ITCHEN VALLEY ISSUE 235_JULY by Mark Tubb

Itchen MagazineValley

Cover image: Courtesy of Stephen Morley

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

• Many garages will refuse to replace wetbelts, not us!

• We always use the correct oils and genuine parts

• We have a qualified wetbelt team

• We can check to see if your wetbelt is due replacement (service history required)

Editor

Mark Tubb

editor@forumpublications.co.uk

Director of Advertising

Steve Walker stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

Advertising Manager

Mandy Head mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk Feature

Forthcoming Events

Entente Cordiale Concert

Fri 3 and Sat 4 July

From 6pm - 8pm

Pinglestone Barn, Old Alresford, SO24 9TB

An evening of French and English music with Friary Brass Band and Muriele, French singer. Fundraising event for St. Mary’s Church, Old Alresford. Tickets: £20 from friarybrassband.com

The Ropley King’s Singers Summer Concert

Saturday 4 July

From 7pm - 8.30pm

St Peters Church, Church Street, Ropley, SO24 0DS

Join the Ropley King’s Singers for summery choral music, solos and readings. Bar open before/after the concert from 6.15pm - 9.30pm (outside if the weather is fine). Adults £15, Children £5. Buy tickets online at: www.stpetersropleyvenue.org.uk

Wessex Sculptors Copper Bowl Workshop

Saturday 4 July

From 10am to 4pm

Brockwood barn. Bramdean SO24 0LQ

Create copper bowls using a range of copper working techniques. This is an intensive introduction to working with copper, and will include techniques such as cutting and hammering out copper sheeting; soldering; and processes such as annealing, folding, spreading and shaping. The minimum a student will leave with is a copper bowl with a soldered base and small bowl using fold forming techniques. Only 8 places (Max) available for this workshop. For further information and to check availability. Contact: Anne Lain 07785 715985 anne.lain627@gmail.com - Giles Summerhays Wessexworkshops@ summerhays.co.uk

Songs for Summer - Alresford Community Choir Join Alresford Community Choir for a relaxed and uplifting Summer

Saturday 11 July

From 7.30pm

St John’s Church, Alresford, SO24 9AG

concert, featuring a light and varied programme of music to suit the season. The performance, lasting about an hour, will be preceded and followed by an opportunity to chat, and enjoy the bar in good company, with live background piano music. The concert will also support Leukaemia Care, raising funds for a cause close to the choir’s heart, and will mark the launch of our new ‘Friends of the Choir’ scheme — an invitation for supporters, former members, and the wider community to stay connected with, and support our work. Tickets go on sale on Monday 25th May and are priced at £5. They can be obtained from https://www.ticketsource.com/ alresford-community-choir/ All profits and donations will go to Leukaemia Care. We would be delighted to see you there for an enjoyable summer evening of music and community.

Alresford Historical and Literary Society Talk

Wednesday 15 July

From 7.30pm

Methodist Church, Jacklyns Lane, Alresford, SO24 9JJ

A talk entitled ‘Some Lost Railways of Hampshire’ by Richard Coglan. Winchester Morris Men

Wednesday 15 July

From 7.45pm to 8.30pm

The Chestnut Horse, Easton, Winchester, SO21 1EG

At The Chestnut Horse, Easton.

YMCA Fairthorne Manor will be hosting the Villagers Open Air Shakespeare Company

Friday 17 July

From 6.30pm (starts 7.30pm)

YMCA Fairthorne Manor, Curbridge, SO30 2GH

For a performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream raising money to support children who have the responsibility of caring for a loved one. The performance will be held on 17th July with all proceeds supporting the Young Carers Festival which is held on the site every year and welcomes over 1000 young carers for a weekend of fun, laughter and, most importantly, respite. The Villagers are celebrating their 40th year of performances in their usual style with picnics, camp chairs and Shakespeare while the sun sets. All the event details and booking can be found here: https://ymca-fg. cinolla.com/course/shakespeare-inthe-garden---midsummers-nightdream

Alresford Antiques Fair

Saturday 18 July

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/ Contact: Instagram - carolfentum antiques - Carol - 01264 335769 / 07870 432805

Andover Chamber Choir Rhymes and Recollections

Saturday 18 July

From 7.30pm

Farleigh School, Andover, SP11 7PW

A choral collection of childhood songs. Tickets £15 on the door, £12 in advance, under 16s free. Refreshments included. Available at The Lights, Andover (in person and online) and through choir members. Proceeds in aid of Andover Young Carers. www.andoverchamberchoir. org.uk

Alresford Heritage Open Days

Heritage open days at the Eel House (11am - 5pm), Museum (12noon - 4pm) and Medieval Bridge (12

Sunday 19 July

Various Times

Various Locations

noon - 4pm). Come along and see Alresford’s heritage. Entry is free but donations are appreciated to maintain these attractions.

Ropley Horticultural Society Talk

Monday 27 July

From 7.45pm

‘Petworth Community Garden’ a talk by Kate Green. The Society will also hold its annual Sweet Pea Competition. Guests £5 on the door includes refreshments, all welcome Enquiries: Jill 01962 772425

Ropley Horticultural Society Summer Show

Come and see the vegetables & fruit, flowers, floral art, eggs, photography and cookery classes. There are also children’s classes for design and create, grow and cookery. Entry and parking FREE, all welcome. Refreshments and Raffle - Enquiries: Jill 01962 772425

Alresford Heritage Open Days

Alresford’s heritage. Entry is free but donations are appreciated to maintain these attractions. For details see Sunday 19 July.

Car Boot Sale

Ropley Parish Hall, Vicarage Lane, Ropley, SO24 0DU Monday 31 August

From 8am

Wood Lane, Bramdean, SO24 0JW

Gates Open 8am - Help us to support local families. Everyone welcome. Buying or browsing? Admission is by donation (cash only, please). Selling? - Car Boots £10, Vans & Trailers £15, (cash only, please). Grab a bargain, refreshments available. www.home-startwinchester.org.uk

Registered Charity 1108170 For more information: Call: 01962 773185 or 07802 354444 Or email: sue.gentry@ gentrypublicity.co.uk

This event is kindly sponsored by Hellards Estate Agents.

Transform your home with bespoke interior designs tailored to your lifestyle. Our expert designers craft elegant, functional spaces that blend premium materials, intelligent storage, and timeless aesthetics.

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Discover interiors designed around youbeautiful, practical, and uniquely yours. Book a consultation today and start creating your perfect interior space now.

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ALRESFORD Guide Price: £2,000,000 | EPC Rating: Exempt

ALRESFORD Guide Price: £1,200,000 | EPC Rating: C ALRESFORD To Let: £2,800pcm | EPC Rating: D

Far from the madding crowd…

People from far and wide marvel at our beautiful market town, with its meandering chalk streams, Georgian townhouses and array of independent shops and businesses. Some like to so much they decide to move here to sample for themselves the exceptional quality of life that Alresford and the surrounding area has to offer.

A name you can count on in a changing world…

name you can count on in a changing world…

The possibility of working from home part of the week has now become a reality for many people, allowing them to free-up valuable time for family and relaxation. Homes of all shapes and sizes are in demand locally, especially those with a study or garden office, which are a pre-requisite for successful home working. Good internet is critical as well, so locations and villages with good connectivity are highly sought after.

If you are thinking of selling or letting your home this year, you need a partner who understands why Alresford is so attractive to home movers. Please contact one of our dedicated team for a friendly chat, and to find out how we can help you along your property journey.

We hope to hear from you soon!

A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO PROPERTY VALUATION

A valuation service that considers both the sales and rental markets affords homeowners the most comprehensive assessment of a property’s potential in the current market.

By undertaking a sales valuation, an agent will establish a property’s likely market value based on buyer demand, recent comparable sales, market trends, and individual attributes. This provides a clear understanding of the capital value that could be realised through a sale and enables owners to evaluate their position within the current market.

At the same time, a rental valuation offers valuable insight into the property’s investment potential. Assessing achievable rental income, tenant demand, and prevailing rental market conditions allows owners to understand the potential return that could be generated if the property were retained and let rather than sold.

In an evolving property market, the strongest financial outcome is not always immediately obvious. There may be circumstances where retaining a property and generating rental income provides greater long-term value, while in other cases strong buyer demand may present an excellent opportunity to maximise capital returns through a sale.

Ultimately, a dual valuation provides clarity, flexibility, and strategic insight. It enables property owners to fully understand both the capital and income potential of their asset, ensuring they are equipped to make confident decisions that align with their immediate requirements and long-term objectives. For your complementary dual valuation contact: 01962 571189

Kate Porter

Head of Sales

katep@countryhousecompany.co.uk

kate@countryhousecompany.co.uk

Into the Weeds

“What’s ‘bandwidth’?” Himself peered at her. “When it’s not about the internet, I mean.” Oh dear, she thought.

“It’s something that people say at work. It really means time or capacity.

Telling someone that you ‘don’t have enough bandwidth’ is nicer than you ‘can’t be bothered’. Less confrontational.”

“I like it!” He was enthusiastic. “I can’t wait to use that.”

“But not on me, I hope,” she commented, thinking that it would be beyond weird. Himself was a ‘call a spade a shovel’ kind of a guy and, after she’d spent a lifetime working in offices, she found it refreshing.

“Not unless I want to say I can’t be bothered nicely!” He laughed like a drain. “Oh, oh, I’ve got another one!” he chortled. “‘Into the weeds’. Someone on the radio was saying that they weren’t going to get into them. And it wasn’t Monty Don.”

Mmn. She wasn’t sure that she wanted to get ‘into the weeds’ either. “Well, it means that they don’t want to focus on the minutiae and lose the big picture.”

“Really! I’ll stow that one away for future use too.” He looked gleeful. She’d really rather he didn’t. Work was work and home was home. They were different countries, with different languages. And she liked it like that.

To distract him from his newly discovered dialect, she suggested they nip to the garden centre. The reference to weeds had reminded her that on July’s job list was dealing with some perennial thugs that were intimidating some of her more genteel specimens. Her favourite imaginary friend, Claude, had suggested a natural, pet-safe, non-toxic, eco-friendly weed killer. It sounded too good to be any good, frankly, but she wanted to ‘pressure test’ it. Just in time, she caught herself before she said that one out loud for Himself to add to his burgeoning dictionary of corporate-speak.

Alarmingly though, they got halfway down the road when he announced,

“We’ll have to circle back on this one.”

“What did you say?” She’d been thinking about work and wondered if she’d actually manifested more over-used jargon.

“I’ve left my wallet at home. We’ll have to circle back on this roundabout. Won’t take long.” Himself went on to make a very un-corporate comment about a fellow motorist’s driving skills - and she felt a surge of relief.

The expedition to the garden centre was successful. Expensive, but

successful. Armed with the recommended weedkiller (Claude would be so pleased when she told him) she decided she’d tackle the ‘low-hanging fruit’ first. Glad she’d said that only in her head, she declared, “let’s try it on the little ones growing through the patio. See if it ‘moves the needle’.” Darn and blast! She braced for impact, but Himself was peering at his ‘phone and hadn’t heard.

“Darling, I know you’ve bought this new stuff, but I saw Martha Stewart on the internet killing weeds using vinegar and salt. I wanted to show you, but Martha’s not loading. I don’t think I’ve got enough bandwidth..” he said without a trace of irony. It was as weird as she thought it would be. She smiled.

“Oh well,” he said. “Anyway, I’ve got a surprise for you!” Taking her by the hand he led her down the garden path to the abandoned vegetable bed. Last year she’d tried to grow peas and runner beans. The peas had been a dismal failure – she didn’t want to do a ‘deep dive’ into the reasons for that, probably a lack of ‘syncing up’ the ‘action items’, namely watering and weeding.

The runner beans, on the other hand, had produced lots of greenery, some very ornamental flowers and even a few beans. She’d cut them back at the end of the season, but the promised re-growth hadn’t happened like Chat GPT had said it would. To be fair to her former favourite imaginary friend, it had used a lot of words that she now suspected may have been important. But she’d put ‘drainage’, ‘sheltered’ and ‘mulch’ in the ‘parking lot’ and ignored them.

“I’ve been watering them.” Himself announced proudly. He was pointing at the abundance of plants that had wrapped themselves in elegant spirals around the bamboo stakes (she immediately thought ‘stakeholders’). Stoppit.

But he really was a darling boy. The lush and lovingly nurtured, pernicious bindweed was flourishing where the runner beans had gone to die. She thought fondly of Himself toiling up and down the garden, weighed down with watering cans.

Gently, she led him back up the path, tenderly placed the weedkiller into his hands and said, “If we ‘have the bandwidth’, I think we may ‘need to circle back on this one’ and ‘get into the weeds after all’...”

Summer Maths Programme Launched to Prevent Summer Learning Loss and Build Confidence

Mathnasium is a leader in maths only education with learning centres across the UK. Mathnasium in Winchester has now launched a special Summer Programme designed to help children retain and strengthen maths skills over the long summer break through personalised learning and confidence-building support.

James Kirk, Centre Director, Mathnasium of Winchester confirmed: “Summer should be a time for children to relax and enjoy themselves, but it can also be a period where important maths skills begin to fade. Students can lose a significant amount of progress over the summer, with research showing that “summer slide” affects maths far more than reading and children may lose up to 39–42% of the maths skills they gained during the school year.

“Summer is a critical time for learning retention for both primary and secondary school students, and it also provides a valuable opportunity to get ahead in preparation for GCSE studies.

“Our Summer Programme is designed to keep children engaged, motivated and progressing in a positive environment, helping to prevent summer learning loss while building confidence and understanding. By September, students return to school feeling more prepared, more confident and ready for the year ahead.”

Mathnasium’s Summer Programme is suitable for children who need support catching up, keeping up or getting ahead in maths. Each child follows a personalised learning plan, allowing them to work on their individual goals at a pace that suits them.

The programme is built around the Mathnasium Method™, a proven approach

that focuses on developing deep understanding rather than memorisation, helping students strengthen core skills and build long-term confidence in maths.

The summer programme includes a comprehensive assessment and personalised learning plan tailored to each child’s needs and summer goals in addition to engaging maths activities designed to make learning interactive, enjoyable and rewarding. Face-toface maths instruction is focused on building understanding, strengthening key skills and increasing confidence while flexible scheduling can fit around family holidays and summer plans.

Where is Mathnasium of Winchester located?

Mathnasium of Winchester is on Parchment

Street in Winchester, only a one-minute walk from the Butter Cross on the High Street, in the centre of the city. St Peter’s car park is at the end of the road, with pay-and-display options on Friarsgate and Tower Street nearby. The surrounding area has a good mix of shops and cafés, so there is plenty to do while your child is in their session.

67B Parchment Street, Winchester, SO23 8AT Tel: 01962 589248

For further information please contact: winchestser@mathnasium.co.uk or visit: www.mathnasium.com/uk/maths-centres/ winchester

How to Enrol at Mathnasium of Winchester

Whether they would like to attend sessions in-centre or online, students can take 3 easy steps to enrol at Mathnasium.

Mathnasium

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

Financial planning tips for entrepreneurs

It can be easy to neglect your own finances when you’re focused on growing your business. But creating a solid plan for both your business and personal finances can give you more confidence your hard work will pay off.

Here are five financial planning tips for entrepreneurs.

1. Make the most of pensions

Relying solely on your business to provide for retirement is risky.

Making contributions into a pension could help you save for retirement. As a business owner, you can make your own tax-efficient savings into your pension and make employer contributions that are deductible against corporation tax.

Your accountant can help you make the most of all the personal and business tax reliefs.

2. Protect against risks

Insure not just your business premises and stock, but also what’s arguably your most valuable asset – yourself. Protection against death and illness could be crucial. Also consider key person protection and shareholder protection to minimise disruption should the worst happen to one of your key members of staff or shareholders.

Finally, make sure your will states who will receive your shares or business interest when you pass away.

3. Plan your exit strategy

Planning your exit early could reap rewards. Work with a wealth manager to determine your ‘magic number’ – how much you would need from a sale to achieve your desired lifestyle. The wealth manager can also help you work out how much your future lifestyle might cost, and whether your finances are sufficient.

Note that from April 2026, the 100% rate of Business Relief applies to the first £2.5m of combined qualifying assets. A 50% relief rate is available for any assets above this value, which gives an effective 20% IHT rate. Investments that aren’t listed on markets of recognised stock exchanges, including the Alternative Investment Market

(AIM), no longer benefit from full relief – the 50% rate applies to the entire sum.

4. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket

While growing your business should be the priority, also consider investing across other asset classes, such as equities, bonds, and cash. This could help to cushion the impact if your company doesn’t perform quite as well as expected.

We can help you build a diversified portfolio that suits your individual needs and objectives.

5. Surround yourself with experts

At RBC Brewin Dolphin, we can introduce you to the right people at the right stage of your journey – whether that’s venture capital firms, lawyers, tax advisers or accountants.

We’ve worked with thousands of business owners, supporting them in making the right decisions. With us at your side, you can concentrate on looking forward to the future with confidence.

We live and work local to you. We would be delighted to help you and your family achieve financial clarity and stability.

Adam Jarvis Head of Office –Senior Investment Manager E: adam.jarvis@brewin.co.uk

Kirsty Simpson Director, Wealth Manager E: kirsty.simpson@brewin.co.uk

46 Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8RY T: 01962 798000 W: brewin.co.uk/our-offices/winchester

The value of investments and any income from them can fall and you may get back less than you invested. This does not constitute tax or legal advice. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. You should always check the tax implications with an accountant or tax specialist. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy. RBC Brewin Dolphin is a trading name of RBC Europe Limited. RBC Europe

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:-

Specialist wealth management and financial planning

• Independent and objective advice

• Proactive investment management

• Attentive service

• Transparent fees

• Online access to portfolios

ALRESFORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWS

Member of the month

For over four decades, Matheson Optometrists and Hearing Care has been woven into the fabric of Hampshire life. What began in 1984 as a small independent practice has grown into a trusted centre for exceptional eye and hearing care - yet their values have never changed. They still believe in taking the time to understand each person’s needs, offering thoughtful, personalised care supported by advanced technology and a warm, welcoming team.

This year, they are thrilled to welcome Jose Henao, an optometrist whose international background brings a wealth of expertise to our community. With specialist knowledge in ocular disease, dry eye management, advanced contact lens fitting, and low vision supportand currently pursuing a Doctor of Optometry degree - Jose represents the forward thinking, patient centred approach they are proud to champion. At Matheson, compassion, integrity, and innovation guide everything they do. Whether you’re seeking clarity of vision, improved hearing, or simply trusted advice, they are here to walk that journey with you. 1-3, West Street, Alresford SO24 9AG 01962 732336

A Great Evening at The Swan: Chamber Members Enjoy a Classic Fish & Chip Supper

A great evening was had by all at the quarterly Alresford Chamber of Commerce Fish & Chip Supper, held in the welcoming restaurant of The Swan Hotel. Members gathered for an easy going night of good food, lively conversation, and the simple pleasure of spending time together.

The Swan’s team served generous plates of traditional fish and chips, which proved as popular as ever. The relaxed setting encouraged plenty of mingling, with long-standing members catching up and newer faces quickly made to feel part of the fold. Laughter travelled easily around the room, and the atmosphere had that unmistakable sense of community spirit that makes these quarterly suppers such a highlight in the Chamber calendar.

Events like this continue to play an important role in strengthening local business connections, offering a friendly space to share ideas, build relationships, and enjoy a well earned midweek break. As the evening drew to a close, many commented on how valuable these informal gatherings are — a reminder that sometimes the best networking happens over a plate of perfectly cooked fish and chips. The Chamber extends warm thanks to The Swan Hotel for their hospitality and to all who joined us for making it such an enjoyable night.

Together we are stronger Keep track of our events, follow us on Facebook @AlresfordChamberofCommerce / AlresfordCofC / info@alresfordchamber.co.uk / www.alresfordchamber.co.uk

MR MAC - JULY NEWS

Windows 10 reached end of life on 14 October 2025, meaning Microsoft no longer provides security updates for it. If you’re still running Windows 10, your PC is increasingly vulnerable to viruses and malware. Some older machines can upgrade to Windows 11 for free; if yours can’t, it’s worth considering a replacement. Get in touch if you’d like advice either way. If you’re already on Windows 11, there’s good news: Microsoft’s June 2026 update introduced a “Low Latency Profile” that gives older, slower PCs a noticeable speed boost when opening apps and menus. Great news if you’re on a budget laptop.

I’m often asked whether it’s worth waiting until September when Apple usually unveils its new iPhones before buying one. Unless you specifically want the very latest model, you’re usually better off buying an earlier one already on the market. That’s especially true this year, as the iPhone 18 isn’t expected to differ much from the current iPhone 17. There’s also a strong rumour that Apple may, for the first time, delay its standard new model until spring 2027 (the Pro models are still expected this September); so “waiting for the new one” could mean waiting far longer than usual. If you need to update your iPhone now, give me a call to talk through the options. I offer unbiased advice, free of charge.

Andy – Mr Mac July 2026

When your vet closes, who looks after your pet?

Our emergency and out-of-hours service is now back in-house.

That means:

 Your pet is treated by our own Cedar Vets team

 Full access to your pet’s medical history

 Care stays local — with emergency care provided from our Alton surgery

 Seamless follow-up with your usual vets

Because in an emergency, familiarity and continuity mean peace of mind.

Looking for a vet you can rely on day and night?

Cedar Vets provides 24/7 care from a team who already know your pet. Save our number — you never know when you might need us

PUBLIC INFORMATION 2026

Boomtown returns to the beautiful South Downs National Park near Winchester from 12th–16th August 2026. We understand that hosting a large-scale event in a rural location can have an impact on local residents and businesses, and we are committed to keeping our neighbours informed throughout the planning and delivery of the festival.

This guide contains useful information to help you prepare for the event, understand what to expect during the festival period, and find details of the support and contact channels available before, during, and after the event.

GETTING IN TOUCH

If you have any questions or concerns before, during, or after the festival, please give us a call or send us an email - we will be glad to help.

DATES CONTACT INFORMATION

Urgent Queries

(LOCAL RESIDENTS HOTLINE): 020 3781 7260

Saturday 8th August –

Monday 17th - August 2026

URGENT QUERIES (EMAIL): EVENTCONTROL@BOOMTOWNFAIR.CO.UK

Non-Urgent and Ticket Enquiries LOCAL_COMMUNITY@BOOMTOWNFAIR.CO.UK DATES

Outside of these dates, please direct all queries via email to: local_community@boomtownfair.co.uk

KEY TIMINGS

Tue 11th August N/A N/A N/A 09:00 to 12:00

Wed 12th August 10:00 - 21:30 12:00 - 21:30 11:00 - 23:00 09:00 to 12:00

Thurs 13th August 08:00 - 21:30 10:00 - 21:30 10:00 - 00:00 09:00 to 12:00

Fri 14th August 10:00 - 21:30 10:00 - 21:30 10:00 - 04:00 10:00 to 12:00

Sat 15th August 10:00 - 21:30 10:00 - 21:30 10:00 - 04:00 N/A

Sun 16th August 10:00 - 21:30 10:00 - 21:30** 10:00 - 00:00 N/A

**For those attending with Sunday tickets, please note that the box office closes at 19:00 for first-time entry.

SIGNAGE

Directional and information signage will be erected on the local network during the event. Temporary traffic signals will be utilised to maintain traffic flows and increase safety at key locations. Please comply with the signage as it is there to ensure the safety of ALL road users.

• 40 mph speed limits will be in force on the A31 from Tuesday 11th August to Monday 17th August and on the A272 from Saturday 8th to Monday 17th August.

• Gap closures on the A31 will be in operation from 03:00 on Wednesday 12th August to 22:00 on Monday 17th August. Gaps at Orr’s Meadow and Rodfield Lane will be reopened Friday - Sunday during off peak event traffic periods for local access. Gap closures may be reinstated if deemed necessary for safety reasons Friday - Sunday. We do not recommend pedestrian access to the festival site for safety reasons. All attendees must use the designated transport routes and arrive via the approved entry points only. Pedestrians are encouraged to make use of the Shuttle Bus service from Winchester Train Station to site.

A31 LANE CLOSURES

• Westbound: Lane closures and merges will be operational on the A31 Westbound during the festival - please use Lane 2 (offside lane) to avoid the event entrances.

• Eastbound: Lane closures and merges on the A31 Eastbound on Monday 17th August - please use Lane 1 (nearside lane).

LADYCROFT ROUNDABOUT, A31

U-turns at the Ladycroft roundabout on the A31 will not be permitted for vehicles to proceed westbound on the roundabout or from the B3047 Alresford Road (except buses) on Monday 17th August from 09:00 - 16:00 to avoid the event entrances.

JUNCTION 9 WORKS

We recognise the disruption the ongoing J9 improvement works have caused, particularly with the increased traffic on local roads. We have worked closely with the J9 delivery team throughout our planning process to coordinate our traffic management strategies.

Our priority is to ensure our measures complement theirs, avoiding any conflicting closures and preventing any compounding impact or additional strain on the local network beyond what is already being experienced as a result of the ongoing works.

ROAD CLOSURES

On Wednesday 12th August, Thursday 13th August, and Monday 17th August, roads local to the festival site may be subject to closure to help manage traffic and protect nearby residential areas from excessive congestion.

Residents wishing to use a road that is closed may approach accredited staff on duty at these locations to request access.

If you live in the local villages and would like a Local Access Pass, please email local_ community@boomtownfair.co.uk, and the team will be able to issue one where appropriate.

PEAK TRAFFIC TIMES

A272 running from the A31 to Rodfield Lane

• Wednesday 12th August: 10:00 - 18:00

• Thursday 13th August: 10:00 - 18:00

• Monday 17th August: 08:00 - 17:00

A31 from M3 Junction 9/Spitfire Link to Alresford

• Wednesday 12th August: 10:00 - 18:00

• Thursday 13th August: 08:00 - 18:00

• Monday 17th August: 10:00 - 17:00

Rodfield Lane between the A31 and A272

• Wednesday 12th August: 10:00 - 18:00

• Thursday 13th August: 08:00 - 18:00

• Monday 17th August: 10:00 - 16:00

Morestead Road and Longwood Road

• Monday 17th August: 08:00 - 16:00.

Footpath and Car Park Closures

The South Downs Way will be diverted from Monday 10th to Wednesday 19th August inclusive. There will be signage in place showing a new walking route this year around the perimeter of the event site. The diversion is necessary in the interests of public safety. Cheesefoot Head Car Park will be closed from the 10th to the 21st August 2026.

Boomtown Closing Ceremony and Maintenance

Boomtown Closing Ceremony: Boomtown uses low-heat, special effects pyrotechnics for the closing shows on the main stages, which finish at midnight on Sunday. This approach is taken to minimise noise and any potential impact on local wildlife.

Road Sweepers

Road sweepers will be on standby throughout the event to keep nearby roads clear if required.

River Coffee Roasters

Meet Will Harrigan, founder of the specialty coffee roastery based just outside Alresford

River Coffee Roasters started with a one-way ticket to Latin America

In 2017, Will went on a purpose-led adventure to live, work and learn the roots of the coffee industry first-hand. Will had recently completed a dissertation on corporate, social responsibility in the coffee industry, and found this had only scratched the surface of his curiosity into one of the world’s most traded commodities. With the view of there being no better way to learn than experience something, Will spent a year working alongside coffee farmers, pickers and producers across Latin America. “It was whilst working on a farm in Costa Rica that the idea of River Coffee was born” says Will. “Rivers and waterways are so important to the communities in coffee producing regions – both in terms of growing coffee and sustaining livelihoods”.

After experiencing the hard labour, long hours and many hands involved in coffee production, Will made it his mission to source, roast and supply exceptional speciality grade coffee that was fully traceable back to the producing communities and sourced through direct relationships.

In 2018, Will returned home to Winchester to improve the quality of coffee being drunk on home turf and established River Coffee Roasters. He was no stranger to the coffee industry having previously worked, trained and competed across the specialty coffee scene in the UK.

The Roastery

A lot has changed since Will first started roasting with a tabletop roaster on his parents’ kitchen table. Today, River Coffee operate from their production roastery in Bighton with capacity to roast over 1000 kilos of coffee a day. The team of six, who won Small Business of the Year at last year’s Winchester Business Awards, supply coffee to many leading hospitality venues across Hampshire and beyond.

The roastery is now in its eighth year and they are proud that their mission remains the same. “We only buy speciality graded coffee. Through the relationships we’ve developed in coffee producing countries we can ensure the premiums we pay for coffee go directly to the producers who grew it. We collaborate with producers on upcoming coffee selections and make regular origin visits to the countries and regions we buy from” says Will. The specialty roaster’s most recent visit was to Minas Gerais in Brazil, the heart of Brazilian coffee production and an area where nearly 50% of the country’s coffee output is produced.

Rooted in Hampshire

While the beans travel from coffee-growing regions across the globe, River Coffee Roasters remains firmly rooted in Hampshire. The coffee roastery are a member of Hampshire Fare and are proud to be part of a landscape of incredible local producers. Through its River Community programme, the business also supports local initiatives, including its two-year charity partnership with the Boaz Project Winchester. The roastery team have

recently installed a coffee machine on site at the charity and have begun a year-long barista skills training programme for adults with learning disabilities.

Shop The Range Online

Their Source Blend is a 2-star Great Taste Award Winner with coffee sourced from Colombian & El Salvadoran producers. As is Drift Blend, another Great Taste Award Winner, sourced from their partner farm in Brazil, Rio Brilhante, which translates to ‘bright river’ due to the beautiful waterway running through the farm. Their bestselling Flow Blend is served in many leading hospitality venues across Hampshire and beyond, including Thyme & Tides Deli (where Will’s coffee career began as a part time barista), Salt Deli, Bombay Saphire Distillery, Sky Park Farm, Lemon & Ginger & Open House Deli. Their coffee is packed in fully recyclable packaging, including their chemicalfree decaf. There’s no flavour compromise in the decaf sourced from Mexican producers, which undergoes a mountain water decaffeination process to retain its full flavour before being shipped to the UK. Alongside their blends, are seasonal single origin coffees carefully selected from fresh crop harvests from farms around the world.

River Coffee’s house blends and single origin coffees are available to shop online on their webshop for home delivery, or you can click and collect for free from the roastery. www.rivercoffeeroasters.com

D. Barker & Son Ltd

40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

40a West Street, Alresford, Hants

40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

JACKIE’S COUNTY CORNER

Every month, Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) is making its way towards ‘Vesting Day’ in April 2028 when the new Unitaries become official, and Hampshire County Council ceases to exist. There are a lot of difficult decisions to be made, and the ‘to do’ list is long.

Or that was the case before the Conservative Cabinet at Hampshire County Council announced its decision in mid-June to seek a judicial review. They are challenging the process that Government had used which led to the breaking up of Hampshire into five unitaries and amending boundaries.

From the start of the process, districts put forward one view, and Hampshire put forward a different view. Now this announcement from HCC could scupper the whole process, leaving us all, including districts like Winchester City Council, with a difficult problem: continue what we’ve started or wait until the outcome of the Judicial Review, which may waste money at a time when the County Council’s finances are in turmoil.

To be fair, it is true that the process has created real and expensive areas of concern, including complications with planning policies, expanding roles of Combined Mayors and transfer of vital social care and children’s services to new authorities. But this has been done before in other Counties, for example in Surrey and Dorset, so we know that it is possible if done systematically over time.

The County Council’s Grant scheme has re-opened. The minimum is £100, the maximum £1000. The details are online, including the application form on hants.gov.uk , search ‘county councillor grants’.

As the fund is limited, I’d like to give the grants to organisations working together to satisfy the four criteria set by HCC (as set out on that page). Last year’s grants included money towards renovation of an ‘old style’ signpost at Wonston, and the Martyr Worthy bus stop! The form is quite simple and grants are given quickly, but the sum is limited so contact me if you are thinking of a new project for 26/27!

Poor quality air limits the life expectancy of our whole population. Winchester City Council has an Air Quality Strategy for the whole district, but recognises that polluted air emanates from many sources including transport, heating, construction (eg: from the M3 work), and from the ports so there are several local Councils including New Forest and Winchester which join together with the University of Southampton and the Directorate of Public Health at Hampshire to promote ‘Clean Air South’. Having led on the Air Quality Strategy for Winchester and currently the Planning Portfolio, I was pleased to be invited to talk to MPs about how the planning system could bring about improvements to air quality.

I join Mums for Lungs in their campaigns too, so if any resident wants to start an ‘Engines off so we don’t cough’ campaign or a School Street with a Park and Stride regime to school, I’d love to hear from you.

Cllr Jackie Porter Jackie.porter@hants.gov.uk | 07973 696085

DANNY CHAMBERS - OUR HOSPITAL IN WINCHESTER IS AMAZING. LET’S MAKE IT PERFECT

My team and I speak to constituents regularly about the issues they care about the most. I always work as hard as I can to take your message to Westminster and I do everything possible to make sure your views are heard. In just the first two weeks of June, I spoke in Parliament eight times - on our hospital, water industry, community pharmacies, children’s safety and immigration.

During Prime Minister’s Questions, I challenged Keir Starmer again on the state of our hospital in Winchester. After having been promised 40 new hospitals by the last government that we knew were never going to happen, the current government is now promising us a new hospital in Hampshire in 20 years’ time, if it gets built at all. Our hospital in Winchester is vital for the community; people rely on A&E and maternity services being available right here in the city. But the hospital is facing a huge repair backlog. It desperately needs investment for repairs to its roofs, windows, the car-park, generators and lifts.

That’s why I asked Prime Minister Keir Starmer to break this cycle of governing parties promising us hypothetical hospitals and to instead commit to fixing our existing hospital in Winchester. If the government can find millions of pounds to purchase land for a hospital that may never be built in 20 years time, surely they can find the money to get these repairs sorted right now.

I also raised issues about the way we handle child maintenance cases with the Solicitor General. Financial abuse is a form of domestic abuse. A parent who refuses to attend court for child maintenance hearings, so no judgement can be made, leaves the other parent stuck in this loop of abuse, with no means of escaping. I asked the Solicitor General to look at what can be done about parents who repeatedly fail to show up to court, and evade any repercussions.

I challenged the Home Secretary over the consequences of her immigration policies. We’re all far more likely to be treated by immigrants working for our NHS than we are to be waiting in queue behind them. In our local hospital, staff come from 104 different countries and a third of the social care workforce in Hampshire come from outside of the EU or UK.

I urged the Home Secretary to reflect on how her immigration reforms could seriously impact our NHS and social care workforce. Trying to copy Nigel Farage by enacting policies designed to drive away skilled legal migrants would just make the crisis in the NHS and social care even worse.

Finally, I’m pleased to see that after having campaigned on this issue alongside my Liberal Democrat colleagues over the past year, AI chatbots will finally start to be regulated for young people. This is a brilliant first step - but far more must be done. I will be continuing to call for tougher regulation on AI chatbots giving out health advice or emotional support.

If there are any issues you’d like to get in touch with me about, please contact me at: danny.chambers.mp@parliament.uk

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Blooming marvellous!

Helping bees bounce back in South Downs National Park

More than 100 hectares – or 4,000 tennis courts – of lush wildflower habitat are being created in the South Downs National Park to help bees flourish.

The Bee Lines initiative continues to give a helping hand to struggling pollinator populations by creating wildflower havens at farms, community fields, recreation grounds, road verges, schools, and even cemeteries, football and golf clubs.

In the UK, around 13 species of bee have been lost already and another 35 are currently at risk of extinction.

The inspiring campaign launched in 2019 and since then there has been an amazing transformation at sites across Hampshire and Sussex, with carpets of beautiful wildflowers springing up and many sites are now buzzing with bees and butterflies.

The “Bee Lines” effectively create a “road system” for pollinating insects, allowing them to move through the landscape more easily.

To date, the South Downs Trust, the official charity for the National Park, has funded 37 projects and 106 hectares of habitat has been transformed into wildflower oases.

A further eight projects, yet to be confirmed, across Hampshire and Sussex will benefit from more funding later this year.

Jan Knowlson, Biodiversity Officer for the National Park, said: “It’s fantastic to see this network of wildflower corridors really becoming established and there are early signs that bees and butterflies are returning, but there’s still so much more that needs to be done to help pollinators.

“These insects have been on a steep decline across the UK for several decades and are now under threat from climate change and habitat loss, so it’s really important we create more spaces for pollinators to thrive.

“One out of every three mouthfuls of our food depends on pollinators such as bees.

“People can also do their bit to help on a smaller scale by simply creating wilder areas of their gardens and planting some wildflower seeds. Working together we can turn this around and our countryside and towns can once again be buzzing with bees!

“We’d also like to thank every single person and donor who has helped with the fundraising as without them none of this nature recovery work could happen.”

One of the sites benefitting from funding is Blacknest Fields, in Binsted, Hampshire. The site is managed by community volunteers with a focus on creating a haven for all kinds of wildlife, including bees and butterflies.

Sarah Womersley, one of the volunteers, said: “With the help of National Park rangers, we now have a brilliant meadow management regime in place.

“We’re seeing a much more diverse range of flora in the meadows and that in turn is helping our pollinators. Back in 2022 when the site was first opened to the public, there had never been any wildlife recording here at all. Since then, we have a brilliant group of volunteers who record regularly. We’ve seen over 30 species of butterflies on the field, more than 30 species of bees and wasps and over 190 different species of moths. Seeing what Blacknest Fields has become over the past five years has been wonderful.”

Meanwhile, a 1.5-hectare field called Tangletrees, near Graffham, West Sussex, has benefitted from funding and has transformed into a beautiful wildflower meadow.

Landowner Ian Forrest said: “It’s encouraging to see oxeye daisies and other species starting to thrive in the new meadow. Creating habitat takes time, but this grant has given us the chance to make a real start for pollinators and biodiversity. We’re very grateful for the support.”

Before at Tangletrees

After at Tangletrees

Bee Lines has been supported by plant conservation charity Plantlife, including providing landowners with bespoke advice on establishing wildflower habitats with the help of meadow expert Matt Pitts. Bee Lines is part of the wider ReNature campaign, which is aiming to create vital new wildlife habitats across the National Park to fight biodiversity loss.

Bee Lines has been made possible with the support of the many individuals who have donated, as well as Aspinal of London, the Big Green Give Fund, the Boltini Trust, Chalk Cliff Trust, Friends of the South Downs, Howdens, Jude’s, Lawson Trust, Nyetimber, OSB Group, the PIG-in-the-South-Downs, Shanly Foundation, South East Water, Southern Co-op, and founding patrons of the South Downs Trust.

To donate to Bee Lines and ReNature visit https://southdownstrust.org.uk/

New Alresford Town Council

New Alresford Arlebury “BARK”

Family Fun Day

Dog lovers, families and local residents are invited to enjoy a fantastic day of fun at the New Alresford Arlebury “BARK” Family Fun Day on Sunday 5th July, from 11am to 4pm at Arlebury Park, New Alresford (SO24 9EP).

This community event promises a wonderful day out for all ages, with plenty to keep both two-legged and four-legged visitors entertained.

One of the highlights of the day will be the popular Fun Dog Show, giving owners the chance to show off their canine companions in a variety of light-hearted classes. There will also be a Scurry Dog Show where dogs can test their speed and agility.

Fancy entering your four-legged friend?

Fun Dog Show entries are just £2 per class, with all proceeds going to this year’s event charity, Hampshire Paws Animal Welfare.

To save time on the day, entries can be made in advance using our online booking system. Alternatively, Fun Dog Show entries can also be made on the day for £2 cash per class.

If your dog would like to have a go at the Scurry Dog Show, entries can be made and paid for on the day, with all proceeds also being donated to Hampshire Paws Animal Welfare

Alongside the dog activities, visitors can enjoy a traditional Punch & Judy show, face painting, a bouncy castle, live entertainment throughout the day, and the ever-popular Bubbles Man, whose giant bubbles are always a hit with children.

A variety of local stalls will be attending, along with a great selection of food and drink, making it the perfect opportunity to relax, meet friends, and enjoy a summer day in the park.

This year, Hampshire Paws Animal Welfare has been chosen as the local charity to benefit

from all proceeds of the event raffle. Visitors will have the chance to win a fantastic selection of prizes generously donated by local businesses and organisations including Pinglestone/Pommery, The Flower Pots Inn & Brewery, The Watercress Line, Long Barn, Riverford Organic, The Naked Grape, Moda Rosa, Country Clippers, ARC Café & Bar, Cedar Vets, BillyGoat, Chocolate Craft, The Cricketers, The Bell, Mange Tout, Interior Style and many more.

Whether you’re entering your dog into one of the competitions, bringing the children along for the entertainment, or simply looking for a fun day out in the community, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The event is organised by New Alresford Town Council with the generous support of Cedar Vets, Gamekeepers Goods, The Flower Pots Inn & Brewery, New Alresford Town Trust (NATT), New Leaf Alresford and The Arlebury Café.

Entry is FREE, and everyone is welcome. Make a note in your diary and join us for what promises to be a fun-filled day at Arlebury Park.

Herb Garden

Have you spotted our refreshed herb garden beside the Arlesford Recreation Centre?

We’ve planted a wonderful selection of herbs for everyone in the community to enjoy. Whether you need a handful of basil, chives, fennel, parsley, fresh mint, rosemary, or other seasonal herbs, you’re very welcome to stop by and pick what you need.

The herb garden is open to all, and we hope it encourages more people to enjoy fresh, homegrown flavours while spending time outdoors. Next time you’re passing by, take a look, have a smell, and help yourself! Just please leave enough for others to enjoy too.

July 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 / Community Meeting

Tuesday 7 July from 19:00 – 21:00

Property Committee Meeting

Tuesday 14 July from 19:00 – 21:00

Full Council Meeting

Tuesday 21 July from 19:00 – 21:00

Alresford Town Council: 01962 732079 www.newalresford-tc.gov.uk

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ROTARY INTERNATIONAL AND SHELTERBOX

Alresford Rotary is part of Rotary International, a global network of more than 45,000 clubs with more than 1.2 million members seeking to create a lasting change across the globe, as well as in their local communities. Since the charity ShelterBox was established by the Rotary Club of Helston in 2000 ShelterBox has consistently been a major beneficiary of Alresford Rotary’s foreign giving and, thanks to your support of its local fundraising events, Alresford Rotary has since July 2025 donated more than £6600 to ShelterBox. Despite ShelterBox now being independent of Rotary International and its charity, The Rotary Foundation, about 50% of ShelterBox’s annual income originates from Rotary donations.

ShelterBox provides emergency shelter, aid essentials and technical expertise at times of disaster, conflict and climate crisis. Initially this was provided by sending aid packages in iconic green boxes but as “one size doesn’t fit all” the importance of adapting to the needs on the ground became apparent. Although the charity remains known as ShelterBox the green boxes are now consigned to history and ShelterBox now delivers a more customised solution - tailored, innovative and effective aid - with different packaging. By way of examples a family disaster tent costs £405, a shelter tool kit £35, a kitchen set £27, a solar light £15 and a blanket £6.

With the community’s continuing support of Alresford Rotary’s community events (Fireworks, Christmas Trees, Quiz, 10k run, Apple Juicing etc) Alresford Rotary will continue to support ShelterBox as, in conjunction with its partners on the ground, it reaches communities to deliver the emergency essentials people need to begin rebuilding their lives in the aftermath of disaster (whether man-made or natural).

To find out more about ShelterBox have a look at https;//shelterbox. org or phone 0300 0300 500. If you want to help make a difference not only to your community, but also across the globe Alresford Rotary would love to hear from you!

James Pinniger

NEW LEAF NOTES - OUR COMMUNITY GROWING PROJECT

It’s time for an update from New Leaf’s Community Growing team. Growing vegetables organically using no-dig methods continues to be a learning curve. Experiments growing certain organic vegetables have been mostly favourable - Black Magic kale, Romanesco cauliflower and Sakura tomatoes did very well between August and December last year. They were fussy as seedlings and attracted more mealy aphids than their non-organic counterparts, but the team persevered.

After Christmas, the organic Groninger Brussels sprouts were rather small, the purple sprouting broccoli were very late and went to seed rather than growing florets, with the Santee organic variety worse than the non-organic. The team aren’t sure if it might have been the extremely hot summer of 2025 which gave early energy and brilliant leafy growth but poor winter produce. It could have been lack of water or perhaps lack of nitrogen, being the second year growing in the same location - or even a lack of extra nutrients from manure. The 2026/2027 season will tell the team more!

At the end of May they were very busy potting on seedlings, adding manure to the minimal dig potatoes instead of earthing up, and mixing in organic fertilizer and soil improver to the surface. The old method of double digging, using trenches and deep weeding, is now understood to disrupt the soil ecosystem. The minimal dig idea is to feed the soil from top down and mimic nature, protect soil structure, and allow earthworms and microbes to do the cultivating for you. De-slugging after the cold wet weather has become a big job too – slugs are kindly relocated rather than being poisoned with chemicals.

The growers are currently trialling Mangelwurzel, also called field beet or fodder beet, traditionally used as livestock feed but edible for us roasted, boiled, or mashed like a potato. Like many root vegetables the leaves are edible too and can be cooked like spinach.

They are exploring the use of herbs like thyme, oregano, rosemary and sage as pest control companion plants, and plan to over winter cover crops like clover, legumes, and winter salad leaves to suppress weeds, prevent soil erosion, and to offer more variety to the usual brassicas and root veggies.

The team are increasing their composting efforts so that they can be less reliant on manure, and they are looking at Bokashi composting. If you would like to find out more about New Leaf’s Community Growing project, please come along to a special al fresco July Natter at the plot! Join us on Thursday 9th July from 7pm. The plot is at Spring Gardens – as you enter the allotments look to your right and you should be able to find the group. Come along to see what’s being grown, how it works, or just to enjoy a summer evening at the allotments. Everyone is welcome!

Find out more here: https://newleafalresford.org/community-growing/ Contact New Leaf: enquiries@newleafalresford.org

At Town and Country, we take pride in ensuring every client receives the best customer service, from the informative and knowledgeable sales process through to the extensive after sales care.

Our boutique showroom showcases some of the finest kitchen and bathroom furniture available, with a strong emphasis on UK and European manufacturing. Bathroom manufacturers on display include; Ambiance Bain, Merlyn, Roper Rhodes, Burbidge, Miller of Sweden, Tissino and Arte Form, with Porcelanosa and Ca’Pietra tiling throughout the showroom. Our kitchens are expertly crafted by Schuller, one of the largest German kitchen manufacturers, and Mackintosh, their products are made exclusively in Britain. Both have an extensive and inspiring collection ranging from the contemporary to the more traditional.

Please contact us regarding our complimentary design and quotation service, we look forward to hearing from you.

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Telephone: 01489 536187

Email: sales@town-and-country.co.uk www.town-and-country.co.uk

MUSEUMFORTHCOMING EVENTS

We have plenty going on during the Festival of ArchaeologyFrom 18 July - 1 August.

The Time Detective Agency Fact Trail

Step into the shoes of a Time Detective and uncover the clues hidden in the past! Join us at the Curtis Museum for an exciting, interactive family event where young explorers and grown ups work together to solve historical mysteries through play, puzzles and discovery. Packed with creative activities and archaeological challenges, The Time Detective Agency invites families to investigate, build and dig their way through history. What’s in store?

3D Pot Puzzles

Become a finds specialist and reconstruct broken pots using three dimensional puzzles, just like real archaeologists do in the lab. All materials provided. Explore real archaeological techniques in a fun, creative way. Create your own layered stratigraphy jar to take home. Perfect for curious minds, young explorers, and budding archaeologists!

Thursday Craft Club - Soap Knapping 23 July

Step back into the Stone Age this Thursday at Craft Club and discover how early humans shaped tools from flint and stone! Using bars of soap instead of sharp flint, children can safely try their hand at “knapping” - carefully carving and shaping their own prehistoricstyle tool to take home.

This hands-on activity explores one of the oldest skills in human history and is inspired by real Stone Age artefacts in the Curtis

Museum collection. Perfect for curious young archaeologists, crafty makers, and anyone who enjoys getting creative with history. What to expect:

• Learn how prehistoric people made tools and weapons

• Create your own soap “stone tool” to take home

• A fun, hands-on introduction to archaeology and ancient craftsmanship

• All materials provided • Craft Club costs £2 per child, and your 5th craft is free.

Thursday Craft Club, Stratigraphy Jars - 30 July

Become an archaeologist for the day and discover how layers of soil can reveal clues about the past! At this week’s Craft Club, children will create their own colourful “stratigraphy jar” using different layers of sand, soil, and materials to explore how archaeologists read the ground like a history book.

Inspired by real archaeological digs, this hands-on activity introduces the fascinating idea of stratigraphy - the study of layers that helps archaeologists understand what happened long ago and when. What to expect: Learn how archaeologists uncover history layer by layer. There will also be Dig Pits for children to explore, and a Fossil Handling Box - an opportunity to handle replica fossils and learn about real ones.

Opening Times - Tuesday to Saturday from 10am – 4.30pm Tel: 01420 82802 | www.hampshireculture.org.uk/curtis-museum

Winchester City Councillors' Report July

Winchester City Council and Hampshire County Council

One of the updates given out at the Full Council on Tuesday 2nd June was the on the topic of the new Wards that will be used in the new Mid Hants Unitary Authority. For many councillors it drove home the fact that our old local authority of the Winchester District and Hampshire County Council will be going. The new boundary changes are due to be settled by the end of June. The timetable of the Local Government Reorganisation sets a deadline for many of the projects the City Council wishes to progress.

Small Grants

WCC recently opened three new small grant schemes for community and voluntary organisations, both in the town wards and across the wider district - click the links below to find out more about each scheme!

• District Small Grants Scheme: Grants of up to £700 available for community groups and charities outside of the Winchester town wards

• Greener Faster Small Grants Scheme: Grants of up to £1,000 available to support organisations that contribute to our Greener Faster priorities across the district. We are particularly keen to fund projects that:

o Reduce energy use

o Improve nature and biodiversity

o Provide future protection against extreme climate events

If you’re part of a community group that could make use of a one-off grant to support community activities or sustainability initiatives, be sure to check out these funding opportunities! grants@winchester.gov.uk or call 01962 848 269.

Cllr Clare Pinniger also has a separate database of grants and would be pleased to hear from any person or organisation looking for financial help with a project.

Nature Improvement Plan -

Tackling the nature emergency, enhancing and protecting nature There have been significant national and local

changes relating to nature recovery in the last four years, since we published our Biodiversity Action Plan 2021. The Environment Act 2021 places a strengthened duty on local authorities to consider biodiversity in all our functions, and the Environment Improvement Plan 2023 sets out new national targets.

The council demonstrated the importance of nature locally, and the need for action to address its decline, by declaring a nature emergency in 2023. Following on from our Biodiversity Action Plan, the Nature Improvement Plan 2025-2030 outlines a new approach to ensuring the delivery of nature improvement across the district. It establishes guiding principles for all council functions in relation to biodiversity and sets measures for the next five years. The full Nature Improvement Plan 2025-2030 Technical Report is also available to download as a PDF.

If you have any questions about the Nature Improvement Plan, please email naturalenvironment@winchester.gov.uk

Campaign to Improve Bus Journeys

Although Alresford is blessed with a good bus service, the 64 if you wish to travel to either Winchester or Alton, the same cannot be said for other villages. There are many complaints about the infrequency of the 67 between Petersfield and Winchester, along the Itchen Valley.

There is a campaign to improve the bus service that works using some software called ‘My Ideal Bus Journey’. The software developed by a former bus driver, is not the most sophisticated but it does provide accurate data about where and when people would like to travel on a bus. Users are required to register, this is simply to ensure that the evidence gathered is credible and can be demonstrated to be genuine and shows Hampshire County Council and bus operators that the data has come from real residents rather than bots, automated submissions, or duplicate

entries. Go to https://myidealbusjourney. org.uk/ You will be asked to join various bus campaigns.

For example you might wish to join the one for the 67 bus. Click the box [I’m a Current or potential bus user] This gives you the chance to detail your ‘Ideal Bus Journey’ with times, frequency daily or weekly etc. to meet your work, shopping, leisure, healthcare appointments, evenings out, or weekends. Unfortunately most people have several different ideal journeys, but on this system each one has to be detailed separately and saved before the next is added. This software has been used successfully elsewhere to improve bus services.

The real advantage of the tool is that, once sufficient data has been collected and we close the consultation period, it can be used to generate potential routes and timetables based on actual demand. Our hope is that this will provide compelling evidence to Hampshire County Council and bus operators that there is unmet demand for better bus services.

Please do all you can to spread the word and encourage participation. The more responses we receive, the stronger our case will be.

Margot Power - T: 01962 734167 mpower@winchester.gov.uk

Clare Pinniger - T: 01962 738788/077900 32349 cpinniger@winchester.gov.uk

Russell Gordon-Smith - T: 01962 733219 rgordon-smith@winchester.gov.uk

Spanish Style Shrimps with Two&One Olive Oil

“This dish is a true taste of Spain - simple, vibrant, and perfect for sharing with good bread. The whole dish comes alive with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil which adds a gorgeous depth and richness to the shrimp. Cooking with such high-quality Spanish olive oil makes all the difference: it turns something so simple into something so flavoursome”

INGREDIENTS

Takes 10 mins - serves 2 as a main, 4 as starter

• 12-14 large prawns, shell-on

• 5 garlic cloves, sliced

• 1 red chili, sliced

• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 5 - 6 tbsp Verde Harvest Olive Oil

• 1 lemon, for finishing

• Crusty bread, for serving

METHOD

Heat the Verde Harvest Olive Oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and chili, letting them gently sizzle until fragrant but not burnt. Add the prawns and cook for 2 - 3 minutes on each side, until they turn bright orange and are just cooked through.

Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss in the chopped parsley and give everything a good stir.

Serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and plenty of crusty bread to soak up the garlicky, chili-spiked Two&One Olive Oil.

ALPACAS BRING JOY TO RESIDENTS AND LOCAL FAMILIES

The Dower House welcomed some very special visitors recently as alpacas from Solomon Alpacas spent the afternoon roaming the beautiful gardens of The Dower House, creating smiles, laughter, and plenty of memorable moments for everyone involved.

A community event where residents, local families and children had the chance to stroke the alpacas, learn more about them, and take part in alpaca themed activities, with all proceeds going to The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

The alpacas, Echo and Rosie, were wonderfully calm and friendly, quickly becoming the stars of the afternoon. There were plenty of funny moments too, with residents teasing Chris, the COO, that he shared a very similar haircut to Echo - much to everyone’s amusement!

“Events like these are a fantastic way to bring residents, families, and the local community together, creating meaningful experiences and lasting memories for everyone involved” said Chris Golding, COO, “although I may have to re-think my hairstyle now!”

The Dower House is an independent privately owned care home in Headbourne Worthy, Winchester, set in five acres of beautiful, landscaped gardens offering both residential and nursing care.

The Dower House, Springvale Road, Headbourne Worthy, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 7LD

Phone: 01962 882848 | info@thedowerhousewinchester.co.uk

Facebook: /TheDowerHouseWinchester

Instagram: /thedowerhousewinchester

THE RAWLINGS DIFFERENCE

When it comes to eye and hearing care, the experience you receive is just as important as the products you choose. At Rawlings, we’ve been taking a different approach for more than 130 years, providing personalised care built on expertise, time and genuine service.

As an independent family-run business, we believe healthcare should never be one-size-fits-all. We take the time to understand each patient’s individual needs and offer tailored advice and solutions, ensuring everyone feels informed, valued and well looked after.

Our highly qualified team is at the heart of what we do. Our Optometrists, Audiologists and Dispensing Opticians bring extensive clinical knowledge and experience to every appointment. With qualified Dispensing Opticians in every branch, patients can be confident they are receiving expert guidance on both their eye health and eyewear choices.

We also allow longer appointment times than many larger providers. This gives our clinicians the opportunity to carry out thorough assessments, answer questions and discuss the most appropriate options for vision, hearing and lifestyle. It’s one of the reasons so many patients return to us year after year and recommend us to family and friends.

Our practices are designed to feel welcoming and relaxed, offering an alternative to the fast-paced retail environment often found elsewhere. Whether you’re attending an eye examination, hearing appointment or choosing new eyewear, you can expect attentive, personal service from a team that genuinely cares.

When it comes to products, quality is our priority. Our eyewear collection is carefully curated, featuring designer frames selected for their craftsmanship, style and durability. The same principle applies to hearing care. As an independent provider, we can recommend hearing aids from a range of leading manufacturers, enabling us to find the solution that best suits your needs, lifestyle and budget.

At Rawlings, great eye and hearing care comes down to three things: expertise, time and personal service.

Rawlings Opticians, Bay Tree House, 26 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT

Tel: 01962 734744

rawlingsopticians.co.uk

Discover the power of Radiofrequency Microneedling with Lynton Focus Dual, the advanced treatment that stimulates your body's natural collagen production to improve skin quality from within.

Precision microneedling with radiofrequency energy to tighten, lift and rejuvenate.

Fine lines and wrinkles

Loose or sagging skin

Acne scarring

Enlarged pores

Uneven skin texture

Stretch marks

Skin tightening on the face and body

Boosts your body's natural collagen and elastin for ﬁrmer, younger-looking skin.

Minimal downtime with powerful, long-lasting natural results.

Radiofrequency Microneedling works beneath the skin's surface, combining precision microneedling with controlled radiofrequency energy to tighten, lift and rejuvenate with minimal downtime.

Collagen continues to rebuild for weeks after treatment, leaving skin smoother, ﬁrmer and more radiant.

Nurse-led medical clinic

Advanced skin technology

Bespoke treatment plans

Natural-looking results

Private luxury setting in the Hampshire countryside

SUMMER FEELS BETTER SHARED

Bring a friend and enjoy beauty and wellbeing in beautiful surroundings.

COMPLIMENTARY FIZZ

Enjoy a glass of ﬁzz when you bring a friend.

LAKESIDE GARDEN BEAUTY & WELLBEING

Relax and unwind in our beautiful countryside surroundings.

Expert treatments designed to help you look and feel your best.

TREATMENTS INCLUDE:

Beauty Essentials

Massage

Facials

Gel Nails & Pedicures

Waxing

Lash & Brow Treatments

Slimming body wraps

Skin and Body Care Products

Acupuncture

Packages & Gift Vouchers

Scan the QR code to view treatments and book.

Alresford Surgery News

Appointment Reminders

Do you know you can also view any upcoming appointments on the NHS app? If you have signed up to receive text messages from the surgery, you will also receive an appointment reminder 1 week before your appointment.

Call back option

Do you know one of our most busy times to call the Practice is 08:00-10:00?

Do you know the Practice now offers an automated call back option?

An automated call back is a feature of our new phone system, which gives the caller the option to ask for a call back rather than hold on the phone if there is a queue in our busier times. If you select this option, when a member of our Reception Team becomes available the phone system will call you back and when you answer you will be connected to a member of the team.

You will also be sent a text message so you can check your queue position whilst waiting for your call back.

If you miss your call back and you call the surgery back in the same day, your call will be placed as a priority in the queue.

Covid Spring vaccination programme

Over the months of April-June our amazing practice team in addition to our bank practice nurse vaccinated 433 of our patients who were eligible for their Covid spring vaccination and 556 patients with both their RSV and Covid vaccination.

In addition to this our community nurse team and bank practice nurse vaccinated any eligible, truly housebound patients. We would like to thank our amazing staff who have carried out this vaccination programme in addition to their usual workload, this includes our tremendous Reception team and Management team who are pivotal in the co-ordination of the programme.

We will update patients as soon as we have been updated by NHS England with regards

to if/when their will be an autumn booster program.

Travelling abroad

Immunisations and advice are available through our Travel Service. It is important to make this initial appointment as early as possible - We will be unable to offer travel appointments to anyone travelling with less than (12 weeks) prior to their departure date as in some cases a second appointment will be required with the practice nurse to complete a course of vaccinations. Some vaccines have to be ordered as they are not a stock vaccine. Your second appointment needs to be at least 2 weeks before you travel to allow the vaccines to work.

There is still no guarantee we will be able to accommodate your travel request as we have limited capacity, even if you do give us a minimum of 12 weeks notice. You may need to need to book an appointment at a private travel clinic such as the Winchester travel clinic. For more information, please visit our website; https://www.alresfordsurgery.co.uk/ clinics-and-services/

Choosing

the right care: first time, every time!

Did you know? You don’t always need to see a GP for your healthcare needs. At our practice, we have a diverse team of skilled professionals who play vital roles in patient care. For example, this could be a Health and Wellbeing Coach, Pharmacist or a Physiotherapist!

They are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of common health issues, providing timely and effective care. From minor ailments to long-term conditions, our team is here to ensure you receive the right care, the first time around. Learn more about roles and services at https://www.england. nhs.uk/gp/expanding-our-workforce/

Alcohol Awareness Week: 7th-13th July 2026

A chance for the UK to get thinking about drinking. It’s a week of awareness-raising, campaigning for change, and more. Alcohol Awareness Week is managed and hosted by

Alcohol Change UK. This year’s campaign theme is ‘Understanding alcohol harm’ For further information or to get involved, visit; https://alcoholchange.org.uk/getinvolved/campaigns/alcohol-awarenessweek-1

If you suffer from Hay Fever, you don’t need to see your GP to treat the effects

We would like to remind you we do not prescribe hay fever medication. We follow NHS guidance and do not routinely prescribe hay fever medication. Hay fever tablets, liquids, nasal sprays and eye drops can be purchased from supermarkets and pharmacies. Please speak to your local pharmacist who can offer you hay fever help and advice.

Important: Patient emails from EMIS Web. Some patients are concerned that emails sent from noreply@yourhealthcareprovider.co.uk could be phishing attempts and should be ignored.

EMIS Web by Optum for Primary Care would like to clarify that this email address is legitimate and is used to send official, automated patient communications generated via EMIS Web® on behalf of your practice.

To help prevent patient confusion and reduce the risk of important communications being missed, we ask that practices are aware of the following:

Emails from noreply@ yourhealthcareprovider.co.uk are official, legitimate and safe to open.

Patients should continue to exercise caution and remain vigilant for any similar-looking or altered email addresses, which may indicate phishing attempts.

Alresford Surgery, Station Road, New Alresford, SO24 9JL

Telephone: 01962 732345 www.alresfordsurgery.co.uk

Alresford Podiatry is Moving

A big thanks to Eliza at Walkers for hosting us this first year. And a big thank you to all my lovely clients who’s amazing support has made my return to Alresford so much fun.

So time for a bigger room and some designated parking. We will be moving on 1st July so any appointments before then will still be at Walkers, 11 East Street.

Our new Address is:

Alresford Podiatry, 1 Wood Farm Cottages, Bramdean Common, Alresford, SO24 0JL

A map and all details of the move can be found on our website along with our very easy to use online booking system.

Is it time to listen to your hearing?

Hearing changes graduallyso gradually that most of us barely notice. Here’s a gentle guide to recognising the signs, understanding what’s happening, and taking that first, easy step.

Picture this. You’re at your grandson’s birthday party. Everyone is laughing, talking over each other, sharing stories. But you can’t quite follow the conversation - too many voices, too much background noise. So you smile, nod, and hope nobody notices you’ve lost the thread again.

Later, in the quiet of the car home, you feel something you can’t quite name. Not just frustrated. Tired. A little lonely, perhaps. And you think: maybe next year I’ll get my hearing looked at.

Sound familiar? You’re far from alone. Most people wait several years before having their hearing checked — not out of reluctance, but simply because the changes happen so slowly that it’s easy to adapt without noticing. By the time we think about it, it just feels normal.

“Themostcommonthingpatients tellusisthattheywishthey’dcome sooner.Notbecausethingsweredire —butbecauseofhowmuchbetter lifefeltoncetheydid.”

Samuel Longman, Founder & Director, Alresford Hearing Studio

The good news - and there really is good news - is that modern hearing care is gentle, effective, and more accessible than most people realise. Understanding what’s happening with your hearing is the first step. And that’s really all a hearing test is: an honest, relaxed conversation with a

specialist about what you’re experiencing and what, if anything, might help.

SIGNS WORTH BEING AWARE OF - AT ANY STAGE

EARLY ON

You find yourself asking people to repeat things.

Especially in busier environments — restaurants, family gatherings, the phone. This is often the first gentle signal that your hearing may have shifted a little.

A LITTLE LATER

The television creeps up If family members mention the volume, or you notice you need it louder than you used to, it’s worth taking note — not with alarm, just awareness.

OVER TIME

Social situations start to feel tiring When following conversation takes effort, gatherings can feel draining rather than enjoyable. Many people find themselves avoiding situations they used to love — without quite knowing why.

WORTH KNOWING

Hearing and overall wellbeing are closely linked Research suggests that staying connectedthrough conversation, company and shared experience - has a meaningful impact on our mental sharpness and happiness as we get older. Looking after your hearing is looking after yourself.

THE REASSURANCE

Earlier is always easier

The sooner hearing is assessed and supported if needed, the more straightforwardly the brain adapts. There’s never a wrong time to find out where you stand.

At Alresford Hearing Studio, we see patients at every stage — some who’ve noticed only the smallest of changes, others who’ve been putting it off for years. Whatever the case, the response is always the same: a warm welcome, a thorough and unhurried assessment, and honest, independent advice with no pressure whatsoever.

A FEW THINGS THAT MIGHT PUT YOUR MIND AT EASE

• A hearing assessment is completely painless and takes around 30 minutes - many patients find it a relief simply to finally know.

• Modern hearing aids are discreet, sophisticated, and nothing like the devices of even a decade ago - many are virtually invisible.

• There’s no obligation to do anything after a test. It’s simply information - yours to take away and consider in your own time.

• Alresford Hearing Studio offers a 60-day money-back guarantee on all hearing aids so you can try with complete confidence.

• As an independent practice, the team are free to recommend whatever is genuinely right for you - no targets, no one brand to push.

Life is full of moments worth hearing clearly. The laughter at the dinner table. A grandchild’s voice on the phone. The easy back-and-forth of a conversation with someone you love.

A hearing check is simply a chance to make sure you’re not missing any of them. It costs nothing but a little time — and the team at Alresford Hearing Studio will make sure you feel completely at ease from the moment you walk through the door.

Hambrooks Landscaping

Expert gardening care & maintenance in Hampshire

Year round border & pond care

Keep your garden looking beautiful - without the hassle

Shrub pruning & lawn mowing

Hambrooks Garden Centre, Titchfield

Explore our landscaped gardens, specialist plants, outdoor living products, gifts, workshops & garden advice...

Open Mon-Sat: 8am-4:45pm Sun: 10-4pm

When you visit a National Garden Scheme Open Garden you are helping to support many amazing charities. One such charity is the very well known Macmillan Cancer Support. The National Garden Scheme has been supporting Macmillan Cancer Support since 1984. Since this time we have raised £20 million for Macmillan, enabling them to give vital support for people all over the UK from their first diagnosis. Thanks to the incredible fundraising efforts of the National Garden Scheme and its supporters, Macmillan has been able to fund 150 Macmillan nurses, healthcare professionals and specialist care units, including Y Bwthyn, Bristol and Chesterfield. These services play a crucial role in helping people affected by cancer to get the support they need, when they need it most.

Every pound we donate to our beneficiaries is hard-won by the amazing generosity of both our Garden Owners and Volunteers, not to mention that of the ticket-buying and tea-drinking visitors.

The Down House

Itchen Abbas, SO21 1AX

Opening: Thursday 23 July from 2pm to 5pm. Pre-booking available. Admission: £8.00 children free Cashless Payments available. Refreshments: Home-made teas. https://findagarden.ngs.org.uk/ garden/21395/the-down-house

A 2 acre garden laid out in rooms overlooking the Itchen Valley, adjoining the Pilgrim’s Way. In summer, a terrace of agapanthus and succulents, pleached hornbeams, rope-lined fountain garden, formal box-edged potager, a new wildlife pond and sustainable garden, yew-lined avenue and walks in adjoining meadows.

Bere Mill

Amport, Andover, SP11 8AY

Opening: Sunday 5 July. Pre-booking available. Admission: £8.00 children free. Cashless Payment available. Refreshments: Tea & cake 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 on 07703 161074 or rupertnab@ gmail.com

Woolton House

Woolton Hill, Newbury, RG20 9TZ

Opening: Friday 17 July from 2pm to 5pm. Pre-booking available. Admission: £8.00 children free. Cashless Payments available. Refreshments: Home-made teas. https://findagarden.ngs. org.uk/garden/17116/wooltonhouse

This major garden was designed by the famous French designer Pascal Cribier. At present this is the only example of his work in this country. The large Mondrian–inspired layout is dramatic from any angle, even from the air. The long lines of vegetables interspersed with flowers in wonderful colours and textures and in generous quantities leaves a lasting impression for the visitor. The tramline garden has long green paths, exactly the width of the mower. Between these is planting in red: tulips followed by geums, dahlias and amaranthus, later with many different squashes. The picking garden has red pillars for the vines, to partly shade the separate beds of flowers for picking. In the smaller walled garden is a dramatic planting of large cacti interspersed with rows of different sedums. Finally the rose garden has a majestic pond on different levels. This remarkable garden should not to be missed.

Pat Beagley (Head of Publicity) - National Garden Scheme - Hampshire pat.beagley@ngs.org.uk

•

ENVIRONMENT

UK set for a summer of butterflies!

The UK is set for a spectacular summer of butterfliesand everyone is invited to take part!

Leading wildlife charity, Butterfly Conservation, is calling on the public to prepare for a bumper summer of butterflies.

Butterfly Conservation added an exciting new milestone to the 2026 summer season as it set out to discover which of the UK’s butterfly species takes the top spot in the nation’s hearts.

The call to action follows scientific evidence that proves counting butterflies boosts how connected people feel to nature and how motivated they are to protect it.

The charity encouraged people to vote for their favourite species, and to head outside during Big Butterfly Count and see what they can spot this summer.

Kate Merry, Head of Engagement at Butterfly Conservation, said: “Over the last 16 years, more than 1.35 million Counts have been done by hundreds of thousands of people across the UK, spotting almost 13.8 million butterflies and helping us with our vital science and conservation activities.

“This year, we celebrated a bumper summer of butterflies by holding the first-ever vote to discover Britain’s Favourite Butterfly, before welcoming back the 17th annual Big Butterfly Count.”

The Winner was the showstopping garden icon, the colourful Peacock. It beat off fierce competition from a colourful cast of species to take the top spot as Britain’s Favourite Butterfly.

Topping the first-ever vote to find the nation’s champion, the garden favourite beat 59 other butterflies to claim the highly coveted title, in a vote that saw over 20,000 votes cast across the UK between 15 May - 7 June.

The top five was a rainbow of colour, with the Orange-tip coming a close second, Red Admiral third, Holly Blue in fourth, and the bright yellow Brimstone coming in fifth. But ultimately, the stunning Peacock, with its eye-catching and instantly recognisable beauty, stole the nation’s hearts.

Butterfly Conservation’s Head of Engagement, Kate Merry, said:

“The response to Britain’s Favourite Butterfly has been absolutely wonderful, and we’re not surprised. It’s clear that people up and down the country love butterflies of all shapes, sizes and colours, and voted in their thousands for their favourites.

“The Peacock is a worthy winner, it’s a true showstopper and a species that I bet a lot of us picture when we think of butterflies. It’s been really special seeing people get so passionate about their favourites and throw their support behind them! Now we can’t wait to see how many Peacocks are spotted up and down the country in this summer’s Big Butterfly Count.”

The result comes at a critical moment for the UK’s butterflies. In 2024 Butterfly Conservation declared a butterfly emergency after numbers recorded during its Big Butterfly Count fell to their lowest ever.

Now the charity is calling on everyone, everywhere to take part in this year’s Big Butterfly Count between Friday 17 July - Sunday 9 August to help conservationists get an updated picture of how Britain’s most common butterflies are faring.

Big Butterfly Count - Friday 17 JulySunday 9 August

The 17th annual Big Butterfly Count is back and better than ever. Keen citizen scientists are encouraged to get out for the Count and see what they can spot.

Will the nation’s favourite species reign supreme in this year’s Count? Or will it have to share the summer top spot with another?

Take take part and find out more visit: www.butterfly-conservation.org

forthcoming EVENTS HAMPSHIRE

SOUTH DOWNS SHOW 2026

The South Downs Show has been running for decades in various formats and this year it will be a two day event from Saturday 8 to Sunday 9 August. So many attractions and displays are included in the admission price with a totally awesome day to be had without the need to spend any more although the choices of food and drink on offer you may not be able to resist.

Animals

Animals galore including gun dog scurries, dog shows for your dog to enter, Canine Partners awesome displays, Dunreyth Alpacas, Wild in the Country ferret racing, The Reptile Academy.

Arena

Awesome arena acts including the amazing epic Robin Hood experience, Little Nippers terriers, Ridgeside Falconry, Dog and Duck shows, reenactment battles.

Family

Awesome fun for all the family with many activities included in the ticket price. Dinosaurs, miniature steam engine to ride, Juggling Jake circus skills, Punch & Judy, the magical musical bubble bike.

Displays

A whole host of attractions including a living history village, dancing sheep, Solent Guild of Woodcarvers, QE Country Park spinners, the British Army with a tank, Petersfield & District Beekeepers, dog training.

For tickets and more information visit: www.southdownsshow.com

NEW FOREST FOOD FESTIVAL

Enjoy a fantastic weekend of gastronomic delights on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August from 10am to 5pm. There is plenty to eat, drink and see in a vibrant atmosphere here in the New Forest.

Food Pop-ups

Indulge yourself in a weekend of delicious food and drinks guaranteed to satisfy your tastebuds. There is something for everyone, mouth-watering burgers, Tex-Mex, stone-fired pizzas, street food, traditional spit roasts, seafood, artisan coffee, craft beers, awardwinning spirits and much more.

Artisan Market

We are delighted to introduce a host of local and regional producers bringing delights to your tastebuds.

Family Friendly

Enjoy a family day out with lots of fun activities for the kids. Keep your young ones entertained and happy all day with laughs and frolics.

Live Music

Over the weekend, we are thrilled to present a remarkable line-up of exceptionally talented local musicians performing on the main stage.

Camping

The New Forest Food Festival has teamed up with Coast & Country Camping Club, a members-only campsite on the Hinton Admiral Estate. Which offers offer a small, family-friendly, pop-up campsite, a short stroll away at their In Nature Camping site.

For tickets and more information visit: www.newforestfoodfestival.co.uk

DELLFEST - CEDAR VALLEY, EAST MEON

A family festival in Hampshire's Meon Valley Our much-loved family festival returns to The Dell on the 17 & 18 July for another unforgettable summer weekend in the heart of the Meon Valley.

Each summer, Dellfest brings together relaxed countryside atmosphere, exceptional festifood, and uplifting live music for a weekend designed for all ages. It's a celebration of long golden evenings, children running barefoot on the grass, wood-fired pizza shared between friends, and live music echoing across open skies. If you're searching for a Hampshire summer festival that feels personal, playful and full of heart – welcome! There's something for everyone!

Dellfest has quietly become one of the most anticipated family-friendly festivals in Hampshire, because we've shaped it carefully. It's a festival for: - Wild little dancers and snack negotiators - Grown-ups who like their music loud but their atmosphere relaxed - Families who want space to breathe - Friends who want an excuse to gather outdoors - Daytimes are light, lively and full of movement. There's space to roam, sprawl, bump into neighbours and make new friends. As the day rolls on, the mood gently shifts –the light softens, the music builds, and the whole field begins to hum.

This is a Meon Valley festival done the Dell way – thoughtful, generous, and rooted in the countryside that surrounds us.

For tickets and more information visit: thedellhampshire.co.uk/dellfest-hampshirefamily-festival/

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

trusted private transport service Standards you can rely on for airport, ferry port and city transfers

Carpe Diem Executive Cars has built its reputation for excellence, professionalism and reliability offering a premium service at competitive prices

Tel: 0330 6600 029 Mob: 07801 816 062

email: franco@carpediemec.com www.carpediemec.com

ALRESFORD MOTOR SERVICES

• Welding specialists

• Tyres for cars and motorcycles

• 4 wheel laser alignment

• LPG for sale for cars

• Recovery services

TEL: 01962 865602 MOBILE: 07752 570787 OR VISIT WWW.PRESTIGECARSALRESFORD.CO.UK

The Chelsea Flower Show: How sustainable is Britain’s biggest garden event?

By Yinnon Ezra MBE

Readers may recall my recent column about Climate Change – a huge issue where many try to do their bit and others still need convincing. My wife and I have been watching the BBC coverage of the Chelsea Flower Show. It is a breathtaking event. With wonderful garden designs, planting and draws thousands of visitors to the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. It’s a celebration of plants beautiful trees flowers and creativity — but as environmental concerns grow, so does the question of whether the show itself is truly sustainable.

Putting on a Chelsea show garden is not cheap. While the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) doesn’t publish full cost breakdowns, designers regularly report spending tens of thousands of pounds on materials, plants, and labour. These budgets cover: specialist plants grown specifically for the show, skilled contractors and craftspeople, transporting materials into central London, temporary structures, irrigation, and landscaping. For many designers, the show is a major investment — and for sponsors, it’s a high profile marketing opportunity. But the scale of spending also raises questions about waste and long term value.

In recent years, the RHS has faced growing pressure to reduce the environmental

footprint of the event. In response, the 2024 show introduced a Green Garden Audit, a new assessment applied to all large gardens in the Show and Sanctuary categories. The audit looked at: Materials, Waste, Biodiversity, Water use, Air quality. After which designers adjusted their plans, the RHS reported a 28% reduction in carbon emissions across these categories. That’s a brilliant improvement for an event known for its temporary nature.

Some gardens made particularly big changes. One replaced block walling with reclaimed timber, dramatically cutting emissions. Another reduced cement use — a major source of carbon — by redesigning its hard landscaping. This was clearly evident in many of this year’s exhibits.

Sustainability is now part of the design selection process, and the organisation has introduced an Environmental Innovation Award to highlight low impact ideas. Many designers say the new audit has changed how they work, not just for Chelsea but for future projects. Reclaimed materials, wildlife-friendly planting, and low carbon construction are more common.

But despite these improvements, the show still faces unavoidable challenges: Transport emissions from moving materials, plants, and machinery, Large crowds travelling to

the event, Temporary gardens that must be dismantled after just a few days. While many materials are reused or donated, the scale of construction means the environmental cost can never be zero.

Chelsea’s sustainability story is a mixed one. The show has reduced carbon emissions through the new audit. It encourages designers to use reclaimed materials and ecofriendly methods. It promotes biodiversity and raises public awareness of environmental issues. But it remains a resource heavy event. Temporary gardens, however beautiful, require significant materials and energy. High ticket costs can limit participation - though the extensive BBC TV coverage is a real bonus.

The Chelsea Flower Show is not a perfect model of sustainability — but it is certainly moving in the right direction. The new environmental measures show a genuine effort to reduce the show’s footprint, and the 28% carbon reduction is a great start.

And it still looks beautiful and lovely!

For now, Chelsea is best seen as a work in progress: a high profile event using its platform to push greener ideas, while still grappling with the realities of staging a major temporary show in the heart of London!

We will buy your antique and quality vintage jewellery or gold watches.

We will also buy your unwanted or broken/damaged gold, silver or platinum jewellery.

Items we buy include:

• Broken/tangled gold or silver jewellery • Platinum & Palladium Jewellery

• Jewellery with missing stones • Gold Watches • Gold or silver coins (sovereigns, krugerrands etc)

• Single or pairs of gold or silver earrings • Old rings – wedding & engagement rings

• Certificated Diamonds

Best prices paid from people you can trust

Simply bring along your Items in to our shop for an instant, free, no obligation cash offer. You will need to bring photographic ID and proof of address (driving licence or passport & utility bill). Payment methods - Cheque - Bank Transfer - Cash - Part Exchange.

*Diamantina Jewellers reserve the right to refuse to buy any items offered to us.

Our other services include:

Jewellery Design

Our pieces are not only featured in-store but appear in popups all over the world. Our designs will not only inspire you, they will transform you.

Jewellery Repair

We have a full range of jewellery repair and maintenance services. From cleaning and tightening to repairing breaks and resizing, our team can help you.