s true that poor and negative moods (encompassing anger, sadness, paranoia, frustration, irritability) are connected to insufficient sleep.

Increased rest also means weight gain can be lessened, with reduced burden on your heart, and lower blood pressure.

Best of both worlds - Sleep is one of the few things that relies on both quantity and quality. Time is an essential element, but so is regularity and comfort. Distractions should be minimal and sleeping with lights on is problematic as it makes it difficult for your brain to achieve deeper rest.

THREE - Sleep prevents accidents - Lack of sleep is a big contributing factor to accidents. Restful people are generally more aware and alert, while recent studies show that you’re twice as likely to have a car accident when sleep deprived below seven six hours; and the chance of an accident is doubled for each hour under five hours.

40

FOUR - Sleep improves our memories - When we sleep, we dream – this is our mind’s way of processing events and thoughts, which includes storing away and compartmentalising what goes on in our lives.

In contrast, plentiful sleep is directly linked to enhanced wellbeing.

Experts say that failure to sleep and an inability to allow our brains to create order through dreams can even stimulate fake memories because the brain has not had enough time to process real ones.

FIVE - Sleep enhances our mood and general wellbeing - While there’s no evidence to

Conclusion - Better sleep, better life. Improving your ability to sleep well and for longer is a positive thing - for your mind, for your body, for your prosperity.

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WE CLEAN MOSS OFF ROOFS WITH FANTASTIC RESULTS, WITHOUT PRESSURE WASHING & WITHOUT STANDING ON THE ROOF

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Free no obligation quote 01202 245906 / 07967 525992 Stay Strong, Healthy and Fit by Adding Strength Training into Your Life

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Curves Romsey Station Approach Romsey, SO51 8DU Tel: 01794 516646 @CurvesRomsey *Offer valid on first visit enrolment for a 12-month membership. Monthly fees waived from first visit enrolment until 31/12/2021 . New members only. Not valid with any other promotions. Valid at participating locations during 01/11/2021 - 30/11/2021 © 2018 Curves International, Inc.

30 minutes of Strength Training & Cardio a day can boost your overall health We all know that exercise is good for health and longevity, however information on women’s health and fitness is scarce.

Recent research by the European Society of Cardiology found that women who exercise are at significantly lower risk of dying from heart disease, cancer and other causes. Most of the study participants were middle-aged or older women: the average age was 64, and 80% were between 50 and 75.

There are so many ways to keep active nowadays. Apps, gyms, groups but not all of these are tailored to women.

But places like Curves are dedicated exclusively to women’s fitness. Curves clubs are for women only, which means women can train, sweat, and have fun in an all-female environment. The Curves programme is designed with women in mind combining cardio and strength training and packaging it in an attractive 30min daily workout: no heavy weight lifting, no drama.

Cardio and strength training is good for your heart, lungs, and circulatory system. It is also beneficial to fight stress, boost your metabolism and keep depression at bay.

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41

Thousands awarded to boost energy efficiency A successful bid from Test Valley Borough Council has seen the authority awarded just over £30,000 to provide information, advice and assistance to private landlords who rent out properties in the borough which fall below the legal requirements in terms of their energy efficiency rating.

Earlier this year, the borough council put in a bid to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) for funding to train staff as domestic energy assessors.

Now, the authority has been awarded just over £30,000, which means certain housing officers will be able to advise landlords on property improvements to make their building more efficient in saving energy.

The training will also help to upskill council staff on enforcement action when it’s required.

The Domestic Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) Regulations set a minimum energy efficiency level for domestic private rented properties. Since 1 April 2020, landlords can no longer let or

42

continue to let properties covered by the MEES Regulations if they have an EPC rating below E, unless they have a valid exemption in place. It is estimated that there are around 400 properties in Test Valley rated between F and G for energy efficiency, and it will be the landlords of those properties who will be approached and offered advice and assistance.

The funding will also go towards an additional technology and database resource, which will enable property details to be automatically updated with energy efficiency standards.

The system will also provide landlord guidance, letters and enforcement notices for the team to use.

Housing and environmental health portfolio holder, councillor Tracey Tasker, said: “For us to be awarded this funding from central government is fantastic and will really help bridge the gap in the efficiency of our properties in Test Valley to ensure everyone is getting value for money in heating their homes, all while protecting the environment.”

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43

Spiced Festive Biscuits Introduction

Rustle up a little festive cheer with these delectable and delicately spiced biscuits, ideal for hanging on your tree or just for brightening up your tea break.

Ingredients

For the biscuits

350g plain flour – plus extra for rolling 200g butter 175g dark brown sugar 1tbsp golden syrup 1tsp bicarbonate of soda 1 large egg ½tsp ground cinnamon ½tsp ground nutmeg ½tsp ground ginger For the decoration 100g white chocolate (melted) OR 100g icing sugar Sprinkles or silver baubles

Top Tips • Turn your biscuits into tree decorations by making a hole into each one before baking, using a skewer then thread through ribbon once cooled.

• This dough can be made ahead by placing in the freezer after having been wrapped in cling film to chill. Simply defrost and roll out to bake.

• Pre-made icing or chocolate that is ready-to-melt in a tube is a great option for those who feel less confident using a piping bag.

44

Method

Top Tip

Decorated biscuits will last several days on a tree or up to a week in an airtight container.

1. Gently warm the butter, sugar and golden syrup over a low heat until it has melted. Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl making a well in the centre to pour the wet ingredients into.

Mix until a workable dough forms. Once cooled, wrap the dough in cling film and place in the fridge for at least one hour to chill.

2. Preheat the oven to 190°C, fan 170°C, gas mark 5 and line two baking sheets with baking paper. Meanwhile, roll out the biscuit dough onto a lightly floured surface to around ½cm thick and cut out your biscuits using festive shapes of choice.

Reroll leftover dough and cut until you have none left. Bake for 10-12 minutes until a golden brown.

3. Once cooled, preferably on wire racks, place either melted chocolate or icing sugar – that has been mixed with water to form a thick paste – into a piping bag and use to decorate the biscuits, adding baubles and other decorations while the icing is still wet. Let dry completely before hanging.

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Advertisers Index

Your quick guide to everyone and everything in your Gazette...

Accountants

Foot Care Services

Plumbers

........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Stone Osmond 33 ..................................................................................................................................................................

Sarah Stokes Medical Pedicures 43 ............................................................................................

G.E Harding and Sons Limited 38 ..................................................................................................................................................................

Steps Footcare 15 ............................................................................................

NO.1 PHD 23

Appliance Repairs

Funeral Directors Property Maintenance ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

T.A.Spacagna 37 ..................................................................................................................................................................

AH Cheater & Sons 35 ............................................................................................

Avon Home Improvements 19 Bathrooms

Furniture Residential Care Homes ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Ocean Bathrooms 33 ..................................................................................................................................................................

Sofa Smith 1 ............................................................................................

Abbotswood Care 48 ..................................................................................................................................................................

Swan Systems Furniture Ltd 21 ............................................................................................

Glenhurst Manor 9 Books

........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Oasis Christian Trust 39

Garage Doors

Roofing Services

Fix My Garage Door ..................................................................................................................................................................

43 ............................................................................................

Central Point Services Ltd 45 Builders ..................................................................................................................................................................

Skandoor 13 ............................................................................................

Moss Off Roof 41 ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

JS Building Services 39 ............................................................................................

Right Roof 24 ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

SB Renovations 38 ............................................................................................

Stormproof Homes Ltd 15,31 Garage Services ............................................................................................

Work Smart Roofing 3 ..................................................................................................................................................................

Greatbridge Motor Services Ltd 39 Cameras ..................................................................................................................................................................

Premier Car Care 38 ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Rocky Rock Cameras 35 Solicitors ..................................................................................................................................................................

ReversePark 37 ..................................................................................................................................................................

Trickett Welding 24 ............................................................................................

Bells Solicitors 27

Cleaning Services

........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Cookerburra 21 Garden Services Taxi Services ..................................................................................................................................................................

Novelty Kneelers 30 ............................................................................................

Abbey Cars 19 ..................................................................................................................................................................

Romsey Stump Grinding & 24,43 Community Groups Landscaping ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The Social Collective Project 45 TV Sales & Servicing ..................................................................................................................................................................

Sunset Developments 31 ............................................................................................

Tass Romsey 38

Computer Services

Gyms & Exercise Groups

........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Widenet Computer Services Ltd 21 Waste Services ..................................................................................................................................................................

Curves - Romsey 41 ............................................................................................

S.E.S Environmental Ltd 43 ..................................................................................................................................................................

Golden Gecko Climbing 17

Dentists

........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Lowen Dental Spa 11 Will Writing Services Hearing Services

............................................................................................

Dorset & Wight Wills 25 ..................................................................................................................................................................

The Private Ear Clinic 24

Drainage Services

........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

NO.1 PHD 23 Windows, Doors & Memorial Stonemasons

Driveways

Lockerley Stone ..................................................................................................................................................................

45 Conservatories ..................................................................................................................................................................

RGR Memorials Ltd 37 ............................................................................................

County Windows 7

............................................................................................

Double Glazing Repair UK 35 Cornerstone Paving Solutions ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

13 ............................................................................................

G S Windows Ltd 5 ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

County Block Paving 11 Mobility Products & ............................................................................................

Outlook Window Systems Ltd 47

Services Electricians

..................................................................................................................................................................

A to B Mobility 17

........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

RG Electrix 17

Fires & Stoves

........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Stoves and Fireplaces 2

46

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

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WINDOW SYSTEMS LIMITED

TEL: 023

8073 7866

www.outlookwindows.co.uk

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WIND ORS DO

 Tailored-made orangeries, conservatories, windows and doors to suit all properties

 We provide a full service including all building works, floor tiling, electrics and planning when necessary

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Reg No 16450

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47