Itchen Valley 134

Itchen Valley

FORU M DECEMBER 2017 • ISSUE 134 • REACHING 18,750 READERS * ITCHEN VALLEY, WINCHESTER & THE WORTHY'S OLD ALRESFORD CANDOVER

BIGHTON

GUNDLETON

ITCHEN ABBAS & STOKE

ABBOTS WORTHY

KINGS WORTHY

TICHBORNE

ROPLEY & ROPLEY DEAN

MARTYR WORTHY HEADBOURNE WORTHY

BRAMDEAN

AVINGTON

ABBOTT'S BARTON

BISHOP’S SUTTON EASTON WEEKE

CHERITON & NEW CHERITON

HINTON AMPNER

FULFLOOD

BEAUWORTH

OLIVER'S BATTERY

NORTHINGTON FOUR MARKS

ST.CROSS

PRESTON

MEDSTEAD

1

WINCHESTER CITY

100% QUALITY 100% SERVICE 100% TRUST

Win

a Christmas

Hamper!

Leading up Christmas every customer will be entered into our Christmas Raffle Draw* to win this fantastic Hamper!

There are runner-up prizes too.

And when you bring your kids to our Customer Area they can enjoy their own Free Lucky Dip! While you wait service Child-friendly customer waiting area Free local collection and delivery Free courtesy car by appointment

Phoenix Auto Services Ltd Prospect Road Alresford SO24 9QF

* Draw to take place on Thursday 22nd 21st December. The lucky winners will be published on Facebook and on our website.

Dealership quality repairs MOT Centre Tyres and exhausts Computer 4-wheel alignment check

0 1 9 6 2 736343 enquiries@phoenixautoservicesltd.co.uk www.phoenixautoservicesltd.co.uk

£10

n this o i t n e M get o t t r e v ad MOT! t x e n r off you

Editor - Mark Tubb Tel: 01962 735137 editor@forumpublications.co.uk Sub Editor - Emma Sumpster Tel: 07450 575284 emma@forumpublications.co.uk Advertising Director - Steve Walker Tel: 01962 735137 stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

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Advertising Manager - Mandy Head Tel: 01962 735137 mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk Design Manager - Mark Tubb Tel: 01962 735137 editor@forumpublications.co.uk Senior Designer - James Curtis Advertising & Creative Design james@forumpublications.co.uk Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS Copy Writer - Gill Grant gill@forumpublications.co.uk Copy Writer - Claire Thurlow claire@forumpublications.co.uk

FORUM PUBLICATIONS LTD 11 BROAD STREET ALRESFORD HAMPSHIRE SO24 9AR TEL: 01962 735137

JANUARY COPY DEADLINE DECMBER 11th Printed on recycled paper The Itchen Valley Forum contains facts, views, opinions, statements, recommendations, advertisements and other content and links to external websites not owned or controlled by the magazine. The Itchen Valley Forum takes reasonable efforts to include accurate, current information on its pages, but make no warranties or representations as to the accuracy, safety or value of the published items that are displayed. No liability or responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions in magazine content. The Itchen Valley magazine content does not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or recommendations of its creators and any reliance upon its content is taken at the user’s sole risk. Adverts designed by Forum Publications remain the magazine's legal ownership. Š Forum Publications Ltd, 2017 * Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household

05 Community

Keep up-to-date with what is happening in your area

30 Food & Drink

Eat out, stay in: food, drink and dining in Hampshire

6, 7, 8, 14, 24, 26, 30, 42, 44, 48, 56, 60, 66, 36 Retail/Market Square 68, 70 Our regular retail feature -

08 Property

Buying, selling, letting?

Find local estate agents and property management services

12 Features

Hampshire Mum, Claire Thurlow, Iris Crowfoot and many more

28, 34, 52, 64

13 Garden

Make your garden dream come true. Or visit local beautiful country gardens

Unique, Bespoke, Eclectic and Local shopping

45 Professional

From photographers to solicitors - every professional service you need

46 Education

Find local schools and educational experts

50 Animals

From Canine to Equine all your animal needs

18 Wellbeing

51 Home

20 Culture

54 Leisure &

Looking after your health and yourself!

The diverse theatre, music, arts and crafts of Hampshire

29 Motoring

Local services to keep your vehicles running smoothly

Trades, services, designers.

All you need for your home

Entertainment

Discover local events and days out in Hampshire. Don't miss this years Alresford Show

WELCOME ISSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

OU R TEAM

make your kitchen a happy kitchen by changing the doors, worktops and accessories

Itchen Valley Forum readers save 30% during December

We are now taking bookings for January 2018 and places are filling up fast.

Treat yourself to a new kitchen this Christmas and receive excellent discounts when you wrap up your order before the end of 2017.

Testimonial “We had just moved and wanted to update and bring colour and a contemporary feel into our existing kitchen but wanted to avoid the large Corporate Companies. We found the answer in Happy Kitchens when Ben brought his showroom to us, and the experience of choosing units and colours turned out to be an exciting one, rather than daunting and disappointing. When it came to installation, the team of fitters including Martin, James and Mitch were spot-on with their time keeping, efficiency and workmanship. We were consulted where decisions mattered and nothing seemed too much trouble. We are both thrilled with our kitchen and can’t believe the transformation. Post customer service is as important and they can’t be faulted. They even returned to check all the units a week later for any ‘tweaks’. A happy team, led by Ben and we would 100% recommend them. They deserve to do well.” Thank you” – Jane Wareham

Churches Together in Alresford

Wish you all a Happy and Peaceful Christmas St. Gregory's New Alresford

St.John the Baptist New Alresford

Alresford Methodist Church

(Roman Catholic)

(Anglican)

(Methodist)

Christmas Eve 20.00 Midnight Mass

(with Carols) Christmas Day 11.00 The Nativity

of the Lord

Sunday 17 December 18.00 Festival of lessons

and Carols Saturday 23 December 18.00 Cantata Choral Evensong Christmas Eve 09.00 Parish Communion 17.00 Crib service 23.30 First Communion Christmas Day 08.00 Christmas Communion 09.30 Christmas Family Communion

Sunday 17 December 16.30 Carol Service with

Mince Pies Christmas Eve 10.30 Morning Service Christmas Day 09.30 Christmas Morning Servcie

Churches Together carol singing in Alresford - Saturday 16th December from 11.00am

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COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Church Services NEW ALRESFORD St. John the Baptist Sunday 3 December 08.00 Holy Communion 09.30 Parish Communion 18.00 Advent Carol

Procession Sunday 10 December 08.00 Holy Communion 09.30 Second Sunday 16.00 Choral Evensong

at Itchen Stoke 18.00 Sunday at Six Saturday 16 December 12.30 Prayers around

the Tree of

Remembrance Sunday 17 December 08.30 Holy Communion 09.30 Parish Eucharist 18.00 Festival of Lessons

and Carols Saturday 23 December 18.00 Cantata Choral

Evensong Christmas Eve 09.00 Parish Communion 17.00 Crib Service 23.30 First Communion

of Christmas Christmas Day 08.00 Christmas

Communion 09.30 Christmas Family

Communion Saturday 31 December 10.00 Benefice

Communion at

St.Peter's, Ovington Parish Office: 01962 733545 stjohnsalresford.org.uk OLD ALRESFORD St.Mary the Virgin Sunday 3 December 09.30 Holy Communion Sunday 10 December 09.30 Parish Communion 16.00 Choral Evensong at

Itchen Stoke Sunday 17 December 17.00 Carol Service Christmas Eve No Service Christmas Day 10.00 Christmas

Family Communion Saturday 31 December 10.00 Benefice

Communion at

St.Peter's, Ovington

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Every Thursday Communion at Old Alresford Place Parish Office: 01962 733545 stjohnsalresford.org.uk

Midweek Activities Mondays 16.30 Kidz Club Tuesdays 10.15 Toddlers Group Wednesdays 19.30 Alternate Bible

Study / Prayer Thursdays 10.00 Home Prayer Group 1st Saturday in the month 10.00 (2nd in each month)

Prayer Time www.newfarmchapel.org.uk

OVINGTON St.Peter's

BIGHTON O All Saints

Sunday 3 December 10.00 First Sunday Sunday 10 December 10.00 Parish Communion 16.00 Choral Evensong

at Itchen Stoke Sunday 17 December 16.00 Carol Service Christmas Eve 18.00 Carols around

the Village Christmas Day 10.00 Christmas Family

Communion Parish Office: 01962 733545 stjohnsalresford.org.uk

Sunday 3 December 11.00 First Sunday Sunday 10 December 11.00 Parish Communion 16.00 Choral Evensong at Itchen Stoke Sunday 17 December 17.00 Carol Service Christmas Eve 23.30 First Communion

of Christmas Sunday 31 December 10.00 Benefice

Communion

at St. Peter's,

Ovington Parish Office: 01962 733545 stjohnsalresford.org.uk

NEW ALRESFORD Methodist Church Sunday Worship 10.30 Morning Worship 1st Sunday

CafĂŠ Worship. Holy

Communion

Monthly Midweek Activities Tuesdays 10.00 Come in for coffee 3rd Tuesday

Men Who Lunch Thursdays 14.30 1st and 3rd Thursdays

Womens Fellowhip 19.30 1st Thursday -

Lydia Group for

ladies Saturdays 09.30 1st Saturday

Bacon Butties Contact: Revd Ruth Fry Tel: 01962 882828 NEW ALRESFORD New Farm Chapel Sunday Services 10.30 Morning Worship,

with creche and

KOSMIC for

children 16.30 Will vary between

talk or discussion

with praise and prayer

UPPER ITCHEN BENEFICE Sunday 3 December 09.00 Tichborne

Holy Communion 10.15 Cheriton

All Age Holy

Communion 16.00 Cheriton

Christingle Sunday 10 December 09.30 Cheriton

Matins 09.30 Beauworth

Holy Communion 15.00 Church in the wood

Carols in the wood 18.00 Kilmeston

Carol Service with

Christingles 18.00 Bramdean

Carol Service Sunday 17 December 09.30 Cheriton

Holy Communion 11.00 Hinton Ampner

Carol Service 11.00 Beauworth

Carol Service 15.00 Cheriton

Carol Service 18.00 Tichborne

Carol Service Friday 22 December 18.00 Cheriton

The Longest

Night Service Christmas Eve 16.00 Cheriton

Crib Service 11.30 Cheriton &

Hinton Ampner

Holy Communion Christmas Day 08.30 Beauworth &

Tichborne

Holy Communion 09.30 Cheriton

Holy Communion 11.00 Kilmeston &

Bramdean Holy Communion Sunday 31 December 09.30 Hinton Ampner

Holy Communion NEW ALRESFORD O St. Gregory's Every Sunday 11.00 Mass All other enquiries: 01962 852 804 ITCHEN VALLEY BENEFICE Sunday 3 December 08.00 Avington

Holy Communion 11.00 Martyr Worthy

Matins 16.00 Itchen Abbas

Christingle Sunday 10 December 08.00 Easton

Holy Communion 10.00 Itchen Abbas

Parish Communion 18.00 Martyr Worthy

Evensong Sunday 17 December 08.00 Martyr Worthy

Holy Communion 10.00 Easton

Parish Communion 16.00 Graces Farm

Carols in the Barn Christmas Eve 16.00 Easton

Crib and Carol

Service 11.30 Itchen Abbas

First Communion

of Christmas Christmas Day 08.00 Avington

Holy Communion 10.00 Martyr Worthy

Traditional Communion 10.00 Easton

Traditional Communion Sunday 31 December 10.00 Martyr Worthy

Parish Communion

Sunday 17th December

10.30am - Morning Service focussing on 'Christmas' 5.00pm - Carol Service with a nativity presentation by the children.

Guest Speaker at both services: Gordon Curley. (seasonal refreshments after the Carol Service)

The secret to life's meaning is found in having a personal relationship with the God who created us.

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Sunday 24th December 10.30am - 'What's in a Name?'

Christmas Day 25th December 10.30-11.15am - 'A Saviour, who is Christ the Lord'

Do you find the Christmas season too complicated? too commercial? too confusing? whilst Christmas can seem all these things, it can also be simple, because: "..at the right time, God sent forth His Son.. ." ".. a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord" A very warm welcome to all who are able to join us

AMF

New Farm Chapel, New Farm Road, Alresford, Hants, SO24 9QH

New Farm Chapel, New Farm Road, Alresford, Hants, SO24 9QH

Tel: 01962 851299 www.newfarmchapel.org.uk

Tel: 01962 851299 www.newfarmchapel.org.uk

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Christmas at New Farm Chapel, Alresford 2017

COMMU N IT Y P R OP ER T Y MA N AG EMENT ISSUE 134 | DECEMBER

Community NEW BUSES AND NEW TIMES FOR WINCHESTER ROUTE 64

Front row left to right Peter Shelley Head of Passenger Transport Hampshire County Council, Mayor of Alton Dean Phillips, Deputy Mayor of Winchester City Frank Pearson, Edward Hodgson Managing Director of Stagecoach South.

S

tagecoach South has invested well over £1million in 6 brand new double deck buses for its Winchester route 64. The brand new British built Enviro 400 MMC vehicles are state of the art with USB charging points at every seat, free wifi, luxury seating and the latest smart technology to minimise emissions.

Together with the new buses, there are also exciting improvements to the timetable with extra evening journeys, and double the number of buses on Sundays and Public Holidays with a full hourly frequency.

Route 64 provides a direct service linking Winchester city centre, Alresford, Ropley, Four Marks & Alton where it connects with South Western Railway services offering convenient connections to London.

Managing Director Edward Hodgson, said ‘It’s fantastic to not only be launching new buses on the route 64 but to be improving the timetable at the same time. The route is very direct, almost the same way you would drive to Winchester in your car, but travelling by bus you don’t need to worry about finding a place to park and you can use the journey to catch up online with our free WiFi and USB charging sockets. With the increase in evening journeys especially at this time of year people can go out and enjoy an evening with friends without worrying about driving home. It’s also cheaper by bus too, with our nightrider ticket which allows unlimited travel on any Stagecoach bus for just £2.50 after 7pm. The new hourly service on Sunday’s makes it ideal for a family shopping trip or to enjoy a day at the Science Centre & Planetarium, or visit a pub for lunch at one of the picturesque villages along the route.

We believe that these improvements will encourage more people to choose the bus as their preferred mode of travel, and we hope that customers will enjoy travelling on the new buses.’

To celebrate the launch of the new vehicles the buses were unveiled on Monday 13 November at Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium, which also cements a new partnership between the attraction and Bus Company on encouraging greener travel in the area. Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium will be offering 25% off admission when people travel to the centre by bus or bike.

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ASHBURTON GROVE, NEWLY BUILT

A

ALRESFORD HOMES FOR SALE shburton Grove is a select development of just two semi-detached two bedroom homes in New Alresford, Hampshire. Ready for occupation in January 2018, the new homes are available to buy through shared ownership, also known as ‘part-buy, part-rent’, and are being developed by Winchester City Council. Shared ownership is the affordable way to help people onto the property ladder, whether as a first-time buyer or as somebody who wants to get back into home ownership.

So, what’s on offer at Ashburton Grove? Both of the new homes feature contemporary living areas, stylish well-planned fitted kitchens with a Bosch stainless steel electric single oven, two double bedrooms and a fully enclosed private garden with patio and garden shed. The homes are designed to be energy efficient and include photovoltaic solar roof panels.

Located on Ashburton Road, Ashburton Grove in Alresford, it’s a great new location to set-up home, with Alresford’s independent shops, tea rooms and schools all just a short walk away. Conveniently situated 7.5 miles from Winchester and 12 miles from Alton with easy access to the M3 and A31.

The price for a 50% share is £150,000 based on the full market value £300,000 with a rent of £343.75 payable on the share not owned.

Other share options are available and service charges are in addition.

For more information please call Hellards, our selling agents on 01962 736333 or email alresford@hellards.co.uk.

OE T WB L LY A N IL O VA A

Ashburton Grove

Country living in a brand new home...

A select development of just two semi-detached two bedroom homes in New Alresford, Hampshire, developed

by Winchester City Council.

Available to buy through shared ownership Contemporary living areas

PLOT 7 THE ALRE

Contact our selling agents:

Stylish fitted kitchens

01962 736333

Two double bedrooms

Email alresford@hellards.co.uk

Fully enclosed private garden with patio and garden shed Designed to be energy efficient Easy access to the M3 and A31

PLOT 8 THE ITCHEN

Prices from £150,000 (50% share)* Ready to move in from January 2018 *Shared Ownership - Part-Buy, Part-Rent. Price based on a 50% share of £300,000 full market value. Monthly rent of £343.75 payable on the share not owned. Other share options available. Service charges are in addition. Prices correct November 2017

9

All Alresford about Alresford All Alresford All about

Sales, Lettings and Property Management | Call 01962 736333 for a free market appra Sales, Lettings and Property Management | Call 01962 736333 for a free market appraisal

ALRESFORD ALRESFORD ALRESFORD ALRESFORD ALRESFORD ALRESFORD Guide Price: £197,500 | EPC Rating: D Guide Price: £345,000 | EPC Rating: D Guide Price: £365,000 | EPC Ra Guide Price: £197,500 | EPC Rating: D Guide Price: £345,000 | EPC Rating: D Guide Price: £365,000 | EPC Rating: B

ALRESFORD WEST STRATTON MARTYR WORTHY ALRESFORD WEST STRATTON MARTYR WORTHY Guide Price: £470,000 | EPC Rating: D Guide Price: £645,000 | EPC Rating: F Guide Price: £1,400,000 | EPC Ra Guide Price: £470,000 | EPC Rating: D Guide Price: £645,000 | EPC Rating: F Guide Price: £1,400,000 | EPC Rating: TBA

Wishing all our clients and Forum Magazine readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Planning a move in 2018? For realistic and professional advice, call one of our friendly team today on 01962 73633 PRESTON CANDOVER ALRESFORD

ALRESFORD PRESTON CANDOVER ALRESFORD ALRESFORD Guide Price: £1,250,000 | EPC Rating: C Guide Price: £399,950 | EPC Rating: D Guide Price: £675,000 | EPC Ra Guide Price: £1,250,000 | EPC Rating: C Guide Price: £399,950 | EPC Rating: D Guide Price: £675,000 | EPC Rating: D

11 Broad Street, Alresford SO24 9AR | alresford@hellards.co.uk | www.hellards.co.uk

11 Broad Street, Alresford SO24 9AR | alresford@hellards.co.uk | www.hellards.co.u 11 Broad Street, Alresford SO24 9AR | alresford@hellards.co.uk | www.hellards.co.uk

ALRESFORD For Sale: £499.950 | EPC Rating: B

BROWN CANDOVER For Sale: £565,000 | EPC Rating: F

ALRESFORD For Sale: £299,950 | EPC Rating: D

ALRESFORD For Sale: £450,000 | EPC Rating: D

ALRESFORD For Sale: £850,000 | EPC Rating: E

FOUR MARKS For Sale: £1,100,000 | EPC Rating: C

KINGWORTHY To Let: £1,100pcm | EPC Rating: D

ITCHEN ABBAS To Let: £3,500pcm | EPC Rating: F

ROPLEY For Sale: £725,000 | EPC Rating: E

ROPLEY For Sale: £475,000 | EPC Rating: E

SWARRATON To Let: £1,800pcm | EPC Rating: C

ALRESFORD For Sale: £465,000 | EPC Rating: E

FEATU R E ISSUE 134 | DECEMBER

Hampshire Mum A Cornish Goose

BY SANDRA PAGAN

H

alf term hailed a second and unexpected week’s holiday in the glorious West Country. Undaunted by the prospect of hurricane Bruce, or Bobby or someone, colliding with us on the A30, we set off and some seven hours later- serves us right for travelling on a Friday afternoon- arrived at beautiful Port Navas.

We were met on the creek-side by husband of Country Cousin and one of the Immaculate In-Laws who guided we four Pagans up the steep drive and though a wood of twisted oaks, before thrusting two large gin and tonics in our hands in the kitchen of the beautiful West Wing at Callamansac.This would do nicely. A Hamptons style house overlooking the Helford River, large enough to accommodate all eight of us, and two dogs, with room to spare. Heaven on a stick!

So as the lazy family holiday stretched out before us, it was decided that the husband of Country Cousin, the Immaculate, BrotherIn-Law, Star I and The Husband would go and play with their sticks and little white balls on the links course at Mullion.This left Country Cousin, Immaculate Sister-In-Law, Star II,The Pagan Pup and new canine GF Saffron and I to explore the delights of the National Trust haven that is Trelisick.

The weather was nowhere as dire as predicted, so we wandered happily along the Woodland Walk, paused to look at the King Harry ferry and made our way back to the gallery and, of course, the café.

Coffee and a slice of heaven or maybe two….

Being dutiful wives, and with Prosecco calling, we felt we should head back through the labyrinth of lanes to prepare supper for our men. (Really?).

Anyway that was the plan until…. “ Oh my god! I LOVE that!” Screamed Country Cousin.

‘Eh?’ And there it was, a life size metal goose, wings tucked neatly to its side and head tilted as if recovering from the shock of being forcefed for pâté du foie gras.

Country Cousin thought long and hard.Well, for at least three minutes, and was encouraged by myself and the Immaculate In-Law

12

saying that at £45 pounds it was cheap at half the price. So, there we were, standing in the queue at the National Trust shop, me with a large goose under my arm while she searched for her debit card.

‘That will take a lot of stuffing’, quipped another customer.

Indeed.

With the transaction complete and the goose looking curious on the counter, the assistant looked at us, and we looked at her. Silence. I felt sure she may put out a request, ‘Twenty meters of bubble wrap to till four please’, but no, the assistant clearly had not a clue as how to gift wrap a goose.

No matter, within minutes ‘Goosey’ as Country Cousin had named him, was in the back of the car accompanied by two disgruntled dogs who wondered why this new impolite poultry was so aloof.

Country Cousin was in love with ‘Goosey”, unfortunately her husband was not. “ You paid how much! You know I hate metal birds! It’s not coming home with us!”

‘Yes, but think how lovely he’ll look peeping out behind the rhododendron’.

No amount of girlie persuasion could convince him that ‘Goosey’ was indeed a thing of sculptural beauty and on the day of departure it sat forlorn on the drive before being rammed into the boot.

Now I realise that these days if you venture west then you must be prepared that it will take time that is disproportionate to distance.

It may well be a journey of only two hundred and fifty miles but it will take you in excess of seven hours. So, with tiredness kicking in, I could have sworn I saw Goosey abandoned in a layby on the A303!

No ………surely not?

Country Cousin reassured me, however, by sending a photo of ‘Goosey’ happily in pride of place in the centre of their garden pond.

A thought occurred, as husband of Country Cousin is a crack shot at the clay pigeon, a large metal goose would be an easy target…

Sandra Pagan

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Community DISTRIBUTING SURPLUS FOOD OR HELPING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY OR WASTE NOT, WANT NOT?

T

he charity FareShare is working with the Tesco store in Alresford to ensure that food which is no longer suitable for sale is distributed around the local community to people who can benefit from it. Basically, the food has reached its ‘sell by date’, and is surplus to their requirements. FareShare and Tesco wish to see that this food is not wasted, but distributed to anyone who needs it.

The Giles Group’s objective is to provide people in Alresford who have a disability of any form with a place to discuss problems and find sympathetic advice from people who have faced similar problems. It also acts as a meeting place for the members, who gather once a month for an afternoon, to exchange ideas and listen to visiting speakers – who often represent organisations that are relevant to the disabled in the town. Problems experienced by the members are collected, and referred to the local Council when relevant: such things as better road crossings, repairs to broken pavements and installation of dropped kerbs have been positive results. The Group also provides a source for locating mobility aids, fluorescent jackets and items for help around the house. In cooperation with the Alresford Pigs and others, mobility aids like Zimmer frames, wheelchairs, ‘Rollator’ walkers and even mobility scooters are regularly re-cycled amongst the Giles membership.

Various local community groups have undertaken to distribute the food according to FareShare principles. Two of the first organisations to sign up in Alresford were the Giles Group and the ADCA, the Alresford & District Community Association. The Giles Group is arranging to distribute the surplus Tesco food which is available on Tuesday mornings, from their ‘drop-in’ coffee morning held every week in the Community Centre from 1030 until noon. Any food remaining is then delivered to the Makins Court Common Room at around 1230. On Fridays, the food available from Tesco is distributed

After 23 years working for the disabled in the town, the Giles Group is delighted to have been awarded the Alresford Society’s Silver Salver Award for 2018, in recognition of the assistance provided to the community over this time. Founder member, Tessa Purkiss, attended the recent AGM of the Alresford Society to receive the award from their Chairman, Jan Field. Tessa was accompanied by Clive Earthy, a long term member of the Giles Committee, and the current Treasurer. Clive and Tessa stressed that Giles membership is open to anyone who feels they could benefit, and is only run for the benefit of the members – currently 35 in total. New members are always welcome. Membership is only £15 a year, as the Group receives some external support – e.g. from the NATC and from occasional donations.

A TRIBUTE TO KEN YELDHAM

HINTON AMPNER - BROTHERS GRIMM

T

he New Alresford Town Trust would like to pay its tribute to Ken Yeldham who died on 30th October 2017. In October 2005 when the co-opted Trustees resigned en masse, Ken became the Chair of NATT and with fellow Trustees, Len Orton, Peter Middleton and myself, saved the Trust from extinction.

The Trust was left with no employees and inexperienced Trustees.

Not only did Ken rebuild a team of hard working Trustees to look after the Minibus, Market and The Avenue, but the Trust took over the full responsibility for the collapsed Eel House in Summer 2006. The Eel House project has been most successful with over 7,400 people visiting the restored building since 2009. Ken believed in the ancient rights being preserved and was a leading supporter of ensuring the Pinglestone Road crossing over the River Arle remained a right of way.

Ken served as both a Trustee and Town Councillor for many years and the Community owe him a debt of gratitude, not least for saving the Town Trust, which now, as an independent organisation, is a thriving and positive local Charity.

Ken, who was a keen cricketer, played a long and important innings.

ROBIN ATKINS - NATT Chair

ST JOHN'S CHURCH - CHRISTMAS TREE OF REMEMBRANCE

Y

ou are warmly invited to come and place a star on this tree in memory of someone who will be especially in your thoughts this Christmas time. This is a very positive way of remembering a loved one. There are stars next to the tree and you simply need to write the name of the person you are remembering on one of them. The tree will be in church from Monday 4th December until the New Year. There will also be a very short service of prayers around this tree at 12.30 on Saturday December 16th.

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to those who attend the ADCA coffee morning, also held in the Community Centre.

FAIRY TALE CHRISTMAS

T

his Christmas, the ground floor show rooms of this beautiful country house are transformed into scenes from classic fairy tales such as Rapunzel, Cinderella, and Red Riding Hood.

This year’s show was inspired by Hinton’s former owner Ralph Dutton, who would invite the village children up to the house at Christmas for festive storytelling and puppet shows. Alongside the sparkle you’ll discover magnificent floral displays created by Hinton’s volunteer florists, and Hinton’s famous miniature mice, in fairy tale fancy dress costumes. An outdoor family trail has 25 fairy tale secrets to discover, hidden behind Advent Calendar boxes (£2 per trail).

House : 2nd to 23rd Dec. only 11.00 am to 3.30 pm daily Grounds for Advent Calendar Family Trail : 2nd to 31st Dec. (Closed 24th and 25th Dec.) 10.00 am to 4.00 pm daily Normal admission prices apply plus £2 per trail Hinton Ampner, Bramdean, Nr Alresford, Hampshire SO24 0LA Saturday 2 Dec 2017 to Sunday 31 Dec 2017 Contact telephone: 01962771305

G A R DEN I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

GARDEN G EORGE C ANN MA Y

Seasons Greetings and Best Wishes for 2018

C HIN E R

Steve, Jill and the staff at George Cann Garden Machinery would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas.

Thank you for your custom - we look forward to seeing you in the coming year.

For any sales or servicing requirements please call 01962 771800 or email: steve.cann@btconnect.com

FOR ALL YOUR PEST CONTROL NEEDS: Rats, Mice, Moles, Squirrels, Cockroaches, Rabbits, Pigeons, Bird-Proofing, Mole Trapping Specialist

Call Peter Chivers on: 01256 389124 or Mobile: 07803 096642

ALL AREAS COVERED

Espalier, pleached and instant impact hedges

ALL AREAS COVERED

Supply and planting large specimen trees and shrubs

PETER CHIVERS PCS

BPCA MEMBER - FULLY INSURED 9 STENBURY DRIVE, PRESTON CANDOVER, BASINGSTOKE

All trees and shrubs carefully selected Design, landscaping and ongoing maintenance Free site visit and consultation

ROPLEY TREES PROFESSIONAL TREE CARE

Bosque is a trading name of Just Limegrass Ltd. Harko: 07710 502798 Tom: 07855 656984 www.bosque international.co.uk

SINCE 1987, SPARSHOLT TRAINED FULLY QUALIFIED AND INSURED CALL LYNDN GAUNTLETT:

TEL 01962 791180 15

PR OMOTION ISSUE 134 | DECEMBER

Christmas Legends

D

o you know that many Christmas traditions have pagan origins very strongly linked to nature and our landscape? The Pagan winter solstice goes back thousands of years when evergreen trees were brought into the home and decorated with wax candles to create light symbolizing the sun, moon and stars.

Called Yule trees and along with the simple decorations of holly and candles, this festival marked the darkest days of winter. Interestingly, and also linked with nature, another legend associated with the winter solstice is that of the annual ‘battle of the Oak and Holly Kings ‘where the Oak King overcomes the Holly King to reign until the summer solstice.

The Show Begins

So the event of the Christmas tree as we know it today evolved slowly over the centuries. The first known Christmas tree went up in the UK at Windsor Castle in 1800. Small wax candles, apples, nuts, dates, sweets and coloured paper flowers decorated and added light to the branches.

It was an associate inventor of Edison’s who created the first set of electrical Christmas lights and in 1890, the Edison company published a brochure offering lighting services for Christmas. By 1900, commercial premises were beginning to string up lights in their shop windows. An Edison advert at that time offered bulbs, which you could rent, along with their lighting system for use over the festive season.

Fairy Lights

Small Christmas lights only became known as fairy lights after the light opera company D’Oyle Carte in 1882 used tiny incandescent lights in the hair of their players in a comic production about an immortal band of fairies. However, it would be another century before fairy lights came into more general use because until the mid 1950’s most households, either did not have electricity or could not afford it. This meant that until this time, it was still very popular to use candles to light up Christmas trees.

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White Christmas

In recent years, it is rare that we see a white Christmas. It was the Victorians who first used illustrated snow scenes at Christmas. Not least because of Charles Dickens timely story ‘A Christmas Carol’. Also, Britain was still in the middle of a mini ice age with many of the Victorian winters seeing substantial snowfall. In 1836 on the 25th December, snow depths reached 15 feet with drifts of up to 50 feet!

Themed Christmas Trees

Seasonal décor is becoming increasingly sophisticated and it is on-trend to have trees dressed not only singular colours or a maximum of two colours, but also as a theme. There are decorations and baubles that symbolise style, humour, vintage items, toys and animals. We can now have trees to keep both the adults and the children happy!

We can recreate the atmosphere of a white Christmas with a silver and white tree or amuse the children with a red and green tree decorated with imps and elves! Or indulge in some nostalgia from a more recent bygone age and make a vintage tree adorned with the bright ornaments and tinsel of four decades ago.

Inspired by Nature

It seems current festive trends reflect a strong demand for man made decorations and artificial trees, which are very difficult to tell from the real thing.Yet, the simplicity and special touch of nature still inspires us.

So we use a combination of both contemporary decorations and foliage we can gather from our gardens and the landscape. Holly and ivy to drape over mantelpieces, wreaths of evergreen branches to adorn doors and casual bunches of mistletoe to hang in halls.

It seems, in the midst of the winter solstice, we still have a hankering to return to the ancient world of nature, which of course, was the very reason, so long ago, those pagan and mid winter, traditions first began.

Hambrooks of Titchfield 01489 572285

G A R DEN I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

professional, friendly tree & garden services All aspects of tree surgery undertaken Felling & Woodland management fencing • garden services • hedge cutting tpo applications • storm damage utilities • fully qualified & insured

free no obligation quotes

TEL: 07456 232389 enquiries@willow-tree-care.com www.willow-tree-care.com

Complete Garden Construction Professional Garden Design & Construction

LANDSCAPING & BRICKWORK SERVICES • GARDEN MAKEOVERS • PATIOS & DRIVEWAYS TURFING & FENCING • FLINTWORK • GARDEN MAINTENANCE (LAWNS , HEDGES ETC ) AND GARDEN CLEARANCE ALL WORK UNDERTAKEN BY EXPERIENCED LOCAL TRADESMEN LOCAL SHOW GARDENS & REFERENCES AVAILABLE

OFFICE: 01962 735750 MOBILE: 07766 900092

geoff_amey@btinternet.com www.completegardenconstruction.co.uk

Chris Matthews Tree Care and Woodland Management • Tree surgery / TPO applications • Hedge maintenance • Fencing / Garden structures • Woodland management / tree planting Qualified in arboriculture and countrsyide management. 15 years experience

Tel: 01962 732498 Mob: 07879 448141

C&D Trees All Tree & Hedge Care

Sparsholt college trained & qualified Free advice & written quotations 15 years experience

www.cdtrees.co.uk

Telephone - 01962 738 420 - 07900 987 609 Bishops Sutton, Alresford

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Wellbeing

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ALRESFORD SURGERY NEWS

Christmas & New Year We wish everyone a very happy Christmas – please make sure you have sufficient supplies of your usual medications to last over the holiday period which you can order in a number of ways; • In person at the surgery • By post • By fax (01962 736034) • Via Patient Access (www.patient.co.uk/access) The surgery will be closed on 25 and 26 December and 1 January. If you need urgent medical care you can access the Out of Hours service for advice, a face to face appointment or, if it is necessary, a home visit. The number to call is 111.

111 is the NHS non-emergency number. It’s fast, easy and free. Call 111 and speak to a highly trained adviser, supported by healthcare professionals. They will ask you a series of questions to assess your symptoms and immediately direct you to the best medical care for you.

NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones.

If you take regular medications please make sure you have enough to see you over the festive period and please place requests with us in good time if repeats will be needed. If you have family coming to stay with you remind them not to forget their medicines.

A Guide to our Appointment System As a practice we undertake over 50,000 patient consultations every year. Some consultations are for new illnesses while others are for continuing or lifelong conditions. It is a massive challenge to match the needs of our patients to the supply of appointments.

We understand that over recent months our patients have been finding it increasingly difficult to book an appointment. We have been working hard to address this problem and as such, we have made a few changes to our appointment book.

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Appointment Types 1. Telephone appointments – a telephone call can often save time for patients and doctors. Telephone appointments are booked consultations and can be a highly effective way of dealing with a number of routine problems and reviews of ongoing conditions. These are bookable 14 days in advance.

2. Face to face appointments – routine appointments are now bookable 14 days in advance.

3. Urgent (same day) appointments – our highly effective duty system allows us to treat patients who have illnesses which need to be dealt with as a matter of urgency. All requests for urgent treatment will be initially followed up with a telephone call from our duty team.

4. Home visits - If you are too ill to attend the surgery please phone the surgery before 10am and be prepared to give some details of your condition. You will be asked to speak to our trained nurses who will assess your needs.

5. Nurse appointments – our nurses offer a full range of treatment room services as well as clinics for those with long term health conditions such as; diabetes, asthma, COPD, vascular disease and other chronic conditions. If you have one of these conditions you will receive an invitation to book an appointment at our nurse led Better Health clinics.

Booking Your Appointment

There are several ways of booking your appointment: 1. In person – our reception desk is open from 8.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday.

2.

By phone – Mondays and Fridays are our busiest days for telephone calls, especially in the mornings. Unless your call is urgent please try phoning at another time. We understand that many people are reluctant to tell a receptionist about the reason for their call; however, our reception staff are trained to help guide you to the most appropriate appointment for your needs. In addition, all our staff have a legal responsibility to treat your information confidentially.

3.

Online – you can book routine appointments online as well as ordering repeat prescriptions. Online services are available 24 hours a day so you can use these services at your own convenience. You will need to register to use the online services – please ask a receptionist or see our website for more information.

And finally, please don’t miss an appointment you have booked. Every month we have approximately 80 – 100 wasted appointments which could have been offered to another patient.

If you can’t make your appointment or need to change it please let us know.

May we wish you all a very happy Christmas and a healthy New Year.

The Alresford Surgery, Station Road, Alresford, SO24 9JL Telephone: 01962 732345 Website: www.alresfordsurgery.co.uk

Tuesdays 6.15pm

Available to all residents living in the Winchester district with a landline telephone connection

from 16th January onwards

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BRAND NEW BEGINNERS CLASS STARTING

WELLBEIN G

WANT TO TRY PILATES IN 2018?

Vulnerable relative or friend?

Alone for long periods of time?

Places limited and allocated on 'a first come first served basis'

Call/Text: 07771 522665 Email: sallyhogg@btinternet.com www.alresford pilates.co.uk

The Studio: 26A The Dean, Alresford, SO24 9AZ

Turn their telephone into a lifeline allowing them to call for assistance with the press of a button • No more struggling to get to the phone • Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year • Friendly operators with access to named contacts and emergency services • Neck Pendants available • One button to activate

• Less than 50p a day For more details contact Winchester Lifeline  01962 855335  Lifeline@winchester.gov.uk

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The Oratorio is a collection of six separate cantatas that were intended for performance on six feast days during the Christmas period.

The first, for Christmas Day, describes the Birth of Jesus; the second, for December 26, the annunciation to the shepherds; followed by the adoration of the shepherds; the naming of Jesus; the journey of the Magi; and finally the adoration of the Magi for performance on Epiphany. Bach's working of the narrative is so skilful that when performed as a single piece they form a complete entity. All six complete, however, makes for a colossal work usually split across two concerts, so the Waynflete Singers will be performing the Oratorio with the traditional cuts made when given as a single piece.

WAYNFLETE : CHRISTMAS ORATORIO

The Waynflete Singers are pleased to welcome back tenor Benjamin Hulett and bass-baritone Neal Davies. They are joined by countertenor David Allsopp, making his first appearance with the choir. They are also delighted to welcome for the first time the exciting young soprano Rowan Pierce who was the overall Winner of this year’s Grange Festival International Singing Competition (formerly the Hampshire Singing Competition).

seasonal celebration takes place on Saturday 9 December at 7.30pm in Winchester Cathedral. Join Winchester’s Waynflete Singers for their annual Christmas Concert when they will perform one of Bach’s finest large-scale choral works – the Christmas Oratorio.

The Cathedral’s Christmas Market and Ice Rink will also be in full swing in the adjacent Cathedral Close adding to the atmosphere and excitement of this Christmas Celebration.

Booking is now open: special offer on midprice tickets is available 2 for 1 (£19.50) Tickets £39.50, £32.50, £24.50, £19.50 (2 for 1) £12.50

CU LTURE ISSUE 134 | DECEMBER

Culture

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Following the success of their performance of the monumental B Minor Mass earlier in the year, the Waynflete Singers plan to once again fill the nave of the Cathedral with this classic Christmas music for voices and orchestra, which tells the Christmas story woven into a

DO YOU ENJOY SINGING?

sequence of cantatas with jubilant choruses, heart-stirring arias and, of course, festive trumpets.

They will be joined once again by acclaimed period instrument ensemble Florilegium with whom they continue to enjoy a flourishing association and the whole event will be under the direction of the Cathedral’s Director of Music, Andrew Lumsden.

Soloists are Rowan Pierce (soprano – Winner, 2017 Grange Festival International Singing Competition), David Allsopp (alto), Benjamin Hulett (tenor), Neal Davies (bass)

THE NATIVITY SCENE AT ALL SAINTS CHURCH, HINTON AMPNER

I

f the answer is YES do come and join us. We are a friendly Choral Society who rehearse weekly on Wednesday evenings at The Itchen Abbas Village Hall. We especially would like to hear from Tenor and Soprano voices but welcome anyone who enjoys singing. No audition is required just come along at 7.45pm. Start the New Year with a resolution you will be happy to keep. Please contact Lynda - lynda@geoffdenyer-violins.co.uk for more information or just turn up on the evening, you’ll be made very welcome.

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“No room at the Inn,” and not much in the stable, with Shepherds, Magi, Mary, Joseph, the heavenly host and a baby using the manager as a cot! But, there is always room for you in our delightful little Saxon Church, at this important time in the Christian year, to see

Box Office 01962 857275 www.tickets.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Waynflete Singers: Registered Charity No. 285107 www.waynfletesingers.org.uk

our Nativity Scene and much else besides.

You are very welcome to join us for the Services at Hinton Ampner too, and for Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Take home a memento of your visit and share it with family and friends. Christmas Cards of this beautiful nativity scene with “Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year” are now on sale at: All Saints Church, Hinton Ampner and Cheriton Post Office and Stores. They work out at just 60p each in bundles of 10 or 80p for a single Christmas card. Profits will be used for: the regular maintenance of All Saints Church, the installation of a sound and audio loop system, and improvements to our church lighting.

Details of all our Christmas Services and the many activities in the Upper Itchen Benefice are in www.upperitchen.org and there’s definitely room at the Inn for you!

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Culture

MAYOR OF WINCHESTER ATTENDS BOOK LAUNCH

Exhibition A 60th Anniversary celebration of the Mouth & Foot Painting Association. 2017 marks the 60th anniversary of this organisation. The founder, Erich Stegmann, believed that disabled artists should be able to make a living from their artwork just like their able-bodied counterparts.

Today, with over 800 disabled artists in 80 countries around the globe, the MFPA is one of the largest Associations of its kind. 2nd – 23rd December - Free Jill Line The Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery, Alton (01420 82802) www.hampshireculturaltrust.org.uk

HAMPSHIRE ARTIST SEEKING TO RAISE £7,500 HAS ACHIEVED HIS TARGET

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he Mayor of Winchester, Councillor David Mclean, attended the launch of a newly revised and updated book about Bishop’s Waltham, written by local author Alan Inder. The book launch took place at the Anvil Tearooms – one of the eye-catching buildings in town that is featured in the book. Called “The Changing Face of Bishop’s Waltham”, the first edition was published in 2011 but rapidly sold out. This newly updated edition has additional content and fresh photographs.

The book shows how change has come to one of Hampshire’s medieval market towns – particularly over the last 150 years. The 108page book, in A4 landscape format, contains hundreds of “then and now” photographs and dozens of maps (dating back to 1841) with a detailed text to explain the changes.

Published by the Bishop’s Waltham Society and the Bishop’s Waltham Museum Trust, the book is designed to provide local residents with a sense of their town’s development and how it has changed over time.

It is a great spur for conversation between children and their parents and grandparents who remember the changes they have seen in their lifetime. Priced at just £16, its publication is timed to provide a great Christmas present for families.

For further information contact Tony Kippenberger (Chairman of the Bishop’s Waltham Society) on 01489 893473 or Alan Inder, the author, on 01489 894051

THE CURTIS MUSEUM & ALLEN GALLERY Allen Gallery

Children’s Art Competition Calling children aged 5-11 who love Art. We would like you to enter a drawing or painting on the theme of Books & Stories. This could be based on your favourite book, your favourite character, or a comic book story. Or made up, it’s up to you. There are two categories: 5-7 years and 8-11 years. A winner will be chosen from each category. The work should be no larger than A4. Please put your name and age on the back. Closing date for entries is 3rd January. Entry is free. Your work could be displayed in the Gallery café area for people to see from 4 – 27 January. (Please note there will be a selection process for Café display; all remaining work will go into a folder display. Artwork will need to be collected after 27th January.)

Christmas Make-and-Take 19th December 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm - Drop into the Allen Gallery and take away your very own seasonal creation. Children must be accompanied by an adult. £3 per activity pack.

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Nativity 2016 by Pete Colding

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Southsea artist looking for £7,500 to fund a major solo Christmas exhibition in Oxford this December has achieved his target and more. Pete Codling has already raised £7,810 from 45 supporters at https://www. crowdfunder.co.uk/naivety “The money raised will go to framing 15 large charcoal drawings,” explains Pete, who has 20 days remaining to raise the money. Pete makes large fragile charcoal drawings on paper measuring 7ft by 4ft and these each cost £500 to frame. “By fragile I mean it is just carefully arranged dust on paper,” says Pete. “They will be hung in a public gallery with a footfall of over 10,000 people.”

He adds: “The exhibition title Naivety is a play on the traditional Christmas 'Nativity' scene. The new work was inspired by the sketch 'Nativity 2016'. This was a personal response to the tragedy and horrors of Aleppo (and other cities) that we consumed as the norm on our Christmas TV news last year. It inspired me to create many more artworks along this theme. The artworks are a mix of traditional, classical, mythological and surreal with a contemporary twist.”

The Naivety exhibition takes place at North Wall Gallery, Oxford from December 5 to January 6 with a private view on Saturday, December 16.

For more information contact Pete on: Tel. 0750310565 Email. petecodling@hotmail.co.uk Web. www.petecodling.com

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HAIR & BEAUTY

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Closed 9.00 - 5.30 9.00 - 7.00 9.00 - 8.00 9.00 - 5.30 9.00 - 5.00 Closed

Find us on Facebook and Instagram

To make an appointment please call Tel: 01962 733100 www.alresfordhaircare.co.uk 18 West Street, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9AT

Luxury Christmas Special - £90

PrettyWoman Luxury Beauty Salon

Usual price £125, Save £35!

ESPA Full Body Massage for the ultimate in relaxation.

Re-Hydrator Facial with replenishing treatment oils to deeply moisturise.

Luxury Hand Treatment with Hot Mitts.

Christmas Special - £65

Usual price £92, Save £27!

ESPA Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage for deep relaxation.

Rehydrating Facial, perfect for the Winter months.

Luxury Hand Treatment with Hot Mitts.

Shellac - £25

Save £5! On Fingers or Toes

HiBrow! - £20

Save £5! Including Eyebrow Tint & Shape Vouchers available for the perfect Christmas Gift Late evening appointments and Online Booking available

Alresford: 01962 736888 Alton: 01420 541888 www.pretty-woman-salon.co.uk

5 E A S T S T R E E T, A L R ES F O R D , S O 24 9 E E 9 A M A R K E T S T R E E T, A LTO N , G U 3 4 1 H A

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COMMU N IT Y ISSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Clubs & Societies

65+ SPORTS & FITNESS O ACA Badminton Club For more information contact: Call Clive Earthy: 01962 733812 O Alresford Badminton Club For more information contact: Contact: Martin Brickwood, email: brickwoods@talktalk.net Phone:02380 693711

O Cheriton Tennis Club For more information contact: Donna at Don Perrin Tennis: 07928 855175. www. cheritontennisclub.co.uk O Children’s Judo Club For more information contact: Lance Wicks - Telephone: 07787 565233 Email: lw@ judocoach.com O Cyclists’ Touring Club For more information contact: Tel: 01962 864479 www.southhampshirectc.org.uk

O Alresford Bowling Club For more information contact: Barry Morgan (club secretary) 01962 733477 and on the club www.alresfordbowlingclub.org.uk

O Fitique Run Club For more information contact Melissa (07708) 532210 / sales@ fitique.co.uk Facebook page: Fitique Run Club

O Ropley Bowling Club For more information contact Gill Moore on: 01420 563139 gillianfmoore@yahoo.co.uk

O Fitique Women’s Cycle Club For more information contact Victoria on (01962) 733154 victoria@fitique.co.uk

O Alresford Golf Club For more information contact Tel: 01962 733746. secretary @alresfordgolf.co.uk www.alresfordgolf.co.uk

O Judo Club For more information contact: Steve Fullick, 10 Perins Close, Alresford Tel: 01962 732883

O Alresford Netball Club For more information contact Donna: 01420 561755 or 07860 931150 donnabirtles@fsmail.net O Alresford Rugby Football Club For more information contact: Seniors’ Head Coach: 07964 423001. Minis contact: alresfordminisrugby@gmail.com or visit www.alresfordrfc.co.uk

O Old Alresford Cricket Club For more information contact: John Stanbrook: 01962 733612 or Mike Armitage: 07878008853 Tel: 01420 568135 act4health@hotmail.com O Practical Wing Chun Classes For more information contact: Contact Gary: 07986 298283 or see www.uctuk.co.uk

O Alresford Tennis Club For more information contact: Howard Lewis on 01962 733818

O Ropley Tennis Club For more information visit: www.ropleytennis.org.uk

O Alresford Yacht Club For more information contact: Contact Valerie: 01962 808827 valeriej.powell@tiscali.co.uk

O Tai Chi For more information contact: call: 02380 651223 or email taichienquiries@gmail.com

O Chawton Park Indoor Bowls Club For more information contact: Chawton Park Road, Alton.

Tel: 01420 541546

O Tichborne Park Cricket Club For more information contact: Andy Joyce on Tel: 01962 734316 andypjoyce@hotmail.com

O Cheriton Cricket Club For more information contact:

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Wessexmaturedancers@gmail.com Wessexmaturedancers.co.uk

Nick: 07931 456214 info@cheritoncc.com www.cheritoncc.com

65+

MUSIC & DANCE O Alresford Community Choir (ACC) For more information visit: www.alresfordchoir.com O Alresford Ukulele Jam For more information visit: alresfordukejam@outlook.com Tel: 01962 710385 http://facebook.com/ AlresfordUkeJam O Bishops Sutton Handbell Ringing Team For more information contact: 01962 736211 O Four Marks Folk Band For more information contact: Peter Treacher on: 01420 562794 O Minden Rose Garland Dancers For more information contact Imelda on: 01962 773487/07762 902143 to check we will be there.

O The Candover Valley Bell Ringers For more information contact Carol: 01256 389387 O The Cheriton Singers For more information call 01962 771796 or visit www. cheritonsingers.hampshire.org.uk O The Medstead Players For more information contact: Lesley Rae, Fiver, High Street, Medstead.Tel: 01420 56563916 www.medsteadplayers.co.uk O The Waynflete Singers For more information visit: waynflete.hampshire.org.uk O Winchester Music Club For more information visit: ww.winchestermusicclub.org.uk O Wessex Mature Dancers Classes held in Alresford, Bishop's Waltham and Winchester including the new RAD Silver Swans! Tel. Maureen on 07817 502260

O Zumba Classes For more information contact Tel: 079474 10394 www.zumbaaround-winchester.com or sue@ plays-r-ussell.com O Zumba Classes Bramdean Village Hall Every Thursday 6pm to 7pm.

Zumba Kids (Aged 8 to 13) Alresford St. Gregory Church Hall, 1 Grange Rd, SO24 9HD every Monday 4.45pm to 5.30pm.

More details www.murielezumba. com Tel. 07821 545403

ARTS & CRAFTS O Alresford Area Craft Club For more information contact: Sandy: 01962 732995

65+

O Alresford Art Society For more information visit: www.artsociety.alresford.org Tel: 01962 736751 artsociety@ alresford.org O A.C.T.S - Alresford Community Theatre Society For more information contact Debbie: 01962 732055 markwick34@gmail.com O The Cheriton Players For more information visit: www.facebook.com/groups/ 120589672533. Or contact David Cradduck: 01962 771700 www.thecheritonplayers.org.uk O Wessex Sculptors For more information contact: Carole Scobling: 01962 771259

Residential

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Nursing • Respite • Palliative Care Situated in the picturesque area of Sleepers Hill in Winchester, with stunning views across St Catherine’s Hill in Winchester lies Westacre Care Home. Our Edwardian home caters for the elderly living with dementia. We currently provide care for 40 residents and have a dedicated, caring team of nurses and care staff, whose first priority is the wellbeing and quality of life for your loved one.

At Westacre, we believe that provision of high quality care for vulnerable people should be a fundamental expectation.

Our main Aims and Objectives To provide an environment that feels as near as possible to being at home, surrounded by familiar objects, where the resident feels secure, content and cared for.

• To have the best interests of residents at the forefront of our care provision.

• To expect a high quality of work and level of professional conduct from members of staff at all times.

• To meet our residents expectations in every way.

• To foster an atmosphere of openness and respect between residents, staff, family and friends.

We have 3 new refurbished suites, including one bedroom with a small ‘kitchenette’ to promote more independent living. Our top floor is currently undergoing extensive refurbishment, to include floor to ceiling windows overlooking stunning views of St Catherine’s Hill, available within the next 2 months. These too will promote more independent living.

COMMU N IT Y WELLBEIN G

Clubs & Societies 65+

ISSU E 1 34 | D E CE MBER

SENIOR CITIZENS

Discover for yourself why you should make Fresh Air Fridays part ofwhy your life….

Discover forfor yourself you should make Discover yourself why you should make Fresh AirAirFridays your life...

Fresh Fridays part part ofofyour life….

Fresh Air Fridays gives you time to:

Fresh AirFridays Fridays gives you Fresh Air you time to: time to: Relax Stillgives your mind Learn Relax mind Learn Relax Still Stillyour your mind Learn Move your body Connect with nature Make friends

Move your your body Connect with Make friends Move body Connect withnature nature Make friends In and aroundIn beautiful Alresford, SO24 In and and around Alresford, SO24 SO24 aroundbeautiful beautiful Alresford, th Friday of every month 4th Friday of every 4month 4th Friday of each month 9.30 am – 12.30 pm 9.30 am – 12.30 pm 9.30am - 12.30pm

Jeanette Pratt, Fresh Air Fridays Facilitator Jeanette Pratt, Fresh Air Fridays Facilitator www.alresfordrotary.co.uk or Further details at: www.freshairfridays.co.uk/Jeanette-pratt/ Jeanette Pratt contact secretary Jon Pittam on: Email me on: jpratt62@gmail.com or Further details at: www.freshairfridays.co.uk/Jeanette-pratt/ Fresh Air Further details at:Call www.freshairfridays.co.uk/Jeanette-pratt/ memeon: 119960 for more Email on07709 jpratt62@gmail.com or information and to 01962 733903 Fridays Facilitator

book your on ainformation session and to book your free first session Call me on 07709119960 for more Email me on jpratt62@gmail.com orplace

O New Alresford W.I. Call me on 07709119960 for more information and to book your free first session For more information contact Kate at kitcat1108@aol.com or 01962 733785

O The Royal British Legion For more information contact: www.britishlegion.org.uk/ branches/eastleigh

O The Alresford Society For more information contact Sue Alexander on: 01962 732043 suealex13@gmail.com

O Alresford Day Care Centre For more information contact: Tel: 01962 735612

O The Giles Group For more information call 01962 732978 bob_fowler@ tiscali.co.uk

O Senior Citizens Hour For more information contact: Mrs Jill Hardiman, 6 Mallard Close, Alresford.Tel: 01962 733765

O Dog Training Classes For more information contact: Janet Gray: 01420 562869 www.janetgraydogtraining.co.uk

O Alresford Senior Citizens Lunch Club For more information contact: Liz Garton: 01962 733125 or Elaine Secluna: 01962 733192

O Learn To Play Bridge Contact: Margaret Blewett on 01962 734797 or email: bridgewisembl@gmail.com

O Royal Air Forces Association O Saturday Evening Bridge For more information contact: For more information contact 65+Derek Sweetenham (Chairman) 01962 733559, or Brian Gabriel Margot Power, 01962 734167 or (Secretary) 01962 734482 Ron Turner 01420 543187 O Alresford Royal Naval Association For more information contact: Secretary - Lesley Jones: 01962 736573 family@jonesberry.net

HORTICULTURE O Alresford & District Horticultural Society For more information contact: Clare Read on: 01962 735172 O Ropley Horticultural Society . For more more information contact Jill on 01962 772425 or Ropley.hort.soc@btinternet.com.

O Alresford Flower Club For more information contact Pearl Court: 01962 734441

OTHER CLUBS AND SOCIETIES O Alresford Rotary Club For more information visit

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AESTHETIC STUDIO Sally Curson: 07887 878567 ALRESFORD |

LONDON

Try our NEW: MesoLift treatments The products contain the latest generation of Growth Factors and Biomimetic Peptides, which work exclusively with high frequency devices to deliver these clinically graded products deep into the dermal tissue with highly effective results.

NO NEEDLE alternative to botox and fillers.

O Alresford Twinning Association For more information contact: Jean on 01962 733131 jahalresford-twinning@ yahoo.co.uk

Contact us for more information: 07887 878567

O Itchen Reading Group For more information contact: Jill Clayton: 01962 735482

ADVERTISE WITH US!

O Alresford Historical and Literary Society Contact: Glenn Gilbertson Tel: 01962 732726. glenngilbertson@btinternet.com or Bob Fowler Tel: 01962 734125 O The Alresford Ladies Group For more information contact Pearl Page: 01962 734665

www.sallycurson.co.uk

and reach up to 18,750 readers in Alresford & The Itchen Valley Eighth page placements: £51 Quarter page placements: £88 Half page placements: £166 Discounts are available on 3, 6 and 12 month bookings. For more information email: stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

• Free consultation • Pay for 8 treatments and receive the 9th free • Pay for a course of 8 cosmetic acupuncture treatments to receive 10% discount

ALRESFORD

Jikiden Reiki, Holistic Massage and Bodywork Therapies, Hair Analysis Testing 07780 953 143 www.greenwood-therapies.com carol@greenwood-therapies.com

See website for further details

ISSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Traditional Chinese Medicine· Cosmetic Acupuncture Alresford· Southampton

WELLBEIN G

Greenwood Therapies

stockists of:

Your Local Chiropody Clinic is at: Alresford Pharmacy

26 The Dean Alresford Hampshire S024 9AZ Tel: 01962 738683 www.studio49alresford.com

Alresford Sugaring

1 East Street Alresford Hants SO24 9EE

Tel: 01189 67 58 53 www.mystreetfeet.com

The natural, gentle alternative to waxing Suitable for all areas of the face and body Private treatment room For more details please contact Sadie Mackrell:

Tel: 01962 738727 Mob: 07738 908258 smackrell1@yahoo.com

27

The Robinour smallest bird of ‘pray’?

BY CLAIRE THURLOW

FEATURE ISSUE 134 | DECEMBER

Y

ou might expect to hear sublime singing in a cathedral, but last Christmas I was surprised to hear the melodious notes of a robin in Winchester Cathedral. At first, I thought it was my imagination, but then I saw the little bird perched on the magnificent carved choir screen.

It paused, head cocked, watching me with curiosity. I hoped it would sing for me again, but it flew away, before landing nonchalantly on the back of a chair. It behaved as if it owned the place. I was later told that the robin (and its mate) had taken up residence in these ancient lodgings and were being fed by the priests.

Meanwhile in Liverpool last year, a robin settled in the giant Christmas tree as workmen hauled it into the Cathedral.

Apparently, the bird chirped along with a few services, much to the delight of the congregation, but had departed by New Year.

Should we be surprised that robins seem to enjoy the company of humans? We might suppose that in miserable weather they are simply seeking shelter, although a cold and draughty cathedral hardly offers a cosy berth.

And that wouldn’t explain the robin which greeted me in a hot and humid glasshouse at Kew Gardens this summer.

It sat on a low wall beside a palm tree, coolly watching the sweltering tourists.The robin’s jaunty appearance is so bound up with our notions of Christmas, that it seemed particularly out of place in such a tropical environment.

There seem to be lots of robins around this winter.Whenever I work in the garden, it’s not long before I hear that familiar ‘tic tic’ from a low branch or fencepost. If the ground is too hard for worms and insects, the robin tuts impatiently until I have filled the bird feeder, barely waiting for me to step away before sweeping in for a snack. Preferring to take food from

28

the ground, it will also dip onto the path, flicking its wings and tail before making off with any seeds which have spilled.

The robin’s boldness has led to many reports of these cheeky birds accepting food from an outstretched hand, and anyone digging a flower bed can expect to have a robin tailing them for upturned worms.

Of course, unless a robin has particularly distinctive markings, it’s impossible to tell one from another. During the winter, some of the British birds may have flown to warmer climes, and robins from the colder reaches of Scandinavia and Eastern Europe may temporarily take their place. Although a little less feisty than during the breeding season, the robin is still highly territorial, and its beautiful, liquid song warns potential interlopers to keep out. Along with the nightingale, the robin will also sing after sunset, given the artificial light of a street lamp (or Christmas lights, perhaps).

Every year, the shops are full of Christmas cards which feature the nation’s ‘favourite’ bird (as declared in a UK poll in 2015).This might be because the robin’s scarlet plumage on its chest and face give it an appealing appearance, and it stands out rather well against a background of a traditional (if unrealistic), snow-decked Christmas landscape. Or is it because the Victorians, who popularised the sending of festive greetings cards, nicknamed postmen ‘robin redbreast’ because they wore red jackets? There are also legendary Christian connotations. Did this plucky little bird get its red breast from a drop of Christ’s blood at the crucifixion, or was it burned while fanning the flames to keep baby Jesus warm?

One thing is for sure, this colourful little bird is a firm favourite in town and country alike. If you want to help the RSPB monitor these, and other garden birds, you can sign up to participate in the Big Garden Birdwatch in January 2018. Registration opens on 13 December 2107 with more details at www.rspb.org.uk.

MOTOR IN G I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Repairs Servicing M.O.T

WILCAN MOTOR COMPANY LTD

Servicing, MOT, Tyres & Bodywork Repairs

FREE Local collection and courtesy cars (T&C's apply) Free Safety Checks

Please ring our friendly team on: 01962 736186 andy.wilcan@live.co.uk www.wilcan.co.uk THE LONG BARN, WINCHESTER ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9EZ

No r t h Mo to r Company Holden Farm, Cheriton, Alresford, Hants, SO24 ONX

Independent Garage and MOT Testing Centre Established in1999 - All makes of car serviced and repaired - Saab approved repairer and Subaru specialist Free collection, delivery and courtesy car (when available) Competitively priced tyres - Batteries - Vehicle Diagnostics - Exhausts

Telephone Gary or Andy on 01962 771331 or 771881 www.northmotor.co.uk info@northmotor.co.uk

New Farm Motor Services Ltd New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QE

01962 732338 L.P.G.A approved autogas conversions www.autogas.com

Allows your petrol engine vehicle to run on Autogas, a fuel costing approximately 76p per ltr, with the environmental benefits of a 20% reduction in carbon dioxide production and 2000 times fewer particulates produced from the exhaust fumes when compared with a diesel. Widely available across the country and locally in Winnall, Winchester and West Meon Hut service station.

The government has committed to this fuel difference for the future.

M.O.T Testing Centre • FREE COLLECTION • COURTESY CARS

Class 7 Vans from 3,000 - 3,500kg Class 4 Cars and Vans up to 3,000kg All makes of cars and vans serviced and repaired All makes of truck and horsebox up to 7500kg maintained and prepared for ministry plating tests

CERTIFICATED ENGINEERS • RECOVERY AVAILABLE •

29

COMMU N IT Y

Community

MOTOR IN G ISSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MBER

VILLAGE AGENT - HITTING THE COLD SPOTS

D

enise and Fiona are the local Age Concern Hampshire ‘Village Agent’ volunteers for Alresford. Their role is to help older people in their local community to find information and services such as: •

•

•

Getting out and about: finding transport for shopping, organised trips, medical appointments and local activities Around the Home: finding reputable trades people to help in the house and garden Money Matters: your entitlement to claim benefits grants and loans

They can also help with keeping warm this winter with the aid of Hampshire County Council’s, ‘Hitting the Cold Spots’ Campaign

CHARITY CHRISTMAS CARDS MORE THAN 50 CHARITIES!

On Sale At THE CHARITY CHRISTMAS CARD SHOP Tourist Information Centre WINCHESTER GUILDHALL 26th OCTOBER – 16th DECEMBER 2017 MONDAY – SATURDAY 10am-4.30pm All Proceeds to Charity

AVAILABLE FOR:

PRESTIGE CARS OF ALRESFORD TEL: 01962 865602 MOBILE: 07752 570787

PRIVATE HIRE AIRPORT TRANSFERS OTHER JOURNEYS

OR VISIT WWW.PRESTIGECARSALRESFORD.CO.UK

How can we help?

• Visits from Advisors offering advice and practical support • Support with emergency heating measures (electric oiled filled radiators) if you are without heating • Help to access funding where available for boiler repairs and replacements • Help to access funding for first time central heating • Access to small grant support to help cope with winter emergencies

Other services • •

•

Practical support and advice with debt, money and benefits Free home safe and well visits, which can include a carbon monoxide detector, smoke detector and a fire safety plan Assistance to switch your energy provider or fuel tariff to help save money on your fuel bills

Contact us today

PROFESSIONAL VALETING GET THAT NEW CAR FEELING BY BOOKING A FULL VALET

OPENING TIMES

Mon - Fri: 7.30am - 5.00pm

• Call the Hampshire information line where our friendly team of advisors will be available to offer information and advice

APPOINTMENTS CAN BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE

Tel: 0800 804 8601 Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 5.00pm Email: staywarm@environmentcentre.com Web: www.hants.gov.uk/cold-spots

All weather facility, dry and warm waiting area

Please call Denise or Fiona on 07969 376023 if you’d like any more information on the ‘Hitting the Cold Spots’ campaign, or if they are unavailable call Age Concern Hampshire on 0800 328 7154 or email villageagent@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

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ID VALETING BESPOKE SERVICE ALRESFORD

ID VALETING, UNIT 4, SHELF HOUSE INDUSTRIAL NEW FARM ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9QE TEL: 07967 730584 idt45@btinternet.com

MOT TEST CENTRE

Carefully Selected Cars Approved by trading standards

'WE DON'T BUY ANY OLD CAR' BUT, WE BUY VERY GOOD CARS OF ANY AGE, FOR CASH! SO IF YOU HAVE ONE TO SELL, OR WOULD LIKE SOME FREE ADVICE PLEASE GIVE ROSS A CALL. AND, WE DON'T CHARGE A FEE! The following cars have been carefully selected because of their low mileage, excellent condition and service history.

2015

2015

2014

2013

2014 2014

2014 2012

2010

2012

(64) Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Hybrid 4X4 Estate, 1 owner, zero road tax, 8,500 miles £17995 (15) Honda Jazz 1.4 ES Automatic, 1 owner, 1,300 miles £10995 (64) Seat Leon 1.2 SE Estate Technology pack, £20 road tax - 16,000 miles £10795 (63) BMW 116 D SE 2.0 5 door 24,000 miles £20 tax

£9995 (64) Ford Focus C Max 1.6 Estate 18,000 miles £9695 (14) Skoda Roomster SE 1.2 1 Owner, 14,000 miles

£7995 (64) Fiat Punto 1.4 GBT 1 owner, 11,500 miles £6995 (62) Kia Picanto 2, 1.25 Automatic 5 dr, 18,000 miles

£6495 (10) Citroen C3 VTR+ 1.4 HDi .2 owners, 52,000 miles £3995 (62) Peugeot 107 Active, 5 dr. 2 owners, 14,000 miles

£4495

CLASSIC CARS 1967 Morris Minor Traveller , excellent condition,

rose taupe

1974 MGB GT, Fantastic condition and history,

matching numbers, only 50,000 miles

• • • • •

Welding specialists Tyres for cars and motorcycles 4 wheel laser alignment LPG for sale for cars Recovery services

• Free collection • Diagnostic testing (including Landrover) • Courtesy cars • Certificated engineers

MOT TEST CENTRE FOR: Cars, motorcycles and vans up to 3,000kg.

All makes serviced and repaired.

Class 4 MOT's

Class 1 & 2 Motorcycles

MOT's WHILE YOU WAIT

MOTOR IN G F OOD & DR IN K ISSU E 1 34 | D E CE MBER

Andrews Autosource

ALRESFORD MOTOR SERVICES LTD

UNIT 5, SHELF HOUSE, NEW FARM ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9QE

Tel: 01962 733888 e:mike1ams1@aol.com

HILTONBURY JERSEYS EST 1947

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL OF US AT HILTONBURY!

FRESH RAW JERSEY

MILK & CREAM for sale at:

UPLANDS FARM, SOLD £11995

VIEW OUR CURRENT STOCK AT www.andrews-autosource.co.uk/vehicle-stock

PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL CARS HAVE SERVICE HISTORY TAYLORS GARAGE, HIGH STREET, DROXFORD, SO32 3QL

TEL: 01489 878 879 EVENING TEL: 01962 732995

Winchester Street, Botley, SO30 2AA and at

WINCHESTER & ROMSEY FARMERS MARKET

Pasteurised Milk Coming Soon We are happy to supply tea shops, coffee shops, & local farm shops

Support your Local Dairy Farm Follow Hiltonbury Jerseys on Facebook

Contact Oliver or Julie on: 07977 933470 hiltonbury_jerseys@btinternet.com www.hiltonburyjerseys.co.uk

31

FEATURE ISSUE 1 34 | DECEM BER

Jane's Kitchen A

TURKEY ROYALE

t this time of year we are bombarded with ideas, recipes and instructions on how to prepare and serve the festive bird.

Here is a recipe for ‘left overs’. It can be served over rice or as a savoury bake with a cheese crumble (see October Forum) or as a pie filling.

• fresh parsley if available or a teaspoon of dried tyme • salt and pepper Melt the butter in a medium saucepan and gently fry the onion until transparent then add the pepper and mushrooms, cook for a further few minutes until softened.

Ingredients • 50g butter • 1 small onion peeled and chopped • 1 red pepper cored, de seeded and chopped • 225g button mushrooms left whole or sliced as you like • 30g cornflour • 300ml creamy milk • 300g turkey or chicken stock • 500g cooked turkey diced or shredded.

• 2 tablespoons of dry sherry

32

Sprinkle over the cornflour and cook for 1 minute stirring constantly. Add the milk and stock and stir bringing to the boil, cook for 5 minutes. Add the turkey, sherry and herbs. Season well and serve as above.

From Jane’s Kitchen. An eclectic collection of seasonal recipes. Available from Leckford Farm Shop, Leckford and Chilbolton Village Stores Price £6.99

OFF at 2

for £22

£14.99 ea

OFF at £23.39

ea.

for £60

PORT

OFF at 2

£17.99 ea.

“Utterly gorgeous silky smooth Estate Port”

Passagem LBV 2012

Now 25%

£39.99 ea.

“Sublime Grand Cru Champagne at £30?

Happy Christmas!”

Pierre Boever Grand Cru

Now 10%

£25.99 ea.

“Superb value and quality in one, the ideal glass of Champagne”

Jacques Bardelot Brut

CHAMPAGNE

INTRODUCTORY PRICE

“Glorious red berry fruits, a gentle fizz and wonderful mouth filling flavour”

Pauletts Sparkling Shiraz

£16.99 ea.

“We adore this top end Cava, it has more age and finesse than some brand name Champagnes”

M.Marcal Cava Extramarium

Now 15%

£12.99 ea.

“Our love affair with Prosecco continues, and you can see why in this perfectly created subtle fizz”

Prosecco Porta Nova

FIZZ ea.

for £16

for £20

£16.99 ea. “pure black fruits, beguiling texture and intensity”

Ruminat Primitivo

Civitas Pecorino £16.99 ea. “perfumed super fresh tropical fruits”

Organic—Biodynamic—Vegan

STUNNING PURE WINES

£14.99 ea.

“An old school classic in name but this continues to put a smile on your face, a great wine”

Chateau Paraza Minervois

£19.99 ea.

“A deep brooding power of oak, rich bramble fruits and spice, all wrapped in a beautiful bottle”

Azabache Garnacha Rioja

OFF at 2

OUR FAVOURITES

Now 23%

£12.99 ea.

“Sancerre style Sauvignon Blanc showing a beautiful finesse and balance”

OFF at 2

Les Parcelles Sauvignon

Now 20%

“beautiful clean freshness without any oak influence, Chablis in style”

OFF at £6.79

Vanel Chardonnay £9.99 ea.

Now 20%

£8.49 ea.

“Delicious fresh pear and apple fruits, a very popular quaffing white”

WHITE

Pleno Vuira

ea.

ea.

ALRESFORD FOUR MARKS HUNGERFORD

The Naked Grape

OFF at £32

CHRISTMAS AT

Now 20%

SINGLE MALT WHISKY £39.99 ea. “a Malt that retains a gentle character with an undertone of richness”

Glen Keith Distillers Edition

£24.99 ea. “steeped the old fashioned way, and boy is it good!”

Naked Gin Rhubarb

for £20

SPIRITS

Now 23%

OFF at 2

for £16

Vega Douro £12.99 ea.

“We really can’t imagine a better festive red than this stunner from Portugal”

Now 20%

OFF at 2

OFF at £6.79

Puerta Vieja Rioja £9.99 ea.

“Superb value for this versatile big fruit yet easy drinking Rioja”

Now 20%

£8.49 ea.

“Ripe youthful black fruits, soft palate matched well with various dishes”

RED

Tierra Rey Merlot

FO R U M | HEADING



 FEATURE ISSUE 134 | DECEMBER

Christmas in Alresford 

I

t’s no accident that our lovely town looks so warm and Christmassy during the festive season. For many years a largely unseen workforce has erected real Christmas trees on businesses and homes in the centre of town and adorned them with old-style coloured bulbs to give that traditional yuletide glow.

There is nothing more magical than walking or driving through the town on the first night that the Christmas trees are illuminated, making you feel that Christmas has arrived and underlining just what a special community Alresford is.

 34



It’s The Alresford Pigs Association in conjunction with the Alresford Chamber of Commerce that sells and erects the trees, keeping them looking wonderful by regularly changing old bulbs for new throughout December come rain or shine – or snow!

In addition, ‘The Alresford Christmas Tree Fund’ which relies purely on donations and goodwill has successfully provided a landmark Christmas tree in Broad Street and orchestrated the arrival of Father Christmas, assisted each year by The Alresford Pigs who ensure that Santa arrives safely one pre-Christmas evening to deliver presents to local children.This year is no exception so you can look forward to twinkling lights aplenty from the end of November, with Father Christmas arriving in style on Wednesday December 13th.

However, each year it gets harder and harder to maintain this tradition, with rising costs of materials and ever tightened

 

Health and Safety legislation/insurance meaning that the ‘Tree Committee’ have to work to an ever tighter budget.

If you are keen to see the ‘Giant Christmas Tree’ lighting up our town and Santa delivering presents on the evening of December 13th, please text a donation to ACTF17 followed by the amount £ to 70070 and/or you can donate on the night by contributing to our collection buckets and taking part in our terrific Tombola – which has an array of fantastic prizes!

Futhermore, local businesses will be keeping their doors open for late night shopping and refreshments on December 13th with timings as follows: 6.15pm Lead up to the Arrival of Father Christmas with

community carol singing 7pm Father Christmas

will arrive in the town 7.15- 8.30pm Children visit Santa in his grotto where presents

will be handed out 6-9pm Late night shopping Please help us to keep this tradition alive in Alresford.

The Alresford Pigs Association is a registered charity (charity no.

1163001). More information can be found at www.alresfordpigs. org or for an immediate request for support call the Pigs Help line 01962 658961

Wednesday 13 December 2017 Featuring

Magnificat

by John Rutter

Saturday 9th December 2017 7:30pm

Join us for wine, mince pies, 20% off and a special treat for the children!

6 - 8pm Bakehouse Yard, West Street Alresford Tel. 01962 734488 www.ragamuffin-uk.com

ALSO OPEN SUNDAYS IN DECEMBER UNTIL CHRISTMAS

COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R



Alresford Community Choir

St John’s Church New Alresford, SO24 9AG Conductor: Keith Clark

Accompanist: Kate Jones Tickets: £15 (£12 concessions) www.alresfordchoir.com Oakleaf Stationary, Alresford or 07970 854531 www.alresfordchoir.com Registered Charity No. 1148708

ROTARY CLUB OF ALRESFORD

ON YOUR OWN AT CHRISTMAS?

T ime to get your

Christmas Tree

You, a friend or relative are warmly invited to a traditional Christmas Day lunch on Monday 25th December

ON SALE – TOP OF BROAD STREET

Saturday 9th December

from 8am to 2pm* Great quality & home grown

At Makins Court in New Alresford

Nordmann Premium 3 sizes

Transport (including wheelchairs) available

From 4’ to 7’ £25 to £45

Nordmann Quality Popular 3 sizes

Arrive from 12.00 noon for lunch at 12.30pm

From 4’ to 8’ £20 to £50

Norway Spruce 1 size 5’ - 6’ £25 (limited supply this year)

You contribute just £5 a head

*Do come along and enjoy the festive fun of choosing your tree before they all go

To book (ASAP & by 18th December latest), please: • Drop in to St John’s parish office, open Monday to Friday, 10.00am until noon • Phone 01962 733545, leaving your name & phone number if the answer phone is on

On behalf of Churches Together in Alresford www.alresfordrotary.co.uk

Supporting local and Rotary charities – charity no 1014447

Designed by ThomasMillerltd.com

35

R ETA IL I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Market Square UNIQUE - BESPOKE - ECLECTIC - LOCAL

36

Delilah Boutique

Alresford Gift Shop

Interior Style

Dexter Dress by In Wear - £124.95 34 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 738470 | Delilah Boutique

Marcasite Elephant -£56.75. Solid Silver jewellery arriving daily including Marcasite and Opalite pieces Tel: 01962 732192 | 10 West Street, Alresford

Don't miss our wide range of decorations for the festive season 29 West Street, New Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 736311 | www.interiorstyle.biz

Ragamuffin

Andrew Smith & Son - Auctioneers

Soles Butchers

Pettiskirt by Candy Bows - super soft tulle layers in lots of colours! From - £23. Available from 0-12y.

Tel: 01962 734488 | www.ragamuffin-uk.com

Fine Art, Antiques, Interiors & Collectables - Tues 12 Dec and Wed 13 Dec. Viewing 7th, 8th, 9th and 11th Dec Tel: 01962 735988 | www.andrewsmithandson.com

Don't forget to order your Christmas Meat and Game.

We are taking orders NOW! Tel: 01962 735221 | 5 Broad Street, SO24 9AR

More by Design

D.Barker & Son

The Courtyard Tearoom

Wonderful selection of unique rugs, just like this old handmade Persian Gebbeh Tel: 01962 734504 | www.handmaderugs.co.uk

Coeur de Lion necklace - £119 40A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 732200 | www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

Whilst Christmas shopping, why not pop in for warming pot of tea or cup of coffee and a delicious slice of cake

Down the passage - 19 Broad Street, Alresford

R ETA IL I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

A place for local retailers to display their wares and provide readers with seasonally evocative, inspirational gift and style ideas.

Design Realities

Lavenders

Moda Rosa

Vintage inspired Christmas decorations from - £12 Snowflake £25 | 36 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 732507 | www.design-realities.co.uk

Fox tealight - £22.50 19 Broad Street, Alresford, SO24 9AR Tel: 01962 733894 | www.lavenders-alresford.com

Dom Goor Sheepskin 35 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 733277 | www.modarosa.co.uk

Alresford Gift Shop

Delilah Boutique

Lavenders

Stunning tree decorations available; Ballerinas from - £7.95 10 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT

Tel: 01962 732192

Mohair scarves by Foxfield - £30 34 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 738470 | Delilah Boutique

Unicorn Mug and Stirrer - £15.99 19 Broad Street, Alresford, SO24 9AR Tel: 01962 733894 | www.lavenders-alresford.com

D.Barker & Son

Alresford Gift Shop

House of Gallet

Jars of Marmite with silver lids - various sizes from - £29 40A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 732200 | www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

Alresford Jigsaws available in December priced at £16.95 10 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT

We stock a collection of designer wear (new & pre-loved) Broad Street Arcade, 19 Broad street, Alresford, SO24 9AR Tel: 07810 753226 | www.houseofgallet.co.uk

Tel: 01962 732192

37

R ETA IL I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Market Square UNIQUE - BESPOKE - ECLECTIC - LOCAL

TempleFlora

Delilah Boutique

No.42

Beautiful Christmas Wreaths from - £45. Available to order from Alresford Linen Co.

Tel: 07510 247243

Men’s bamboo socks - £8 34 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 738470 | Delilah Boutique

Plenty of velvet and touches of sparkle - we have Christmas party outfits sorted Tel: 01962 733242 | www.42weststreet.co.uk

JoJo Inspired

D.Barker & Son

Alresford Linen Co.

Our amazing collection of fur jackets and more are ready.

JoJo Inspired - The Affordable Brand Tel: 07973 688251 | jojoinspired.com

Diamond stud earrings - various sizes from - £795 40A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 732200 | www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

Decorations aplenty and gift ideas galore. Plus, free giftwrapping so that’s one thing you can tick off your to-do list!

Tel: 01962 734221 | www.alresfordlinen.co.uk

Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

Lavenders

Billy Goat

Double dustbin store - £165 + VAT High Ridge Farm, Hospital Road, Shirrell Heath

Handmade Fairtrade paper from Nepal, using the skin of the Lokta plant - £3.60each 19 Broad Street, Alresford, SO24 9AR Tel: 01962 733894 | www.lavenders-alresford.com

Aloka LED rainbow nightlights with remote control - perfect for little ones who want the light left on! £30 Tel: 01962 733926 | www.billygoatshoes.co.uk

Tel: 01329 835100 | www.equestrianfencing.com

38

MARKET SQUARE

Magnetic Note Pads

Brooches

Naturally European Ltd

Magnetic list note pads - 8 different design available - £4.00 Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk

Beautiful brooches in a range of designs - Starting at £5.95 Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk

Room diffusers and candles (Cranberry and Orange) - £11.95 Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk

R ETA IL I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Alresford Beauty

Alresford Beauty Not simply a beauty salon - oh no - it's also a veritable gift emporium, especially at Christmas!

Come on in and discover a wonderful eclectic array of stocking filler gifts Ladies & Mens Socks Crew Socks - In a range of classic and seasonal designs - £5.95 Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk

ALRESFORD BEAUTY 24A WEST ST, ALRESFORD, SO24 9AT

Hand Sanitisers Moisturising Santa and Friends Hand Sanitisers - £2.99 Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk

LipBalms

Somerset Tioletries

Somerset Toiletries

A range of Christmas themed lipbalms - £3.50 Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk

Seasonal Novelty Hand Washes - £5.95 Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk

Drunken Carols Soaps - £4.95 Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk

39

R ETA IL I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Retail

BEAUTIFUL BRIDAL WEAR COMES TO STOCKBRIDGE

Carina Rose Bridal was borne out of that wonderful experience, my daughter’s special day. I wanted the excitement to continue by helping other brides choose the dress of their dreams for their special day. So, I set about searching for the right location and then the premises to put down my roots and begin to realise my dream. It has been 2 years in the making, resulting in finding my pretty shop which is part of a Grade 2 listed converted pub in Stockbridge, a beautiful market town.

Carina Rose Bridal will be opening on Friday 1st December Please contact Carina on 01264 810011 www.carinarosebridal.co.uk 2 The Vine, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HF

W

elcome to Carina Rose Bridal, a beautiful and relaxing place to browse for your special gown at your leisure. Situated in rural Stockbridge, you will feel time slowing down as you slip into the pace of the Hampshire countryside.

Understanding that wedding dress shopping can sometimes be an intimidating experience, we will ensure your visit to us is relaxed and enjoyable as you browse through our selection of carefully chosen bridal wear with total exclusivity of our pretty boutique.

We offer a selection of sophisticated, elegant full length bridal gowns with flowing trains, tea length dresses and pretty quirky knee length dresses, designer shoes and accessories.We want you to feel looked after from the moment you contact us until your dress is handed to you, ensuring you feel and look stunning on your special day.

About Carina

After my daughter's engagement in 2015 the very next exciting thought was "Her Wedding Dress". I couldn't wait for her to start looking. What a pleasure it was to go into the "world of weddings" with her. I loved the excitement of visiting different bridal shops. When she put on the dress we both just knew, it was the one. We had so much fun and laughs along the way that a seed was sown.

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Oakleaf Stationery Ltd OFFICE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES

OPENING TIMES Mon to Fri - 9am - 5pm Sat - 9.30am - 1pm

Why travel all the way to Winchester for office supplies when we have a comprehensive range available on your doorstep A wide range of print cartridges in stock Services available: Photocopying, Laminating, Document Binding, Faxing, Scan to Email, Professional Personalised Printing Agent

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R ETA IL I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

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COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

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Alresford Town Council Reports

ew Alresford Town Council would like to start this last report of the year, by wishing all the residents of New Alresford a very merry Christmas and a

happy, healthy 2018. We would also like to thank the officers and staff of the council for all their hard work during this year. The first item in our report is not intended to cause alarm, but to ensure that Alresford residents are made aware of this particular danger.

Be aware of fraud in Alresford Members of the public are being urged to warn elderly relatives and friends about telephone calls from fake police officers. In the last week we have had reports that three people in their 80s - from Itchen Abbas, Waltham Chase and Colden Common - have given a total of £25,000 to fraudsters.

With over £40,000 being given, by unsuspecting members of the community, to the offenders over the past month. The victims all received a telephone call from someone pretending to be from the police. The fake officer said that they were investigating fraudulent transactions in the victim’s bank account. The victims were asked to withdraw cash from their bank and check the serial numbers. They were then advised that some of the money was counterfeit and a courier was sent to collect it. The police would never request anyone to withdraw or hand over money.

If someone comes to your door claiming to be a police

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officer, always ask to see their identification and make a note of their ID number; usually on their shoulder. Close the door and call 101 to check they are genuine, a real police officer will not mind waiting whilst you check.

Comments Last Call for Comments on Consultation – Deadline 8th December 2017 The City of Winchester Movement Strategy is a joint initiative from Hampshire County Council and Winchester City Council. The aim is to understand how to address travel and transport issues, and to allow the city to become a healthier and more accessible place. This public consultation was launched on 30 October and will run until 8th December 2017.

The questionnaire is available on www.hants.gov.uk/ winchestermovementstrategy.

Alresford Rivers Secure Important Grant The Heritage Lottery Fund’s (HLF) Landscape Partnership programme has awarded £2.2m to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight

Wildlife Trust (HIWWT).

The grant will fund work on conserving the distinctive chalk stream habitats of rivers that arise from the chalk of the Hampshire Downs.

Project partners will work with seven communities on headwater streams including the River Arle and Cheriton Stream - to develop and put in place plans to protect the rivers in the area. The project recognises that the headwaters support a range of heritage industries, villages and their communities. The project, made possible through HLF’s Landscape Partnership (LP) programme, will look to restore wildlife habitats and historic structures along the river, improving access and raising water quality.

Use it or lose it If you have travelled through mainland Europe this year you may have noticed how many vacant shops there were in the centres of small towns and cities. A casual glance would suggest that this was the result of many businesses moving into commercial zones around the perimeters. The visual impact on the town centres of this semi-dereliction is serious and the large out-oftown retail units, resembling tin sheds, do little for the landscape. At the moment, Alresford is a happy contrast, with a selection of useful shops with a wide range of goods. The threat for Alresford traders is obviously the internet; so before you order on-line, please remember that if we don’t support our local retailers, we may end up by losing them.

Stratton Bates Play Area The newly formed Recreation & Environment Committee of the Town Council, chaired by Steve Deeming, had its first meeting at the end of October. One of the most urgent things for them to address was the state of the fort at the Stratton Bates play area. We are sorry that it has got to the condition it has. As you might imagine, this sort of equipment costs significant sums and we do not have sufficient reserves to replace it in the short term. However, we found a contractor to make both the urgent repairs needed and to hopefully give the fort a few more years of life by replacing timber that is starting to decay.

This work did mean that the play equipment was out of action for a short while last month, but is available for the Christmas holidays.

Alresford Recreation/Council Offices We are pleased to confirm that the Alresford Recreation and Council Office building has been repainted. The defibrillator has been moved from the left hand side of the building, to the front wall to aid swift access. The Council office will be closed from 1pm on the 22nd December until the 2nd January 2018.

The car park will be closed on Christmas and Boxing Day. Contact us New Alresford Town Council Arlebury Park, The Avenue, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9EP Open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 11am to 1pm 01962 732079 www.newalresfordtc.org.uk

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COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Community JACKIE’S COUNTY CORNER FOR

DECEMBER - MERRY CHRISTMAS!

D

espite the approach of Christmas, this month I have concentrated on transport issues as so many changes are ‘in train’ (pun intended!). Many of us commute regularly or use the trains occasionally. South Western Railway is consulting on proposals to change the train services from 2019, with a deadline of 22nd December 2017.

It seems as if there will be an increased number of trains from Winchester, but an unacceptable reduction in the frequency of trains from rural stations, including Micheldever.You can go online to https://www.southwesternrailway.com/contact-andhelp/timetable-consultation to respond.

There’s a new website to help those of you who travel around on wheels, either through disability or pushed by your Mum or Dad in a buggy. Entitled ‘A better world for wheels’, it enables users to upload information to help others. Launched in September, Google says: ‘We’re calling on Local Guides, a community of people who contribute their expertise about places on Google Maps, to add more wheelchair accessibility’. Search online for ‘A better world for wheels’ or go to https://www.blog.google/products/maps/better-world-wheels-googlemaps/ The main topic at HCC at present is Tt2019, which is the headline for the Budget reductions at HCC. This is a result of the Government’s squeeze on our local services, which was supported by MPs.You will be kept abreast of cuts to services that will affect the public as each item goes to ‘consultation’, but it all sounds dire. One of the victims is subsidised public bus transport, and there are cuts proposed in the school bus offer too.

Dial a Ride and other subsidised bus services The proposal is for no bus service to be subsidised by HCC. This will impact on Dial a Ride, Community Bus support, smaller services (e.g.

Mervyn) and weekend/evening semi commercial services. Parishes may well be asked to support services through CIL or precept. Another alternative is to charge 50p per trip, and/or pay for an annual pass, though this isn’t currently lawful. The effect on several other services (e.g., library, recycling centres) is serious too; we are told there will be consultation on each service which directly affects the public.

Campaign caps on for 2018!

Changes at the Cart and Horses, the crossings at Sutton Scotney and Alresford, closure of Andover Road: many schemes are rolling along, but more slowly as funding is cut. Highways England has announced that the M3 Junction 9 improvements heralded in 2015 will be delayed for several years. I have asked for Walk and Cycle routes through, to and from Kings Barton to be on the Barton Farm Forum agenda in the New Year. Please contact me if you are interested in this topic.…and let me know which council service you value the most!

Councillor Jackie Porter Tel: 01962 791054, email Jackie@jackieporter.co.uk, text 07973 696 085, Twitter: @JackieLibDem

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OUR NEW FREE ITCHEN VALLEY

T

CALENDAR 2018 IS AVAILABLE

he useful and long awaited 2018 Itchen Valley Calendar is now available. This year we are trying to reach as many homes as possible door to door. If you have not had a calendar delivered to your home then copies are freely available from Hellards Estate Agents, Broad Street, Alresford or the Hampshire County Library also in Broad Street, Alresford.

The calendar is a FREE publication created with the kind support of local businesses in the Itchen Valley. We have tried to include as many local events as possible for each month, also the calendar contains useful contact number for the community.

We would also like to thank Stephen Morley for some of the beautiful local photographs. If you have any suggestions for next years calendar then please let us know.

The Editor Forum Publications Ltd 11 Broad Street, Alresford, SO249AR Tel: 01962 735137

ALRESFORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DECEMBER 2017

Alresford Chamber Project – Lighting up Alresford

Thank you to Chamber members and The Alresford Pigs. The 2017 project to ensure that Alresford is lit with 180 Christmas trees has been successful. Boosting the festive atmosphere for both residents and visitors. The value of an independent shopping and dining destination cannot be underestimated and needs to be nurtured for us all.

Late night Christmas Shopping Wednesday 13th December

Business Rates

The Chamber has made good progress to a positive outcome

Parking

The Chamber is aware of the current discussions over parking in the town and strives to develop and good solution. Whilst keeping an eye on building developments ensuring that precious parking bays are not obstructed unnecessarily

Up and coming events

The Chamber Christmas Event Looking forward to Christmas dinner, a great opportunity for members to chat over the business highs and lows info@alresfordchamber.co.uk www.alresfordchamber.co.uk

Santa Claus is coming to town….

Why don’t you come too?

Drop in for a mince pie and a chat about making your will A Will is one of the most powerful legal documents you will prepare in your lifetime and is the only way to ensure that you avoid a financial nightmare for those you love, after you pass away

The distribution of a loved one’s estate can be complicated, time consuming and emotionally distressing, especially if you die without a will or even worse, your will is unclear or not properly executed.

Book a free initial meeting with us, with no time limitations, to receive support and guidance to ensure that assets are being distributed correctly.

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EDU CAT ION P R OF ESSION A L ISSUE 134 | D E CEMBER

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P R OF ESSION A L ISSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MBE R

Accounts & audit • Business advisory • Tax • Bookkeeping • IT & online accounting • VAT • Buying or selling a business Payroll Accounts & audit • Business advisory • •Tax • Bookkeeping

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COMMU N IT Y ISSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Christmas Events DECEMBER 2 DECEMBER Auction at Itchen Abbas Village Hall From 2pm - Viewing from 12.30pm.To include China, Coins, Ephemera, Collectables, Old Toys, Jewellery, small items of Furniture, NOT Household goods, Car Boot Items or modern Electricals. Drop off 9-9.30am. Sellers booking recommended. Please call Claire: 01962 734941 or Bob: 01962 733475 www.auctionsinaday.co.uk

2 DECEMBER Christmas Activity Open Morning Meon Springs Montessori From10.30am – 12.30noon Gingerbread, Face Painting, Christmas Craft, Snow & Glitter, Reindeer Obstacle Course and lots more festive fun. Mulled wine and yummy festive treats too! Kilmeston Village Hall, Kilmeston, SO24 0NW

6 DECEMBER Christmas Concert Itchen Valley Choral Society Do come and join us – we will be singing music of Christmas, Folk and Film. Audience participation adds to our special concerts. At Itchen Abbas Village Hall from 7.45pm.Ticket Price £10.00 to include fine music, good food and drink.Tickets are available on the night.

8 DECEMBER Charity concert by The Winchester Fusion Choir Start your Christmas celebrations with an evening of entertainment. A charity concert

by The Winchester Fusion Choir under the direction of Marie O'Brien will be held at St. Peter's R.C. Church, Jewry Street,Winchester on Friday 8th December at 7.30 pm.

Refreshments available.Tickets, £7.50.

Contact 01962 889461 for further details.The ticket sales will support three local charities.

Sebastian Action Trust, offers respite holidays to sick children. Street Reach, a charity supporting vulnerable young people. St Vincent De Paul Society, supporting young vulnerable families.

by John Rutter. From 7.30pm at St.John's Church, New Alresford. Conductor: Keith Clark.

Accompanist: Kate Jones.Tickets £15 (£12 concessions) www.alresfordchoir.com. Available from Oakleaf Stationery, Alresford or 07970 854351.

9 DECEMBER Family Christmas Concert The award winning New Music Makers choir are excited to invite you to their family christmas concert at Hedge End Village Hall SO30 4AF. Due to popular demand there will again be two concerts 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

We will have special guests to entertain you as well as the choir and plenty of join-in carols for the audience. Santa will be at the matinee so do come along, bring your friends and relatives and get in the mood for Christmas.Tickets: £7.00 and £5.00 Under 5’s Free.Tel: 01489 781836 The Flower Garden, Hedge End www.newmusicmakers.com

13 DECEMBER Father Christmas Arrives in Alresford From 6.00pm Broad Street, carol Singing and the arrival of Father Christmas in Alresford. Join the carol singers awaiting Father Christmas.

How will he arrive this year?

13 DECEMBER Late Night Opening in Alresford Come to the Library - we will be open between 5pm and 8.30pm. There will be fun Christmas activities for the children. Craft stalls and Christmas gifts. As well as books, magazines, dvds and so much more.

13 DECEMBER Victorian Christmas Magic Lantern Show From 7pm at Alresford Community Centre Enjoy an evening of fascinating Fun and exciting show using original Magic Lantern Slides and optical effects. Adults £5, Students and over 10 £3, under 10 Free. All profits to Alresford Save the Children Branch.Tickets from Six West, Alresford or Bob Leggett: 01962 733475

9 DECEMBER Time to get your Christmas Tree!

On sale at the top of Broad Street from Saturday 9th December. From 8am to 2pm. Great quality and home grown. Do come along and enjoy the festive fun for choosing your tree before they go.

9 DECEMBER Alresford Community Choir A Carol for Everyone. Featuring Magnificat 48

14 DECEMBER A Winchester Christmas in aid of the NSPCC Celebrity carol concert and reception hosted

by Dame Esther Rantzen DBE with Alastair Stewart OBE, celebrity readers, Sansara Choir, Andrew Lumsden, organist and BBC Young Chorister of the Year 2015, Agatha Pethers Thursday 14th December 2017 7.30pm In Winchester College Chapel, College Street, Winchester, SO23 9NA.Tickets £30 (Concert) or £55 (Concert and Champagne Reception) Tickets available from: awinchesterchristmas.co.uk

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25 DECEMBER Traditional Makins Court Christmas Day Lunch in Alresford On your own at Christmas? You, a friend or relative are warmly invited to a traditional Christmas Day lunch on Monday 25th December. The lunch will be at Makins Court in New Alresford.Transport (including wheelchairs) available. Arrive from 12noon for lunch at 12.30pm.Your contribute just £5 a head.To book (ASAP & by 18th December) please either drop into St.John's parish office, open Monday to Friday from 10am until noon.

Or phone 01962 733545 leaving your name and phone number, if the answerphone is on. On behalf of Churches Together in Alresford.

20 13 DECEMBER Carol Singing and the arrival of Father Christmas in Alresford Join the carol singers awaiting Father Christmas.

How will he arrive this year?

DECEMBER

New Theatre Royal presents a beautiful adaptation of the world-famous folktale Beauty and the Beast.

Based on Beauty and the Beast’s theatrical and literary history, the story is enriched with local settings and naval life, and with a range of inspiring characters.With surprising twists and wonderful turns, prepare to be swept off your feet in this brand new Christmas family adventure.Tickets range from £19 to £29 with preview show tickets from just £14.50. Visit www.newtheatreroyal.com or contact the box office on: 023 9264 9000 20-24 Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth, PO1 2DD

JANUARY

Kasbah Swing Band - Playing jazz, swing, rock & blues at Bighton Village Hall from 8.00pm Licensed bar - Doors open at 7.30pm Ticket admission: £10 Book on-line at www.bighton.org.uk or call 01962 736556

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A N IMA LS I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Animals

PERILS OF CHRISTMAS

C

hristmas is fast approaching. Whilst it is a time of eating, drinking and being merry for humans, it can be a stressful and perilous time for our pets. They are creatures of habit and the break of routine that the festivities bring can be unsettling. The party season sees more people in their house, which some find an exciting and sociable event, but not all.

There are often fireworks to celebrate Christmas and New Year, which can be a real issue for some animals. There are lots of ways to help with anxiety. Set up a quiet secure area for them to escape to, e.g. a crate, behind the sofa or under the bed. Although it may seem counter-intuitive, it's best not to reassure your pet too much.

It's best to show that you aren't afraid by ignoring the problem.

Close curtains and put a radio on. There are several products such as plug-in diffusers and herbal remedies to alleviate anxiety as well as prescription drugs. Your veterinary team are always happy to advise.

Christmas wouldn't be the same without decorations, from just a string of tinsel to a whole house and garden bedecked in finery.

Decorations are hazardous to inquisitive pets if chewed and swallowed. They should be kept out of reach. Christmas lights are a risk of electrocution if nibbled, a particular problem for house

rabbits. Again, lights should be kept out of reach or protected.

We often give and receive festive plants, many of which are toxic to animals. Poinsettias, ivy, holy, yew etc. are all dangerous if ingested. Cats in particular have a tendency to have a nibble on plants that are on tables and windowsills.

Roast dinner with all the trimmings is a mainstay of Christmas Day. Regardless of the debate as to whether sprouts should be on the naughty or nice list, our pets can't indulge in all the same foods as us. Some foods are extremely toxic to them. Chocolate contains a chemical called Theobromine, similar to caffeine. Animals are not able to metabolise Theobromine in the same way we do and can become very unwell if eaten.

Grapes, raisins and sultanas are highly poisonous even if eaten in small quantities. Cooked bones such as those from the turkey, can shard and lodge in, or damage, the digestive tract. The best advice is too keep all human food away from your pet. If you feel you want them to have a festive treat, stick to a proprietary product designed for them. If at any point you are concerned your furry friend has eaten something they shouldn't, contact your vet immediately.

May you and your pets have a very Merry Christmas from all at Cedar Vets.

Written by Laura Smith RVN & Emily Binfield RVN Cedar Veterinary Group www.cedarvet.com Alton: 01420 82163 Alresford: 01962 732535 Four Marks: 01420 562048

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H OME I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

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F EAT U R E I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

HampshirePeople TALKS WITH LAURA TRANT

L

aura Trant is even more petite and immaculate in real life than she appears on television. We meet at a local farm shop with me fresh from a painting lesson. I apologise for smelling of turps, but no matter, Laura is effortlessly friendly and funny. Born in Dorset she lived on a beef farm for the first two years of her life. It was ”a really wonderful family life with three siblings”. Later she went to Aberystwyth University and did her postgraduate course at Falmouth University.

I wonder how she got into television journalism.

“After those four years I felt I needed some city life. I worked in Southampton at Radio Solent and then took the plunge and went to London. I knew at sixteen that I wanted to be journalist, so it was a question of doing voluntary work, then my degree, then once in London knocking on doors, working on my CV and being persistent. It paid off.

I’ve had some fantastic experience working on the Jeremy Vine and Michael Parkinson radio shows. After two years I got the opportunity to work for BBC South Today and so moved back to Hampshire. I’ve been with South Today for ten years now.”

Laura appears as relaxed in front of the camera as she does in person. Does she get nervous?

“No not really. At the moment I work both in the studio at Southampton and in London reporting live on outside broadcasts. I’m often asked if I can get to a location quickly. I always yes. I love having to think on my feet - it can be very exciting! In the studio it may look effortless, but there is a production team speaking to your ear piece all the time and sometimes the autocue has been known to fail, plus there is a script to adhere too.”

There have been challenging moments for Laura during live broadcasts.

“I remember reporting from the Grenfell Tower when a woman got between me and the camera. I was unsure how she was going to react, because she was understandably very angry and upset, but the camera kept rolling and I just had to keep going. Reporting on baby Charlie Gard was always hard.

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My degree was in International Relations, with my dissertation on HIV and Aids in Africa, which interests me still. I visited Rwanda to report on life post-genocide. The stories I heard there, and the sights I saw seventeen years after the event, will stay with me forever. It was a horrific carnival of killing, the brutality of which you can’t come to terms with.Yet the people there are incredible and keep moving forward.

But of course, there have been some wonderful lighter moments. I drove the 007 Aston Martin DBS previously driven by Daniel Craig, and had the opportunity to cover CarFest and be driven around the track in a bright orange McLaren 650 Sport. I just love speed!”

Is Laura ambitious for promotion?

“Do you know, I really love my life the way it is now. I couldn’t be happier working part of the time in London and the rest of the time in Southampton, it’s a really good balance.”

Who would Laura interview given the chance?

“Oh easy, Dolly Parton! I just adore her! She is the ultimate contradiction - the way she looks contrasted with her values, beliefs and charity work. I would love to interview her. I have all of her records and have seen her in concert three times. She’s had an amazing and hard life but remains so positive. I love the stories she tells in her songs. Her personality and look are so upbeat, she’s just amazing. I sing along to her in the car - I don’t care if the windows are open or not!”

So how does Laura relax?

“I’m a split personality, I think. When I’m in the country I know I have the excitement of the city when I want it, and when in the city I love the idea of escaping to the countryside. I like to walk and cycle and practice my watercolour painting. I’m definitely a country girl at heart. I love Dorset and the New Forest, and I think we’re so lucky to have coast and forest in Hampshire. There’s nothing like being in the fresh air surrounded by natural beauty; I believe it’s really good for your soul to be away from constant communication and just be. I’ve recently taken up fly-fishing which enables me to enjoy the outdoors and completely focus. It’s so relaxing.

While in London I’ve started a six-week wine course with Berry Brothers in St. James’s. It’s fascinating but my friends find it hysterical because I’m such a lightweight. Two glasses and I’m done! But I do have a passion for Sauvignon Blanc and Hampshire Sparkling Wine, which is excellent and the only wine I take to friends.”

Laura combines all of this with her position as Vice President of The Wessex Cancer Trust.

“The Trust makes such a difference to those suffering, caring and living with cancer and to those who have lost loved ones to the disease. The work, research and support The Trust offers is absolutely invaluable. I’m very proud to be involved.”

What will Laura be doing this Christmas?

“I just adore Christmas and buying presents for people! I would happily be Mrs. Christmas in my next life! It will be at my parents’ house here in Hampshire with all the family.

We still open our stockings on Mum and Dad’s bed like we did when were kids! Christmas is all about kids, isn’t it? We don’t have any TV on during Christmas but play lots of games with my nephew and two nieces. It’s all very traditional and we have the most amazing time. One day it will be wonderful to have my own kids, too. I’m really in awe of my sister and Mum for the way they are with their children.”

What would be Laura’s perfect gift?

“Chocolate! I’m well known at work for having chocolate biscuits under my desk and there is a certain shop in Winchester where I buy my peanut butter chocolate. I always get embarrassed when they say, ‘Hello Laura, your usual chocolate?’

Hair straighteners, I couldn’t live without them! My hair can go very curly! And the colour of a clear blue summer skyyou can’t beat it or paint it - such an amazing colour, I just love it.”

FEATURE ISSUE 13 4 | DECEM BER

What’s it like being ‘Laura Trant’?

“I don’t think of myself as famous at all – I’m just me - I don’t mind being recognised as people are always so lovely.”

Here’s wishing Laura the perfect Christmas under a clear blue, frosty sky and a very happy 2018.

GG. www.thewessexcancer.org.uk

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The Black Hat Band ©David McKibbin

FE EATU R E 134 ISSUE 131 | SEPTEMBER LESIU R ISSUE | DECEMBER

Music To Our Ears

W

ALRESFORD MUSIC FESTIVAL SATURDAY 9TH JUNE 2018 - ARLEBURY PARK

e are so lucky to live in a beautiful and vibrant part of the world, and we can be justly proud of our close community and the wonderful variety of amazing things there are to visit, see and take part in at almost any time of the year. The annual Alresford Music Festival (AMF) is just one of those marvels, having grown from modest beginnings in Perins School grounds to an award nominated national music festival – right at the heart of our town. Renowned for the quality and breadth of bands and musicians taking part and for the family friendly atmosphere, AMF has rightly earned an enviable reputation for being the festival to be seen at and to play at every summer.

warm welcome they receive and many are thrilled to be playing on Glastonbury size stages with state-of-the-art sound and lighting, in front of a positive, engaged and appreciative crowd of thousands.

2018 will be the ninth AMF and is run on a not-for-profit basis, organised entirely by local volunteers and money raised is donated to charity.To date over £35,000 has been raised and shared with good causes, community organisations and through its registered charity The AMF Foundation; music based charities... and that is particularly why the festival is so special to our town.

The dedicated Family Arena at the festival provides space and freedom for kids of all ages to roam the site safely.The big screen means that the main stages can be seen from anywhere in the arena and the performances enjoyed whatever festival goers are doing.They may be bungee trampolining or climbing a colossal wall, being decorated with glitter, enjoying the theatre tent or dancing in front of one of the five stages of live entertainment.There is a packed festival village, with a wide choice of tasty local and international food, a fine ale bar, cocktail vans, sparkling wine and cider bars.

Festival goers of all ages come to Alresford from all over the UK not just the local region, and while they are in the town they are encouraged to spend to help increase the value to our businesses and to boost the local economy.With live music available in the pubs and restaurants on Friday evening, and camping on both Friday and Saturday nights, festival goers are free to make the most of the retail and hospitality opportunities that Alresford has to offer.This can only boost the local economy and raise the profile of our wonderful town.

AMF is only possible due to the incredible generosity of local (and not so local) businesses. Because of their support the festival can book high quality bands, provide FREE family activities (within the ticket price) and FREE transport running regularly to and from Winchester and Alton train stations.This makes it safe and easy to enjoy the festival hospitality and helps to extend the visitor footprint beyond the local area.

From the outset Perins School, Alresford Rugby and Football Clubs were un-erring in their help.The local residents and the local councils have too been tremendous in recognising the benefit the festival has given to Alresford, and their support has meant that the festival has been able to grow to an event that welcomed over 4,000 people in 2017.The festival licence is for only 5,000 people on the day, so though tickets may sell out in future years, this limit will keep the festival a small and intimate event for everyone to enjoy safely.

AMF is proud of the respect it extends to performers and the standard of back stage care offered. As a result the bands often give their time and talent freely or at a hugely reduced rate.They revel in the relaxed vibe and

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Alresford Music Festival has also focused on building a reputation for making families and first time festival goers feel extra welcome, providing the perfect and safest place to enjoy some of the best and most varied music around.The festival is also keen to provide a platform for young musicians from local schools and colleges to play on the big stage and has regularly showcased young artists, hoping to provide inspiration to the younger generation of future musicians.

This all adds up to a hidden gem of a festival – of which we should all be justly proud. Plans are well underway for 2018 and with the help and support of our marvellous community – it is set to be the best yet!

The charities AMF supported in 2017 were: Winnall Rock School Providing free music tuition and band workshops as well as bespoke or outreach programmes for aspiring musicians who would otherwise not have access or need additional support.

Key Changes Award winning music engagement and recovery services in hospitals and the community for people experiencing mental health problems.

Harmony of Hope Dedicated to bringing the healing power of music to improve the lives of refugees affected by conflict.

The festival is run by volunteers and is not-for-profit.

AMF Foundation Reg Charity No 1168066 For further information please contact: Sue Thomas 0333 9000 975 info@alresfordmusicfestival.com

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Community ALRESFORD MEN’S SHED - UPDATE

The range of skills represented includes joiner, cabinet maker, lawyer, and IT specialists. There are people who want to learn skills and do woodworking, electronics, mobility aids, DIY, building an electric car and fixing motorbikes. If you haven’t got the skill you can gain it in a friendly relaxed environment. An appropriate building (>120 m2, bigger than 4 double garages) with minimal rent - hasn’t been found so far, but if you know of one please contact us. We believe that ultimately we shall have to build our own. We have applied to Alresford Town Council for land at Arlebury Park to build it on, and building plans are being drawn up for when we get some land.

Meanwhile, until the shed is ready, we are seeking a shop or office near the centre of town where we can set up a Pop-up Repair Centre, which would provide a repair/recycling service for household objects.

We throw away vast amounts of stuff, things with almost nothing wrong with them. These could get a new lease of life after a simple repair, that small job that you can’t get a tradesman to do, in exchange for a donation to the shed. We are applying on many fronts for funding and have so far received £1,500 from Alresford Pigs with a promise of more, £800 from Jackie Porter(Lib Dem) Hampshire County Councillor, and we have asked our Town Council for building land and funding.

T

he setting up of a Men’s Shed in Alresford is making good progress. We don’t have a building yet but we are working hard towards it with our expanded team of seven trustees.

More than thirty people who are interested in joining have contacted us since we advertised in the October Forum.

The next Shed meeting is at Arlebury Park on 14th December at 11.00 am. Come along and find out what it’s all about. Meet the guys with whom you will be working shoulder to shoulder over a drink and a snack after the meeting. But please, for catering number, it is essential that you contact us to notify your attendance if you didn’t come to the October meeting.

CITIZENS ADVICE - WINCHESTER Lesley Rose, Advice Services Manager at Citizens Advice Winchester District discusses the alternatives to prepayment meters if you’re behind on your energy bills.

Q A

I am behind on my energy bills and my energy company wants to install a prepayment meter. I don't want one as I've heard they can be more expensive than paying by direct debit. What can I do?

Suppliers may try to install a prepayment meter if you are falling behind on your bills. This is so you can pay for your energy by topping up your meter before you use it, and don’t get into debt.

If you don’t want to pay for energy in this way, contact your supplier to tell them you are struggling with your bills. They should help you agree a repayment plan, based on how much you can afford and how much energy you use. If you are already on a plan but can’t afford it, see if you can make a new arrangement.

Also discuss with your supplier the costs of the different meters and tariffs. Once you’ve agreed to pay back your debts, your supplier won’t install a prepayment meter if you don’t want one.

There are further steps you can take to help you with your bills.You may be eligible for the Warm Home Discount, which could reduce your energy bill by £140, or a one off Cold Weather Payment from the government.

Some energy companies also offer grants to their customers to pay off fuel debts, while other companies and charities have grants which are open to anyone.

For further help on negotiating with your supplier or applying for benefits, contact our Advice Line on 03444 111306 or visit your nearest advice centre. www.citizensadvice.org.uk has a full list of local Citizens Advice services.

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AVINGTON PARK GOLF CLUB SUPPORT SEBASTIAN'S ACTION TRUST

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he Ladies’ and Seniors’ section of The Avington Park Golf Club were delighted to present a cheque for the amazing sum of £3,830 to Robert Taylor from Sebastian’s Action Trust. This sum was raised over the year in a variety of raffles, golf competitions and the very popular coffee morning, where we welcomed ladies from local clubs.

Sebastian’s Action Trust has created the UK's only purpose-built facility that offers respite holidays to very sick children and their families, enabling precious time to be spent together. The Bluebells, has been built in the pretty Hampshire village of North Waltham. It opened in July 2011. Nothing like this previously existed in the UK, making The Bluebells the first of its kind. The Trust continues to develop this local facility and we have been privileged to be invited to visit and see the wonderful care that is being provided.

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COMMU N IT Y ISSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Community

WINCHESTER GETS THE RARE TREATMENT!

O

n Thursday 30 November and Friday 1 December, The Rare Brand Market comes to Winchester Guildhall. www. therarebrandmarket.co.uk. Founded in 2008,The Rare Brand Market set out to bridge the vast gap between a London style shopping event and a regional charity fair. A regular fixture at The Goodwood Estate in West Sussex,The Rare Brand Market is now expanding to Winchester, and next year London.

The Rare Brand Market focuses on emerging brands, brands that are likely to have been created in the last 1 to 3 years. Over one hundred brands are on board, ranging from homeware, lifestyle products, jewellery, clothing (men’s, women’s, childrenswear), condiments, furniture, garden ornaments, accessories, and services. Over one-third of brands are based within an hour of Winchester - bringing together Winchester-based brands such as Inigo Scout (https://twitter.com/inigoscout) - for every purchase of their luxury, limited-edition handwoven blankets, it pays for a craftsperson to knit at least 10 blankets for children in need of warmth in their local community; Alton-based Upper Crust Crackers (https:// www.uppercrustcrackers.co.uk) selling British made luxury celebration crackers, as well as those from London such as Olivia Creber jewellery

STEVE BRINE M.P

F

irst of all, something very local and I am absolutely delighted plans for the Winchester Hospice are now out there. Great credit to the Trust for laying out ambitious plans for a 10-bed hospice supporting patients with life limiting illnesses and their families. For years now people in Winchester have said we are lacking a hospice to care for adults; we have the world-leading Naomi House for children of course but nothing for older patients and that was never sustainable in the long-term. £2.5 million is a lot of money but everything about this feels right and I know my constituents will really put their shoulder to the wheel and help us get over the line so the new facility can open on time in 2019. I will be supporting the project every step of the way. More at: www.stevebrine.com/hospice Secondly, constituents know I work assiduously on the issue of our train service and stick close to SWR who have of course taken over the local franchise from South West Trains. They’ve had a busy start what with the major works at London Waterloo and a (totally unnecessary) strike.

One thing they are also embarking on at this time is a major consultation over proposed changes to the timetable and this matters, especially for commuters using the smaller stations at Micheldever Station and Shawford. I would urge constituents to catch-up on all of this, and be sure to have your say, via www.southwesternrailway.com and you can see my extensive pages online at: www.stevebrine.com/trains Now for something more global and Health Ministers from the G7 met in Milan last month and I was there representing the UK.The G7 is a group made up of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States representing the seven largest advanced economies in the world and the 2017 Presidency is held by the Italians.

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(http://oliviacreber.com/about) inspired by Australian and Sussex landscapes and further afield such as Sails & Canvas (https://www. sailsandcanvas.co.uk/our-story/ ) based in Topsham Devon, upcycling sail cloth to make beautiful lifestyle products. All will occupy The Guildhall over just two days.These are brands you won’t find on the high street and are created by businesses that have great back stories.Winchester shoppers will have the ability to source unique products at a time when an alarming number of independent shops seem to be disappearing from our increasingly homogenized high street.

The Rare Brand Market likes to give back. Working with local schools, half of each ticket sold will be donated to a charity of their choice. So, if you want to find unique products and meet the founders behind them, come to our markets...they are always in fabulous venues, never outside or in a marquee. Shopping has become soulless,The Rare Brand Market puts the theatre back into shopping, we make it pleasurable and wholesome again.

Founder Emma Schwarz, who’s lived on the South coast all her life, has been a retailer since her teens, working for Big giants like Marks and Spencer PLC, medium brands like Sofa Workshop and luxury product start ups. More recently she helped to create the exclusive retail range for the Limewood Hotel Group, in the New Forest. She is also a huge foodie and has judged with The Guild of Fine Food / Great Taste Awards and has written a Cookbook and published a Food Magazine.

The Guildhall in Winchester has been chosen for its central location and beautiful interior, with The Rare Brand Market occupying the whole of the first floor. Our different offering will compliment Winchester’s celebrated Christmas Market and high street markets. With The Rare Brand Market’s distinctive shopping experience and curation of brands, we really are a pop-up Lifestyle Shopping dream come true!

The agenda covered climate variability and its impact on human health, women's and adolescent's health as well as anti-microbial resistance. It was my honour to lead the UK delegation and I told the meeting that the UK was totally committed to the Paris Climate Change Agreement and spoke about action our Government is taking to tackle air pollution which is responsible for some 40,000 early deaths each year.

I also addressed fellow Ministers on the subject of women in the developing word having access to the same high quality family planning and sexual health services enjoyed in the UK and said it was time to focus seriously on the issue of perinatal health and the critical importance of the first 1000 days of a child's life. You can see much more from the G7 including the full Communique, pictures from the ‘family’ photo and the end of summit press conference at www.stevebrine.com/SteveatG7

And finally, my 2017 Christmas Card competition is now complete and it’s congratulations to Ruby Richardson of Itchen Abbas Primary School who won the Year 5 contest with her lovely design. See all entries, plus the overall winner, at www.stevebrine.com/christmascard You can find more about my work, locally and in Westminster, via my website and at www.facebook.com/SteveBrineMP Steve Brine - MP for Winchester, Alresford & Itchen Valley

COMMU N IT Y ISSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Winchester City Councillor Monthly Report New website WCC has a fab new look website which is much more user friendly, but it’s not quite right yet! There have been a few hitches so bear with us whilst it’s put right.

If you, for example, residents look at the Benefits section (http://www.winchester.gov.uk/benefits) you will find guidance and forms all in one place and much easier to access. Of course, staff are still available to speak to if you need further guidance on this or any other area of responsibility.

Major Projects http://www.winchester.gov.uk/major-projects The above link will take you to the page in the website to learn about the progress on major projects for WCC. Autumn work : Grounds and Streetcare http://www.winchester.gov.uk/waste-recycling/grounds-and-streetcare WCC clean and sweep public highways in the district and arranges for grass verges and open spaces to be cut. We currently have 9 cuts per annum in most areas which has recently been increased to account for the longer growing period now experienced in southern England. The link above will provides more detail on Streetcare, 2017 Grass Cutting & Leaf Clearance Programmes, plus Local Litter Champions.

Winchester City Council successfully prosecutes fly-tipping offenders WINCHESTER City Council has demonstrated its zero tolerance approach to fly-tipping following another successful prosecution – maintaining its 100% success rate in bringing offenders to account.

Please DO NOT TOUCH flytip but report to WCC on their website.

Just a thought When it comes to Local Plan delivery … at some point new housing and open spaces will become available in Alresford & Itchen Valley communities Hillier’s Haven comes to Abbotts Barton A new green recreational space will soon open for local residents in Abbotts Barton, thanks to an investment by Winchester City Council to the tune of £100,000. The name “Hillier’s Haven” was suggested by local resident and Winchester Cub Scout after he won a competition to come up with a good name for the area.

The previously inaccessible site, which is adjacent to Hillier Way car park, will be developed into a natural recreational area for the enjoyment of local residents. It is an integral part of the housing development project in Hillier Way and will also be home to the new 6th Winchester Scout Hut. Hillier’s Haven will feature paths through the woodland, a meadow area with stone fire pits, bird and bat boxes, a sculpture trail, and interpretation boards showing a map of the area and details of the animals and plants you might come across.

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New Winchester Sport & Leisure Park – Bar End Now that the facility mix has been agreed: the major facilities being a hydrotherapy suite, 50m pool and 8 court sports hall, as well as a myriad of other offerings, a third phase of engagement will commence on 8 December 2017 and will run into early January 2018.

Please make sure you take a look at the concept designs and provide your comments when the engagement goes live.

What can I comment on?

Winchester Movement Strategy Hampshire County Council and Winchester City Council are encouraging people to take part in a consultation which will improve how people travel in and around Winchester. Feedback will help shape a new Winchester Movement Strategy, which will focus on what is really important to residents, commuters and visitors, when it comes to travel.

The councils wish to hear people’s views on questions such as: how to achieve the right balance between different types of traffic, how best to support growth and economic vibrancy, improving air quality and any other issues which are important to residents. https://www.hants.gov.uk/winchestermovementstrategy The consultation starts on Monday 30 October, and runs until Friday 8 December.

Central Winchester Regeneration Project Winchester City Council is consulting on a draft Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) for the Central Winchester Regeneration Area (CWR area). The draft SPD will be considered by the Council’s Cabinet on Wednesday 6 December when approval will be sought to start the formal consultation.You are welcome to attend this meeting. If agreed, the formal consultation will start on Monday 11 December with an exhibition at the Winchester Guildhall from 2pm until 9pm.You will be able to speak to the team on that day and give your comments then if you prefer. https://winchester.citizenspace.com/policy/cwr-draft-spd/ You may make a comment at any time from 31 October and all comments made will be considered as part of the consultation process.

Please ensure you submit your comments by 12 noon on 5 February 2018.

Wishing all our residents a joyful Christmas!

You can contact your City Councillors as follows Cllr Kim Gottlieb - kgottlieb@winchester.gov.uk Tel : 07795 494919 Cllr Lisa Griffiths - lgriffiths@winchester.gov.uk Tel : 01962 738646 or 07545 375632 Cllr Ernie Jeffs - ejeffs@winchester.gov.uk Tel : 01962 734629 or 07887 536966

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FEATU R E ISSUE 134 | DECEMBER

In at a trot and out at a gallop: floating a water meadow for winter

W

hen I visited Itchen Stoke Mill Farm a few weeks ago, the trees had lost their leaves but the River Itchen still sparkled in the late autumn sunshine. Alresford folk often walk, cycle or drive past the farm’s glorious water meadow on their way to lunch at The Bush Inn, Ovington, but few get the chance to stop and watch the meadow work. I was lucky to be invited with my family, neighbours and their dogs to join the Hampshire Conservation Volunteers (HCV) as they prepared to open a vital sluice gate.This gate would divert the river ‘in at a trot and out at a gallop’ through the ancient network of ditches and drains, floating the meadow for winter.

Hugh Corry, the HCV’s librarian, told me that this story began nearly 400 years ago, when an enterprising mill owner heard of some new improved agricultural methods being tried out in the East Anglian fens. Controlled flooding in the autumn would protect the grass from frost (it takes a lot more cold to freeze a sheet of moving water than an unprotected tussock of grass) and spring flooding would boost the growth of the meadow with nutrient-rich silt.The only snag was, digging out a network of ditches from scratch by hand would very hard work – where would the mill owner get the staff? Fortunately, the corn mill at Itchen Stoke served two villages: Itchen Stoke on the north bank and Ovington on the south.With stakeholders in both parishes, he could call on plenty of labour to develop the meadows.The villagers started digging between 1635 and 1650, running feeder channels in on ridges along drainage ditches and out through the hollows.The system’s sinuous paths still trace the contours today, and look more like a human circulatory system than the regular herringbone design used later in Victorian water meadows. After the initial great dig, the ditches were maintained by one man, the ‘drowner’, and a boy who worked from October to April.They kept the system clear of blockages, ensuring that one inch of water could be made to ebb and flow steadily across the meadow during that period.

The project was successful.The water meadow produced early grass for the sheep in the spring, and two or three hay crops each year, doubling

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its productivity in the days before synthetic fertilisers. Maybe it was too successful, for the Itchen Stoke Mill meadow got left behind. Its owners ignored ‘Turnip’Townshend’s four-field crop rotation in the eighteenth century, rejected guano imports from Chile in the nineteenth and spurned synthetic nitrate fertilisers in the twentieth.

The net result is an ancient water meadow, bustling with birds, animals, river creatures and flowers.The Harrison family manage the farm as a River Itchen Site of Special Scientific Interest and qualify for Natural England’s Higher level Stewardship. For the last 40 years, the HCV have also helped by taking on the drowner’s job for one weekend every autumn, digging annual regrowth out of ditches and shoring up mud dams. Even with the assistance of modern power tools, it’s hard-going physical work, but as the team-leader, Karen Minett, explained, ‘It’s special, an annual vigil.There’s a huge sense of satisfaction when they flood the meadow on the Sunday afternoon.’

‘We’re ready to open the sluice now!’ It was time for the HCV team to straighten their backs, children to squelch out of the ditches and dogowners to haul swimming Labradors out of the river.When everyone was accounted for, Roger Harrison opened the gate and a silver thread of water started flowing along the main channel. It was like watching the tide flood the moat of a giant sandcastle.Then smaller hatches were opened and boards pushed down, switching the flow into arteries and veins and bringing the circulation system to life.The children rescued field voles and beetles as they scurried from their flooded homes and the grown-ups followed the flowing water down the valley. It went further than ever this year, almost reaching the disused watercress beds beside the lane.Tongue in cheek, Roger said, ‘I’ve got a book indoors with instructions on how to roll the worm-casts off the meadow, in order to scythe the hay more efficiently next year.’ But this would have to wait for a future task - the HCV team were intent on reaching the mill and their well-deserved tea.

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H OME I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

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COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Useful Information EMERGENCY SERVICES O Emergency Only (Ambulance, Fire, Police) Tel: 999

O Alton Community Hospital Alton, Hampshire Tel: 01420 82811

O Non Emergency Medical Services Tel: 111

O North Hants Hospital Basingstoke, Hampshire Tel: 01256 473202

O Electricity Emergency 24hrs, 7 days a week Tel: 08457 708090

O Royal Hampshire County Hospital Winchester, Hampshire Tel: 01962 863535

O Gas Emergency 24 hrs, 7 days a week Tel: 0800 111 999 O Water Emergency 24 hrs, 7 days a week Tel: 0845 278 0845

POLICE For non-Emergency Services Call Hampshire Police using: 101

CITIZENS ADVICE O Winchester Citizens Advice Bureau Winchester Citizens Advice Bureau is back at the Alresford Surgery If you need help Contact CAB on 01962 848000 or drop in to the surgery on Mondays between 1- 3pm (not bank holidays)

COUNCILS O Alresford Town Council Arlebury Park,The Avenue, Alresford, Hants. SO24 9EP. Clerk: Mrs Stevie Kavanagh, skavanagh@newalresfordtc. org.uk Tel: 01962 732079 O East Hampshire District Council Penns Place, Petersfield, GU31 4EX www.easthants.gov.uk Tel: 01730 266551 O Hampshire County Council The Castle,Winchester, SO23 8UJ www.hants.gov.uk Tel: 0845 603 5638 O Winchester City Council City Offices, Colebrook Street, Winchester, SO23 9LJ www.winchester.gov.uk Tel: 01962 840222 66

HOSPITALS

LIBRARY O Alresford Library Monday 10.00 - 1.00 (Knit and Natter 10.30 to 12pm) Tuesday 2.00 - 5.00 (Storytime 2.15 to 2.45) Wed/Sun Closed Thursday 10.00 - 1.00 Friday 10.00 - 7.00 Saturday 10.00 - 1.00 alresford.library@hants.gov.uk www3.hants.gov.uk/library.htm

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH O Alresford and District Neighbourhood Watch Association Newsletter available at www.alresford.org/ neigbourhoodwatch.To report a crime anonymously call Crimestoppers:Tel: 0800 555 111 contact: Administrator Jennie Roberts Tel: 01962 736505 e-mail jenniero987@gmail.com

RECYCLING O Prospect Road Recycling Centre Open seven days a week Tel: 01962 735961

SCHOOLS O Cheriton Primary School Cheriton, Alresford, SO24 0QA Tel: 01962 771278 O Four Marks Primary School Four Marks, Alton, GU34 5AS Tel: 01962 772200 O Itchen Abbas County Primary School Itchen Abbas, SO21 1BE

Tel: 01962 779310 O Medstead Primary School Medstead, Alton, GU34 5LG Tel: 01420 562824 O Perins School Pound Hill, Alresford, SO24 9BS www.perins.net Tel: 01962 734361 O Ropley Primary School Church St. Ropley, SO24 ODS Tel: 01962 772381 O Sun Hill Infant School Sun Lane, Alresford www.sunhill-inf.hants.sch.uk email: beverley.minall@sunhill -inf.hants.sch.uk Tel: 01962 732632 O Sun Hill Junior School Sun Lane, Alresford www.sunhill-jun.hants.sch.uk Tel: 01962 732801

SURGERIES & CHEMISTS O Alresford Dental Care 4 Pound Hill, Alresford www.alresforddentalcare.co.uk Surgery Hours: Monday to Thursday 9:00 to 17:15.

Friday 08:00 to 13:45 Tel: 01962 733580 O Alresford Pharmacy 1 East Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732858 O Alresford Surgery Station Road, Alresford www.alresfordsurgery.co.uk Tel: 01962 732345 O Mansfield Park Surgery Lymington Bottom Road, Medstead, GU34 5EW Tel: 01420 562922 O Out of Hours Service Anyone requiring a chemist service out of practice hours will find their nearest point is either Winchester, Basingstoke or Andover. Call one of the below for details. Out of Hours Service - Tel: 0844 8113060 O Wessex Pharmacy Broad Street, Alresford.

Tel: 01962 732445 O Winchester Cancer Support Centre Offering free, non-clinical support to anyone affected

by cancer. 2nd Floor, 68 St Georges Street,Winchester.

Chat to trained befrienders, try a complementary therapy or use our professional counselling service. Tue to Thur, 10am to 4.30pm.Tel: 01962 868576 or winchester@wessexcancer.org

TOWN & VILLAGE HALLS O Alresford Community Centre Secretary: Robbie Winters (after 6pm)Tel: 01962 733950 O Beauworth Village Hall Contact Felicity Morrogh.

Tel: 01962 793075 O Bighton Village Hall Gail Johnson: 01962 736556 email: bighton.hall.bookings@ googlemail.com. www.bighton.org.uk O Bishop’s Sutton Village Hall Please contact Vera on: 01962 736211 or email veralipscombe@gmail.com O Bramdean and Hinton Ampner Village Hall Tel: 01962 771945 O Cheriton Village Hall Tel penny on: 01962 771263 O Christy Hall, Old Alresford Diane Cox: 01962 735388 O Itchen Abbas Village Hall Jenny Sloan - Tel: 07969 113630 www.iaavillagehall.co.uk O Kilmeston Village Hall www.kilmestonvillagehall.co.uk or phone Melanie Hill: 01962 771388 or email bookings@ kilmestonvillagehall.co.uk O Ropley Coffee Room Church Street, Ropley, Alresford, SO24 0DS. For bookings contact David Ottley: 01962 772440 O Ropley Parish Hall Vicarage Lane, Ropley, SO24 0DU. For bookings contact Norma Day: 01962 772267

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COMMU N IT Y ISSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Community ALRESFORD RUGBY CLUB

S

tarting with the 1st XV, we finished the month of October in promising fashion. Next up since the last publication was Fordinbridge, who were sitting alongside us in mid table after five matches played. In testing conditions ARFC came away with a well deserved, if a somewhat disappointing 10 -10 draw. Maybe that was just a reflection of how we have met our standards and the desire to keep improving. Next were Ellingham and Ringwood and in a fantastic match, played in front of a very enthusiastic support, saw ARFC squeeze out a narrow 5 point win. With games coming almost weekly and the level of intensity of impacts the players are taking being so much increased, injuries were starting to play a part. This is not an excuse for falling short against our next opponents Fareham Heathens who played well, but it is a factor with the numbers of players in the club. However, with so many players missing we finished, for this edition with a really encouraging and resounding win against Ventnor.

The 2's in Snows Group Solent League 2 are a credit to this club. With players missing from the Firsts, the due process is to replace missing first teamers with players from the 2's.Yet, each match ARFC Seconds somehow field a side. With tough games against Havant A, Millbrook 2nds and Andover 3rds, and despite going down to these sides, as you will see from the results every game remained competitive. Their last result for this edition was a truly spirited draw away at a very strong Fareham Heathen outfit.

RESULTS SNOWS GROUP HAMPSHIRE LEAGUE 1 21/10/17 Fordingbridge (A) 10 -10 Draw 28/10/17 Ellingham and Ringwood (H) 33 -28 Win Fareham Heathens (A) 17 - 34 Loss 11/11 Ventnor (H) 57 - 10 Win

RESULTS SNOWS GROUPSOLENT LEAGUE 2 21/10 Havant A (A) 5- 41 Loss 28/10 Andover 3Rds (A) 7 - 22 Loss 4/11 Millbrook 2Nds (H) 12 - 34 Loss 11/11 Fareham Heathens (A) 10 - 10 Draw.

DECEMBER FIXTURES 1STXV 16/12/17 Overton (H) 2ND XV 9/12/17 Portsmouth 3rds (H) 16/12/17 Petersfield (A)

alresfordrfc.weebly.com

For more details of the club events and match reports please visit our website

DE

AN

BING & HEAT M U IN PL G

L

TD

Your support and interest in Alresford Rugby Club is more appreciated than you may realise. From players, coaches, members and regulars, the positive support from the touchline can really make a difference between winning and losing. We would really like to encourage some who just come to First's fixtures, or as of yet to watch a match, to maybe alternate your support between the 1's and 2's and give the seconds some much appreciated vocals from the touchline.

All games in December will kick off at 2pm and as always, the bar will be open for all home games for refreshments and post match speeches.

Again ARFC would like to thank everyone for your support and look forward to seeing you in December for both sides to finish as strongly as possible.

AN APOLOGY

T

he Itchen Valley Forum would like to apologise to Gail Hampshire, who's image appeared on the July 2016 cover. The image of a Marbled White and Silver-Washed Fritillary butterfly was not accredited to Gail by us, due to a oversight when putting the magazine together. The Forum magazine is always appreciative to photographers, painters and designers for its beautiful covers and we often run free editorial content to help promote their work.

Gail is a very talented local photographer, if you would like to see more of her work visit at: https://www.flickr.com/ photos/43272765@N04 68

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H OME I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

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COMMU N IT Y I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

Alresford & District Neighbourhood Watch

J

oining your local Neighbourhood Watch offers the benefit of a safer community. But what does it mean for your home insurance? As you live in the Alresford area you are almost certainly a member of the Neighbourhood Watch already.

You have hopefully heard of the scheme, or seen the round sticker or street signs.

But joining Neighbourhood Watch can be about more than a sticker or a sign. It's about creating a community where its members can feel safe and what most people don't realise, is that it could also reduce your home insurance premiums.

The aim is to reduce the fear of crime in the area through better home security measures; the reporting of crime and suspicious behaviour and good old-fashioned community spirit. But more than that, Neighbourhood Watch forms an integral part of the Home Office’s crime-reduction strategy. It's also considered to be the biggest and most successful crime-prevention initiative ever released.

So, what does Neighbourhood Watch do?

The aim is to provide a support network for communities to: • Step up the security of their property through shared advice.

• Increase vigilance, and build a network of crime reporting and ‘human home alarms’ in order to keep the local area more secure.

• Provide a network for the police, to pass information to communities regarding crime trends or possible issues in their area.

• Generally build a greater feeling of community in local areas.

If you're looking for more information, the Neighbourhood Watch website is a really useful resource. It can be found at https://www. ourwatch.org.uk/ They've got loads of useful packs and information on there, such as: • When and how to make a call to the emergency services • How to spot and deal with bogus callers

NEW WINCHESTER SPORT AND LEISURE CENTRE PLANS APPROVED

W

inchester Sport and Leisure Centre moved another step closer to becoming a reality after the Council’s Cabinet rubber-stamped the procurement strategy, facility mix and needs assessment in a meeting on Monday afternoon in Whiteley. Members of the public heard how a state-of-the-art facility at Bar End will replace River Park Leisure Centre, with the new building in Bar End combining with the existing facilities on the site to provide a comprehensive package of indoor and outdoor activities.

Last year a facility mix was determined to be tested as part of the design and business case by the Council’s specialist Leisure consultants. Following a needs assessment, the proposed facility mix includes a 50m pool and an eight court sport hall built to high specification with a sprung timber floor and greater run off areas between courts than the existing River Park Leisure Centre. Other facilities include a separate teaching pool with movable floor, 250 spectator seats and a water play area, clip and climb facility, four squash courts, 200 gym stations, a hydrotherapy suite and eight treatment rooms, two large studios and one spin studio.

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• Tackling distraction burglary • Protecting your home from fire They also cover topics such as making your community a safer place to live, and the importance of mobile and internet safety. So, being a member of your local Neighbourhood Watch group could reduce the price you pay for your home insurance. Most home insurance companies will ask if the policy holder is a part of the Neighbourhood Watch scheme. This could mean that insurance companies will view you as someone who is less likely to become a victim of crime. Not all insurers will provide a significant discount for members. But many do as you're seen to be taking active steps to keep yourself and your home safe and your insurer is likely to take this into account.

If you would like to know more about your local Neighbourhood Watch, or would like to become the Co-ordinator for either the Bridge Road or Chiltern Court areas, where we currently have vacancies, please contact us at contact.adnwa@gmail.com.

Please remain vigilant over the holiday period, but above all have a safe and happy Christmas.

CONTACTING ADNWA OR POLICE: ADNWA website: www.neighbourhood.watch.alresford.org e-mail us at: contact.adnwa@gmail.com CRIME IN PROGRESS: RING 999 NON-URGENT ISSUES: RING 101 (if you observe suspicious activity) CRIMESTOPPERS: 0800 555 111

Cabinet also agreed that the procurement strategy which was reviewed

by Mace, the Council’s appointed project managers and cost consultants.

Mace recommended that the council adopt a two stage design and build process, which will transfer construction risk and provide a clear construction cost.

Cllr Lisa Griffiths, the Council’s Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing said, “We recognise that there is strong support for a new Sport and Leisure facility in the District as our current leisure centre comes towards the end of its useful life.

Today’s landmark decision to progress the new development will address this. We need to look to the future, and, having listened to the public and taken on board advice from the experts, are confident that we can create better facilities that offer a broader range of sport and leisure opportunities for the district’s communities.”

The vision for the facility is for it to reflect the needs and aspirations of the broadest possible mix of users in the Winchester district and encompass developing sporting trends and developments. The project looks to foster the improved the health and happiness for residents in a wide district catchment.

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H OME I SSU E 1 3 4 | D E CE MB E R

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