Test Valley Gazette - March 2021

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Test Valley LOCAL DIRECTORY Easily nd local businesses & services COMMUNITY NEWS Council Tax support unchanged in face of pandemic New strategy launched to help support economy REGULAR FEATURES Councillor’s Column Puzzles and games

MAR

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March

Edition of your local Test Valley Gazette Community Magazine!

Dear Residents, I am so pleased to be sending out your local magazine again this month. With the times as they are it is important to support our local trades and businesses. We have all survived this far, and I am sincerely hoping that the current situation will improve significantly in the next month or so. Of course, there are no guarantees, but the numbers of new Covid cases are decreasing and the vaccine may work. That is the positive news. If you have had a loss in the family, my heart felt condolences go out to you.

Considering all that has happened I do believe we have coped extremely well.

For now, we bring you some good articles to read, puzzles to do, quizzes to work out, and of course our local companies to help you. If you are worried about anyone coming into the house, then give the company a call to see what they have in place or what they can do to service you, or advice they can give in the meantime. It isn’t easy, that is for sure, but it is possible to get things done and get some of the help you need.

A friendly chat on the phone is always most welcomed by the advertisers inside.

I am looking for “Locals in Lockdown” and what you have been doing to keep busy. Please send me an email or get in touch by phone. I would love you to inspire us all with ideas. We had a picnic in the garden, in Daichi, the Modern Magazines Campervan, as he was not allowed out! Simple family fun that made us all smile.

What have you been doing to keep smiling? I await to hear from you.

Debbie & Stephen with their son Hayden Contact Debbie: debbie@modernmagazines.co.uk or Tracey: 07500 592584 tracey@modernmagazines.co.uk

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IN THIS ISSUE...

6

Council Tax support unchanged in the face of the pandemic

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Real Life Law

10 Pub Quiz 12 Wildlife: Wild Wetlands 14 Quirky Facts about Hampshire 16 Councillor’s Column 22 Maze Game 26 Spot the Difference 28 The Adventures of Daichi 30 Puzzle Answers 32 Poetry: Red, Red Rose 36 Stargazing in Hampshire 40 Pets: Feeding Rabbits 42 Monthly Walk:

Historical Michelmersh

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

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

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Council tax support unchanged in face of pandemic Residents will continue to receive the same level of council tax support after Test Valley borough councillors voted last week to maintain the existing scheme due to the impact of the pandemic.

Council tax support provides a contribution towards council tax bills for households with a low income and for those with limited savings who cannot work. The amount awarded by the authority can cover up to 100 percent of the amount owed.

Finance portfolio holder, councillor Maureen Flood, said: “As well as the impact on people’s health, the impact of coronavirus on businesses

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and their employees has caused many people fi nancial hardship. The council tax support scheme off ers vital help to the most vulnerable members of our community and this has never been more important.”

Anyone who has a liability to pay council tax in the UK can apply for council tax support but entitlement will depend on their family circumstances and how much income and capital they have.

More information about the council tax support scheme and how to apply is available at www.testvalley.gov.uk.

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thinkOur I amfriendly entitled to some of his randomly Thank all your legal questions overthe lastalso Thank you you for for all your legal questions over month. team of experts pension. What should I do? the month. friendlyquestion: team of experts chose tolast answer theOur following randomly chose to answer the following You should certainly seek professional questions: when it comes to sorting your “I have been with my partner for 25 years and we advice recently bought a property

LET US SOLVE YOUR dealt with our joint finances and I haven’t often view their fi nancial contribution to ever made a Will. newso, partner Firstly, if you have not Would alreadymy done you may wish to consider preparing a LEGAL the marriage as equal to that of the main inherit my estate?

Declaration of Trust to reflect your financial contributions towards the breadwinner. The only way to secure a If youboth wereintoterms die without made property of thehaving deposit and the mortgage repayments.

This PROBLEMS pension sharing order is by a formal Order a legally valid Will, your estate would fi nances to make sure that any agreement My wife separated six years ago together.

Atand the Itime of the purchase, we could not obtain a joint mortgage, you reach is fair and that it takes both but did not divorce.

We are both in new so the property is in my partner’s sole name. I did however pay part of the parties’ contributions into account. Even relationships my new deposit and I helpand withI live the with mortgage repayments.where I nowone worry what would party does not work (i.e. to partner. My wife and I haven’t properly happen if my partner and I split up or if he dies before careme.” for children at home) the Court will

document will confirm the true ownership of theofproperty notwithstanding the Court.

Whilst you can attempt to pass via the intestacy rules. These are reach agreement between yourselves, that a specifi your partner is the sole owner of the property onanthe Land Registry’s c set of rules which provide an when you come to present this to the records. order of priority of those entitled to your estate. While you remain married, your

Court, both parties have to provide a

nances, including It will be up to you and your partner to decide howbreakdown of their fi you set out your contributions, i.e. the deposit, wife would automatically be entitled to If a the Judge thinks etc., but youreverything respective in shares the house, how muchincome each of and you pensions. pays towards mortgage yourin estate up to aand certain that the agreement you have reached is to be the Declaration of Trust help you to you protect your financial interest if the property needs value depending on will whether or not not fair, an Order will not be granted and sold.have children. Thus, there would be

you may both be asked to attend Court to no set provision for your new partner. provide Secondly, if you and yourimportant partner have not prepared Wills, an we explanation. would recommend that you do so as Making a Will is also as you soonare as able possible.

If anything should happen or would your partner andsuggest you do not therefore thathave you valid Wills to choose your Executor(s) and to youWe seek legal advice as soon as possible to which make your wishes known as regards in place, as an unmarried couple, your Estates would be distributed in accordance with rules you through process.

For more Again, without a applyfuture if youarrangements. have died without a Will (referred to asguide “intestacy rules”).this These intestacy rules do not information, you can arrange a FREE Will there is an order of priority as to who list unmarried partners as potential beneficiaries so if you do not have valid Wills in place, you may 20 minute appointment to see Dennis may act as the Personal Representative get nothing.

McNamara by calling 01264 333336 or of the estate (i.e. the person or persons who deal the estate If you plan on with marrying in theadministration) future, this will put email you inkjappleton.@middletonssolicitors. a much stronger position than you are in co.uk. and while you remain married, your wife now and it comes with certain tax advantages as well. Whether married or not, it is still worth remains at the top of the list. For more If you would like to get in touch, please considering preparing Wills so that you can decide information, please call our Andover offi ce who should oversee distributing your Estate and contact us on 01264 333336 or email howon your Estate shouldorbeemail distributed.

01264 333336 enquiries@ sborek@middletonssolicitors.co.uk. middletonssolicitors.co.uk.

For more information, please call our Andover on 01264 or email You can office send questions by post333336 to: My husband and I aresborek@middletonssolicitors.co.uk. in the process of Real Life Law, Middletons Solicitors, getting a divorce and have dealt with 24-32 London St, Andover, SP10 2PE most of it ourselves. So far, everything DO YOU HAVE SEND US YOUR LEGAL QUESTIONS has been arranged informally. However, A LEGAL I want to make sure we sort our finances E-mail: sborek@middletonssolicitors.co.uk properly and that I get my fair share. I QUESTION?

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1. Which is the larger of the two Caribbean islands: Saint Kitts or Nevis?

2. Cashew, pecan and pistachio are all types of what?

3. Is the island country of Madagascar located off the western or eastern coast of Africa?

4. In which ocean did the devastating 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami occur?

5. Uma Thurman and John Travolta appeared in which Quentin Tarantino 1994 movie?

6. Which rock band had a hit in the 1990's with 'Champagne Supernova'?

7. Who starred as the leading role in 'The Iron Man Trilogy'?

8. Who stars as Mary Poppins in the 2018 'Mary Poppins Returns'?

9. True or False: men have one less rib than women?

10. The Beach Boys released a version of which Christmas song in 1964, originally released by Elvis Presley?

11. What is the currency of Argentina?

12. How many of Henry VIII's wives were beheaded?

13. Who were 'The Bow Street Runners'?

14. Which planet, and its moons, was the unmanned NASA spacecraft 'Galileo' sent to study?

15. What is an indoor cycling stadium called?

16. If AC means 'alternating current', what does DC mean?

17. How many black squares are there on a chessboard?

18. How many days are there between Halloween and Christmas (excluding the days on which they fall)?

19. Who won the 2011 Rugby World Cup? 20. What form of energy is associated with motion?

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Wild Wetlands ‘Wetland’ can be a confusing term because the habitats it describes are so varied. A pond in your garden is a wetland, albeit a small one, but so is the vast floodplain of the Pantanal in South America for example.

Wetland is a general term for any area that is at least partially submerged or flooded with water, either permanently or seasonally (which can feel like everywhere after we have had a lot of rain!).

Ponds, lakes, marshes, mangroves and estuaries are all wetlands.

Wetland habitats are important in a number of ways. They provide a habitat for a huge range of wildlife including many threatened species, with an estimated 40% of the world’s wildlife living and breeding in wetlands. Locally, this could be water voles, kingfishers and otters, all making a comeback as we restore their wetland homes. These habitats also reduce flood risk and control other effects relating to climate change like stopping temperature fluctuation. Some wetlands - mud flats and peat bogs especially - are great at capturing

carbon from the atmosphere. And if that wasn’t enough, they also help purify water by filtering out pollutants. And of course, for many of us wetlands provide access to nature and wild spaces, boosting mental and physical wellbeing.

Despite all the many benefits they

provide, wetland habitats are disappearing.

Not only are they being drained and destroyed to make way for development, but humans are also using more freshwater than ever before. We use (and waste) far more than the planet can replenish, putting pressure on wetlands and adding to the effects already being felt due to climate change. Luckily, the tide is starting to turn, with some of the biggest wetlands in Europe now being managed for conservation and wildlife. There is still a lot of work to be done, especially stopping the pollution of rivers and streams and stopping the colossal waste from leaky pipes and loos.

Wetlands are a vital part of a connected and healthy landscape with thriving wildlife populations, the work to leave our wetlands in a better state than we found them must continue.

Image: Kingfisher © Garry Prescott

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Introducing... Jazzercise DorsetWilts The Jazzercise DorsetWilts instructors have been working hard over the past 11 months to continue to off er up to 14 online workouts a week for our members. We believe mental health is just as important as physical health, especially during this diffi cult time, which is why we have built a positive and encouraging community where we can celebrate everyone; Whether they are trying to lose weight, have an hour of me time away from the family or taking time out to concentrate on the positives in life.

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This morning I stood on the scales and I have just passed the goal I set back some 5 years ago (when the first picture was taken) to lose 150lbs (10 stone)!!

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QUIRKY

BY MICA BALE

Is spring finally in the air? With the better weather hopefully ahead of us, what could be better than delving into the county’s heritage and looking at what Hampshire has to offer today? Yes, here’s another handful of some of the county's most interesting facts.

Did you know that the New Forest is home to at least fifteen species of orchid?

Seen throughout those seasons with warmer weather, orchid spotting is surely one of the nicest ways to spend an afternoon in the strengthening sun or to teach children about local flora. Why not try to spot all fifteen of the different orchids, from Bog Orchid to Early Purple Orchid as well as the Bee’s Nest orchid?

Although an incredibly rare sight, were you aware that among the many varied visitors to Hampshire coasts, include the leatherback turtle? Attracted in warmer weather to the county’s beautiful coastlines, the leatherback turtle is known not only for its giant size, strong jaw and its trademark leathery shell but also for its fondness of hunting jellyfish! The Hampshire Wildlife Trust suggests that if you do see a leatherback, especially on the beach, report it immediately to the local branch.

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Were you aware that 2021 marks the fortieth anniversary of HMS Alliance as a museum submarine?

The impressive submarine dates back to the World War II era and has not only seen active service but is the only surviving example of its class.

Currently HMS Alliance is stationed at Gosport and serves as both a museum and a memorial to the 5,300 British submariners who were killed in service.

Did you know that the pretty village of Damerham was actually mentioned in the will of Alfred the Great? The settlement and its people had long been a royal manor and it certainly appeared to hold a special place in the monarch’s heart as he left strict instructions for after his death that would see his people protected. His will stated that ’It is my will that the community at Damerham be given their landbooks and their freedom to choose whatever lord is dearest to them’!

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Have you seen the Cheriton Civil War Memorial? The village was the site of an important battle in the first English Civil War on the 29th of March in 1644. The battle lasted for hours and was the result of careful manoeuvring from both the Royalist and Parliamentarians. The Battle of Cheriton eventually saw the Royalists beaten and many would say that this defeat was instrumental in the Cavalier’s strategy as Charles I was forced to reconsider his tactics for maintaining the south of the country.

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COUNCILLORS COLUMN At the time of writing, Test Valley Borough Council is about to agree its budget for 2021/22. At the same time, we need to make a decision about how we plug the gap in our finances brought about by coronavirus. Our loss in income (primarily from car parking, planning application and leisure centre fees) combined with increased costs means the council is £6.3m worse off this year because of the pandemic. Thankfully, various tranches of government grants and other savings have helped offset this, meaning we’re looking at a deficit of £1.4m for 2020/21.

The question is how do we deal with that deficit? Broadly speaking, we have three options. Increase council tax by a larger amount next year, reduce services or use our reserves. The Cabinet is strongly recommending the latter, recognising that with coronavirus all our rainy days have come at once. Whilst we’re conscious that we can only spend reserves once, we think that a £1.4m draw down on our equalisation reserve is the right decision in these unprecedented times.

We do have other reserves, such as the New Homes Bonus (the money we get from central government for delivering new homes), which might give us a further buffer for the future, but that is primarily used for our asset management plan as well as to help local groups and organisations in the borough, via our Community Asset Fund and Councillor Community Grants. There’s also no certainty that money will continue to be paid beyond 2022/23, hence why we need to ensure we maintain a reasonably healthy balance.

We also recognise that Covid-19 is also going to have a profound impact on our budget for 2021/22. The difference being that we don’t have the insurance of

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receiving the level of government support we did this year. In fact, the government is assuming that we’ll put council tax up by £5 next year and builds that into its assessment of councils spending power when deciding how much money we receive.

In order to close the budget gap for next visit-hampshire.co.uk year, the Cabinet isPhoto: proposing that we make a further draw on our reserves of £142K coupled with a much more modest council tax increase of £2.50. Meaning that Test Valley residents will pay an average of £148.91 next year – not only to have their bin collected every week but to maintain the housing & homelessness, planning, licensing, economic development and leisure service - as well as continuing with our ambitious plans to improve our town centres. Last year, Test Valley’s council tax was £41 lower than the average for the rest of England – and with many councils intending to put their precept up by the full amount – our 1.7% increase will at least maintain that position, if not extend it.

Recognising the impact the pandemic has had on livelihoods, we are also maintaining our generous council tax support scheme to keep helping those on low incomes.

Overall, we believe this is the fairest way to ensure we continue to maintain top quality frontline services, whilst keeping the council on a stable financial footing.

Cllr. Phil North Leader of the Test Valley Borough Council

cllrphilnorth

@mlggazettesnews

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At Lowen Dental Spa we want to place an emphasis on making our visitors feel comfortable and relaxed, and we understand that this is a mixture of smell, sight and sound. We have taken special care to try and incorporate different elements around Lowen to help nurture the feeling of calm, from our scent diffusers to our new fabulous Log shelf!

Most importantly though, we want to create an environment where Dental health is valued as an important part of our overall wellbeing. We seem to have a funny habit of viewing our mouths as something quite separate and often less of a priority. Yet we use our mouths and teeth for most of our fundamental day to day activities…eating, drinking, talking, singing, SMILING…to name a few.

We understand that it has been an exceedingly difficult time during COVID for many people, and it is hard to imagine a world where we are not hidden behind our masks or smiling through the screen on Zoom. But we are ever hopeful of brighter days to come and want to express our enthusiasm for helping you to care for your smile.

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Maze Game

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Approved Local Traders Approved business you can trust. Here are local accredited businesses who hold specific qualifications within their field.

Explaining Accreditation...

Accreditation means the business has been verified and checked in many ways to be eligible to become a member and hold a certification.

What is Accreditation?

Accreditation is the process in which certification of competency, authority or credibility is associated with a business.

Usually due to a membership which allows them to hold a logo showing the company are a trusted representation of their specific field.

What benefits does this certification mean to businesses?

Local accredited businesses are generally highly respected and recommended due to quality of their workmanship, qualifications and professionalism. These businesses usually have a specific skill or trade that can be quantified to show their competency so they can benefit from an accreditation. A customer can be assured the company is trustworthy and therefore may be inclined to use an accredited business over another without this mark of quality.

How do I tell if a business is accredited?

Usually a business will advertise which certification they hold on their advert or on their website, so you can look them up and find out what qualifications they hold. A membership page will inform you what has been checked by an independent assessor and will provide a rating system and reviews from

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customers that have used that company.

If you have been recommended a tradesperson, you are encouraged to ask them if they are an accredited business and ask them to provide any details about this before any work commences.

How are the businesses reviewed?

To continue to remain an accredited business the company is continually assessed, all reviews from customers are added to their membership page so all potential customers can read all their feedback. The reviews are certified by the independent assessor and their rating average is displayed, as customers are usually asked to rate aspects from 1 to 10 like reliability workmanship and politeness. Usually members also agree to a code of conduct which highlight qualities expected during every day working life, this could include; honesty, provide a quote before any work commences, keeping customer informed, treating the customer with respect, being polite, never demanded a cash payment, no cold calling and to deal with problems or complaints promptly and professionally.

Why use an accredited business?

A business with an accreditation will have to go through vigorous checks to make sure they are fully complying with rules and regulations set by the assessor.

Checks can include; ID check, Public Liability Insurance, VAT Registration, Business address verification, References and Qualifications.

CHECK THEM OUT @mlggazettesnews

Approved traders in your local area

All aspects of Groundwork and landscaping undertaken.

Please contact Andy / Jake for a FREE QUOTATION andy@andover-groundworks.co.uk

07831 459081 • 01264 354302 andover-groundworks.co.uk

Electric garage doors Automatic, insulated aluminium garage roller doors 01962 600777 • skandoor.co.uk

DON’T FORGET TO FIND AND FOLLOW YOUR LOCAL TRADERS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Support Local

NOTE: This is not an exclusive list of approved traders, meaning there may be others businesses within this magazine or in Andover and surrounding areas that have the same accreditations.

Want to see your business listed here?

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Spot the difference Can you find all 10 differences?

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27

The Adventures of Daichi The Modern Magazines Camper Van Warning – if you are of a serious nature and very sensible, preferring to not look at the lighter side of life, with a little tongue in cheek – then this is not for you. I will not be off ended if you choose to turn the pages and move on. They are merely here to make you smile and hopefully brighten up your day.

Here we go…

As you may know Daichi is the Modern Magazines’s (we have a new name!)

Campervan and Oh my goodness has he been whining away in the garden, not being able to go out, as it is not essential, and feeling very sorry for himself. Not only that but it has been very cold! Seriously it is enough to make anyone want to shout and scream… so we decided to get creative and cheer him up! On that note, Daichi

Daichi lifts his ‘lid’ to give us room

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Daichi takes his winter coat off would love to know what you have been doing to keep yourself busy recently. It does take some imagination and persistence let’s face it, but with a little intention and some inspiration we can get pretty clever at entertaining ourselves. We decided to have a picnic… in the garden, in the freezing cold weather! Yes, Daichi didn’t move from his spot, so it was all very legal. Stephen and Hayden uncovered him, from his winter blanket and lifted his ‘lid’ which creates a tent like structure inside. Daichi was stunned to see a world out there. His white grilled-teeth beamed ecstatically and he shuddered in excitement. The side opening roof was suggested to us by the company that converted Daichi from a people carrier to a fully-fl edged Campervan... And what a good idea it was. We have loads of room inside to stand up and walk around… well not necessarily ‘walk around’ as the space is not that big, but certainly head room to stand up. I love it. It is really cosy. A tent on wheels. As kids, myself and a friend stayed in a tent in the garden on several occasions, so maybe I am just trying to relive my youth? I

@mlggazettesnews

can’t imagine that can you?

The unused plastic plates and mugs, securely stacked in Daichi’s compact cupboard, with seaside huts brightly painted on them, had the moths blown off so we could have a very healthy salad. The whistling red kettle was proudly removed from its box and fi lled with water, to gently boil on Daichi’s gas hob.

The four of us ‘huggled in’, including local resident Fi Fi the cat who is part of the family bubble, and we beamed from ear to ear as we looked out at the rather bare garden, wondering what we were really doing. Mad and British, but hey… you can’t beat a good picnic, even in February!

The salad was delicious. Somehow it seemed so much more, sat outside defying the weather and not allowing the current scene to totally get us down. Do you also remember those times as a kid when you made a den and hid inside? How exciting was that!? Well, that is how this felt. Adults maybe… but we can still have some good old-fashioned fun. The whistling kettle always brings a smile to my face. I just love that sound. A sound of elation, triumph – and just a good cuppa!

We had bought a small electric heater that can be plugged into the socket, especially for times like this… well not quite, as we did not predict a pandemic and months of not

Coffee from the whistling kettle

Daichi makes sure we eat healthily being able to go out… But could we fi nd this heater? No! Oh well a good scarf, a jumper and long johns and we were fi ne. Not a pretty sight, but no one was there to see us!

Daichi has a games cupboard, so we just had to have a go. A game I never played as a youngster was “Pass the Pigs”. Do you know it? This set was given to Hayden by Stephen’s Mum and Dad as Stephen played it a lot when he was younger. We love it and I won two out of three games which made me the champion, so I love it more now…

No competitive spirit here… Then of course there is the good old Snakes and Ladders.

With all the computer games now, I think some young ones just don’t know what they are missing! Hayden won two straight games, making him the reigning champion for dodging snakes.

All in all, we defi nitely made Daichi smile. As a result, we smiled a lot too! I suppose the moral of the story… if there is one… is have fun. Don’t be defeated. Do get creative. Do something simple and just enjoy it. Daichi maybe dreaming of the sea, sun and sand as well as long drives in the countryside but for the meantime let’s make the most of what we have. Let’s see if he is able to get out of the garden by the next time we see you!

Have fun.

By Debbie Corney

To advertise, please call 01264 316499 or email enquiries@modernmagazines.co.uk

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Answers Page PUB QUIZ 1. Saint Kitts 2. Nut 3. Eastern 4. Indian Ocean 5. Pulp Ficton 6. Oasis 7. Robert Downey Jnr 8. Emily Blunt 9. FALSE 10. Blue Christmas 11. Peso 12. Two 13. British detectives 14. Jupiter 15. A velodrome 16. Direct current 17. Thirty-two 18. Fifty-four days 19. New Zealand 20. Kinetic energy

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Be sure to check out the next issue for more game pages!

Don’t leave it too late to put your affairs in order People often talk about putting their aff airs in order but then sit on their hands until it is too late. The serious consequences of delay in seeking legal advice were underlined by a case in which a woman waited until she was resident in a hospice, terminally ill with cancer, before instructing a solicitor to prepare her will.

The woman signed her will 10 days before her death. Her main asset was a house she jointly owned with her mother, who survived her by about four years. An issue of great signifi cance, however, later arose as to whether they owned the property as joint tenants or as tenants in common.

If they held the property as joint tenants, the principle of survivorship applied and, on the woman’s death, her half share passed automatically to her mother. In that event, the property formed part of the mother’s estate when she died and the entirety of the proceeds of its sale - more than £400,000 - fell to be distributed in accordance with her will. If, on the other hand, they held the property as tenants in common, the woman’s share of the property fell into her own estate.

On the same day that the woman made her will, she signed a notice which purported to sever her and her mother’s joint tenancy, thereby converting it into a tenancy in common. A letter containing the notice was sent to her mother by registered

post. A few days after the woman died, however, the letter was returned undelivered.

Against the background of those unfortunate events, the executor of the mother’s estate launched proceedings. Half the proceeds of the property’s sale were held in a solicitors’ account pending a judicial resolution of the matter.

The High Court noted that the non-delivery of the letter meant that the mother had not been served with the notice. That defi cit had not been cured by a letter sent to the mother by the Land Registry four days before her daughter died. The joint tenancy had therefore not been validly severed and the Court ruled that the entirety of the proceeds of sale formed part of the mother’s estate.

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

Bells are a specialist Wills, Probate, Residential and Commercial Conveyancing Practice. The offi ce is open fi ve days a week Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm (prearranged appointments only).

Our professional service is right on your doorstep.

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

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31

POETRY PAGE

Red, Red

Rose

O my Luve is like a red, red rose That’s newly sprung in June; O my Luve is like the melody That’s sweetly played in tune.

So fair art thou, my bonnie lass, So deep in luve am I; And I will luve thee still, my dear, Till a’ the seas gang dry.

Till a’ the seas gang dry, my dear, And the rocks melt wi’ the sun; I will love thee still, my dear, While the sands o’ life shall run.

And fare thee weel, my only luve!

And fare thee weel awhile!

And I will come again, my luve, Though it were ten thousand mile.

- Robert Burns Source: Poetryfoundation.org

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35

WRITTEN BY KATE EARL

STAR GAZING Welcome to the March Stargazing Page. Highlights this month include early morning planet spotting, and a beautiful meeting in the constellation Taurus of Mars, the red giant Aldebaran, our old favourite The Pleiades, and the Moon.

Interna onal Space Sta on The ISS will be visible in the early morning between 3am – 6am, every day from 1st to 12th March. If you are not an early riser do not fear, as from the 18th until month end the space station is visible in our evening skies at least once between 7pm – 10pm. 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 Andover.

Events The start of longer daylight hours commences on 20th March at the Spring Equinox. This marks the first of two dates (the second being the Autumn Equinox) when daylight hours equal the number of night-time hours, wherever you are on Earth (equinox comes from the Latin meaning ‘equal night’). The equinoxes are the best time of year to determine the main compass point directions relative to your own home, as the Sun rises due east, sets due west, and is due south at midday. Try remembering these positions relative to a building or a tree.

Venus Venus is too close to the Sun to be viewed safely this month.

Mars The red planet spends the whole month in the constellation of Taurus, and although far dimmer than at the start of the year it can still be distinguished as a bright, orange ‘star’ high in the sky towards the southwest at around 7.30pm on a clear night. Mars appears quite close to the Pleiades on the 6th, and a sensational vista is on display the night of the 18th when Mars, the Pleiades, Aldebaran (the red ‘eye of the bull’), and the Moon form a beautiful trapezoid (see figure). Take the opportunity this month to compare the colour of Mars and Aldebaran – both should show an orange-red hue.

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@mlggazettesnews

Mercury, Jupiter & Saturn All three planets are visible in our dawn skies but you have to be quick as they disappear in the morning light by 6.30am. Mercury is very close to Jupiter on the morning of the 5th, and all three planets and the Moon are low on the horizon on the 9th (see figure). Thereafter, Mercury is hidden by the Sun’s glare.

Moon This month’s full moon occurs on 28th March, and is traditionally known by a variety of names, including Worm, Crow and Sap Moon.

Object of the month People are often surprised to learn that the most famous star in the sky, the North Star or Pole Star, is not the brightest star in the sky. That honour is awarded to Sirius, located in the constellation of Canis Major, ‘the big dog’.

Sirius is one of the few star names derived from Ancient Greek, and means ‘glowing’ or ‘scorching’. Sirius is easy to find using the constellation Orion as a guide. Draw a line through Orion’s belt from right to left and continue down until you reach Sirius (see figure). Orion needs to be quite high in the sky to do this as Sirius never rises very high above the horizon in UK. Mars Pleiades Aldebaran

Orion

Taurus

Sirius

SW - 18 March 7.30pm

S

March 7:30pm

SW

Saturn

Jupiter Mercury

View SE 09 March 6am

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37

SCRAMBLE LHCCTOESAOP DRIARMUE URDPCI CRMPEANO HSAETLR OSERSE

Unscramble the letters to find words that are associated with Valentine’s Day. Each one has an extra letter. Find a colour!

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39

FEEDING RABBITS Sadly many of the problems we see in pet rabbits stem from their diet- often these are the results of long-term issues and so are almost impossible to correct.

Fortunately, it does mean that these problems are preventable! In particular, dental disease and gut stasis are commonly associated with dietary issues. Even fly strike risk is increased by poor diet resulting in failure to remove the edible faeces from round the back end. A recent study performed by Edinburgh University confirmed these findings- different groups of rabbits were fed diets ranging from all fibre (especially hay) to all muesli concentrate diet.

Unsurprisingly, those in the all-fibre group had the healthiest teeth and the healthiest guts. They were also in best overall shape. Sadly some of those in the all-muesli group had to be removed from the trial as they began developing severe dental disease even in a few months: many of these rabbits also became clinically obese. Of the rabbits in the mixed diet group, there signs of dental disease developing and they were fatter than those having just fibre.

Are we surprised? Not really- rabbits evolved to eat fibre (ie. Grass and hay) so it makes sense that they are happiest and healthiest when eating these.

Concentrate and muesli rations were basically developed for feeding production rabbits (ie those destined for food and fur) and are not designed for longevity. They have become popular amongst pet rabbit owners as they are so easy to feed. However, it is becoming obvious that something must changeone major pet store now no longer stocks muesli-type diets, and as rabbit

40

By John Chitty - Anton Vets BVetMed CertZoo Med MRCVS

owners we need to be looking to give a much more natural diet. If possible, this should be all-fibre- unlimited hay and grass should be the basis of all rabbit diets from as young an age as possible.

Contrary to some advise, rabbits do not get diarrhoea if fed grass, unless they are suddenly given large amounts of fresh wet grass when they have never seen grass before: to avoid this? If your rabbit is unused to grass, then introduce it gradually over 5-7 days!

Greens should be added for interestdandelions and garden herbs are excellent, but a range of dark green leaves and brassicas can be given. To avoid dietary overload, used mixed greens each day. Carrots are not a staple of the rabbit diet (apart from Bugs Bunny, of course!) but can be given in small amounts along with apple or pear as treats.

There are some situations where concentrate food is desirable- eg. growing rabbits; pregnancy/ nursing; and in the coldest parts of winter. In these cases, use one of the high fibre nuggets or a top brand pellet and do not exceed a level of 25g/kg bodyweight per day. Muesli diets encourage selective feeding as well as causing the problems described earlier, so should be avoided completely. It would be wonderful if we could prevent dental disease in rabbits. While genetics do play some part, improved nutrition would make the biggest difference.

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41

Walking through history in

Michelmersh

Start here

This month’s walk returns to the core of the Test Valley as is starts from The Goat Public House, Stockbridge Road, Timsbury, SO51 0NG

where there is ample parking and a warm welcome at the finish of the outing. The distance of this walk is a ‘short’ 4 miles which is not too taxing, but being across plenty of clay soil, the paths tend to get greasy, so allow 65 to 70 minutes to complete the circuit.

Leaving the car we need to cross the fast flowing Stockbridge Road with great care, to the opposite path and turn right for a mere 100 metres, then turn left through a gate and proceed right at 45 degrees across a field. This is a well trodden path which shortly meets another path where we turn left and weave our way between fences and woods. Before long we cross a stile and move up hill through some long grass to a fresh gate and appear opposite the entrance to Michelmersh 42

Brickworks. This brick plant has played an important role in the commerce of the area since it first opened in 1842.

Now capable of producing up to 72 million clay bricks per year, as well as quality clay roof tiles. Michelmersh Brick has been awarded a fistful of honours within the building and design industry over many years. Continuing the walk we turn left along the road, past the offices, proceeding 150 metres down the road (past a bottle bank) and then taking the first right turn into the brick yard stock road. Very soon a footpath sign confirms our progress and once again a turn to the left at the relevant sign, stops our progress into their yard as we sweep away through the woods. This path crosses a works track with two gates to warn us of the pending traffic then into an open field which affords great views across to the West into Hampshire and beyond.

There is a slight climb along the right side of this field, then through two gates, which bring us out on a local road, Staff Road. We turn right and again left after 50 metres to walk a switchback of a road up to Mesh Road then directly across to the footpath and beside the thatched cottage before passing through a gate and turning sharp right up the right hand of the field.

This final stretch of around 500 metres needs a good eye to pick out the Southern Water Board site on the right which immediately precedes the footpath, which has a fine palm tree on the corner.

As we climb, the field joins a stile that we cross and once again climb the narrow path towards Michelmersh Church that is the destination over a stile on the right.

This church is a Grade 11 listed building that can trace it’s history back to the 12th century and with the iconic wooden tower is well worth a visit.

We turn right here for only 100 metres before the path opens out on the left between fence and hedge, whereupon we turn left again and aim downhill through the field which takes us back to the starting gate and the crossing of Stockbridge Road and a return to the patiently waiting car.

Suitable refreshment is naturally available within The Goat.

ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR WALKING

Resuming the walk we must aim to the tiny gate on the right hand of the churchyard which leads us into an open field and the start of our sojourn along the well mentioned Monarch’s Way. Over the far side the stile leads us through woods then gradually opens up onto a grassy road and all with a gentle downhill, passing beside a large metal gate and onto a road where we turn right into Manor Farm Lane which zig zags down to a staggered crossroad. At this point we should be heading directly across and downhill into New Road, which effectively means a dogleg left then right into the next road. Regretably there is no footpath on this section, but the road is wide and there is much grass verge beside the road to ensure safe passage.

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43

A beginner’s guide to Carrots

There is absolutely nothing like a carrot pulled fresh from the ground... that wonderful smell, which soon disappears and is never apparent in shop bought ones and the taste of that sweet orange root can only be achieved by growing your own.

They can be sown from March to July and can be grown in containers at least 12 inches deep. Like any plant with a long tap root, carrots do not like being transplanted so should be sown directly into the soil where they are to grow.

They are happiest in light, rather sandy soil so if you have heavy clay, you should add plenty of sharp sand (not builders sand) Germination won't be so good if the soil hasn't warmed up and it's best to sow the seed into well prepared soil that has already been watered.

44

It is important to sow the seed as thinly as possible, which isn't easy as the seed is so small. Try mixing it with a handful of sand which stops the seed from sticking together and makes it easier to see where they're going.

However careful you are, the seedlings will probably need thinning at least once to give the carrots room to swell. This operation is best carried out in the evening as carrot fly can be a problem, particularly in early summer when they lay their eggs around the roots) They are attracted by the smell of disturbed plants and thinning’s should be moved away immediately.

Try growing chives, onions or garlic around the carrots to mask the smell or you could put fleece (available from garden centres or some hardware shops) over the carrots after sowing.

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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 To advertise, please call 01264 316499 or email enquiries@modernmagazines.co.uk

45

Advertisers Index

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

Appliance Repairs

Garden Services

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

T.A.Spacagna 27 .............................................................................................................................................

Abbotts Fencing and Property Services 20 .............................................................................................................................................

Andover Patio Centre 35 Bicycle Sales .............................................................................................................................................

Aquatic Services 18 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Hampshire eBikes 20 .............................................................................................................................................

Barker & Geary Ltd 5 .............................................................................................................................................

Romsey Stump Grinding, Landscaping & Tree Surgery 23 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters .............................................................................................................................................

The Handyman & Garden Co Ltd 45 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Winchester Blinds & Shutters 38

Builders

Gyms & Exercise Groups

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

Jazzercise 13 Andover Groundworks & Construction ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

25 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

G.S.L. Metalcraft 27 Health Clinics ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Paul Jones & Co 45 .............................................................................................................................................

The Dove Clinic 27 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Shakespeare General Builders 25 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

Winchester Hearing Centre 9

Cameras

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

Rocky Rock Cameras 27 Memorial Stonemasons .............................................................................................................................................

Lockerley Stone 41 Carpenters .............................................................................................................................................

M.J.Sly Monumental Sculptor 45 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Input Joinery 2 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Pillbrook Joinery 18 Mobility Products & Services .............................................................................................................................................

Inspire Mobility 39

Chimney Sweeps

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

Toast (Southern) Ltd 45 Painters & Decorators .............................................................................................................................................

Painters Direct 45

Cleaning Services

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

Swissmaid UK 25 Pet Services .............................................................................................................................................

Anton Vets 41

Computer Services

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

Widenet Computer Services Ltd 27 Plumbers .............................................................................................................................................

DJ Harris 39 Day Nurseries .............................................................................................................................................

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

Ewe Cash 33 .............................................................................................................................................

NO.1 PHD 21

Dentists

Property Maintenance

At Home Dental ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

7 .............................................................................................................................................

Abbotts Fencing and Property Services 20 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Lowen Dental Spa 17

Drainage Services

Puzzles & Games

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

Maze Game 22 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

NO.1 PHD 21 .............................................................................................................................................

Pub Quiz 10

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

Puzzle & Game Answers 30 .............................................................................................................................................

Spot the Difference 26 Peak Electrics ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

45 .............................................................................................................................................

Sudoku Puzzles 18 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

RG Electrix 39 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Romsey Electrical Services 41 Residential Care Homes

Electricians

Features

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

Cinnamon Care: Netley Court 34

Adventures of Daichi ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

28-29 Solicitors ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Councillor's Column 16 .............................................................................................................................................

Bells Solicitors 31 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Monthly Walk 42-43 .............................................................................................................................................

Middletons Solicitors 41 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Poetry Page 32 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Quirky Facts about Hampshire 14-15 Taxi Services ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Stargazing Pages 36-37 .............................................................................................................................................

Apex Cars 9

Food Delivery Services

Tree Surgeons

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

Wiltshire Farm Foods 11 .............................................................................................................................................

MWU Tree Services 25

Funeral Directors

Vehicle Leasing

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

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

Carisma Vehicle Solutions Ltd 35

Garage Doors

Waste Services

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

45 .............................................................................................................................................

S.E.S Environmental Ltd 7 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Garolla Holdings Limited 34 W i l l W r i t i n g S e r v i c e s ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Skandoor 5,25 .............................................................................................................................................

Dorset & Wight Wills 19

Garage Services

Windows, Doors & Conservatories Premier Car Care ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

39 .............................................................................................................................................

G S Windows Ltd 3 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

ReversePark 23 .............................................................................................................................................

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

Scratched Cars 23 .............................................................................................................................................

Outlook Window Systems Ltd 47

46

www.modernmagazines.co.uk

Outlook The sign of quality, service and satisfaction 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

To advertise, please call 01264 316499 or email enquiries@modernmagazines.co.uk

47

HUMPHREYANDCROCKETT.CO.UK

SAVE £200! *on selected models

Wood burning stoves

Renewable energy

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

48

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

www.modernmagazines.co.uk @mlggazettesnews The Test Valley Gazette • www.modernmagazines.co.uk