FREE Issue 34: May/ June 2013
SOLENT WEST
Justin Fletcher (aka Mr Tumble) talks to us about performing at Camp Bestival PLUS! Win a family weekend break at Camp Bestival
Fam-SolentWest-QPL-Ad_SE2013_Perform 22/03/2013 17:40 Page 1
Free Drama Class Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with Perform’s unique drama, dance and singing classes. Our weekly workshops will do wonders for their social, linguistic and physical development as well as being the best fun they’ll have all week.
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May/ June 2013
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Families Solent West
Contents SOLENT WEST Families Solent West Magazine Editor: Rebecca Carr 023 8040 3247 editor@familiessolentwest.co.uk Next issue: July/ August 2013 Bumper Summer Issue Booking deadline: 1 June 2013 Copy deadline: 5 June 2013 To book an advert call: 02380 403247 email: ads@familiessolentwest.co.uk 40,000 readers per issue Printed by Cedar Group www.familiessolentwest.co.uk
-familiessolentwest @familiessolentw
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Local News
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It’s party time party ideas and local providers. Plus win a birthday party at Gambado
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How to get the kids gardening
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Justin Fletcher aka Mr Tumble interview
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Win a family weekend break at Camp Bestival
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What’s on guide
Copyright: Families Solent West, May/ June 2013 Data Protection: if you send us your name and address in order to win a prize in a competition, we may supply your details to the company offering the prize. If you would prefer us not to do this please state this on your entry. Disclaimer: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at the owners risk and whilst every care is taken, neither Families Solent West not its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for consequence. Families Solent West is part of a group established in 1990 headed by Families South West London. All magazines are independently owned and operated under licence.
May/ June 2013
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Families Solent West
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NEWS Educational Psychologist service available at Fleet Tutors
Currently 10% of the British population are dyslexic, but too often this is not identified at school. Many dyslexic children are very bright, but struggle to fulfil their potential in the classroom if dyslexia or other learning difficulties are not properly identified. For many children, despite the best efforts of our schools, many are unable to achieve their full potential due to a lack of resources, or through a lack of understanding. Due to growing demand,Fleet Tutors, a supplementary education service provider, has now extended its range of services beyond tutoring to include independent educational psychologist assessments to identify dyslexia, dyscalculia and other learning difficulties. These assessments will help parents and pupils address their difficulties within the school environment and before the child loses confidence. Assessments are conducted by a fully qualified member of the British Psychological Society, with over twenty-five years’ experience and a comprehensive understanding of various learning difficulties. Appointments are available now at Fleet Tutor’s West London and Farnborough offices. With thirty-five years’ experience helping students of all ages achieve their goals, Fleet Tutors operates a network of over 5000 qualified, experienced tutors across the country. For more information on Fleet Tutors’ services call 0845 644 5452 or visit: www.fleet-tutors.co.uk
The 2013 Garden Show at Stansted Park Nineteen years ago the first Garden Show at Stansted Park, Rowlands Castle was launched to help breathe fresh life into your gardens and homes. The show runs from 7 - 9 June 2013 so why not come along to this inspirational family event and enjoy: Beautiful plants from specialist plantsmen and an innovative range of gardening accessories. Fabulous sculpture, art and gifts. Mouthwatering country foods and wines. Plant Doctors’ practical advice and interactive workshops including growing and cooking vegetables and herbs, beating bugs, flower arranging and more. Watch your children play and explore Stansted’s stunning parklands. They will love riding on the model railway, getting lost in the maze, listening to storytelling and jazz, racing snails and slugs, watching birds of prey, juggling and bouncing….and magic too! A great day out for the whole family; something for everyone. The Show will be open daily from 10am-5pm For further information tel: 01243 538456 or visit www.thegardenshowonline.com
Father’s Day gift idea If you’re looking for a novel Father’s Day gift (June 16), why not give a voucher for Tickled Frog Photography? The Father’s Day voucher costs just £40 (usual price £95) and includes a half hour photo shoot at a Hampshire location of his choice, a viewing of the photographs, plus his favourite image as a 10 x 8 print, ready to be framed. Vouchers are available to buy until Monday 10th June, the photo shoot must take place in 2013 and are subject to available dates between Friday and Sundays. A limited number of vouchers are available. To order your voucher or for further information contact Rob on 07545 234155 or email rob@tickledfrog.co.uk, www.tickledfrog.co.uk
Here come the girls! An invitation to the All Woman Show on Sunday 23 June The successful Boots sponsored South Coast ladies lifestyle show is returning The Portsmouth Mountbatten Leisure Centre on Sunday 23rd June 2013. With up to 80 exhibitors, visitors can be pampered with a makeover from Boots cosmetic brands, create a new look with the latest fashion accessories, speak with wellbeing experts, receive recipe ideas and enjoy demonstrations on stage throughout the day. There is also the opportunity to win a brand new Mini-Cooper.
Families Solent West Magazine is distributed to over 20,000 families every two months
Tickets, which include a Boots Goody Bag, cost £3 and can be purchased in advance from www.allwomanshow.com or telephone 023 9262 6500 (concessions for over 60s and under 16s) Free Parking also available.
To advertise YOUR BUSINESS with us call 023 8040 3247
WIn tickets - we’ve got 4 pairs of tickets which include afternoon tea to giveaway. To enter the competition, please go to our website: www.familiessolentwest.co.uk. Entries must be received by 16th June and winners will be notified on Monday 17th June.
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May/ June 2013
To advertise your business with us with call: 023 8040 3247
Families Solent West
Local news
New online shop for Hampshire What do LEGO® Mania tickets for Milestones Museum, workshops at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens and medieval themed gifts from the Great Hall all have in common? You can now buy them all from one online shop run by Hampshire County Council. The Hantsweb Shop sells a wide range of goods and services, including gift shop items, memberships and event tickets. The purpose of the Hantsweb Shop is to simplify the process of making purchases from Hampshire County Council with one easy to use website. There are many items already available, from Library Film Membership and maps to first aid courses and cycling reflectors, and new ones are being added regularly. We also hope to sell products on behalf of other local councils and charities soon. Find out what the Hantsweb Shop can do for you at www.hants.gov.uk/shop
Aladdin Summer holiday courses for 4- 8 year olds at Perform www.etsy.com/shop/emilyandevelyn
This summer let your children join Aladdin, Jasmine and The Genie on a thrilling five day adventure based on the classic children’s story “Aladdin”. Together with a team of experienced theatre professionals, children will combine live original music, inspirational dance and quick witted improvisation and colourful costumes into a mini performance on the final day. Exclusively for 4-8 year olds, Perform Summer Experiences are five day courses specially designed to encourage creativity, confidence and communication skills as well as being a kaleidoscope of fun! Courses available in Hampshire Monday 19th – Friday 23rd August, fees are £145. Perform Winchester: Holy Trinity Parish Church, 10am – 12pm each day or Perform Fleet: Zebon Copse Centre 2.30pm – 4.30pm each day Call 0845 400 4000, Email: enquiries@perform.org.uk, www.perform.org.uk
EARLY BIRD OFFER 10% discount if you book before the 31 May 2013!
Classic, traditional and designer wear for babies and children 0 - 8 years.
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We also offer a 25% discount for siblings attending the same experience at the same venue.
It’s party time at Marwell
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accredited christening retailer shoes & accessories toys & gifts baby, premature, girls & boys wear free gift wrapping service & loyalty card baby gift hampers - ideal for baby showers, birth congratulations in stock and made to order
22 High Street, Botley, Southampton SO30 2EA Tel: 01489 785829 I www.etikett.co.uk
Marwell ’s Sunset Party in the Park is back by popular demand! Join us on Friday June 7 and 21 for a party to remember. Visit the zoo after hours and see the animals at sunset, meet the keepers who care for them and enjoy special talks. Party with the birds in their new walkthrough aviary, bounce on the bouncy castle and have your photo taken with a giant rhino sculpture. Plus, to keep the party swinging, choose between two nights of incredible performances and entertainment. On June 7, it’s Juggling Inferno – fantastic fire performers and The Pigeons. Eternally curious, Mr and Mrs Pigeon investigate everything they come across by pecking and scratching. They may even leave you a ‘little present’ when you meet them. Or on June 21, join Tall Will – the world’s tallest bubbleologist, who holds the record for most people inside one of his bubble creations – and Pongo, The Obobee Bird, a giant bird who is inquisitive, affectionate, adorable and cheeky.
FREE PARKING IN THE SQUARE & CAR PARKS
The Sunset Party in the Parks will take place between 6.30pm and 9.30pm. Ticket lines are open now and those who book before midnight on May 7 can enjoy an early bird booking discount of 20% off tickets. For more information call 0844 7364200 or visit www.marwell.org.uk/party May/ June 2013
To advertise your business with us with call: 023 8040 3247
Families Solent West
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Local news
Walk to school week
Yes, it’s that time of year again. 2013’s Walk To School Week runs from 20 - 24 May, bringing together nearly one million schoolchildren, teachers and parents and promising to be the biggest and best yet! As part of National Walking Month, the campaign aims to teach children about the benefits of walking, with each day focussing on a different aspect of walking including safety, discovery, healthy, eco-friendly and social time. Take part in Strider’s 5-Day Walking Challenge and reinforce the benefits of walking, plus download puzzles, pledges and challenges from the website www.livingstreets.org.uk
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May/ June 2013
Have you written your will? Research by Macmillan Cancer Support reveals that the single biggest trigger for people to first write their will is having children, yet despite this over half of adults in the UK today have yet to put pen to paper. The research marks the launch of Macmillan Cancer Support’s new Discounted Will-Writing Service which helps people find a legal professional they can trust to write their will at a discounted cost. The service is available online with telephone support, meeting a trained financial professional face-to-face or liaising directly with a solicitor on the phone or in a local branch. Simply get in touch and quote the Macmillan Cancer Support code to receive a discount on the cost of writing your will. “Everyone should have an up to date, professionally written will, to ensure their loved ones and favourite causes are taken care of when they’re gone,” said Helen Eddleston of Macmillan Cancer Support. “Our Discounted Will-Writing Service provides access to trustworthy, professional will writing services at a reduced cost, meaning it has never been easier to write your will.” www.macmillan.org.uk/willwriting
New touch screens set to translate tower views! This year, Spinnaker Tower introduced the i-view, interactive touch screens which provide an innovative and exciting way for visitors to interpret the breathtaking views on offer 100 metres above Portsmouth Harbour. Sarah Webb, general manager at Spinnaker Tower, commented, “ Our new touch screens will provide visitors with a fascinating overview of the city’s history at their fingertips, allowing them to pick and choose which aspects of the view they want to learn about.” Soaring proudly above Portsmouth harbour, the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth is a world class tourist attraction. The iconic 170m tall viewing tower offers visitors spectacular 350° panoramic views of one of the most fascinating seascapes on earth. Its unique position over Portsmouth Harbour provides visitors with incredible views stretching out for up to 23 miles over the historic harbour, the Solent and the Isle of Wight. The Spinnaker Tower is open daily from 10.00am to 6.00pm Call 02392 857520 to book in advance or visit the website: www.spinnakertower.co.uk
To advertise your business with us with call: 023 8040 3247
Families Solent West
Development through Drama Boost your child’s confidence & communication skills. Prepare them for growing up. Ages 3-17
FREE TASTER SESSION
Act Now 0845 226 8117 or soton@helenogrady.co.uk
In Southampton – Romsey, Bishop Waltham, Lymington, Hedge End, Lordshill & Eastleigh.
Home-School Tutoring UK (est. 1984) Tutors (with full references/CRB checked) available for: • • • • •
All ages, levels and subjects Special Needs Support Exam Preparation Support with Home Schooling Holiday and/or Term time work
Initial consultation is free and without obligation
Please contact the Area Advisor for Hampshire (West & Central) Mrs Alex Murray-Twinn, BA (Hons) PGCE, NPQH e: alex.murray-twinn@homeschooltutoring.co.uk t: 02380 275573 www.homeschooltutoring.co.uk
May/ June 2013
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Parties By Joanna Moorhead
A birthday party is the highpoint of the year for most kids - so the pressure is on to get it right. The secret, as ever, is in the planning. But how do you find out which party is right for your child? We guide you through the options.
The Traditional Party
An at-home for the birthday child and friends, with traditional games like pass the parcel, pin the tail on the donkey, and musical bumps. Who’s it suitable for? Great for nursery and reception age children, but don’t neglect its values for older kids, especially girls of eight or nine who often enjoy inviting their friends back to their house and having a girly time. The pros: It’s cheap (or at least, it certainly can be); other parents often stay to help you out, keep you company, especially if you promise a glass of prosecco to help everyone through. The cons: You may need to redecorate afterwards; you’ll certainly need to do a major tidy up. It can be difficult to keep your birthday child’s siblings out of the way, which could lead to conflict. Top tips to make it work: 1. Agree ground rules with the birthday child beforehand about which rooms are in and out of bounds 2. Have a timetable for what’s happening when 3. Think about a project, eg build a bear kits, jewellery-making, pirate games 4. Give them chance to let off steam in the garden 5. For tea, spread a huge paper tablecloth on the floor and get them to sit around the edges of it.
The Action Party
Paintballing, go-karting, swimming, Go Ape and more. Who’s it suitable for? Older children (seven plus); kids with lots of energy who enjoy racing around The pros: Your house remains intact; the kids have something to focus on, and lots of opportunities to let off steam; many children end up covered in bruises from paintballing (though they don’t seem to mind!) The cons: It can be very expensive; although some options, eg a swimming pool party, trip to an adventure playground can be good value Top tips to make it work: 1. If the activity is long and energetic it might be best to postpone a winter birthday party to the spring (the kids might get wet and cold as they’ll be outside for ages). 2. Take plenty of water, squash, snacks including fruit - they’ll need plenty of energy for all that running around. 3. Make sure you’ve checked all restrictions, eg height restrictions, beforehand - there’s nothing worse than finding out on the day that one of your guests is too small to participate.Make sure you get parental consent forms signed well in advance - the venue will require you to do this before they allow you in.
The Church Hall Party An indoor party in a hired venue.
Who’s it suitable for? Children of five plus, who are confident about being left somewhere they don’t know The pros: A lot more space than they’d have if you were at home The cons: You’ll have to leave the place spotless afterwards, and pay for any damage Top tips to make it work 1. Try to find somewhere with outdoor space if it’s a lovely day. 2. Have lots of help, and have tea reasonably early so you can get it tidied away before the end. 3. If you’ve got the budget, consider hiring an entertainer - the extra space will make it a lot more fun.
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May/ June 2013
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The Restaurant Party
A meal-based party in eg a pizza restaurant, where the kids are allowed to help or watch in the food preparation Who’s it suitable for? Older kids of eight-12; children who enjoy the chance to meet and chat more than the chance to run around The pros: At its best, it’s very civilised; you can even have a second table in the restaurant and invite some other parents along, so it’s a meal out for you as well. Children enjoy sense of being ‘grown up’ and eating out with friends The cons: It’s expensive; raucous behaviour will upset other diners Top tips to make it work 1. Make sure you’re booked for a time when the restaurant won’t be busy 2. A restaurant near a park, where kids can run off a bit of energy afterwards, is a good idea 3. Don’t rely on the pizza-making/ chef-watching for absolutely all the entertainment. Bring eg colouring packs or check the restaurant will provide them, and think of some easy games to play round the table, eg I-Spy, in case things flag 4. Make sure you sort out the cake arrangements beforehand; most restaurants allow you to bring your own (don’t forget the candles and matches) 5. Don’t limit yourself to chain restaurants - your local eaterie may well be prepared to accommodate your party, and may be more flexible than bigger establishments Finally....whatever sort of party you’re having don’t neglect the party bags! Every kid is longing for a party bag - and part of the excitement for your child is helping to put the bags together. Have a budget and stick to it - party bags can add hugely to the cost of a party - but try and limit the wasteful plastic toys that get thrown away immediately. See our online children’s parties section for more, including: 8 low cost party bags idea and party tips: familiesonline.co.uk/lowcostpartybags
Families Solent West
Parties
local party directory Active Parties
Party Venues
Little Kickers
INtech
Football training birthday parties.
(
01489 871 916 gary@littlekickers.co.uk
Itchen Valley Woodland parties.
( 023 8047 5080 www.eastleigh.gov.uk/activities Perform
High energy parties for 1-12 years
(
0845 400 1304 wwww.perform.org.uk
Rugbytots Parties for boys and girls.
( 0845 313 3244 southhants@rugbytots.co.uk (
0845 313 3258 phil@rugbytots.co.uk
Cookery Parties Lemon and Soul Cooking with a twist
( 02380 349 117 katarina@lemonandsoul.co.uk entertainers Magic Jack
Putting the magic in the party
( 07500 848 756 www.magicjackmagic.com David's parties Balloonologist
(
02380 442 868 www.davidsparties.webs.com
music parties Jiggy wrigglers
Music and movement parties
( 0800 612 4375 www.jiggywrigglers.com Music bugs
Music and movement parties
( 0844 822 1157 Southampton@musicbugs.co.uk
May/ June 2013
( 01962 863 791 www.intech-uk.com Play Shack Hedge End
( 01489 790 794 www.play-shack.co.uk Three bears Play cafe
( 023 80 420991 www.thethreebearsplaycafe.com Watercress line Your own private train!
( 01962 733 810 www.watercressline.co.uk Party Supplies Katie Bakes
Home-made cookie mix party bags
( 02392 583 553 www.katiebakes.co.uk
WIN a build a bear birthday party at Gambado, Eastleigh
Gambado and Families Solent West Magazine are giving away a FREE Make A bear birthday party for 10 children. Give your little one a Birthday to remember and sit back and relax whilst Gambado Eastleigh do all the hard work. To enter simply go to our website and register your entry: www.familiessolentwest.co.uk/ competitions. Closing date: 30 June 2013 Terms and Conditions Apply. Please see our website for full details.
NEW Make A Bear birthday party at Gambado From that special first Birthday to a 10 year olds amazing private hire Gambado has a host of memorable party packages. The newest package offers a fun Make A Bear workshop with a party host. Every child can choose from a range of bears including dogs, cats, tigers and many more and the party child receives a free outfit! Parties are suitable for 3-12 years and can be booked for a minimum of 10 children. Prices are ÂŁ14.95 weekdays or ÂŁ16.95 weekends. Parties can be booked at www.gambado.com, or you can call our friendly party booking team on 0844 375 9495.
Jumping Jacks Bouncy Castle Hire
( 01243 774455 www.jumpingjackuk.com Party cakes WoW Cupcakes
Bespoke cake and cupcakes
( 07954 820 842 www.wow-cupcakes.com
Softplay Parties Frankie's Fun Factory Party packages available ( 01794 514 242 wwww.frankiesfunfactory.co.uk
Gambado
Birthday parties for ages 1 - 12. ( 023 8011 1065 www.gambado.com
Families Solent West Magazine is distributed to over 20,000 families every two months To advertise YOUR BUSINESS with us call 023 8040 3247 To advertise your business with us with call: 023 8040 3247
Families Solent West
9
How to get the kids gardening! By Elizabeth Dalton
As we reach for the back door, or open a window for the first time in several months, we may spot a daffodil emerging through the cold hard ground, and just maybe the first sight of blue sky overhead - what better time to encourage your children to explore their environment and discover the world of gardening. Involving children in gardening can be a great and fun experience for everyone regardless of age. Children can really get engrossed in planting and caring for flowers – Most kids can’t get enough of the anticipation and excitement of waiting for a seed to sprout or a plant to grow, even making mud pies, as all children find pleasure in a patch of soil they can call their own. Imagine sparking the green fingers of little children, as you point out the wonder of the natural environment around them. And what better way to learn about photosynthesis, by watching it happen in front of your eyes! Show your child the magic of Mother Nature.
Getting Started Gardening doesn’t require a huge garden or allotment; in fact, it can actually be beneficial to start out with smaller spaces such as a window box or a restricted area. Just ensure that the allocated area gets enough sunlight and start with a small, manageable project. It needn’t cost a lot of money either – you don’t need to buy anything special or fancy, and if you grow your own fruit and veg then you’ll ultimately be making a saving! Start with margarine tubs, yoghurt pots, and any other small containers you might find lying around the house. Instead of fancy trays with separate sections, you’ll find just as much use in empty egg cartons. A lollypop stick can make a great plant label and can be used when dipping out seedlings. And what about a water
pistol instead of a watering can. Who would have thoughts watering the plants could be so much fun.
Opportunity to learn There is so much for children to learn. Explain to younger children that the seeds have popped underground and covered up to sleep, helping them understand that they need to be gentle with them and treat them with care. Make sure they know to water regularly and then sit back and watch it grow. You don’t have to be green fingered yourself, gardening opens up a whole host of great experiments and different ways of looking at things, almost like having your own laboratory in your kitchen. A good idea to show how plants need time to grow, lots of sunshine and water is to grow three separate pots of cress. Place one in sunlight with plenty of water, one in a dark cupboard with plenty of water, and one in sunlight with no water. The difference will be there to see.
Inspire their senses We all have a particular fondness for plants which stimulate our senses and children are no different; point out plants with soft leaves and bright flowers, aromatic herbs, scented flowers, grasses and leaves that rustle when blown. These can be particularly beneficial for children with special needs and requirements. Plants attract wildlife, which can be hugely exciting. Wildflowers attract bees and butterflies, and watch out for the insects. All of them have a purpose in the garden, for example hedgehogs and toads eat the slugs and snails, and worms create holes in the soil. Kids will eat anything they have grown themselves, just try with peas, cabbage
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May/ June 2013
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and lettuce. Sheer pride will lend a flavour never to be forgotten. They will realise that whenever they eat yummy fruit and vegetables that someone had to grow them and that we can all grow our own fresh foods.
Prepare for mess! Gardening isn’t a clean business but its lots of fun! So peel your children away from the TV and explore the garden. Once they get in the garden and explore, in time they will want to take care of the plants they have learned to love and really gain pleasure along the way.
Good to grow Inspirational ideas that will make gardening fun for kids this summer!
Sunflowers
tiny seed with a big impact. See who grows the tallest?
Cress egg heads
damp cotton wool with cress seeds, in an eggshell
Quick, edible lettuce
Let kids plant their own small lettuce garden. Let them choose which types and plant them in different shapes
Fun with Peas
they don’t need a lot of space, and once they start growing, grow voraciously.
Create a theme - grow a tomato, courgette, basil and oregano plant, everything to top your pizza!
Families Solent West
COMPETITION
Annabel Karmel launches new recipe book to tickle tots’ taste buds To make mealtimes more manageable for busy mums and dads, the UK’s number one parenting author and expert on baby and child nutrition Annabel Karmel MBE launches the first in her ‘Quick and Easy’ series: Quick and Easy Toddler Recipes.
Carrot, Courgette and Sweetcorn Fritters
With over 100 delicious, nutritious, time-saving recipes packed full of natural flavour. Combining everyday kitchen ingredients with simple-to-follow instructions, Annabel’s recipes can be whipped up for the whole family too. Breakfast, healthy snacks, lunch and dinner all feature in this beautifully designed new book along with plenty of time-saving tips and tricks to encourage children to eat well and experiment with different sweet and savoury flavours.
1 egg 50g self-raising flour 1 tbsp milk 1 tbsp sweet chilli sauce 100g courgette, grated 50g carrot, grated 4 spring onions, sliced 2 tbsp canned sweetcorn, drained 50g mature Cheddar, grated A little oil, for frying
To support the launch of Annabel’s new book due out on 20 June 2013, Families Solent West has two copies to giveaway. To be in with a chance of winning a copy simply go our website to enter. Only one entry per household. The closing date for entries is 30 June 2013. www.familiessolentwest.co.uk
Beat the egg in a mixing bowl then bear in the flour and milk until smooth. Add the remaining ingredients and season.
Quick and Easy Toddler Recipes (RRP £9.99) will be published by Ebury Press on 20 June 2013.
Heat the oil in a frying pan. Spoon the mixture and fry them for 2-3 minutes each side until lightly golden, turning halfway through. You may have to do this in batches, so keep the cooked fritters warm while you cook the rest.
For more information visit: www.eburypublishing.co.uk
www.watercressline.co.uk
27th May - 2nd June
Meet Peppa Pig here at the Watercress Line! It’s going to be a really exciting day out! Meet Peppa Pig at various intervals every day, tickle the piglets tummies and enjoy the piggy washing at the petting farm, have your face painted* and there’s a Peppa Pig Party* every afternoon! Standard fares apply giving you excellent value too!
Teddy Bears Picnic weekend with Binky Bear as the guest of honour!
Bring your favourite teddy bear along for bear spotting activities, paw print trails and a ride on a real steam train! Standard fares apply.
6th - 7th July
*additional fees apply.
www.peppapig.com
www.watercressline.co.uk © Blackwell & Nankivell 2013
Peppa Pig ©Astley Baker Davies/Entertainment One UK Limited 2003
May/ June 2013
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Families Solent West 11
Justin Fletcher (aka Mr Tumble) talks about Camp Bestival with Families Solent West
Mr Tumble has become something of a legend at Camp Bestival - did you think that he would become a hit at festivals? Camp Bestival is such a wonderful festival for the whole family and Mr Tumble seems to fit right in. He always receives such a warm welcome when he comes on-stage and it’s great to see the audience reaching right back to Lulworth Castle joining in with the “Hello Song”. Something Special! The crowd reaction is always huge when Mr. Tumble appears at Lulworth Castle - does the adoration surprise you? Yes, I am always blown away by the response. It’s so heartwarming to see a crowd of people – young and old - all up singing and dancing together but also signing with Makaton. Mr Tumble seems to bring people together. What’s your favourite part of performing at Camp Bestival? It’s great fun to be up on-stage, out in the open air in such a beautiful setting. But again it’s interacting with the crowd and seeing people’s smiling faces that really make it a special event for me.
though he is most at home wherever his friends are – that could be at the park, at the seaside or just at home in the garden!
Will you be performing any of your new songs from the Justin Fletcher album ‘Hands Up’ at Camp Bestival?
You’re celebrating 10 years of Something Special are you proud of the impact it’s had?
Yes definitely. “Hands Up” is a great song to get everybody up and dancing and there will be plenty of others from the new album “Best Of Friends”.
I’m immensely proud of Something Special. It really has helped thousands of children to communicate – many for the first time – with their friends and family. It’s such an inclusive programme that all children can enjoy. If you could teach everyone one thing to be able to sign in Makaton, what would it be? “Hello” would be a good place to start. It means the same thing all over the world and encourages communication. If Mr Tumble could choose any band performing at a festival, which band would he like to join? That’s a tricky one. I think Mr Tumble would have to have his own band. Maybe they could call themselves “The Tumbletastics!”
What is it about Dorset that sees you return to play Camp Bestival every summer? Apart from Lulworth Castle, is there anywhere else in Dorset that you particularly like to spend time? Dorset is such a beautiful county with wonderful countryside and beaches. I have family in the Piddle Valley so enjoy spending time there and I also like exploring new parts. I love to sit at the top of the cliffs at Lulworth Cove too. Does Mr Tumble like camping? He certainly does like camping but he’s not very good at putting up tents. They usually end up falling down on him. He sometimes needs a little help! Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo is coming to Camp Bestival this year, what’s Mr Tumble’s favourite dinosaur?
The theme for Camp Bestival this year is Around The World, where in the world is Mr Tumble most at home?
Mr Tumble likes friendly dinosaurs – so he’d probably choose a gentle giant like a diplodocus as his favourite. I think he might hide if he saw a Tyrannosaurus Rex though!
Mr Tumble is quite an explorer and enjoys going out and about. I think
You look a lot like Mr Tumble, do you ever get mistaken for him?
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Families Solent West
Yes I believe we do look quite similar, except I don’t have such a red nose…… Unless it is very cold!! You’re very active with your charity work, which charities do you support? I try to support as many charities as I can. I feel very privileged to be able to help and work with so many amazing people and organisations. You can see Mr Tumble live at Camp Bestival from 1 - 4th August 2013. You can also read an interview with Josie and Rob da Bank, curators of Camp Bestival on our website: www.familiessolentwest.co.uk
Kids are king at Camp Bestival Kids are king at Camp Bestival. There is an avalanche of activites for children of all ages; 2 to 62! A large section of the festival site is devoted to the little-uns with the Upper Kid’s Garden on the lawn behind the castle particularly suited to giving them a bit of freedom to cavort and explore. Activities here include BigTopMania where you can learn a circus skill, kids theatre workshop, a bouncy castle, bikes and go-carts, a separate toddler area and our pioneering Breastival mother and baby chill out. The Lower Kids Garden is packed full of entertainment for slightly older children including the new dance space tent where you can learn some contemporary dance, Insect Circus and Museum, Art Town where paint and glitter is the order of the day, the kids catwalk, fairground rides, facepainting and a soft play tent and sandpit (for under 5’s). And amoungst all this are plenty of food markets, cafes,
bars, talks and music stages to ensure the slightly older clientele don’t get bored. Kids entertainment certainly isn’t restricted to the Kids Gardens either, with fun and games spread throughout the site. Take a stroll in the woodland arena and discover how to make fires in the wilderness, how to carve a wand or build a home for faries, how to identify the trees or even have a close encounter with some owls or falcons! You’ll find live performances by Horrible Histories, Mr Tumble, Dick & Dom and more happening on our Castle Stage and Big Top amongst all our live music acts, and the Freestyle Sports Park and Rob da Bank’s Music Club for older kids are over in the Upper Meadow. Tickets are now on sale, call 0844 888 4410 or visit: www.campbestival.net
WIN a family weekend break at Camp Bestival Families Solent West has teamed up with Camp Bestival to offer a family ticket to their festi-holiday jamboree this summer. Festi-holiday paradise Camp Bestival is a multi-award winning four-day festival taking place from Thursday August 1st -Sunday 4th 2013 at Lulworth Castle, Dorset. It’s the ultimate family festival, with something for everyone, including this year’s all-encompassing Around The World theme, musical treats like Labrinth, Richard Hawley, Billy Bragg, Ash, Gabrielle Aplin, DJ Yoda and Beardyman and one of the best DJ line-ups anywhere in the world with Grandmaster Flash, Sasha, Fabio and Grooverider and Andrew Weatherall and Sean Johnston’s A Love From Outer Space. There’s high-octane eighties pop action with live shows from Heaven 17, Nik Kershaw and Kid Creole and the Coconuts, plus The Cuban Brothers will be rolling out the good times from across the decades... You’re guaranteed to be dancing round your handbags long into the night. And we haven’t even touched on our festival exclusive Horrible Histories show, comedy headliner Alan Davies, kids’ discos every day in Bollywood, kids faves Mr Tumble and Dick N Dom, our brand new Dance Space, Art Town, 100s Of Things For Kids To Do, the redesigned Dingly Dell, The Guardian Literary Tent, TATE workshops, BFI Film Club, delicious food with Young British Foodies and amazing campsites. There are also lots of brand new magical attractions for 2013, and so much more to keep you and your family smiling all weekend long. To be in with a chance of winning a Camp Bestival 2013 Family Ticket. Simply go to our website to register your entry: www.familiessolentwest.co.uk/competitions. The closing date for entries is Saturday 20 July.
For more information and to book tickets go to www.campbestival.net or call 0844 888 4410 Terms and conditions apply. Only one entry per household. A family ticket is 2 adult tickets plus 4 children up to the age of 17 years all with Thursday - Sunday weekend camping included. All entries must be received by midnight on Saturday 20 July 2013. The winner will be notified by Monday 22 July 2013. No cash alternative is offered. Full terms and conditions can be found on our website.
May/ June 2013
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Families Solent West
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What’s on
Please always phone or view the website before attending the event listed in case details have changed since we went to press. Throughout May
Throughout May
Four Seasons Artists Exhibition Exbury Gardens www.exbury.co.uk 10am – 5.30pm Distinguished artists concerned with all aspects of the natural world are mounting a major show at Exbury Gardens. Until 6 June
The Glory of the Garden Exbury Gardens www.exbury.co.uk 10am – 5.30pm Exbury Gardens are worldfamous for the Rothschild Collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, rare trees and plants.
Exbury Gardens
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5 May Spring Fair New Forest Showground, New Park, Brockenhurst, SO42 7QH 9.00am - 5.00pm free entry and all ages www.newforestshow.co.uk A ‘street party theme’ with tasty treats, crafty stands, activities to get involved with, a dog show, local musicians playing throughout the day
and lots more. Visitors will also have the opportunity to enter their handmade crafts as there will be competitions for the whole family to take part in, including Best Decorated Pebble, Best Jam Tart and Rice Crispy Cake for the children and a Photography Competition, Best Coffee Cake and Flower Arrangement for the adults and much more. 6 May May Day Celebration Manor Farm Country Park
www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm
10am – 5pm Fun for all the family with dancing, music and children’s activities on the farm. Price: Normal farm admission charge. May Day Cavalcade Beaulieu www.beaulieu.co.uk The National Motor Museum Trust, this day will have a display of their vehicles and cars from the National Motor Museum At around 3pm the cars will take part in a cavalcade.
To advertise your business with us with call: 023 8040 3247
19 May Watercress Festival Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk Celebrate one of Britain’s greatest culinary delights at Alresford. This FREE food festival is a great day out with locally produced fare, arts and crafts, music and street entertainment. The railway will be running a park and ride service from Ropley to Alresford on the day. Steam trains will be working the full length of the line so visitors can benefit from the South West Trains rail link at Alton Station with the Watercress Line, a mainline connection with London Waterloo. 23 May Bear Hunt Story trail Royal Victoria Country Park www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 11am-12pm or 1.30pm2.30pm. Join Eddie the Explorer on her hunt for bears in this story adventure. Price includes trail, drink and biscuit and
Families Solent West
craft activity. £2.50 per child. Please book in advance. Suitable for pre-school children of all abilities. Meet at the Nightingale shop. 25 May - 2 June Pirates Ahoy! The Spinnaker Tower Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3TT, open daily from 10.00am to 6.00pm Adult: £8.55, Concession: £7.55, Child: £6.75 02392 857520 www.spinnakertower.co.uk
Harbour. Visitors can explore the harbour with the High Spy ship finder, experience the open-air Sky Deck and dare to walk on air across the glass floor plank! Woolly Week Manor Farm Country Park
www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm
10am – 5pm A host of ‘woolly’ activities and demonstrations throughout the week. Try your hand at spinning, knitting, weaving and follow our woolly trail to see what you can discover? Price: Normal farm admission charge. Half Term Trail Itchen Valley Country Park 10.30am to 4.00pm Come and find the answers to the clues to claim your prize! Cost £1.75 per trail pack
Gather your shipmates and climb aboard the Spinnaker Tower this May half term for pirate themed family fun set 100 metres above Portsmouth
May/ June 2013
Summer Half Term Marwell Zoo www.marwell.org.uk Calling all little explorers! Meet our plants team and find out some fascinating flora facts: learn how hydroponics help plants grow even without
soil, how some plants move when touched, how some provide food and nectar and how some can grow up to a metre a day! Decorate your own plant pot in our craft area and then plant and take home your own seedling, enjoy wood carving demonstrations and listen to a whole host of animal talks. 25 May Baby and Children’s Market The Romsey School Main Hall, Greatbridge, Romsey SO51 8ZB 2pm to 4pm
babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk
A large selection of stalls selling excellent quality pre loved and new items for boys and girls aged from 0 to 10 years. Entrance : Adults: £1, Kids: Free. Refreshments are served in the cafe provided by The Cupcake Angel. Parking is free. For further information call 07580 410594 or to book a stall visit our website. To include your event in our what's on guide, send your event to: editor@familiesolentwest.co.uk
To advertise your business with us with call: 023 8040 3247
27 May - 31 May Team Alliance Family Challenges Royal Marines Sub-Museum
www.submarine-museum.co.uk
11am – 3pm Help us celebrate National Family Week by taking part in some of our fantastic family friendly activities every weekday throughout half term. Have you got what it takes to be part of HMS Alliance’s crew and work together as a team in a series of submarine challenges? You’ll need each member of the family to play their part in showing their physical and mental skills. You’ll have to follow the map to find clues, solve the puzzles against the clock and create a perfect picture in our fun adventure. Free with a valid Museum ticket
Itchen Valley Country Park
Families Solent West
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27 May - 2 June
29 May
31 May
Peppa Pig Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk Catch the big steam trains to Alresford where Peppa Pig will be making appearances at various intervals on each day! It’s going to be a really exciting day out. There will be colouring, DVD shows and face painting available at Alresford station in the Old Goods Shed. Standard fares apply offering unlimited travel along the full length of the10 mile railway on the day of your visit! Find out more and book your tickets in advance on the website or pay on the day. Fares: Adult £14, Child (2-16 yrs) £7, under 2 FREE, Family (2 Adults and 2 Children) £35. Advance tickets include all booking fees and tickets cost the same on the day.
‘Time Trouble’ Story Trail Royal Victoria Country Park 10am - 11am or 2pm - 3pm. Come and try out our brand new Story Trail and find out about the many others which are available for sites throughout Hampshire. Please met outside the shop. Price: £5 for the story trail pack and entry to the event. Please book in advance.
Little Foresters’ Woodland Stories – We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Itchen Valley Country Park 10.30am to 12.00 noon Outdoor activities and crafts for children aged 2 to 5 years plus parent. Cost £3.50 per child. Booking required 023 8047 5080
Outdoor Activity Day Itchen Valley Country Park 9.30am to 4.00pm A day of outdoor activities for 6 to 11 year olds. Includes den building, campfire, craft and games. Cost £20.00 per child. Booking required 023 8047 5080
The Glory of the Garden Exbury Gardens www.exbury.co.uk 10am – 5.30pm Exbury Gardens are worldfamous for the Rothschild Collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, rare trees and plants.
28 May Cookie Decorating Itchen Valley Country Park Any time between 10.30am and 12.30pm Come along and decorate a cookie then give it to someone as a present or eat it yourself! Cost £2.00 per cookie Natural Inspirations Southampton City Council Art Gallery Education Room Enjoy a day of investigating and experimenting with natural materials. Must pre book on 023 8083 4536.
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May/ June 2013
Campfire Cookery Itchen Valley Country Park 10.30am to 12.30pm A session for 5 to 9 year olds (+ accompanying adult) to cook over campfires. Cost £8.00 per child (accompanying adult is free). Booking required 0238047 5080 30 May Clay Plaques Itchen Valley Country Park Any time between 10.30am to 12.30pm Press a leaf into clay then paint a pattern around it to make a plaque or a coaster. Cost £2.00 per plaque.
Until 9 June
2 June Family Play and Tunes Royal Marines Sub-Museum
www.submarine-museum.co.uk
12 noon – 4pm Bring the family down for a free play session in Busy Boats Bay, the Under 5’s indoor play area. Live music. 7 June
7 - 9 June The Garden Show at Stansted Park
www.thegardenshowonline.com
10am-5pm daily Admission: Adult: £8 Child: £5 (4 years and under free) Concession: £6 Family Ticket: £24 (2 adults and 4 children). 8 June
Short Cruise on the Solent SS Shieldhall 0844 357 2329, tickets@ss-shieldhall.co.uk www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk A two hour cruise to view ‘5 Cruise Ships’ (MSC Opera, Ventura, Celebrity Eclipse, Queen Mary 2 & Royal Princess). Depart 11.00, Return 13.00. Tickets £12 adults; £6 children. A two hour family cruise to view the departure of ‘4 Cruise Ships’ (MSC Opera, Ventura, Celebrity Eclipse & Queen Mary 2). Depart 15.30, Return 17.30. Tickets £12 adults; £6 children. Excursions start and finish from Berth 48 Southampton SO14 3QN. Entrance via Dock Gate 4
Party in the Park Marwell Zoo Party in the park after hours and prepare yourself for a wild night to remember! See page 5 for details!
To advertise your business with us with call: 023 8040 3247
Families Solent West
8 June Gosport Stars Showcase 2013: Alliance around the world! Royal Marines Sub-Museum www.submarine-museum.co.uk
10am – 3pm Join us to celebrate Gosport’s very own stars, the youth groups of Gosport as they showcase their skills, activities and badges for this fun filled day. Take part in some great activities and celebrate some of the countries that HMS Alliance visited during her time in service in a mini exhibition by the groups taking part. Baby and Children’s Market Regents Park Community College, Southampton, SO16 4GW 2.30pm to 4.30pm babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk
A large selection of stalls selling excellent quality pre loved and new items for boys and girls aged from 0 to 6 years. Entrance : Adults: £1, Free for Kids. Refreshments. Parking is free. For more information call 07580 410 594 or to book a stall visit our website.
8 - 9 June War on the line Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk The railway is transformed and taken back to the 1940’s where you can experience what life was like in WWII, with military and civilian re-enactors, military and period vehicles and lots of information about life on the home front. Air displays by the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight are a regular feature of this event!* The intention behind War on the Line is to educate the next generation and to give insight into what life was like during the War using the Watercress Line as a living history setting, which is excellent for children’s KS2 History education. May/ June 2013
All subject to availability. *Air display to be confirmed nearer the time. Find out more and book your tickets in advance at www.watercressline.co.uk or pay on the day. Fares: Adult £16, Child (aged 2-16 yrs) £9, Child under 2 FREE. Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) £42. Advance tickets include all booking fees and tickets cost the same on the day. 9 June Manor Farm Country Park at War
www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm
Starts at 11am Join local historians as they tell the fascinating story of Cricket Camp and take you on a guided walk around the site. Meet at Barnfield memorial. Free entry but donations to Help for Heroes welcome. Short Cruise on the Solent SS Shieldhall 0844 357 2329, e-mail: tickets@ss-shieldhall.co.uk www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk Cruise and dine spectacular. Witness the departure of ‘4 Cruise Ships’ (Oriana, Queen Elizabeth, Silver Cloud & Royal Princess) and enjoy an inclusive 3 course meal. Limited to 60 passengers. Depart 13.00. Return 17.30. Tickets £60 adults, £45 children. Excursions start and finish from Berth 48, Southampton SO14 3QN. Entrance via Dock Gate 16 June
16 June
23 June
Father’s Day Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk Take Dad on a nostalgic trip down memory lane and treat him to lunch or a traditional cream tea on board one of our steam trains. Tickets for these trains must be booked in advance. Our regular steam services will also be running and tickets for these can be purchased on the day from our station Ticket Offices. For more information, visit www. watercressline.co.uk
The All Woman Show The Mountbatten Leisure Centre, Portsmouth www.allwomanshow.co.uk The successful Boots sponsored South Coast ladies lifestyle show is returning The Portsmouth Mountbatten Leisure Centre With up to 80 exhibitors, visitors can be pampered with a makeover from Boots cosmetic brands, create a new look with the latest fashion accessories, speak with wellbeing experts, receive recipe ideas and enjoy demonstrations on stage throughout the day. Tickets, which include a Boots Goody Bag, cost £3 and can be purchased in advance from www.allwomanshow.com or telephone 023 9262 6500 (concessions for over 60s and under 16s).
20 June Owl Babies Story trail Royal Victoria Country Park www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 11am-12pm or 1.30pm2.30pm. Enjoy the adventures of the owl babies Sarah, Percy and Bill on a short walk through the park. Price includes trail, drink and biscuit and craft activity. £2.50 per child. Please book in advance. Suitable for pre-school children of all abilities. Meet at the Nightingale shop. 21 June Party in the Park Marwell Zoo www.marwell.org.uk Party in the park after hours and prepare yourself for a wild night to remember! See page 5 for details!
Father’s Day Spy Squad Royal Marines Sub-Museum
Toys for the Boys Tudor House & Garden 10.30am – 12.30pm or 1.30 - 3.30pm. Discover more about medieval weapons and defences.Children’s archery and fire the mini-trebuchet. Must pre-book 023 8083 4536
26 - 27 June Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom Theatre Royal Winchester
theatre-royal-winchester.co.uk
From the makers of Peppa Pig comes the BAFTA awardwinning television animation Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom live on stage. With actors, masks and colourful costumes this beautiful story of elves, princesses and childhood innocence will delight the whole family. 29 June
www.submarine-museum.co.uk
11am – 3pm Celebrate Father’s Day and become a submariner spy! Take part in an important mission. As part of HMS Alliance’s crew, crack the codes and intercept the signals from the enemy hidden around the museum.
WIN a pair of tickets plus afternoon tea for the the All Woman Show - to enter visit: www.familiessolentwest.co.uk
22 -23 June Dene Rally Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk The 2nd annual vintage and steam rally with traction engines, vintage tractors, cars, motorbikes, stationary engines and more! Great fun for all the family with activities for the children and a Wild West show twice daily (weather permitting). Book your tickets in advance online.
To advertise your business with us with call: 023 8040 3247
Baby and Children’s Market The Romsey School Main Hall, Greatbridge, Romsey SO51 8ZB 2pm to 4pm babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk
A large selection of stalls selling excellent quality pre loved and new items for boys and girls aged from 0 to 10 years. Entrance : Adults: £1, Kids: Free. Refreshments are served in the cafe provided by The Cupcake Angel. Parking is free. For further information call 07580 410594 or to book a stall visit our website. Families Solent West
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Whatever you want to store...
Whatever your needs, long or short term ...for whatever reason – house sale and purchase not coinciding, travelling, bereavement, house building work, decorating or even ‘de-cluttering’ to sell your house more quickly – we offer a friendly, flexible and secure facility. Barn-Store is a friendly family run business only a mile from Stockbridge. We offer all the features associated with the national chains, from high tech security to hassle-free 24/7 access. For more information, visit our website:
www.barn-store.co.uk or give us a call on:
01264 316166
and ask to speak to Rachel
Knot just a Garden Tudor House & Garden open 7 days a week, 10 - 5pm Visit the website for details of family events.
www.tudorhouseandgarden.com
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May/ June 2013
To advertise your business with us with call: 023 8040 3247
Families Solent West
Get your Culture-all Passport now! 12 months’ unlimited entry to some of Hampshire’s best attractions
Passpor
t
only
£75 www.hants.gov.uk/passport www.hants.gov.uk
May/ June 2013
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Families Solent West
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May/ June 2013
To advertise your business with us with call: 023 8040 3247
Families Solent West