The Lyndhurst Directory - February/March 2022

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DIRECTORY

FEB/MAR 2022

Sydenhams, your local independent supplier of Kitchens & Bathrooms with a network of inspiring local showrooms across Dorset, Hampshire, Somerset, Wiltshire & the Isle of Wight!

Visit your local showroom at Rushington Business Park, Chapel Lane, to explore our wide selection of Kitchen & Bathroom displays, from modern to traditional styles, whatever your budget, our friendly staff will help find your perfect match.

We can also offer you a FREE Kitchen & Bathroom Design Service!

Call us today on 023 8086 5046

www.sydenhams.co.uk

Rushington Business Park, Chapel Lane, Totton, Southampton, SO40 9AH 2

To advertise in this magazine, call 023 8065 9309

Expert Service for Domestic Natural Gas & LPG Appliances Installation, Maintenance And Cover Plans Our Services Include: • Homeowner Cover Plans • Annual Servicing • Fault Finding & Repair • Installation of New Systems • Landlord Safety Inspections • LPG fired boilers and systems • Plumbing & Bathrooms • Free, No Obligation Quotations

Contact us: T: 023 80283161 E: gtec@gas-technique.co.uk W: www.gas-technique.co.uk 9 Oak Close, Lyndhurst, SO43 7EF

G E Peel & J W Sizer, Partners of Gas Technique Follow us:

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THE LYNDHURST Directory

Edition 73

So, we made it through January! These certainly are interesting times and I think it is crucial we all help each other as much as possible. The news is full of accusations, problems and negativity. Let’s not allow ourselves to be brought down with it. A smile can make all the difference. Saying Hello to passers-by could make someone’s day.

A friendly phone call to a friend or family member may be just what they need. Let’s start a campaign to, every day, make someone else smile. How about it?

Our loyal advertisers could really help you improve your home, garden or indeed have a treat for yourself. They definitely smile when you call them, as they love to help you. When you have good news about any of our advertisers, please let me know. I could print it in the magazine for others to read! Let’s be positive about our local trades and services – they are here for you.

14th February is Valentine’s Day of course, so what a great excuse to make another smile with a card, flowers or indeed just a hug! We have all been so lacking those all-important hugs recently.

Here is a big hug from me to you. I thank you for all your loyal support of our local trades. Have a wonderful month of February and let’s look forward to the Spring, which is not that far away.

Very Best Wishes,

Advertise with us Take your business to new heights with our affordable advertising packages! Supply your own artwork or use our in-house design and brand expert. To chat to Debbie or the sales team, give us a call:

023 8065 9309

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

enquiries@modernmagazines.co.uk Copy deadline for April edition: 7th March 2022 DISCLAIMER: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that data in this publication is accurate, the publisher cannot accept any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. The Lyndhurst Directory does not officially endorse any advertising material included within the publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in ant retrieval systems or transmitted in any form, without prior permission of the publisher.

A publication by

Debbie, Stephen, Hayden & Daichi 4

Are your automated gates an open or shut case?

We can service, maintain and repair existing automated gates of virtually any make & design.

• CAME Safe approved installers • Automatic gate installations & repairs • Regular service schedules or one off We are also fully qualified electricians and can undertake all kinds of electrical installations, inspections and repairs.

Tel: 01425 477943 1 Stag Business Park, Christchurch Rd, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 3AS www.gle-uk.co.uk Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

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How to identify the UK’s five owls Owls are among our most captivating birds and, with a good view, are easily distinguished from other UK birds. But how to tell one owl from another? Here’s a guide to the UK’s five resident species:

Barn owl A very pale, slender owl, typically white on the underparts and golden-brown with grey markings on the upperparts. It has a white, heartshaped facial disk with dark eyes. Usually seen over grassland or farmland at dawn and dusk, though can be seen at night or even during the day.

Its call resembles eerie squeals and a shrieking ‘shreeee’.

Tawny owl A mostly brown owl with a large, rounded head.

Slightly larger than a barn owl and usually seen in woodland. Plumage is mottled brown but can vary from greyish to reddish brown.

In flight, it shows broad, rounded wings and flies with quick wingbeats in long, straight glides.

The tawny’s rich vocal repertoire includes a short ‘ke-wik’ contact call and a quavering ‘hoo, huhooo’ advertising call.

Short-eared owl A sandy-brown owl similar in size to a tawny, but with longer wings. It has a streaked breast, but a pale, un-marked belly with thick dark barring on the tail and piercing yellow eyes.

In flight, it shows long, narrow wings that are slightly longer and slimmer than long-eared owls, with black wingtips. Flies with slow wingbeats and wavering glides.

Long-eared owl This streaky brown owl looks very similar to a short-eared owl but has darker feathers and less of a yellow hue. The facial disk is buff with a welldefined blackish border and white ‘eyebrows’ extending towards the beak. It has deep orange eyes and long ‘ear-tufts’ atop the head.

In flight, it’s tricky to tell from the short-eared owl.

Slightly shorter and more blunt-tipped wings, with fine black barring on the wingtips and no white trailing edge to the upper wing.

Males advertise with deep, soft hoots without inflection given every few seconds, while females have a more nasal call.

Little owl A small owl with a flattened crown. The upperparts are dark brown with whitish streaks and spots, with whitish underparts featuring bold brown streaks. Facial disk is greyish brown with prominent whitish ‘eyebrows’ giving a stern expression. Eyes are yellow.

Flies with a fast, bounding flight like a thrush.

Hunts by swooping from perches but will also run across ground to pursue prey.

The little owl’s various calls include a fast ‘chi-chi-chi’ alarm call, a low-pitched hoot and a mewling call.

Barn Owl Photo: Tony Matthews

Males perform display flights at breeding grounds, giving a fast series of deep hoots and short, quick wing-claps. Other calls include rapid, rasping barks when alarmed.

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New garden waste subscription year We will be starting the 2022/23 subscription year for existing customers of our garden waste collection service on Monday 4 April 2022.

Subscribers to the service received a reduced number of collections for the 2021/22 subscription year, due to ongoing staff shortages. In light of this, all current garden waste customers will be given a discount on the new renewal price for the 2022/23 subscription.

Cllr Steve Davies, NFDC portfolio holder for Environment and Coastal Services, said, “We would like to thank our garden waste customers for their support and patience, and apologise for any inconvenience service disruptions have caused.

We’re pleased to be starting the 2022/23 subscription year in April and will be providing customers who renew their subscription with a discount.”

We will be writing to existing customers in February updating on the frequency of garden waste collections, how subscriptions can be renewed, and how discounts for the 2022/23 subscription year will be provided.

There will also be information for customers wishing to not renew their subscription, who will be eligible for a refund.

Garden waste customers can find their collection dates for February on the Council website.

We are unlikely to be able to accept new garden waste customers or sell additional bags until July 2022.

As communicated in December 2021, four-weekly collections will continue from Monday 10 January. The delayed return to fortnightly garden waste collections is in line with the council’s contingency plan, approved in November 2021. The contingency plan was created to ensure the collection of clear and black sacks from households can be carried out during periods of staff shortages.

We are working to restart fortnightly garden waste collections mid-March 2022. This will be dependent on staffing levels improving.

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CARPET & FABRIC CARE Residential & Commercial

We provide one of the best professional Carpet & Fabric cleaning systems.

Wet clean or Dry clean • Carpets • Rugs • Upholstery • Cushions • Mattresses • Caravans & Motorhomes

023 8104 0185 • 07770 792361 clean-u-up@hotmail.com

Contact Chris for a free estimate and advice. We have full liability insurance.

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Puzzle Page

Quick Crossword 1

Across Clues: 1. Apparent (8)

14. Behaving stupidly (7)

7. Sergeant (5)

17. Spoken (4)

8. Precious stone (7)

18. Large tent (7)

9. Applying heat to ore (7)

21. Ugly creature (7)

10. Unemployed (4)

22. Particular requirement (5)

12. Wellbeing (7)

23. Expression of approval (8)

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#012

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5

6

7 8 9 10 11

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Down Clues: 1. Black and white bird (6)

11. Conclusion (7)

2. Obscure (8)

13. Almond biscuits (8)

3. Unsuccessful (4)

14. Pale, oval nuts (6)

4. Balancing (6)

15. Immune (6)

5. Gravel (4)

16. More than one (6)

6. Guy ___ Australian actor (6)

19. Competition (4)

7. Nail resin (7)

20. ___ Kournikova Former Tennis player (4)

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Guess the Love Song

Word Ladder

Make your way from LOVE to WARM by changing one letter on each step to make a new word!

LOVE

WARM ANSWERS: (LOVE, MOVE, MORE, WORE, WORM, WARM)

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1.

‘And I didn’t want to write a song, ‘cause I didn’t want anyone thinking I still care.’

2.

‘Like a river flows, surely to the sea…’

3.

‘Say you don’t need no diamond ring and I’ll be satisfied’

4.

‘Love can touch us one time’

5.

‘And I said, Romeo take me somewhere we can be alone’

6.

‘My worst distraction, my rhythm and blues’

7.

‘Well open up your mind and see like me’

8.

‘The one you should call, was standing there all along’

9.

‘You know I’m just a fool who’s willing to sit around and wait for you’

10. ‘Remember to let her into your heart, then you can start to make it better’

To advertise in this magazine, call 023 8065 9309

Your Local Specialist.

Windows & Doors • Conservatories Garden Rooms • Repairs & Renovations Providing a comprehensive selection of beautiful, energy efficient windows and doors.

Whether you’re building a new home, remodeling, adding-on or simply renovating, we will work with you, your architect or your builder every step of the way to ensure your utmost satisfaction.

All products are available in either timber, aluminium or uPVC.

01590 682269 info@coastaldoorswindows.co.uk www.coastaldoorswindows.co.uk

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Spring into life with a good read The final bitter throes of winter will soon pass, so how about some optimistic, non-fiction reading as February comes into view?

Books Do Furnish a Life by Richard Dawkins Including conversations with Neil DeGrasse Tyson, Steven Pinker, Matt Ridley; Books Do Furnish a Life is divided by theme, including celebrating nature, exploring humanity, and interrogating faith, bringing together Richard Dawkins’ forewords, afterwords and introductions to the work of some of the leading thinkers of our age. Published by Penguin on February 10th Small Island by Phillip Parker The shape and location of Britain’s landmass has not always been the same, with an identity that’s always been on the move.

But, by knowing more about the 12 pivotal moments that occurred over a 2,000-year period, we can not only gain a full sense of our British history, but also an understanding of where we are heading, and that’s what Philip Parker reveals brilliantly across 12 defining maps. Published by Michael Joseph on February 17th A Bit of Me: From Basildon to Broadway by Denise Van Outen Denise Van Outen, original 90s ‘ladette’, West End star and primetime TV

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favourite, reveals for the first time the true story of grit and graft beneath the famous Essex sparkle.

In this refreshingly candid memoir, Denise speaks openly and sensitively about her rollercoaster career, from The Big Breakfast in her early twenties to a decade grafting through theatre jobs and children’s TV shows. She describes her challenges offscreen and behind the headlines, as her heart was broken in a very public relationship, with her every move printed in the tabloids thanks to her phone being tapped.

Moving to the US to play Roxie Hart in Chicago was a lifechanging experience, restoring the star’s ability to confront and move on from self-doubt, betrayal, invasions of privacy and professional struggles.

Published by Ebury on March 3rd

What’s Black & White & Read All Over by Gyles Brandreth So… what is black and white and read all over?

An embarrassed penguin, a sunburnt elephant, a newspaper!

The reaction to these jokes can circumnavigate the whole spectrum of comedy, from hearty chortles to room-filling groans.

In many senses, writer, broadcaster and former politician Gyles Brandreth is going for the latter in this collection with a smorgasbord of some of the best and worst jokes ever (plus a few riddles to keep readers on their toes).

From ‘Knock, knock’ to ‘Waiter waiter’, with some funny elephants and giraffes thrown in for good measure, there’s also a bit of expert joke advice, so you can show others just how funny you can be! Or not…

Published by Penguin on March 3rd

02382 125591 contact@homesofhampshire.co.uk www.homesofhampshire.co.uk

Independent and local New Forest Estate Agent We work with a smaller number of clients to keep our service personal

We are a relationship based Estate Agent, we love talking property, and enjoy helping people sell their home quickly!

Call Jane or Peter Johnson to discuss your property needs!

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QUIRKY FACTS

by Mica Bale Where did January go? It seems like no time at all has passed since that month had just arrived and we were delving into another fistful of fun facts to get us through the cold winter months. Now the shortest month of the year is here and hopefully soon spring will be upon us. Until then, why not enjoy another handful of Hampshire’s quirky facts?

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As a quintessential English county, it is no secret that Hampshire’s roots entwine deeply with that of the cricketing world. Yet, did you know that England’s oldest continuously used cricket ground is in Hampshire?

Hartley Wintney has had cricket at its heart for more than 250 years and true to English form, the village green and ground is overlooked by a charming country pub, perfectly named The Cricketers public house.

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Although Chawton is best associated with Jane Austen and her brother who later would come to inherit Chawton House, have you visited the Chawton Library, situated in the fine country house?

PHOTO: PORTELLO PHOTOGRAPHY Thought to contain thousands of different books and works, the library is said to contain books that do not exist anywhere else and champions female authors through the ages.

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Did you know that Beaulieu’s Palace House was one of the very first private country houses to open for the public to view and this year celebrates 70 years since it was officially opened?

The beautiful palace settled in the New Forest was opened in 1952 as a long term way to generate funds to keep the house from ruining. Although not the very first private home to be opened to the public, certainly Palace House was among the very first and set a precedent for country houses today to be enjoyed and preserved for future generations!

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Did you know that one of the greatest artists of the second world war period was a Hampshire local? Although not born in the county, Richard Eurich is acclaimed for his role as war artist to the Admiralty. He also spent much of his time in the 1930s painting Hythe where he was living and also around Southampton. Although not the only artist who would paint dramatic historic moments in the second world war, his style was noted for capturing the atmosphere of each scene, earning praise from the likes of Sir Winston Churchill himself!

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Did you know one of the very last people to be killed in a duel on English soil was a Hampshire native? James Alexander Seton would go down in the history books for his tragic demise and yet during his life, he was a native of Fordingbridge and the son of a Colonel.

The duel was the result of Seton pursuing the wife of Lieutenant Henry Hawkey until the situation culminated into a public outburst which ultimately led to the duel. On the day, once 15 paces had been measured, both men fired - Seton missed and Hawkey’s gun misfired.

This could have been the end of the matter however Hawkey insisted on another round which eventually saw Seton as the fallen, eventually dying. His funeral was a big event with everyone in his home village of Fordingbridge reportedly in attendance before he was buried next to his father’s grave.

ENJOY THIS FEATURE IN EVERY ISSUE!

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Did you know that Beaulieu’s Palace House was one of the very first private country houses to open for the public to view and this year celebrates 70 years since it was officially opened?

The beautiful palace settled in the New Forest was opened in 1952 as a long term way to generate funds to keep the house from ruining. Although not the very first private home to be opened to the public, certainly Palace House was among the very first and set a precedent for country houses today to be enjoyed and preserved for future generations!

4

Did you know that one of the greatest artists of the second world war period was a Hampshire local? Although not born in the county, Richard Eurich is acclaimed for his role as war artist to the Admiralty. He also spent much of his time in the 1930s painting Hythe where he was living and also around Southampton. Although not the only artist who would paint dramatic historic moments in the second world war, his style was noted for capturing the atmosphere of each scene, earning praise from the likes of Sir Winston Churchill himself!

5

Did you know one of the very last people to be killed in a duel on English soil was a Hampshire native? James Alexander Seton would go down in the history books for his tragic demise and yet during his life, he was a native of Fordingbridge and the son of a Colonel.

The duel was the result of Seton pursuing the wife of Lieutenant Henry Hawkey until the situation culminated into a public outburst which ultimately led to the duel. On the day, once 15 paces had been measured, both men fired - Seton missed and Hawkey’s gun misfired.

This could have been the end of the matter however Hawkey insisted on another round which eventually saw Seton as the fallen, eventually dying. His funeral was a big event with everyone in his home village of Fordingbridge reportedly in attendance before he was buried next to his father’s grave.

ENJOY THIS FEATURE IN EVERY ISSUE! Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

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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

Spot the Difference!

There are 10 differences between the two images below.

How many can you spot?

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Get Ready for Spring CONTACT US NOW

Specialists in Garden Awnings & Outdoor Living Discover more at: www.patioandgardenshading.co.uk or call: 01202 679012

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Bursting the bubble?

Underneath the easy-going niceties (and some immaculate clobber) that make Phil Spencer such a perfect fit for light entertainment, lurks a ruthless edge. You couldn’t become a prominent property expert, nor last two decades on Channel 4 hit show Location, Location, Location without firm, singular views on the state of the housing market.

“There is often a perception in the housing market that the experts are totally clued up on what’s to come, but we’re keeping things schtum!” begins the 51-year-old presenter. “The truth is we’re as in the dark as anyone else at times; yet the task in hand is to examine the detail, listen to financial announcements and spot the trends.

“If you can do that, then you can give yourself a pretty good steer on what’s to come.”

thing is, the use of the world bubble implies that it can pop, and I don’t agree, even if the price rises that took place in 2021 cannot continue indefinitely.

“It will be interesting to see how 2022 plays out, but as ever in the UK, when you have a real housing shortage, to the point where I don’t remember a single year when enough houses have been built to meet

Certainly, in these postlockdown days, the housing market in some areas has never looked better, with accelerated growth and a buoyancy that many feel cannot sustain itself.

“I have always been a firm believer in home ownership.

There is no greater cementing of security than in bricks and mortar.”

“I hear the words ‘property bubble’ used a lot; I have done for years,” he smiles. “The the government target, prices will increase.”

Phil Spencer’s caution when it comes to making bold statements is perhaps reflective of the fact the expert has, in the past,

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been a victim of the vagaries of the housing market and its intrinsic link with economic circumstance. His company, Garrington Home Finders Ltd, went into liquidation in 2009 as the financial crash took its toll, yet the Kent-born consultant still steadfastly believes that getting on the housing ladder is beneficial to all.

For people already with mortgages, Spencer also has some guidance. “I’d encourage them to look for opportunities to add value to their properties,” he says. “Don’t rely on the market doing that for you. I believe the market will continue to rise in the long-term, but in order to generate equity and to help fund a second move you need to beat the market, to outperform the market, and the only way of adding value to a house is making it bigger or better.”

To advertise in this magazine, call 023 8065 9309

‘Thank you Oakhaven staff and volunteers,

you are simply the best.’

F

or Mark, who is a regular day hospice attendee, Oakhaven Hospice has been a real haven to him, ‘It’s never a dull place and all the staff and volunteers are truly dedicated and professional, they also genuinely care about you. Without the ongoing support of Oakhaven, life for me would be very dull indeed. I am lucky to have them as part of my life and I am eternally grateful for everything they’ve done for me.’

We are able to care for one in four people like Mark thanks to gifts left in Wills.

Leaving a lasting legacy to Oakhaven in this way ensures we will be able to continue caring for those in our community when they need us most, helping us to make every moment matter.

Could you help us with a gift in your Will?

As a friend of Mark’s from Oakhaven once said to him,

A pledge of any size really will make a difference to our future.

Visit oakhavenhospice.co.uk/legacy for more information.

‘I didn’t come to Oakhaven to die, I came here to live.’

We also offer a free and confidential online Will writing service in partnership with Guardian Angel.

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Increasing numbers of homeowners are choosing to hold their properties as tenants in common to reduce inheritance tax and help protect their share from care fees The Property Protection Trust Will package is based around how you hold the ownership of your home. All good estate planning nowadays considers the difference between owning your home as joint tenants or as tenants in common.

If you own your home as Joint Tenants; when one of you dies the ownership of the home passes by the Law of Survivorship and not by your Will. Therefore, the surviving partner will automatically own 100% of the property. This sounds right to most people. BUT should the surviving partner need care in the future, the Local Authority can take everything they own (including their home) to pay for the care fees, leaving just £14,250 to be inherited by children and grandchildren.

There is an alternative.

Nowadays many couples choose to own their home as Tenants in Common where each partner will own 50% of the family home. This provides for many benefits.

Firstly, it allows you to legally leave your share of the property in your Will to whoever you wish.

A properly written Will can ensure that your half of your house will eventually pass to your children even if your widow re-marries.

Unmarried cohabiting couples or relatives living together can also use this means of ownership as a way of minimising their Inheritance Tax exposure.

It can also help with long-term care costs. If one of you is still living in your home the Local Authority can’t include its value in the means test if one of you has to go in to long-term care.

This also applies if the husband or wife still living at home dies while the other is in care as their share will go into the trust.

Dorset and Wight are your local experts in Property Protection Trust Wills.

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www.dorsetandwight.co.uk

LASTING POWER of ATTORNEYS Probably the most important documents you will ever own.

Wills: £140 each - Single Power of Attorneys: £150 each

Special Offer 1: All four Lasting Power of Attorneys for a couple £570 (save £30)

Special Offer 2: All four Lasting Power of Attorneys & two Wills for a couple £840 (save £40)

Special Offer 3: A complete Property Protection Trust, Wills and all four Lasting Power of Attorneys for a couple - Limited time offer £999 (save £501) Are you concerned about care fees and other risks?

Special Offer 4: The “Ultimate” Family Protection Package includes All Trust Wills and LPAs for a couple - Limited time offer £1,279 (save £881)

If you are concerned about care fees and protecting your children’s inheritance from divorce and other risks.

We are specialists in providing for the elderly or less mobile.

Everything is dealt with in the comfort of your own home.

Members of the Society of Will Writers and Estate Planning Practitioners.

EXPERTISE • EXPERIENCE • EMPATHY Dorset 01202 065953 Hampshire - 01264 252900 Isle of Wight - 01983 623900 All subject to deliberate deprivation guidelines

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The New Forest History & Archaeology Group Our Society was once part of the Hampshire Field Club but we formed our own Group in 2008 to concentrate on the archaeology and history of the New Forest area. In 2014 we registered as a charity and the Group has since continued to flourish.

Our aims are mainly to research the archaeology of the Forest to benefit our members and the wider public. We also seek to record and protect historical sites within the Forest. Education is important and we hold monthly meetings with talks from knowledgeable speakers and occasional workshops and historical visits. Much of our members research is published and available to buy and we produce an Annual Report.

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The highlight of our year is our annual excavation in the Forest In recent years we have excavated a Romano-British site near Brockenhurst and members are welcome to join the‘dig’. The photo below show members hard at work at the site in August 2021.

The annual subscription is very reasonable ie £10 for individuals, £15 for joint/family membership.

Students pay £7. For further details and a membership application please visit our website: www.newforesthistoryandarchaeology.org.uk or contact the Secretary, Jeff Tucker, on jeffreytuckeruk@yahoo.com.

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Les Smith Plastering All Aspects of Plastering Covered Family Run Business Over 30 Years Experience Free Estimates

Tel: 01590 611143 M: 07798 905087

E: farmerlles60@gmail.com

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kateearlastro@gmail.com

Welcome to the February Stargazing Page. Highlights this month include the best opportunity to see Orion high in the sky, and the last chance to see Jupiter in our early evening skies until later in the autumn.

International Space Station

The ISS can be spotted in the evening until the 4th. Viewing then switches to the morning skies from the 19th. To establish exact timings please refer to www.heavens-above.com or a similar webpage for up-to-date information, remembering to set the location to your observing area.

Mercury

The innermost planet can be seen low in the southeast just before dawn for the first two weeks of the month.

Venus

After many months in our evening skies, Venus takes a turn at being the ‘morning star’. It will be dazzlingly bright in the southeast from 5.30am onwards. The Greeks gave Venus the name Eosphorus, or Phosphorus when it appeared in the morning sky, and Hesperus when it shone as the evening star. They did not realise that these two objects were actually one and the same planetary body.

A. How many dwarf planets are there?

B. Which planet has a mass 2.5 times greater than all the other planets added together?

C. Which planet orbits the Sun on its side like a rolling ball?

D. Is Saturn the only object in our Solar system to have rings?

Answers:

WRITTEN BY KATE EARL

Quick quizlet:

A. There are 5 dwarf planets – Pluto, Ceres, Makemake, Eris and Haumea B. Jupiter C. Uranus D. No. All the outer Solar System giant planets have faint ring systems, and rings have also been detected around dwarf planet Haumea, and asteroid 10199 Chariklo.

STAR GAZING

Betelgeuse

Bellatrix

Orion Nebula

Rigel Saiph

Orion The Hunter

View south February 8.30pm

Mars

Mars can also be seen just before dawn, rising around 5.45am.

Jupiter

The Solar System’s largest planet is visible low in the southwest after sunset, but by mid-February it becomes very hard to spot in the Sun’s glare. A pair of good, steadied binoculars will reveal up to four pinpricks of light close to the giant planet. These are the four Galilean Moons; Io, Europa, Callisto and Ganymede.

Venus

Mars

Saturn

The ringed planet is too close to the Sun to be viewed this month.

Moon

February’s full moon occurs on the 16th. A crescent Moon joins Jupiter low in the southwest on the 2nd and 3rd.

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View SE on 27 February at 6.15am Please add in a reference tree or building as has been done before to show the horizon (top of blackline). The colour of the sky is hard to get right, but anything that suggests ‘nearing dawn’ would

Quick quizlet: A. How many dwarf planets are there?

B. Which planet has a mass 2.5 times greater than all the other planets added together?

C. Which planet orbits the Sun on its side like a rolling ball?

D. Is Saturn the only object in our Solar system to have rings?

Betelgeuse

Bellatrix

Orion Nebula

S Rigel

Saiph

Orion The Hunter

View south February 8.30pm

A. There are 5 dwarf planets – Pluto, Ceres, Makemake, Eris and Haumea B. Jupiter C. Uranus D. No. All the outer Solar System giant planets have faint ring systems, and rings have also been detected around dwarf planet Haumea, and asteroid 10199 Chariklo.

Answers:

Venus

Mars

View SE on 27 February at 6.15am Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers 25 Please add in a reference tree or building as has been done before to show the horizon (top of blackline). The colour of the sky is hard to get right, but anything that suggests ‘nearing dawn’ would

Greenfingers… the Alan Titchmarsh column He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist and all-round horticultural inspiration. This month, Alan Titchmarsh talks about how our gardens can move us to a place of peace.

While gardens mean different things to all of us, it’s when I venture into these tranquil spaces that I truly get a sense of their calming and healing power, and I find that hugely enriching. Most gardens and landscapes naturally come with a real feeling of gentleness – from the choice of flowers and plants, to gentle sweeps and curves that guide the eye onwards, to a softness and subtlety that may be a world away from some of the physical or emotional struggles we are going through; and I feel it is this dramatic contrast that really transports someone back to a place of comfort, even if just for a little while.

What is also really important for me when I visit gardens

at hospices and hospitals, is the reminder that these spaces are not just for those who are residents. They also give hope, clarity, peace and a sense of calm to visiting families and, most importantly, the people who work there.

Certainly, with everything that has happened over the past couple of years with Covid, and the realisation that we need to consider and protect workers and staff who look after us, I would like to think those on the frontline can wrestle back their own sense of contentment when soaking up the fresh air and beauty of a garden, where they can move away from a job that’s very hard and emotionally draining.

I would like to see more attention given to gardens and outdoor spaces in our health institutions, and in workspaces in general. They are more important than we imagine.

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Simple sweeps of flowers, plants and foliage are inspiring; the sight of an olive tree can move our minds to far-off places; and we all know how calming a cascade of water can be. It’s all very peaceful and there’s nothing complicated or frenetic.

Gardens are evolving, living things that are always changing – in fact they’re much like us in that respect! For me, on those days where I feel everything’s a bit fraught and frantic, and when I just can’t get to grips with anything, I go to sit in the garden or potter about to find myself, and it really works!

Life is a compromise, and you can’t always be on top of things, but gardens truly prove to me the healing qualities that exist within nature, and we’re so fortunate to have them.

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IRONWORK OF DISTINCTION LIMITED SPECIALIST IN TRADITIONAL & CONTEMPORARY FORGEWORK

Ken Fanner AWCB

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27

The Queen in Decades

Buckingham Palace announced recently that it was already beginning plans for Queen Elizabeth II’s 100th birthday, even though she is still over four years from that milestone.

Even now, at 95, Elizabeth still undertakes her seemingly endless list of public and private duties with consummate ease, and to begin the long process of

preparations in the lead-up to her century milestone in 2026, we have compiled a collection of images of the Queen on every decade of her life.

At 20 - Princess Elizabeth in the Auxiliary Territorial Service, seen here with her mother Queen Elizabeth.

At 10 - Princess Elizabeth, right, arriving with her sister, Princess Margaret, at the Royal Tournament, Olympia.

At 40 - The River Severn was at its full tide of 46ft as the Queen opened the world’s seventhlongest bridge with Mrs Barbara Castle

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At 30 - Harry Primrose, the 6th Earl Of Rosebery, With Queen Elizabeth Ii At Epsom On Oaks Day

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At 50 - Queen Elizabeth II visits Associated Newspapers in Fleet Street, London, in 1976

At 60 - Queen Elizabeth II with David Attenborough, filming the Christmas Message in the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace

At 70 - Queen Elizabeth II out and about in her Range Rover

At 90 - Queen Elizabeth II is accompanied

by Arlene Foster and Martin McGuinness, as she unveils a portrait of herself by artist Colin Davidson at Crosby Hall in London

At 80 - The Queen at the State Opening of Parliament in November 2006

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29

Pump Politics The peril of short journeys, and how to subsequently make the most of the fuel in your tank.

Many of us are stuck in cycles where short journeys are a necessity. A parent with school runs, or someone whose job requires a few short journeys each day, relies on a car to be able to stick to a schedule.

While a trip of less than, say, 10 minutes will not damage in any obvious way, it does fail to allow the engine to reach operating temperature.

These sort of outings, in a cold environment, allow excessive condensation in the crankcase and other parts. Only when an engine warms up does the oil lubricate better, boiling off that moisture.

If the moisture doesn’t ever reach a temperature to condense, the lower temperature will impact the air/fuel mix, which reduces the oil’s effectiveness as a lubricant and can cause excessive wear on moving parts, such as the piston rings.

Short trips, and the nature of driving around built-up areas and tight streets, will also impact wear and tear on tyres in a way that won’t happen

with longer journeys on straighter roads with fewer stops.

In addition, users may also find battery performance dips badly over time. At no point on short journeys is the car in motion long enough to sufficiently recharge the battery – this means you’re using a lot of power starting the engine frequently, without fully replenishing its charge.

Remedies General maintenance The greater the burden you place on your car, the better it will respond if properly maintained. From changing the oil regularly – which will be much more necessary for a car performing a number of short trips than a few long ones – to ensuring tyres are inflated to the correct pressure, better fuel consumption can be achieved.

Excess weight Everything in a car that offers weight will lead to greater fuel consumption.

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From objects left in the boot to unoccupied children’s car seats – the more you can remove, the lighter the car and the more money you will save at the pump.

Gear high, revs low If you are forced to make a number of short journeys, try to use a high gear, whilst staying within the speed limit.

You should change up through the gears as quickly as possible because logic says the faster an engine runs, the more fuel it uses.

While a car’s optimum speed for fuel efficiency is usually around the 50mph mark – a speed that’s unsafe in urban areas – it’s obviously true that lower speeds ask more of an engine, so if you find yourself operating at lower speeds, use smooth right-foot control, with gentle acceleration; and never break hard, instead cruise to a stop whenever possible.

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31

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 reveals his top tenets for architectural life and living happily.

It’s an architect’s job to figure out what are the important things in our lives; it’s to organise space and light and volume that we live in, and to provide the best possible experiences for us to flourish.

When you think of it like that, architecture comes with a very simple a set of objectives really, doesn’t it?

I think it’s sometimes easy to lose sight of those things. We are inspired and driven and teased almost by what see on the television and in magazines.

We are made to suppose that bigger is better, when in reality it really isn’t.

I often encourage people to look after the very basic elements

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of what comprises our homes – things like storage, things like views up to the sky. I try to steer them away from mass or complication, because the fact is the more stuff we fill our lives with, the more there is to go wrong.

In the same manner, happiness really doesn’t reside in numbers - it’s not about quantity, it’s about quality.

And so if you can’t afford somewhere big don’t worry, it’s a false God. A big place won’t bring you happiness - what brings you happiness in the end is relationships with human beings.

Ultimately, good architecture is a reflection of your soul, rather than an extension of your being. You should design your space so that it complements who you are as a person. I have seen many houses on Grand Designs that take seemingly normal people into wild expressions of contemporary ambition – it’s like they have epiphanies in the design process of a build and have convinced

themselves that they are ready to undergo an entire image change in the construction of their home.

Ultimately, what generally happens is that once they’ve lived out that fantasy for six months or a year or however long, they realise they didn’t want that level of change after all, and find themselves making adjustments so that their living space begins to come back round to being a bit safer, a bit more sanitised, a bit more comfortable.

That’s not to say we shouldn’t reach out and be ambitious – just be ambitious in terms of what’s true to yourself, rather than true to what you’ve seen online.

Be pragmatic, be disciplined and connect to those very primal desires you have, rather than those of fantasy and outrageous aspiration. Focus on the boring stuff first - it will actually serve you well.

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CGM Solicitors (Totton) 7 Salisbury Road, Totton, SO40 3HW

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33

Tiny Wonders Six subtle lifestyle adjustments that can elevate you to a place where physical fullness feels a step closer.

ONE - Embrace fats - So while bacon, sausage and cake remain off the radar, ‘good fats’ such as avocado, olive oil, nuts and fish should be incorporated into meals and snacks as a great method for boosting a base level of fuel and energy within the body.

TWO - Water carrier - The human body requires around two litres of water each day to function at optimal efficiency. In simple terms, measured and efficient intake of H2O means more energy, better complexion and even weight loss, given that drinking the pure stuff suppresses hunger.

THREE - Movement - Whilst it sounds straightforward, getting up and moving around is something that’s simple, yet we neglect to do it so often. Regular movement means profound and important improvements to overall health.

FOUR - Sleep Getting shut-eye is the fullest and most accomplished system for the body’s ability to recharge its batteries. The recommendation is for 7-9 hours of sleep every night, with lack of sleep not only impairing body function and mental alertness, but also raising the chance of obesity.

Spot the difference solutions

FIVE - Simple supplements Rather than being a cheat for good health, supplements can provide us with timely and measured boosts for all the vitamins and minerals we may be missing from our regular diets.

SIX - Dr Feelgood - As much as the initial focus should be on securing the framework of who we are – our bodies – embarking on projects that provoke mental stimulus and satisfaction are just as important.

Puzzle Page Answers Quick Crossword Solution #012 Answers:

Across: 1. Manifest, 7. Sarge, 8. Gemlike, 9. Smelter, 10. Idle, 12. Welfare, 13. Asshole, 17. Oral, 18. Marquee, 21. Monster, 22. Niche, 23. Attagirl.

Down: 1. Magpie, 2. Nameless, 3. Fail, 4. Seesaw, 5. Grit, 6. Pearce, 7. Shellac, 11. Closure, 13. Amaretti, 14. Almond, 15. Exempt, 16. Plural, 19. Race, 20. Anna

Guess the Love Song Answers 1) Love Yourself – Justin Bieber

6) All of Me – John Legend

2) Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley

7) I’m Yours – Jason Mraz

3) Can’t Buy Me Love – Beatles

9) Hopelessly Devoted To You – Olivia Newton-John

4) My Heart Will Go On – Celine Dion 5) Love Story – Taylor Swift

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8) This I Promise You – NSYNC

10) Hey Jude - Beatles

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35

Jamie Oliver’s Chai Sticky Date Pudding with Toffee Sauce Introduction

There has been a tradition in recent years to let our Christmas flavours and tastes extend into the new year, and I really like that. After all, why should it be that we can’t enjoy turkey in spring, or add brandy butter to our desserts in summer.

Dates are one of those fruits that count as another festive filler that seems to be forgotten about during other times of the year, but I don’t see why – they’re sweet, full of texture and actually really versatile.

So as we work our way through winter, why not extend that homely, rustic feeling with this date and toffee pudding. It’s warm, tasty and reassuring; and unlike Christmas, it won’t cost you the earth!

Ingredients

(serves 6)

• 150g unsalted butter (at room temperature), plus extra for greasing • 500g self-raising flour, plus extra for dusting • 500g dried pitted dates

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 160°C and place a tray of water in the bottom (this creates steam to keep the pudding moist), then butter and flour a 25cm tin.

Now chop the pitted dates, and zest the orange.

the date mixture, then pour into the Bundt tin.

• 1 orange • 2 chai tea bags • 20g of bicarb • 350g dark brown sugar • 5 large free-range eggs • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 50g golden syrup • 75g black treacle For the Toffee Sauce • 125g double cream • 50g unsalted butter • 50g dark brown sugar • 30g golden syrup • 1 lug of brandy

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2. Boil 400ml of water, turn the heat off, then add the tea bags and infuse for 3mins. Boil again, whisk in the bicarb and add the dates. Leave to one side to cool to room temperature.

3. Next, cream the butter and sugar in a food processor until light and fluffy. Now whisk the eggs, vanilla, orange zest, golden syrup and treacle and pour into the butter mixture in stages, beating until smooth each time. Sieve the flour and fold gently into the batter. Stir in

4. Bake for one hour, or until a knife inserted into the centre comes out clean. Leave to cool in the tins for 5mins.

5. Pop all the sauce ingredients in a small pan and bring to the boil over a medium heat.

Simmer for 5mins, stirring, then remove from the heat.

6. Finally, invert the pudding onto a platter and baste with a little of the sauce. Serve with clotted cream and the remaining sauce on the side.

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Advertisers Index

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

Bathrooms

Letting & Estate Agents

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

Sydenhams Ltd. 2 ............................................................................................................................

Homes of Hampshire 13

Blinds, Curtains & Shutters

Locksmiths

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Broadview Shading Solutions 17 ............................................................................................................................

Key Tek 31

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Memorial Stonemasons

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Clean-U-Up 9 ............................................................................................................................

Lockerley Stone 9

Charities

Painters & Decorators

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Oakhaven Hospice 19 ............................................................................................................................

Alan Farrar & Son 9

Computer Services

Plasterers

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Widenet Computer Services Ltd 23 ............................................................................................................................

Les Smith Plastering 23

Driveways

Plumbers

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County Block Paving 5 ............................................................................................................................

Gas Technique 3 NO1 PHD ............................................................................................................................

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Raz Heating 17

Electricians

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Green Light Electrical 5

Property Maintenance

Funeral Directors

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Avon Home Improvements 23

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New Forest Funerals 35

Solicitors

Garage Doors

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CGM Solicitors 33

Advance Shutters Ltd .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

33 Taxi Services .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

Dorset Airport Transfers 31

Garage Services

Tree Surgeons New Forest 4x4 Services Ltd .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

35 ............................................................................................................................

Apex Tree Surgeons 39 .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

ReversePark 31 ............................................................................................................................

Westbeams Tree Care & Firewood 1 Garden Services

Will Writing Services Ironwork of Distinction .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

27 ............................................................................................................................

Dorset Wills 21 .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Novelty Kneelers 16

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Pro Scapes 27

Windows, Doors & Conservatories

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Coastal Doors & Windows 11 ............................................................................................................................

G S Windows Ltd 7 .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Sydenhams Ltd. 2

Kitchens

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