King Alfred’s Cakes - a curious find with royal Hampshire link
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Black pudding hash with egg and Sriracha sauce
GARDEN FEATURE
Discovering Queen Eleanor’s Garden
STYLE ˙ INTERIORS ˙ HEALTH & BEAUTY ˙ INTERVIEWS ˙ FOOD & DRINK ˙ ENTERTAINMENT ˙ EVENTS
Cover image: St. Mary’s Church, Itchen Stoke
We specialise in replacing wet belts on manufacturers such as Ford, Peugeot, Citroën and Vauxhall, we work with a wide range of engines - including Ford EcoBoost and EcoBlue, Peugeot and Citroën PureTech, Vauxhall 1.0 and 1.2 as well as other European models using wet-belt systems
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Forthcoming Events
New Alresford WI “The Saxophone”
Wednesday 4 March
From 7.30pm
St Gregory’s Church Hall, 1 Grange Road, Alresford, SO24 9HD
A talk by Jon Woodhouse - Jon’s talk will include information about the saxophone, the people he met and his experiences as an army musician.
Cheriton Talks 2026 - Beyond The Horizon
Saturday 7 March
From 6.30pm
St Michaels Church, Cheriton, SO24 0PZ
Lessons from the Edge of the World with Tom Skinner Learn about the challenge. 6.30pm for canapés and a complimentary glass of wine. Tickets £16 from www.cheritontalks.com and more information.
Alresford & District Horticultural Society Spring Show
Wednesday 11 March
From 7.30pm to 9.30pm
St Gregory’s Parish Hall, Grange Road, SO24 9HE
Entry for Members only but visitors welcome to attend - £3. Refreshments available. Further information at www.alresfordhorticultural.org
Cheriton Talks - Painters and their Private Lives
Saturday 14 March
From 6.30pm
St Michaels Church, Cheriton, SO24 0PZ
Art in 19th Century Venice with Douglas Skeggs. 6.30pm for canapés and a complimentary glass of wine. Tickets £16 from www.cheritontalks. com
An Evening with Henry Ayling Join us for an evening of folky, bluesy, jazzy fingerpicking acoustic guitar and vocals. Refreshments available.
Saturday 14 March
From 5pm
St Mary’s Church, Church Lane, Easton, Winchester SO21 1EH
Tickets £15, £5 under 18s. Seated and standing available from: https:// www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/ winchester/st-marys-church/anevening-with-henry-ayling/e-groplx
Alresford Historical and Literary Society Don’t Delay - Enrol Today!’ - the Women’s Land Army in Hampshire a talk by Dr John Lander.
Ropley Horticultural Society Spring Show
Saturday 21 March
From 2.30pm
Ropley Parish Hall, SO24 0DU
Come along and enjoy meeting friends and have a cup of tea. Free entry and parking.
Alresford Antiques Fair
Saturday 21 March
From 9.30am to 4.30pm
Alresford Community Centre, West Street, New Alresford, SO24 9AG
We offer a wide range of Decorative, Useful, Interesting, Unusual & Quirky items including good quality Furniture, Silver, Jewellery, China and Glass. We will also buy. Free Admission & good parking available nearby. The Fair is on the third Saturday of the month. Confirm future dates in Antiques Atlas: https://antiques-atlas.com/dbevents/ Instagram - carolfentumantiques Carol - 01264 335769 / 07870 432805
St Matthew PassionRomsey Abbey
Saturday 21 March
From 6.30pm
Romsey Abbey, Church Lane, Romsey, SO51 8EP
Looking forward to Easter… local choirs: Kingsgate Voices and Southern Voices will join forces with a host of famous soloists and firstclass orchestra to perform JS Bach’s St Matthew Passion on 21 March at 6.30pm (NB: early start time).
Katharine Fuge, Malachy Frame, Jessica Gillingwater and Gareth Brynmor John will be joined by rising stars including Sebastian Hill accompanied on period instruments by London Baroque Sinfonia with Andrew Hayman conducting and Winchester Cathedral Girls Choir. Perhaps a once in a life-time opportunity to hear this great work. Tickets £38, £28, £18 (concessions available): ticketsource.co.uk/ musicinromsey (0333 666 4466) and from Oasis Bookshop, 25 Church Street, Romsey (01794 512194).
Come & Sing ABBA at St Peter’s, Ropley
Sunday 22 March
Doors and Bar open 5pm
St Peter’s Church, Ropley, SO24 0DS
Singing: 5.30pm - 6.30pm. Come and join us for this irresistible ABBA event - an hour-long singalong of ABBA songs led by Peter Gritton and Joya Logan using a mix of scintillating soundtracks and live instruments to guide everyone on an ABBA journey through their greatest hits. No rehearsal, just come and sing to release your inner ABBA! For everyone aged 10 upwards. Dressing up welcome but not compulsory. Tickets: £10 adults and £5 children (10-16 years old) from www. stpetersropleyvenue.org.uk
Alresford Flower Club Demonstration
Wednesday 25 March
From 7.30pm (Doors 7pm)
St. Gregory’s Church Hall, Grange Road, Alresford, SO24 9HB
A demonstration by Amanda Sweet
“Worse Things Happen at Sea” Visitors welcome.
Alresford Art Society: A demonstration Cow Parsley and Dandelion Clocks in mixed media by Rachael Alexander
Thursday 26 March
From 7.30pm
Bishops Sutton Village Hall, Alresford, SO24 0AH
Non-members welcome, admission £3. For further information: 01962 733031 or visit www.artsociety. alresford.org
The Waynflete Singers are joined by the English Chamber Orchestra and Winchester Cathedral Chamber Choir for Elgar’s Dream of Gerontius
Friday 27 March
From 7pm
Winchester Cathderal, 9 The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS
A stellar lineup of soloists includes Dame Sarah Connolly making her debut appearance in Winchester Cathedral. Andrew Lumsden, musical director of the Waynflete Singers will conduct the proceedings. And if you’ve seen the film The Choral, this concert is of course unmissable! Tickets £15 - £50 For tickets visit Winchester Cathedral events online or call the box office 01962 857275 https://www.winchester-cathedral. org.uk/event/elgars-dream-ofgerontius-with-the-waynfletesingers/
Itchen Abbas Village Hall Alresford Rotary Quiz of the Year 2026
Friday 27 March
From 6.30pm to 7pm
Itchen Abbas Village Hall, Itchen Abbas, SO21 1BQ
Licensed Bar, Supper, Raffle and Prizes. £15 each - 6 per table. To book or for further details email James Pinneger or 01962 738788. All profits to Rotary Charities.
For more forthcoming events see page 12 >>
FIRESEEKER
OUTDOOR KITCHENS
At Fireseeker, we believe the kitchen is the heart of the home—even when it’s under the stars. We don’t just install grills; we design culinary sanctuaries. From sleek, polished concrete countertops to professional-grade Argentine grills and artisan pizza ovens, we bring the sophistication of your indoor space into the fresh air.
Don’t let the weather dictate your weekend. We design bespoke pergolas and shelters that weather-proof your BBQ, ensuring the party goes on even when the clouds roll in.
WHY CHOOSE FIRESEEKER?
• Bespoke Design: Tailored specifically to your garden’s footprint and your cooking style.
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CONTACT US FOR A FREE QUOTATION AND HOME VISIT TODAY
Fireseeker is subsidiary of Happy Kitchens UK
Makeover Options
• Change all your drawers, doors, panels and plinths
• New worktops can be fitted
• Amendments to existing cabinetry and layout can be made
• Built in ovens can be changed to eye level ovens
• No one will know its a makeover, it will look like a brand new kitchen
• All doors made to order to any size
Our head fitters are ex-shipwright joiners so you are guaranteed excellent quality installation.
•
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Makeover
We are lucky to live in such a beautiful place, with its chalk streams, Georgian townhouses, and individual shops.
Hellards is very much part of the furniture locally, having set up home in Alresford in 1988. Over the years our experienced team have helped many local people sell or let their homes.
If you are considering a move this year, or would like some honest, independent advice, please contact one of our friendly team to book in a free market appraisal.
We hope to hear from you soon!
STEP INTO SPRING AT WELBORNE
If you’ve visited Welborne recently, you’ll have seen how quickly the landscape is taking shape. With all three housebuilder show homes opening, the wider setting is beginning to reflect the season too.
Across Dashwood, Welborne’s ancient woodland, primroses and wood anemones are starting to emerge beneath the canopy. It’s an early sign of what makes this place distinctive: more than 50% of Welborne is accessible green space, embedded from the outset rather than added later. This isn’t landscaping as an afterthought. It’s part of the structure of this garden village.
Blooming Marvellous
Newly planted semimature trees around the homes are coming into leaf, while Dashwood’s established woodland continues to evolve through the seasons. The 1.7-mile circular walking route is already well usedby runners, dog walkers and those simply taking time outside.
Green space at Welborne not only softens hard landscaping but connects it to neighbourhoods, supports daily routines and creates room to move. Habitats and wildlife corridors have been carefully restored and extended, supporting biodiversity across the site while making nature completely accessible to residents.
Daniel ch. 9
:3 ...I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with Him in prayer..
:5 We have sinned .. we have rebelled; we have turned away..
:7 Lord, You are righteous, but this day our faces are covered with shame
:9 the Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against Him..
Isaiah 45
:22 Look to Me..and be saved, all the earth: for I AM God, and there is no one else.
New Farm Road, Alresford, Hampshire Sunday Services 10.30am Wednesdays 7.30pm (prayer and bible study on zoom)
Tel: 07989 257707 (text or call) www.newfarmchapel.org.uk
From spring through to summer, the landscape becomes increasingly active, with insects, birds and native planting contributing to a setting that feels established rather than newly built.
Where Green Space Meets Timeless Living
Alongside the maturing landscape, the homes themselves are now ready to explore. CG Fry & Son, Pye Homes and Thakeham are each showcasing their approach to craftsmanship, material quality and long-term design.
The architecture is designed to sit comfortably within its setting, framed by tree-lined streets and walkable green routes rather than being dominated by tarmacked roads. Welborne is evolving steadily and deliberately. What you see today is the early stages of a place planned for the long term, so we warmly invite you to explore in person and discover the timeless design and charm of Welborne Garden Village.
Experience Welborne this Spring. Book your visit at welborne.co.uk or call us on 01329 623247
Forthcoming Events
Wessex Sculptors Workshops
Saturday 28 March
From 10am to 4pm
Unit C1A, The Black Shed Brockwood Barn, Bramdean, SO24 0LQ
Monochrome landscape in woodcut with Lisa Takahashi. Learn how to carve into a woodblock and make your own unique prints. £60 for Wessex sculptor members £80 for non-members. To book contact: Contact Anne Lain: 07785 715 985 anne.lain627@gmail.com
New Alresford WI Talk
Wednesday 1 April
From 7.30pm
St Gregory’s Church Hall, 1 Grange Rd, Alresford SO24 9HD
“Chalk Streams”- what’s so precious A talk by Helen Clarke. Helen invites you to get to know your local chalk streams. Learn about what we can do to live alongside these rare and precious habitats, with wonder and care.
Hampshire Garden Trust 2026 Study Day
Thursday 16 April
From 10.30am to 3.30pm
St.Peter’s Church Ropley, Alresford, SO24 0DS
Join the Hampshire Garden Trust 2026 Study Day as they “rediscover” the vast potential of plant chemicals, and confront the ethical implications for habitats and indigenous people. This event is a must-attend for anyone interested in the evolution of medicine, botany, and our ethical responsibility to the natural world.
Event Highlights:
• Expert Insight: A journey from medieval health handbooks to modern-day exploitation of ecosystems.
• Unique Venue: Held at the beautifully restored St Peter’s Church, Ropley.
• Networking: Connect over a buffet lunch (included in the ticket).
In anticipation of warmer weather we will perform Joanna Forbes L’Estrange’s wonderful new choral work, ‘A Season To Sing’. Written in 2025, this was co-commissioned by Alresford Community Choir, and celebrates the 300th anniversary of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons. We will also be singing works by Monteverdi, Mozart, Brahms, Fauré and many others. We’re delighted to be joined for this concert by the Clarendon Ensemble. Tickets will go on sale on Monday 2 March and can be bought at https:// www.ticketsource.co.uk/alresfordcommunity-choir If you are unable to book online, please call Sally Wesley on 01962 776476.
Guitar Gala Night Charity Concert
Friday 15 May
From 7.15pm (for 7.45pm)
Itchen Abbas & Avington Village Hall, Main Road, Itchen Abbas, SO21 1BQ
A concert in aid of Play2 Armenia (UK Charity 1206981) given by the Vida Guitar Quartet, Amanda Cook, Mark Ashford, and the Eden Stell Guitar Duo with a mix of popular classical works for solo, duo and guitar quartet. Tickets £20 including a complimentary drink. (car park available). Tickets available through ticket source or on the door on the night - https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/winchester-guitarfestival/guitar-gala-night-charityconcert/2026-05-15/19:45/t-zozrzgp
HOW MUCH IS YOUR PROPERTY REALLY WORTH
It is one of the most common questions property owners ask, whether they’re thinking of selling or letting: how much is my property worth? The answer is refreshingly straightforward; your property is worth what a buyer or tenant is prepared to pay.
Even on the same street, values and rental prices can vary dramatically. Easy access to transport links, local amenities, countryside or coast, along with overall demand and the wider economy, all play their part. For landlords, tenant expectations around space, finish and energy efficiency are increasingly influential too.
Online portal valuations have become a popular starting point for both sellers and landlords. However, these automated estimates are driven by algorithms and historic data. They do not take into account improvements you have made, the condition of the property, or the subtle lifestyle appeal of an area. They also fail to reflect shifts in demand, such as a surge in buyers or renters relocating, or changes in what tenants are prioritising right now. The result can be figures that are misleading, outdated or simply unrealistic.
This is where an experienced property professional makes all the difference. With their finger firmly on the pulse of the local market, they understand buyer and tenant behaviour, pricing trends and seasonal demand. They can advise not only on achievable sale prices or rental levels, but also on how to position your property to attract the right audience.
Whether you are selling or letting, an accurate valuation is the foundation of a successful move. For FREE confidential advice contact The Country House Company: 01962 571189 Kate
katep@countryhousecompany.co.uk
claudia@countryhousecompany.co.uk
Morton Management
kate@countryhousecompany.co.uk
Why all-girls education?
Compelling long-term research has shown an all-girls educational environment can improve performance, as well as encourage more girls to play sport for longer and to study STEM subjects. From the macro to the micro elements of the educational experience, an all-girls’ school has the specialist capability to tailor the journey towards the girl. So why are girls’ schools so important and do girls perform better in a single-sex environment?
Academic and future opportunities
Girls achieve more when given a dedicated space to do so. Academic results are better (The Guardian; GSA; BBC) and the environment is more likely to lead to girls choosing traditionally male-dominated subjects such as engineering, technology, science and maths (Good Schools Guide).
Compared with girls in co-ed schools, girls in girls’ schools are 2.7 times more likely to take further maths, and more than twice as likely to take physics and computer science A-levels (FFT Education Data Lab 2022). The UK government recognises there is a significant difference in the number of boys and girls who choose to study STEM subjects in school, and also that studying STEM A-levels can boost a young person’s earning potential when they leave education (UK Parliament Report 2022-2023).
An investigation into the effects of an allgirls’ education on the transition to university and on career aspirations showed interesting findings (Higher Education Research Institute 2018) and a positive
impact on performance and success in later life. Girls’ school graduates are more likely than their co-educated peers to be proactive with problem-solving and critical thinking, show a higher level of cultural competency and confidence in science, and are generally more academically engaged. Improving prospects is a priority on a girls’ schools’ agenda, from academic to physical and mental wellbeing and everything inbetween.
Pastoral
Girls in a single-sex environment show higher levels of self-esteem and confidence as they can be themselves when in an environment free from gender stereotyping. Considering the role of technology and pastoral care, the National Educations Union suggested a rise in sexism in schools because of harmful content on children’s
phones. However, an all-girls school has the opportunity to eliminate sexism, and at St Swithun’s we have also adopted Yondr pouches to avoid the distractions of smartphones during the school day.
Sports
It’s no secret that physical activity in girls declines in early adolescence, but research suggests it looks different if you’re at an all-girls school. The GSA with the Department of Education reported in 2024 that nationally, there is a 65% drop off in the time spent playing sport between KS4 and KS5, but in girls’ schools this is only 25%. We believe girls’ schools are more important than ever, providing as they do, a place in which girls find their voice, practise leadership and develop more mental toughness than their peers in co-ed schools.
St Swithun’s School, Winchester, SO21 1HA T: 01962 835750 www.stswithuns.com
For Year 7 2027 entry
Top tips for parents and a fun-packed taster programme for current year 5 girls. Discover the value of an all-girls education. To book your place please scan here: Saturday 16 May 2026, St Swithun’s School, 9.00am-12.00pm
WARNER AND RICHARDSON LLP ARE INDEPENDENT SOLICITORS LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC CITY OF WINCHESTER.
WE HAVE A STRONG, LONG STANDING REPUTATION FOR PERSONAL SERVICE AND HIGH QUALITY LEGAL ADVICE. FOR INFORMATION ON HOW WE CAN HELP YOU WITH ANY OF THESE MATTERS:-
• WILLS, PROBATE AND ESTATES
• RESIDENTIAL CONVEYANCING
• COMMERCIAL, AGRICULTURAL AND BUSINESS CONVEYANCING
PLEASE CONTACT US ON Visit our website:-
CHURCH CLERK WANTED FOR ST ANDREW’S CHURCH, TICHBORNE
We are looking for someone who is interested in helping with the day-to-day administration and upkeep of our small parish church. The Church Clerk would work in close coordination with members of Tichborne PCC, Parochial Church Council. The church has a limited number of services per year.
The part time position is not expected to involve on average more than 2-3 hours per week. It could be undertaken either voluntarily or for a modest, fixed sum per annum. It may suit someone who has an interest in playing a key role in the community. No prior experience of church administration is necessary.
If you would like to know more about the role please call or email:
Sarah McWhirter, tel: 078111 81634, email: sarah.mcwhirter@btinternet.com
Or Michele Hickman, tel : 07792 073615
Email: michelehickman@gmail.com
MR MAC - MARCH NEWS
Apple sells more than 230 million iPhones worldwide each year — a remarkable achievement for a device that has become central to modern life. What is less widely appreciated is how international each iPhone truly is. Its components are sourced from across the globe. Germany and Japan supply precision-engineered parts, Taiwan and South Korea produce advanced semiconductors, while specialist components are developed in Texas and Kentucky in the United States. China and India both play major roles in manufacturing and assembly. Although final assembly has traditionally taken place in China, Apple is increasingly shifting production to India, working with major partners such as Foxconn and the Tata Group as part of a broader supply chain strategy. Later this year we can expect the launch of the iPhone 18. It also coincides with a significant milestone: on 1 April, Apple celebrates its 50th anniversary. Rumours abound as to what products will be launched to celebrate the occasion.
Although I am often associated with Apple products, I also set up and install a substantial number of Windows PCs. In my experience, configuring a Windows machine properly takes noticeably longer than preparing a new Mac. There are additional updates to manage, and greater attention required to security settings. For that reason, I strongly recommend having your new Windows PC prepared by me. I will ensure it is fully updated, securely configured, free from unnecessary pre-installed software, delivering a clean, streamlined machine ready for reliable everyday use.
Andy – Mr Mac - Tel: 07392 552 592
As The Alresford Assistant I offer remote or in-person admin, PA, book-keeping, retail and other help to local businesses and households who need ongoing, one-off or ad-hoc support.
If there are too many things on your to do list, why not get in touch to see if you can put some of them on mine?
Contact Beccy on 07957 600587 or at thealresfordassistant@gmail.com www.thealresfordassistant.co.uk
552 592
On Your High Street
Enticing and eclectic items now available on your high street this Spring Stay local and support your diverse retailers!
D.Barker & Son
Silver Mirage Hoop earrings by Kit Heath - £155
Lambton Garden Necklace in Silver by Laura Ashley - £138.00 40A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 732200 | www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
The Naked Grape I can’t believe it’s not Burgundy! Fall in love with this glorious ripe and buttery Chardonnay. Now £5 off at £12.99 per bottle – 6 bottles for £72. Bergsig Barrel Fermented Chardonnay The Old Exchange, Station Rd, Alresford, SO24 9JG Tel: 01962 732002 | www.thenakedgrape.co.uk
Billy Goat
Lots of new Skechers just arrived! From £35 43 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 733926 | www.billygoatshoes.co.uk
The New Strawberry Collection from Kite Organics available now at Ragamuffin 2, Bakehouse Yard, West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 734488 | www.ragamuffin-uk.com
Aquamarine, Pink Sapphires & Diamonds
ALRESFORD & DISTRICT VOLUNTARY CARE GROUP (ADVCG) IS LOOKING FOR A VOLUNTEER
Alresford & District Voluntary Care Group (ADVCG) is looking for a volunteer to join the Co-ordinator Team - these are the volunteers who answer the central telephone line which people ring when they need help with transport to their medical appointments; the line is diverted to the landline or mobile of the duty Co-ordinator, so it can all be done from home.
Co-ordinators carry out a week manning the telephone line on a rota basis, once every seven weeks or so. Details of requested journeys are recorded on our web-based computer system, and the Co-ordinator then allocates the journey to one of our pool of approximately seventy volunteer drivers.
40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
D. Barker & Son Ltd
D. Barker & Son Ltd
40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
Co-ordinators carry out a very important and rewarding role for ADVCG, as they are the ‘bridge’ between members of the public who need assistance, and our volunteer drivers; so if you can spare some time, please contact us at: alresfordvolcare@gmail.com or call David Cooper, Chairman on 07766 406704 Email: michelehickman@gmail.com
TASTING EVENTS FOR YOUR DIARY
Easter Wine Tastings
Sunshine, Spring and wine!
Our first large tasting of the year is not to be missed.
ALRESFORD
Saturday 4th April 1pm to 5pm
THE GOODS SHED, THE WATERCRESS LINE, SO24 9JG
FOUR MARKS
Saturday 11th April 1pm to 5pm
THE NAKED GRAPE FOUR MARKS, GU34 5HQ
2026 Tasting Diary Dates
Check out Social Media feeds on FB and Insta for our weekend drop in tastings across our shops. @tngwine
ALRESFORD
Saturday 28th November 1pm to 5pm
THE GOODS SHED, THE WATERCRESS LINE, SO24 9JG
FOUR MARKS
Saturday 5th December 1pm to 5pm
THE NAKED GRAPE FOUR MARKS, GU34 5HQ
Butser Ancient Farm
The story of Butser Ancient Farm began with a decision in 1970 by the Council for British Archaeology to establish a working ‘ancient farm’ where archaeologists could experiment to test their theories on how people lived in Iron Age times. Work started on a trial site known as Little Butser in 1972, with the first public Open Day in 1974. The project was run by Dr Peter J Reynolds, a pioneer in the field of experimental archaeology.
Due to public interest the site soon moved and expanded, first to the nearby Valley of Hillhampton Down in 1976, and then to its current location at Bascomb Copse in 1991. A vital role was played in the following years by Christine Shaw, who handed the baton on to the new management team in April 2007.
The farm is now run as Butser Education Community Interest Company (CIC), a not-for-profit company directed by Simon Jay. The farm is a world-renowned hub for archaeological research, carrying out pioneering experiments to understand how the people of ancient Britain lived. The site is also visited by over 35,000 schoolchildren a year who come for a fun and unique day out to learn about traditional skills, archaeology and Britain’s prehistory.
Open to the public throughout the year and with increasing visitor numbers, the farm is developing into one of the top attractions in the country for lovers of history, wildlife, archaeology, animals, architecture and rural life.
The buildings at the farm are all based on evidence from archaeological excavations, and we test theories about the technologies, building techniques and ways of life of ancient people by reconstructing elements of their homes and lives. This helps us to better understand, educate about and learn from the past. We welcome the public and educational groups to the farm year round, with special events and workshops connecting people to our ancient past in a hands on and fun way.
We have ambitious plans for the future and the farm is ever changing, welcoming archaeologists, academics and students to join us to test theories about ancient life. We are also excited to continue our role in championing ancient skills and knowledge
in future debates around sustainability and our impact on the planet. If you would like to support the work of the farm you can find out more and donate by visiting: https:// www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/support-us
Events & Workshops
Celebrate the season or learn something old with our series of unique events and workshops, each drawing on the natural rhythms and folk traditions honoured by ancient communities. For information on forthcoming events and to book tickets visit: www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/whats-on/ calendar
Butser Ancient Farm, Waterlooville, Hampshire, PO8 0BG Tel: 02392 598838
We, Saddle House Beauty Ltd, hereby give notice that we have applied on 10 February 2026 to Winchester City Council as the Licensing Authority for the Grant of a Premises Licence New for the premises known as: Saddle House Beauty, Western Court, Bishops Sutton Road, Bishops Sutton, Alresford, SO24 0AA
The purpose of the application is to provide licensable activities as detailed below:-
Supply of Alcohol*
*For Consumption on the premises
Monday 1000 to 1800
Tuesday to Friday 1000 to 2000
Saturday 1000 to 1800
Any person who wishes to submit representations in connection with this application should send their representations in writing to: Licensing Manager, Winchester City Council, City Offices, Colebrook Street, Winchester SO23 9LJ, to arrive by 10 March 2026 details of representations received will be forwarded to the applicants to enable them to comment. The representations received and the applicants’ comments will be taken into account in determining the application. Relevant representations will be forwarded to the applicant and published on the Council’s website.
It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application and that person is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding Level 5 on the Standard Scale.
A Register of Applications can be inspected at the City Offices and details are also available at www.winchester.gov.uk/licensing Enquiries: 01962 848188, email: licensing@winchester.gov.uk
THE CURTIS MUSEUM - ALTON
Upcoming events for March at the Curtis Museum
Object of the Month: While the Allen Gallery is closed for refurbishment, the Curtis Museum will showcase each month a highlight from the ceramics collection in the Hampshire Cultural Trust stores. Throughout March, the Museum will display a coronation mug designed by Dame Laura Knight. The artist also painted key scenes recording moments from early 20th century life, such as women workers during WW2.
In celebration of International Women’s Day (Sunday 8th March), there will be a trail through the Museum - Women in Art & History - find the hidden heroines of Alton and Hampshire’s history and discover their connections with the Curtis Museum & Allen Gallery collections. This trail will be running throughout March, Women’s History Month.
Natural History in the Curtis Museum
Do you know the difference between a stoat and a weasel? Which owl is shown to the left?
Visitors (not only the younger ones) are often interested in the Museum’s extensive collection of local flora and fauna. They will now be able to identify the creatures on display more easily. A small team of volunteers and staff have prepared illustrated guides for each case. These
•
•
• One off spring cleans
“keys” hang beside the cases. Although some items are obviously old, taxidermy having largely gone out of fashion, appropriate labelling/ identification was long overdue. We are grateful to various specialists in their field and assistance from Alton Natural History Society. (PS it’s a long-eared owl, and the stoat is larger than the weasel and has a black tail-tip. Come and see.)
The Friends of the Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery have a full programme of talks during 2026. Friends talks will be held in Room 7 of the Alton Community Centre, Amery Street, Alton GU34 1HN. Alton Community Centre is located on one side of the car
park in Amery Street (sat nav GU34 1HN). https://www.altoncomcen. org.uk, telephone number 01420 85057.
The March talk will be given by Tim Craven on 12 March 2026, local representative of BAFM - the British Association of Friends of Museums. It is entitled Capture the Castle - The Story of Castles through Artist’ Eyes. Doors open 7pm for 7.30. FREE, donations welcomed.
For more information on the Curtis Musuem or to find out more about Hampshire Cultural Trust visit: www.hampshireculture.org.uk
Black pudding hash with egg and Sriracha sauce
This hearty recipe is from the team at Meadowbrook Produce, a smallholding in the New Forest which produces eggs, lamb, pork and occasionally beef.
INGREDIENTS
∙ 2 x pieces finger-width cut
∙ Meadowbrook black pudding
∙ Sriracha sauce
∙ 1 x hash brown
∙ Hollandaise sauce
∙ ½ bunch whole leaf kale, shallow fried
∙ Micro leaf salad
∙ Sweet smoked paprika
∙ 1 egg
METHOD
Cook your hash brown. When it’s nearly ready, cook and assemble the rest of the dish. Heat a dash of olive oil in a small frying pan and then place the black pudding into the oil and cook for around three minutes on each side until a crust has developed. Then place in the oven for 10 minutes and fry the kale.
Bring a medium pan of water to the boil and add a generous dash of white wine vinegar, then reduce to a simmer. Using a whisk, create a whirlpool and gently crack your egg into the water and leave simmering for 3½ mins. Meanwhile gently warm the Hollandaise sauce in a small saucepan and take your plate and dress with Sriracha sauce around the edge.
Take your egg from the water and place on a kitchen napkin to drain. Place the kale on the plate, then your hash brown, then your egg on the hash brown, and drizzle with the Hollandaise. Then add a generous pinch of sweet smoked paprika to cut through the Hollandaise. Top with the cooked black pudding, slightly overlapping one another. Finish with a pinch of mixed micro leaf salad and enjoy!
DON S GARAGE DOORS
NO MORE DELAY. LET’S STOP THE DAMAGE TO OUR RIVERS
This month I’ve been focusing on my work with local campaigners to protect our precious countryside and nature. You might have seen the news stories about the communities in the Meon Valley coming together to demand action from Hampshire County Council to stop 4x4s and off-road vehicles driving down stretches of the Meon river for fun, destroying wildlife and the river ecosystem in the process.
Despite the Council’s own 2023 report stating that vehicles were damaging the ecosystem and recommending access be closed off, nothing has been done for more than two years. That’s why I joined the protest along the river to demand the Council stops making excuses for its delays and puts an end to this needless environmental destruction.
Over on the Itchen river, thankfully there are no problems with 4x4s, but it’s still being affected by sewage dumping. Earlier this month I joined the Upper Itchen Restoration Company who have long been working to protect the river. It was great to meet Tim and the rest of the team to help out with invertebrate sampling and find out how they monitor the river’s health.
Southern Water recently announced what we had long suspectedbills are going up again from April, this year by an average of 8% per household, an extra £56 per year. All these extra costs, and yet they have failed to clean up their act and stop sewage dumping in our rivers. So far, the government has barely lifted a finger to sort the mess out. We need them to take decisive action, replace Ofwat, and transform these companies into Public Benefit Companies, forcing them to address the ecological damage they’re causing. I’ll keep on speaking out on this vital issue until we get the change we urgently need.
In Parliament, I’ve been continuing my campaign for stronger regulation of AI Chatbots. Many are designed to act like friends, therapists or even doctors, yet they are almost enitrely unregulated and can give harmful mental health advice, expose users to explicit, pro-suicide or pro-eating disorder content, and blur the line between human and machine.
Children are especially at risk. When chatbots replace real interaction, it can affect the user’s confidence, emotional development and social skills. Some children are losing their creativity too. It’s deeply troubling to me that some children are turning to chatbots to write stories for them because they think AI can do it better. AI Chatbots provide countless opportunities, but also countless risks and I don’t want to see children becoming so dependent on AI that it leads to difficulties as they grow and develop. That’s why I’m calling for urgent action to help protect young people using these platforms.
If there is anything I can help you with, please get in touch at: danny.chambers.mp@parliament.uk
JACKIE'S COUNTY CORNER
Many people suggest that Alresford should have a 20mph limit, but in reality, the daytime speeds in the town are often lower.
A car moving at 30mph takes total 23 metres to stop: nearly double the braking distance for 20mph.
Margot, Jonathan and I are still hoping to extend the 30mph limit between Bishop’s Sutton and Alresford but at present, the likelihood for the promised path upgrade to be completed and speed limits changed by the end of this financial year is diminishing.
Why are there three of us in this photo? Because councillors from Hampshire County Council and Winchester City Council cover different geographic areas as well as different roles. Inevitably, the wards we represent fit together like a jigsaw, but projects overlap the edges - so we get used to working together to link services so that they work for you.
But from ‘Vesting Day’ in Spring 2028, there will be one Unitary Council for this area covering all of the roles fulfilled by both Winchester and Hampshire. So there will be fewer councillors - but each one will have a lot more to cover!
As you can imagine, the change process is complicated, but the plan is for a number of Unitary Councils covering Southampton, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and Portsmouth - appropriately the SHIP authorities, all overseen by a newly elected Mayor of these Authorities combined.
The last time that the Local Government structure changed was in 1974. Then, the world happened more slowly, and there were far fewer processes. As I write this, the staff at all councils are preparing the way for this major change. In other parts of the country, this has taken several years to complete, and may well do so here too. As you know from my previous articles, the County has a budget deficit, which will have to be absorbed by the Unitaries. This period is uncertain for many employees, and I’d like to thank you if you are indeed, part of a team in any SHIP council at present or in the past.
Children will still need education, sports facilities, special education and social care. Adults of all ages will need homes, care, public health support, and transport.
Even with AI, the job of looking after people will never disappear - and nor will potholes! And please let us know if you are content - or notwith speeds near your home.
Jackie Porter 07973 696 085 jackie.porter@hants.gov.uk (use Facebook, but not X)
(Danny Chambers speaking at a protest in Droxford to stop offroad vehicles damaging the River Meon)
Your Local Roofing Experts
A Class Roofing and Construction Ltd (A Class Roofing) is an established roofing and construction business. We have been established, well known and well credited business and between us have more than 100+ years of roofing experience.
We are a fully licenced and insured roofing business and perform our work with pride, safety and professionalism. We appreciate how important your home or business is to you and therefore we ensure our work is given the same care and attention as we would complete if we were performing on our own property.
We pride ourselves with our customer service, health and safety knowledge, and our attention to detail. We will always try to ensure that any work is a "stress-free" project from start to finish for our clients.
Please do contact us if you wish to discuss any roofing needs further or have a query in mind. We are always more than happy to help.
New Alresford Town Council
This is Pete. He and his wife, Gill, are some of the regular voluntary litter pickers that help keep Alresford and the surrounding paths clear of litter. They litter pick four or five times a week, all year round, telling us that “Litter picking gives our walks a purpose. We’ve reunited many people with
property, from wallets to jewellery and even a wedding ring!”
We’re grateful to everyone who does this and we are encouraging you to join with your neighbours to clean up a street or path near where you live for our Annual Community Litter Pick. Members of Alresford Rotary will be cleaning up Broad Street, together with students from Perins.
Please encourage your family and neighbours to join in too. It’s a great way to meet neighbours or catch up with those you haven’t seen over the winter. You can collect pickers, gloves and bags from the council offices any day except Friday - or come and see us at Arlebury Park on Saturday 7 March between 9 and 11.00am.
We’re looking forward to seeing you and would like to invite everyone who joins in for a hot or cold drink afterwards at the Arlebury Cafe, compliments of the town council.
Community Grants Available
Did you know that New Alresford Town Council sets aside part of its annual budget to help local charities, voluntary groups, and other not-forprofit organisations? These community grants are designed to support projects and activities that bring a clear benefit to the town and its residents.
Groups can apply for grants of between £100 and £1,000, with preference given to funding specific projects or events rather than day-to-day running costs. In exceptional circumstances, applications above £1,000 may be considered. Applications are reviewed quarterly, and every decision, whether approved or not, is recorded openly in the Council’s meeting minutes. If you have a project that could benefit the local community, you can find the application form and full details on the Town Council’s website: www.newalresford-tc.gov. uk This is a chance to turn your ideas into action and make a real difference in New Alresford, so if your group has a project in mind, we’d love to hear from you.
March Calendar
Please see this month’s Calendar of events and meetings. You are very welcome to attend all meetings with an opportunity at the start of the meeting to share any thoughts or ideas. Meetings are held in the ground floor meeting room at Alresford Recreation Centre.
Please don’t hesitate to contact our Town Clerk Richard Doughty: townclerk@newalresford-tc. gov.uk
Planning Committee Meeting
Tuesday 3 March from 7pm to 9pm
Full Town Council Meeting Tuesday 24 March from 7pm to 9pm
www.newalresford-tc.gov.uk Phone: 01962 732079
lost
King Alfred’s Cakesa curious woodland find with a royal Hampshire link
If you enjoy winter walks through the woods, keep an eye on fallen trees and logs – you might spot something that looks like a pile of burnt charcoal buns. These are King Alfred’s Cakes, one of our most amusingly named fungi.
Despite the name, this fungus isn’t edible. Known to scientists as Daldinia concentrica, King Alfred’s Cakes grow as hard, round balls rather than the classic “mushroom” shape. They have no cap, stem or gills, just shiny black lumps ranging from about the size of a marble to a small orange. When young they can look reddish-brown, but as they age they turn jet black and brittle. When the fungus is seen broken open, it reveals beautiful rings inside, rather like tree rings.
You can find King Alfred’s Cakes for much of the year, especially in autumn and winter. They grow on dead or dying wood, most commonly ash and beech, so woodland is the best place to search. Ancient woods and hedgerows make it a perfect county for spotting them, particularly after storms when fallen branches are plentiful.
The link to King Alfred the Great is what really captures the imagination – and it’s a story rooted firmly in southern England. Alfred, who ruled Wessex in the 9th Century, is closely associated with Hampshire and Winchester, his former capital. Legend says that while hiding from Viking invaders, Alfred took shelter in a peasant woman’s home. She asked him to watch her cakes baking, but he became distracted and let them burn. Ashamed, he supposedly scattered the burnt cakes in the nearby woodland. The black, cake-like
fungus was later said to mark the spot – and the name stuck. Whether true or not, it’s a wonderful tale that ties local history to the natural world right on our doorstep.
King Alfred’s Cakes have had other uses too. They burn very slowly, making them excellent natural firelighters, and were once carried to transport a flame. In nature, their real value is helping dead wood break down, returning nutrients to the soil and providing homes for insects.
So next time you’re out walking, take a closer look at fallen logs – they may be hiding a little piece of fungal folklore.
You can help protect the wildlife and countryside you love by joining Hampshire & Isle of Wight Trust. If local wildlife is important to you, then become a member of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust today, and you can give nature a wilder future. Visit: www.hiwwt. org.uk/join-today for more information.
Volunteering Opportunities
Due to our Safeguarding policy unfortunately we cannot recruit volunteers under the age of 18. However, if you are under 18 and would like to get involved, you can find various wildlife groups and activities on our website: www.hiwwt. org.uk/young-people If you are able to volunteer then please visit: www.hiwwt.org. uk/volunteering-opportunities
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Winchester City Councillors' Report March 2026
Recycling Survey
Winchester City Council is preparing for future changes in recycling and has released a survey asking for residents’ views. The short survey will help the council understand residents’ current knowledge about recycling and how much more they are likely to recycle in the future, when more options are available.
Going greener faster is a priority for this council, and we want to make sure residents are able to recycle as much as possible. We are keen to hear from people living in all types of accommodation, including flats and shared housing, as
well as from residents of all ages over 18. Your views will help us understand both the opportunities and the challenges of expanding recycling.
Residents can complete the survey at www.winchester.gov. uk/recycling-future to provide their feedback on recycling across the Winchester district. The survey is available until midnight on Sunday 8 March.
Food Waste Recycling
The roll out of the food waste collection will be complete by the end of March. The Alresford and Itchen Valley ward should have all received theirs. If your caddy and bin hasn’t turned up,
please contact your councillors. For those that have had them for some time, don’t forget to buy new compostable bags for the kitchen caddy.
The Food Waste Process
Your food waste is sent to an Anaerobic Digestion (AD) facility. AD is a natural process where plant and animal materials (biomass) are broken down by micro-organisms in the absence of air. The AD process begins when biomass is put inside a sealed tank or digester.
This produces a mixture of methane and carbon dioxide, known as biogas, which is then upgraded for use as a source of heat, electricity, or transport fuel. The remaining material from the digestion process (digestate) is rich in nutrients, so it can be used as a fertiliser by local farmers. Infinitely preferable to the options of burning in an incinerator or burying in a landfill.
Budget Development for 2026 to 2027
The Cabinet are developing a budget for the next financial year, which will be submitted for
approval at the Full Council on February 26th.
Forecast deficits after 2027 are largely due to the impact of the Government’s funding settlement ‘Fair Funding 2.0’ which included their longpromised reset of business rates. The district benefitted from strong business growth over the last decade and we were able to retain a good proportion of business rates locally. The reset will see much of that allocated elsewhere.
Thanks to prudent financial management since 2019 we will be able to cover that from contingency reserves. A welcome contrast to the financial chaos of many local authorities.
What does this mean for the council tax payer? If the budget recommendations are accepted on February 26th, the level of Council Tax at Band D for City Council services for 2026/27 be increased to £168.49, an increase of £4.83 reflecting an average Council tax increase of 2.95%.
Photo Credit Marienne Majrerus
HELPING AND SUPPORTING YOUTH IN THE COMMUNITY!
In December Alresford Rotary was delighted to learn that Perins Year 11 students had expressed a wish to be involved in community-based activities to enable them to give something to the local community while, at the same time, developing a sense of responsibility, teamwork and civic pride. Keep your eyes open! We anticipate Perins Students and Alresford Rotary will be working together for the benefit of the community in the coming months starting with the New Alresford Town Council litter pick on 7 March.
Weather permitting, Alresford Rotary will from 8am on Sunday 8 March be undertaking what has become an annual “spruce up” of Broad Street particularly clearing up the mud, rubbish and other detritus that accumulates along the kerbs and drains. Please join us! We are grateful to New Alresford Town Council for providing an appropriate bag in which to collect the “rubbish”.
Alresford Rotary wishes to develop its presence in local villages and to support local schools and their students. We were delighted to be involved in December’s Christmas Tree Festival at St Peter’s Ropley and in January to receive thanks and photos relating to the new Early Years space created at Cheriton Primary School, funded by a donation from Alresford Rotary.
In mid-March Alresford Rotary will be creating an outdoors educational and recreational space at Perins School. This will be a facility for students who have diagnosed social, emotional and mental health needs and/or who might otherwise struggle to access learning. Later in the Spring we plan to improve and develop the outdoor area at Perins pre-school (adjacent to Sun Hill Junior school). That will include erecting a playhouse, clearing a bramble patch, relocating and refurbishing a small tool shed, preparing the ground for some fruit trees, dismantling an old large storage shed and erecting a replacement.
Alresford Rotarians are “People of Action”. Please contact us if you would like to be involved on a regular or occasional basis. We normally meet at The Swan in Alresford on the first and third Monday evening of the month. Why not come along one evening? You’ll receive a warm welcome. To help planning we ask that (ideally) you contact us on or before the preceding Friday. Alresford Rotary considers its patch to include not only New Alresford but also the surrounding villages. Help us to improve our gender imbalance and presence in the villages. Ticking those boxes our newest member lives in Cheriton and is female!
Our next social and fundraising event is “Probably Mid-Hampshire’s Quiz of the Year” 2026 at Itchen Abbas village hall on 27 March. As of mid-February only 3 tables remained. If interested and to ascertain any remaining availability please email wjrp@hotmail.co.uk
James Pinniger - email:rotaryalresford@gmail.com Phone: 079737 47305 | www.alresford-rotary.org
ALRESFORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Member of the month
Imagine a car business which for over 20 years has relied entirely on recommendations and repeat business – and never needs to advertise. Welcome to IVC. Just think what it would mean to have somebody totally impartial who can supply you with the second-hand or new vehicle you really need – but is totally free from the stranglehold of any big manufacturer. That’s IVC! Put all that unique combination alongside a comprehensive service in providing cars or commercial vehicles anywhere in the UK, along with finance and part exchange facilities. It all adds up to a different kind of experience. It’s one you’ll want to repeat. IVC…not what you might expect! IVC started in business in 1987, over the years acquiring a reputation for excellent service and quality products, almost entirely because of customer referral and repeat business. We like to think we take the uncertainty out of buying a new or used car which is probably borne out by our biggest client group being solicitors!
We are based in Alresford, Hampshire but supply cars on both a local and national basis. If you are thinking of buying a new or used car of any type, age or price range and if you are after a superlative service, why not give us a call on 01962 733097. Belmont House, The Dean, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9BQ, sales@ivcuk.co
Alresford
Easter Egg Hunt - 28 March – 12 April
The Easter Chicks and Bunnies have been busy organising our beloved Easter Egg Hunt and will be delivering the eggs to the relevant shops all in time for the start date of Saturday 28 April running right through to Sunday 12 April. Pick up a Leaflet in Billy Goat Children’s Shoe Shop and downloadable from our website as well as being available from local schools. Have fun!! To be entered into the Grand Prize Draw, you must complete the Egg Hunt, fill out the leaflet, and hand in your completed sheet to Billy Goat Children’s Shoe Shop. Don’t forget to collect your Easter Treat when you hand in your form. Our thanks go out to New Alresford Town Council for their continued support of this project.
People & Places Survey 2026
The Chamber, with the support of NATC & WCC, has arranged for a People and Places Town Survey to be carried out. The last survey was carried out 10 years ago; and having a new survey carried out now will give us a huge amount of information that can be used to help inform decisions about the future direction of the High Street in our town. We are especially keen to gain information on visitor footfall and how businesses have changed within the town over the last decade. We therefore ask for your help; if you should be stopped by one of the survey teams, it would be great if you could spare a little time to assist them. The information will allow us to ascertain the best Marketing tools required to promote New Alresford in the best possible way to help keep our beautiful Town thriving. Our thanks go to Alresford Town Council, Alresford Trust, Winchester City Council & New Leaf Alresford for their help in funding this project!
To join the chamber, visit www.alresfordchamber.co.uk and download the application form or email info@alresdordchamber.co.uk
Follow us on Facebook @AlresfordChamberofCommerce AlresfordCofC / info@alresfordchamber.co.uk / www.alresfordchamber.co.uk
A NIGHT AT THE OPERA WITH GUEST CONDUCTOR RORY MACDONALD
Southampton Philharmonic Choir and Southampton University Philharmonic Choir join forces this March for A Night at the Opera, an evening of great operatic choruses and arias performed with London-based Docklands Sinfonia under guest conductor Rory Macdonald — a musician widely recognised for his work in the opera house and on the international concert platform.
The choirs are thrilled to be working with Macdonald, whose career spans leading orchestras and opera companies across Europe, North America and Asia. A regular guest with major UK orchestras, he opened last year’s Glyndebourne Festival and has conducted for companies including San Francisco Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago and Oper Frankfurt. Known for his theatrical instinct and clarity of musical direction, he brings deep operatic experience to both rehearsal room and concert platform.
The programme draws together some of opera’s most memorable moments, opening with the Toreadors’ music from Carmen and including major choral scenes such as the Bell Chorus from Pagliacci, the Easter Hymn from Cavalleria rusticana, and the Procession and Chorale from Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg. With 2026 marking 125 years since Verdi’s death, the concert also features the Triumphal March from Aida, the Brindisi from La traviata, and “Va, pensiero” from Nabucco.
Solo highlights come from soprano Anita Watson and tenor Jay Broadhurst, with arias including O mio babbino caro, Song to the Moon, Lensky’s aria from Eugene Onegin, Una furtiva lagrima and Nessun dorma.
Saturday, 14 March, 7pm at O2 Guildhall, Southampton Doors open at 6pm for the 7pm concert. Tickets are available from the O2 Guildhall Southampton box office and online, with concessions available.
Have you downloaded the NHS App yet? Did you know you can now book a range of appointments with us, directly through the app.
Pharmacy First – Prescription-only medicines without seeing a GP
Pharmacy First will enable community pharmacists to supply prescription-only medicines, including antibiotics and antivirals where clinically appropriate, to treat seven common health conditions without the need to visit a GP.
The 7 conditions are:
• Sinusitis
• Sore throat
• Earache (Children)
• Infected insect bite
• Impetigo (a bacterial skin infection)
• Shingles
• Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.
For further information, see: https://www.england.nhs. uk/2024/01/over-10000-nhs-pharmacies-begin-treating-peoplefor-common-conditions/
Afternoon Closure – Thursday 12 March
The surgery and dispensary will be closed from 12.30pm to enable all GPs and Nurses to attend a compulsory training meeting this afternoon. Our phone lines will not be open on this afternoon. If you require urgent medical attention, please call 111.
Spotlight on our Pharmacy team
What does our Pharmacy team do?
The Pharmacy team are essential members of our healthcare team and make a difference to the lives of our patients through their expert knowledge of medicines and health.
The team includes 1 clinical pharmacist and 1 pharmacy technician.
The responsibility of the roles range from prescription queries and long-term condition management to medication safety monitoring,
prescription adjustments and quality improvement activities.
Core Responsibilities include:
• Reviewing medications for long term conditions such as Asthma and Atrial Fibrillation
• Cardiovascular disease Care
• Medication safety:
- Ensuring necessary monitoring is up to date
- Ensuring medication changes after reviews by specialists are reconciled
- Reviewing shared care policies with other providers such as hospitals
• Help and advice on alternative medications and liaising with community pharmacies
Please note: reviews allocated with a member of the pharmacy team are done so because that is the person best able to provide the care needed at that point in time.
Bank holiday closures
The surgery will be closed on Friday 3 April and Monday 6 April. 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 and the number to call is 111.
e-Consults will not be able to be submitted after 6.30pm on Thursday 2 April and will not restart again until 8am on Tuesday 7 April.
May we take this opportunity to wish all our patients a very Happy Easter.
The Alresford Surgery, Station Road, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9JL - Telephone: 01962 732345 www.alresfordsurgery.co.uk
Skin
IPL
Thread
Beauty
Facials
The
Pain
Radiofrequency
Viscoderm
Wrinkle
Profhilo
Profhilo Structura
Vitaman B12 Injections
Chemical Peels
Polynucleotides
Fat
Pelvic Health & Bladder Weakness
Face and Body Packages
SADDLE HOUSE BEAUTY
New Opening Announcement
Introducing Saddle House Beauty
We are delighted to introduce Saddle House Beauty — a new destination where modern beauty meets wellbeing.
Situated next door to our Sister Saddle House Medi-Spa, Saddle House Beauty offers all of your beauty essentials and also acupuncture and wellness-focused therapies, supporting both physical balance and emotional wellbeing. Our approach brings together expert treatments and a tranquil environment designed to help you truly switch off.
Clients are invited to relax in our beautiful garden overlooking the lakes and surrounding wildlife, creating a peaceful retreat before or after treatments.
Beauty essentials, massage & skin treatments
Acupuncture & holistic wellbeing
Garden setting with lake views
Set within a private, discreet location with on-site parking, Saddle House Medi Spa offers a calm, professional environment where clients can relax and focus on their treatment journey.
When is it time to upgrade your Hearing Aids?
For the millions of people who rely on hearing aids to stay connected with the world around them, these small devices play an enormous role in daily life. But like all technology, hearing aids don’t last forever. Knowing when it’s time to upgrade can make the difference between struggling to hear and enjoying clear, effortless communication.
How long should hearing aids last?
Most hearing aids are designed to last between 4 and 6 years with proper care and maintenance. However, this timeframe can vary depending on several factors, including how often you wear them, the environment they’re exposed to, and how well they’re maintained. Some people find their devices still function adequately after six years, whilst others may need to upgrade sooner.
It’s worth noting that even if your hearing aids are still working, they may not be working optimally. Technology advances rapidly in the hearing aid industry, and what was state-ofthe-art a few years ago may now seem dated compared to today’s capabilities.
Signs it may be time to upgrade
Several indicators suggest it might be time for new hearing aids. If you find yourself constantly adjusting the volume or asking people to repeat themselves more than you used to, your current devices may no longer be meeting your needs. Perhaps your hearing has changed since you were last fitted, or the technology simply isn’t keeping pace with your lifestyle.
Physical wear and tear is another telltale sign. If your hearing aids require frequent repairs, if the battery drains much faster than it once did, or if they no longer fit comfortably in your ears, these are all legitimate reasons to consider an upgrade. Sometimes the cost of ongoing repairs can actually exceed the investment in new technology.
Many people also find that their lifestyle has changed since they first got their hearing aids. If you’re now more active, spending more time in
noisy environments, or engaging in activities that require better hearing in challenging situations, your four or five-year-old devices might be holding you back.
The
benefits of modern technology
If your hearing aids are four years old or more, you’re likely missing out on significant technological advances. Today’s hearing aids offer features that would have seemed like science fiction just a few years ago.
Modern devices provide exceptional sound quality with sophisticated processing that automatically adjusts to different environments. Whether you’re in a quiet room, a busy restaurant, or outdoors in the wind, newer hearing aids can adapt in real-time to ensure optimal hearing.
Connectivity has also revolutionised the hearing aid experience. Many current models can connect wirelessly to smartphones, televisions, and other devices, streaming sound directly into your ears. This means you can take phone calls, listen to music, or watch television with crystal-clear audio without disturbing others or struggling with volume levels.
Perhaps most importantly, advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning mean that today’s hearing aids can learn your preferences and environments, becoming more personalised to your specific needs over time. They can distinguish between speech and background
noise with remarkable accuracy, making conversations in difficult listening situations significantly easier.
Making the decision
The decision to upgrade your hearing aids is a personal one and depends on your individual circumstances. However, if your devices are approaching or beyond the four-year mark, it’s certainly worth having a conversation about what’s available. Even if they’re still functioning, the improvements in technology could significantly enhance your quality of life.
Consider what you’re missing with your current hearing aids. Are there situations where you avoid socialising because you know you’ll struggle to hear? Do you find yourself exhausted at the end of the day from the effort of trying to listen.
Good hearing is fundamental to staying engaged with life, maintaining relationships, and enjoying the world around you. It’s not about having the latest gadget - it’s about having the tools you need to live your life fully.
Taking the next step
If you feel it’s time to explore new hearing aids, it’s important to work with a professional who can properly assess your hearing and guide you through the options available. Independent hearing care providers often offer a more personalised service, taking the time to understand your specific needs and lifestyle. For local residents, Alresford Hearing Studio provides expert, independent hearing care with a focus on finding the right solution for each individual. Whether you’re considering an upgrade or simply want to explore what’s available, a conversation with a HCPC Registered Audiologist is the first step towards better hearing and a more connected life. Your hearing is too important to compromise on. If your hearing aids are four years old or more, now might be the perfect time to discover what modern technology can do for you.
Alresford Hearing Studio 42 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 790749 alresfordhearingstudio.co.uk
Fall Back in Love With Your Skin
February is all about love, and that includes the relationship you have with your skin. At Face and Skin Clinic Wickham, we believe feeling confident in your skin can change the way you carry yourself every day. Whether it’s addressing long-standing concerns or simply giving your skin a little extra attention, thoughtful care can help you feel refreshed and renewed. This Valentine’s season, consider self-care the ultimate act of self-love.
Hydrafacial
Skin Tag Removal
IPL Treatments
Thread Vein Removal
Medical Grade Facials
Laser Hair Removal
Dermal Fillers
Wrinkle Treatment
Profhilo
Profhilo Structura
Viscoderm Hydrabooster
Regenerative Medicine
Medical Microneedling
Purasomes (Exosomes) Y es, Y o u SH OU
F eel G oo d (About Your Vagina)
Ultra Femme 360 is the painless radio frequency treatment that promotes the body’s own natural collagen production to restore and tighten the vaginal area
From puberty to menopause, the vaginal area undergoes natural changes and ageing. Many women experience concerns such as laxity, stress incontinence, or reduced tissue quality. Ultra Femme 360 offers total vaginal rejuvenation in a quick, painless 8-minute treatment.*
What is Ultra Femme 360?
Because confidence is the best Valentine’s gift Before After
Ultra Femme 360 uses radiofrequency to stimulate collagen, tighten vaginal tissue, and enhance blood flow — all without surgery
Polynucleotides
The Perfect Peel
Face and Body Packages
Aqualyx
Chemical Peels
Fat Reduction and Toning
Pelvic Health & Bladder Weakness
Who can benefit from Ultra Femme 360? Does the treatment hurt?
Women experiencing post-childbirth or menopausal changes who want to restore comfort, tightness, and intimate confidence.
No — it’s completely painless and comfortable, takes just 8 minutes, and has no downtime. Weekly sessions for three weeks are recommended.
Yes, You SHOULD Feel Good (About Your Vagina)
Those of us who have issues down there know the impact our vagina can have on our quality of life. But we should ALL feel good about our vaginas.
Ultra Femme 360 is the painless radio frequency treatment that promotes the body’s own natural collagen production to restore and tighten the vaginal area.
From puberty, childbirth, menopause, and all the fun stuff in between, our vaginas go through a lot, and we rarely give them the care they need. Our vaginal area is just as prone to damage and ageing as the rest of our body. Distressing problems with vaginal laxity, stress incontinence or reduced tissue quality are all experienced by most women at some point in their life.
The Ultra Femme 360 treatment provides total vaginal rejuvenation in one quick and painless treatment that lasts just eight minutes*.
What is Ultra Femme 360?
Ultra Femme 360 is a non-surgical solution for restoring the internal and external vaginal area. As the applicator is guided in and around the vagina, the radio frequency activates our own body’s natural collagen and elastin production, which tightens the vaginal canal and surrounding skin. The low levels of heat from the treatment also encourages blood flow to the area, further boosting the effects.
Feel good…
Who can benefit from Ultra Femme 360?
This is a safe and gentle treatment that is suitable for most women. If you have experienced vaginal changes since childbirth or menopause or have functional issues including stress incontinence or reduced sexual enjoyment, Ultra Femme 360 can tighten, restore, and rejuvenate your vagina for increased confidence and personal wellbeing.
Does the treatment hurt?
We understand that this kind of treatment can feel daunting. However, we aim to make you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout the treatment, which is entirely painless and lasts only 8 minutes. There is no downtime, and you can return to your normal daily activities immediately afterwards. *Recommended one treatment per week for three weeks for the best results.
We are one of the first clinics in the country to offer this treatment and look forward to welcoming you at The Face & Skin Clinic.
Queen Eleanor’s Garden
Queen Eleanor’s garden is situated on the south side of the Medieval Great Hall of Winchester Castle.
The garden is named after Queen Eleanor of Provence, wife of Henry III and her daughter-in-law Queen Eleanor of Castile, wife of Edward I.
This south side of the Great Hall was originally the front of the Hall and the wall facing it is the base of the King’s House, never completed, built by Sir Christopher Wren. Little is known of Winchester Castle gardens apart from a mention of herbaria, columbaria and falcon houses so the garden has been created from descriptions of other royal residences of the thirteenth century.
Its creation was a joint venture between Hampshire County Council and Hampshire Gardens Trust and was designed by Dr Sylvia Landsberg with John Harvey as consultant and co-designer. It was opened by HM the Queen Mother on 8 July, 1986, as part of the Domesday 900 celebrations. It is the first example of an authentically constructed and planted medieval garden in Britain, so is of great educational value.
All the stonework in the garden is Purbeck limestone ashlar as used in the Castle. The seats are copied from the window-sill seats
in the Great Hall, the fountain is copied from the tomb of Peter de Sancta Mario, 1296, in St Cross Hospital, and old stone paving has been incorporated. The details of the lead pool, bronze leopard heads and falcon are developed from a description of a fountain at Charing Cross Mews, written in 1272. The falcon has details taken from the unique wooden falcon, carved about 1305, in Winchester Cathedral choir stalls. A tunnel arbour is made from curved tree poles, tied together, supporting vines, roses and honeysuckle.
The Queen’s Herber is a trellised corner with a floor of mixed wild flowers, turf seats and octagonal table. Queen Eleanor’s Coat of Arms is on the door arch. There is a wall turf seat as commonly seen in manuscripts of the time, and a bench made from 200 year old oak and adapted from a nine foot long gothic bench in Winchester Cathedral. The Pentice could have connected the kitchens to the Great Hall and its oak shingles show how the Hall would have been roofed. All the plants, mostly native, would have been grown in 13th century gardens.
Open: All year, daily 10am - 5pm except Christmas and Boxing Day and occasionally closed for civic events. There are guided tours available upon request. Group booking advised.
The nearest parking at Tower Street Car Park. Public Access check opening times of the Great Hall, Winchester Castle.
Hampshire Gardens Trust
Jermyns House, Jermyns Lane, Romsey SO51 0QA
T: 01794 367752
www.hgt.org.uk
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Hambrooks Garden Maintenance
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Book your driveway & garden tidy up - get ready for spring!
Yet again, the National Garden Scheme has beaten the 2024 total of £3.5 million by an additional £300,000, making a Grand Total Donated for 2025 of £3.85 million, to be distributed to Nursing, Caring and Health beneficiaries. This is all down to the generosity of our garden owners, our army of volunteers, and the general public for visiting our fabulous Open Gardens.
Our ‘big six’ beneficiaries are Carers Trust: Hospice UK: Macmillan Cancer Support: Marie Curie: Parkinson’s UK: Qinc: (Queens Institute of Community Nursing) If you would like to read more about the impact your money makes to our beneficiaries simply click on the link to read our Impact Report, which does just that - reports on the Impact your visits make to our beneficiaries. https://ngs.org.uk/app/uploads/2025/12/2025Impact-Report-pages.pdf
And so to some forthcoming Open Gardens, which you might like to visit during March and April.
Bere Mill
London Road, Whitchurch, RG28 7NH
Opening: Sunday 15 March 1pm to 5pm
Pre-booking available. Admission: £8.00 children free. Cashless Payments available. Refreshments: Tea and cakes in the West Barn. https://findagarden. ngs.org.uk/garden/ 19432/bere-mill
On an isolated stretch of the upper River Test the gardens have been built incrementally over 30 years with bulbs, herbaceous and Mediterranean borders, magnolia, irises, and tree peonies. There is a traditional orchard and two small arboretums, one specialising in Japanese planting. The garden stretches into the landscape and forms part of a renaturing project. The mill buildings were the original location of Portals who first sold bank
note paper to the Bank of England from the mill in 1724 and there are interesting industrial and agricultural archaeological remains, including reconstructed water meadow structures.
Also open by arrangement: From February to November for Groups of 20+ Coaches Welcome. Contact the owners to discuss your requirements. T:07703 161074 or rupertnab@gmail.com
Crawley Gardens
Crawley, Winchester, SO21 2PR
Opening: Sunday 20 and Monday 21 April from 1pm to 5pm.
Opening: Friday 3 and Monday 6 April (Easter Weekend) Pre-booking available. Combined
Admission: £8.00 children free. Cashless Payments available.
Refreshments: Home-made teas in Village Hall. (in aid of Village Hall Trust) - https://findagarden.ngs.org.uk/garden/17567/ Crawley%20Gardens
Crawley is a charming period village nestled in chalk downland, featuring thatched cottages, a C14 church, and a village pond.
The gardens offer seasonal interest with both traditional and contemporary approaches to landscape and planting. Little Court is a 3 acre country garden with beautiful country views, carpets of spring bulbs, herbaceous borders, and a large meadow. Paige Cottage (pictured above) is a 1 acre traditional English garden surrounding a period thatched cottage (not open), with bulbs, wild flowers, and old climbing roses.
Your visits help to make a difference to so many lives.
Pat Beagley (Head of Publicity)
National Garden Scheme - Hampshire pat.beagley@ngs.org.uk
Experience the Legendary Flying Scotsman at The Watercress Line from 10 - 21 March. This March, The Watercress Line in Hampshire welcomes the iconic locomotive Flying Scotsman, offering visitors a rare chance to enjoy a series of unforgettable experiences with one of Britain’s most celebrated steam engines. Flying Scotsman was built in 1923 by the LNER and named after the London to Edinburgh express service she was built for. In 1934, she was the first locomotive to officially reach 100mph. She was withdrawn from service in 1963, after 40 years of service. In 2004, she was purchased by the National Railway Museum, and restored to working order in 10 years, costing £4.2 million. To celebrate this historic visit, The Watercress Line is hosting a week of exclusive events, including:
Premium Breakfast & Afternoon Tea
Experiences (13, 14, 15, 20 & 21 March): Travel with the legendary Flying Scotsman and enjoy a truly unforgettable journey with breakfast or afternoon tea, in our luxurious First Class dining carriages.
Day Out With Flying Scotsman (13, 14, 15, 20 & 21 March): Experience the thrill of riding behind Flying Scotsman through the glorious Hampshire countryside.
Static Display Day & Footplate Tour: Step aboard the cab for a guided, behind-the-scenes look at the controls and inner workings of this engineering marvel.
Photography Experience with Nikon (11 March): Capture the locomotive in all her glory with expert guidance from professional photographers.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness, ride, and dine aboard a true legend of British railway history, here in March. For more information and to buy tickets visit: www.watercressline.co.uk
THE MAVERICK HAMPSHIRE TRAIL 2026
We’re heading to the beautiful South Downs National Park to explore the trails surrounding Winchester. The routes we have mapped are intended to test you. With 3 route options to choose from, there’s something for everyone. The trails will lead you up and over undulating hills with panoramic views across the National Park. Stunning winding trails take you past the River Itchen and through some awesome woodland before you head back to Cheesefoot Head. This route is fast and hard-packed so we may even see some PBs and new course records set. Please note, there is no outpost on the Short route.
We have rated the trail as level 2 difficulty which means the route is predominantly on well-kept and well-trodden trails. There may be some technical features but these will be simple to negotiate. There will be some noticeable hills but nothing that will slow down your pace to a complete standstill.
Finisher time expectations - We would expect your finishing time to be slightly slower than the pace you would run on a hilly road route and certainly slower than on a flat road route.
Registration:
Half Marathon 24km - 07:45 - 09:15am
Middle route 16km - 09:00 - 10:10am
Short route 5km - 09:00 - 10:10am
Start times: Half Marathon: 09:45am
Middle & Short: 10:15am
Located at: Matterley Basin Grand Prix Track, Winchester, Hampshire, SO24 1HW. The entrance to the event area is via the A272. There will be no access via the A31. Please follow parking signage and race marshals who will direct you once you are on site.
If you would like more information or would like to enter the event, visit: https://www. maverick-race.com/products/the-maverickhampshire-trail-run-2026
FORGED IN STEEL: SKILL, SYMBOLISM, AND THE SOLDIER’S BLADE
Renowned worldwide for their courage, Gurkhas have built an extraordinary reputation over more than 200 years of service. This spring, discover the blades that symbolise that legacy.
This new temporary exhibition brings together a remarkable collection of bladed weapons from The Gurkha Museum Trust, including the iconic khukuri (kukri), personal sidearms, and weapons used by the Gurkhas’ formidable opponents. Each object reveals a story of skill, tradition, and the deep bond between soldier and steel.
Displayed in our second-floor gallery, the exhibition explores how these weapons were forged, adapted, and personalised for use in some of history’s most demanding battlefields. Alongside the exhibition, learn more about the Museum’s redevelopment project, known by its Nepali name, Project Kaida, and visit our museum shop.
More than just an exhibition of weapons, this display offers insight into the courage, craftsmanship, and enduring spirit of Gurkhas.
This is a FREE exhibition, although donations to support this and future exhibitions would be most appreciated. The event runs from Monday 2 March to Saturday 2 May 2026.
To stay informed about Gurkha heritage, Project Kaida, and future exhibitions and events, subscribe to our free e-newsletter or become a Friend of Gurkha Heritage by visiting www.thegurkhamuseum.co.uk
For more information visit: https:// thegurkhamuseum.co.uk/event/forged-in-steel/ Please note, unfortunately, the exhibition will be closed to the public on: 2 March, 12 March, 16 March, 21 March, 27 March.
The Gurkha Museum, Peninsula Barracks Winchester, SO22 8TP.
Servicing, MOT, Tyres & Bodywork Repairs
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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
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TEL: 01962 865602 MOBILE: 07752 570787 OR VISIT WWW.PRESTIGECARSALRESFORD.CO.UK
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