Meon Valley Forum Issue 50 - November

MEON VALLEY

FORUM FEATURES Lucia Foster-Found The Amazing Habitat of Our South Downs Rachel Hudson Wins at the Rural Business Awards

REACHING 18,750 READERS * MEON VALLEY TOWNS & VILLAGES ISSUE 50 • NOVEMBER 2019

NEWS & EVENTS Festive Performances in the Meon Valley Bishop's Waltham Wins Coveted Award Southampton Philharmonic Choir Cover artist Rachel Hudson: rachelhudsonillustration.com

STYLE ˙ INTERIORS ˙ HEALTH & BEAUTY ˙ INTERVIEWS ˙ FOOD & DRINK ˙ ENTERTAINMENT ˙ EVENTS

14 MEON VALLEY FORUM

ISSUE 50 / NOVEMBER 2019 04 What's On

Local events in the Meon Valley 06 Entertainment

Discover local events and days out

in Hampshire.

10 A South American Panorama

With Amity Travel

14 The Amazing Habitat of Our South Downs 15 Garden

Make your garden dream come true.

Or visit local beautiful country gardens 18 Festive Performances in the Meon Valley 20 Wellbeing

Looking after your health and yourself!

24 Retail/Market Square

Our regular retail feature, Unique,

Bespoke, Eclectic and Local shopping 28 Professional

From photographers to solicitors every professional service you need 32 Church Services

Your local church services

36

36 Lucia Foster-Found

He's a Keeper 37 Home Trades, services, designers.

All you need for your home 40 Rachel Hudson Wins at the

Rural Business Awards 48 Food & Drink

Eat out or stay in. Discover new flavours

in the Meon Valley

DECEMBER COPY DEADLINE NOVEMBER 18th The Meon Valley Forum contains facts, views, opinions, statements, recommendations, advertisements and other content and links to external websites not owned or controlled by the magazine. The Meon Valley Forum takes reasonable efforts to include accurate, current information on its pages, but make no warranties or representations as to the accuracy, safety or value of the published items that are displayed. No liability or responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions in magazine content. The Meon Valley magazine content does not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or recommendations of its creators and any reliance upon its content is taken at the user’s sole risk. Adverts designed by Forum Publications remain the magazine's legal ownership. Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household

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Š Forum Publications Ltd, 2019

Editor Mark Tubb: editor@forumpublications.co.uk Director of Advertising Steve Walker: stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk Director of Marketing Rob Harrison: rob@forummedianddesign.co.uk Advertising Manager Mandy Head: mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk Design Manager James Curtis: james@forumpublications.co.uk Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk Copy Writer Lucia Foster-Found Forum Publications Ltd 11 Broad Street, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9AR Tel: 01962 735137 forumpub www.forumpublications.co.uk Printed on recycled paper

Forum Media & Design A Hampshire based marketing and creative agency, our publication portfolio includes Itchen Valley Forum, Test Valley Forum & Meon Valley Forum. We also provide the design and build of websites, company branding, social media marketing and SEO. For more information please get in touch.

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WHAT'S ON?

NOVEMBER Thursday 14

Winchester Music Club Concert In Winchester Cathedral on 14th November at 7.30pm. Duruflé: Requiem Bernstein: Chichester Psalms Finzi, Lo, the Full, Final Sacrifice Full details on winchestermusicclub.org.uk/

Saturday 16

Droxford Christmas Market This popular Christmas Market will take place from 10.30 am to 3.00 pm in the Village Hall.

Entry is free so come and do some Christmas shopping at our stalls full of art, crafts, woodwork, jewellery and much more, as well as enjoying home-made soup and mince pies which are available throughout the day.

A perfect gift for a wine lover or just want to increase your knowledge on sparkling wine?

Guided by BBC2 and IWC personaility of the year Joe Wadsack and of course our MD Ian Kellett, enjoy a tutored tasting of Champagne and English Sparkling Wine. The evening will include a dosage tasting where you will look at different levels of dosage and the effect this has on the wine. Participants will have a chance to disgorge a bottle of English Sparkling Wine and put in their own preferred level of dosage followed by finishing the bottle with a cork and wire, foil and labels. In other words, you will get a chance to go some way to making your own bottle of fizz, for you to keep.

Includes sparkling wine tasting, canapes, winery tour, bowl food, evening of education and entertainment and your own custom made (by you) bottle of fizz to take away.

Hambledon Vineyard, East Street Hambledon, PO7 4RY Booking at www.participant.co.uk/be_a_ winemaker_make_your_own_sparkling_ wine_29112019

Inspired by a true story and based on the hit movie, Made in Dagenham is the uplifting British musical comedy about friendship, love and the importance of fighting for what is right. ... Funny, touching and timeless, Made in Dagenham shows how ordinary people can do extraordinary things when they stand together.

28th-30th November 2019, 7.30pm in Soberton Village Hall - tickets £8 Box office: 01489 878184 / 07866 931487 Email: tickets@sobertonplayers.co.uk Dress rehearsal performance Sat. 23rd 6pm £6

Friday 29

Make your own sparkling wine at Hambledon Vineyard Make your own sparkling Wine for your chirstmas table, to your personal taste.

Raimes Festive Cellar Doors 2-5 pm on Sunday 1st & 8th December Kick off the festive season by joining the Raimes family in the wine Barn at Grange Farm, Tichborne. Try the three latest vintage sparkling wines and make the most of special offers on the day. This is a free event and no booking needed. Raimes will also be open for drop ins or online order collections on Saturday 14th & 21st December. www.raimes.co.uk

Bishop's Bells Handbell Ringers Charity Concert 7pm at The United Church, Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8RZ. A concert with all the bells and whistles! Bishops Bells Handbell Ringers and Flautissimo, the Southampton Flute Orchestra. Free admission with a retiring collection. Refreshments and gift table.

Proceeds to be split between the Church's Charity, Bishops Bells and Flautissimo.

For further details contact Sandy Foster, tel: 01489 890334

West Meon Christmas Fair

Soberton Players: Made in Dagenham The Musical

Sunday 1 & 8

Saturday 30

Saturday 30

Thursday 28 - Saturday 30

book, please visit: www.participant.co.uk/ the_classic_christmas_festive_afternoon_ tea_01122019

3.30pm - 6.30pm at West Meon Village Hall, Headon View, GU32 1LH. There will be plenty of stalls selling arts and crafts together with food and drinks. There will also be a choir singing. Santa will, of course, be arriving and spending time in his Grotto chatting to the girls and boys about what they are hoping to receive for Christmas.

DECEMBER Sunday 1, 8 & 15

Festive Afternoon Tea at Hambledon Vineyard Enjoy a full Festive afternoon tea of dainty sandwiches, scones, cakes, cream, jam and pots of tea or a festive hot Chocolate to warm you up after a tour of the winery. Try a tasting of two of Hambledon Vineyard’s award winning sparkling wines with your festive afternoon tea. Afternoon Tea is supplied by the amazing Martha Hollis. To view the menu and to

Sunday 1

Wickham Christmas Fair This year's Christmas Fair is fast approaching, make sure you save the date and come along for a fun and Christmassy Day on the first Sunday of December from 11 am to 3 pm.

Our Christmas Fair, which has free entry, has seen hundreds possibly even a thousand people through our doors on one single day to come see stallholders far and wide bearing a wide variety of gifts. There are over 60 stallholders this year at our fair, not only that we have a cafe that will serve Christmas themed foods, a stage which will host 3 different acts, a crafts area for children and we are working on having a grotto again. If you haven't been before most of our stallholders craft their items themselves, this makes a lot of unique items that are sold here in just one day. 11am to 3pm, FREE. Wickham Centre, Mill Lane, Hampshire PO17 5AL

Saturday 14

New Music Makers Christmas Concert 2.30pm and 7.30pm at Hedge End Village Hall. Santa is at the matinee! Tickets, £7, concessions £5, under 5s go free, includes refreshments. Available from The Flower Garden, Hedge End or tel: 01489 781836. www.newmusicmakers.com

% 30 ON N F OF TAKE

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Happy Kitchens were recommended to us by neighbours & within a few minutes of meeting Ben we knew that we wanted him & his team to work on our Kitchen. Ben visited us on 2 occasions so we could view the potential options in both daylight and also at night to ensure the colour scheme worked for us. Ben offered his expert advice without once feeling pressured and was more than happy to accommodate us when we wanted to change our mind on a few final touches. A pleasant surprise was that they fitted all our new appliances without any additional charge.

The team who completed the job were a pleasure to deal with & worked exceptionally hard ensuring the kitchen was completed on schedule, the whole team treated our home with the utmost respect & we cannot be more pleased with the result.

Fiona & Jim Hawley Happy Kitchens are quite unique as we are able to offer top quality products, available in any size, fitted by the best professionals in the business. Change your kitchen and bedroom with a makeover or design and install a new kitchen and bedroom, whichever suits your needs or price range.

2017 2018

2019

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ENTERTAINMENT

PEACE BY PIECE AT O2 GUILDHALL SOUTHAMPTON

STAR-STUDDED SKIES INSPIRE NEW BOOK ABOUT SOUTH DOWNS FROM LOCAL AUTHOR Tiffany Francis-Baker grew up in awe of the South Downs’ dreamy starry nights. Now the Petersfield-based author has used these nostalgic memories as inspiration to write a new book, Dark Skies.

The South Downs National Park became an International Dark Reserve in 2016 and is one of only 13 in the world. For more details on the next Dark Skies Festival see www. southdowns.gov.uk/enjoy/events/southdowns-dark-skies-festival-2020/ The book follows Tiffany’s year exploring the landscape after dark to see how we connect with nature at night.

She said: “I grew up surrounded by the South

DATES FOR MEON VOICES CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERTS ANNOUNCED

Downs landscape and now live back here with my husband.”

“It’s a beautiful place to explore by day, but at night I’ve discovered hidden worlds under the stars, and been able to see somewhere so familiar with new eyes. Exploring the South Downs was the primary inspiration for writing Dark Skies. I remember listening to a talk by Dan ‘Dark Skies’ Oakley at a local conference and appreciating how lucky we are to have such great conditions for stargazing.”

“I started going for night walks and tuning into my primitive senses to experience the natural world in a new way. There’s something incredibly humbling about looking up at the stars – it puts all our problems into perspective and reminds us that we are just one species in an infinite universe.”

Find out more at www.tiffanyfrancis.com The programme includes a roistering Rodgers & Hammerstein Medley, and uplifting Christmas music from John Rutter, Bob Chilcott, an African American Spiritual and more.

Entry is free, there will be tea, coffee and biscuits for all, as well as a voluntary opportunity to donate to charitable causes at the venues.

The popular Bishops Waltham-based Meon Voices community choir is pleased to announce the dates for its exciting and varied Christmas Concerts as follows: • Wednesday 11 December 2019 from 7.30p.m. at St Peter’s Church, Bishop’s Waltham • Thursday 19th December 2019 from 2.00p.m. at the United Free Church, Basingwell Street, Bishop’s Waltham

The choir has members from all local villages, and is formed from the four main vocal ranges: Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass. Although each range is currently well-represented by existing members, the organisers welcome applications to join regardless of voice type, to join the waiting list for when vacancies arise.

Southampton Philharmonic Choir are pleased to present an inspirational programme of music that sums up a promise of hope from two composers and their view on how they would like the world to be today. The concert takes place at O2 Guildhall Southampton on Saturday 30 November 2019 at 7.30pm.

Karl Jenkins The Peacemakers is a large-scale classical work for soprano soloist, chorus, children’s choir and orchestra. The music is classical and very approachable, with world music and jazz influences. The combination of two choirs, wonderful percussion writing and instrumental detail, makes The Peacemakers an international statement of epic proportions.

The huge variety of styles, textures and musical material that Jenkins has managed to weave together into a coherent and emotional tour de force produces a profound impact.

The work is rapidly becoming as popular and well-known as The Armed Man. The programme also includes Jenkins' composition for string orchestra, Palladio, written in 1995 and Will Todd's No more sorrow, written for chorus, strings, piano and harp in 2014.

Jenkins' inspiration was the 16th-century architect, Andrea Palladio reflecting the mathematical harmony and order of Palladio's architecture in musical form.

Weekly practices are held in the United Free Church in Bishop’s Waltham each Monday evening 7.30 – 9.30 p.m., September – December and January –April.

Todd's gentle and lyrical No more sorrow is a setting of words from the biblical Book of Revelation: Todd writes, ‘When I wrote this piece it felt as if it came in response to the recovery of my daughter from long term illness. The inspirational text suggests a promise of hope beyond dark times.’

For further information please contact Phil 01489 579078 or email coundleypj@yahoo. com or Maureen 0148890335 email alan@ agbuckland.plus.com.

Tickets: £13.05, £19.65, £25.15 with concessions are available from O2Guildhall Southampton box office. For full details please visit www.southamptonphil.org

ENTERTAINMENT

JESSIE KEANE NEW BOOK FROM MEON VALLEY BASED, SUNDAY TIMES TOP TEN BESTSELLING AUTHOR

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Winter Wonderland at F

Christmas Begins at Funland!

Hayling Wonderland is back at Funland, Hayling Island and this year it’s bigger and better than ever!

The package includes • Find yourself teleported to the North Pole and enter our Winter Wonderland • Visit Father Christmas in his house and receive an early Christmas Gift • Stop at the Gingerbread Factory and Lenny the learner Elf’s house too • Take a train ride through the Elf Village and look out for the toys being made in Santa’s Workshop • Entry into the Kidz Kingdom Indoor Play Area as well as Unlimited outdoor Children’s Rides (Height limits on rides and attractions apply • Seasonal Drink and Mince Pie for Adults

Book early to avoid disappointment by visiting www.haylingwonderland.co.uk We also offer special Christmas Party Packages

Funland Hayling Island

Tickets Our ticket prices are as follows: Infants (under 1): Free Child (1-15): ÂŁ22.00 Adult (16+): ÂŁ10.00

Opening Dates We are open on the following dates:

To buy tickets, please go to www.haylingwonderland.co.uk/tickets

For more information Please call: 02392 462820 or visit www.haylingwonderland.co.uk Find us on Facebook: FunlandWinterWonderland

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FEATURE

A SOUTH AMERICAN PANORAMA

S

outh America, a vast continent of contrasting landscapes, from Patagonia with its endless wild, windswept expanses with towering mountains and giant glaciers that sweep down to turquoise lakes through to the driest place on earth, The Atacama Desert, one of the most astonishing and extraordinary landscapes of purple shaded volcanoes, crusty salt flats and spewing geysers. Add to this the Amazon Rainforest, the Galapagos Islands, Lake Titicaca and Machu Pichu, perhaps the most breath-taking archaeological site in the world, you start to realise just how difficult it is to see all that South America has to offer in a single trip. So much so that it makes sense to choose just one or two countries for your first visit rather than cram it all in and find yourself spending more time travelling than actually seeing the sights.

Argentina, Peru and Costa Rica are 3 of the more popular destinations in Central and South America at present, all with much to offer, here are a few reasons why to help whet your appetite.

ARGENTINA Known for the Tango, Gauchos, Patagonian Glaciers and the stylish European-style capital of Buenos Aires.

Flanked on one side by the craggy Atlantic coastline and on the other by the towering Andes mountain range, the diversity offered by Argentina is a traveller's dream. The subtropical rainforests, arid deserts and sprawling wetlands of the north stand in stark contrast to Patagonia’s colossal glaciers, ice fields and boat trips to the end of the world.

In between lie wide-open pampas, glistening lakes, pristine vineyards and the most stylish capital city in Latin America, enriched with European heritage. It is a country which welcomes hikers, culture lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and intrepid explorers alike.

PERU Home to the ancient Inca civilisation, Peru combines stunning mountain scenery of the Andes with a fascinating Spanish colonial history and vibrant modern culture.

Peru reveals a country defined by its people and their interaction with the land, the Glorious Inca citadels, perched

FEATURE high on hilltops, overlook dramatic gorges and valleys and unlock the secrets of an advanced civilisation.

Your story develops in the Sacred Valley, where the descendants of Incas preserve traditional ways of life, and on the colourful island communities of Lake Titicaca, where timeless customs and lifestyles are observed.Your guides in Cusco will show you the Spanish cathedrals and mansions built upon the foundations of sacred Inca temples, the living embodiment of the 16th century conquest.

Your trip might lead you into the Amazon to discover life in the jungle and cruise through the unique flooded forests.

Perhaps you'll choose to soar over the Nazca Lines, the mysterious symbols of the pre-Inca civilisation, or to come face-to-face with majestic Andean Condors in the Colca Canyon.

COST RICA The Pacific coast, the central mountain range and the Caribbean coast, generate a wide range of habitats, ideal for birdwatching.

National Parks protect these habitats and stylish, character lodges offer excellent facilities for you to explore.

Costa Rica has long been renowned as a compact, modern and politically stable country, but that's not what is attracting record numbers of visitors to its shores. With both a Pacific and a Caribbean coastline and a verdant and volcanic interior, planning a trip here involves the difficult task of selecting, from a very long list, which unforgettable experiences you simply cannot miss. Picture yourself seeing baby Green Sea turtles take their first steps in Tortuguero, hiking past sloths in Corcovado or exploring the ancient lava flows from the Arenal Volcano. Imagine getting a birdseye view as you zip line through a cloud forest canopy or checking in at one of the country's famed luxury ecolodges, surrounded by tropical jungle. Travellers are visiting from all corners of the globe, and with new direct BA flights from London, there has never been a better time to visit Amity Travel has many years of experience in tailoring itineraries to fit with their clients personal needs from simply helping to choose the right escorted tour to putting together intricate and complicated itineraries. With a wealth of experience and vast knowledge of touring holidays all around the world, it makes perfect sense to discuss your options and start planning your holiday in the comfortable surrounds of the Amity Travel office.

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14

FEATURE

THE AMAZING HABITAT OF OUR SOUTH DOWNS

I

t was World Habitat Day on Monday 7 October. Around the world, habitat is under threat and with it the species that they support.

You might not realise it at first but the South Downs National Park is home to rare habitat and species, some of which is globally important.

CHALK GRASSLAND Chalk grassland is one of the richest habitats in western Europe, containing a great diversity of species.You can find up to 50 species per square metre! This habitat has developed through centuries of sheep grazing on the shallow, free draining soils that cover the chalk. Once common over the South Downs, it now only covers an estimated four per cent of the National Park.

CHALK STREAMS There are only 200 chalk streams in the world and 160 of these are in the UK with the majority in southern England. The River Meon and River Itchen in the South Downs National Park are fine examples of these rare streams, which are important for wildlife as well as for fishing.

It’s the combination of geology and climate that give chalk streams their distinctive clear water. The good quality water together with the gravels of the river bed, provide habitat for an abundance of insects which provide food for fish. The well vegetated banks with plants such as watercress, give fish and other wildlife places to shelter from predators and forage for food. Our chalk streams are an important habitat for riverfly, brown trout, bullhead, otter, water vole, kingfisher and water shrew.

HEATHLAND Lowland heath is an internationally rare habitat. Heathers are the main type of plant, but you’ll also find birch, gorse, purple moor grass and scots pine. The UK has 20 per cent of the world’s total heathland habitat, though what we have left today is less than a fifth of what was

here 200 years ago.

In the South Downs National Park heathland develops on the Lower Greensand to the north of the chalk downs. The plants have adapted to survive on poor soils and dry or waterlogged conditions. Our heaths support a variety of wildlife such as nightjar, Dartford warbler, smooth snake, sand lizards, silver studded blue butterflies and heath tiger beetles.

The National Lottery Heritage Fund supported Heathlands Reunited project is working with partners to recreate, restore and reconnect lowland heath in the South Downs with the goal of creating an area of heathland greater than 1,200 football pitches.Visit Black Down, near Haslemere to see a fine heath with superb views across the National Park. At 280m it is the highest point in the South Downs National Park.

WOODLAND The South Downs has more woodland – including the semi-ancient Kingley Vale yew forest – than any other National Park in England or Wales, with the abundance of trees forming a vital component of the ecosystem and landscape. Light needs to reach plants and flowers on the forest floor to ensure they can in turn support the animals which rely on them for habitats and food.

Conserving this precious treescape is not without its challenges. Pests and diseases such as ash dieback and Dutch elm disease are growing concerns across the country and will likely change our landscape dramatically. But, through active management and maintaining a good diversity of tree species, we can significantly improve the chances for our native trees and ensure future generations of people, plants and wildlife can enjoy healthy woodland.

Image location: Old Winchester Hill www.southdowns.gov.uk

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GARDEN COMMUNITY

GARDEN

BISHOP'S WALTHAM ROTARY: NOVEMBER NEWS

of their starting point. This is the Rainbow Centre’s DNA.

now be found in Brook Street.

BW Rotary has supported Rainbow over a number of years with funds either by way of donations or by specific fundraising events; the most recent being a Wine Tasting event earlier this year which raised £900.

When the call went out for additional funding the club pitched in with a further donation and we were delighted to learn recently that the appeal target had been reached and funding put back on a proper footing following a considerable drop in income. John Natt, one of our members, sits on the board of Rainbow Centre charity trustees.

RAINBOW CENTRE ACHIEVES FUND RAISING TARGET OF £100K The Rainbow Centre was created by a small group of parents looking to provide the best support they could for children with Cerebral Palsy. That search led to finding ‘Conductive Education’, a system of learning based on the simple concept of human potential: that everyone has the capability to learn and develop, irrespective

CAB OR CA? Many of us have grown up referring to CAB as the local advice centre; but how many people know that the title changed to CA in 2015? CA was established in 1939 as a clearing house for the benefit of civilians who were faced with difficulties as a result of wartime dislocation of normal life; funded by government. Since then, it has become THE point of reference for people needing advice on a huge range of personal issues; but dependent on donations. The CA office in BW was established 1983, and can

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BW Rotary and CA have a long and enduring relationship, and are currently exploring opportunities for further collaboration. Sarah Berry, an ex-trustee and current member of CA, gave a presentation to BW Rotary in September, providing an update on activities. For more information: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/local/ winchester-district/ Christmas Carols. Last year we had some feedback that locals were not aware of when we were coming around with ‘Roger’, the carol broadcasting engine accompanied by Father Christmas. So, this is advance notice that we will be starting our tour of BW and district on the 9th December through to the 20th December. Details of timings and streets by night will be included in next month’s report, and on social media. Put it in your diary now.

As you can see above, your local Rotary Club engages in a wide range of support of local and international causes as well as fellowship.

For more information email Mike Berry at mike.berry@bishopswalthamrotary.org.uk

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GARDEN

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18

FEATURE

FESTIVE PERFORMANCES

W

IN THE MEON VALLEY

ith a large variety of amateur dramatic performances this time of year, it can be quite overwhelming when deciding what to go and see with the family. Here are some of our favourite performances going on in and around the Meon Valley over the festive period, which we hope will narrow down your search.

BLACKBOX THEATRE COMPANY: THE 39 STEPS FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER Following the enormous success of their award winning play, Bully Beef & Whizzbangs last year, BlackBox Theatre Company return with a stunning new adaptation of John Buchan’s classic ripping yarn, The 39 Steps. If there weren’t enough twists in the tale, BlackBox present this story of daring do as a live radio drama. The 39 Steps: A Live Radio Drama is an affectionate take on one of our best loved stories.

Full of thrills and spills, it’ll keep you on the edge of your seats and crying with laughter. At Corhampton Golf Club, 7.30pm. Tickets available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/39steps/the-39-steps-a-liveradio-drama/e-vyzmbx WEST MEON THEATRE: DAISY PULLS IT OFF THURSDAY 21 - SATURDAY 23 NOVEMBER Directed by Suzanne Hall. Energetic Daisy Meredith, a girl from a poor background, is forced to face and overcome snobbish prejudice and schoolgirl pranks from the wealthier girls. She and her best friend, zany Trixie Martin, search for the missing treasure that could save the fortunes of the exclusive Grangewood School for Young Ladies.

Along the way, Daisy overcomes false accusations, saves the lives of her enemies and discovers that the mysterious stranger seen around the

grounds is her long-lost father. At The Meon Hall, Meonstoke. Tickets and times available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/westmeontheatre SOBERTON PLAYERS: MADE IN DAGENHAM - THE MUSICAL THURSDAY 28 - SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER Rehearsals are well underway in perhaps what is Soberton Players most ambitious production to date! Inspired by a true story and based on the hit movie, Made in Dagenham is the uplifting British musical comedy about friendship, love and the importance of fighting for what is right. ... Funny, touching and timeless, Made in Dagenham shows how ordinary people can do extraordinary things when they stand together. 28th-30th November 2019, 7.30 pm in Soberton Village Hall - tickets £8. Box office: 01489 878184 / 07866 931487 Email: tickets@sobertonplayers.co.uk Dress rehearsal performance Sat. 23rd 6pm £6 CURDRIDGE AMATEUR DRAMATIC GROUP: ALADDIN FRIDAY 29 NOVEMBER - SATURDAY 7 DECEMBER

by Ben Crocker. The story of Aladdin comes to Curdridge. Plenty of songs. Great comedy and a feisty, Kung Fu fighting Princess. Come and join us for a fun filled performance - and even Abanazar finds a happy ending! At Curdridge Reading Room, SO32 2HF. Tickets and times available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/southampton/ curdridge-reading-room-and-recreation-ground/aladdin-by-bencrocker/e-exaepl If you would like to feature an upcoming event in The Forum, please email james@forumpublications.co.uk

GARDEN

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WELLBEING

FANTASTIC BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

STIR IT UP! Family traditions are fast becoming a thing of the past as the Pinterest generation start to create their own (Christmas Eve boxes, gender reveal parties) but can we reignite a tradition that can be generational and bring people together.

Stir it up Sunday is the perfect way to kick start the festive season and bring back a beloved tradition that can be carried on. It falls on the last Sunday before Advent so this year it will be 24th November. Used to mark the day you make the Christmas pudding or in our house the Christmas cake. All of the family can get involved even if its just a lucky stir from each person. Try to include everyone, even the family that can’t get to you, go and visit them, take the pudding and let them be involved. If Christmas pudding is not your thing maybe stir it up Sunday could be the day you start a new family tradition.

LAPIS CHRISTMAS PUDDING Ingredients • 6 ounces each of raisins • Sultanas and currants • 2 oz of mixed peel • 2 oz of glace cherries

MEON VALLEY HEARTSTART: YOUR CHANCE TO LEARN HOW TO SAVE A LIFE!

• 6 oz plain flour • 3 oz breadcrumbs • 6 oz suet (vegetable suet is fine) • 4 oz brown sugar, • 3 eggs • 1/2 a glass of brandy • A pinch each of nutmeg, mixed spice, cinnamon and salt • A teaspoon of coffee • Rind and juice of a lemon and an orange • Half a grated carrot • Milk to mix METHOD Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl, beat the eggs & add them and the brandy & juice and add enough milk to give a stiff dropping consistency. Grease a 6-inch pudding basin, fill it with the mixture, cover the top of the basin with greaseproof paper (greased on the underside) with a layer of cooking foil over it, tied on with string. Steam in a steamer over a pan of boiling water for 7 hours and keep checking the pan to make sure it doesn’t boil dry. Store it somewhere cool & dry until you want to eat it: when serving you can either heat each portion up in the microwave like we do or steam it again for about 2 hours.

Looking to start your own Nail/Beauty business? Hair Art may hold the opportunity you need to get started at the best time of the year in our trade.

It is with great sadness that our fabulous Nail & Beauty Technician, Sammy, is leaving us to start a family at the end of November.

This is very sad because Sammy has spent the last eight years building and driving her business forward to become very successful and thriving.

www.lapiscare.com

qualified people with operational emergency experience and will cover a range of emergency life-saving skills including use of public defibrillators.

Bought to you by Meon Valley Heartstart – winner of the 2017 National Heart Sure Award for Best Educational Establishment of the Year.

At Greens Close Day Room, Bishop's Waltham, SO32 1JT on Monday 25th November at 6pm.

Training, which lasts around 2 hours, will be provided free-of-charge by fully

To book your place visit our website at www.heartstartmeonvalley.co.uk or contact David Williamson on 077301 48920 or e-mail info@heartstartmeonvalley.co.uk www.facebook.com/meonvalleyheartstart

This very rare opportunity to rent space at Hair Art is now open to someone who wants to work hard and continue to build the business like Sammy has.

Interested? Then contact us on T: 01489 894700 hairart@hotmail.co.uk

GARDEN

WELLB EING

G

Specialising in all your garden needs Fully insured . Free estimates Also specialising in Commercial gardening work.

HAIR ART Hair Art, the premier hair salon in Christchurch and Bishops Waltham, is one of the leading names in hairdressing in Hampshire and Dorset. With impeccable service and reputation built over 20 years, our highly trained team of experts will give you an experience not to be missed.

Now taking bookings for Summer Garden work

WE DON’T JUST COLOUR AND CUT HAIR, “WE CREATE A NEW YOU”

Lawn Mowing, Grass Care, Hedge Cutting, Pruning, Edging and Border Maintainance, Supply and Planting Flowers and Shrubs, Garden Clearances, Turfing, Supply and Installation of compost or bark mulch Jet Washing Patios Green Waste Removal Garden Refurbishments

20% OFF YOUR FIRST HAIR APPOINTMENT

Tel: 01962 736261 Mob: 07896 027356 info@trimmers-garden-services.co.uk

Tel: 01489 894700 www.hairart-makeup.co.uk hairart.bw@gmail.com High Street, Bishop's Waltham, SO32 1AB

Put your hair in our hands for great hair by our professional team

GLAM & GRACE B O U T I Q U E

Home Care Provider & Consultancy Service Owned and Run by Registered Nurses Glam & Grace is an independent womenswear boutique based in Botley Mills, Hampshire.

Care as individual as your are, in your own home so you remain independent for as long as you need Take a break service also available 2 week trial of care to see if we suit each other

CALL FOR AN INFORMAL CHAT TO SEE HOW WE CAN HELP YOU Cared for Staff = Cared for Clients We value our staff as much as our clients

2018

The name is a reflection of what I consider all women are - glamorous and graceful in our individual ways.

The brand has been created to give a fresh relaxed but effortlessly chic feel to the boutique.

There is a range of clothing to suit real women of all ages, shapes and sizes, ranging from casual to smart, but always stylish.

If YOU are interested in joining our small and friendly team, please contact us as per details below.

We look forward to meeting you

Tel: 01489 890016 contact@lapiscare.com www.lapiscare.com UNIT 9, SHEDFIELD HOUSE DAIRY, SANDY LANE, SHEDFIELD, SO32 2HQ

T: 07952 6 592 27 GLAMANDGRACE.CO.UK I N S TA G R A M / FA C E B O O K : GLAMANDGRACEBOUTIQUE B OT L E Y M I L L S

MILL HILL

B OT L E Y

SO30 2GB

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WELLBEING COMMUNITY community. They highlighted the way in which Bishop’s Waltham strives to be a hub for the surrounding settlements, the welcoming nature of the High Street, the number of community events that take place each year and the engagement of residents in preparing the development plan for new housing in their remarks about why Bishop’s Waltham had won the award.

BISHOP’S WALTHAM NAMED HAMPSHIRE AND ISLE OF WIGHT VILLAGE OF THE YEAR 2019 At a county-wide award ceremony in late September, Bishop’s Waltham won the coveted Hampshire and Isle of Wight Village of the Year Award 2019.

Dawn Hamblet, Chief Executive of the Hampshire Association of Local Councils, presented the award to the Chairman of the Parish Council, Terry Wilson and the Chairman of the Town Team, Robin Shepherd. She said “what had impressed the judges above all is the the large number of community groups and hundreds of volunteers who make the village vibrant and a place for all”.

Organised by the Hampshire Association of Local Councils, and sponsored by Fuller’s Brewers, these awards encourage and promote local communities. There are sub-category winners* as well as an overall winner.

Bishop’s Waltham’s submission was jointly prepared by the Parish Council and the Town Team. This partnership approach was remarked on by the judges as an excellent example of team work in building a strong

MUD AND GLORY AT FONTWELL!

and panoramic views of our beautiful Sussex Racecourse.

THE SOUTHERN NATIONAL RETURNS TO FONTWELL PARK ON SUNDAY 17 NOVEMBER! Hosted at the UK's Only Figure of 8 Jumps Track, The Southern National is one of our biggest race days of the year! Aired on ITV Racing, this 3-mile, 3-furlong test of endurance is the ultimate ride for both horse and jockey! Be there for yourself to experience the thrill and the action of National Hunt Racing!

THE LAND & POWER PREMIER RESTAURANT Experience your race day from the exclusive Land & Power Premier Lounge Restaurant.

The Restaurant is located on the first floor of the Land & Power Premier Grandstand with access to the exclusive viewing balcony

PRIVATE SUITES Talk to us about our Private Suites. We offer a range of packages to suit your requirements.

To learn more, please call or email us at the Racecourse Reception & Ticket Office and we’ll be more than happy to talk you through the available options.

TWO ENCLOSURES The Paddock Enclosure grants you access to 3 Grandstands, the Parade Ring, Winning Circle and a number of Bars and Food Outlets.

The Land & Power Premier Enclosure which includes entry to all of the above, as well as access to the Ground Floor of the Land & Power Premier Grandstand. In which, you'll find the Premier Bar and Café, marvelous viewing overlooking the Winning Post and access to a beautiful rear terrace overlooking Fontwell House & Gardens.

CHILDREN GO FREE Children under 18 go free when accompanied by an adult. ID may be required.

A fulfilment fee (max £2.75) may apply to some orders.

For more information and tickets, please visit www.fontwellpark.co.uk/whats-on/thesouthern-national

Robin Shepherd, Chairman of the Town Team said: “This award is well deserved recognition for the hard work and dedication of the hundreds of volunteers and the numerous community organisations that exist in Bishop’s Waltham who work to make it such a great place to live”.

Terry Wilson, Chairman of the Parish Council said “Those of us lucky enough to live in Bishop’s Waltham know what a great place it is. Winning this award will help us to spread this message across Hampshire and hopefully beyond and encourage more visitors to come and enjoy our village.”

The Parish Council and the Town Team will jointly discuss the best way to spread the news about this award and to make sure winning it brings benefit to Bishop’s Waltham.

The winning submission for the award can be found at www.lovebishopswaltham.com/2019

PETERSFIELD CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL MARKET: SUNDAY 1 DECEMBER

Last year, the weather held for us and the awesome Petersfield Christmas Festival Market brought Petersfield to life. We are hoping for the same again this year, with crowds filling the streets, taking in the festive ambience, buying gifts for loved ones, enjoying the live entertainment on offer and grabbing the chance to visit Santa.

There will be amazing stalls selling a huge variety of products with many new additions this year, as well as the familiar faces bringing back their wares for the people of Petersfield.

The Petersfield Christmas Festival Market has previously been described by a distinguished local resident as one of the busiest days Petersfield has ever seen and this year will be no exception!

For more information, please visit www.petersfieldfest.com/wp/

ALRESF ORDEARI NG STUDIO

COME TO US FOR

SOUND ADVICE

HEARING PROBLEMS? or maybe just Ear Wax?

Visit us for a complete inspection of your ear canal and eardrum. If there is any amount of wax, we can remove it for you using safe and extremely effective methods of Dry Removal or Microsuction (gentle suction).

CALL US ON 01962 790749 we offer appointment times at short notice to suit you and a very competitive pricing structure of £70 for 2 ears · £45 for 1 ear

Alresford Hearing Studio, a family-run business, provide the highest standard of hearing care to the local community, offering you the best products and service that match your requirements. Visit us for: Lo c al & t Independen Family Run Business

FREE HEARING ASSESSMENTS • Latest Hearing Technology • Hearing Protection Products

• Tinnitus Solutions • Service, Tuning & Batteries

CALL US ON 01962 790749

TO BOOK YOUR FREE APPOINTMENT ALRESFORD HE ARING STUDIO

ALRESF ORD HEARING STUDIO

4 2 W E S T S T R E E T • A L R E S F O R D • H A M P S H I R E • S O 24 9 AU CALL US TODAY ON: 01962 790749 • VISIT US AT: alresfordhearingstudio.co.uk

Free Hearing Consultations · Invisible Hearing Aids · Tinnitus Advice · Phone & Mobile Compatible Technology · Home Visits

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RETAIL outstanding work and craftsmanship from these talented British makers.

Whether you’re looking to treat yourself, purchase a unique gift for someone special or commission something for a special occasion, make a date to visit these two events.

CONTEMPORARY CRAFT FAIR AND JEWELLERY AND SILVERSMITHING FAIR AT WINCHESTER GUILDHALL Once again Craft In Focus will be staging a mixed discipline craft fair alongside its popular Desire Jewellery and Silversmithing Fair at the Guildhall in Winchester this year from 22-24 November making a visit even more worthwhile.

The Guildhall to allow visitors to view and purchase contemporary crafts such as scarves, home accessories, bags, furniture, woodwork, glasswork, clothing, artwork, hats, ceramics and giftware. This is in addition to the stunning collection of contemporary jewellery and stylish silversmithing work being exhibited within the Bapsy and King Charles Halls at The Guildhall.

Opening times for this year’s event are 12 noon – 6 pm on Friday and 10 am – 5 pm Saturday and Sunday. Admission is £5 which covers admission for both events.

The organisers of the Desire Fair will once again be using other rooms within

If you have not visited a Craft in Focus event, this will change your perception of ‘Craft Fairs’ entirely. Both these events will offer the public a calibre of exhibitor rarely seen at other fairs, offering a perfect opportunity to see

For further information contact the organisers on 01622 747 325 or visit the website at www.desirefair.com or www.craftinfocus.com Venue:The Guildhall, Broadway, High Street, Winchester, SO23 9GH

DAVINA'S - PERFECT PROM DRESSES! Young ladies of distinction this is the time of year to start making plans for your prom which will happen all too soon.

Davina's has a large selection of Mascara prom dresses ranging in size from 4 - 16; so all sizes and shapes are catered for.

This is the best time to visit Davina's as you will have the widest selection to choose from. Ask your dad or mum to bring you in to see what is available.

Davina's continues to be the leading Hampshire stockist of mother of the bride/groom outfits as well as high quality designer ladies' clothing, just right for those special occasions, cruises, investitures, or daily wear to the office.

No. 1 in Hampshire and Dorset for Mother of the Bride/Groom & quality label day wear

Party Time Again!

Tel: 01489 880900 or shop online at: www.davinasladiesfashion.co.uk

Come and visit Davina's and see the vast range available in three airy rooms.You will always be made welcome by Davina and her enthusiastic staff Louise, Hazel and Enola. Do take a look at the website to see the range of clothing available.

7 Warsash Road, Warsash, Southampton, SO31 9HW

Davina's is open from 10 - 5 every Monday to Saturday. It is located two doors away from Peter Nash Specialist Cars.There is unlimited free parking opposite.

Open Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm

Tel: 01489 880900 www.davinasladiesfashion.co.uk 7 Warsash Road,Warsash, SO31 9HW

RETAIL

MEON VALLEY'S ZERO WASTE REFILL STORE Visit our store for a range of hand-selected alternatives to everyday items that are locally sourced, plastic free, reusable, zero waste and vegan.

NEW INSTORE

Packaging-free food - bring your food containers to fill up with a wide range of pantry staples at affordable prices.

Refill your shampoo, shower gel, washing up liquid, laundry liquid and many other detergents at our large refill station - just bring your clean, empty non-food/drinks bottles.

TERRACYCLE COLLECTION POINT

We collect your empty crisp packets, snack wrappers, toothpaste tubes and much more.

Visit the website for more details.

allgoodthingseco.co.uk facebook.com/AllGoodThingsofWickham UNIT 16, SHEDFIELD EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, BOTLEY ROAD, SO32 2HN

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RETAIL

MARKET SQUARE

Boutique ME

Botley Mills

Labels Dress Agency

Joe Browns, Hennessey Longline Jacket Boutique ME, High Street, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1AA Tel: 01489 891052 | Boutique ME

Getting baking for winter!

Wright baking products now available at Botley Mills, Mill Hill, Botley, SO30 2GB Tel: 01489 772900 | www.botleymills.co.uk

Brand new Temperley dress, was £2,000, available from Labels at £695. The Old Forge, Brook St, Bishop's Waltham, SO32 1AX Tel: 01489 896515 | www.labelsdressagency.co.uk

WICKHAM JEWELLERY New Jewellery • Pre-owned Pieces Watches • Diamond Jewellery Remodelling / Redesigns Repairs • Gold Purchased

Wickham Jewellery

Wickham Jewellery

Wickham Jewellery

18ct yellow gold ruby and diamond - £2,500 Find us in Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

If you wish to buy or sell any of the above, please visit us at: Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

Chanel 18ct Diamond Earrings - £595 Find us in Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

Westlands Farm Shop

Wickham Jewellery

Glam & Grace Boutique

Now serving a Sunday Cavery from 12pm - 2pm. Westlands Farm, Pricketts Hill, Wickham, SO32 2JW Tel: 01329 833832 | www.westlandsfarmshop.co.uk

18ct White Gold, Diamond and Ruby ring - £3,295 Find us in Warwick Lane, Wickham, PO17 5JN Tel: 01329 836327 | Find us in Warwick Lane

Adini autumn winter pieces now in stock in fabulous styles.

Facebook & Instagram: Glamandgraceboutique Botley Mill, Mill Hill, Botley, SO30 2GB Tel: 07952 659227 | glamandgrace.co.uk/home

RETAIL

Andrew Smith & Son - Auctioneers

Moda Rosa

For all your Christmas needs, pop down to McCarthy's in Wickham.

Winchester Road, Wickham, PO17 5HE Tel: 01329 832221 | thefruitandvegbox.co.uk

Asian Arts, Fine Arts, Antiques, Decorative Interiors & Collectables Auction Wed 11 & Thur 12, General auction Fri 8th and Sat 23rd Nov Tel: 01962 735988 | www.andrewsmithandson.com

JoJo dress by Libélula. Come in and see our amazing selection of designer collections and occasionwear 35 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 733277 | www.modarosa.co.uk

Labels Dress Agency

Glam & Grace Boutique

Simon Lawson Jewellers

Alice Temperley dress brand new with tags - £295.

The Old Forge, Brook St, Bishop's Waltham, SO32 1AX Tel: 01489 896515 | www.labelsdressagency.co.uk

Up!Pants a Montreal brand of trousers with spanx style lining with incredible stretch which fit all shapes now in stock. Botley Mill, Mill Hill, Botley, SO30 2GB Tel: 07952 659227 | glamandgrace.co.uk/home

Stunning Sapphire and Diamond crescent design pendant - £2,450 60 High St, Bishop's Waltham, Southampton SO32 1AB Tel: 01489 895575 | simonlawsonjewellers.co.uk

Boutique ME

Simon Lawson Jewellers

Labels Dress Agency

Marble Winter 19 - Versatile Coat with removable arms and hood. Boutique ME, High Street, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1AA Tel: 01489 891052 | Boutique ME

18ct Impressive citrine /diamond /green savforite dress ring £1,950 60 High St, Bishop's Waltham, Southampton SO32 1AB Tel: 01489 895575 | simonlawsonjewellers.co.uk

Coach Handbag - £165.

The Old Forge, Brook St, Bishop's Waltham, SO32 1AX Tel: 01489 896515 | www.labelsdressagency.co.uk

MARKET SQUARE

McCarthy's Farm Shop

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PROFESSIONAL context, we now have a defence under the Modern Slavery Act (S.45). This protects exploited people, so if a young person has been manipulated to sell drugs on behalf of someone else, they may in fact have a valid defence in law to the charge.

HARRIET PARKER, SOLICITOR, ANSWERS THE TOP THREE QUESTIONS A CRIMINAL DEFENCE LAWYER IS ASKED Whether you are at the hairdressers or a dinner party, as soon as you are asked what you do for a living, you know there will be genuine intrigue surrounding the answer ”I’m a criminal defence solicitor”. I am frequently asked the following:

guilty, but wishes to plead not guilty, you have a duty not to mislead or lie to the Court and generally we have to withdraw from acting.

However, in my experience, many clients do accept guilt at an early stage and my job is then to represent them through the Criminal Justice Process from the police station to Court. Sometimes a client simply does not know if they are guilty or not because the law is so complex, so it is our job to go through this with them.

HOW CAN YOU REPRESENT SOMEONE IF YOU KNOW THEY ARE GUILTY? Much like doctors, solicitors have ethics to follow and if someone tells you that they are

SURELY THE CLIENT KNOWS IF THEY ARE GUILTY? This is a very common misconception.

Criminal law in one of the most complex areas of law in the English legal system.

There are often defences in law to someone committing an offence and many complexities to consider. To put this in

POLIO WEEK PROMPTS PURPLE CROCUS DISPLAYS IN FAREHAM

purple crocus in the Borough and the planting results in a constant reminder that polio is CLOSE to being eradicated but needs us all to be aware and continue the good work!

Firstly, what is polio: Poliomyelitis, or polio, is a paralysing and potentially fatal infectious disease caused by a virus which used to affect thousands of children around the world each year. It still threatens children in some parts of the world but can be prevented by immunisation of all children in an area – and Rotary is aiming for the whole world. Rotary, amongst others, assist with mass polio immunisation days in many countries providing children with their lifesaving polio immunising drops.When complete the little finger of each child is painted with PURPLE dye (hence those crocus colours!) so it is clear they have received the vaccine.

DR LYNDON PALMER PLANTING CROCUS

World Polio Day was on Thursday 24th October this year, when Rotary Clubs around the world held events and fundraisers to recognise the progress made in the global fight to end polio. The Rotary Club of Fareham has taken part with annual displays of beautiful

As Duncan Colin-Jones, from the Rotary Club of Fareham, says “Helping to get an immunisation programme under way, some of our members have previously travelled to affected countries in order to administer the vaccine to children. Preventing children from being permanently paralysed is so important that it is an aim that rightly remains close to our hearts. We are now so close to permanent eradication of this terrible infectious disease that we don’t want anyone to forget what still has to be done to achieve that.”

Communication about polio is vital as,

DOES IT MAKE SOMEONE LOOK GUILTY IF THEY HAVE A SOLICITOR? Again, this is a huge misconception. The mere presence of a solicitor does not mean that an individual is guilty. Whether it is at the police station stage or court proceedings, an individual should be entitled to know their legal rights. We advise on the strength and weaknesses of the evidence against them and how the process works. It can be very lonely facing an allegation and the presence of a good lawyer can make all the difference.

If you would like more information, or to pose a question for the Shentons’ lawyers to answer, please get in touch.

Tel: 01962 844544 www.shentons.co.uk Shentons Solicitors, Star Lane House, Staple Gardens, Winchester, SO23 9AD worryingly, there is an increase in cases this year.

As an example, in Pakistan last year, there were 8 cases of polio and this year there are 69. But what can we do so far away in Fareham you might ask? We want everyone to be aware and what better way to do that than to have a visual reminder through our purple crocus displays.

MIKE HURLEY WITH A STUDENT FROM FAREHAM COLLEGE PLANTING CROCUS BULBS

So keep a look out in the spring around the Fareham Borough, including the Sensory Garden in Osborn Road, the path past St Peter and St Paul church, and Fareham College, to see the beautiful purple crocus as a reminder that we should work together to get rid of polio for good.

Fareham Rotary Club: www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/homepage. php?ClubID=652

Bishop's Waltham Apricot Cottage, nestles enchantingly within the very heart of this vibrant and historic market town and is discreetly positioned in an oasis of walled and beautifully stocked gardens. The cottage itself is truly delightful and offers the perfect blend of space and charm, together with the appeal of being within a very desirable location just a short stroll to the high street. Properties of this calibre and location are rarely available and we would highly recommend early viewing and interest. EPC: E

Upham Extended family home set in the desirable and picturesque village of Upham. The property enjoys lovely views over fields to the rear and is just a short walk away from the village primary school. Spacious accommodation. Recently redecorated. On the ground floor there is a welcoming entrance hall, dining room and a large 21’ sitting room, which connects to the large conservatory. On the first floor there are four good sized bedrooms and a fifth, currently being used as a study. En-suite and family bathroom. Integral garage and double carport. EPC: E

Offices throughout Hampshire

01489 6

bishopswaltham@pearsons.com | 7 Cross Stree

Droxford An imposing and spacious Grade II listed Period family home within the heart of the village. Set in attractive walled gardens which extend to the side of the house incorporating parking/turning area courtyard, with covered car barn parking. Inside, the house enjoys lovely period proportions, features and atmosphere, along with inglenooks, fireplaces, cellar, an elegantly curved sweeping staircase and it’s own well! The house has great potential for some modernisation and is a wonderful opportunity for a new family to be able to enhance and personalise to their own requirements. EPC: E

Droxford Attractive, semi-detached home lying within the heart of Droxford Village. The property is set back within a courtyard style setting, which provides parking for two cars. The house has two double bedrooms, two bathrooms (one en-suite) and a ground floor cloakroom. Double aspect sitting room with French doors to the rear garden. Kitchen/dining room with French doors opening into the conservatory. Pretty, enclosed cottage garden to the rear.

Viewing recommended. EPC: C

660860

et, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1EZ | pearsons.com

SERVICE | MARKETING | EXPERIENCE

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CHURCH SERVICES Second Sunday 10.00 Family Service Thursdays 10.00 Spoken Communion

with Coffee after

Droxford St. Mary & All Saints

Bishop's Waltham Catholic Church of Our Lady Queen of Apostles

Sundays 09.30 Sunday Mass Saturdays 18.00 Evening Mass

St. Peter's

Sunday 3 08.00 BCP Communion 09.00 Parish Communion 09.15 Modern Worship in

Church Hall 16.00 Overflow in

Church Hall Sunday 10 08.00 BCP Communion 09.00 Breakfast in

Church Hall 10.50 Remembrance

Sunday Service 18.30 Evensong at Blessed

Mary Church, Upham Sunday 17 08.00 BCP Communion 09.15 Parish Communion 09.15 Modern Worship in

Church Hall Sunday 24 08.00 BCP Communion 09.15 Morning Worship 09.15 Modern Worship with

Communion in

Church Hall Everyday 08.45 Morning Prayer First & Third Thursday 10.00 Midweek Communion

followed by refreshments

Corhampton Saxon Church

Sunday 10 18.30 Remembrance Evensong Sunday 17 10.30 Matins Sunday 24 08.00 Holy Communion

Curdridge St Peters Church

Sundays 10.00 Communion Service

with Hymns and

Children's Activities

Sunday 3 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 10 10.50 Service of Remembrance Sunday 17 10.00 Informal All Age

Exton St. Peter & St. Paul

Sunday 3 18.30 Service for All Souls Sunday 10 15.30 Village Act of Remembrance Sunday 17 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 24 10.30 Holy Communion

East Meon All Saints'

Sunday 3 08.00 Holy Communion 10.30 Patronal Festival 18.00 All Souls' Sunday 10 08.00 Holy Communion 10.15 Service of Remembrance Sunday 17 08.00 Holy Communion 10.30 Parish Eucharist Sunday 24 08.00 Holy Communion 10.30 Parish Eucharist

Meonstoke St. Andrew's

Sunday 3 10.30 Holy Communion Sunday 10 08.00 Holy Communion 09.30 Village Act of Remembrance Sunday 24 09.30 All Age Service.. Unwrapped

Hambledon Methodist Church

Sunday 3 10.30 Morning Worship with

Children's Craft Activities Sunday 10 10.30 Morning Worship Sunday 17 10.30 Morning Worship with

Holy Communion Sunday 24 10.30 Morning Worship

St Peter & Paul

Sunday 3 09.15 Holy Communion 18.30 Remembering Loved Ones

Sunday 10 10.30 Remembrance Service 18.30 Requiem Communion Sunday 17 08.00 Holy Communion 18.30 Evensong Sunday 24 08.00 Holy Communion (BCP) 18.30 Holy Communion

Newtown Holy Trinity Church

Sunday 3 08.00 Holy Communion (BCP) 11.00 Morning Prayer Sunday 10 10.30 Remembrance Sunday Sunday 24 10.30 Stir-up Service

Shedfield St John the Baptist

Sunday 3 08.00 Holy Communion 10.00 Parish Communion Sunday 10 08.00 Holy Communion 10.45 Service of Remembrance Sunday 17 08.00 Holy Communion 10.00 Parish Communion 18.00 Sung Evensong Sunday 24 08.00 Holy Communion 10.00 Quiet Time

Shirrell Heath Methodist Church

Sunday 3 10.30 Morning Worship 18.00 Evening Worship with

Holy Communion Sunday 10 10.30 Morning Worship 18.00 Evening Worship Sunday 17 09.00 Breakfast followed by

All Age Worship 18.00 Evening Worship Sunday 24 10.30 Morning Worship with

Holy Communion 18.00 Evening Worship

Swanmore Methodist Church

Sunday 3 10.30 Rev Joseph Tembo

(Holy Communion) 18.00 Peter Castle Sunday 10 10.30 United Service at

St Barnabas 18.00 Kathy Elvy and Jill Letts Sunday 17 10.30 Richard Cole

(Junior Church -

Toy Service) 18.00 Rev Joseph Tembo

(Holy Communion) Sunday 24 10.30 Rev Bob Kitching 18.00 Graham Barber

Soberton St Peter's Church

Sunday 3 11.00 Family Communion with

ROCS (for all children) 18.00 Remembering Loved Ones Sunday 10 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 17 08.00 United Benefice

Holy Communion Sunday 27 10.30 United Benefice

Holy Communion

Upham Church of the Blessed Mary

Sunday 3 11.00 Parish Communion Sunday 10 11.00 Family Service 18.30 Choral Evensong Sunday 17 11.00 Parish Communion Sunday 24 11.00 Informal Service

with Communion

Waltham Chase Waltham Chase Methodist Church Sunday 3 09.30 Family Breakfast 10.00 Family Worship 11.00 Worship & Word Sunday 10 10.30 Morning Worship Sunday 17 10.30 Morning Worship Sunday 24 10.30 Morning Worship

Warnford Our Lady of Warnford Sunday 3 15.00 All Souls' Sunday 17 10.30 Service of the Word Sunday 24 09.00 Mattins

West Meon St John the Evangelist

Sunday 3 10.30 Parish Eucharist Sunday 10 10.45 Joint Remembrance Service

with Warnford Sunday 17 10.30 Service of the Word Sunday 24 10.30 Parish Eucharist

PROFESSIONAL

Animed

Veterinary Hospital & Equine Unit

Is your Pet a member of the Healthy Pet Club yet?

Would you like to save money?

The Horse Health Programme is a preventative healthcare plan saving you up to £150.

Our scheme is not an insurance - it is a monthly payment loyalty scheme that covers your pet for all preventative healthcare medicine including selected lifetime care medication.

We offer schemes for puppies and kittens, adult dogs and cats and rabbits

It is suitable for all horses, ponies and donkeys. Our competitively priced horse health plan includes more products and services than any other national scheme.

For just £10.99 per month, our health plan has been carefully designed with the cost conscious owner in mind.

So why not join now? Simply call 01329 833112 www.horsehealthprogramme.co.uk

Tel: 01329 833112 www.animedvets.co.uk ANIMED VETERINARY GROUP

SHEDFIELD

SO32 2JG

Our Private Client specialists can advise on: • Wills • Powers of Attorney • Deputyship • Tax Planning • Trusts • Probate and Estate Administration • Mental Capacity Issues Southampton Office - Tel: 02380 321000 The Pavilion, Botleigh Grange Business Park, Hedge End, Southampton, SO30 2AF

Winchester Office (by appointment only) Tel: 01962 670677

www.trethowans.com

Suite 4, 45 Southgate Street, Winchester, SO23 9EH

Offices also in Salisbury, Poole & Bournemouth

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FEATURE

HE'S A KEEPER © LUCIA FOSTER-FOUND 2019

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olting down a bacon sandwich, he’s stood in his kitchen by the rayburn.The setting of the 200 year old cob cottage, up a track and in a clearing in the woods is enviable, idyllic even. The golden thatch was recently renewed, it’s been re-plumbed and rewired – and there’s no shortage of logs for the woodburner in the beamy sitting room. It’s his home and he feels fortunate, but it’s not his house. It comes with his job. He’s a Keeper.

Mid September - first shoot day. Starting with partridge, moving onto pheasant late October - and there’ll be several shoots a fortnight from now until February. The culmination of the full-on seven days a week job nurturing the poults that arrived months before; feeding and protecting them from predation and disease. Coughing and ‘snicking’ means gapes, mustard coloured poo brings bad news of coccidiosis maybe, or hexameta – the list goes on. And on. Then there’s bad weather – and the Keeper, even with the greatest of care, can’t control that. Small wonder there’s a saying “The birds’ll die of everything before they’re shot.”

But he’s already been out on his quad at first, misty light; checking the birds, checking the numbered pegs in the fields for the guns to stand by, checking too that the landrover’s fuelled up and hitched to the beaters’ wagon. Also a stressful encounter with a walker who regularly lets his dog run through the woods away from any public footpath. A wayward pet can rid a drive of all the game - and the Guns, paying good money for their sport, won’t be impressed. And the estate owner will want to know why.

Gulping down his coffee, he tells his wife “I’ve tried explaining, but he treats the countryside like it’s some sort of quaint theme park for walking his cross-breed in.” On this of all mornings, she can only sympathise and wish him luck. After taking the kids to school she’ll be back to join the beaters later, with the sausage rolls and fruit cake she’s made for elevenses.

Checking the weather forecast, she prays the rain will hold off until after the last drive’s whistle blows.

Christmas Day.The cottage is in its festive finery of red-berried holly and variegated ivy. A fir tree from the estate sits in the corner of the sitting room and twinkles with lights. The shooting season in full swing,Yule offers no respite.The Keeper’s checked the feeders that morning – and after lunch there’ll be the usual dusk tour around the boundaries with his dogs, keeping the birds from straying. The Boxing Day shoot looms and

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although a less formal affair for the owner’s family and friends, the Keeper needs it to go well.

The ‘phone rings. Poachers have been spotted and it’s his duty to go and see what’s afoot, although he’s only just sat down with his family to their turkey dinner.

Turns out the gang in their pickup are coursing for hares with long dogs. The Keeper’s thankful that they’ve cleared off the estate before he arrives in his landrover. Must be the Christmas spirit, he smiles to himself, relieved. Returning to his lunch just in time for the Queen’s speech, he eats quickly to get out again before sunset.

February arrives in deep snow, but the game shooting’s over and the Keeper can ease up a bit once the season’s post mortem is done. The owner’s a decent bloke and they sit together in his study up at the big house, enjoying a very fine single malt and poring over the Game Book.

Like a salesman with targets to meet, it’s a numbers game and however convivial this may seem, a keeper is judged by his results. Each and every shoot day, the number of birds in the bag is recorded. At the end of season analysis, the number of birds released or ‘put down’ on the estate, versus the total number shot is calculated. The 45% return the Keeper’s achieved this season is better than average.What happened to the rest who didn’t end up in a game pie, casserole, or roasted and served with stuffing and bread sauce? Some will have wandered onto the roads, to be run over by motorists unwilling to slow down whilst the birds hop up onto the verge.

Some will have succumbed to disease. Others, neither quick nor wary enough, will have fed the foxes. Many more will strut around the fields in the Spring – the cock birds in their courting finery, gathering hens to their harem.

Verdict: it was a good season and everyone’s happy. The Keeper keeps his job and his home – he might even have a couple of weeks off to wind down from the hard work of the last eight months. Then there’s a long list of jobs to crack on with, not least a new pen for more birds. The owner’s so pleased that he’s expanding the shoot. More birds mean more shoot days.This gives more security for everyone; the game bird rearers, the caterers, the beaters and pickers up, the village pub and hotel – even the remote, local petrol station that’s largely kept going by the 4x4 trade.

More work and stress for him too. But this is the life he’s chosen and it’s not a bad one. He’s a Keeper..

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38

COMMUNITY

BISHOP'S WALTHAM COMMUNITY FIREWORKS

CHRISTMAS AT QUEEN ELIZABETH COUNTRY PARK Come along to the Park and join in the fun this festive season. Meet the head elf for decoration making in the workshop, then take the tractor ride up to the forest for a wonderful woodland trail. Finish off by heading back down to meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto.

SESSION DATES AND TIMES On Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th, Saturday 14 & Sunday 15th and Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd December. From 9.45am to 11.45am, 10.30am to 12.30pm, 11.15am to 1.15pm, 12.00pm to 2.00pm, 1.00pm to 3.00pm,

LISTEN VERY CAREFULLY – I SHALL ONLY SAY THIS ONCE.. ‘ALLO ‘ALLO COMES TO TITCHFIELD

Following on from the success of comedy shows such as Blackadder, Steptoe & Son and Rising Damp, Titchfield Festival Theatre welcomes to the stage ‘Allo ‘Allo this November.

‘Allo, ‘Allo was written by legendary comedy duo, Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft. Based on the iconic British television series that ran for seven seasons, this hugely popular comedy recounts the adventures of a hapless café owner, René Artois in occupied France.You can see all of your favourite TV characters in the flesh, including René’s tone-deaf wife Edith, Michelle of the Resistance and the Gestapo officer Herr Flick, in this not to be missed uproarious comedy.

1.45pm to 2.45pm or 2.30pm to 4.30pm Suitable for children 2 years & up. (Due to the activities in this event all children under 8 years require 1:1 adult supervision). Session lasts approximately 2 hours. Please wear suitable clothing as some of this activity takes place outside (e.g. wellingtons/water proofs).

Priced at £15.50 per child. (Adults are free).

Booking is essential. This activity is nonrefundable/ non-transferable. Please note parking charges apply.

For any questions about our activity please contact the Visitor Centre on 02392 595040, or visit www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/ countryparks/qecp The production is based on the TV series, specially adapted for the stage. Audiences will remember and love the humour from the original programmes, watched by millions in its heyday. Watch as the unlucky René gets involved in one absurd situation after another, including the hilarious scene when he tries to hide the painting The Fallen Madonna with the Big Boobies in some knockwurst sausages.

Kevin Fraser, Artistic Director of Titchfield Festival Theatre said, “’Allo ‘Allo is without doubt one of the best and funniest British TV comedies of all time. The cast have had a great deal of fun practising the French accents as well as rehearsing the many comical scenes.

However, like many of the best comedies, the story reflects a serious side of life; and of course the German occupation of France was no laughing matter.

Kevin continued, “Although ‘Allo ‘Allo was first broadcast way back in the early eighties, this is a show which will appeal to all ages – guaranteeing a couple of hours of laughs, slapstick humour and outrageously funny situations. We cannot wait for the show to start!”

‘Allo ‘Allo opens on Wednesday 6th November until Saturday 16th November 2019 at 7.30pm in the Oak Theatre, Titchfield Festival Theatre, St Margarets Lane, Titchfield PO14 4BG. Matinee performance: Sunday 10th November at 2.30pm.

For more information, please go to http:// titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com/or contact our Box Office on 01329 556156.

Organised by the Friends of Bishop's Waltham Junior School. At Hoe Road Recreation Ground, 6pm - 8pm on Saturday 9th November.

FRIENDS OF BISHOP'S WALTHAM JUNIOR SCHOOL (FOBS) FOBS is run by a committee of volunteer parents, as well as a teacher representative and our Head Teacher. The committee meet once or twice a term, and plan and run all the events. Many hours of organisation goes in to our fundraising efforts, and any help is greatly appreciated! www.bwjunior.hants.sch.uk/parents/fobs

BISHOP'S WALTHAM GARDENING CLUB TALK

Owing to the late cancellation of our planned Guest Speaker we are pleased to welcome back Gillian Taylor whose subject will be ‘For the Love of Roses'.

The story of becoming an admirer of Roses, now having around 200 varieties in her collection. The talk will discuss what roses are available, where to buy them, how to use them in various garden settings, their care and propagation and suggestions for plants to use with them in your borders. There will be a selection of plants for sale on the evening, all proceeds going to the gardener's charity ‘Perennial’.

At our usual venue… The Junior School Oak Road Ridgemede SO32 1EP; 7.30pm (doors open 7.15pm) Raffle, Refreshments, Club News.

Visitors (non-Members) £2: Members free.

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HOME FEATURE

RACHEL HUDSON WINS AT THE RURAL BUSINESS AWARDS

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llustrator, Rachel Hudson, from Four Marks in Hampshire, has won Best Rural Creative Business for the South East and Greater London region in the Rural Business Awards 2019/20, in partnership with Amazon.

Known for her distinctive and vibrant illustrations of wild places and wildlife on the move, Rachel is thrilled that her work is gaining wider recognition. “I create illustrations that aim to delight and inspire people to connect with the natural world. I am passionate about working with businesses and organisations to champion wildlife conservation and access to nature.”

Rachel works with many of the leading nature conservation organisations and publishers in the UK, including BBC Wildlife, the National Trust and The Wildlife Trusts. Rachel’s first book, 100 Endangered Species, will be published in autumn 2020. She regularly stages exhibitions of her illustrations in galleries across Hampshire and the South East and produces her own range of eco-friendly wildlifethemed greetings cards, fine art prints and giftware: rhudsonillustration.

Rachel is also closely involved with the local, rural community collaborating with other rural businesses, giving talks to local interest

groups and schools. She is a House Hero at Medstead Primary School, helping to keep art at the heart of their curriculum and inspiring future artists and environmentalists to care for and shape our future world.

ABOUT THE RURAL BUSINESS AWARDS: The Best Rural Creative Business Award aims to celebrate businesses that have their origin in creativity, skill and individual talent. The winning business has demonstrated commercial success from a rural base and developed creative work that embraces a rural theme. The winner produces creative work of exceptional quality, combined with a keen sense of business acumen.

Since 2014, The Rural Business Awards (RBAs) aim to give recognition to businesses operating across the rural sector, to acknowledge the breadth and depth of opportunity presented by the Great British countryside, as well as to celebrate the achievements of rural businesses, from engineering through to artisan food producers and professional services organisations.

The 10 award categories, including Best Creative Business, are decided by an independent panel of judges drawn from the rural business sector, official agencies and rural charitable organisations.

Finalists face the National RBAs at The Monastery in Manchester, in February 2020. rachelhudsonillustration.com

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HOME COMMUNITY

50 YEARS OF FAREHAM PROBUS

MEON VALLEY LIONS CLUB: NOVEMBER NEWS THE TASTE OF WICKHAM BRINGS OUT THE CROWDS! Our BBQ kit was given another good workout this year at the annual Taste of Wickham event, which was celebrating its sixth year. As previously, we teamed up with Tull’s the local Wickham butcher (now known as the Meon Valley Butcher), setting up our BBQ stall right outside the shop.

We started early, whipping up early-morning bacon butties for the village team and stallholders. As the day progressed and the crowds began to fill the square, we turned to cooking the more familiar sausages and burgers; the pace rarely slackened and by midafternoon we ran out of food. We’ve done the sums and thanks to the generous support of the Meon Valley Butcher and the support of the local community we have cleared over £1,400 for charity. Thanks to everyone or their support.

GIVING A HELPING HAND… We’ve had a busy few weeks helping those with need in the Meon Valley. Working with Team Hybrid in Knowle, a specialist wheelchair was purchased for a young lady with mobility issues. She feels it will make a big difference to her ability to enjoy the outdoors and improve her independence.

We were contacted to help two struggling families with young children, both dealing with a mini crisis. One was struggling with a broken fridge and the other a broken washing machine, neither items were economical to repair and neither family had the means to replace the items making life more difficult.

We were happy to step in a get replacements so life could return to normal.

From time to time we get requests from local youths (Scouts and Guides) to assist with funding worthwhile trips. This year we helped towards costs for a Scout to go to the World Scout Jamboree and next year are supporting two Scouts going on an expedition to Tanzania who will be doing volunteer work to help modernise a school and a Bishops Waltham Guide who has been selected to attend next year’s European Jamboree in Poland.

In addition to raising money for local people, we like to help other organisations and this month some of us turned out marshal the 90+ Solent Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, which unites classic and vintage style motorcycle riders all over the world to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health – A damp but enjoyable day out.

A BIG THANK YOU FOR GENEROUS DONATIONS We’d like to say a special thank you to the Resident’s Association at Upper House Court in Wickham who made a generous donation of £184 and a resident who donated a further £100.

KEEP YOUR EYES OUT FOR SANTA AND HIS SHINY NEW SLEIGH! Can it be that it’s nearly Christmas already?

Yes – and the Lions are well into planning the annual tour of the Meon Valley villages with Santa and his Sleigh. Santa’s helpers have been extra busy building him a shiny new sleigh ready for this year’s fun!

Santa and the Lions will be out and about throughout the month of December, with visits to all the villages from East and West Meon at the top of the valley, to Wickham, Boarhunt and Knowle at the bottom. He’ll also be on duty on the Saturday mornings running up to Christmas at Wickham Square, Bishops Waltham High Street and Swanmore Village Store and across to Denmead.

The full Santa sleigh schedule has now been published on the special Santa page or our website. We raised over £4,500 last year – let’s see if with your help, we can surpass that this time! www.meonvalleylionsclub.org.uk

How do you celebrate a big birthday? Well, with lots of friends and a cake of course! And that’s exactly how Fareham Probus Club celebrated its 50th Anniversary at Cams Hall Golf Club this week.

Over 70 members and guests assembled with the Mayor of Fareham, Cllr Pamela Bryant, for a sumptuous lunch at which its ‘sister club’ Fareham Meon Probus Club came along to share the event with wives and partners. The lunch was followed by a talk on a favourite subject too – flowers and gardens - by the coordinator of the tremendously successful annual Fareham in Bloom competition and programme, Matt Wakefield.

Matt gave a really interesting insight from behind the scenes on the development of the ‘Bloom’ programme in Fareham over the past 24 years culminating in so many Gold awards for entries all around the Borough. The Mayor joined Club President,Ted Sanderson, in cutting the birthday cake which was served to all the guests in true ‘birthday party’ style and, just to continue the floral theme, every lady guest was presented with a single yellow rose adorned with a ‘Probus’ blue ribbon.

As President Ted Sanderson was to remark “This has been a wonderful celebration of 50 years of Fareham Probus Club and demonstrates that the fellowship it provides ensures that it will continue for at least another 50 years!”

Probus (derived from Professional and Business) is a world-wide organisation offering an opportunity to continue friendship and social activity for former male business associates entering retirement who enjoy a monthly meetup for lunch and learn more of life in their community from a variety of visiting speakers.

Fareham Probus Club is always ready to give a warm welcome for new friends to join by contacting any member or contact the Secretary, George Cantrill, by email on: gacantrill@virginmedia.com

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FUND RAISING FOR A WORTHY CAUSE

WHAT'S ON AT TITCHFIELD FESTIVAL THEATRE? ‘ALLO ‘ALLO 6 - 16 November 2019 The Oak Theatre, 73 St Margarets Lane, Titchfield, PO14 4BG Classic wartime comedy with a little French twist. Allo, Allo written by Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft. Based on the iconic British television series that ran for seven seasons, this hugely popular comedy relates the adventures of a hapless cafe owner, Rene, in occupied France.You can see all of your favourite TV characters in the flesh, including Rene’s tonedeaf wife Edith, Michelle of the Resistance and the Gestapo officer Herr Flick in this not to be missed uproarious comedy.

SHERLOCK GOES BACK TO SCHOOL 22 - 23 November 2019 The Acorn Studio Theatre, 73 St Margarets Lane, Titchfield, PO14 4BG. Can Sherlock, a Netflix superstar, resolve the meanest of crimes? A series of false leads and tightlipped witnesses make Sherlock Holmes’ quest even more difficult – set in a modern boarding school this is an updated version by local writer Janette Evans, specially written for TYT. THE SILVER TASSIE 25 - 30 November 2019 The Acorn Studio Theatre, 73 St Margarets Lane, Titchfield, PO14 4BG O’casey’s tumultous play assault on the brutalising impact of war.

When a war injury leaves young Irishman Harry Heegan wheelchair-bound and paralysed, he returns to his old football club for a party in his honour. Harry’s previous victory is bittersweet – awarded the Silver Tassie for a game he can no longer play.

Harry’s return from the trenches to a ‘normal’ life no longer seems like much of a life at all… Sean O’Casey’s anti-war play from 1928 uses wit and satirical humour to express a powerful message.

Tickets for any performance: T: 01329 556156 E: info@titchfieldfestivaltheatre

I have thought long and hard about crowdfunding as it doesn't always sit easily with me. However when I see people trying to raise money for their ingrowing toenail or a holiday they didn't work for and probably don't deserve, Freddies plight seems a fairly legitimate reason for using this platform.

FREDDIE’S STORY In November 2016 I called an ambulance for Freddie, thinking he had a really bad bout of gastroenteritis. It all got very bad very quickly once he was in hospital, where he was diagnosed with duodenal cancer.We were in shock, he had not been ill and was even working on the previous day. He was lucky that it was diagnosed quickly, because it is a very rare cancer and normally, by the time it is detected, it is too late to do anything. He spent five horrific weeks at our local hospital with a tube inserted; seeing it go up his nose and into his stomach was absolutely horrendous.

During his entire stay, I pushed every day for the Whipple procedure, which I knew was his only chance. Finally, on the 29th December, he was transferred to Kings College Hospital in London, he weighed just 8 stone at this point.

On the morning of the 30th they took him for surgery, he was so weak that I genuinely didn’t think he would make it through. Eight and a half hours later and he was in intensive care.

The care that he received at Kings was exemplary and the kindness of all the medical staff was overwhelming. I eventually brought him home in the middle of January 2017, still very thin and quite weak, but gaining strength every day. It was a long road then to get him well enough to withstand adjuvant chemotherapy. He began a course of Oxyplatin, which is very strong and made him very poorly, he managed seven cycles, but then just couldn’t take any more.

We continued with routine scans and in December 2017 were given the wonderful news that he was cancer free. Unfortunately, this was not the case. On the 14th of May 2018 we attended, what we assumed would be, another routine appointment with our local oncology department.We saw a registrar, not Freddie’s consultant, her opening greeting was not hello,

it was just “it’s not good news I’m afraid”. He was offered palliative chemotherapy and given 12 months. I cannot even begin to put into words how we felt walking out of that room.

The following day, I knew it was time to start pushing for more, but didn’t know what.

After hours of searching online, I came across Oncalogica , who offer the Oncofocus test, which determines cancer mutations and possible treatments. I contacted them and they have been a godsend. Professor Gareth Williams called me and we spoke for over an hour about Freddie’s diagnosis and treatment to date. Freddie started the clinical trial at the end of August 2018, going every 14 days for an immunotherapy trial drug. He was doing brilliantly, feeling well and the main tumours were shrinking, albeit by very small amounts.

In April 2019, after another routine scan, it was found that the cancer had jumped and was now growing outside acceptable growth parameters for the trial and he was taken off treatment.We were disappointed, because he was so well, but we always knew the treatment was at the behest of the drug company funding the trial.

We were then back under the excellent care of Paul Ross and his team at Guys in London, but he was struggling. At the beginning of August Freddie deteriorated rapidly, the tumour in his liver blocked his bile duct causing toxins and bilirubin to accumulate, causing severe jaundice.

On the 20th August a routine appointment at Guys Hospital turned into an emergency admission. After two weeks with a drain in his liver they managed a PTC procedure, putting a stent in allowing the toxins to drain internally.

His levels still need to drop more to even consider him for treatment but we are hopeful.

If we can get the jaundice under control, we have options for more treatment, including off label drugs that the NHS won’t prescribe, but they are expensive.

We have been put in touch with a doctor from the Leiden University in Holland, who has suggested two forms of immunotherapy, which given together could be extremely effective for Freddie.These drugs are already licensed in the UK, but not, so far, for Freddie’s cancer.

It’s another way the NHS restrict new drugs unfortunately, despite possible relief and even curing other cancers.

These drugs are licenced in Europe and the protocol is already set up, so he could start treatment very quickly, but again, these are expensive each dose is between three and five thousand and that is before any clinical administration fees, blood tests and scans.

For more information please visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/helenhicks?utm_term=mAYeZ3xn3 Written by Helen Hicks

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FOOD & DRINK

36 ON THE QUAY LISTED IN MICHELIN GUIDE

“BISHOP’S WALTHAM BITERS” ENJOYING THEIR TASTERS OUTSIDE GROVER BUTCHERS. PHOTO BY GABOR KOVACS

ANOTHER SELL- OUT TASTING EVENT FOR BISHOP’S WALTHAM Once again local food lovers had the chance to sample the delights of Bishop’s Waltham’s eateries and food shops at the 7th Bishop’s Waltham Bites event on 5th October 2019.

Tickets sold out well in advance of the day itself and the event received great praise from those who took part. They were treated to local cheeses and a selection of sweet and savoury snacks and cakes; homemade chutneys and jams with crackers and biscuits; a mini-picnic box, delicious pulled brisket, pasta dish and gazpacho; smashed smoked salmon and olives on fresh tomato and bruschetta served with prosecco; Cornish orchard sausage roll, piccalilli and smoked salmon roulé and last but not least, the choice of either lamb pie and mash or vegetable chilli with corn chips and grated cheese, washed down with a choice of pink gin, chocolate mint gin or prosecco.

All 8 Bite providers pulled out the stops to ensure that visitors to Bishop’s Waltham could taste the best of what the town offers. They were The Southern Co-op, Stainers Bakery, Grover Butchers, Giorgios Mediterranean Restaurant, Any Fish, The Barleycorn Inn, The Crown Inn and the Bishop’s Waltham Country Market.

Luckily the rain held off adding to the festive atmosphere in the town centre, and participants enthused about the value for money and variety and quality of food on offer at the event.

Caroline and Gabor Kovacs, from Swanmore were highly complementary about the event.

“This is the third time we have been … said Caroline “and after each time we have told friends from outlying villages about it and they have come along too. The word is spreading way beyond Bishop’s Waltham itself ”.

Gabor, a keen amateur photographer and a member of the Bishop’s Waltham Photographic Society said “it was great

that this event coincided with the Annual Exhibition of the Photographic Society at the Uniting Church, as it meant that between Bites people had the opportunity to pop in to the Exhibition and view some of the excellent photography displayed by members of the club”.

THE OWNERS OF ANY FISH WITH THE TASTERS THEY OFFERED. PHOTO BY GABOR KOVACS

Emsworth's 36 on the Quay has been included in the list of the 23 Michelin guiderecommended Hampshire restaurants for 2019.

The word 'unique' is often misused, but not here. Owners Gary and Martyna Pearce focus on giving diners an experience that is better and different every time; the antithesis of the big brand restaurant chains. Chef Gary and Martyna, who leads front of house head a team which they refer to as 'family', and the spirit of kinship shows up in every detail at the restaurant.

The Michelin list accolade comes at a time when the team is planning further improvements to the business, which attracts guests from all over the world.

"I've worked here for about 9 years," says Gary, 'and we took the business over from its previous owners in the last two years. We are passionate about making people's time with us a wonderful experience and we dedicate ourselves to improving every single day."

Praise for the event didn’t stop with the participants. Barry Nicolson, part owner of Giorgio’s and Chairman of the Chamber of Trade said “it is such a good village event which attracts regulars and newcomers alike.

It is great to welcome people into our outlets for the first time and to have this opportunity to give them a flavour of what we offer. The benefit reaches non-food retailers in the town too. They tell us that footfall is always greater in their shops on Bishop’s Waltham Bites days.”

Bishop’s Waltham Bites is organized by the Bishop’s Waltham Town Team. It is supported financially by The Southern Coop, and tasters are provided at no cost by the participating outlets. Some of the proceeds will be donated to The Bishop’s Waltham Youth Club, with the rest of it being put towards a repeat of KidSTreat in summer 2020, a very successful event for children first run by the Town Team in 2018.

The restaurant, which has four rooms and is located on the picturesque Emsworth waterside, is currently working on an improved website and signage, and on getting the word out to people who want to be surprised and delighted by something new when they lunch or dine out.

www.lovebishopswaltham.com

Call 01243 375592 for bookings at 36 on the Quay. www.36onthequay.co.uk

Find us

Westlands Farm, Pricketts Hill, Wickham, SO32 2JW Swanmore A32

Bishop's Waltham

Waltham Chase

A3 2

Shedfield

To Titchfield

Wickham

Farm Shop Open Mon - Sat: 8am - 5pm Sun: 9am - 4pm

Tea Room Open

Make this years Christmas Dinner something really special!

Try a local free range bronze turkey, traditionally cured gammon or matured free range beef.

Buy direct from the farm for excellent value for money, quality and service.

Phone today with your Christmas order 01329 833832 Stuck for Christmas ideas? What about Christmas vouchers, which can be spent in the Farm Shop, Tea Room or Butchery

Mon - Sun: 9am - 4pm Last orders 15 minutes before closing

Tel: 01329 833832 www.westlandsfarmshop.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

BOWTELL’S EVENT CATERING Bowtell’s Event Catering is a family run business set in the heart of Hampshire between Alton and Petersfield. Established for over 20 years, they started out cooking BBQ food at Hampshire Farmers’ Markets and private parties and now cater for all types of occasions.

They produce beautiful bespoke food whether it be for a private dinner party right through to your wedding for as many as 200 guests.

They offer the full service from start to finish and all aspects of your wedding or event can be taken care of. They use their own home grown meats from the farm as well as supporting many small local artisan producers from New Forest Smoked Trout right through to salads and fresh fruit from Selborne. All dietary requirements can be catered for whether it be gluten free, vegetarian or vegan. They can even supply you with your local fizz!

So, if you have an event, big or small please give them a call and see what they can offer you. We are sure you won’t be disappointed.

Contact details: www.bowtellseventcatering.co.uk E: toby@bowtelleseventcatering.co.uk T: 01420 588481 or 07966 270002

CHRISTMAS MENU - TWO COURSES £19.95 THREE COURSES £23.95 STARTERS

MAINS

DESSERTS

SMOKED SALMON CURED IN ORANGE, FENNEL & DILL, SERVED WITH BEETROOT POWDER & FENNEL SHAVINGS FINISHED WITH A CITRUS SAUCE & SALMON CAVIAR (GF)

TRADITIONAL ROAST TURKEY, SERVED WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS (GF OPTION)

CHRISTMAS PUDDING, SERVED WITH BRANDY CREAM (V)

LAMB SHANK COOKED IN MINT & ROSEMARY GRAVY, SERVED WITH ROASTED NEW POTATOES, GREEN BEANS & A TRIO OF HONEY ROASTED CHANTENAY CARROTS WITH RED ONION (GF)

MULLED WINE POACHED PEAR, SERVED COLD WITH A TRIO OF MELON BALLS, ORANGE SEGMENTS & CUSTARD (V,GF)

HAKE EN PAPILLOTE, SERVED WITH CRUSHED NEW POTATOES, TENDERSTEM BROCCOLI & PARSLEY CREAM SAUCE (GF)

FOUR LAYER CHOCOLATE FUDGE CAKE, SERVED WARM WITH CREAM (V)

WENSLEYDALE CHEESE, LEEK & CLOTTED CREAM TART WITH WILD CRANBERRIES, SERVED WITH ROAST POTATOES, SPROUTS, MASHED SWEED, GREEN BEANS, A TRIO OF HONEY ROASTED CHANTENAY CARROTS WITH RED ONION & GRAVY (V,GF)

RED VELVET CHEESECAKE, SERVED WITH VANILLA ICE CREAM (V)

PHEASANT BREAST, SERVED ON A BED OF RICE & TENDERSTEM BROCCOLI WITH A WILD MUSHROOM STROGANOFF SAUCE (GF)

SELECTION OF TEAS OR FRESHLY GROUND COFFEE (FROM £2.50)

CREAM OF ROASTED PARSNIP & HONEY SOUP, GARNISHED WITH CURRIED PARSNIP SHAVINGS & SERVED WITH CIABATTA (V,GF) DUCK & ORANGE PATE, SERVED WITH SALAD GARNISH, RED ONION CHUTNEY & MELBA TOAST (GF OPTION) BREADED BRIE WEDGE, SERVED WITH CRANBERRY SAUCE ON A BED OF MIXED LEAVES (V)

CHEESE BOARD, SERVED WITH CHUTNEY, BISCUITS, CELERY AND GRAPES (V) (ADDITIONAL £1.50)

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT US RISINGSUNSWANMORE.CO.UK - THERISINGSUNSWANMORE@HOTMAIL.COM - 01489 896663

NOW OPEN ALL DAY, EVERY DAY FOR FOOD & DRINK

THE CROWN INN BISHOP'S WALTHAM

BOOK NOW FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY Any bookings made by 31st October 2019 for a Christmas party in December will receive a complimentary glass of prosecco for all of their guests!

CELEBRATING EARLY? Book a Christmas party for 3rd, 4th, 10th or 11th December TO ENJOY A 20% DISCOUNT. Call our Christmas coordinators, Rhian or Sarah direct on 01489 893350 or email crown.bishopswaltham@fullers.co.uk to make your booking with us.

t: 01489 893350 e: crown.bishopswaltham@fullers.co.uk w: crowninnbishopswaltham.co.uk THE CROWN INN, THE SQUARE, BISHOP'S WALTHAM, SO32 1AF

BRAMSDON & CHILDS SO L I C I TO R S Established 1878

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We believe each individual client should have a full qualified and dedicated lawyer handling their case.

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Now open in Bishops Waltham We are excited to announce our new office in Bishops Waltham.

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t: 01489 888240 e: hr@bramsdonandchilds.com w: bramsdonandchilds.com