The Test Valley Gazette - December 2021

e h T

GAZETTE

DEC 2021

Windows, Doors & Conservatories

01264 359355

BLOCKED DRAINS CLEARED FAST Drains Internal / External

► ► ► ►

NO CALL OUT CHARGE

High Pressure Jetting Manual Rodding Pipe Laying Non Excavation Relining

► Insurance Work Undertaken CCTV Surveys

► No Additional Charges on evenings and weekends ► Fully Qualified Engineers covering your area ► Emergency Plumbing Blocked Toilets and Leaks

CALL OUR FRIENDLY TEAMRodding 24/7 evenings

01264 541161

► Pipe Laying ► Fully Qualified Engineers ► Non Excavation Relining covering your area ► Emergency Plumbing ► Insurance Work Blocked Toilets & Leaks Undertaken

SENIOR CITIZEN & NHS

DISCOUNTSOUT

CALL OUR FRIENDLY TEAM 24/7 FOR FREE

01622 617312

Ng PHD PLUMBING HEATING & DRAINAGE

2

1$;/##1

*Trustpilot ouoTEs EXCELLENT: NOV 21

CALL

&ADVICE

Company No; 11927404, VAT No; 334028724.

Reg in England & Wales

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

HIGH QUALITY WORK FOR LOW CUT PRICES! New Roofs • Flat Roofs • Tile & Slate Roofs • Leadwork Re-pointing Chimney Stacks • All Roof Repairs New UPVC Fascias & Gutters • External Painting • Moss Removal

LIMITED OFFER FOR DECEMBER Find & Repair Leak from £150 Moss Removal from £250 Repointing Chimneys from £275 Valley, Gable & Ridge Repointing from £375 We are proud members of CORC (Confederation of Roofing Contractors) Established in 1985, CORC is the premier roofing trades association in the UK. All new works carry our fully insured 10-20 year back up guarantee.

Ask Work Smart for a FREE no obligation quote today!

Office: 01794 230221 Mobile: 07367 112303 info@worksmartroofing.co.uk www.worksmartroofing.co.uk Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

3

December

Edition of your local Test Valley Gazette Community Magazine!

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

Our loyal local trades and services certainly appreciate all your calls and bookings. Each and every one of them wants to wish you a Happy Holiday Season and thank you for all your support over this particularly challenging time. Without you, some of these companies would have struggled much more, so a big appreciation from all of them!

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

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

May you eat, drink and be merry.

Very Best Wishes,

Debbie & Stephen with their son Hayden

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

4

IN THIS ISSUE...

6 8 10 12 14 20 24 28 30 34 36 40 42 44

Councillor’s Column Springing up across Test Valley Pub Quiz The 2022 All Saints Lectures Interview: Keanu Reeves Kevin McCloud Column Christmas Thank You Feature Monthly Walk Spot the Difference Puzzle Answers Next steps for Local Plan Pets: Santa Paws Recipe: Festive Biscuits Alan Titchmarsh Column

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

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

To chat to Debbie or the sales team, give us a call on the number below...

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.

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @modernmagazines

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

5

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

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

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

6

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

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

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

Cllr. Phil North Leader of the Test Valley Borough Council

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

SALE OFF

ER

15% off

Winter Sale • •

Space saving Fully insulated Fully automatic No maintenance Reduced draughts So simple to operate Simple key fob operation All doors fitted with bottom safety edge system in compliance with trading standards regulations

Full range of colours Single/Double doors all made in our Bishops Waltham factory

WE SURVEY WE MANUFACTURE WE INSTALL NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED Covering Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire & Dorset

01962 600777

AtoB Advert 2019 1/4 page.qxp_Layout 1 07/03/2019 16:15 Page 1

info@skandoor.co.uk | www.skandoor.co.uk

YOUR FRIENDLY LOCAL REPAIR & SERVICE COMPANY We will come to you to repair or service your equipment or if needed we can take it away and return when completed We also supply NEW and USED scooters and power chairs REPAIRS & SERVICE • Mobility Scooters • Power Chairs • Wheelchairs • Walkers • Electric Rise and Recline Chairs A to B Mobility

Telephone 07909 522 990

office@atobmobility.com www.atobmobility.com

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

7

Springing up across Test Valley!

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

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

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

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

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

Climate emergency and 8

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

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

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

Urban meadow at Picket Twenty

Live and Local at the Lights

THU

13 JAN 7.30pm

Other shows The Zoots: Sounds of Humbugged: The Pantaloons the 80s Friday, Tuesday 21 & Wednesday 17 December at 7.30pm 22 December at 7pm

Santa’s Best Ever Christmas Thursday, 23 December at 10.30am & 1.30pm

FRI

10 DEC

2pm & 7pm

To book, contact our Box Office: 01264 368368 visit www.thelights.org.uk

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

9

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bing Crosby, Fred Astair and Virginia Dale?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10

Find the answers on Page 34

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

A

TH Machinery

www.athmachinery.co.uk GARDEN MACHINERY - SALES - PARTS - REPAIRS 25 years + industry experience, family run company with strong, honest values.

Contactless service with free local collection and delivery service. Demonstrations by appointment Stiga Countax Ariens Honda Cobra Stihl Husqvarna Mountfield Echo Draper John Deere Hayter Toro Ransomes Jacobsen Iseki and many more………...

Contact:

Tim Lane on 07818 104864 tim@athmachinery.co.uk

Brightside Farm, Salisbury Road Broughton, Stockbridge Hampshire SO20 8BX

A5 landscape advert_Layout 1 20/04/2018 15:15 Page 1

Family Owned Funeral Directors Serving Romsey and district for over 100 years, and through three generations of the Peace family

122 The Hundred, Romsey Email: peace@ahcheater.co.uk www.ahcheater.co.uk

Tel: 01794 513393 Personal attention from Simon & Michael Peace and their experienced team

5 Rownhams Road North Baddesley Email: northbaddesley@ahcheater.co.uk www.ahcheater.co.uk

Tel: 02382 358860 Fu

or

of

Private Chapel of Rest 24 Hour Service

s

Personal attention from Graham Lusty

ner

a l D ir e

ct

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

11

The 2022 All Saints Lectures 31 January 2022

Blick Mead: The first permanent settlement in the Stonehenge Landscape by Dr David Jacques

Stonehenge is one of the most famous prehistoric sites in the world and recent archaeological investigations have revealed stunning details of the monuments that sprang up during the 4th and 3rd millennia BC. The discovery of a permanent settlement at Blick Mead about 2.5 km from Stonehenge with well preserved and substantial archaeological evidence, potentially transforms our understanding of what we know about the pre-Stonehenge landscape 12,000 years ago. David Jacques, Fellow of the Society of the Antiquaries, has led a dig exploring this site 1 mile from Stonehenge beside a spring called Blick Mead.

7 February 2022

A life of Service to Queen, comrades and country by Lt Gen Sir Freddie Viggers Lieutenant General Sir Freddie Viggers had a professional career in Germany, Northern Ireland, Bosnia-Herzegovina and was deployed as the most senior British Officer to Baghdad in 2003. His evidence at the Chilcott enquiry in 2009 was highly critical of the Government's strategic handling of the situation. Freddie was Adjutant General (20058) and often locked horns with the Ministry of Defence over resources to improve the lot of the Soldier and their families. Having retired in 2009, Freddie was appointed Black Rod. Freddie was forced to retire one year later after a life-changing stroke and his talk will draw out how his life’s lessons prepared him for both the anticipated and unanticipated events in his life.

14 February 2022

Re-shaping the future of UK Farming by Dr Alison Field Emerging post Brexit UK agricultural support aims to link objectives across the environment, the climate crisis, biodiversity, water quality and community wellbeing.

How does the farming community adapt to the loss of European markets, changes in home food consumption and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, whilst at the same time playing his part in restoring the health of our soils, the wildlife and our countryside and local landscapes that we cherish? Alison, Facilitator to a farm Cluster Group of 40 farms on 15,000 hectares on Hampshire downs between Winchester Andover and Stockbridge, will draw out how such contradictory objectives are shaping word future farming could be like.

Buying your tickets – all funds raised will go to All Saints’ Roof Restoration Tickets are £12.00 each. Please book ONLINE if you can, by using the QR code or typing this link https://forms.office.com/r/QYYcksFvj3 into a browser. You will find details of all the Lectures along with payment instructions for bank transfer or payment by cheque.

Tickets can also be purchased at the Clatford Village Store, Greenfields Farm Shop or Abbotts Anne Village Shop.

Enquiries Please contact Charles or Nicki Crosthwaite Eyre on 01264 352530 / charles.c.eyre@btinternet.com if you have any questions on the Lectures or problems in making and paying for bookings.

12

Andover, Hampshire SP10 3BB www.alphaglazing-ltd.co.uk info@alphaglazing.uk

For friendly, comprehensive services, phone us now on 01264 334460 Windows, Doors, Conservatories, Bespoke Mirrors, Glass Tabletops, Splashbacks, Double Glazing Repairs, Single Glazing & Greenhouse Glass

All Events Covered:

• Weddings & Par�es • Hospital Appoinments • Shopping Trips • All Card Payments Accepted • All Clients Accepted • Fixed Fares (NO meters) • Reliable service from courteous drivers

Bookings now being taken for Christmas!

To book, call us on

01264 35 55 55 COVID-19 Safe - Our friendly staff are awai�ng your call.

Unit 1, Sta�on Approach, Andover, SP10 3HW

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

13

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14

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

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

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

There seems little danger of that…

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

We translate every major language and language nuance in the world!

Legal

Medical

Engineering

Personal

We are a family-run business with 20 years of experience providing translation services to clients in diverse fields, such as legal, medical, engineering, and private individual translations such as marriage or personal legal documents.

In-house we are fluent in 7 languages, but have the facility to translate in over 100 more languages through our very carefully vetted and qualified extended translations team.

01273 253609 I www.transbright.uk I jason@transbright.uk

Renovations Ltd

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

01264 392507 / 07523 281179 www.sbrenovations.com All Major Credit Cards accepted

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

15

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

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

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

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

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

16

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

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

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

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

F AI HEA RE D R E TR IN IA G LS *

Hear CLEARLY again...

Never miss out on the sounds you love

with the latest comfortable and invisible hearing aids

FREE

*o ns ele ct ed

pr od uc ts

HEARING TESTS

WAX REMOVAL SERVICE

FREE parking HOME visits available FREE aftercare 5 YEAR warranty * 5 YEAR FREE batteries * INDEPENDENT family business

BRING THIS ADVERT IN TO CLAIM YOUR SPECIAL HEARING AID DISCOUNT* or quote ref WTVLM

He

rin

a

We are now open again &

INVISIBLE RECHARGEABLE & SPECTACLE HEARING AIDS

ga

ids don'

t ha v

! e to be seen

Covid-19 Compliant

TROUBLE HEARING THEN CONTACT US TODAY! www.winchesterhearing.co.uk

68 Parchment St, Winchester SO23 8AT

t:

01962 865500

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

17

JS Building Services Covering a comprehensive range of construction services, from the largest to the smallest of jobs considered, including but not limited to:• EXTENSIONS • LOFT CONVERSIONS FREE • RENOVATION WORKS co ns ultation • KITCHEN FITTING and quotation • GARDEN GYMS / at competitive GARDEN OFFICES prices • PATIOS • BRICKWORK AND FENCING • ELECTRICS AND PLUMBING With 30 years experience we can help you with ideas and planning in order to achieve your requirements Contact JAMES:Email: jsbs1972@gmail.com Mobile: 07870 606905 Home: 02381 227652

ROMSEY STUMP GRINDING, LANDSCAPING &

TREE SURGERY • Topping • Pruning & Felling • Hedge Trimming • Turfing and All Garden Work • Logs • Fencing • Patios • Mulch/Oak Chip • Old Sheds Taken Down • Rubbish Clearance • Ground Clearance • Patios Jet Washed • Groundworks • General Building Works Undertaken • NPTC Registered • Fully Insured • Free Quotes

01794 501772 or 07712 069544

Let’s Sudoku!

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

5

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

9

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

2 5 1 8 9 4 8 5 9 4 1

FIND THE ANSWERS ON PAGE 34

18

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

9 8 4 2 6

3

BLINDS

AWNINGS

SHUTTERS

We offer an expert measuring, manufacturing and installation service with a

FULL 5 YEAR GUARANTEE Our other services include awning and canopy restoration, including re-covering, and blind servicing and repair.

Tel:

1

20/03/2019

FREE no obligation quote

01962 736 836 or 07711 007 079

info@winchesterblinds.com 35302 A5 Leaflet PROOF.pdf

Call us for a

www.winchesterblinds.com

11:43

Indoor Bouldering & Climbing Centre

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

Tel: 01794 523599 LTD

www.taspacagna.co.uk

We ca n order, sup and fit ply new goods

• Parties, Clubs and Groups • Corporate events • Not just for kids • Give it a go

t: 01794 590022 e: info@ggclimbing.com www.ggclimbing.com @ggclimbing @GGClimbing

Golden Gecko Climbing Unit 34, Romsey Industrial Estate Greatbridge Road Romsey , SO51 0HR

Opening: Mon-Fri 10am-10pm Saturday 10am-8pm Sunday 12pm-8pm and most other makes…

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

19

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

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

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

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

20

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s okay to incorporate natural materials with contemporary.

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

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

Computer Repair

Ye a

O rs ver Ex 50 pe rie nc e

Est. 1999

IF IT ALL GOES WRONG COME TO THE BEST!

KS LEA D X I F Eteed! ran

gua

(no

e)

o fe

fix n

Support Agents for The John Lewis Partnership

• PC & Mac Repairs/ Upgrades • Tablet/Mobile Device Set Up • Home Visits/Networks • Hardware/Software Repairs • Friendly, Personal Service

• Virus/Malware Removal • Laptop Screen Replacements • Fix Slow Running Computers • Hard Disk/Data Recovery • Business Support

Specialists in roof repairs • New Roofs • Repairs • Flat Roofs • Guttering • Roof Cleaning

• Coatings • Chimney’s • Valleys • Lead work • UPVC Items

WELL EQUIPPED WORKSHOP WITH CAR PARKING

£5 million public liability, reference available Free estimates, competitive rates.

01794 521100 l www.widenet.co.uk

Emergency Call Out: 07515 161616

Widenet

Computer Services

Crown House, 28 Winchester Road, Romsey, SO51 8AA

www.rightroofcompany.com

FREE PHONE: 0800 160 1600

Family Run Business since 1970

(Formally Phillips Groundworks & Landscapes) Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

21

QUIRKY FACTS

by Mica Bale As the nights have drawn in and autumn is on the cusp of being retired in favour of the winter weather, what could be better than enjoying a delve into Hampshire’s quirky facts from the comfort of your own armchair?

From an interesting zoological connection to Queen Victoria herself, here’s another handful of quirky facts!

3

Although the notion of English sparkling wines is hardly a new one, Cottonworth Vineyard has been established since 2005, with origins on the farm dating back several generations of the Liddell family. Alongside Cottonworth Vineyard is Hattingley Valley, another well-respected English wine producer.

Historically France has always had the upper hand as regards to wine production however in recent years, English wines, especially those grown in Hampshire, are not only being recognised for their taste but are also making waves to the point of being not only renowned but respected.

4

1

Originally commissioned by King Charles II Lainston House became the scene of a society scandal years later when sweethearts Elizabeth Chudleigh, a court favourite and Navy commander Augustus Hervey were married at this regal palace.

Neither bride nor groom could afford to allow their secret marriage to be revealed for fear of losing PHOTO: MANGOPEAR their positions.

The marriage was not a success however due to the nature of its secrecy, there seemed little point in an official annulment until such time came that Elizabeth wanted to remarry, thus bringing a charge of bigamy against herself and throwing Lainston House into scandal. Today the palace is a five star hotel and hosts many weddings, thankfully none bringing such scandal as in the past!

Did you know?

2

Renowned for its beauty, Beaulieu is well known, not only for its history but also for its birdwatching with many flocking to see the village’s local populations. Wintertime is a good opportunity to catch a glimpse of Black-Tailed Godwits or the Brent Goose, both species may be seen along the River in winter fresh from Iceland and Russia respectively.

22

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

Did you know that it was 170 years since Osbourne House was completed for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert? The Isle Of Wight royal retreat has often been remembered as the place that both Queen Victoria and her husband could enjoy away from prying eyes and was largely designed by Prince Albert himself. The house took several years to complete and yet the husband and wife were only to enjoy the house for a relatively short time together owing to Albert’s death just ten years later.

5

Have you heard of Dr. Philip Sclater, the Hampshire born lawyer and zoologist? The secretary of the Zoological Society of London for more than 40 years, his work as a progressive ornithologist saw him greatly hailed and respected in his profession and even today, his legacy has seen several species named after him as well as his initial identification of zoogeographic zones still being in use today!

ENJOY THIS FEATURE IN EVERY ISSUE!

3

Although the notion of English sparkling wines is hardly a new one, Cottonworth Vineyard has been established since 2005, with origins on the farm dating back several generations of the Liddell family. Alongside Cottonworth Vineyard is Hattingley Valley, another well-respected English wine producer.

Historically France has always had the upper hand as regards to wine production however in recent years, English wines, especially those grown in Hampshire, are not only being recognised for their taste but are also making waves to the point of being not only renowned but respected.

4

Did you know that it was 170 years since Osbourne House was completed for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert? The Isle Of Wight royal retreat has often been remembered as the place that both Queen Victoria and her husband could enjoy away from prying eyes and was largely designed by Prince Albert himself. The house took several years to complete and yet the husband and wife were only to enjoy the house for a relatively short time together owing to Albert’s death just ten years later.

5

Have you heard of Dr. Philip Sclater, the Hampshire born lawyer and zoologist? The secretary of the Zoological Society of London for more than 40 years, his work as a progressive ornithologist saw him greatly hailed and respected in his profession and even today, his legacy has seen several species named after him as well as his initial identification of zoogeographic zones still being in use today!

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

23

24

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

25

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

1

2

3

4

7

8

9

10 11 12

5

FIND THE ANSWERS ON PAGE 34 26

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

6

Input Joinery - Portrait ad 2015 - outlined.indd 1

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

04/11/2015 09:18

27

2

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

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

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

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

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

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

28

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

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

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

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

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

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

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

5

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

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

WRITTEN BY MALCOLM PRICE

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

5

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

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

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

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

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

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

WRITTEN BY MALCOLM PRICE

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

29

Spot the Difference Can you find all 7 differences?

Find the answers on Page 34 30

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our professional service is right on your doorstep.

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

Need advice on

Property, Wills, Trusts & Probate?

Call us today

01794 513328 bells@bells-romsey-solicitors.co.uk A long established firm with a wealth of knowledge ready to give you a helping hand 5 Market Place

Romsey

Hampshire

SO51 8XF

www.bells-romsey-solicitors.co.uk Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

31

A flavour of Christmas - Concert Preview 16 Dec 2021

Performing for the WEOS Christmas concert on Thursday 16 December is Steve Hubble from Broadmayne in Dorset, making his fifth appearance for the Club.

Originally from Birmingham, Steve is particularly noted for his musical arrangements and orchestral style of playing and

32

has performed many times on radio, including BBC Radio 2 and Radio WM. He is constantly in pursuit of top quality sounds, having worked with many of the leading instruments of the day, and was one of the first artistes to use multi-keyboard set-ups.

The concert commences at 7.30 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.) and tickets are available on the door at £6.00.

Further information about the Club can be obtained by phoning (01264) 323213 or by visiting www.weyhill-eos.co.uk

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

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

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

33

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

34

2 4 3 5 9 7 1 6 8

5 7 6 8 2 1 4 3 9

1 8 9 6 4 3 5 2 7

4 9 8 2 1 5 3 7 6

3 1 5 9 7 6 8 4 2

6 2 7 3 8 4 9 1 5

9 6 2 4 3 8 7 5 1

7 5 4 1 6 9 2 8 3

8 3 1 7 5 2 6 9 4

9 7 2 6 5 3 8 1 4

8 3 4 1 2 9 6 5 7

6 1 5 8 4 7 3 9 2

4 5 8 9 1 6 2 7 3

3 9 1 2 7 4 5 6 8

2 6 7 3 8 5 9 4 1

5 8 3 7 9 1 4 2 6

1 4 6 5 3 2 7 8 9

7 2 9 4 6 8 1 3 5

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

ANDOVER PATIO CENTRE For all your outdoor living needs WE SELL

●

10 & 20mm Shingle

● Sand

●

Fencing & Sheds

● Ballast

●

Paving

● Grit

●

Walling

● Scalpings

●

2, 3 & 5 cuyd Skips

We are open Monday – Friday 7:30am - 5pm, Sat 7.30am - 1pm We offer a delivery service 6 days a week Ample free parking

SPECIAL OFFER MOBILE HEATER & BOTTLE OF GAS

£169.95 ALSO AVAILABLE, BAGS OF COAL, LOGS & KINDLING WOOD

PARKING SENSORS WITH AUDIBLE WARNING FITTED

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

THE COMMERCIAL CENTRE • PICKET PIECE Tel: 01264 323368 www.andoverpatio.co.uk Established since 1963

Is your Classic in need of some expert attention?

• • • • •

Restorations, Servicing & Mechanical Repairs Accident & MOT Repairs Waxoyl Treatment Stage Payments For Restoration Collection & Delivery By Arrangement

Wishing a Merry Christmas to all our customers

Tel: 01202

625050

Welding (Poole) Ltd

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

Mobile Service - We Come To You!

Tel: 01489 449020

Mobile: 07979 353696 www.reversepark.co.uk

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

35

Plans in place for next steps in Local Plan The timeline for putting together one of the borough’s most important planning documents has been agreed as Test Valley Borough Council gears up for public consultation early next year.

The Local Plan sets out the policies and guidelines for planning up and down the borough, and helps to look after the environment while making provision for the facilities and services that the community needs.

Now, the next step in putting this plan together has been agreed, with a timeline now in place for the council to follow, and to consult with the public.

An updated Local Development Scheme has been approved by the authority’s cabinet which outlines the timeline, with this next stage being undertaken in two stages.

Early next year, the public will be asked to have their say on the Local Plan’s vision and objectives, housing and economic needs and how it supports our town centres, delivering masterplans for both Andover and Romsey.

Other areas for consideration include the overall scale and broad strategy for the distribution of growth and the delivery of sustainability and design.

Then, later in 2022, a consultation will be launched with the public on the full draft plan 36

which will have taken into account the first stage’s responses. Settlement boundaries and site allocations for housing and commercial development will also be open for discussion during this phase.

Deputy leader, councillor Nick Adams-King, said: “I know that planning and its policies can be a complex system and often the first interaction around planning policy that residents can have is when they hear of an application.

“We would love residents to get involved now, and tell us their opinions about all things to do with how we should shape our communities going forward. I made a commitment that our Local Plan consultation would be as accessible and wide ranging as possible, a two-stage approach means we can lead on evidence, while ensuring the public’s view is incorporated at every turn.”

What do all the numbers mean in a glasses Prescription When you have an eyesight test you will be given a copy of the prescription. This is the lens correction that your eyes need to see clearly. It is usually presented in the form of a table filled with positive and negative values.

Sph (Sphere) The sphere power is measured in Dioptres. It shows how strong the correction needs to be. A ‘-‘ (minus) symbol alongside the number indicates shortsightedness (difficulty focussing on distant objects) whereas a ‘+’ (positive) symbol indicates longsightedness (difficulty focussing on close objects) Other symbols that can be found in this section are the infinity symbol (which looks like a sideways eight) or the word Plano (or Pl), which are the equivalent of ‘zero’ and are used when no sight correction is required.

Cyl (Cylinder) This shows how much astigmatism you have and the number can be negative or positive. Astigmatism is when the front part of your eye is shaped more like a rugby ball than a sphere or football. If you don’t have an astigmatism, there will be no figures written in the cylinder and axis boxes.

Axis The axis measured in degrees from 1-180, indicates the direction of the astigmatism and tells the lens maker where to place the astigmatic correction on the lens.

Prism This shows if you have a muscle imbalance in your eyes. If the eye muscles are not strong enough to move the eyeball into the desired position, the prism is

incorporated to bend the light entering the eye, so that each eye forms an image in the same place on the retina, therefore avoiding double vision. It’s less common to see this box filled in as it’s fairly rare. The prism is usually written in fractions (for example 1 ½).

Base This shows the direction of the prism in your lens, for example IN, OUT, UP or DOWN. This is fairly uncommon so the boxes are normally empty.

Add This is an additional prescription adding magnification in the form of a plus power to overcome age related loss of near focus. (Presbyopia) It is usually shown as +2.00 for example and is added to the Sphere power of the lens allowing clear focus on near objects such as phones or reading matter.

Intermediate (Inter) Some prescriptions show an intermediate value. This is the also an additional magnification that is added to the Sphere power to allow clear focus of objects at middle distance such as computer screens etc.

RINGLANDS OPTICS Qualified Spectacle Dispensing

Debra J Watts f.b.d.o.

Dispensing Optician

7 Rooksbury Road Andover SP10 2LW 01264 333092 07764 455333 ringlandsoptics@live.co.uk www.ringlandsoptics.co.uk

Would you like to

PAY LESS FOR YOUR GLASSES? 100’s of frames & Sunglasses in stock • NHS vouchers accepted Home visits available • Replacement lenses in your own frame • Free parking

Good Quality, Stylish & Comfortable Glasses, without the High Street price tag! www.ringlandsoptics.co.uk • 01264 333092 Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

37

POETRY PAGE

A visit from St. Nicholas 'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there; The children were nestled all snug in their beds; While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads; And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap, When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash. The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow, Gave a lustre of midday to objects below, When what to my wondering eyes did appear, But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny rein-deer, With a little old driver so lively and quick, I knew in a moment he must be St. Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name: "Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donner and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"

As leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky; So up to the housetop the coursers they flew With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too— And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The

38

prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound. He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot; A bundle of toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a pedler just opening his pack. His eyes—how they twinkled! his dimples, how merry!

His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!

His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard on his chin was as white as the snow; The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke, it encircled his head like a wreath; He had a broad face and a little round belly That shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly. He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself; A wink of his eye and a twist of his head Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread; He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk, And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose; He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight— “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

Source: The Random House Book of Poetry for Children (Random House Inc., 1983)

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

pcc

Premier Car Care Units 11 & 12 Wynford Industrial Park Romsey, SO51 0PW

MOT Testing Station

MOT & Full Garage Services We are pleased to announce that we are the only garage in the Romsey area who can offer the award winning EDT Automotive Engine Decontamination Treatment.

Clean right to the heart of your car.

Tel: 01794 367852

MOT only £40 with this advert.

l Alterations l Extensions l Renovations l New Builds l Insurance Work l Home Improvements

ALL TYPES OF BUILDING WORK & MAINTENANCE CARRIED OUT & GUARANTEED

CAMERAS & BINOCULARS WANTED

By Private Collector ANY Age, Format, Quantity or Quality - Collections Of ANY Size - Lenses Of All Types - Clockwork Cine ALSO Wanted 8mm, 16mm, 35mm - BEST PRICES PAID - WILL COLLECT - ANY DISTANCE CONSIDERED Please Call Keith On

01202 862886 or 07973 751809

FREE ESTIMATES T: 01264 790500

Unit 4D, Fitz Gilbert Court, Castledown Business Park, Tidworth Road, Ludgershall, Wiltshire SP11 9FA.

www.willmontbuilding.co.uk office@willmontbuilding.co.uk

• COVID-19 SAFE COLLECTIONS •

D. J. HARRIS

Inspire Mobility

(Plumbing & Heating) Ltd Plumbing and Heating Engineers Oil, Gas & LPG Systems/Service

Make the most of your freedom with our fantastic deals on a range of mobility aids • Bath Lifts • Walkers • Toileting • Wheelchairs • Scooters • Stairlifts • Recliners & Armchairs 01722 323 666 | inspiremob@googlemail.com Unit 11 Glenmore Business Park, Telford Road, Churchfields, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP2 7GL

Maintenance Department

Open Mon - Fri 9:30am - 4:30pm & Sat 10:00am - 1:30pm

Complete Bathrooms a Speciality SHOWROOM Plantation Road Andover, Hants, SP10 3AT Telephone: 01264 361852 Fax: 01264 333858 Email: enquiries@djharris.co.uk www.djharris.co.uk

Registered

10128

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

39

Santa Paws is coming to town Christmas is almost upon us, time to get excited about trees, decorations, presents and food. Let’s not forget though to make Christmas a fun time for our pets as well. It seems that many of us are already planning on doing this according to an RSPCA survey: • 91% of people were planning on buying presents for their pets.

• 26% of pets could expect to have their own advent calendars.

• 55% would wake up on Christmas morning to their very own Christmas stocking.

• 15% of owners will make a Christmas card for their pet • 26% will have their own special Christmas dinner cooked for them.

• 18% of people admitted to spending more on their pets at Christmas than on their Mother-in –law!

With an estimated 300 million pounds expected to be spent in the U.K on festive presents for pets, what would make a good gift? There are plenty of innovative and fun toys available for pets these days, many of which provide mental stimulation as well as exercise.

Climbing frames for cats with hiding spaces and scratching posts included are great, especially for cats that are mainly indoors. These can help provide activities to reduce stress and increase

40

by John Chitty BVetMed of Anton Vets

exercise. There are also puzzle toys for both dogs and cats, in which they have to figure out a series of actions to release a food reward. You may want to buy a ball or soft toy for your pet, just remember to chose one that is of an appropriate size and material. Balls which are too small present a choking hazard, and if your dog is a chewer then softer toys may not last too long with the risk of squeakers or stuffing being swallowed as the toy is chewed up. You don’t have to spend a fortune on toys either, you can easily make fun toys from empty kitchen rolls or toilet roll tubes. For cats you can cut holes in them big enough to put a paw through and hide treats inside then stuff the ends with paper. They can then try and get the treats out. For dogs just stuff the rolls with treats then fill the ends with paper to pull out. You can even decorate the cardboard rolls with a Christmas theme!

As well as the presents a huge part of getting into the Christmas spirit involves eating festive foods. Unfortunately many of the treats we like to enjoy ourselves are toxic to our pets, especially those containing chocolate or dried fruits such as raisins or sultanas. But there is no need for them to miss out, there are plenty of recipes for homemade biscuits and other treats for our furry friends. If your pet has a dietary intolerance though, be sure to check the ingredients first.

Have a Merry Christmas!

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

www.antonvets.co.uk

01264 729 165

Vet on site 24 hours a day, every day

Full supervision for hospitalised patients Unit 11 Anton Business Park Anton Mill Road Hampshire SP10 2NJ @antonvets search ‘Anton Vets’ 24 hour emergency care

Romsey

Electrical Services

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

T.A. Spacagna Ltd Washing Machine, Dishwasher, Tumble Dryer, Fridge & Freezer, Cooler & Cooker Repair Specialists

 Domestic

Call Outs available Monday-Friday Competitive Labour Rates

 Commercial

Tel: 01794 523599 www.taspacagna.co.uk

 Industrial

We ca n order, sup and fit ply new goods

 Electric Vehicle Charging  Testing and Inspecting  Landlords Certification  24hr call out Tel: 01794

899174

Mob: 07917 726617

Email: romseyelectricalservices@live.com

Vi s i tourWor k s hopat : Uni t1A,ManorNur ser y ,St ockbr i dgeRd, and most Ti msbur y ,Hampshi r e,SO510NBother makes…

JS Building Services

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

Covering a comprehensive range of construction

41

Spiced Festive Biscuits Introduction

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

Ingredients

For the biscuits

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

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

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

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

42

Method

Top Tip

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

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

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

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

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

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

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

General Knowledge Crossword #010 1

2

6

3

4

5

7

8

9 11

10

12

13

15

16

14

17

19

18

20

21

22

23

25 28

26

24

27

29

30

32

31

33

34

35 36

Across Clues: 2. Gruesome (7) 6. Pain (4) 8. All (4) 9. Flat plastic, narrow pointed teeth (4) 10. Appendage (4) 11. Pair (3) 13. To and (3) 16. Meals served (7) 19. Circular guitar (5) 20. Shoal (5) 21. Fool (5) 23. Benefit (5) 25. Substance like glass, heated, plural (7) 28. Including (3) 30. Ocean (3) 32. Skin condition (4) 33. Formal promise (4) 34. Leaves used for cooking (4) 35. Ivy league college (4) 36. Insanity (7)

Down Clues: 1. Harshness (4) 3. Small quarters, shop (5) 4. Swim (5) 5. Reverberation (4) 7. Environment (3) 8. Fairy (3) 12. Large noodles, wheat flour (4) 14. Competition (4) 15. To rear (7) 16. Laugh, very pleased (7) 17. Arctic toothed whales (7) 18. Excuse (7) 22. Important symbol (4) 24. Bottom (4) 26. Change, improve (5) 27. Disintegrate (5) 28. Culmination (4) 29. Apply (3) 30. Timid (3) 31. Capable (4)

Answers: Across: 2. Macabre, 6. Ache, 8. Each, 9. Comb, 10. Tail, 11. Duo, 13. Fro, 16. Canteen, 19. Banjo, 20. Reefs, 21. Idiot, 23. Avail, 25. Enamels, 28. And, 30. Sea, 32. Acne, 33. Oath, 34. Herb, 35. Yale, 36. Madness.

Down: 1. Acid, 3. Cabin, 4. Bathe, 5. Echo, 7. Eco, 8. Elf, 12. Udon, 14. Race, 15. Upbring, 16. Chortle, 17. Narwals, 18. Absolve, 22. Icon, 24. Arse, 26. Amend, 27. Erode, 28. Apex, 29. Dab, 30. Shy, 31. Able.

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

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

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

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

So where am I going with this?

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

44

making other plans”.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

Andover

TOAST

uk or.co. o d e garag fix my

Repair Specialists Andover

CHIMNEY SWEEP

Andover 01264 337711

• Chimney Lining Specialists • Multi Fuel Stoves & Fires • Members of HETAS & NACS FREEPHONE:

0800 689 0006 www.toastsouthern.com

Andover

01264 337711

Paul Jones & Co

Building Contractors Winchester hantsrmltd@gmail.com 07730 099611 01962 715200 01264 781585 Estate Maintenance 07977 898025 Land Management Hedge Cutting • Free quotes • Extensions • Brick work • Flint work • Block paving drives • Patios • Ground works ALL WORK FULLY INSURED 4 Fifehead Cottages, Salisbury Lane, Nether Wallop, Stockbridge, Hampshire SO20 8JN

Woodland Maintenance Gates & Gate Posts Groundworks Paddock Topping Hedge & Tree Planting Agricultural, Equestrian & Garden Fencing

www.hampshireruralmanagementltd.co.uk

Working with

GARRISON GARDENERS

All aspects of garden & groundwork undertaken…

• Grass Cutting • Regular Maintenance • One-off Seasonal Tidy-ups • Landscaping • Hedge & Tree Care • Fence Erecting/Repairs • Pressure Washing • Weed Control

Fully insured, Safecontractor registered and upper tier waste carrier.

Contact the team on: 01722 346 949 Text on: 07881 378 600 email: info@hmandg.co.uk www.hmandg.co.uk Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

45

Advertisers Index

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

Appliance Repairs

Garage Doors

Pet Services

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

T.A.Spacagna 19 ...................................................................................................................................................................

Fix My Garage Door 45 .............................................................................................

Angel Paws 17 ...................................................................................................................................................................

Skandoor 7 .............................................................................................

Anton Vets 41

Blinds, Curtains & Shutters

Garage Services Plumbers .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Winchester Blinds & Shutters 19 ...................................................................................................................................................................

Premier Car Care 39 .............................................................................................

DJ Harris 39 ...................................................................................................................................................................

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

Humphrey & Crockett 48 ...................................................................................................................................................................

Scratched Cars 41 .............................................................................................

NO.1 PHD 2 Builders ...................................................................................................................................................................

Trickett Welding 35 .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

JS Building Services 18 .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Paul Jones & Co 45 Roofing Services .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

SB Renovations 15 Garden Services .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Willmont Building Services 25,39 .............................................................................................

Right Roof 21 ...................................................................................................................................................................

Andover Patio Centre 25,35 .............................................................................................

Work Smart Roofing 1,3 ...................................................................................................................................................................

ATH Machinery 11 ...................................................................................................................................................................

Hampshire Rural Management Ltd 45 Cameras ...................................................................................................................................................................

Romsey Stump Grinding & 18 Serviced Offices .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Rocky Rock Cameras 39 Landscaping .............................................................................................

The Commercial Centre 25 ...................................................................................................................................................................

Sunset Developments 21 ...................................................................................................................................................................

The Handyman & Garden Co Ltd 45 Carpenters

Solicitors Input Joinery .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

Pillbrook Joinery 17 .............................................................................................

Bells Solicitors 31 Gyms & Exercise Groups

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

Golden Gecko Climbing 19

Chimney Sweeps

Taxi Services

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

Toast (Southern) Ltd 45 .............................................................................................

Apex Cars 13 Hearing Services

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

Winchester Hearing Centre 17

Computer Services

Translation Services

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

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

TransBright 15 Memorial Stonemasons

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

41 ...................................................................................................................................................................

M.J.Sly Monumental Sculptor 45

Drainage Services

Will Writing Services

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

NO.1 PHD 2 .............................................................................................

Dorset & Wight Wills 33

Mobility Products & Services Electricians

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

A to B Mobility 7 Windows, Doors &

Events

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

Ringlands Optics 37

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

DF Mobility 25 Peak Electrics .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

Inspire Mobility 39 .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

RG Electrix 7 .............................................................................................

Alpha Glazing Ltd 13 .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Romsey Electrical Services 41 .............................................................................................

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

KJM 1 .............................................................................................

Outlook Window Systems Ltd 47 Opticians

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

The Lights 9

Funeral Directors

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

AH Cheater & Sons 11

46

To advertise in this magazine, call 01264 316499

The sign of quality, service and satisfaction

Outlook Established over 35 years

WINDOW SYSTEMS LIMITED

TEL: 023

8073 7866

www.outlookwindows.co.uk

20% ofOfWS &

WIND ORS DO

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

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

 Full 10 year insurancebacked guarantee

Unit 5/6/7, Baddesley Park Industrial Estate, Botley Road, North Baddesley, Southampton, SO52 9NW Email: enquiries@outlookwindows.co.uk OPENING HOURS: Mon - Fri • 9am - 5pm / Sat - by appointment / Sun - closed

Reg No 16450

Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

47

HUMPHREYANDCROCKETT.CO.UK

SAVE £200! *on selected models

Wood burning stoves

Renewable energy

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

Plumbing & Heating

Chimney sweeping

CONTACT US

(By Appointment Only)

01264 310493

Unit 11 & 12, Focus 303 Business Centre Andover, Hampshire, SP10 5NY

enquiries@humphreyandcrockett.co.uk

THE TEST VALLEY Gazette • www.modernmagazines.co.uk