Test Valley Forum Issue 140 - February

TEST VALLEY

FORUM

REACHING 18,750 READERS* TEST VALLEY TOWNS & VILLAGES ISSUE 140 • FEBRUARY 2020

FEATURES The Love of Mistletoe Literary Lunches at PIttleworth Manor Launch of Test Valley Borough of Culture 2020

NEWS & EVENTS Upcoming Events at Farleigh School Tree Planting Reaches New Heights Stockbridge Community Cinema

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

STOCKBRIDGE

A very attractive shop in the centre of the High Street

Ground floor retail area 1165 sq ft (108 sq m) with kitchen facilities and access to gardens.

The flat is approached through a separate entrance to the side of the property. First floor: kitchen, sitting room, bedroom with en-suite bathroom. Second floor: bedroom and bathroom. Outside: gardens.

RENT/PRICE ON APPLICATION - TO LET OR MAY SELL

GOODWORTH CLATFORD

GOODWORTH CLATFORD

A beautifully crafted new house with superb specification

A detached barn style cottage situated within the Conservation Area in the heart of the village

Kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, sitting room, dining room. Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2 bedrooms, family bathroom. Landscaped garden, large loggia area, office and garden store.

Entrance hall, open plan sitting room/dining area, kitchen, 2 double bedrooms one with en-suite bathroom, one with en-suite shower room. Gas fired central heating.

Courtyard and terraced garden. Garden sheds. Parking

PRICE GUIDE : ÂŁ760,000

PRICE GUIDE: ÂŁ325,000

www.myddeltonmajor.co.uk

Tel: 01264 316000

14 TEST VALLEY FORUM

ISSUE 140 / FEBRUARY 2020 04 What's On

Local events in the Test Valley 06 Home Trades, services, designers.

All you need for your home 08 Church Services

Local Church Services for

the month ahead

12 Culture The diverse theatre, music, arts and crafts of Hampshire 14 Literary Lunches

At Pittleworth Manor 18 The Love of Mistletoe

By Simon Cooper 17 Garden

Make your garden dream come true,

or visit local, beautiful country gardens 18 Wellbeing

Looking after your health

and yourself!

18

22 Education

Find local schools and

educational experts

24

MARCH COPY DEADLINE FEBRUARY 17th The Test 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 Test 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 Test 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 Š Forum Publications Ltd, 2020

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.

4

WHAT'S ON?

One of Britain’s best loved artists regarded himself as a failure, because that was how is snobbish and disapproving mother saw him.

Doors Open at 7pm; Film show commences at 7.30 pm. Tickets £5.00 in advance from Beryl Lawrence on 01264 860618 E-mail: dlaw@davidlawrenceassociates.co.uk Or £6.00 on the door (if available). Tea/ Coffee and biscuits included in price.

Wine, Beer and Choc Ices on sale. At Chilbolton Village Hall.

VIC (01794) 512987 or online at: www. plazatheatre.com

Monday 17

Half Term Family Dancing Fun & Yoga

FEBRUARY Saturday 1

Stockbridge Antiques Fair The Fair is held in Stockbridge Town Hall in the centre of the High Street. We offer a wide range of Decorative, Interesting and Unusual items including good quality Furniture, Silver, Jewellery, Militaria, Motor memorabilia, Textiles and Books. We will also buy. Free Admission & Free Parking.

Open: 9.30am - 5.00pm. Contacts: Carol - 01264 335769 / 07870 432805 Steve - 01722 712267 / 07915 663251

Saturday 1 - Sunday 2

English National Badminton Championships 2020 The English National Badminton Championships returns to Winchester. Watch the elite of English badminton battle it out to be England’s number one. With the Olympic Games being held in Tokyo 2020 the action will be even more competitive in this vital year. The Westgate Badminton Centre allows spectators to get up close to the action in this intimate arena, watch the athletes smash the shuttle at over 250 kpm.

Tuesday 4

Stockbridge Amateur Dramatic Society's Curtain Calls Come and be entertained by readings and performances from plays, poems and novels based around the theme of 'Love and all that' Tuesday 4th February at 7.30pm, Stockbridge Town Hall.You don’t have to be a member of SADS to come along, (but we’d love it if you’d join!) We’re always looking for new blood to act, direct and to be part of the backstage team.

No experience necessary! email: stockbridgeamdrams@gmail.com or find us on Facebook

Friday 7

Film Showing: Mrs. Lowry & Son (PG) Starring Vanessa Redgrave and Timothy Spall.

4.30pm Dancing Fun 5.00pm Yoga – bring your own Yoga Mat! Drop in: £7 each. £12 Dance & Yoga Special rate for siblings and grown-ups FREE! Enjoy some great Dancing Fun & Games as a Family with cool Latin American Rhythms & Current Charts followed by fabulous "Feelgood Yoga" for everyone! Our Half Term Dancing Fun & Yoga Event is always very popular, so book your places now!

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook. com/events/454615441902092/ At Winchester Discovery Centre SO23 8SB

Wednesday 19

Half Term Family Fun at Winchester Cathedral Pick up a themed trail from the Entrance Desk and explore the Cathedral, followed by craft activities. Free on entry to the Cathedral – admission is free for under 16s. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Thursday 20

Weyhill Electronic Organ Society: Andrew Varley in Concert 7.30pm (doors 7pm) at Fairground Hall, Weyhill, Andover, SP11 0QN. An evening of melodic, easy listening music, with a festive flavour - performed on electronic keyboard.

Tickets £5 in advance, from Just Teasin, 40 Bridge Street, Andover - or £6 at the door. a WEOS promotion. Information: 01264 323213. Website: www.weyhill-eos.co.uk

Friday 21

The History of Chilbolton Airfield 8pm at Wherwell Village Hall, Church Street, SP11 7JJ. An illustrated talk to Wherwell History Group by Alan Crisp. Admission £4, includes tea or coffee & biscuits. Guests welcome. Further information from 01264 860560 or wherwellhistory@gmail.com

Saturday 29

Romsey Male Voice Choir in Concert 7.30pm at Plaza Theatre, Romsey "We're back with the usual mix of songs to suit all tastes". Special guest: soprano Nancy Longland. Tickets £11 available from Romsey

Saturday 29

Moscow Drug Club: Transcendent Troubadours of Gypsy Cabaret & Swing 7.30pm at Upper Clatford Memorial Hall.

The Moscow Drug Club is a curious musical place where elements of 1930’s Berlin Cabaret, Hot Club de France, French Musette and storytelling meet. Tickets: £15 from The Clatfords' Village Store, The Crook & Shears PH, Greenfield Farmshop and online from www.upperclatfordvillagehall.co.uk For more information call 01264 336808

MARCH Saturday 8

Dementia UK Time for a Cuppa Stockbridge Town Hall, Sunday 8 March 11am – 3pm. Dementia UK believes no family should have to face dementia alone. Please come along for a cup of tea and a slice of cake or two to help raise funds for much needed Admiral Nurses.

There will also be a raffle and a chance to win a very special Time for a Cuppa cake to take home. The event is FREE and tickets are available through https://www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/time-for-a-cuppa-for-dementia-uktickets-89577718367 or at the door on the day. If you would like to make and donate a cake for the event or provide a raffle prize please contact Sue Brisco: 07718 395214 suebvolunteerambassadorduk@ gmail.com

Thursday 19

Weyhill Electronic Organ Society: Paul Carman in Concert 7.30pm (doors 7pm) at Fairground Hall, Weyhill, Andover, SP11 0QN. An evening of melodic, easy listening music, with a festive flavour - performed on electronic keyboard.

Tickets £5 in advance, from Just Teasin, 40 Bridge Street, Andover - or £6 at the door. a WEOS promotion. Information: 01264 323213. Website: www.weyhill-eos.co.uk

% 30 ON OFF TAKEN

ERS ORD URING Y D R RUA FEB

Before Makeover

After Makeover

Make your OLD kitchen a NEW kitchen for a fraction of the cost of buying a new kitchen

Happy Kitchens completely renovated our kitchen, transformed two wardrobes and built us a lovely cupboard in our storage room. Ben was really enthusiastic during our initial consultations and extremely helpful with assisting us with our choices. He was also very accommodating when we changed our minds on a couple of elements during the process.

Dan, our main fitter, could not have been more professional, flexible or helpful when we had a couple of small niggles, all of which were resolved with a smile – an absolute star! The other fitters who worked with Dan were all very courteous and hard-working. The key thing we recognised is their desire to make the customer happy – Job well done!

Thank you Ben, Dan and James.

Mr Wyatt, Winchester

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

6

CO MMUNITY

HOME

STOCKBRIDGE COMMUNITY CINEMA - FEBRUARY FILMS

FRIDAY 14 FEBRUARY CAPERNAUM (15) After running away from his negligent parents, committing a violent crime and being sentenced to five years in jail, a hardened, streetwise 12-year-old Lebanese boy sues his parents in protest at the life they have given him. Winner of the 2018 Grand Jury prize at Cannes [In Arabic with English subtitles] Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall SO20 6HE at 7.30pm. Tickets £5.00 from Garden Inn and John Robinson in Stockbridge or online via our website www. stockbridgecinema.org.uk

SPRING MEDITATIONS AT WHERWELL CHURCH

WEDNESDAY 19 FEBRUARY DOWNTON ABBEY (PG) The Crawleys and their intrepid staff prepare for the most important moment of their lives. A royal visit from the King and Queen of England unleashes scandal, romance and intrigue that leaves the future of Downton hanging in the balance.

We are very pleased to announce a new series of meditations for Spring 2020. This season, we are commencing on 1 March with, appropriately, St David himself! We follow up with two other really interesting characters.

We do hope you will be interested.

Each meditation will be held at 6pm in the church and last for around thirty minutes, and will be followed by refreshments.

1 MARCH 2020 St David, Patron Saint of Wales, AD 500 – AD 589

Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall SO20 6HE at 4.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets £5.00 from Garden Inn and John Robinson in Stockbridge or online via our website www. stockbridgecinema.org.uk

5 APRIL 2020 William Tyndale, scholar, reformer, translator into English of the Bible, AD 1494 – AD 1536 3 MAY 2020 Maximilian Kolbe, Polish Franciscan friar and martyr, AD 1894 - ca AD 1941

Tel: 01264 362378 Tel: 07771 347135 www.mooresmaintenance.co.uk • info@mooresmaintenance.co.uk

Built-in, handpainted furniture & storage Bookcases, Wardrobes, Kitchens, Media Units, Shelves Etc FREE design & quote

Test Valley Joinery Call Mark on: 07961 979429 or 01794 301728 www.testvalleyjoinery.co.uk

PEAK ELECTRICS

Electrical contractor Chilbolton

Domestic & light commercial electrician New installations ~ alterations ~ repairs testing ~ inspection ~ certification

01264 861484 07850 213800

steve@peakelectrics.co.uk www.peakelectrics.co.uk

Aerial, Satellite, A.V & Security One Degree West is a leading provider of - TV Aerial Installations & Repairs - Sky & FreeSat Installations - FM & DAB Radio Installations - Multi-room Audio Installations (Sonos) - Wall Mounted TV Installation Service - Smart Homes

One Degree West can also keep your business secure - Access Control, Door Entry Systems

- Burglar Alarm Installations - CCTV Systems

For a friendly and professional service, get in touch today Andover: 01264 934824 Winchester: 01962 920022 Salisbury: 01722 480018 Romsey: 01794 230048 www.onedegreewest.tv

IMAGE COURTESY OF JOHN SALMON

8

CHURCH SERVICES

Sunday 9 10.30 Morning Worship Sunday 16 10.30 Morning Worship 15.00 Messy Church Sunday 23 10.30 Morning Worship

Leckford

St Nicholas

Sunday 2 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 16 18.00 Evensong

Abbotts Ann St. Mary's

Sunday 2 09.30 Morning Worship Sunday 9 09.30 Holy Communion Sunday 16 08.00 Said Communion 09.30 Morning Worship Sunday 23 09.30 Family Service at

War Memorial Hall

Bossington St. James

Sunday 9 09.30 Parish Communion Sunday 23 18.00 Meditation

Broughton St. Mary's

Sunday 2 09.30 Parish Communion Sunday 9 08.00 Holy Communion 09.30 The Bible Uncovered Sunday 16 09.30 Parish Communion Sunday 23 08.00 Holy Communion 09.30 Family Service Christingle

Chilbolton

St. Mary the Less

Sunday 2 10.00 Family Communion Sunday 9 10.00 Family Service

Sunday 16 10.00 Morning Prayer Sunday 23 16.00 Benefice Evensong

Crawley

St. Mary's

Sunday 9 10.00 Morning Worship Sunday 16 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 23 10.00 4th Sunday Worship

with Sunday School

Goodworth Clatford St Peter's

Sunday 2 08.00 Said Communion 11.00 Family Service Sunday 9 11.00 Morning Worship Sunday 16 11.00 Matins Sunday 23 11.00 Holy Communion

Houghton

All Saint's Church

Sunday 9 18.00 Evensong Sunday 23 09.30 Parish Communion

King's Somborne Methodist Church

Sunday 2 10.30 Holy Communion

Littleton

St. Catherine's

Sunday 2 16.00 CafĂŠ Church in

Church Room Sunday 9 10.00 Family Communion Sunday 16 10.00 Morning Worship 18.00 Peace & Wholeness Sunday 23 10.00 Family Communion

Longstock St. Mary

Sunday 9 09.30 Plough Service Sunday 16 09.30 All Age Worship Sunday 23 09.30 Parish Communion

Mottisfont

Stockbridge Old St. Peter

Sunday 16 08.00 Said Holy Communion

Stockbridge St. Peter

Sunday 2 11.00 All Age Service Sunday 9 11.00 Parish Communion Sunday 16 11.00 Matins Sunday 23 11.00 Parish Communion

Stockbridge

St. Thomas More (Catholic) Every Sunday 09.00 Mass

Upper Clatford All Saints

Sunday 2 09.30 Holy Communion Sunday 12 08.00 Said Communion 09.30 Family Service Sunday 16 09.30 Holy Communion Sunday 23 09.30 Morning Worship

St. Andrew's

Sunday 9 11.00 Messy Church Sunday 16 09.30 Parish Communion Sunday 23 11.00 Parish Communion

Sparsholt

St. Stephen's

Sunday 2 08.00 Holy Communion Sunday 9 10.00 Joint Service led

by Sparsholt School Sunday 16 10.00 Matins

Wherwell

St. Peter & Holy Cross Sunday 2 10.00 Morning Prayer Sunday 9 18.00 Benefice Evensong

(Please contact the

Benefice Office on

01962 880 845 for

details of venue) Sunday 16 10.00 Family Service Sunday 23 08.00 Holy Communion

us Clean Carpets

onable prices, and courteous friendly SUPER-FAST 15 MINUTES DRYING om people you can trust in your home

Forum

l residents

ur carpets king for an pany who e, will be and above

ed to take the three ue, high upholstery e offering onth o give to know d out how sh and ill look shened by ple.

Very reasonable Winner prices, and courteous friendly service from people you can trust in your home.

The Carpet Care People

Our approach is simple: We are proud to run a celebrated professional carpet and upholstery cleaning business, and we insist on providing you with good oldfashioned service and value.

Call now and find out why our award-winning service is probably the most requested Have anyinthree carpet cleaning the oflocal Stockbridgeyour areacarpets cleaned The next thing you to do for 01962 justfor £87690 total!005 is call us on we’ll welcome your call, answer your questions and take care of everything for you.

Upholstery

Deal 2

Tel 01962 690 005 Have your three piece suite freshened up for just £97!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a selection of frequently asked questions especially for you sceptics (you know who you are).

1. When you say ‘carpet’ what do you mean? We mean average size areas, say 10x12ft ish. But we don’t quibble if the areas are a little larger - it’s all done on fairness really. 2. Do you move furniture?

Our pricing policy reflects timecarpets it takes to clean working around furniture, rather than moving it.

Have anythe three That said, we are for example, happy to move your three piece suite backwards and forwards cleaning and your three under it and replacing it back into piece position. What we don’t price into the job at these discount prices is moving large pieces of freshened furniture likeup bookcases, sideboards or wardrobes. Similarly we are not insured suite for to move electrical items, in particular flat-screen tvs. Again we apply common sense and fairness to the just £167! situation and inevitable we do end up moving some furniture around, even at these discount prices. 3.

Are there any ‘hidden’ extra costs? The prices quoted above are fully-inclusive and are the actual prices you will pay.

Deal 3

Carpet Price

2

£77

FULL OFFER PRICE LIST 1 £47

2 £67

Deal 3:

we specialise in cleaning and refreshing 3 piece suites (at our current offer price of £97).

Fabric Master, our special upholstery and cleaning system is safe, gentle, and very effective. Fibres are restored to their original beauty and softness you’ll see!

Carpet Price Carpet

Tel: 01962 690 005 or 07790 883507 Carpet Price

Deal 2:

Have any 3 carpets and your 3 piece suite freshened up for just £177!

Deal 1

Price Full Offer Price List Carpet 1 £57

Carpet Price

Deal 1:

Have any three of your carpets cleaned for just £97 total!

Have your 3 piece suite freshened up for just £97!

Fabulous Clean Carpets, Upholstery and Curtains 3 Great Deals!

of the st trusted ompanies l, nearets for a mal cost

3 Great Deals!

SUPER-FAST 15 MINUTES DRYING

Carpet Price

3 £87

Carpet Price

4 £107

Carpet Price

5 £127

3

£97

4

Price

£117

Carpet

5

Price

£137

HOME

9

10

COMMUNITY

HOME

SALISBURY HOSPICE CHARITY’S TREE-MENDOUS SUCCESS!

In a wonderful display of community cohesion, volunteers from across the region proved a force for good, not only raising vital funds for the Hospice but also helping to save our planet!

Last year’s Christmas Tree Collection saw teams pick up and recycle 600 trees. This year, the charity is delighted to announce that their amazing volunteers helped them collect and recycle over 1,000 trees for the hospice raising an incredible £13,392!

The scheme, which is run in conjunction with their charity partner Just Helping, expanded the collection area to include all SP1 – SP6 postcodes. As part of the initiative,

the charity will donate of 10% (after costs) to the local charity Love For Louis. In addition, the collection helps the environment as all of the trees are chipped and recycled as animal bedding on a local farm or turned into compost.

STOCKBRIDGE MUSIC: THE BROMPTON STRING QUARTET

Once the trees were collected, half were chipped by Ockenden Tree Services, Mark Walsh Tree Surgeon and Stump Grinders and recycled at Rose Farm, Hurdcott. The other half will be turned into compost at Newbourne Farm Composting.

They are coming to Stockbridge Town Hall on Friday 20th March, 7.30pm.

Salisbury Hospice Charity would like to thank all of the above, their wonderful community volunteers, along with: UDrive, Public Health England, TSB, Neil Smith Builder and Breeze Environmental, Nationwide, HSBC, Donald Capewell, R Moulding, The Stones Hotel, Pizza Hut, Serve On Salisbury, iTEC, Step Associates, and Wessex Fleet.

The fantastic Brompton String Quartet from The Royal College of Music is comprised of musicians from the UK, Austria & Slovenia. Formed in 2018 they were winners at the St Martin in the Fields Chamber Music Competition in 2019.

PROGRAMME Beethoven String Quartet Op. 95 Schubert String Quartet No. 14 in D Minor (Death of a Maiden) Panufnic: Memories of my Father Tickets: £15 available from: John Robinson, Butchers www.jumblebee.co.uk/stockbridgemusic The Lights Theatre Box Office (01264 368368), Roger Tym, The Old Manse, High Street, Stockbridge (01264 810363) www.stockbridgemusic.uk

Your Local SELF STORAGE EXPERTS

 Friendly, Professional; reliable and tidy  Completely safe, gentle cleaning system  No fumes, no mess, no bother  Removes grease, fat and burnt on carbon deposits from: • Ovens • Filters • Hobs • Grills • BBQs • Ranges • Extractors • Microwaves • AGAs

Call today to book your spring clean T: 0800 840 7127 • M: 07528 524769 www.ovenclean.com

• Hassle free 24/7 unlimited access • Secure with alarm & CCTV • Range of unit sizes • Commercial or Private use • Convenient location • Short or long term • Undercover unloading • Friendly & family run

Tiebridge Farm, North Houghton SO20 6LQ www.barn-store.co.uk

stockbridge@barn-store.co.uk

Call Tara Lisa 01264 316 166

D

DON S DOORS

GARAGE DOOR SOLUTIONS We supply and install all leading manufacturers of garage doors and in a wide selection of styles

Call 02380 600027 to arrange a free no obligation survey and quote Unit 9 & 10, Vicarage Farm Business Park, Winchester Road, Fair Oak, Eastleigh, SO50 7HD sales@donsgaragedoors.co.uk • www.donsgaragedoors.co.uk

12

CULTURE

NOTES FROM A BOOKSELLER: FEBRUARY For the third year in a row, the number of independent bookshops in the UK and Ireland has grown.This is exciting, reassuring and positive news for book lovers and retailers alike, and particularly for a small independent, such as us here at The Bookmark.We know, from our own growing band of regular supporters and customers, and from our healthy Christmas sales, that we are appreciated.

The shoppers visiting Stockbridge High Street love to come in to smell the distinctive aroma of fresh print, to browse, and to interact with knowledgeable, friendly staff. According to the leading business magazine for the book industry,The Bookseller, this rise in independents is “testament to the challenging circumstances”, not least of which is competition from online retailers.We value all the more our loyal friends and customers, who count us as their first port of call in their book buying ventures.

The turn of a new year is always a time of reflection and looking back, alongside planning for the future and moving ahead.

One thing we’ve learned is that our natural history and country pursuits section is very popular. Indeed, the top five authors of this genre in 2019 were always in stock on our shelves and consistently sold well. Raynor Winn’s The Salt Path, her memoir of homelessness and walking the Cornish coast path, continues to be in demand - as does Isabella Tree’s Wilding, her tale of how she and her husband took their Sussex estate back to nature.

Robert Macfarlane’s back catalogue had a resurgence of interest alongside the publication of his masterful new title, Underland, and Greta Thunberg’s little book, moves off the shelf as consistently as the ticking of a clock.

The wonderful, illustrated BBC TV tie-in to the successful Seven Worlds, One Planet series, was will undoubtedly no doubt continue it’s Christmas popularity to become a stalwart of our shelves throughout 2020 and beyond.

The biggest surprise of last year had to be the huge success of The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy - the “breakout star” of Christmas sales. No sooner was our generous pile of this sensitive, simple story replenished, than we were ordering more, and then more again.With its glorious illustrations, it too will surely continue in popularity, as this collection of characters is definitely for life, not just for Christmas.

2019 saw our crime and thriller shelves busy with sales of John Le Carre, Mick Herron and Tana French amongst many others and in 2020 we can look out for the latest Harry Hole thriller by Jo Nesbo, called Knife.

Kicking off general fiction in 2020 is acclaimed author Isabel Allende with her new book, A Long Petal of the Sea. Later in the new year comes the next in series from Ali Smith, Summer, a new title from Marion Keyes, Grown Ups, and a debut novel in paperback, by Ben Smith called Doggerland. In March the much-awaited final volume in Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall trilogy,The Mirror and the Light will arrive on our shelves.

Better known as a children’s author, Eoin Colfer debuts his first novel for adults, Highfire, while children from the age of ten, can look forward to a challenging but sensitively written book from a favourite, Michael Rosen, called Missing.

In addition,The Bookmark is taking part in the ’Test Valley Year of Culture’, and the ‘Stockbridge Town of Culture’ during 2020 by sponsoring at least two literary events. One will be a panel of authors and screenwriters talking about the process of adapting a book into film, and another will be a writing workshop for local aspiring writers, led by local, already successful writers in our area. Stay tuned for further details!

So all in all a lot to look forward to in the upcoming months, and we look forward to welcoming you back after our holiday break.

Remember,The Bookmark will have Winter Hours until Easter: Tuesday-Saturday we will be open 11AM – 4PM

The Crown Inn is a traditional cottage style village pub, modernised to give that restaurant feel you can expect to find in some of the best pubs hidden away in the English countryside.

Our Food

Using the best produce available, we link you directly to the small scale artisan producers. In terms of style, you’ll find clean rustic dishes which combine the classic French with modern rustic.

NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR VALENTINES DAY Tel: 01264 736044 www.crownupton.co.uk THE CROWN INN, UPTON, SP11 0JS

CULTURE

NEW SPRING TITLES Arriving all the time, and we don't want to miss you!

WINTER OPENING HOURS

ADVERTISING OFFER ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE FOR AS LITTLE AS £45 PER MONTH

TUESDAY – SATURDAY 11am – 4pm, until April 14, 2020

(PLUS VAT, MINIMUM 12 MONTH BOOKING FOR PRICE SHOWN)

For more information

01962 735137

stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON Tel: 01264 811529 www.thebookmarkstockbridge.co.uk

Broughton Talks and the Broughton Community Archive Group present the film of a magnificent episode of our local history

THE

SECRET SPITFIRES

HIGH STREET, STOCKBRIDGE, SO20 6EX

In 1940, the Germans succeed in destroying the Spitfire factories in Southampton. But unknown to them, the British decide to build Spitfires in secret.

Rural Towns and cities in South of England become a major centre for manufacturing Spitfires, hidden in sheds, garages, back gardens, a bus depots and even a hotel. Unskilled young girls, boys, women, elderly men and a handful of engineers, built thousands of Spitfires.

WEDNESDAY 19TH FEBRUARY - 7.30PM Doors open and drinks from 7pm.

Entrance £5 to include a drink.

No booking necessary.

A TRUE STORY OF ORDINARY PEOPLE DOING EXTRAORDINARY THINGS

Film (75 mins), a short talk by the producer, and an introduction to the new Broughton Heritage group.

13

14

FEATURE

LITERARY LUNCHES

AT PITTLEWORTH MANOR

I

s there ever a better time of year than this for hibernating with books? C. S. Lewis famously observed that you could not get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit him. I would probably add a large fluffy duvet to this image for total perfection but life is drifting a little from this ideal at present.The reason that there was no literary lunch at Pittleworth in January is that Husband and I decided that this was to be the month when we finally got the house organised: one more big push and the war on chaos will be over. (I believe that the top brass said something very similar in about 1917.) Shelves are going up everywhere and books are being removed from every flat surface — window sills, the fireplace, under the bed — and rehomed. I can imagine houses without books but never a home.

novels: especially that interesting term,The Master of the House.This is going to be fun! The self-respecting heroine may well be on the lookout for a Fitzwilliam Darcy, ‘the best landlord, and the best master … that ever lived’ but novels also offer us male country house owners who are murderers, sadists, philistines and sometimes endearingly potty (The Pursuit of Love’s Uncle Matthew will be making an appearance).These characters’ personalities are magnified by their positions but just how much power do they have and why do so many of them feel so menaced by the houses they live in?

All this chaos and fresh paint is focusing the mind wonderfully on the subject of the next literary lunch, ‘Creating the Literary Country House’, where we will be looking at architecture and interior design within country-house novels. Novelists who create large and complex country houses must, perforce, engage with architecture and interior design to create these memorable places and, with so many creative disciplines overlapping, some interesting things are bound to happen. I have a lot of Edith Wharton to read between now and then but particularly look forward to discussing her last novel The Buccaneers (partly filmed, of course, at Houghton Lodge).

Then, in July, in a departure from the literary lunch norm at Pittleworth, we will move locations to the river bank and have a day devoted to the literature of the English river. Mill on the Floss,Three Men in a Boat and The Water Babies and, naturally, The Wind in the Willows will all be up for discussion. Ratty may believe that there is “nothing … half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats” but for me it has to be messing about with books. Do come and join us.There will be no ‘set reading’ but there will be good books, good conversation and good food.

Who knows? There might even be good weather …

Last year, in literary lunches, we looked at the roles of women and children in the country house, clearly it was time men got a look in, so in April we will be looking at the role of the gentleman in country house

For more information, please contact Dr Esther Fernandez-Llorente Tel: 01794 301268 www.pittleworthmanor.co.uk

As the weather improves and the roses start to make an appearance (I type this in stygian January in a spirit of imaginative optimism) we shall turn to the subject of country house gardens in novels. Perhaps, finally, we will get to sit out in the garden with a glass of Pimms. It has to be The Secret Garden, doesn’t it? And Mansfield Park; I can promise locked gates, rolling lawns and (of course) blood-red rhododendrons and, speaking of blood, a couple of rather nasty murders involving sanded paths and a lot of rose bushes …

01794 301268

Pittleworth Manor, a Tudor manor house, Stockbridge

05/06/2020

The Secret Gardens of Country House Novels A lot of literary action takes place in the gardens of country houses and the contrast between the formality of the ‘big house’ and the garden can be particularly charged. For adults and children alike it can be a place of concealment, relaxation and drama. The garden allows us, literally and figuratively, to see the country house from another angle. These literary places are ripe for exploring.

Novels to consider include: Jane Austen’s Mansfield Park, Frances Hodgson-Burnett, The Secret Garden, Christianna Brand’s Suddenly at his Residence, Ian McEwen’s Atonement

28/02/2020

Creating the Country House: Architecture and Interior Design in Novels Creating a really memorable country house in a novel can turn novelists into architects and interior designers without limits on their budget or imagination: and with some very strange briefs! We will look at the layouts and interiors of some of the most famous country houses in literature and discuss some of the ideas and locations that inspired novelists to create some of the most famous houses in England.

Novels to consider include: Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey, Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca, George Eliot’s Mr Gilfil’s Love Story, Alan Hollinghurst’s The Stranger’s Child

24/04/2020

Houses and Heroes: The Masters of the Country House in Novels Just who are the masters of some of literature’s great country houses?

They run the gamut from ideal romantic hero to languid sadist, bumbling skinflint to desperate bigamist. What do novels have to say about the strange role that these heroes, villains and buffoons inhabit? What is the the true cost of that role to the characters?

Novels to consider include: Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, George Eliot’s Daniel Deronda, Nancy Mitford’s Love in a Cold Climate, Sarah Waters’s The Little Stranger

24/07/2020

Running Through Literature: the River in the Novel A literary day by the River Test The theme of the river runs through English novels with effects ranging from the comic to the tragic. We can discuss their myriad uses by novelists and also how literary rivers allow authors to engage with issues such as science and politics; pollution, evolution, tourism and religion are just some of the issues covered in the novels we shall be looking at. Of course, two of the following authors fished on the River Test …

Novels to consider include: George Eliot’s The Mill on the Floss, Jerome K. Jerome’ s Three Men in a Boat, Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows, Charles Kingsley’s The Water Babies

www.pittleworthmanor.co.uk

16

ER

CULTURE

LAUNCH OF TEST VALLEY 2020 BOROUGH OF CULTURE A launch event for Test Valley 2020 Borough of Culture was attended by over 80 people on Thursday 16th January at The Grosvenor Hotel in Stockbridge.Test Valley 2020 is a year long festival which celebrates the people, places, culture and heritage of the region. Organised by Test Valley Arts Foundation, the festival is helping to promote the wide variety of arts and cultural activities already taking place in Test Valley, whilst also supporting the creation of new events.

The launch event was attended by representatives from the Borough and County Councils including Mayor of Test Valley, Martin Hatley, Local Artists and Cultural Organisations and local media and business sponsors.

Guests enjoyed musical entertainment from Broughton band China Wolf www.chinawolf.co.uk and and a brass quintet provided by Michelmersh Silver Band. www.msband.co.uk Yinnon Ezra, chair of Trustees for Test Valley Arts Foundation gave a short speech in which he expanded on the reasons behind the Borough of Culture festival stating that “The Creative Industries are one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK economy.We want to support and promote creativity in this predominantly rural region. Inspiring and influencing creative growth and enjoyment.”

To find out about Test Valley 2020’s free publicity and support for your event, or to see what’s on visit www.testvalley2020.org. Photograph above shows Martin Hatley, Mayor of Test Valley & Yinnon Ezra MBE, Chair of Test Valley Arts Foundation.

N F I N E A RT AUCT I O N E E R S & VA L UE RS

FINE ART, ASIAN ART, ANTIQUES, DECORATIVE INTERIORS & COLLECTABLES

Wednesday 5th February Commencing 10am Viewing: Thurs 30th Jan 12pm – 5pm, Fri 31st Jan 10am - 5pm, Sat 1st Feb 10am - 2pm, Mon 3rd Feb 10am – 5pm and sale mornings from 8.30am

MONTHLY ANTIQUES & INTERIORS GENERAL SALE

Saturday 22nd February Commencing 10am Viewing: Fri 21st Feb 10pm – 7pm and sale morning from 8.30am

Illustrated catalogues available to view online at www.the-saleroom.com www.andrewsmithandson.com Enquiries: t:01962 735988 e:auctions@andrewsmithandson.com THE AUCTION ROOMS, MANOR FARM, ITCHEN STOKE, ALRESFORD SO24 0QT

take part In test valley’s bIGGEST CELEBRATION OF ART, HERITAGE & CULTURE

BOROUGH OF CULTURE

2o2o

Test Valley Arts Foundation is proud to present a year long festival of events, led by and for the community.

From exhibitions and workshops to performances, fetes and competitions. Find out what’s on and how to take part or register your event TESTVALLEY2020.ORG Test Valley Arts Foundation has been in existence for 27 years with its mission being to make art available and accessible to everyone. To find out more about us please go to TESTVALLEYARTS.ORG

FFOO R UMM RU PU A TTI IOONN SS PU BBLLIICC A

FORUM P U B L I C AT I O N S

TESTVALLEY2020.ORG

TESTVALLEY2020

2o2

TLUC FO

CULTURE

by Janette Evans

By Johnny O’Hanlon

12–22 FEB 2020 @ 7.30PM & 16 @ 2.30PM. NO PERF 17 FEB

Wuthering Heights

24–29 FEB 2020 @ 7.30PM

WORD OF MOUTH

S>E>D

Adapted by Charly Armstrong

4–14 MAR 2020 @ 7.30PM & 8 @ 2.30PM. NO PERF 9 MAR

23–28 MAR 2020 @ 7.30PM

www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com • 03336663366

One of ITV's Most Popular Antiques Experts Happy to arrange home calls by appointment karendalmeny@gmail.com For enquiries please call:

07712 545 700 Karen Dalmeny

BEST CASH PRICES Karen Dalmeny PAID FOR:

Gold & Silver Jewellery & Antiques

Including: Watches, medals, bronzes, oriental ceramics, quality antiques, house clearance/insurance valuations

17

18

FEATURE

THE LOVE OF MISTLETOE WORDS BY SIMON COOPER

There are many tall poplars that grow along the margins of the water meadows in the Test valley south of Stockbridge; they are remnants of the British match industry. Long ago matchmakers would pay landowners around these parts to grow these water loving trees on otherwise unproductive patches of damp land.

But that was half a century ago. The promise of cash-for-trees is as long forgotten as the souls who planted them. Today they continue to grow, becoming taller, but with no corresponding increase in utility, with each passing year. For poplar is not a sought-after wood. So, upwards they reach until some storm slays them or the landowner swallows the cost of felling. However, just lately they do seem to have acquired a new friend. Mistletoe.

Mistletoe in not traditionally a plant of southern England, its recent(ish) arrival from the Welsh/English border something of a mystery. But arrive it has and trees that once stood bare in winter are now bedecked with large, green baubles that stand out as oddities against the skyline. But why is this parasite, part of the folklore of love, now here? Will it hasten the demise of its hosts before the storms or chainsaws? How does it take hold, with apparent ease, in places it never existed before?

Mistletoe seeds, properly called drupes, are generally thought to be spread by birds who eat them and then 'deposit' them on branches where they stick tight with a sort of glue that envelops each drupe. It is a rural myth that mistletoe requires cut or rough bark to take hold.

In fact, what it needs is smooth, healthy bark into which it grows a sort of root that will eventually tap into the sap of the poplar. At this point, two to three years after germination, the mistletoe becomes a full parasite relying on its host tree as it starts to grow exponentially with each passing year as each stem bifurcates, or divides into two, to create a slowly growing ball of green stems and leaves.

My photo doesn't really do justice to the height of the poplars at Timsbury, so by association the size of mistletoe clumps, but having squinted up the height of three or four average houses I'd say the bigger ones are the size of a space hopper. Now I'm no expert on mistletoe but I'm guessing that this puts them in the 15-20 year age bracket which explains why we see them today but would not have seen them in the past for the poplars would have been matchsticks long before the mistletoe took hold.

EURASIAN BLACKCAP And therein probably lies part of the answer for the increasing frequency of mistletoe. Poplars, the second most popular host tree behind the apple, are living longer. And the longer they live the larger the mistletoe balls become, producing an ever-larger crop of the white berries each winter. But strangely most birds don't like these white berries which they digest in thirty minutes, excreting the drupe minus the vital glue. Birds generally prefer red, orange, black or blue, with mistletoe being the only native British plant species with white berries.

Step forward the Blackcap, a summer visitor from Germany. This little bird, a bit smaller than our native House sparrow, has the knack with drupes whereby they only swallow the berry skin and pulp, wiping each sticky seed off their beak onto a convenient branch, before swallowing. Ah, but I hear you say they are summer birds and the drupes require winter distribution. But, like many birds, the Blackcaps are no longer making their winter migration preferring to stay with us. So, they eat more drupes. Distribute them more widely. And in turn more mistletoe grows. And the Blackcaps have even less reason to return to Germany.

I am not sure whether this is what you might classify as a virtuous circle, but it certainly demonstrates, for good or ill, the happenchance, speed and ease of evolution.

Simon Cooper is the Founder and Managing Director of Fishing Breaks, leading chalkstream fishing specialists. He is also author of best-selling books Life of a Chalkstream and The Otters’Tale published

by William Collins. His next book Frankel: the greatest racehorse to ever live is published in May. www.fishingbreaks.co.uk

GARDEN

FIONA MERRION

TRADITIONAL GARDENING

Paddock Perfection

Maintaining Hampshire's Paddocks to Perfection

07594 443 618 * * * * *

Grass Cutting * Harrowing, Seeding & Fertilising Hay Making, Baling * Hedge Trimming Topping, Rolling * Scrub Clearance & Excavation Ploughing, Rotavating * Reseeding Grass Cutting * Direct Drilling

Single-handed gardener with many years experience looking after large gardens. Looking to take on a client for 1 or 2 days work per week.

I CAN PROVIDE

Traditional Gardening Methods • Pruning • Trimming Grass Cutting • Lawn Care & Maintenance Cutting of Plants at Suitable Times Ecoligist Can Advise on Wildlife

FOR MORE INFORMATION

T: 07508 256102 T: 07977 403365

RICHARD PENFOLD FIREWOOD SUPPLIER

Seasoned mixed species of hardwood logs available in various load sizes and log lengths. I produce all my own firewood sourced from thinning and coppicing operations in FSC controlled sustainable local woodlands.

My logs are naturally dried and stored in adapted barns for low moisture content and are always delivered dry. Firewood available all year round.

PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL SERVICE

Tel: 01794 389603 or Mob: 079000 61158 RICHARD PENFOLD

ADVERTISING OFFER ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE FOR AS LITTLE AS £45 PER MONTH

(PLUS VAT, MINIMUM 12 MONTH BOOKING FOR PRICE SHOWN)

For more information

01962 735137

stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

Supply and planting large specimen trees and shrubs Espalier, pleached and instant impact hedges All trees and shrubs carefully selected Design, landscaping and ongoing maintenance Free site visit and consultation Bosque is a trading name of Just Limegrass Ltd. Harko: 07710 502798 Tom: 07855 656984 www.bosque international.co.uk

19

20

WELLBEING of light are delivered to the area being treated via the IPL hand piece.The light penetrates the tissue, is absorbed by the damaged cells and then the body’s natural processes removes the injured tissue giving the skin a more even and youthful appearance.

AWARD WINNING LOCAL BEAUTY THERAPIST, DORTHE THOMAS, GIVES US THE LOWDOWN ON INTENSE PULSED LIGHT (IPL) AND CRYOTHERAPY. Winter is the ideal time to use advanced MediSpa treatments to remove unwanted hair and treat skin imperfections like sun spots, warts and thread veins. Skin can’t be treated using these methods within at least four weeks of sun exposure so now is the time to act if you want to be hair and blemish free in time for summer.

WHAT IS IPL? IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, and is a form of light therapy, used for various dermatological procedures. IPL Specialist Dorthe has been using it in her salon for many years to effectively treat numerous skin conditions such as acne and thread veins as well as hair removal.

“IPL for skin rejuvenation allow us to customise treatments for different skin tones and conditions without the need for downtime associated with surgery or other intense skin procedures,” explains Dorthe. Precise pulses

Our Award Winning treatments include your everyday beauty and wellbeing essentials; Facials, Waxing, Threading, Massage, Reflexology, Eyelash Extensions, Manicures, Pedicures and Spray Tan. We also specialise in advanced MediSpa treatments; IPL Hair Removal & Skin Rejuvenation, Dermaplaning, Medik8 Skin Peels, Derma Pen, Microblading, Lip Filler, Tattoo Removal, Vit B12 Injections, Profhilo, LipoContrast, Plasma Pen, Micro Needling & Cryotherapy

In the case of hair removal, IPL works by emitting a wavelength through the skin, which targets pigment. "It works in the same way black clothing absorbs heat on a hot day, versus white clothing which reflects it," says Dorthe. "The light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair. It quickly turns to heat which then kills the growing cells that make the hair. A course of IPL treatments are a tried and tested approach for hair removal, but be aware that IPL practitioners are not regulated anymore, so do your research before you book, use an experienced clinic and always have a patch test,” recommends Dorthe.

WHAT ABOUT CRYOTHERAPY? Cryotherapy has been used in medicine for many years for the treatment of skin tags, age spots, warts, verucas, milia and cherry angiomas. Dorthe explains “we use CryoPen™, an advanced cryotherapy innovation that is a fast, effective and safe solution for the removal of skin imperfections.

Procedures typically last less than a minute so you can be in and out of the salon very quickly”.The CryoPen™ emits a fine jet of nitrous oxide under high pressure, which allows Dorthe to work with millimetre precision.This destroys the tissue by freezing the inter-cellular fluid, forming ice shards and crystals which rupture the membrane, thereby destroying the cell.That means there will be no collateral damage to healthy tissue. It’s incredibly accurate and practical.

Dorthe is offering 20% off IPL and CryoPen appointments this February on presentation of this article. Call 01264 748300 or email info@dorthethomasspa.com to find out more. www.dorthethomasspa.com

WELLB EING

STOCKBRIDGE OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE

Osteopathy and Cranial Osteopathy Emma Wightman, registered osteopath and antenatal teacher. A gentle, hands on approach for newborns through to adulthood and in pregnancy.

Also Massage Therapy Pilates, 1 to 1 and small group Homeopathy Naturopathy Online Bookings available for Osteopathy and Massage via the website

Tel: 01264 810028 www.the-SOP.com reception@the-SOP.com STOCKBRIDGE OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE - HIGH STREET, STOCKBRIDGE, SO20 6HF

THE HUB New equipment, increased range of services and more availability, all wrapped up in beautiful new packaging. …………… …………...

Come and see what all the fuss is about by becoming a patient.

www.river.dental 01264 810818 kingfisher@river.dental River Dental, 1 Clarendon Terrace, High St, Stockbridge, Hampshire, SO20 6EY

21

22

MOTORING EDUCATION can help pupils to achieve success in that specific situation.

The character of each superhero was introduced through a series of outdoor challenges during an HPL day. Pupils worked together to cross a swamp in order to develop an understanding of meta-thinking, used their linking skills to navigate the amazing maze and built a paper mountain by thinking creatively, fluently and flexibly.

HIGH-PERFORMING SUPERHEROES LEAD THE WAY AT ST SWITHUN’S PREP SCHOOL. Staff at St Swithun’s Prep School have invented a compelling way to transform young children into High Performance Learners. The school, in Winchester, has created five superhero characters to bring its High Performance Learning (HPL) philosophy to life.

HPL, which is embedded across the curriculum and all areas of school life, systematically teaches each child the skills and behaviours that enable them

to achieve the best they can during their time at school and equips them to succeed in the next stage of their education. The philosophy recognises that all children have the potential for high performance, regardless of ability.

Each of the school’s superheroes represents one of the Advanced Cognitive Performance characteristics which form the backbone of the HPL philosophy: meta-thinking, linking, analysing, creating and realising.

Dressed in vivid costumes, each of the superheroes makes regular appearances in assembly, at school plays and in various other school activities to demonstrate how his or her particular superpower

The HPL superheroes and their characteristics appear on posters around the school and are the basis of the house points rewards system. As the language and ethos of HPL become part of the fabric of the school, there has been a significant impact on the students’ awareness and understanding of their own learning. They are able to make connections to prior knowledge and identify the value in reflection, practice and collaboration. Pupils recognise that learning is made up of lots of different skills that all need developing – it is not just about ‘knowing’ the right answer. www.stswithuns.com

24

EDUCATION February, 10.30am-12.30pm in the Sports Hall at Farleigh School, Red Rice, Andover, SP11 7PW.

UPCOMING NEWS & EVENTS AT FARLEIGH SCHOOL A SPECTACULAR SINGIN' IN THE RAIN AT FARLEIGH SCHOOL A magical cast performed the Year 8 production of Singin’ in the Rain Jnr at Farleigh School, bringing the house down in four spectacular performances, never mind the rain!

America in the hey-day of the movies on its changeover from the silents to the ‘talkies’ was brought to the Farleigh stage in amazing style, complete with twirling umbrellas, moving solo performances, beautifully choreographed scenes and hilarious skits, all tied together by ‘glorious’ performances from the children

across all the shows. Favourite numbers such as Moses Supposes and Broadway Melody and of course, the eponymous Singin’ in the Rain, quite literally brought music to our ears as the children sang their hearts out.

Kevin Hession, Head of Drama at Farleigh School, created an atmosphere that was completely captivating. As always, the ensemble cast made the show what it was with their energy and enthusiasm. We were transported to Broadway for an evening that won’t be forgotten, with everyone singin’ and any damp spirits completely washed away!

SENIOR SCHOOLS’ EXHIBITION Open to all - an excellent opportunity to meet representatives from leading senior schools around the country. Saturday 29th

EMBLEY LAUNCHES 2020 SIXTH FORM MBA EXPERIENCE

Embley, in partnership with the University of Winchester Business School, has launched its 2020 MBA Experience for A Level students.

This programme supports one of the school’s core purposes: that each student is the best they can be by equipping them with the knowledge and skills that will empower them to make a difference.

Drawing on the expertise of the University of Winchester and a range of business people

who are experts in their field, Embley’s MBA Experience forms part of its Sixth Form enrichment programme and will help students develop their understanding of sustainable business and responsible leadership: skills that can be readily applied during higher education and in future careers.

Topic covered will include: sustainability and social justice, leadership and organisational success, business strategy, design-led marketing and financial management.

Schools attending: Ampleforth, Badminton, Bryanston, Canford, Cheltenham College, Cheltenham Ladies’ College, Dauntsey's, Downe House, Downside, Eton, Godolphin, Harrow, Heathfield, King Edward VI (Southampton), King’s Bruton, King’s Taunton, Lancing, Leweston, Marlborough, Mayfield, Milton Abbey, Oundle, Pangbourne, Radley, St Edward’s Oxford, St Mary's Ascot, St Mary's Calne, St Mary's Shaftesbury, St Swithun’s, Sherborne, Sherborne Girls, Stonar, Stonyhurst, Stowe, Taunton School, Tudor Hall, Uppingham, Warminster, Wells Cathedral School, Winchester, Worth and Wycombe Abbey.

COMMUNITY SINGING About 30 individuals (current and past parents, current and former staff, as well as a former pupil) sang a selection of well-known works by John Rutter at the recent ‘Come and Sing’ event at Farleigh School. It was a great success and Farleigh looks forward to welcoming any willing singers back in January 2021, so if you couldn’t come this time, come along next year. All welcome!

Please do see our ‘What’s Coming Up’ page at https://www.farleighschool.com/whatscoming-up-at-farleigh-school.php as we regularly hold specialist and popular musical events that are open to all, often for free or at a very reasonable ticket price.

In 2016, the University of Winchester was one of only three universities in the UK (and 30 in the world) to become a Global Principles of the United Nations Responsible Management Education (PRME) recognised institution which aims to develop a new generation of business leaders capable of managing the complex economic, environmental and social challenges faced by business in the 21st century.

Embley offers a unique Sixth Form opportunity where students can begin to develop their career pathways. Along with the MBA Experience, the school’s Nightingale Lectures sees explorers, astronauts, leading sports personalities and Formula 1 designers and engineers speak to students during formal, black tie dining experiences; iPads form part of the multifaceted approach to learning and Embley’s higher education conference, university roadshows and career events all form part of the two-year A Level programme.

www.embley.org.uk

EDUCATION

25

26

COMMUNITY

TREE PLANTING THROUGH 2019 REACHES LEAFY HEIGHTS

BRIGHT FUTURES FOR GODOLPHIN STUDENTS Godolphin has some exciting new developments in careers education and guidance, all sign-posting future opportunities for their students.

Firstly, a new Bright Futures Resource Centre, a wonderful focus for students’ independent research and inspiration. Students will also have Bright Futures lessons in the Resource Centre throughout their time at Godolphin, from First Year to Sixth Form. In September 2019, Godolphin launched a new activity “Find Your Future Friday” open to students from all year groups. Each week a different visiting speaker comes to talk, (during Friday lunch break) giving students the chance to find out about a career, university, or training opportunity.

Last term Godolphin welcomed a diverse range of speakers, from members of their own Alumnae working in fashion, finance and business; to parents who are medicine and health specialists and veterinarians; detectives speaking about solving crimes, Newcastle University talking about careers related to Humanities degrees; and insights from an expert on International Universities.

WINNER TAKES IT ALL

TRACY RECEIVING HER PRIZE FROM AMY OF DAVID MELLOR JEWELLERS

Tracey Manston was the lucky winner of Andover BID’s Indies (Independent shops) prize competition drawn at Christmas. After the New Year break, Tracey decided to spend her prize voucher worth £250 between David Mellor’s Family Jewellers and Sho Space in the town. As well as the main prize, purchases, participating shops had been encouraged to each donate a small prize to go into a gift hamper and so Tracey was also presented with a range of individual gifts to the value of a further £100.

Feedback on these sessions has been excellent, with parents and students commenting on how useful these lunchtimes have been, and the visitors themselves have often commented on the intelligent and engaged questions students ask. Alongside the Summer Term Bright Futures Fair, and the yearly Bright Futures Evening, Find Your Future Friday offers a great way for girls to picture their future and life after Godolphin.

Making support with future choices more visible and accessible, Godolphin runs a Bright Futures Drop-In Clinic in the Senior Boarding House every Monday and Friday lunchtime, where a typical week involves questions about GCSE choice; help with application forms for part-time work; and chats about evolving plans for university. Careers and university support are brought into the classroom, with posters and information available on relevant subject areas, and teachers volunteering to become Bright Futures Subject Champions, able to guide interested students towards websites, courses and opportunities relevant to their subjects.

Bethan Ferguson is Head of Bright Futures at Godolphin. For more information about Careers Education and Guidance at Godolphin, visit www.godolphin.org.

Tracey lives in Overton and works in Whitchurch and regards Andover as her local town. I really like Andover and the range of quirky shops it has; we are so fortunate to live in such a lovely part of the world and to have Andover as our centre. I found this competition great fun and I am really delighted to have won.

Steve Godwin, BID manager says ‘The Indies prize draw competition before Christmas was incredibly popular with local people. 170 people entered the competition and each entry had to obtain 5 stamps in individual businesses which meant that there were over 500 unique shop visits as a result. We were very pleased with the response to the competition, local businesses were terrific in the way they responded, and we met the expectation, which was to move people around the town, experiencing the number of different businesses. This was so popular that we are considering something similar but with a different theme for Easter’ For more information about Andover BID please visit www.andoverbid.org

More than 170 trees have been planted by Test Valley Borough Council over the past 12 months as part of the authority’s annual replacement programme.

Borough wards including Valley Park, Romsey Cupernham, Andover Millway and Winton have all seen many of the tree varieties planted since the start of 2019.

Every year, the council undertakes a tree planting programme to help regenerate the borough’s green spaces, on top of the everyday work carried out throughout the year, which maintain residential and leisure locations, as well as help the wildlife to flourish. All 172 trees were purchased locally from Hilliers Nursery in Ampfield and include tulip trees, giant redwoods and pine trees.

Picket Twenty, Rooksbury Cycle Path and Admirals Way all saw trees planted, while other areas including Tadburn in Romsey and Harroway in Andover also benefitted.

For 2020, the council is already looking to plant between 170 and 200 further trees around the borough.

Community and leisure portfolio holder, councillor Tony Ward, said: “A lot of the agricultural work that our countryside teams do can often be taken for granted, but every site visit and maintenance carried out is so important.

“Our borough is filled with beautiful open spaces, but making sure our residential areas are also as green as possible is just as vital to us. It’s great to know that Romsey, Andover and everywhere in between has benefitted from our annual programme, and I know the plans for 2020 are no different.” www.testvalley.gov.uk