The Romsey & Wellow Gazette - June 2021

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June

Edition of your local Romsey & Wellow Gazette Community Magazine!

Dear Residents, At this time of writing, I have all my fingers crossed that we are eating inside as well as outside with family and friends and all the statistics are staying low. We may have even hugged a family member or two! Oh, what freedom. All those ‘normal’ activities of popping round to see someone, having a good old chat, shaking hands to say Hello and indeed Goodbye, a peck on the cheek or in fact a huge hug for the grandchildren. We can do that again! It is so exciting. Let’s keep vigilant and keep washing those hands to make this go right and keep our freedom. I never thought I would be writing this… who would have ever thought?

With that in mind our wonderful local trades and services are here to welcome you with open arms too. Give them a call, ask for their advice and book them in. I am as pleased as ever to see our advertisers productive. Please do mention us when making those allimportant calls and do say “Hello!” from us. We love to keep them busy.

We wish you a very jolly June. May you smile and enjoy a dinner or two out with good company!

Very Best Wishes, Take Care and Stay Safe ,

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

6 History: Royalty Revered 8 Hants Country & Garden Show 10 Pub Quiz 12 Interview: Ramsay’s Revival 14 Councillor’s Column 16 Crossword Puzzle 18 Quirky Facts about Hampshire 20 Park Proms 22 Spot the Difference 24 Viewfinders of Romsey 26 Must Read Books for June 30 Puzzle Answers 31-34 Romsey Town Council News 38 The Adventures of Daichi 50 Health & Beauty Feature 60 Recipe: Creamy Courgette

Advertise w ith us us with Take your business to new heights with our affordable advertising packages!

Supply your own artwork or use our inhouse design and brand expert.

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01264 316499 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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Royalty Revered Celebrating 150 years since the opening of the Royal Albert Hall.

It’s somewhat unfair that a landmark anniversary of the Royal Albert Hall’s long legacy won’t be celebrated on the exact date. In fact, when David Arnold – he of Bond, Independence Day and Sherlock soundtrack fame – takes to the stage in mid-July, it will be over three months late, given the South Kensington venue first opened its doors on March 29th 1871.

The spectacular dome, which measures 20,000ft, sits above an auditorium that boasts a capacity of 5,272 people and is, of course, named after Prince Albert, the husband of Victoria.

When the Covid-delayed celebrations begin, the Royal Albert Hall, in 2021, benefits from incredible acoustics, stateof-the-art sound systems, impeccable lighting and firstclass stage technology, yet so many other parts of the original venue still remain untouched, and that’s what gives it its unique charm.

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The venue was funded out of the profits from London’s Great Exhibition.

Now Grade I-listed, it cost £200,000 to construct and took four years to complete. The first performance was by Charles Gounod on May 8th 1972, as his orchestra played Handel’s Messiah. In respect of that landmark event, Messiah has been played every Good Friday afternoon at the venue since.

Electric lighting was introduced shortly after the hall opened, and over the years arts and science exhibitions have utilised the space, with more events actually held in the outer rooms – over 400 per year – than the main auditorium.

Tradition has always been at the heart of things – there were Sunday concerts for six decades up to the end of the World War II, and the Proms has a permanent place in the hearts of traditional music devotees.

The hall was partially bombed by the Germans in 1942, while moves to cure the ‘Albert Hall echo’ were put in place in the 1960s, with acoustic diffusing discs being hung from the ceiling.

A £40m refurbishment programme was undertaken in 1996 and these days the Royal Albert Hall continues to promote various education and outreach projects. It’s a charity in its own right, and even boasts a performance database that lists each of the artists who have appeared at an estimated 30,000 events since 1871.

Attendees are treated to unobstructed viewing, some incredible VIP boxes, private rooms, and awe-inspiring auditorium, and a gallery around the perimeter that houses bar and restaurant space. What’s more, one special person, each night, will find themselves with the unexpected privilege of sitting on seat 87, row 11, under the K stalls in the main auditorium.

It is an unassuming seat, but one that rests on the foundation stone that was laid by Victoria way back in 1867.

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THE HAMPSHIRE COUNTRY & GARDEN FESTIVAL IS BACK! The annual Hampshire Country & Garden Festival is back for 2021 in the beautiful, private gardens of Bere Mill in Whitchurch.

The festival launches on Saturday 26th June with a special evening of sparkling wine, cocktails and canapés followed by a luxury picnic hamper supper, a silent auction and a fast auction finale hosted by rugby sports presenter Mark Durden-Smith. Dust off your dancing shoes ready to party the rest of the night away courtesy of Afterdark Entertainment.

On Sunday 27th June the

festival opens at 9.30am and offers a fabulous day out for all the family. Be inspired by expert guest speakers on topics as diverse as ‘Producing Food with Nature’, ‘The Well Gardened Mind’ and ‘Running Free, Swimming Wild.’ Live music from local band ‘Head North’ will create a wonderful atmosphere as you sample Hampshire’s finest food and drink and let your younger family members try circus skills, enjoy story-telling or cuddle animal rescue rabbits - just a few of the many children’s activities available.

For keen gardeners, there are opportunities to browse the beautiful plant nurseries, drop in at the Garden Clinic hosted by local gardening experts and ask the expert ‘Gardeners Question Time’

panel all your gardening queries. For shoppers, there will be a wide range of stalls from local businesses selling arts and gifts, food and drink.

Last but not least, enter your canine friends in our very own Family Fun Dog show!

The weekend is in support of The Hampshire Medical Fund, a charity buying pioneering medical equipment for Basingstoke, Andover and Winchester NHS hospitals. The focus this year is to purchase new and vital Resuscitaire machines for the neonatal departments.

With thanks to our gold sponsor, JM Finn Wealth Management and our silver sponsors, Fowler Architecture & Planning and NFU Mutual North Hampshire.

To book tickets visit: hampshiregardenfestival.co.uk

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1. Who was the first female Prime Minister of Great Britain?

13. Who provides the voice-over for Maggie in the Simpsons?

2. Which team won the 2003 Formula One car racing championship?

3. What is the national capital city of Canada?

4. How many ribs are in a human body?

5. Who is the author of 'A Christmas Carol'?

6. Which continents form the New World?

14. How many bytes are there in a kilobyte?

7. What do the letters BFG stand for in Roald Dahl's famous children's book?

15. Who played Elliott's little sister Gertie in the film E.T.?

8. Which group released a hit song in 2007 called 'Ruby'?

9. On a clothing label, what is symbolized by a circle with a cross running through it?

10. Do camels store water in their humps?

16. What is the largest island in the world?

17. What name is given to animals whose diets consist only of plants?

18. What type of food is Stollen?

19. Which famous corporation uses the motto 'Just Do It'?

11. What is the longest river in England, that runs through England only?

12. What is meant by the term 'on the rocks' on a drinks menu?

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20. Which male artist broke a record in March 2017 with the achievement of 16 songs in the UK Top 20?

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Ramsay’s Revival Top chef Gordon Ramsay outlines the food trends we should look out for in 2021.

It says a lot that in a Twitter post published on New Year’s Day, Gordon Ramsay decided to use the opportunity to tell the year 2020 to, well… let’s just say ‘not come back’.

While the global Covid pandemic has turned a lot of us into accomplished, skilled, proficient home cooks (in our own minds, at least, if not in reality), the effect it’s had on the chefs, staff and restaurateurs of the world’s best restaurants has been less positive. Most establishments have endured almost a year of closure – Ramsay’s portfolio of high-quality restaurants included. It’s a factor that has led to something of an accidental food revolution in our homes.

“With every disaster there is an upside and a downside,” he says. “While a lot of industries have been torn apart by Covid, it has been the making of others – think about the way we buy stuff over the internet, and home delivery of goods.

Think too about cleanliness and hygiene… things that have always been of interest to me as a chef – we’re now all obsessed with it.

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“In the same way, the fact we’re not going to restaurants hasn’t meant we’ve stopped eating – instead, people are discovering and developing new ways to enjoy food at home. As someone passionate about food, I can only support that; even if it’s cost me millions!” he says, referencing

have really stepped up in terms of efficiencies, and it’s those changes that will serve them well in future,” he says. “We’ve all had time to sit back and redo the maths on what works for our businesses and what doesn’t, and that’s going to be of real value going forward.”

As far as creativity goes, the 54-year-old remains as ebullient as ever.

“I also see people becoming braver with their flavours,” he continues. “We’ve all felt hemmed in, repressed, even imprisoned in their lives at the moment. You will always get a dramatic reaction to that, and I think we’ll see that across a number of areas, food included. I’m expecting a real explosion of creativity, across the board. the huge losses suffered during the repeated lockdowns the UK has suffered.

“It sounds ridiculous to say that, but producers, hosts, retailers and everyone else involved in getting food from field to plate

“I’ve also really enjoyed the extra time I’ve had to interact with lovers of food – it’s been a really unexpected thing that’s come out of Covid, and I think we’ll all be talking more and sharing more over the coming year, and beyond.”

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Councillors Column Thank you to everyone who voted in the local elections last month. I’m truly humbled to have been elected to the County Council and will continue to work my socks off to repay the faith the people of Andover South have shown in me. To be clear, this doesn’t affect my commitment to leading Test Valley, which remains as strong as ever. But it does mean I’ll be able to use my wealth of experience to deliver for Andover and the wider borough. Bringing the County on board to help deliver the town centre masterplans, pushing them to upgrade their waste infrastructure so we can all recycle more, and lobbying them to be more proactive on potholes.

Talking of Test Valley, I’m also delighted to welcome back both Jan Budzynski and Jim Neal to the borough council as representatives of St Mary’s and Millway Wards in Andover following recent by-elections. I’m also pleased that both Mike Maltby and Terese Swain were elected in Chilworth, Nursling and Rownhams to fill the vacancies left by the sad deaths of my colleagues Nigel Anderdon and Alison Finlay last year.

Whilst the national picture was extremely positive for my party this is also an endorsement of the work we’ve been doing locally. Giving us a mandate to continue to lead the local recovery from coronavirus, whilst also continuing to deliver on our plans to regenerate our town centres. My thanks too to all the candidates who put themselves forward.

It takes an enormous amount of bravery to stick your head above the parapet and stand for election – and it’s great for local democracy that people were given a choice.

Following the huge success of the vaccine rollout, step three in the easing of

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lockdown restrictions has now kicked in.

As well as bringing families together, this is great news for our hospitality industry and local hostelries, which are raring to fully get going as the summer approaches.

As our lives edge back towards normality though, it’s important we don’t forget the value we placed on our local green spaces throughout lockdown and as part of our work to tackle climate change we want to make them more wildlife-friendly, by creating a number of urban meadows right across Test Valley. This means that the grass in these particularly pilot areas will be left unmown until September before being cut and collected. This approach will allow grasses and plants to develop providing valuable habitat for insects and birds. All the sites will be monitored over the next few months and a record of any notable plant species emerging will be kept. At the end of the summer, a decision will be made to continue to manage these spaces as meadow, reseed with a wildflower mix to improve the wildlife value or discontinue. This year, approximately 7-hectares of land within our open spaces will be managed as urban meadows. If the pilot is successful, then the longer-term plan will see the scheme extended. To be clear, this doesn’t mean whole areas of recreation land will be left unmown, we are talking about relatively small parcels of land and areas at the edges of our current parkland.

Cllr. Phil North Leader of the Test Valley Borough Council

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Crossword Puzzle - Cinema & Movies 1

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9 10

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13 14

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15 17 18

19 21

20 22 23 24 28

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ACROSS 4. This movie has been translated into 10 languages 8. Written version of a film 12. Place where tickets are sold 15. What time’s the next ________ ?

16. Movie that continues the story of an eariier one 18. Is the movie dubbed or are there ___________ ?

19. Studio furniture and scenery 22. Everyone loves a happy ___________ 23. Brad Pitt’s my favourite __________ 25. Film award 28. ________ Pitt and Jolie were great in that movie 30. Make a film 31. Cowboy film 32. Usually shown before the movie starts FIND THE ANSWERS ON PAGE 30

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DOWN 1. They’re going to _______ the film in July 2. Play a role 3. What’s on ______ at the movies?

5. Disney animation 6. Film that is very popular and successful 7. Failure 9. Equipment used for showing films 10. ‘An inconvenient Truth’ or ‘Amy’ for example 11. Person who deals with the financial aspect of movie making 13. Movie 14. Animated film 17. Where films are made 20. James Bond is one 21. Female actor 24. Who played Voldemort in the Harry Potter movies?

26. Famoust actor or actress 27. Unsuccessful movie 29. Successful movie

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QUIRKY

BY MICA BALE

As the summer months begin to unfurl, Hampshire continues to be one of the loveliest counties in Britain. Whether you are enjoying a staycation and exploring new areas of our county or enjoying old favourites, why not enjoy another delve into Hampshire’s quirky heritage. From arguably one of the most historic villages in the county to one of the largest tree collections in the world, here are five more interesting facts from around Hampshire.

Did you know that the Duke of Wellington, Sir Arthur Wellesley himself sealed the fate of many Andover residents when he presided as judge over a certain trial? In 1830, the Swing riots began to come to a head with countless agricultural workers protesting harsh conditions. On the 20th of November 1830, the Taskers Waterloo Ironworks at Upper Clatford was attacked. Several days of riots continued until eventually many were captured and the Duke of Wellington, as Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, was eager to show his strength, sentencing many to others and others to the harsh transportation punishments. He later commented that, “Upon the whole this commission has worked well and has already produced a good effect and I hope that its consequences will be long felt.”

With a regal history that dates as far back as 1086 as part of the Crown’s lands, Kings Somborne has always been an ancient favourite and was even once owned by John of Gaunt who reportedly had a palace built in the village. Although royal attention has dwindled somewhat today, Kings Somborne is a living snapshot into its fascinating history with roughly one hundred grade listed buildings and is an ideal location for walks taking in the village’s rich heritage.

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PHOTO: ANNIE SPRATT

Did you know that there has been a light shining at Hurst Point Lighthouse since at least 1786? Located on the western edge of the Solent, the lighthouse has been an important beacon for several centuries.

Throughout its life, the lighthouse has constantly adapted with frequent additions and changes of the position of the light. With expansions from the nearby Hurst castle it became apparent that the position of the light made it difficult for ship’s captains navigating the treacherous waters that surround Hurst Point.

PHOTO: CRAIG COOPER

PHOTO: NICK SEAGRAVE

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Were you aware that the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens at Romsey is home to more than forty thousand trees and shrubs? The brainchild of visionary horticulturist Harold Hillier, the gardens were gifted to Hampshire County Council in 1977. Hillier was born into a family of gardeners and spent great portions of his time reconfiguring the botany that had suffered and declined following the first world war. The gardens he created surround Jermyn's House, the home he purchased which interestingly was used as a smallpox hospital in the 18th century. Today the gardens are recognised as one of the largest collections in the UK and further afield and is a world respected collection for rare breeds.

Did you know that Dylan Thomas was a Hampshire resident for some time? His parents in law lived in Blashford and it was here that, after he was introduced to Caitlyn, he lived with her after they married. Their relationship was of course tumultuous to say the least and it was no better with his mother-in-law. In fact, in a notebook that was discovered years after his death, the poet commented that “This flat English country levels the intelligence, planes down the imagination, narrows the a’s, my ears belch old wax and misremembered passages of misunderstood music, I sit and hate my mother-in-law, glowering at her from corners and grumbling about her”! Despite the harsh criticisms of Hampshire, the notebook contained many remarkable works. No doubt the county did much to inspire, whatever Dylan Thomas would say!

Were you aware that the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens at Romsey is home to more than forty thousand trees and shrubs? The brainchild of visionary horticulturist Harold Hillier, the gardens were gifted to Hampshire County Council in 1977. Hillier was born into a family of gardeners and spent great portions of his time reconfiguring the botany that had suffered and declined following the first world war. The gardens he created surround Jermyn's House, the home he purchased which interestingly was used as a smallpox hospital in the 18th century. Today the gardens are recognised as one of the largest collections in the UK and further afield and is a world respected collection for rare breeds.

4

PHOTO: ANNIE SPRATT

Did you know that there has been a light shining at Hurst Point Lighthouse since at least 1786? Located on the western edge of the Solent, the lighthouse has been an important beacon for several centuries.

Throughout its life, the lighthouse has constantly adapted with frequent additions and changes of the position of the light. With expansions from the nearby Hurst castle it became apparent that the position of the light made it difficult for ship’s captains navigating the treacherous waters that surround Hurst Point.

PHOTO: CRAIG COOPER

Did you know that Dylan Thomas was a Hampshire resident for some time? His parents in law lived in Blashford and it was here that, after he was introduced to Caitlyn, he lived with her after they married. Their relationship was of course tumultuous to say the least and it was no better with his mother-in-law. In fact, in a notebook that was discovered years after his death, the poet commented that “This flat English country levels the intelligence, planes down the imagination, narrows the a’s, my ears belch old wax and misremembered passages of misunderstood music, I sit and hate my mother-in-law, glowering at her from corners and grumbling about her”! Despite the harsh criticisms of Hampshire, the notebook contained many remarkable works. No doubt the county did much to inspire, whatever Dylan Thomas would say!

19

Save the date for Park Proms!

27 August 2021 Broadlands Estate - Romsey www.parkproms.com

If you’re looking for fabulous things to do this summer, then look no further than Park Proms. Enjoy live music once again in the great outdoors with your loved ones!

This is the event that we’ve all been waiting for. Taking place at the beautiful Broadlands estate in Romsey, Hampshire, the event promises to be a wonderfully British spectacle featuring prolific artists and entertainment for you and your family.

The stage is set for the event of 2021.

Night one - Friday 27 August - features performances by the prestigious Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and special guests: The Welsh baritone, former boy soprano, television and radio presenter, Aled Jones & English mezzo-soprano, Laura Wright.

The world famous, 78-piece Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra (RPCO) is headlining Friday night will play a “Last night of the proms” styled concert with a number of pieces from some of the greatest films including Harry Potter, James Bond & Star Wars.

Broadlands is a beautiful, historic, unique English estate and the perfect outdoor setting for a midsummer concert. The House and Parkland sit at the heart of the community and the House is the home of the Mountbatten family.

Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra

The event hosts a plethora of fantastic local delicious food treats, from boutique Fish and chips to artisan pizza.

This is thanks to their partnership with Hampshire Fare, ensuring that all of the food and drink available comes from some of the region’s most delicious, locally sourced and ethical produce.

A hospitality lounge will also provide a VIP experience for those seeking something extra special.

Unique venue in an outstanding location

Special Guest

Aled Jones

Tickets are available at www.parkproms.com

Park Proms Ticket Promise If Park Proms can not take place on advice from the UK Government, our Ticket Promise means your tickets would roll over to the new date in 2022 or you request a refund.

Special Guest

Laura Wright

The best local food & drink suppliers

+ World-class air display & many more surprises...

Book tickets at www.parkproms.com or Call 0333 577 3898

27 August 2021 Broadlands Estate - Romsey www.parkproms.com

Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra

Unique venue in an outstanding location

Special Guest

Laura Wright

Special Guest

Aled Jones

The best local food & drink suppliers

+ World-class air display & many more surprises...

Book tickets at www.parkproms.com or Call 0333 577 3898

Spot the Difference There are 12 of them to find!

Find the answers on Page 30

22

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF QUALITY ESCORTED GARDEN TOURS AND HERITAGE THEMED BREAKS

Smaller groups and superb touring programmes Join horticultural expert Andy McIndoe who is leading a four night Norfolk Garden break in July 2021.

Collections from central Romsey and Winchester for some garden holidays

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23

Still unable to meet in person, Viewfinders of Romsey Camera Club has been meeting online and recently held this year’s Les Frederick Trophy, an annual single subject competition. This year’s subject was “shadows” and sixtythree images were entered by Viewfinders members. The judge, Paul Thackeray, commented on the high quality and variety of the entries.

The eventual winner was John Allen’s “Celebration”, which the judge said had been a great idea, well planned and executed. Second place was awarded to “Me and My Shadow” by Christine Wenman and Terry Jamieson’s “MultiStorey Escape Route” was third. Terry also received a Seal of Merit for another image; Stuart Bennett received two Seals and Lynn Lambeth, Stephen Cooper and Mike Wenman also received one Seal each.

Meeting online this has enabled the club to have speakers & judges from further afield than is normally practicable. In normal circumstances 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.

24

Celebration: Winner - John Allen

Me & my shadow: 2nd Place Christine Wenman Multi storey escape route: 3rd Place Terry Jameson

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25

Must-Read Books For June Whet your appetite with snapshots of summer holidays spent by the seaside, or perhaps immerse yourself in a gripping thriller – here are this month’s sumptuous book releases.

A Day at the Beach Hut: Stories and Recipes Inspired

by Seaside Life

by Veronica Henry (June 10th) A family enjoy their last holiday at a much-loved beach hut. The tide brings in an old face – and a new temptation – while a writer’s retreat is shaken up by a surprise arrival. The simple pleasures of the seaside compete with the Instagram dream, a couple’s future is turned upside down, and a celebratory evening takes a stormy turn. And as the sun sets, an unexpected romance is simmering...

Escape to the coast with this delicious collection of short stories and beachhut inspired recipes from Sunday Times bestselling author Veronica Henry the perfect summer treat!

The First Day of Spring by Nancy Tucker (June 24th) Not for the faint-hearted, this chilling debut wastes no time in pulling the reader deep into its murky undertow.

26

Documenting a difficult childhood during which she grew up ‘black, weird, and overwhelmingly uncool in a mostly white neighbourhood in upstate New York’, Henderson uses wit and candour to delve into some important topics.

A taut and impeccably crafted pageturner about what propels one eight-year-old girl to commit an unspeakable act, and the tensely moving effect it has on the rest of her life, The First Day of Spring is not just about how neglect and loneliness can shape a child, but also how they can have a lasting impact even when that child becomes a mother herself.

The Ugly Cry: A Memoir by Danielle Henderson (June 8th) Having firmly made a name for herself as a television writer (Maniac, Divorce and Dare Me), Danielle Henderson now turns her formidable talent to the memoir.

Mostly though, it is a book about family and the fierce bond between a vulnerable child and her devoted grandmother.

Hungry by Grace Dent (June 10th) The highly anticipated memoir from one of Britain’s bestloved food writers, Hungry is a joyous journey through Dent’s fascinating life.

From growing up eating beige food to becoming a celebrated London gourmand, it is a personal story, but also everyone’s story – from cheese and pineapple hedgehogs and treats with your nan, to the exquisite joy of a chip butty covered in vinegar and too much salt in the school canteen on a grey day; this a poignant reminder of why food is such an integral part of our lives and our various cultures.

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27

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

9 8 4 2 6

3

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Highly regarded Eurorepar Car Service Centre, Belbins Garage, is gearing up to mark its 20th anniversary this year, with the team keen to thank Romsey’s motorists for two decades of custom and support.

Established on Belbins Business Park, Romsey, in 2001 by owners Darren Stratton and Ian Morse, Belbin’s Garage has developed a strong reputation for exceptional service and mechanical prowess amongst its loyal customer-base. Priding itself on providing a personal touch, Belbin’s offers drivers a flexible service for small jobs, as well as a collection and delivery service and access to a fleet of courtesy cars. Ian Morse, co-owner of Belbins Garage, said: “We’re proud to have built Belbins Garage to be a trusted member of the local community, helping to keep the town’s drivers on the road. We couldn’t have enjoyed the success we have without our enthusiastic team who work hard to support the business and our customers.

“While we’re delighted to mark our 20th anniversary, we’re always looking ahead to the future to grow and adapt to the market’s needs. On behalf of everyone at Belbins, we want to thank our customers for their support and look forward to maintaining their cars for years to come.”

As a member of the Eurorepar Car Service network – a unique initiative operated by global automotive powerhouse, Stellantis Group – Belbins benefits from the support of a big-name brand while remaining completely independent and community focused.

Nick Taylor, Head of Network and Business Development at Eurorepar Car Service, said: “We’d like to congratulate Ian, Darren and the Belbin’s Garage team on hitting this major milestone. Our independent garages are valued by their communities, and it’s great to see that this feeling is shared by Belbins’ customers in and around Romsey. It’s a pleasure to work with Belbin’s and we look forward to continuing to support them as a valued part of the Eurorepar Car Service network."

Belbins Garage, Unit 4 Belbins Business Park, Cupernham Lane, Romsey SO51 7JF

01794 516 999

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29

Answers Page SPOT THE DIFFERENCE 1. White stripe missing on towel (left) 2. Ribbon colour different on woman’s hat 3. Starfish missing (left of beach ball) 4. Beach panel panel colour change 5. Sunglasses missing next to man (right) 6. Umbrella over man on right edging colour change from red to orange 7. Green dot missing on far right umbrella 8. Table under middle umbrella missing 9. Towel stripes changed from red to blue (2 middle stripes, man on the right) 10. Hair colour change, man on left from black to red 11. Purple flip flops strap colour change from yellow to black 12. Colour of white sunglasses lenses next to woman changed from pink to orange

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

PUB QUIZ 1. Margaret Thatcher 2. Ferrari 3. Ottawa 4. Twenty-four (24). Humans have twelve pairs of ribs / 24 ribs in total 5. Charles Dickens 6. North America and South America 7. Big Friendly Giant 8. The Kaiser Chiefs 9. Do not dry clean 10. No, they consist of fat 11. The Thames 12. It is served with ice 13. Elizabeth Taylor 14. 1024 15. Drew Barrymore 16. Greenland 17. Herbivores 18. German fruit bread (cake) Don’t miss out on the fun, look out for 19. Nike our game pages in every issue!

20. Ed Sheeran

30

ROMSEY TOWN COUNCIL

NEWSLETTER SPRING 2021

MAYORS SPRING MESSAGE Dear Romsey Resident I feel extremely privileged to be able to write this message to the townsfolk of Romsey, once again, as their Town Mayor. We live in uncertain times and I thank my fellow Councillors for placing their trust in me for the coming year.

As I write this, we are still at the early stages of the ‘road map’ out of lockdown and I can only hope that by the time you read it we are able to meet up with family and friends and have a semblance of normality back in our lives.

Firstly, I would like to thank our outgoing Town Mayor, Cllr Janet Burnage, for her two years as Mayor, steering us through uncharted territory and managing to do so with style and a smile.

I would also like to extend my grateful thanks and that of the Town Council to all the volunteers that have made such a difference to so many peoples’ lives since the first lockdown. From delivering food and prescriptions, to phoning to check on someone’s wellbeing, and then as time went on volunteering in their hundreds to help in the vaccination programme. We have all been so lucky to live in a town populated by kindness.

Also, thanks to those who kept us going by working during the lockdowns, the NHS staff, carers, shopworkers, council workers and all others without whom we would not have managed.

This year is going to be different for many of us, events such as the Beggar’s Fair, the Carnival, Romsey Town Council RTC Newsletter SPRING 2021.indd 1

and the Mayor’s Picnic along with many others being postponed or held as virtual events to keep us all safe. We will all miss having these events in our calendars but understand and thank the organisers for thinking of our welfare and safety.

That said, if you are holding an event this year, please invite me as Mayor to come along. I would love to see the many different organisations Romsey has and do my bit to support them as we come out of lockdown.

I’m sure this year will be very different from when I was first Mayor back in 2008, but I know it will be just as special and I look forward to meeting (socially distanced of course) as many people as possible and experiencing once again the kindness of Romsonians.

Karen Dunleavey Romsey Town Mayor

www.romseytc.org.uk

Spring Newsletter 2021 13/04/2021 15:14:18

Introducing Lisa Mortimer MRICS

Romsey Town Centre Manager Hello As part of this newsletter, I thought I would write a few words of introduction, as many of you will not be familiar with me, as much of my 7-month tenure as Romsey Town Centre Manager has been spent under lockdown restrictions.

However, as we move into Spring, there is positivity, with the proposed Government lifting of Coronavirus restrictions, which have shaped so much of our day to day lives so dramatically.

I therefore hope to be able to get out and about in and around the Town and get to know as many of our local businesses as I can.

For my part I am a chartered commercial property surveyor and a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS). I have some 20 years property experience, which I hope will be put to good use as we look to rejuvenate and breathe new life back into our Town Centre and local businesses.

One thing that has struck me particularly throughout this pandemic is the strong support for the “Shop Local, Stay Loyal” message, which has been so important for our local, independent shops and businesses. This message will be just as important as we look towards opening up our Town Centre again and to continue to support our local business community, who have struggled so acutely throughout this crisis.

So how can we do this?

“Bricks and Clicks” The Covid Pandemic has hastened the evolutionary change that was already taking place on the High Street with a move to on-line sales.

According to the Office of National Statistics – “The proportion of on-line retail increased to

2 RTC Newsletter SPRING 2021.indd 2

a record level in January 2021 reaching 35.2% up from 29.6% in December 2020 and was far higher than the 19.5% in January 2020, reflecting the impact the pandemic has had on consumer behaviours.”

This data reinforces the necessity for local business communities to harness this additional marketing/potential on-line sales channel.

My idea was to create a “virtual” High Street to run alongside the bricks and mortar for primarily independent retailers/businesses in Romsey, which will also offer delivery and/or click and collect options Although the Government’s road map currently envisages that all High Street non- essential retail will be able to open from 12th April, Test Valley Borough Council and Romsey Town Council are proposing to develop an on-line digital platform to enable local business to have an on-line presence and to ensure that local residents can continue to support local businesses.

Finally, as the warmer days of Summer arrive, when hopefully restrictions on our lives will be lifted further, it is important for our Town to advertise that it is safe and welcoming in order to rekindle confidence so that residents and visitors are able to enjoy all that our historic Town has to offer. The Town Council in conjunction with the Borough Council are actively looking at ways to achieve this.

We will keep you posted…….

Passenger Lift Installation in Romsey Town Hall It has long been an aspiration to provide easy access to our wonderful Council Chamber. This much loved and atmospheric space is licensed for 150 and is not just used for Council Meetings.

A whole variety of events take place here from weddings to markets, AGM’s to parties.

A four-person, wheelchair plus one, capacity lift is being installed to serve the second floor.

To enable this the existing kitchen, servery and bar are being remodelled and upgraded.

GRANTS

Since the last Newsletter grants have been awarded to: Halterworth Primary School Green Team £250.00 The Office of Dmitrijs Meiksans MYP £250.00 RAODS £250.00 Tree of Life Café £500.00

This builds upon the provision of unisex disabled washroom facilities on the second floor in 2019 and the current upgrade of the ground floor disabled facilities.

We anticipate that all will be operational by 17th May 2021.

If you would like to apply for a grant for your organisation please visit our website www. romseytc.org.uk/grants where you can view application criteria and download the grant application form.

COMMUNITY CINEMA We still have quite a few tickets that have yet to be refunded for performances that were cancelled during 2020.

You can collect your Romsey Community Cinema refund from the Romsey Town Council office which is open Monday to Friday 9am – 3pm. For purchases made via Ticketsource, you will have already received your refund directly

If you would like to find out more then please do email me tcm@ romseytc.org.uk

Further provision is being made to enable access between the stage and Council Chamber for wheelchairs. Ambulant persons will be able to ride to the basement on a chairlift where Romsey Local History Society are based.

from them.

We look forward to sharing films with you again very soon.

FOREIGN PENSION REQUESTS

Lisa Mortimer MRICS Romsey Town Centre Manager

If you have a pension form that requires signature, please contact the Town Council office on 01794 512837 or email info@romseytc.org.uk to arrange a time to

ROMSEY TOWN COUNCIL - SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021

13/04/2021 15:14:18

ROMSEY TOWN COUNCIL - SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021

RTC Newsletter SPRING 2021.indd 3

meet with the Chief Officer who will then verify your pension form. A donation to the Mayor’s Charity for this service would be appreciated.

3 13/04/2021 15:14:18

% ar ng er

cal nal

to ily ey, nd

tly ail ey re m ne an

ve, be to to rs as th ys

21

:14:18

Passenger Lift Installation in Romsey Town Hall It has long been an aspiration to provide easy access to our wonderful Council Chamber. This much loved and atmospheric space is licensed for 150 and is not just used for Council Meetings.

A whole variety of events take place here from weddings to markets, AGM’s to parties.

A four-person, wheelchair plus one, capacity lift is being installed to serve the second floor.

To enable this the existing kitchen, servery and bar are being remodelled and upgraded.

GRANTS

Since the last Newsletter grants have been awarded to: Halterworth Primary School Green Team £250.00 The Office of Dmitrijs Meiksans MYP £250.00 RAODS £250.00 Tree of Life Café £500.00

Further provision is being made to enable access between the stage and Council Chamber for wheelchairs. Ambulant persons will be able to ride to the basement on a chairlift where Romsey Local History Society are based.

This builds upon the provision of unisex disabled washroom facilities on the second floor in 2019 and the current upgrade of the ground floor disabled facilities.

We anticipate that all will be operational by 17th May 2021.

If you would like to apply for a grant for your organisation please visit our website www. romseytc.org.uk/grants where you can view application criteria and download the grant application form.

COMMUNITY CINEMA We still have quite a few tickets that have yet to be refunded for performances that were cancelled during 2020.

You can collect your Romsey Community Cinema refund from the Romsey Town Council office which is open Monday to Friday 9am – 3pm. For purchases made via Ticketsource, you will have already received your refund directly

from them.

We look forward to sharing films with you again very soon.

FOREIGN PENSION REQUESTS If you have a pension form that requires signature, please contact the Town Council office on 01794 512837 or email info@romseytc.org.uk to arrange a time to ROMSEY TOWN COUNCIL - SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021

RTC Newsletter SPRING 2021.indd 3

meet with the Chief Officer who will then verify your pension form. A donation to the Mayor’s Charity for this service would be appreciated.

3 13/04/2021 15:14:18

Romsey Town Hall Our beautiful Council Chamber is the perfect setting for your intimate wedding or civil partnership.

For more details please visit www.romseytyc.org.uk or contact our Events Manager on 01794 512837

RTC Newsletter SPRING 2021.indd 4

13/04/2021 15:14:19

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35

Green Play Five ideas for engaging your kids in environmental activities.

Recycle Start at home with the basics: labelling your bins and sorting through your refuse can actually become a fun game for children, as well as creating awareness around how much waste we use in the home.

Then, once your youngsters have grasped the basic concept you can start tackling recycling on a bigger scale. Picking up litter on a dog walk for example, or even partaking on a community clean-up – an excellent way to meet other budding environmentalists.

Reuse Naturally greenminded kids know better than anyone how useful discarded packaging can be: boxes become rocket ships, empty toilet rolls become pirate-seeking telescopes, and jars are transformed into dazzling tealight holders.

Yet beyond play, we can also teach our children how to minimise waste by choosing the eco-friendly option. Some ecocleaning brands, for example, now offer a reusable option whereby you can refill your bottles in-store.

Grow What better way to learn about planet Earth than when exploring the great outdoors?

For a child, there is very little in life more satisfying than digging

36

through dirt with a beloved parent by their side, a venture made even more rewarding when they eventually get to see the fruits of their labour.

So if you have access to a garden, get planning, then get planting! From easy-to-plant flower bulbs to vegetables

such as tomatoes and runner beans, there are many plants which offer a quick seed-tofruit yield – ideal for impatient children.

Many local councils are now investing in community gardens too, where children can plant, play and learn about all the wormy, muddy joys of composting.

Repurpose A fantastic way to combine environmental fun with

unbridled creativity is to upcycle with your child. Perhaps you’ve an old chest of drawers that needs a new lick of paint or a suitcase that’s begging to be transformed into a unique toybox. Perhaps you want to start smaller by turning a plastic bottle into a birdfeeder, or even a windchime made from used cans.

And for those feeling really creative, why not venture into the world of upcycled clothing? Stained children’s dresses and t-shirts can be tie-dyed using vegetable dye, denim shirts that are too small can become bags or headscarves!

Learn The best part about environmentalism is it’s a journey you and your child can take together. So organise a trip to your local city farm, buy some honey made from local bees, and take a bike ride to school rather than using the car. These are all small steps that will pave the way for the future of your child AND the planet.

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The Adventures of Daichi

The Modern Magazines Camper Van Fish. Daichi loves to go fishing with Grandad… and Grandad loves to go fishing with the family. What better way to celebrate his 86th Birthday, than on the banks of an idyllic pond with all of us together in wonderful sunshine!

So, that is just what we did in May. Todber Manor is where we all met.

Beautiful lakes situated in East Dorset just ten minutes from the quaint town of Shaftesbury. Dad is in his element here. My sister moved into the cottage attached to a farm where her husband grew up, in Margaret Marsh, and this is even closer at just seven minutes away.

The scenery around here is stunning.

Miles of rolling countryside, wildlife and glorious green land with blue sky and feather-like white clouds. It was a real treat. To be honest, I have always enjoyed fishing with Dad. Many, many Sundays were spent on the banks of a local pond up North. I love the serenity, the birds singing, the picnic and the family togetherness that we have all missed so much recently. Here we were,

Grandad catches another one!

38

Daichi... and friends out in fresh air and in great company.

The fish here are huge. Some fishermen stay in bivvies (tents) overnight to fish for the real big carp. Can you imagine sitting outside in all weathers holding your rod (now now…) waiting for that all-important bite and then using all your strength for possibly half an hour or so to land a 40 pound + carp? It is a complete buzz for these guys, a real excitement for those that ‘get the bug’. Better than being 24/7 on a computer I would say. Well, we were not quite up for that, though Daichi would have been very happy to put us up for the night! We must plan our next ‘staycation’ and get the awning out again.

We have really missed that, and so has Daichi.

The fishing at Todber Manor is excellent.

With ten ponds in total I believe, there are lots to choose from. In addition to that there are holiday lets which were currently closed due to the situation, but I am sure they will open soon, if not already. It is a really great location for anyone who likes fishing or even if you

would like a break away. The well-stocked fishing tackle shop caters for all needs too.

Now, every time we go fishing with Grandad, we (well actually Stephen, Hayden and Dad) catch many fish. It looks easy, yet I am not sure why, but any time we have tried this without Grandad we don’t catch anything… just a cold.

Funny that, it must be the better weather on the days we go with Grandad… mmm not sure about that. Grandad has fished all his life and his expertise absolutely makes it look easy. He has a real knack for the game. This time I did some fishing myself and caught a rather nice Mirror Carp. I can fish, but leave it to the boys while my sister and Mum have a chat on the side-lines. Oh yes and take never ending photographs and videos! It is hard work when they are catching lots of fish I have to keep getting up from my comfy, relaxed seat with my all-important coffee in hand. Really! This trip we were lucky enough to spot an egret that gracefully flew in and sat patiently on a small island in the centre of the pond. Delightful to see… and another photo was needed…

Up again… We have to laugh don’t we.

I got one too!

The family... and the cake!

Now Birthdays have to have cake and food (any excuse) and today was no exception. There is the delicious “Lakeside Diner” right here at the ponds!

Perfect. It is an outside eatery with seating and the food is good! Us girls had steak, Hayden had pulled pork, Stephen had a burger and dad had fish and chips (of course!). Susan had also brought a cake and Dad’s highlight, which he said he will never forget, was us all singing Happy Birthday to him with the candles aglow, the sun setting, surrounded by his favourite ponds here in the South. Very special. I am not sure the other fishermen thought the same and the birds may well have wondered what all that screeching was about, but hey hum, we had a fabulous time.

So - many ‘caught fish’ later, well fed, hoarse from singing, and aching from all that getting up and down out of the chair, it was time to say goodbye. Daichi was delighted with the trip. He, and Grandad, grinned from headlight to headlight all the way home. Happy Birthday Dad. With more areas and activities opening up, and a sunny summer (we can but hope) to look forward to, I wonder where Daichi will take us next?

By Debbie Corney

would like a break away. The well-stocked fishing tackle shop caters for all needs too.

Now, every time we go fishing with Grandad, we (well actually Stephen, Hayden and Dad) catch many fish. It looks easy, yet I am not sure why, but any time we have tried this without Grandad we don’t catch anything… just a cold.

Funny that, it must be the better weather on the days we go with Grandad… mmm not sure about that. Grandad has fished all his life and his expertise absolutely makes it look easy. He has a real knack for the game. This time I did some fishing myself and caught a rather nice Mirror Carp. I can fish, but leave it to the boys while my sister and Mum have a chat on the side-lines. Oh yes and take never ending photographs and videos! It is hard work when they are catching lots of fish I have to keep getting up from my comfy, relaxed seat with my all-important coffee in hand. Really! This trip we were lucky enough to spot an egret that gracefully flew in and sat patiently on a small island in the centre of the pond. Delightful to see… and another photo was needed…

Up again… We have to laugh don’t we.

I got one too!

The family... and the cake!

Now Birthdays have to have cake and food (any excuse) and today was no exception. There is the delicious “Lakeside Diner” right here at the ponds!

Perfect. It is an outside eatery with seating and the food is good! Us girls had steak, Hayden had pulled pork, Stephen had a burger and dad had fish and chips (of course!). Susan had also brought a cake and Dad’s highlight, which he said he will never forget, was us all singing Happy Birthday to him with the candles aglow, the sun setting, surrounded by his favourite ponds here in the South. Very special. I am not sure the other fishermen thought the same and the birds may well have wondered what all that screeching was about, but hey hum, we had a fabulous time.

So - many ‘caught fish’ later, well fed, hoarse from singing, and aching from all that getting up and down out of the chair, it was time to say goodbye. Daichi was delighted with the trip. He, and Grandad, grinned from headlight to headlight all the way home. Happy Birthday Dad. With more areas and activities opening up, and a sunny summer (we can but hope) to look forward to, I wonder where Daichi will take us next?

By Debbie Corney 39

Calling a spade a spade Your ultimate guide to the tools your garden will thank you for digging out this summer.

SPADE (AND SHOVEL) Tough, unrelenting, sharp at the base, angular and with ledges for your feet so you can push down deep into the soil, the spade is the ultimate garden tool.

The shovel is, in many ways, the refined cousin.

More rounded, it comes in different materials and caters for a wider range of jobs (such as moving snow), given that digging deep into the earth is not the primary goal.

FORK (AND TROWEL) These two work perfectly together in removing soil and plant matter from smaller areas, such as flower beds and pots.

HOE A simple metal plate at the end of a stick, the hoe is used to remove surface debris in small areas. It nudges just under the surface in scraping away leaves, small weeds and bits of dead plant matter, leaving your soil turned over and looking fresh.

LAWN EDGER Perhaps the most satisfying garden tool of them all, the lawn edger drives down into

40

lawn edges that are suspended above then beds, leaving an impeccable line between the two.

without anything left behind.

The extended handle limits bending down, too.

COBRAHEAD WEEDER The cobrahead weeder looks like a torture implement dating back to the medieval ages, yet its popularity is now only coming to the fore. It uses a cultivating blade at the end of a long, hooked handle, meaning it can plough furrows, remove weeds from underneath and even hack its way through thatch.

CLAW WEEDER This weeder offers a pincertype movement at the end, meaning it grabs right at the base of the weed, yanking it out of the ground by the roots

RAKE From debris to leaves, removing fruit from beneath trees to perhaps just picking up weed seedlings so as to allow water to permeate back into the soil, the humble rake actually comes in many different forms and will serve you well all year round.

PRUNER Modern pruners have become real technical works of art, with adjustable settings that will shape to the size of your hand. Look for a pair that have cushioned grips around the handle, to save on late-afternoon hand ache!

PRUNING SAW The pruning saw does the same job as a pruner, albeit with a bit more strength and power. Capable of tackling branches without the need for a full-on saw, it’s a compact yet extremely powerful piece of kit.

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You’re The Mechanic The top five car faults you can diagnose yourself.

Error light on dashboard Dashboard warning messages are very often triggered by faulty sensors rather than something actually going wrong under the bonnet, and getting a garage to ‘clear the fault’ may mean paying up to £100 without anything mechanical happening.

bonnet, pull out the oil dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, remove it again and check the level.

Buy your own scan tool or code reader and you can then do your own diagnostic sleuth-work; then consult the internet and fix the problem.

Oil warning light - When an oil light shows simply open the

If the oil level isn’t within the required marks or notches on the dipstick, a trip to your local petrol station – possibly on foot!

– will have the problem solved in no time.

Bad bulbs - A blown bulb, or one that blinks rapidly, will always need to be replaced. In most cars, you should be able to access the headlamp unit quite easily, with replacements purchased off the

internet for a fraction of the cost you’d pay at the garage.

In the case of a dim headlamp, the fix can be as simple as corrosion building up on the ground connection.

The WD-40 trick - Finally, from key and key fob issues to slow-moving electric windows, from seats that won’t recline properly right through to cosmetic scratches and scrapes, a £5 investment in a can of WD-40 can save you thousands.

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45

Dazzling Damselflies!

Watching damselflies dance through the air is one of the quintessential experiences of summer, and something many of us look forward to every year. Garden ponds are important habitats for damselflies, and creating even a small body of water on your patch is a great way to attract them to your home. You can find lots of helpful guidance on making a wildlife pond at www.wildaboutgardens.org.uk Here are some damselflies to look out for as the weather gets warmer...

Beautiful Demoiselle Beautiful demoiselles are large damselflies, usually found on small, fast-flowing rivers.

Males have metallic blue bodies and striking, dark wings, and they show them off with a flitting, fluttering flight in a bid to attract mates. Females are slightly different with brown wings and green bodies.

Common Blue Common blue damselflies are easy to find as they are drawn to almost any water body – they are often the dominant damselfly species at large lakes and reservoirs. Males are pale blue with bands of black along the body, and females are either blue or a dull shade of green.

Azure Damselfly Azure damselflies are very common around

Banded Demoiselle

Photo: Mark Hamblin

most water bodies, and can also be found in grassland and woodland. They are also a familiar garden resident, particularly visible in the warmer months. These damselflies are pale blue with bands of black along the body, and the defining black segment on their back is U-shaped.

Banded Demoiselle Banded demoiselles are large damselflies that live along the edges of slow-flowing rivers and canals among lush, damp vegetation. They can also be found near still ponds and lakes, though typically those near to rivers. Their name derives from the distinctive ‘fingerprint’ mark on the males’ wings.

We were delighted to see southern damselflies thriving at Hockley Meadows nature reserve last summer, and we hope to see them again this year. Through careful management, we have created an environment in which these rare and beautiful damselflies can thrive. We couldn’t have done this, or secured Hockley Meadows at all, if it weren’t for the support of the community and generous gifts in wills from local wildlife lovers.

Alice Ashcroft

Common Blue Damselfly Photo: Donna Apsey

46

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Keeping Your Identity Safe While everyone is worried about the coronavirus, cyber criminals have seen this as an opportunity.

In emails and on the phone, they may claim to have a ‘cure’ for the virus, offer financial rewards, or encourage you to donate to worthy causes.

Like many scams, these criminals are preying on real-world concerns to try and trick you into interacting. They may also mimic real NHS or Gov. uk emails or text messages.

The message might be from a company you don’t normally receive communications from, or someone you do not know. You may just have a hunch. If you are suspicious, you should report it.

If you have received an email which you’re not quite sure about, forward it to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS) at report@phishing.gov.uk Suspicious text messages should be forwarded to 7726. This free-of-charge short code enables your provider to investigate the origin of the text and take action, if found to be malicious.

These scam messages can be very hard to spot.

They are designed to get you to react without thinking.

Criminals want to convince you to do something which they can use to their advantage.

In a scam email or text message, their goal is often to convince you to click a link. Once clicked, you may be sent to a dodgy website where you may be requested to enter your log in details and password or you could unknowingly download viruses onto your computer or steal your passwords and personal information.

This is intended for general guidance only. In all cases specific advice should be sought.

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47

Pet Sounds Dogs and cats? It’s all so 1990s. We’re in a new era of cool home companions, so grab that cockroach and come along for the ride.

Sugar glider According to some, hamsters are so passé these days.

Instead, people have switched their attentions to sugar gliders, for their incredible affection, curiosity and ability to win over everyone in the family, from adults and children to other pets.

and the resulting nip is only akin to a bee sting. It’s not recommended that they’re handled, though they are so docile that many owners do.

Pygmy goat Got a spare bit of land and in need of a lawnmower? A pygmy goat is what you’re

This marsupial even has a cool name, a reference to their preference for sweet tastes (such as sap and nectar) and their ability to glide through the air.

What’s not to like?!

Hedgehog Having an outdoor pet such as a hedgehog is a great idea.

You are keeping it in its natural habitat, and this marvellous, charming creature is friendly, inquisitive and often in need of protection, as his prickly exterior will tell you!

48

marvellous livery will amaze and inspire younger minds.

Known as the ‘King of Chill’, he’s happy enough being handled and will often lounge about the place with all the pomp and performance of a character from a Quentin Tarantino movie.

Scorpion For the more adventurous, a pet scorpion can be fascinating to have around. These talented yet highly protective creatures have intrigued leftfield pet owners for years, and it is the danger that maintains their popularity.

after. Self-exercising and impossibly cute, they are, however, extremely timeconsuming, needy, and can be very expensive to maintain.

They also must live in the company of other goats, so if you’re hoping to get just one to smother in your love, think again!

That said, the Emperor Scorpion will only pinch or sting when it feels wholly under attack,

Bearded dragon This friendly reptile (real name Pogona) is a lizard whose

Capybara The capybara is a much bigger, slightly uglier guinea pig, who is friendly, highly sociable, harmless and full of life. These animals do require a lot of space to move around in… oh, and a swimming pool (they can hold their breath for over five minutes underwater).

Chinchilla Cute, clean, timid, small and completely odourless, the chinchilla takes a fair bit of maintenance, but is surely the most adorable of the rodent family… just don’t mention that fact to the capybara you have in the bathtub!

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h lt a e H & wellbeing Why getting your head down may be the best thing you can do for your health and wellbeing.

Sleep: the science We all know how valuable a good night’s sleep is… or rather, how bad we feel when we don’t get one!

The value of rest is recognisable in the fact we spend a third of our lives in bed. And sure enough, most of us can reel off a good number of the benefits of sleep – sharpness, mood enhancement, the fending off of low moods, a lowering of blood pressure, better immunisation, improved memory, stress reduction and even maintaining of body weight.

The environment First, consider what’s around you.

Studies have shown that smartphones and device usage is on the increase and it’s the ‘blue light’ 50

emissions from these that can delay the release of sleep-inducing melatonin, as well as resetting the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm). Moving away from screens earlier – scientists recommend at least an hour before you plan on going to sleep – will limit the bouts of LCD exposure which excite brain stimulators, therefore helping you maximise sleep efficiency.

Remember as well the need to moderate room temperature, as well dimming lighting and removing excess noise around you. And while the act of sleeping is more important than anything you may consume in the lead-up to it, it goes without saying there are certain food and drink items that will hamper effective rest. While alcohol may enable you to drop off quicker, it’s disruptive to your sleep in the second half of the night, not least if you are in a state of dehydration.

Consider as well the impact sugar, carbonated drinks and caffeine might have on the body at a time when it is trying to wind down. An old favourites such as Horlicks, with a soothing malt content, has been scientifically proven to aid rest.

The routine… and a plan Scientific studies have shown that regularity and repetition is the important where sleep is concerned. Your body feeds off continuity and structure in its waking hours, so why should things be any different when it comes to sleep? Sleep doctors have begun recommending a trial week of ‘regular as clockwork’ bedtimes, with long rests and the adoption of healthy habits. They then invite people to see if they feel improved in all those physical and psychological aspects. In many cases, the results have gone to show why getting your head down may be the best thing you can do not just for your health and wellbeing, but your sanity too.

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51

A casual cyclist’s review of an electric bike Cycling up hills is not exactly my idea of a fun past time. My poor road bicycle has been relegated to the shed, only seeing action during the nicest of weather.

Electric bicycles are not a new concept to me, but I was never really convinced they would benefit me, or if they would take away the exercise element by doing all the work for me.

So, it was a surprise when I found myself road testing an electric bicycle from Hampshire eBikes on a sunny a spring day. It was a Batribike Omega in British racing green. The first thing that struck me was how streamlined the bike was.

Enjoying the step-through design I was surprised by the weight of the bike. It’s reassuringly sturdy but much lighter compared to my old Raleigh Chiltern which only had 3 gears. In comparison, the Omega boasted 7 speed Shimano Nexus hub gears which provided a smooth and enjoyable ride.

The walk assist helps you set off even before you start pedaling.

Using the pedal assist is just as easy as changing gears. The level of assist can be increased at the touch of a button, so quickly becomes intuitive.

The most impressive part for me was that I still had to put in work.

You cannot benefit from the assistance the motor provides if you don’t pedal. The electric power does make it easier to ride longer and go further. I am sure this is only increasing my exercise.

Going up the hills I laughed in glee! There are some hills where most would see no shame in getting off to walk up, but not with this bicycle.

Whether cycling through town, or around the hilly country roads, I felt confident that this bicycle would get me there - and in style.

So, am I convinced by electric bicycles? Absolutely, just don’t tell my road bike in the shed…

The featured eBike was a Batribike Omega, from £1399, supplied

by Hampshire eBikes of Andover. Call 01264 316143 or visit hampshire-ebikes.co.uk.

by Hannah-Mae Trow

Photo: Oliver Scott-Ison

Make the most of your staycation with an eBike • Free advice • Test rides • Servicing and repairs

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Lockdown had you ‘climbing the walls’?

We’ve got your back. Get your strength back now! Improve your health and boost your immune system with Curves.

We are back and ready to help you to renew your health goals.

Did you know regular Strength Training can help prevent the natural loss of lean muscle mass and boost your immune system? Which is exactly what you need to keep healthy and strong.

A large study, published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine has found that patients with COVID-19 who were consistently inactive during the two years preceding the pandemic were more likely to be admitted to hospital and to require intensive care than patients who had consistently met physical activity guidelines.

Physical inactivity was the strongest risk factor across all outcomes, compared with the commonly cited modifiable risk factors, including smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and cancer.

At Curves you can: • Get the body moving and the calories burning and reconnect with a stronger, healthier you.

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55

Mo isfont Walk Part 2

Start here This walk is about 6.5 miles. If it has been raining it will be very muddy, so you will definitely need wellies or walking boots.

On the Romsey to Stockbridge Road, I parked my car in the layby before the Bear & Ragged Staff. You would then walk up to the pub and turn left to Moffisfont and walk until reaching the railway line and turn left where you see the footpath sign, the road is busy so be careful.

I am sure that you won’t be able to resist taking a moment to adore the little lambs in the field opposite. Follow the path and when you get to the cross-path go straight on, this will take you to a stile, if you have a dog, there is a space for it to go through to make it easier. Enjoy all the forget-menots along the way. When you reach the road you will see the sign, go straight ahead. This view is quite wonderous. It is, I’ve been told, “a man-made lake”. It is amazing, They have planted lots of trees so it is going to look spectacular when they grow. On the other side there are more sheep … walk up until you reach the top. Don’t forget to look down over the view, it’s very lovely. When you reach the stile go across. There is a sign here re. dogs, ‘you must keep your dog/s on a lead’. Go straight ahead until you reach the top and go straight along. The signs will direct you across the field and then bear right. You are missing out the middle of the field. You will probably have noticed the smell at this point, it’s Brussel sprouts growing! At the end, there is another sign, follow that towards the right until you see another sign to take you down to the left.

The uneven surface has to be navigated,

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go down until you reach the footpath and turn right. This is so pretty for about half a mile, so enjoy! It will bring you out by the railway station and The Mill Arms, you could always stop for a break here, if you wanted to? Go past the station, up the hill until you reach the footpath sign by the prettiest of cottages. When you reach halfway up the hill, I thoroughly recommend you look back at the view, as it is amazing! The day I did the walk there were year old calves in the field looking very curious at me. At the top, it’s worth stopping by the tree to take in the views.

You could be anywhere and we are so lucky to have this on our doorstep. Carry straight on and you will reach the stile.

Turn right and follow the little path that brings you to Mottisfont Social Club. Turn right and follow the road past Mottisfont House, until you reach the footpath sign on your right. If you have walked my previous Mottisfont walk, this next part will seem familiar. Again, if it’s been raining this is extremely muddy. When you reach the end, turn right … this is such a pretty little bit of the walk. Go past the lovely house by the River Test. Carry on until you reach the sign on the right and cross the field where there are usually sheep with their babies.

Definitely worth taking photos. When you reach the end, enjoy the view of the River Test., it is beautiful! I can’t just walk past … it will definitely clear your mind. Turn right and follow the path until you get to the Road. I definitely would not cross here as it is very busy, but I usually cross a bit further down, then it is about ¾ mile until you reach the pub.

I hope you enjoy the walk, please let me know how you got on.

Wrien by Rachel Cardy

Finish here

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Creamy Courgette Sausage Penne Introduction

Simple and flavoursome with a generous serving of veg, this is one of those weeknight meals ideal for when you want to feel satisfied but also a little virtuous.

Ingredients (serves four) • 6 Cumberland sausages • 400g penne pasta • 3 cloves of garlic (crushed or diced) • 1 red onion (peeled and sliced) • 1 large courgette (grated) • 250ml crème fraiche • 1 tbsp dried chilli flakes • 60g grated parmesan or other hard Italian cheese • Handful of chopped fresh parsley

Method 1. While waiting for a large pot of water to boil, prepare the sausages by squeezing the meat gently from their casings - discard the skin. Heat a widebased pan with a tablespoon of oil and at a medium to hot heat add the sausage meat and cook until browned (6-7 minutes) breaking the meat up with a wooden spoon as you go. Remove and set aside the cooked sausage meat.

2. Put the pasta in the boiling water. Next, lower the heat to medium on your nowempty frying pan before gently sautéing the garlic and chilli flakes - add more oil if necessary. After one minute, add the red onion and grated courgette, frying till softened.

3. Return your sausage meat to the pan with your onion and courgette, along with the crème fraiche and two thirds of the grated cheese. Next add your drained pasta along with a splash of the pasta water and simmer for two minutes until everything is combined and your sauce becomes silky and rich.

Serve your pasta in bowls and garnish with your remaining cheese and the chopped parsley.

Top Tips • For perfect pasta always use a generous-sized pot, salt your water (it should almost be as salty as seawater) and avoid overcooking – al dente is the authentic Italian way!

• Pasta is endlessly versatile, so feel free to riff on the ingredients to suit your taste… swap cream cheese for crème fraiche, red onion for white onion and courgette for any vegetable you fancy, from

60

chopped kale to tenderstem broccoli, or even Borlotti beans.

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Advertisers Index

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

Accountants

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

Stone Osmond 41 ...........................................................................................................................................................

Sarah Stokes Medical Pedicures54 .....................................................................................

Records Wanted 13 ...........................................................................................................................................................

The Ferndown Chiropody Clinic 51

Appliance Repairs

Plumbers

Funeral Directors .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

T.A.Spacagna 35 .....................................................................................

D&D Plumbing Services 59 ...........................................................................................................................................................

AH Cheater & Sons 42 .....................................................................................

G.E Harding and Sons Limited 42 .....................................................................................

NO.1 PHD 2 Bathrooms Furniture .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Ocean Bathrooms 41 Residential Care Homes ...........................................................................................................................................................

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

Swan Systems Furniture Ltd 25 .....................................................................................

Abbotswood Care 64 Bereavement Support .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Butterflies Bereavement 42 Garage Doors

Roofing Services

Bicycle Sales

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

61 .....................................................................................

Bespoke Roofing 11 ...........................................................................................................................................................

Garolla Holdings Limited 61 .....................................................................................

Central Point Services Ltd 44 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Hampshire eBikes 52 ...........................................................................................................................................................

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

Two Solutions Roofing 9 .....................................................................................

Work Smart Roofing 3 Builders

Garage Services JS Building Services .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

35 Solicitors ...........................................................................................................................................................

Belbins Garage 29 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

SB Renovations 28 ...........................................................................................................................................................

Greatbridge Motor Services Ltd 45 .....................................................................................

Bells Solicitors 47 ...........................................................................................................................................................

New Forest 4x4 Services Ltd 17 Cameras ...........................................................................................................................................................

Premier Car Care 43 Taxi Services .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Rocky Rock Cameras 43 ...........................................................................................................................................................

ReversePark 35 .....................................................................................

Abbey Cars 49 Cleaning Services

Garden Services Travel Advisors .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Cookerburra 49 ...........................................................................................................................................................

Barker & Geary Ltd 23 .....................................................................................

Brookland Travel Ltd 23 ...........................................................................................................................................................

C.P. Garden Care 59 Computer Services ...........................................................................................................................................................

Romsey Stump Grinding & 61 Tree Surgeons .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Widenet Computer Services Ltd49 Landscaping .....................................................................................

Soli-Tree Arborist 13 ...........................................................................................................................................................

Romsey Stump Grinding, 59 Conservatory Insulation Landscaping & Tree Surgery TV Sales & Servicing Services

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

Tass Romsey 43 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Greenspace Uk Ltd 37

Gyms & Exercise Groups

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

Curves - Romsey 53 Waste Services

Dentists

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S.E.S Environmental Ltd 25 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Lowen Dental Spa 7,54

Home Care Services

Drainage Services

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Apex Prime Care 17 Will Writing Services

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

Dorset & Wight Wills 55 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

NO.1 PHD 2

Memorial Stonemasons

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

43 Windows, Doors & ...........................................................................................................................................................

RGR Memorials Ltd 59 Conservatories .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

County Block Paving 45 .....................................................................................

Double Glazing Repair UK 43 Mobility Products & .....................................................................................

Entire Group Home 15,27 Events Services .....................................................................................

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

Hampshire Country & Garden 8 ...........................................................................................................................................................

A to B Mobility 54 .....................................................................................

Greenspace Uk Ltd 37 Festival .....................................................................................

Outlook Window Systems Ltd 63 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Park Proms 20-21

Driveways

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Input Joinery - Portrait ad 2015 - outlined.indd 1

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