Test Valley Forum - Issue 149 January 2021

Forum

ISSUE 149 JANUARY 2021

TEST VALLEY

Life in your Community

BEAN AND GONE

YOUR COMMUNITY

HAPPY NEW YEAR

By Lucia Foster-Found

All your local news and features

To all our readers and advertisers

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

LECKFORD HUTT STOCKBRIDGE RE O F AL S

Currently a high class restaurant with living accommodation and seperate barn with great potential.

Main building 3192 sq ft (296.54 sqm) and Barn 832 sq ft (77.29sqm) Very suitable for present use or for former use as a public house with accommodation or alternative commercial uses such as office, retail space, leisure, pre-school nursery or residential use subject to negotiation and planning permission.

Clos du Marquis will be opening at Nomads House on Stockbridge High Street in January, 2021 PRICE ON APPLICATION

5 LITTLE DEAN COURT STOCKBRIDGE

LAND AT UPPER CLATFORD RE FOAL S

RE FOAL S

A charming mews style house with stunning countryside views, close to Stockbridge High Street Kitchen/ Lounge area, Bedroom, En-Suite, Garage.

Beautiful communal gardens and grounds providing views across the valley.

Allocated parking available.

38.93 Acres of Agricultural Land on the outskirts of the village. To be sold as a whole or in separate lots. Paddocks from 5 acres.

Outstanding views and very well fenced.

PRICE ON APPLICATION

GUIDE PRICE: £185,000 Leasehold and share of freehold

www.myddeltonmajor.co.uk

Tel: 01264 316000

THE TEST VALLEY FORUM JANUARY 2021

CONTENTS 05 Property Management

Buying, selling, letting?

Find local estate agents and property management services

14 Feature

04

15 Motoring

06 Wellbeing

Looking after your health and yourself!

Find local schools and educational experts

10 Culture

Local services to keep your vehicle running smoothly

16 Home

08 Education

Bean and Gone By Lucia Foster-Found

06

Trades, services, designers, All you need for your home

Contacts 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

The Arts in Hampshire

Design Manager James Curtis james@forumpublications.co.uk

10 Leisure & Entertainment

Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk

Discover local events and days out in Hampshire

Contributors Lucia Foster-Found www. luciafosterfound.com

11 Garden

Make your garden dream come true

Gill Grant gill@forumpublications.co.uk

12 Animal & Pet

Get in Touch

From Canine to Equine all your animal needs

Forum Publications Offices

12 Retail

Our regular retail feature, Unique, Bespoke, Eclectic and Local shopping

Unit 8A, Shelf House, New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QH Tel: 01962 735137 www.forumpublications.co.uk

10 20

14

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. 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.

Test Valley Forum 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 © Forum Publications Ltd, 2021

COMMUNITY Winter Woodland Lights at Hawk Conservancy Trust

Enjoy a break in the outdoors in the Test Valley, Hampshire

Start 2021 with a sparkle at the Hawk Conservancy Trust, when it will become even more magical with beautiful illuminations and a live owl display set in a stunning, colourful woodland.

While immersed in nature, see the Trust come alive with sounds and lights as they dance through the branches. Be amazed by the sea of colour as they offer some much needed escapism to lift the January blues and brighten your spirits.

Follow a captivating trail that celebrates the wonder of the woods and all that live within, as mesmerising lights and fascinating narration illuminate many scenes of woodland life. Experience a rainstorm of light, the joy of sunrise and a dazzling owl 'sky dance'.

Beautiful owls will feature in the finale with a live display in the Trust's wonderful woodland arena, where the trees will come alive with lights, music, sound and, of course, their birds in flight. Like all events and visits to the Trust, there will be extensive measures in place to provide a COVID-19 safe experience. Visitor numbers will be restricted and the event takes place outside. PLEASE remember social distancing and to bring a mask or face covering. Book now and have something to look forward to this January – early booking discount available until 5 December!

Fundraising Event The Hawk Conservancy Trust have created this as a fundraising event as a direct result of losing so much income due to COVID-19 restrictions and closures. Not only will this event hopefully lift the spirits of those visiting; the money generated from this event will help re-coup some of the lost funds in 2020, vital for the conservation of birds of prey.

Hawk Conservancy Trust, Visitor Centre, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire, SP11 8DY www.hawk-conservancy.org

New Years Day Ride In at Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum Sammy Miller is a motorcycling legend, 11 times British Champion, winner of over 1400 events and still winning competitions more than 50 years after his first victory. The Museum houses one of the finest collections of fully restored motorcycles in the world, including factory racers and exotic prototypes, with the collection constantly evolving as new bikes are acquired. This is a living museum with almost every motorcycle in the museum in full running order. Sammy demonstrates and parades the bikes at race circuits in the UK and at Museum event days.

Join the museum for their first New Year's Day Ride In – a great way to kick start 2021! Bikers, a free hot drink awaits you on your arrival. The event is Free and timings are from 11am until 2pm.

The Motorcycle Museum and Catering Shed will both be open. email museum@sammymiller.co.uk or call 01425 620 777

4

After the year we've had why not plan ahead for a break in 2021 in the great outdoors to have something to look forward to? You can be close to nature but socially distant through walking, cycling, exploring gardens and woodland, fly-fishing for the area's world-famous trout, and perhaps even sleeping close to nature! All this and more is on offer in Hampshire's beautiful Test Valley. But remember to check first that accommodation and attractions are open before making plans - see the websites below.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the area's riverside paths, gently rolling hills, wide open spaces, woodland and nature reserves by taking hikes along trails like the Test Way, a wonderful long distance walk which runs the length of the River Test, passing through picturesque countryside and villages along the way. https://www.hants.gov.uk/ thingstodo/countryside/walking/testway).

Or there's the Clarendon Way, a 24-mile walk between Winchester and Salisbury Cathedrals, which takes in some of the best parts of the Test Valley https://www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/countryside/ walking/clarendonway, the Monarch's Way, a long-distance footpath that follows the escape route taken by King Charles 11 in 1651 after being defeated at the Battle of Worcester http:// www.monarchsway.50megs.com/about.html, the Brenda Parker Way, between Andover and Aldershot, which gives an insight into the area's military heritage and climbs to the highest villages in Hampshire, offering spectacular views. https://www.ldwa.org.uk/ ldp/members/show_path.php?path_name=Brenda+Parker+Way and the wonderfully named disused railway line -the Sprat and Winkle- between Andover and Redbridge, Southampton. http://www. railwayramblers.org.uk/news/15news/VH-PDF-Sprat%20and%20 Winkle%20Leaflet%202010.pdf The Ladies Walk, near Andover, forms part of a pre-Roman track where 121 trees were planted to commemorate the wedding of HRH The Prince of Wales to Princess Alexandra of Denmark in 1863. These trees bring stunning colours in Autumn. https://www.testvalley.gov.uk/communityandleisure/ naturereserves/ladies-walk Besides long distance trails there are many opportunities for short circular walks, dog friendly routes, family rambles, walks in nature reserves and woodland. https://www.bing.com/ search?q=test+valley+get+out+and+walk And the National Trust looks after some beautiful areas just perfect for walking and observing wildlife - like Stockbridge Down and Stockbridge Marsh https://www. nationaltrust.org.uk/mottisfont/features/the-estate-at-mottisfont

PROPERTY All to look forward to The signs are positive for the property market in early 2021. The governments edict in 2020 to ‘Keep the Country Moving’, backed by the stamp duty holiday, low interest rates and an unprecedented desire to successfully combine living and working in a more rural environment, kept the property market consistently active throughout the year.

As we enter 2021, we expect this trend to continue; full or part time working from home is becoming the norm and as a result the exodus from the cities to the country, and particularly, from London to The South continues creating an exceptionally high demand for properties; rental and sales.

Kate Porter, Head of Sales

Kate Morton, Head of Lettings

The new generation of rural re locators are driven by a desire for a better life, of green spaces, bigger gardens, pet friendly houses, and the benefits of a supporting community. They still need access to commuting networks and the comfort of knowing that supermarkets will deliver, all of which is offered by the glorious villages in this region.

Join with us on:

As we start the New Year take a moment, while the demand for houses continues, and call us to discuss your opportunities.

Kate Porter for sales or Kate Morton for lettings opportunities on 02392 632275

East Street, Hambledon

EQDC The Granary, Whitedale Farm Hampshire, PO7 4RZ Tel: 02392 632275 countryhousecompany.co.uk

Experts in property Sales I Lettings I Management Across the South

Selling, Letting & Managing properties in the Test Valley 02392 632 275

sales@countryhousecompany.co.uk  lettings@countryhousecompany.co.uk management@countryhousecompany.co.uk countryhousecompany.co.uk

½À 5

WELLBEING 202One New Thing

Studies show resolutions degrade quickly and only about 40% of those who make resolutions actually stick to their goals. In this era of over-commitment, over-stimulation and overwhelm, perhaps you can try a different approach. This year, instead of listing all the things you should be doing, why not make a shorter list of the things you can do.

Here’s a great tip: be SMART when creating a New Year’s resolution list.

S M A R T

We love the beginning of a new year and the idea of a fresh start, clean slate and endless possibilities. We are moving on from the ‘New Year – New You’ movement here at the SOP. This catch phrase seems to be a recipe for planning unattainable goals, setting unrealistic expectations and then the inevitable negativity and slump that failed resolutions ultimately bring in early February. And there’s nothing actually bad or wrong with the ‘old you’!

Just reflect on what has passed, learn and progress with kindness and no judgement. This year is going to be tough enough without the pressure of having to reinvent yourself.

So this year we are all about small bite-size achievable goals and so to help you focus on a few areas in your life you may like to change, we are thinking about just One New Thing you can implement in each area.

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

Make it specific. Use action words to state what you’ll do Make it measurable, so you can track your progress Make it achievable, challenging but possible Make it relevant, personal and beneficial to your needs Make it time-based, set a deadline

Most of all, make sure you feel a sense of joy, lightness and excitement as you write it, and actually writing your goals down makes them ten times more likely to happen.

And you know what makes you 10 times more likely to succeed?

Write it down and make yourself accountable! Fill in the card on the opposite page and pin it up. Tell family and friends what you plan to do, and share your goals with us by tagging us in your social media streams. We want to know, and if you need help with your health and wellbeing goals, just pop us a message, we love to chat!

A very happy, healthy and joyous new year to you, from all of us at the SOP Emma Wightman - www.the-sop.com emma@the-sop.com Instagram: @stockbridgeosteopathy Facebook: @stockbridgeosteopathicpractice #202OneNewThing

• McTimoney Chiropractic • Sports Therapy • Allergy Testing • Hypnotherapy • Homeopathy • Counselling • Nutrition Chiros Clinic has close links to Andover Osteopathy, for more information contact Mark on 01264 580280

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

6

36 East Street, Andover, SP10 1ES

HAPPY NEW YEAR! We love the beginning of a new year and the idea of a fresh start, a clean slate and endless possibilties....

 STOCKBRIDGE O S T E O PAT H I C P R ACT I C E

202ONE NEW THING This year we are all about small, bite-size achievable goals and to help you focus we are thinking about just One New Thing you can implement.

And writing it down makes it ten times more likely to happen!

I will do One New Thing to:

Goal and date:

Help myself relax and feel less stressed Change my home or work space to encourage more activity Help protect the planet or support my local community

You have the potential to feel better and live more.

We are here to help. Drop us a line or give us a call, we love to chat Tel: 01264 810028 www.the-sop.com #202OneNewThing

7

Make Better Hearing your New Year’s Resolution.

Feeling Isolated after lockdown…. Make the most of time ™ Hearwith your best new with yearthewith , spent loved onesin thisthe Christmas latestLivio Hearing Technology.

We are 2 week free sound trial on thequality, the hearing aidoffering with asuperior Starkey Livioand Edge,connectivity.

The worlds most advanced Hearing Aid. comfort • Edge mode conducts an AI-based analysis of the environment to make immediate adjustments designed to improve speech audibility issues • Superior sound quality and clarity to hear comfortably caused by background noise and even face masks.

the integrated •• Use Enhanced streaming directional performancemicrophones lets you enjoy with musicthe or favourite TV shows and films like never before.

Offer includes

Free consultation & hearing aid fitting on the day!

Thrive™ app

• Hear better in background noise with enhanced noise reduction

• The worlds smallest rechargeable hearing aid. aid .

Try Livio for yourself with our 2 Week Free Trial Offer.

Call today on 01962 790749

Hurry! Offer ends on 31st January 2020 2021 HEARING PROBLEMS? MAYBE IT’S JUST EARWAX VISIT ALRESFORD HEARING STUDIO AND WE’LL REMOVE IT FOR YOU We specialise in the Micro Suction Technique of earwax removal. Micro Suction is a safe & effective £55for one ear or process with no need for weeks of softening with oil based products. Our fee is £45 £80 £70 for both ears. We are able to offer appointments at times to suit you, both evenings and weekends.

Lo c I n de al & pe Fami ndent ly B u s i Ru n ness

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 A U CALL US TODAY ON: 01962 790749 • VISIT US AT: alresfordhearingstudio.co.uk

8Free Hearing Consultations · Invisible Hearing Aids · Tinnitus Advice · Phone & Mobile Compatible Technology · Home Visits 432972832

WELLBEING / EDUCATION

AWARD WINNING DENTISTRY

welcoming new patients

www.river.dental or Call 01264 810818 ………………………

…………...…………...

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

A leading independent senior school for weekly and full boarders and day girls (11–18)

It’s who we are.

Open morning on Saturday 30 January

Please contact us to find out more: www.stswithuns.com | 01962 835700

9

THE ARTS

Test Valley Arts Foundation Chairmans Report 2019/2020 As I mentioned in my last report – the Board wanted to do something bold, exciting and really dynamic in the Test Valley. We decided to go forward with a wonderful Festival “TEST VALLEY 2020” – Borough of Culture. So much of 2019 was taken with planning for this – raising funds, producing a programme, launching new initiatives, developing partnerships – as our ambition was to have something going on in the Valley on every day in 2020.

Our partners included the Borough Council, Bewiser ltd, Chapel Arts Studios, Hampshire Cultural Trust, the Arts Council England, Hampshire County Council, Forum Publications, Andover Radio, Stockbridge Arts, and The Romsey Festival, The Garden Gallery in Broughton, The Lights and the Plaza in Romsey. So on a rainy evening in Stockbridge on the 16th January 2020 we launched the programme – over one hundred people crowded into the Grosvenor Hotel in Stockbridge.

Most of the organisations involved joined us as did senior Councillor’s from our two local authorities. Both Councils have generously supported this ever increasing project - £ 50 K from Hampshire County Council and Test Valley Borough Council supporting local projects. Rebecca Maddox our organiser together with Sue Messa our Development Officer and most of the TVAF Board were at hand together with a Brass Band to get the ball rolling!

Real excitement and expectation was around with new ideas and opportunities coming forward on a daily basis.

Our website was to be the vehicle for the “Festival” it was put together by Forum Media & Design Ltd (sister company to Forum Publications) to great acclaim. It was easy to use, accessible, up-todate and above all FUN. It’s still going strong!

In the programme we had included everything from small Village based activities to gala evenings in Andover and Romsey. A Garden Party at the Garden Gallery in Broughton together with a “Monologue Project”, a Choir “Eisteddford” Festival, Test Valley Arts Trail as part of the August “Open Art” programme and many more outdoor events including a fantastic street celebration “Test Valley Celebrates” in Andover High Street and at the Lights were all in the pipeline. So things started in early 2020 slowly, quietly and in March 2020 a Borough Wide newspaper which carried the major events went to every door in the Test Valley. We were happy, excited and full of expectation!

Then Covid 19 hit!

All stop!

We were stuck.

10

BUT – many of our partners started to think creatively – The Hampshire Cultural Trust launched Culture On-Line. Chapel Arts Studios had “Virtual” exhibitions. Zoom and Skype were the new watch words with many new ideas and initiatives taking place. Our Video project supported by TVBC was able to start planning – more of that in next year’s Annual Report.

The Board has tried to keep in touch by email – enthusiasm still in full flow. Given the work planning “Test Valley 2020 - The Borough of Culture” we have had to put everything on hold. The subsequent need for “lockdown” and the tragedy of the Virus has/is a huge blow to all of us. We are hoping that as things return to the “new normal” we will still be able to do something in 2020. We are still debating if we should wait and do the whole thing again in 2021 – so please continue to watch this space!

During the year we continued to support local organisations and artists, for example – the Michelmersh Silver Band – they go from strength to strength winning awards all over the country; we Supported Stockbridge Primary School, Companions of St Johns and their “Over the Top Project”, the Andover Loft Singers and many other local groups. The “Bus of Many things” was at the Eastleigh Mela, Trout n About and the Romsey Show together with many other events in Andover and even the New Forest. Chapel Arts Studios is now a registered Charity, with a set of energetic Trustees and its Chairman Mark Courtice supporting David Dixon and the increasing group of Associate Artists – the projects are now both in the Test Valley and beyond. They have a comprehensive website which is both entertaining and informative.

This last year was not the very best for me – I had some ill health hence I am once again very grateful to ALL our Trustees for their excellent support and help. Our Vice-Chairman Crescens George resigned during the year due to pressure of work – his help support and link with Bewiser Ltd was really valuable – that partnership continues today. His interest in photography and his support for encouraging young people to be creative is a warm and continuing legacy. I am indebted to our Treasurer John Dumper for his efforts and dedication and Sue Messa who makes sure that the Board is well supported and continues to innovate.

I want to conclude by thanking both our local authorities Test Valley Borough Council and Hampshire County Council for their continued investment in us the Arts, Culture and Heritage. Their enlightened investment particularly in difficult times is crucial to ensuring that the Quality of Life in our Borough and the County of Hampshire continues to improve and flourish.

Yinnon Ezra MBE MA FRSA CHAIRMAN Test Valley Arts Foundation

MAR MAR

H

Wuthering Wuthering Heights Heights

WAS ITWAS YOUIT YOU

ENTERTAINMENT / GARDEN

adapted by adapted byCharly CharlyArmstrong Armstrong

4-14MAR MAR2020 2020@@7.30PM 4-14MAR MAR NO 2020 PERF 99 MAR 4-14 7.30PM &&88@@2.30PM. 4-14 2.30PM. NO 2020 PERF @@7.30PM 7.30PM MAR &&88@@2.30PM. 2.30PM. NO NO PERF PERF 99 MAR MAR 21 MAR 2020 @ 2.30PM & 7.30PM 21 MAR 2020 @ 2.30PM & 7.30PM

Wuthering Wuthering Heights Heights Adapted by Charly Armstrong

Adapted by Charly Armstrong

WAS IT YOU

Pheasant Pheasant PluckerPlucker & Friend & Friend

4-14MAR MAR2020 2020@@7.30PM 4-14 7.30PM &&88@@2.30PM. 2.30PM. NO NO PERF PERF 99 MAR MAR

21 MAR 2020 @ 2.30PM & 7.30PM

WAS IT YOU Wuthering

Heights 21 MAROF 2020 @MOUTH 2.30PM & 7.30PM WORD WORD OF MOUTHPheasant HIM AND ME S>E>D Plucker HIGH JINKSS>E>D AND SLAP AND

WAS IT YOU Adapted by Charly Armstrong

TICKLE IN23–28 THEMARANCIENT 2020 @ 7.30PM TOWN OF POMPEII. 21 MARROMAN 2020 @ 2.30PM & 7.30PM 23–28 MAR 2020 @ 7.30PM

THE TRACY AND & Friend HEPBURN STORY

6-11 APRIL 2020 @ 2.30PM & 7.30PM 6-11 APRIL 2020 @ 2.30PM & 7.30PM

20TH - 30TH JAN 2021 @7.30, 24TH @ 2.30 A NEW PLAY IN TWO ACTS BY CHARLY ARMSTRONG & DAN SCOTT

6TH–16TH JAN 2021 @7.30, 10TH @ 2.30 RESCHEDULED DATES DUE TO LOCKDOWN

WORDAUDIENCES OF MOUTH ARE SOCIALLY DISTANCED AND THE VENUE IS COVID SECURE

0333 666 3366 0333 666 3366 03336663366 03336663366 Pheasant S>E>D Plucker 73 St. Margarets Lane, Titchfield, PO14 4BG www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com • 03336 663366 663366 t www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com • 03336 663366• 03336 f f t & Friend

laughter. laughter.

The story of a bird handler who Thethrows story ofdown a birdher handler gauntlet; who throws down her gauntlet; a soaring of avian antics, soaring andADVICE daring. tale ofHarriet’s avian antics, journey wit and daring. Harriet’s journey VENUE MAY BE SUBJECT TO tale CHANGE DUE TOawit HMG of self discovery is both daft and of self deliriously discoveryfunny. is both daft and deliriously funny.

23–28 MAR 2020 @ 7.30PM

6–11 apr 2020 @ 2.30pm & 7.30pm6–11 apr 2020 @ 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Pheasant JESSIE KEANE Plucker & Friend QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD A MILLION BOOKS SOLD

6-11 APRIL 2020 @ 2.30PM & 7.30PM

6-11 APRIL 2020 @ 2.30PM & 7.30PM

laughter.

The story of a bird handler who throws down her gauntlet; a soaring tale of avian antics, wit and daring. Harriet’s journey of self discovery is both daft and deliriously funny.

0333 666 3366 03336663366

6–11 apr 2020 @ 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Supply and planting large specimen trees and shrubs Espalier, pleached and instant impact hedges All trees and shrubs carefully selected

laughter.

The story of a bird handler who throws down her gauntlet; 6-11 APRIL 2020 @ 2.30PM & 7.30PM a soaring tale of avian antics, wit and daring. Harriet’s journey of self discovery is both daft and deliriously funny.

0333 666 3366 03336663366

THE MANOR 6–11 apr 2020 @ 2.30pm & 7.30pm

ON SALE 31 DECEMBER laughter.

ST

0333 666 3366 03336663366

AT story ASDA, ANDwho ALLthrows GOOD BOOKSHOPS The of aTESCO bird handler down her gauntlet; OR ORDER DIRECT FROM JESSIE’S a soaring tale of avian antics, wit and daring. WEBSITE Harriet’s journey WWW.JESSIE-KEANE.CO.UK of self discovery is both daft and deliriously funny.

OR PRE-ORDER NOW FROM AMAZON 6–11 apr 2020 @ 2.30pm & 7.30pm

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

11

PROFESSIONAL / RETAIL

Brocks Farm

Livery and Riding Centre Janette and Lucinda Burtenshaw

GREETING CARDS FOR ALL OCCASIONS CHOSEN FROM OVER 50 DIFFERENT SUPPLIERS, GIFTS, WRAP AND JEWELLERY TOO! Visit us online and subscribe to hear about our SPECIAL OFFERS and JANUARY BARGAINS Free delivery within 10 miles (£10 minimum spend) or elsewhere reasonable postage costs apply.

B.H.S approved, licensed by Test Valley Borough Council Lessons for all abilities • Dressage school masters • Small children and beginners taught with care on well schooled all-round ponies/horses • Careful attention paid to the needs of Liveries.

Tel: 01264 810090 brocksfarm@googlemail.com www.brocksfarm.co.uk Brocks Farm, Longstock, Stockbridge, Hants, SO20 6DP

OPENING HOURS Monday 10-4 Tuesday 10-4 Wednesday 10-4 Thursday 10-4 Friday 10-4 Saturday 10-4

www.alresfordgiftshop.co.uk 10 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT Phone: 01962 732192

wines under in stock Plus high street busting deals to make life feel better - Brilliant Case Deals - Online only special offers - Money off and multibuy deals on wines, beers and lagers - Plus of course our hugely popular staff recommendations

The Naked Grape www.thenakedgrape.co.uk

12

ALRESFORD

FOUR MARKS

HUNGERFORD

01962 732002

01420 562060

01488 684684

RETAIL

One of ITV's Most Popular Antiques Experts

BEST CASH PRICES PAID FOR: Gold & Silver Jewellery & Antiques Including: Watches, medals, bronzes, oriental ceramics, quality antiques, house clearance/insurance valuations

Happy to arrange home calls by appointment karendalmeny@gmail.com For enquiries please call:

07712 545 700

Serving Broughton and the surrounding Test Valley

Sustainable Diamonds Sustainable Diamonds Sustainable Diamonds

Sustainable Diamonds Everyone Loves Sparklers In November November Everyone Loves Sparklers In November Sustainable Diamonds Everyone Loves Sparklers In

• Locally Sourced Food & Drink • Large Car Park With Plenty Of Spaces • Lots of Delicious Treats • Post Office • Deli • Coffee

ECO-PRODUCTS Dry Goods Refills

Bring in a container and fill with nuts, rice, pasta, oats, cereals or seeds.

Liquid Household Refills Bring a bottle and fill with soap, washing up liquid, laundry liquid, cleaners, shampoo, conditioner or hand sanitiser We also have The Magnificent Seed extra virgin rapeseed oil on tap for refills IGI Certified Laboratory Grown Diamonds Fair Trade Gold IGI Certified Laboratory Grown Diamonds in FairinTrade Gold IGI Certified Laboratory Grown Diamonds in Fair Trade Gold IGI Certified Laboratory GrownDiamonds Diamonds in Fair IGI Certified Laboratory Grown in Fair TradeTrade Gold Gold Left: Solitaire Diamond – 0.50ct, E Colour, VS2 - £1,725 Left: Solitaire Diamond Ring Ring – 0.50ct, Colour, - £1,725 Left: Solitaire Diamond Ring –E0.50ct, EVS2 Colour, VS2 - £1,725 Natural Yellow Diamond Ring £5,495 Natural Yellow Diamond Cluster Ring £5,495 Right: Solitaire Diamond Ring –Cluster 1.02ct, E VS2 Colour, - £3,995 Left: Solitaire Diamond Ring – EEColour, -VS2 £1,725 Left: Solitaire Diamond Ring –0.50ct, 0.50ct, E Colour, - £1,725 Right: Solitaire Diamond Ring – 1.02ct, Colour, - VVS2 £3,995 Natural Yellow Diamond Cluster Ring £5,495 Right: Solitaire Diamond Ring – 1.02ct, EVVS2 Colour, VVS2 - £3,995 Three Stone Natural Yellow Diamond Ring Three Stone Natural Yellow £5,250 Right: Solitaire Diamond Ring E Ring Colour, VVS2£5,250 - £3,995 Right: Solitaire Diamond Ring–Diamond –1.02ct, 1.02ct, E Colour, VVS2 - £3,995 Three Stone Natural Yellow Diamond Ring £5,250 Solitaire Diamond Ring Diamond RingRing £3,995 PearSolitaire Shaped Cluster In£3,995 Platinum Solitaire Diamond Ring £3,995 Natural Yellow Diamond Cluster Pendant £3,250 Yellow Diamond Cluster Cluster PendantPendant £3,250 £3,250 Natural Yellow Diamond Centre Natural Diamond GIA Certified 0.50ct, F Colour, SI1 Clarity

£3,895 40a40a West Street, Alresford, HantsHants West Street, Alresford, 40a West Street, Alresford, Hants 40aTel: West Street, Alresford, Hants 01962 732200 Tel: 01962 732200 40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 40a West Street, Alresford, Hants 40a West Street, Alresford, Hants 40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk www.dbarkerandson.co.uk Tel: 01962 732200 Tel:www.dbarkerandson.co.uk 01962 732200 Tel: 01962 Tel: 01962732200 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk www.dbarkerandson.co.uk www.dbarkerandson.co.uk www.dbarkerandson.co.uk www.dbarkerandson.co.uk

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

SHOP OPENING HOURS

Weekdays: 9am - 1pm & 2pm - 4pm Saturday: 9am - 12:30pm Sunday: 9:30am - 12:30pm

POST OFFICE OPENING HOURS Weekdays: 9am - 1pm Saturday: 9am - 12pm Sunday: Closed

Tel: 01794 502495 Facebook: @BroughtonVillageShop www.broughton.shop Broughton Community Shop, Village Hall, High Street, Broughton, SO20 8AX

13

FEATURE

Bean and Gone © LUCIA FOSTER-FOUND 2020

WWW.LUCIAFOSTERFOUND.COM

“Guess what I’m bringing back!”

She looked up from a fruitless search for a green triangle; purple ones had reached extinction on Boxing Day. Unwrapping a strawberry delight, she hazarded a guess.

“Hanging?”

At his shocked look she had another stab.

“Flogging?”

“Really Darling, sometimes I wonder if you know me at all…“ She raised an eyebrow. “Nooo. I’ve been watching a programme about Tudor Christmases.”

Her stand out schoolgirl memory of Henry VIII (apart from the wife thing) was that he consumed 5,000 calories a day. How lovely.. But was probably why he looked as wide as he was tall in his portraits, her thoughts rambled on. And that ridiculous stance, like Lord Flashheart in Blackadder – hands on hips with his codpiece thrust out.

Oh no, surely not.. “The Codpiece?” she ventured, with trepidation. Couldn’t see that catching on. Certainly not amongst the young – would look ridiculous teamed up with drainpipe jeans hanging around their hips. Underpants on show at the back, bejewelled cup at the front? No. Just. No. “Stop guessing now, darling. You’re way off the mark. I’m referring to Twelfth Night!” He announced.

Unaware that it had ever gone away, she was puzzled. “Well it’s not my favourite Shakespearean play, but I’m not sure it needs your help to revive it. Timon of Peres however, could probably do with a leg up.”

Exasperation in his tone “No, no, no. Can’t stand Shakespeare.

I’m talking about Twelfth Night; great festival and feast of bygone times. Celebrates the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus.”

“I thought they came on Christmas Day? It doesn’t say anything about them being nearly a fortnight late in the ‘We Three Kings’ carol. Except maybe the one on a scooter, beeping his hooter – he’d probably be slower than the one in a taxi and the one in a car.” Finding herself hilarious, she sniggered.

Himself went on with a vaguely pained expression “It was also marked, in pre-Christian times by the ancient ritual of Wassailing in the orchards, where people drank to the trees’ health.”

14

“Are you sure the trees weren’t just an excuse for a booze-up – can’t imagine a Cox’s Pippin saying ‘Cheers’ back, like Treebeard the Ent.” Because that would be alarming – and not too good for Himself, what with his dicky heart. “It sounds like a pretext for a grand hurrah before January descends into doom and gloom.”

“Precisely that. Especially this year when it’s going to doomier and gloomier than ever.” His smile was a little wan and she sympathised. It might be nice to have a jolly evening before taking down the decorations and turning the lights off Christmas.

Although for her, January brought its own reward in the form of a welcome respite from the relentless TV adverts. She was suffering from ETA – Excessive Television Advertising. And had exceeded her FAQ – Festive Advertising Quotient.

She thought she might actually scream if she saw one more impossibly beautiful girl leaping inexplicably off a pier, wallowing about in gold paint or riding a horse whilst most inappropriately dressed. All for the sake of a perfume.

And just who were these singers and musicians that resurfaced every December to flog their Christmas CD? You didn’t see them the rest of the year. Perhaps, she mused, they were cryogenically frozen from January to November and thawed out just in time to promote their Granny-safe offering.

However, Himself was still on-topic and looking at his tablet “It says here that bakeries would compete for the best shop window display of twelfth night cakes. There’s a recipe – apparently you have to hide a bean in it. The one who finds the bean is crowned Lord of Misrule. He gets to tell the others what to do.”

Given that this year there would only be the two of them, it followed that the Lord of Misrule would just get to boss the other one around. Mmnn. With her evil genius expression hidden by a rummage for a toffee penny, she enthusiastically offered to make the cake. But, OH DEAR, she had a premonition that there would be no bean found and, ergo, no Lord of Misrule.

SUCH A SHAME. NEVER MIND. Looked like one of them had been and gone and swallowed it.

They’d successfully made it through months of incarceration and no-one had ended up buried under the patio. Best not push it. Wouldn’t want their Twelfth Night to be their last night..

COVID-19 UPDATE Winchester Auto Barn is open and at your service We will be fully open and continue to operate normally to the 2nd December and beyond

01962 677776

Competitive rates, quality workmanship and fast turnarounds

SERVICING & MOT’S DIAGNOSTICS & BRAKES GENERAL & MINOR BODY WORK REPAIRS CLUTCH & CAMBELT REPLACEMENTS AIR CONDITIONING For all makes & models, old & new

WHAT’S IN YOUR GARAGE? Winchester Auto Barn are looking to acquire for stock solid Classic Cars from the 60s, 70s, and 80s

Specialists

Outright purchase or consignment SOR basis for sound Classics all makes considered

Winchester Auto Barn Winchester, SO21 3NS www.winchesterautobarn.com

Opening hours 8:00am – 5:30pm Monday to Friday

Fabulous Clean Carpets

HOME

very reasonable prices, and courteous friendly SUPER-FAST 15 MINUTES DRYING service from people you can trust in your home ADVERTISING OFFER Fabulous Clean Carpets, Here’s why one of the ADVERTISE IN THIS Stockbridges’ most trusted carpet cleaning companies SPACE FOR AS LITTLE is cleaning local, nearUpholstery and Curtains neighbours carpets for a fraction of the normal cost AS £45 PER MONTH I am fully committed to the

01962 735137

stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

safety ofWinner my Customers during the Covid19 crisis.

I clean adhering to all social distancing guidelines

The Carpet Care People

3 Great Deals!

D

ear Stockbridge Forum (PLUS VAT, MINIMUM 12 MONTH BOOKING FOR PRICE SHOWN) Reader, Value conscious local residents For more information love a great deal.

If you need your carpets cleaned and are looking for an award-winning company who will arrive on time, will be courteous, respectful and above all trustworthy -- then you’re invited to take advantage of one of the three extraordinary value, high quality, carpet 362378 and upholstery Tel: 01264 cleaning deals we’re offering new customers month Tel: 07771 this 347135 -- because we want to give you the chance to get to know www.mooresmaintenance.co.uk • info@mooresmaintenance.co.uk our service and to find out how impressively new, fresh and bright your carpets will look when cleaned and freshened by 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 carpet cleaning the oflocal Have anyinthree Stockbridgeyour areacarpets cleaned The next thing for you to do for 01962 just £87690 total!005 is call us on we’ll welcome your call, answer your questions and take care of everything for you.

cleaning an (at our cur Fabric Mas and cleanin and very eff to their orig you’ll see!

Deal 2

Tel 01962 690

Have your three piece suite freshened up for just £97!Frequently Asked Ques

Here’s a selection of frequently asked questions especially for you 1. When you say ‘carpet’ what do you mean? We mean average don’t quibble if the areas are a little larger - it’s all done on fairnes Our pricing policy reflects the time it takes to clean working arou any three carpets That said, we are Have for example, happy to move your three piece sui under it and replacing it back into piece position. What we don’t price in and your three moving large pieces of furniture like bookcases, sideboards or war upflat-screen for to move electricalsuite items,freshened in particular tvs. Again we app situation and inevitable we do end up moving some furniture arou just £167!

Are there any ‘hidden’ extra costs? The prices quoted above a prices you will pay.

Deal 3

Carpet Price

2

£77

Carpet Price Carpe

Tel: 01962 690 005 or 07790 883507 FULL OFFER PRICE LIST 1 £47

Members since 1905

Iain & Richard Steel

The Steel family – serving Winchester and the wider Hampshire community since 1860 Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year

01962 862333

Alderman House, City Road, Winchester www.winchesterfunerals.co.uk

 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

16

Carpet Price

2 £67

Upholst

Deal 1

Price Full Offer Price List Carpet 1 £57

Carpet Price

3 Great Deals!

SUPER-FAST 15 MINUTES DRYING

Carpet Price

3 £87

Carpet Price

4 £107

Carpet Price

5 £127

3

£97

4

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

HOME

Barnes & Liddiard Electrical Contractors Limited All aspects of electrical work undertaken Fully compliant to part ‘P’ of the building regulations

Domestic Commercial Industrial Garden Lighting

Tel: 01962 733272

18

The Green Homes Grant: the basics You may have heard homeowners in England can access vouchers worth up to £5,000 to help fund energy-efficient home improvements under a new Government scheme which launched at the end of September.

Under the scheme, homeowners and landlords in England can apply for vouchers worth up to two-thirds of the cost of upgrading the energy-efficiency of their current home – such as double glazing to replace single glazing and low-carbon heating systems. The maximum contribution you can claim is £5,000, however, households on low incomes will have access to claim £10,000.

So, what do you need to know?

There is a time limit: Although originally planned to run for 6-months, the scheme is now available until 2022 with the Government stating that all work must be completed by the end of March 2022. You will receive a separate voucher for each measure you wish to install.

Work can begin once you have received your voucher as work prior to this cannot be claimed.

The grant is suitable for most – but not all: you may be eligible if you live in England and own your property (including long leasehold and Shared Ownership), own your own park home on a residential site and if you’re a residential landlord.

Renters will not be able to access the scheme. New builds which have not been previously occupied and non-domestic properties do not qualify for the scheme.

Only specific home improvements are eligible: to qualify for the grant, you’ll need to install what the Government calls “primary” measures. These include insulation improvements and installing low-carbon heating systems.

If you invest in at least one primary improvement, you’ll also be able to claim to for “secondary” measures such as replacing single glazing with double or triple glazing, draught proofing your home,

installing energy-efficient doors and connecting heating controls. It’s worth noting the amount you get towards the cost of secondary measures cannot exceed the amount you received for primary measures.

Ultimately, managing your energy use will not only improve the efficiency of your home, but you’ll be contributing to a lower carbon future. What’s more, there are specific ‘green’ mortgages which can help fund any changes. Newbury Building Society have a Green Further Advance mortgage available for our existing mortgage customers which can be used for this purpose and in conjunction with the grant.

If you’d like to talk to a qualified mortgage adviser about your options, contact us today.

Andover branch: 35 High Street, Andover, SP10 1LJ. Call: 01264 361455 Email: andover@newbury.co.uk Cliff Osborne, Andover Branch Manager

YOUR MORTGAGE IS SECURED ON YOUR HOME. THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Newbury Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number 206077). English Law applies and we will communicate with you in English. We are participants of the Financial Ombudsman Service. We have a complaints procedure which we will provide on request. Most complaints that we cannot resolve can be referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service. 8202

Newbury

Building Society

Flexi, Weekly and Full Boarding Book a visit today

FRANC

HA LEAL

ETO GE

Tel. 01722 430545 admissions@godolphin.org www.godolphin.org