FORUM
Life in your Community
OUR REGULAR MONTHLY FEATURE
The Good, The Bad and The Ugli Truth by Lucia Foster-Found
NEWS & EVENTS FOR MAY
Find out what's going on in the Test Valley
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Supergreen Risotto with Brocolli, Beans & Watercress
HAMPSHIRE GARDEN TRUST
Gardening Tips for May
PALESTINE
Guide Price £1,500,000
A stunning new house thoughtfully designed to provide an exceptionally light and spacious home enjoying far-reaching countryside views
ABBOTTS ANN BROUGHTON
Guide Price
£595,000
A charming three bedroom cottage stylishly renovated and immaculately presented. Situated in a wonderful position in the centre of Abbotts Ann
Kitchen/breakfast room, spacious sitting room, dining room/study, laundry/utility room. Three double bedrooms, two bathrooms. Delightful cottage garden, potting shed, garage.
Guide Price £365,000
A characterful end of terrace cottage in the highly sought after village of Broughton with planning permission for a double height extension and parking
Kitchen, sitting room, two bedrooms, bathroom. Front & rear garden, shed. Planning permission to create a three bedroom cottage with ensuite, open plan kitchen/dining area and parking space.
Editor
Mark Tubb editor@forumpublications.co.uk
Director of Advertising
Steve Walker stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk
Advertising Manager
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Feature
May Events
Chilbolton Village Hall Film ‘Juror #2’ (12A)
Friday 2 May
Doors 6.30pm (Film 7.30pm)
Chilbolton Village Hall, Eastmans Field, Chilbolton, SO20 6AT
Featuring Nicholas Hoult, Toni Collette, J.K. Simmons, Gabriel Basso and Kiefer Sutherland While serving as a juror in a high-profile murder trial, a family man finds himself struggling with a serious moral dilemma. “The film puts you on the edge of your jury seat and makes you wait impatiently to hear the verdict.”
Tickets £6.00 in advance from Beryl Lawrence on 01264 860618 dlaw@davidlawrenceassociates. co.uk. Or £7.00 on the door (if available). Tea/Coffee and biscuits available. Wine, Beer and Choc Ices on sale.
Annual Flower Festival in Stockbridge
Friday 2 to Monday 5 May
From 10am to 5pm
St Peter's Church, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6EU
Church service at 11am on Sunday. The church will be full of wonderful arrangements based around this year’s theme which is “A Moment in Time”. (Also in Old St Peter’s Church). Teas on the church lawn on Saturday, Sunday and Monday afternoons.
Charlton Village Community Association VE Day 80
Thursday 8 May
From 7pm to 10pm
Charlton Road, Andover, Hampshire, SP10 3JH
Join us for a fantastic time with delicious food, drinks, live music and a giant inflatable for the kids to enjoy! Come along, why not dress for the occasion and let's celebrate together!. Programmes just £2 and include entry into a £50 cash prize raffle!
Somborne Community
Cinema - A Real Pain (15)
Thursday 8 May
From 8pm
Kings Somborne Village Hall, Kings Somborne, SO20 6PP
Oscar winning comedy drama that sees two estranged cousins reunite for a tour through Poland to honour their beloved grandmother. The adventure takes a turn when the pair’s old tensions resurface against the backdrop of their family history. For tickets visit: https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/booking/select/ jlbbdqeanoly
Mylo Summer Show
Fri 9 May to Sat 31 May
From 8am to 5pm
Meadow, 9 High Stret, Stockbridge, SO20 6EX
Mylo Art will be exhibiting a big, bright and beautiful collection of works by the gallery’s favourite artists along with some exciting new additions. Come and view this vibrant collection in the gallery, throughout the cafe and online from Friday 9 May. All enquiries to info@myloart.co.uk Free Entry.
Somborne Sessions
Present - Man The Lifeboats Live in Concert
Saturday 10 May
From 8pm
Kings Somborne Village Hall
Recreation Gound, Romsey Road, SO20 6PP
Man The Lifeboats began life in a shanty-punk folk moshpit in 2016. Skinny Lister and Holy Moly & the Crackers were the
two bands that ignited the fire, lit the spark, and blew the roof of the Garage that night. Proof that live music can indeed be life-changing! Now they are an established band, ploughing their folky furrow on the festival circuit, winning over audiences and drawing comparisons to Bellowhead, Waterboys, Oysterband, the Levellers, and of course, those folk-punk heroes the Pogues. Tickets: £16 in advance, £18on the door. (Advance tickets available up to 1pm on day). Tickets available from: https:// www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/ select/nlrrepvxvkxk
Romsey WI Literary Day 2025
Saturday 10 May
From 10am to 4.30pm
Crosfield Hall, Romsey, SO51 8GL
Inspiring Women through words. Celebrating 50 years of Romsey WI. A one-day event celebrating women writers from the 17th to 21st centuries. Dr Jonathan Healey, Kellogg College: Busy Stateswomen & zealous shesaints: Revolutionary Women in 17th Century England. Dr Kim Simpson, Chawton House Library: Sisters of the Pen; women authors we don't know but should. Laura Bates, activist, writers, speaker; Founder of the Everyday Sexism project. Hosted by local author, Louise Morrish - Goldfinch Books popup bookshop. Find out more at https://romseywi.weebly.com.
Wallop Artists Exhibition 2025
Sat 10 to Sun 11 May
From 10am to 5pm
Wallops Village Hall, SO20 8EX
Wide range of Media and Styles. Preview evening (opened by Pip Mc Garry). Friday 9 May from 7pm to 9pm.
Hampshire Choral Festival - Verdi Requiem and Derek Beck - The Life of Universal Song (First perfomance)
Saturday 11 May
From 7pm
The Anvil, Churchhill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR
Botley Choral Society, Compton & Shawford Festival Choir, Overton Choral Society, Sarisbury Choral Society, Twford Singers, Winchester City Festival Choir - Conducted by John Sutton. Tickets £30, £25, £20 (all include a £4 booking fee). Concessions for under 16s and full time students. Available NOW from the Anvil Box Office (anvilarts.org.uk).
Longstock Water Gardens special open evening In support of St Nicholas’ Church,
Friday 16 May
From 6pm to 8pm
Longstock Park Road, Stockbridge, SO20 6EH
Leckford. Make a date in your diary for an early summer evening stroll around the world famous Longstock Water Gardens and support St Nicholas’ Church, Leckford. The Leckford Estate, part of the John Lewis Partnership, has kindly given permission for a special opening in aid of the church. Set across the river valley from the Water Gardens, St Nicholas’ Church in Leckford, which is known locally as the ‘John Lewis Village’, is a jewel of a little church, whose records date back over 1,000 years. We hope you can join us at these beautiful gardens whilst supporting this treasured Grade II* listed church. Tickets will be available at the gate. For more information contact David Barnes on 01264 810516. Tickets £15, to include a glass of wine. Free Parking.
For more events see page 14 of this magazine >>
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Bespoke Kitchens & Interiors
Bespoke sizing - Media walls, boot rooms, custom offices, installed by ex-shipwright joiners with exceptional attention to detail
Happy Kitchens have a unique approach when it comes to kitchens and custom spaces in the home. We use excellent quality materials which are fitted by exshipwright joiners, who used to fit the woodwork on Super Yachts. That in itself is unique in our industry but then add in the fact that we are bespoke, but don’t charge the inflated prices that your highend high street showrooms do, gives us the recipe for your perfect home solution. This is why we are one of the highest rated home improvement companies on HOUZZ, beating all the top names you might recognise when walking down your high street.
We have never had less than a 5 star
review and have won the HOUZZ best of service award every year since it has been running. The staff at HOUZZ reference us to other companies as to how customer service should be done. Many of our customers have used us 2 or 3 times due to moving house or tackling other projects in their existing houses.
We do not have a template for design and take a fresh approach with every customer. It is important to take all the best ideas a customer has, then bring in the experience we have to offer, and often our ideas will be completely different to any other companies as we are innovative and bespoke. We often hear that customers have had designs and quotes that all look the same, are boring and
• Change as much or as little as you you'd like
• Free no obligation quotation
• Free design service for new projects
unexciting, yet expensive. This is because most high street ‘kitchen designers’ are just salespeople with no idea on how a kitchen works.
So whether you need an amazing Kitchen, Utility, Bedroom, Coffee Bar with custom pod storage, Office, Media Wall or Living Room storage we can help. The design visits are free of charge, and we can quote on the same day. Also Ben loves design, so often at no extra charge, he will help you choose paint colours,
One of the top reviewed companies on Houzz, offering free home design visits
light fittings, bar stools, artwork and can even recommend great pots and pans.
Our customers will often use us again, and recommend us to Family and Friends. The quote from the review above was from a customer who has chosen us twice, and their parents also have a
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.
• Change as much or as little as you you'd like
• Free no obligation quotation
• Free design service for new projects
Happy Kitchen, and two of the parents' friends.
The biggest compliment we get from our customers is always around our attention to detail and often bringing something completely different to the table. If you are still unsure after reading this, go and read some of our reviews on our Happy Kitchens Houzz profile, and do a search of kitchen companies on there by review rating, we are always close to the top of the list.
Out-of-the-box thinking, bespoke design features, and friendly staff with excellent attention to detail are just a few of the reasons you should call us today. If that isn’t enough please do remember that the design visit is free of charge, so you have nothing to lose.
8 year winner of the Best of Houzz award and one of the highest reviewed kitchen companies on Houzz in the UK
Village & Rural Estate Agents
Amport | Price £1,975,000
A substantial and unique detached residence in a secluded location on the outskirts of the village providing spacious high ceilings and beautifully presented accommodation providing five large en suite bedrooms a separate two bedroom guest cottage and private southerly facing landscaped gardens
Goodworth Clatford | Price £1,250,000
A substantial beautifully presented and recently re-thatched period cottage providing spacious family accommodation with tremendous character and good ceiling heights standing in about a third of an acre with a south westerly aspect quietly situated on the edge of this sought after village
Evans and Partridge have been based in the attractive Test Valley town of Stockbridge since 1991, specialising in the sale of village and rural property throughout the surrounding area.
Amport | Price £1,100,000
A stunning modern barn featuring excellent ground floor living space and four bedrooms with well appointed bathroom Standing in a secluded large plot with southerly facing garden all set well back from the road in a peaceful streamside setting
East Cholderton | Price £795,000
An impressive and unique architect designed property offering stylish traditional and well appointed accommodation with an attractively landscaped south westerly facing garden in a pretty rural setting.
A modern house providing spacious, light and airy accommodation including three double bedrooms with a well enclosed private garden securely situated within a small exclusive development with access to mature communal gardens with gate to country walks. Professional | Dedicated | Successful
Stockbridge | Price £1,175,000
An exciting opportunity to acquire this spacious late Victorian chalet style home offering great scope and potential standing in about 4 acres on the outskirts of Stockbridge with a south westerly aspect and open far reaching views
Middle Wallop | Price £500,000
Email: property@evansandpartridge.co.uk
Entries are now being accepted for the 2025
Test Valley Business Awards!
Following a well-attended launch event at Kimbridge Barn near Romsey, we are pleased to announce that the entries for the Test Valley Business Awards 2025 are officially open (Entries close 11 May 2025). This year, there are 8 categories to choose from, each sponsored by some of the region’s most accomplished and well-established businesses.
The Award Categories and Gold Sponsors for the Test Valley Business Awards 2025 are as follows:-
• Business in the Community Award sponsored by Barratt David Wilson Homes Southampton
• Business Innovation and Technology Award sponsored by University of Southampton Science Park
• New Business Award sponsored by Monopoly Insurance
• Rural Business Award sponsored by Addis Locksmiths & Property Maintenance Limited
• Small Business Award sponsored by Parker Bullen LLP
• Sustainability Award sponsored by Test Valley Borough Council
• Young Business Person Award sponsored by Stannah
• Corporate Business Award sponsored by Absolar
Two categories are still available for sponsorship: the Business Person Award and the Business Employer Award. With nominations just opening for all categories, now is an excellent time to get involved and support the awards.
To enter, businesses are encouraged to visit: www.tvbawards.org.uk/ enter and complete the simple online form regarding their business based on the relevant category judging criteria, which can also be found on the Awards’ website. Entering the Awards is free and takes just a few minutes to fill out the online form. If selected as a winner, businesses could enjoy a full 12 months of promotion across the Test Valley. Now in its 21st year, the Test Valley Business Awards—run by a dedicated team of volunteers—has become a well-established platform for celebrating business excellence. It’s a fantastic opportunity to highlight the many new and small businesses in the region that contribute valuable work but often go unnoticed. “We are incredibly grateful for the generous support of our sponsors, who share our commitment to recognising the exceptional businesses and entrepreneurs that make the Valley thrive,” said Katie Brooks, Chairman of the Test Valley Business Awards. “Their contributions ensure that we can continue celebrating success and inspiring future business leaders”.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tvbawards/ or https://www.facebook. com/search/top?q=test%20valley%20business%20awards or visit our website www.tvbawards.org.uk
For Sale, Privett, South Downs National Park
An exceptional five-bedroom barn conversion rebuilt in 2006 to modern standards, offering spacious, light-filled accommodation with character features including vaulted ceilings, exposed timbers, and underfloor heating.
Set in 0.7 acres of south-facing gardens, the property includes a detached one-bedroom annexe and car barn with office and store.
The ground floor features a welcoming reception hall, large openplan kitchen/dining room with Aga, utility/boot room, three bedrooms, a bathroom, shower room, and cloakroom. Upstairs is a stunning sitting room with a contemporary log burner, two galleried areas, and two ensuite bedrooms including the principal suite.
Outside, landscaped gardens include a stone sun terrace, summer house, and formal lawned areas.
Located in the sought-after village of Privett in the South Downs National Park, just 6.6 miles from Petersfield and 13.2 miles from Winchester, both with direct trains to London. Surrounded by beautiful countryside and close to excellent schools including Bedales and Winchester College.
For full details or to arrange to view contact Kate Porter on: 01264 312832 katep@countryhouescompany.co.uk www.countryhousecompany.co.uk
Welborne is springing into life!
Welborne is a beautifully designed new generation sustainable garden village, located between the South Downs and the historic Hampshire coast, with an extensive network of diverse green space ready for you and your family to enjoy.
Taking the time to explore Welborne Garden Village could mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by carefully landscaped pathways, guiding you through a blend of modern living and timeless charm.
The brand-new Welcome Centre is opening very soon, and this is where you can experience an immersive digital tour of the garden village. You will be enchanted by the homes' aesthetics, where heritage features have been thoughtfully crafted to reflect the architectural appeal of Hampshire’s historic market towns, including Alresford, Stockbridge, and Wickham.
Stunning homes & state-of-the-art technology
Welborne homes seamlessly combine classic Hampshire design with state-of-the-art technology. The integrated water source energy system efficiently heats and cools each home and, with electric vehicles in high demand, every home is equipped with accessible EV charging points. For added peace of mind, all houses are fitted with 1-gigabit fibre technology, allowing seamless speed upgrades to accommodate hybrid or remote working.
Hundreds of acres of green space
More than half of Welborne’s area will feature expansive parks, an ancient woodland, play areas, and sports fields, all connected by over 12 miles of cycleways and pedestrian routes. In total, Welborne will encompass 444 acres of accessible public green space, equivalent to 277 Wembley-sized football pitches. To experience these green spaces in person, a visit is highly recommended.
A fresh start awaits…
To find out more about this exceptional garden village, visit our website today: welborne.co.uk.
We look forward to welcoming you to your new home soon.
May/Jun Events
Stockbridge CinemaAnora (18)
Friday 16 May
From 7.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
Sean Baker's multi-award-winning film is an audacious, thrilling, and comedic variation on a modern day Cinderella story. Mikey Madison captivates as Ani, a young sex worker from Brooklyn whose life takes an unexpected turn when she meets and impulsively marries Vanya, the impetuous son of a Russian billionaire. Information common to both films. Tickets £6.00 on sale from 1 May via www.stockbridgecinema.org.uk or by telephone from TicketSource 0333 666 3366 (no additional charge). Please visit our website for full details of all films.
Broughton and Bossington Horticultural Society Plant Stall
Saturday 17 May
From 2pm
Broughton Village Hall, High Street, Broughton, SO20 8AX
The Society’s annual plant stall has established itself as a popular opportunity to purchase good flower and vegetable plants in anticipation of the sowing season at very reasonable prices.
Summer Exhibition 2025: 'Listen To The Quiet'
Sat
Gallery
The Paddock, Rookery Lane, Broughton, SO20 8AZ
Theme based on the vital importance of biodiversity, urging
us to care for the “quiet voices… the systems that sustain life on Earth.”
Andover Gardening Fair
Sunday 18 May
From 10am to 3pm
Andover High Street, SP10
Plant market, gardening workshops, children's crafts, live music, street foor and drinks. Join us for Andover’s annual Gardening Fair, where you can buy locally grown plants, shop to garden accessories and enjoy other activities on Andover High Street.
Romsey Community Cinema - Small Things Like These
Monday 19 May
Subtitled (3pm), None (7pm)
Romsey Town Hall, 1 Market Place, SO51 8YZ
While working as a local merchant to support his family, Bill Furlong (Cillian Murphy) discovers disturbing secrest kept by the local convent - and uncovers truths of his own - forcing him to confront his past and the complicit silence of a small Irish town controlled by the Catholic Church. Tickets £6.50 available online at: www. romseytc.org.uk. Or available in person at Romsey Town Council Offices.
Stockbridge Cinema The Brutalist (18)
Wednesday 21 May
3pm and 7.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
Escaping post-war Europe, visionary architect László Toth arrives in America to rebuild his life, his work, and his marriage to his wife Erzsébet after being forced apart during wartime by shifting borders and regimes. See Friday 16th Stockbridge cinema for ticket information.
Broughton Open Gardens
Sunday 22 June
From 2pm to 5.30pm
Broughton Village Hall, High Street, Broughton, SO20 8AX
Eight gardens at the southern end of Broughton Village History & Archive Exhibition. Tea, coffee & home-made cakes. Admission £8 per person. Under 16 years free Tickets from Broughton Village Hall on the day. In aid of St Mary’s Church.
Baroque Materpeices
- University Music
Bournemouth Choir and Orchestra
Saturday 24 May
From 7.30pm
Romsey Abbey, Church Lane, Romsey, SO51 8EP
Marcello: Oboe Concerto , Vivaldi: Gloria, J.S Bach: Magnificat. Tickets £20 | £16.50 (students and U18's 50% concession). Tickets avaiable online at: ticketsource. co.uk/musicromsey or at the door.
Live Music evening with Lila Tristram
Thursday 29 May
From 7pm to 9.30pm
Meadow, 9 High Stret, Stockbridge, SO20 6EX
“Lila & Friends” - an evening of acoustic folk music with musician Lila Tristram on vocals and guitar, plus a guest musician. Join us
for an evening of live music to feed the soul with an open bar and a seasonal Meadow supper menu. Table bookings for groups recommended, walk ins welcome.
Romsey Chamber Music Festival
Saturday 31 May
From 7.30pm
Romsey Abbey, Church Lane, Romsey, SO51 8EP
Romsey Chamber Music Festival opens in Romsey Abbey with a programme that explores mortality and resilience. From the dramatic urgency of Schubert’s Erlkönig to the swirling intensity of Ravel’s La Valse. Gavin Bryars’ anthem Jesus’ Blood Never Failed Me Yet closes the evening with a poignant reminder of hope amidst life’s uncertainties. For more information and tickets visit: www.romseychambermusic.com
Beggar's Belief in Concert
Saturday 31 May
Doors 7pm, starts 7.30pm
Mottisfont Village Hall, School Lane, Mottisfont, SO51 0LX
Cash donations for concert. Refreshments available. Limited places - book yours by contacting PAT on 01794 340609.
Church Fete and BBQ
Saturday 21 June
From 12.30pm to 3.30pm
The Manor, Winchester Road Chilbolton SO20 6BQ
Fun Dog Show, BBQ of locally sourced meats, Beer and Pimms Tent, Tea and Cakes, Ice Creams, Grand Draw, Bottle Tombola, Stalls and Games for all the Family Further information from Lesley Kent 01264 860584.
Include your event FREE odf charge in the Forum Magazine. Simply send your details to editor@ forumpublications.co.uk. Please note we cannot guarantee publication.
Chilbolton
Easter Bunny hops back to Osborne School thanks to Bluebird Care
Easter came early at Osborne School this week as Bluebird Care Winchester, Eastleigh & Romsey arranged for the Easter Bunny to make a surprise return for a second consecutive year.
The festive treat saw chocolate eggs hand-delivered to every student and staff member at the Winchester-based special school, in a gesture that underscores Bluebird Care's ongoing partnership with Osborne.
The pupils were filled with excitement and delight as the Easter Bunny hopped through the school to spread joy and chocolate treats.
A Life of Care: Margaret’s Remarkable Journey as a Live-in Carer
Margaret has spent years as a live-in carer, transforming the lives of those she cares for with her kindness, expertise, and unwavering dedication. Recently, she shared her journey with us, caring for those within the heart of the Test Valley, offering a glimpse into the meaningful moments that make her role so fulfilling.
Margaret recalls her time with Vicky, a client living with Alzheimer’s and arthritis, as one of her most meaningful experiences. Through tailored nutrition and personalised care, Vicky’s condition improved so dramatically that she was able to return to her first love—writing poetry. “It felt like caring for the most precious person in the world,” Margaret says.
Another treasured memory comes from her five years with Bill, whose family still considers Margaret a close friend, years after his passing.
Osborne School, which supports children with learning and physical disabilities, has been in partnership with Bluebird Care since 2023. Beyond the Easter excitement, the care provider has become a cornerstone of the school's daily life, providing pupils with expert personal care, moving & positioning, and nutrition & hydration.
This is a unique partnership that has transformed the school's care provision. With Bluebird Care's dedicated team managing all care needs, teaching staff have been freed up to devote more time on the children's education and grades.
Sonia White, Headteacher of Osborne School, said: "We’re thrilled that Bluebird Care remains so committed to our school. Beyond their daily support, this event is just one example of the special moments they create for our pupils - it's a highlight that brings beaming smiles to their faces, and our teaching staff too."
Norman Murphy, Managing Director of Bluebird Care Winchester, Eastleigh & Romsey, said: “It was a joy to see the children's smiles light up the school again, and it's a real pleasure to continue working so closely with Osborne to provide exceptional care and support to their pupils."
Tel: 01264 310 888 andover@bluebirdcare.co.uk www.bluebirdcare.co.uk
“These relationships stay with you,” she shares, “they’re built on love and trust.”
Margaret finds joy in the small daily moments— sharing a meal, seeing a smile, or being warmly welcomed back after time away. “It’s those simple things that remind me why I do this,” she says.
Want to See How a Live-in Carer Can Support Your Loved One?
Access Care, proudly based in the heart of the Test Valley, specialises in matching experienced live-in carers—like Margaret—with clients who wish to remain in the comfort of their own homes and stay connected to their local community. Whether it's companionship, help with daily routines, or more specialised care, their dedicated team is here to support every step of the way.
Access Care - A trusted, family-run, local independent agency delivering bespoke, flexible, and discreet Live-in Care for over 30 years. Ideal for short-term convalescence or long-term support.
Call 01264 319 399 or visit www.access-care.co.uk
The Easter Bunny teams up with Bluebird Care to bring egg-stra special treats to Osborne School pupils, pictured alongside Headteacher Sonia White.
It’s good to be home
We’re here so your loved one can stay at home, where things are familiar and they feel at ease. We’re here for you too, because when a loved one needs care, it can be a challenging time in your life as well.
Of course, it’s much more than that. They also get 1-to-1 support with everyday errands. Help with washing and feeding, someone to swap stories with, and a new friend who can help them see old friends. All this in a safe environment, with familiar routines, that can delay age-related illnesses such as early onset dementia.
You also get complete confidence that they are receiving premium support from a provider that’s proudly rated Outstanding by the CQC.
For outstanding-rated home care throughout the Test Valley, contact us today 01264 310 888 andover@bluebirdcare.co.uk
It’s not just putting Mum at ease. It’s giving you peace of mind.
Thinking of My 90-Year-Old Self
‘What are you training for?’ This is a frequent question I am asked when in conversation about the distances I’m running or the weights I am lifting. Yes, I often have a running event or two in the dairy, but really my main focus, the driver and the purpose to my training schedule (and daily routines) is healthy longevity. I know it’s a massive buzz word and ‘thing’ at the moment, but there is some very sound science and research behind beginning your preparations to old age well before you get there!
Experts like Dr. Stacy Sims, Dan Buettner, Bryan Johnson, Sachin Panda, and the team at ZOE Science & Nutrition have some impressive knowledge on how to live long and well. Here’s the game plan:
Sleep Like It’s Your Superpower
Tip: Get regular early morning light for 30 minutes to set your ‘countdown timer’ for your evening melatonin release. Lights out by 10 p.m. and no screens 60 minutes before bed.
Bryan Johnson, the biohacking billionaire, guards his sleep like it’s a priceless artifact. Why? Because high-quality sleep regenerates your brain, balances hormones, and boosts immunity. Create a sleep sanctuary: cool room, blackout curtains, and maybe a little white noise.
Eat for Your Biology
Tip: Try a gut microbiome test like ZOE’s to tailor your diet. ZOE Science & Nutrition proves that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to food. Some people thrive on oats; others get a blood sugar spike. Swap ultra-processed snacks for fiber-rich whole foods
(think less meat, more lentils, berries, leafy greens and ferments). Your future gut will thank you.
Lift
Heavy Stuff, Especially If You're Female
Tip: Strength train 2–3x a week using weights or resistance bands. Being able to carry 75% of your body weight for one minute is correlated with with ability to live independently as an 80 year old.
Dr. Stacy Sims is all about women training “for their physiology.” As we age, we lose muscle by 5% per decade from the age of 30, so resistance training is non-negotiable if we want to keep moving without a walker.
Wine with Friends, Not Alone
Tip: Schedule weekly social rituals such as dinner parties, walking clubs, church groups, sports events, family lunches or book clubs. Dan Buettner’s Blue Zones research shows that longevity is baked into community. The longest-living people have tight-knit social circles and strong routines.
Eat Earlier, Sleep Better
Tip: Time-restrict your eating (TRF) to 8–10 hours during the day. Dr. Sachin Panda’s research on circadian rhythms shows late-night eating messes with your metabolism. His studies demonstrate that TRF improves insulin sensitivity, reduces obesity, and may extend lifespan. Try eating breakfast at 8 a.m. and wrapping dinner by 6 p.m. Your energy levels (and sleep) will thank you.
Stay Curious
Tip: Keep learning new things, such as chess, knitting, or even salsa. Learning how to lift weights with great form and technique ticks two big boxes!
Mental fitness is real. Keep your brain on its toes with new skills, try Duo-Lingo to learn a new language, a daily crossword or maths puzzle, or even a musical instrument. It’s like a gym workout for your neurons.
Bottom line? Visualise your 90-year-old self. Build the habits now so that someday, you’ll be the legendary grandparent doing pushups at your birthday party. As Dr Stacy Sims said, ‘I’d rather be the oldest person in the weights room, than the youngest person in the care home’.
Would you like a ‘longevity plan’ your 90 year old self would approve of? Visit our website to find an easy to follow weekly plan.
Emma Wightman
www.the-sop.com
reception@the-SOP.com
Stockbridge Osteopathic PracticeHigh Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HF
STOCKBRIDGE
Espalier,
All trees and shrubs
Design, landscaping and ongoing
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
River Dental, 1 Clarendon Terrace, High St, Stockbridge, Hampshire, SO20 6EY
Gardening Tips for May
By Jill Walmsley, Education Trustee of Hampshire Gardens Trust
May is a month of real progress and promise in the garden. At the Hampshire Gardens Trust, we’re committed to nurturing an appreciation for our horticultural heritage - but that starts with our own outdoor spaces. With warmer temperatures, longer evenings, and plants bursting into life, May is the perfect time to be outside, fine-tuning your garden and preparing for a summer of colour, produce, and wildlife. Here are some seasonal tips to help your garden flourish this month.
1. Plant Out Tender Plants
By mid to late May, the risk of frost has usually passed across most of the UK. This means you can safely plant out tender annuals, vegetables, and bedding plants that were started indoors. Think tomatoes, courgettes, runner beans, and summer flowers like petunias and marigolds. Harden off seedlings first by gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions over a week.
2. Support Climbing Plants
Fast-growing climbers such as sweet peas, clematis, and runner beans will need support as they shoot upward. Install canes, trellises, or wigwams early to avoid disturbing roots later. Tie in stems gently with twine to help guide their growth.
3. Sow Successive Crops
For a steady harvest throughout the summer, sow quick-growing crops like lettuce, spinach, radishes, and carrots every few weeks. This ensures you won’t have a glut all at once and keeps your veg patch productive.
4. Prune Spring-Flowering Shrubs
Once shrubs like forsythia, chaenomeles, and flowering currants have finished blooming, prune them back to encourage strong new growth and plenty of flowers next year. Remove any dead or crowded branches and shape the plant gently.
5. Mulch for Moisture
As the weather warms, moisture loss becomes an issue. Mulch your borders and veg beds with compost, bark chips, or well-rotted manure to help retain water, suppress weeds, and keep the soil healthy.
6. Deadhead for More Blooms
Regularly deadhead spring and early summer flowers such as tulips, daffodils, and pansies to keep beds tidy and encourage new blooms. This helps the plant conserve energy and can extend the flowering period.
7. Keep an Eye on Pests
As plants become more lush, so do pests. Watch out for aphids on roses,
caterpillars on cabbages, and slugs around young seedlings. Use natural pest control methods where possible—introduce beneficial insects, use barriers, or try organic sprays if needed.
8. Mow Mindfully
Grass grows quickly in May, so regular mowing is necessary—but try not to cut it too short. Leave a patch uncut or mow paths through longer grass to support insects and wildflowers. It’s also “No Mow May,” a movement encouraging gardeners to let their lawns grow wild to benefit pollinators.
9. Water Wisely
Start watering more consistently, especially new plantings, pots, and hanging baskets. Early morning or evening is the best time to water, reducing evaporation. Use water butts or recycled household water to conserve resources where possible.
10. Plan Garden Visits & Get Inspired
May is a wonderful time to visit gardens across Hampshire and beyond. Seeing planting combinations, structural features, and mature trees in different settings can inspire fresh ideas for your own space. The Hampshire Gardens Trust runs events, lectures, and open garden days that offer plenty of inspiration and learning opportunities.
Bonus Tip: Prepare for Pollinators
Include nectar-rich plants such as lavender, foxglove, alliums, and catmint to attract bees and butterflies. Creating a wildlife-friendly corner—even a small one—helps support biodiversity and brings added movement and beauty to your garden.
May is a rewarding and lively month for gardeners. From planting out summer crops to deadheading spring blooms, it’s a time of nurturing and planning. With a little regular care and thoughtful planting, your garden will reward you with colour, produce, and wildlife through the months ahead.
If you’re keen to connect with other garden lovers or learn more about garden history and horticulture, why not become a member of Hampshire Gardens Trust? Visit hgt.org.uk to explore lectures, open garden events, and performances throughout the summer.
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Sand lizard and adder among New Forest reptiles benefitting from restoration work
Three of the most threatened reptile species are set to receive a huge boost to their recovery rate in the New Forest.
Sand lizard, smooth snake and adder are particularly vulnerable to threats such as climate change, recreational pressures and fires, which can severely damage their habitats.
The Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust (ARC) is creating and restoring heathlands in the Forest to enable the recovery of these species and improve the resilience of their habitats.
To date, much of the focus has been on creating a more open heathland by clearing overgrown gorse, creating ideal spaces for reptiles to forage, breed, and bask.
The restoration work is part of the £1.3million Species Survival Fund project, which is funded by the UK Government and delivered by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) is leading the project in conjunction with ARC, Freshwater Habitats Trust (FHT), Hampshire and Isle of Wight
Wildlife Trust (HIWWT), New Forest Commoners Defence Association (CDA) and Wild New Forest, to reverse the loss of habitats and species by enhancing 250 hectares of land for nature – the equivalent of 350 football pitches.
Sand lizard and smooth snake are both European-protected species, while adders are classed as nationally vulnerable.
‘All three are facing several threats both nationally and locally, impacting the range and distribution of populations, and the habitats that support them,’ said ARC project officer Eryn McDonald.
‘This type of work helps to restore lowland heathlands to a favourable condition, supporting the species that rely on these surroundings.
‘It also helps link up the habitats from inside the Forest to the surrounding areas, creating a bigger, better, more joined up landscape.’
The New Forest National Park is home to all six of the UK’s native reptile species: adder, sand lizard, slow-worm, grass snake, common lizard and smooth snake. All six will benefit from the restoration work.
The project is funded by the Government’s Species Survival Fund. The fund was developed by Defra and its Arm’s-Length Bodies. It is being delivered by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with Natural England and the Environment Agency.
Working in partnership enables experts to combine their knowledge, expertise and resources with each other to ensure the best possible impact is made on the landscape.
Discover the unique New Forest
Since its creation by William the Conqueror around 1079 for the pursuit of the ‘beasts of the chase’ – red, roe and fallow deer and wild pig – many historical events and influences have shaped the landscape and cultural heritage of the New Forest. Grazing by commoners’ animals still shapes and maintains the New Forest we all know and enjoy, making it accessible and very special. Although common rights were once widespread in Britain and Europe, they have been lost in many areas due to the enclosure of common land and the demise of former royal forests. The New Forest remains one of the few extensive lowland commons where rights are still widely practised and a strong commoning culture continues.
For more information visit: www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/
Adder (credit ©Chris Dresh)
A worker for ARC creating more open heathland for reptiles
Supergreen Risotto with Broccoli, Beans & Watercress
SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS
300G RISOTTO RICE
1 ONION, CHOPPED
1 BROCCOLI, CHOPPED FINELY
100G GREEN BEANS, CHOPPED
80G WATERCRESS, CHOPPED
750ML VEGETABLE STOCK
40G PARMESAN (OMIT IF VEGAN)
1TBSP THYME
SALT & PEPPER
OLIVE OIL
A SQUEEZE OF FRESH LEMON JUICE, TO TASTE
METHOD
Prepare your vegetable stock in a saucepan and keep on a gentle simmer. In a separate large pan, fry the onion in plenty of oil until soft.
Add the thyme and green beans, allowing to soften a little before adding the risotto rice – this should absorb any moisture in the pan.
Add a ladle of vegetable stock to the pan and stir, allow it to fully absorb before adding any more and repeat the process, one ladle at a time, until the rice is fully cooked.
When the rice is close to cooked, add the broccoli and cook through.
Stir through the watercress, add the parmesan and enjoy!
Recipe courtesy of the Watercress Company www.thewatercresscompany.com
ABBOTTS ANN VILLAGE HALL
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Broughton Community Shop, Post Office and Cafe
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Post Office Opening Hours
Weekdays: 9am - 5pm Saturday: 9am - 12:00pm Sunday: Closed
Tel: 01794 502495 Facebook: @BroughtonVillageShop www.broughton.shop
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Joinusfor Fish&Chipsnight, 5.30pmeveryFriday -8pm orTakeaway'savailable calltobookatable inthebistro
We are an independent deli filled with a mix of great quality ingredients as well as the everyday essentials located in Stockbridge High Street
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To book a table or for more information please email david@thymeandtidesdeli.co.uk. Spaces are limited, deposit required. Smoked cod's roe aioli, confit garlic, dehydrated cherry tomatoes, crackers
Steamed Atlantic cod, shellfish orzotto, brown shrimp butter
Thyme & Tides cheese board
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Winchester City Museum
Hampshire Cutural Trust
Nestled at the edge of the South Downs, Winchester holds an unrivalled position in the history of England. Ancient capital of Alfred the Great’s Anglo-Saxon kingdom, powerhouse of medieval monarchs, resting place of Jane Austen and immortalised as Wintoncester in Hardy’s Wessex, the city and its heritage are unique.
Located in the heart of the city, just a stone’s throw from the Cathedral, City Museum tells the story of Winchester from its origins as an Iron Age trading centre to the last journey of Jane Austen and Victorian glory.
Any trip to the museum starts with the Winchester Model, a breathtaking scale model of the city in Victorian times. The model was built by former County Planning Officer Roger Brown, who left it as a legacy to the city and its people. It is a faithful and unique record of Winchester from 1870, when the population was less than a third of what it is now, when the Guildhall was yet to be built, and when it would be another 30 years before the statue of King Alfred would be erected on the Broadway.
In 1901, the city won the right to host a truly monumental statue of King Alfred the Great by Hamo Thornycroft. The erection of the statue was part of a wider Alfred Millenary, which commemorated the death of Alfred a thousand years before, although unfortunately, the organisers were a couple of years late, as Alfred died in 899. That aside, the unveiling was a huge success, with large crowds turning out and the statue has since become a symbol of Winchester.
One of the major players in winning Winchester’s right to host the statue was the newly elected mayor Alfred Bowker, who was only 27 at the time and was a member of a
local family of solicitors. His campaigning and tireless work to secure the statue and make the Millenary celebration happen was rewarded with his very own silver replica of the statue, which was presented to him by members of the local millenary committee. The replica statue, or maquette, was later donated to Winchester City Council by Bowker’s family, and it still forms an important part of the Winchester City Council civic silver. It can be seen on display in City Museum, along with other objects from the Alfred Millenary.
In May 1817, Hampshire’s most famous daughter, Jane Austen, travelled to Winchester to seek medical help. On 18 July 1817, aged just 41, she died at 8 College Street and was buried in Winchester on 24 July. On permanent display in City Museum are some of her few remaining personal possessions: two of her purses, embroidered by her own hand, and her personalised ivory spool case. Donated by a descendant of Jane Austen and now in the collections cared for by Hampshire Cultural Trust, which manages City Museum,
the author’s silk pelisse coat is one of a handful of items that survive today that belonged to Jane and can be traced directly back to her. In 2025, the year that we celebrate the 250th anniversary of Jane’s birth, the pelisse coat will be on display for select periods throughout the summer, and the museum will also hold a series of Jane Austen themed talks and events.
Travelling back in time, visitors to the upper floors of the museum will discover more about the city’s early origins. By the 3rd century AD, Winchester, or Venta Belgarum as it was known, was the fifth largest city in Roman Britain. The Venta Belgarum gallery tells the tale of Roman Winchester and how its inhabitants lived and died. Visitors can view a near-intact mosaic discovered at Sparsholt Roman Villa, see exquisite Roman jewellery and look into the face of a man who died in Winchester 1700 years ago. During Saxon times, the Old English name for the city was Wintanceaster. In the gallery dedicated to the 1000 years of history spanning the Anglo-Saxon and medieval periods are jewellery in the unique Winchester Art style, sculptures and coins, that sit alongside more everyday objects including a child’s leather shoe and a medieval mayor’s toilet seat.
Winchester City Museum, The Square, Winchester, SO23 9ES
Tel: 01962 863064 historicwinchester.co.uk
Opening Times: Mon - Sat from 10am - 5pm Sun and Bank Holidays: 11am to 5pm
St Swithun’s students join the fight against period poverty
Led by one of our sixth-formers, St Swithun’s students are helping in the fight against period poverty by sewing reusable period pads for refugees worldwide.
Lower-sixth student Miya G introduced The Pachamama Project—a volunteer-run initiative tackling period poverty in refugee crises—to St Swithun’s and now leads a lunchtime sewing club. Every Wednesday, students from Year 9 to Year 13 drop in to the textiles classroom to help create the pads, which will be distributed to communities in need across Ukraine, Uganda, Pakistan, Lebanon, South Sudan, and more.
“We’re supporting The Pachamama Project, which was started by university student Ella Lambert and her mum during lockdown,” Miya explained. “It’s been great to see students across the school get involved”.
To gather materials, Miya reached out to local businesses and community groups for fabric donations. Grateful for the community’s generosity, she said, “I received bags and bags of fabric from businesses or people who just love sewing and had spare material at home.”
Each pad is designed to last up to five years, with an inner lining made from anti-pill fleece. To fund this essential material Miya organised a school bake sale at breaktime and raised over £200.
have
worked together to complete more than 30 pads for their first shipment. Joanna M, another student involved in the project, said, “Anyone at school can get involved and help—it doesn’t matter if you have sewing skills or not. It’s easy to learn, and everyone feels good knowing they’re making a difference.”
The World Bank estimates that over 500 million young women and girls globally struggle daily to manage their menstrual health. By getting involved with The Pachamama Project, St Swithun’s students are not only learning new skills but are also playing a part in tackling this global epidemic.
St Swithun’s Headmistress, Jane Gandee, said, “We are passionate about providing an environment that prepares our students to go out and make their mark on the wider world. That involves not only achieving excellent academic results, but building confidence and resilience. In Miya’s case, she is already making a huge difference to communities in need and inspiring others to follow her lead.”
Head of Sixth Form, Nick Fyfe, commented, “We are always delighted to see our sixth form students pursuing volunteering opportunities with such passion and purpose. Leadership and concern for society are two of our six pillars of sixth form and Miya exemplifies both of those.”
In the sixth form at St Swithun’s, whatever a student’s interests might be, we help them to develop their character, skills, and self-confidence, so they can pursue their chosen pathway with curiosity, passion and mindfulness for the wider community.
St Swithun’s School Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1HA T: 01962 835700 www.stswithuns.com
The club has been popular with girls of all ages at the school, and over 20 students
Know your future with cashflow modelling
‘Am I saving enough money?’ ‘When can I afford to retire?’ ‘How long will my pension last in retirement?’ Most of us have asked ourselves at least one of these questions. They’re difficult to answer because they not only depend on your individual circumstances – your current lifestyle, your existing financial position, your future plans – but also on events that may be outside your control, such as inflation and investment performance.
You don’t need a crystal ball to understand your future finances. By using cashflow modelling, a financial adviser can help provide clarity and help answer these all-important questions.
What is cashflow modelling?
Cashflow modelling helps you understand how long your money could last in retirement. Your adviser will provide you with a cashflow illustration, mapping your savings and investments, year by year.
The personalised illustration considers factors like your current saving and investing, spending patterns, target retirement date and future aspirations. It also factors in inflation, investment performance, and your life expectancy.
How could cashflow modelling help me?
Cashflow modelling provides a powerful insight into your future finances and can help you see if your goals are achievable and whether you need to make any changes to your plans or saving and investing habits.
What if my plans change?
Cashflow modelling is especially useful when it comes to exploring the impact of any potential changes to your plans. Your adviser can help you to ‘rehearse’ your future by exploring how different scenarios might affect your financial position.
Some of the scenarios may include:
• Delaying or bringing forward your target retirement date
• Taking more or fewer holidays in retirement
• Investing a greater proportion of your money in the stock market
• Accessing your pension via income drawdown instead of buying an annuity
• Gifting money to children and grandchildren
What happens next?
Once you’re clear on your future goals, your financial adviser can create a personalised financial roadmap to help you achieve your ambitions.
Cashflow modelling isn’t a once-and-done exercise. Circumstances change, and it’s important that these changes are reflected in your financial plan.
Life may feel uncertain, but your finances don’t have to be. To gain clarity over your future finances, book a consultation with one of our financial advisers today.
We live and work local to you. We would be delighted to help you and your family achieve financial clarity and stability.
Matt Lyth
Wealth
Manager
E: matt.lyth@brewin.co.uk
Kirsty Simpson Wealth Manager E: kirsty.simpson@brewin.co.uk
46 Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8RY
T: 01962 798000
W: brewin.co.uk/our-offices/winchester
The value of investments, and any income from them, can fall and you may get back less than you invested. This does not constitute tax or legal advice. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. You should always check the tax implications with an accountant or tax specialist. Investment values may increase or decrease as a result of currency fluctuations. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy.
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I work in a person-centered way, which means that the sessions are led by you. You decide what we talk about and when. I will provide you with a safe and non-judgemental holding environment, in which to explore what is troubling you. We will work together collaboratively, to find the best way forward.
The room I use here in Longstock is in a peaceful rural setting, surrounded by farmland and countryside with a relaxing view of the river. Free off road parking is available.
So, Its Begun!
By Yinnon Ezra MBE
The reorganisation of local government in Hampshire has started. The first stage which is the election of a Mayor responsible for everything from transport, public safety, strategic planning -and more is well underway. The date of the election has been approved by Government and already individuals are putting themselves forward. Stating the obvious - this position with an adequate support structure is dependant on the quality of the person who is elected. They need to have credibility, vision and be able to make things happen. There are some now well know examples of such people in the North of England who seem to have made a difference. They will need to secure an adequate budget and ensure that Government does devolve the necessary powers to get things done. Their relationship with the new Unitary Councils who may not share their political views will be crucial to making this role a success.
The next stage which requires the County Council and all the District Councils to come up with a plan for the new structure of local government has already started. Some of the signs are really encouraging – the principle of ensuring that whatever the geographical configuration tax payers get value for money, the commitment to provide top quality services including adequate involvement of local communities are all really positive. There is an opportunity here to put political and other
baggage aside and focus on what delivers the best for local people. Engaging residents in this is important as testing what really works on the ground will determine if all this change will deliver something better.
There are other signs that are not so encouraging. Some Leaders of Councils are already complaining about the prospect of inheriting the yearly struggle that Hampshire County Council has with balancing their budget. Others are worried about inheriting the debt that some Councils have built up over the years. The “rural” “urban” debate -if the new Councils are just an expansion of the existing cities/towns will the rural voice be heard. Another concern is the natural tendency to postpone or stop important local projects as if delayed they will be someone else’s responsibility in the future.
One of the main objectives of all this is delivering efficiency savings – some of this
will inevitably come from job losses. Elected Councillors many who have given years of service will find themselves no longer required. The “corporate memory” of their service could be lost forever. This “brain drain” although creating an opportunity for new blood will inevitably be an issue in the more sensitive services where experienced practitioners are essential. It is also vital with the innovative use of technology to look afresh at how services to local communities are delivered -doing things differently.
Expanding the role of Town and Parish Councils -they vary in size and quality but engaging them as elected representatives of local communities to perhaps deliver more will help with the inevitable criticism that the bigger Unitary Authorities are remote.
The voluntary sector – large County wide bodies to small local groups - that do vital work in communities. From supporting the most vulnerable to looking after the environment – and much more. This third sector has also seen a huge financial squeeze over the years but some radical thinking with investment can perhaps see them do more. This together with stabilising the financial support for those services like Libraries, footpaths, Country Parks and Arts, Heritage and Culture is essential to maintaining our identity and improving the quality of life.
They must not be forgotten!
Wallop Artists Exhibition 2025
Wallop Artists is a group of amateur and professional Artists who share an interest and passion in a wide range of art.
We hold monthly evening and afternoon demonstrations in The Wallops Parish Hall, free to all members, where well known guest artists offer tips and hints, anecdotes and art history, whilst demonstrating in their chosen media. These friendly occasions offer a good opportunity for meeting and making new friends over a cuppa and cake. This time also allows for us to engage with the guest artists, view their works, and sometimes have the chance to buy their merchandise. Members can also invite friends to join them at these meetings for just £5.
We also run several full day workshops each year, where a professional artist leads participants through a very practical day. The individual advice and critique is a good way to be guided and supported, which helps us develop and learn different approaches and techniques. We gain inspiration and build self confidence in a variety of media and styles.
This year we are proud to promote and welcome you to our open exhibition which runs from the preview evening on Friday, 9th and then 10 - 5, Saturday, 10th and Sunday, 11th of May. Members have the opportunity to showcase and sell their work, which attracts visitors and buyers from a wide area.
We are really excited to have Pip McGarry opening the Friday evening Preview. Pip is a well renowned leading wildlife artist, and Artist in Residence at Marvell Zoo. Here is your chance to meet and chat to him.
Details of this years programme can be found on our website, and you can also follow us on our Facebook page.
We welcome new members. If you are interested in joining us, or would like to come for a taster. Please contact Christine Mussellwhite at Committee@wallopartists.com
ANNUAL ARTISTS EXHIBITION 2025
Wide range of media and styles
WIDE RANGE OF MEDIA AND STYLES
Wide range of media and styles
Preview Evening. Friday 9th May 2025. 7-9pm
Open Exhibition
Preview Evening. Friday 9th May 2025. 7-9pm
Saturday 10th May 10:00am – 5pm
Preview Evening (opened by Pip Mc Garry) Friday 9 May - 7pm to 9pm
Open Exhibition
Open Exhibition
Sunday 11th May 10:00am – 5pm At Wallops Village Hall, SO20 8EX Refreshments Raffle Free Entry and Parking
Saturday 10th May 10:00am – 5pm
Sunday 11th May 10:00am – 5pm
Saturday 10 & Sunday 11 May - 10am to 5pm AT WALLOPS VILLAGE HALL, SO20 8EX
At Wallops Village Hall, SO20 8EX
REFRESHMENTS | RAFFLE | FREE ENTRY AND PARKING
Refreshments Raffle Free Entry and Parking
“You OK?”
The Good, The Bad and The Ugli Truth
© Lucia Foster-Found 2025 www.luciafosterfound.com
Concerned tones floated through the bathroom door, and over the sounds of running water. She hadn’t realised she’d made a noise as the icy jets hit her sleepy, early morning skin.
“Fine thanks!” she gasped as she held her face under the frigid deluge. She was reading a new self-help book. It was about reaping the benefits of the body’s own feel-good chemicals. After a seemingly endless winter of long nights and short days, (there’d been a lot of coughing) she was helping her body to help her.
When she emerged from the shower, pinkskinned and slightly traumatised by flashbacks of her schooldays, she had to admit she was bursting with energy.
“Are you alright?” Himself called after her as she trotted outside, still wearing her dressing gown.
“I’m psyched for the day ahead!” she declared from the garden where she was enthusiastically uprooting weeds. “Cold showers, phone-fasting and daylight. I’m only on the Dopamine section, but I feel better already! You should read it too.”
Himself looked dubious as she sang, “I feeeel good, dodeedo, I knew that I would, dodeedo!” off-key, and jogged indoors to get dressed. By early evening, though, her good mood had evaporated. She marched into the house and threw her keys on the table.
“Good day darling?” Himself asked with slight trepidation in his voice.
Her day, it transpired, was a tale of potholes and bad drivers. So no. It could not be described as good, she explained vociferously as she paced the kitchen and vented.
“40. Everywhere. I was stuck behind this car that went 40 in a 60. But also 40 in a 30. And in a 20. And after they sped through the villages,
the swerving began. I caught up, but couldn’t overtake them. Although, can you blame them for avoiding the potholes – the roads are awful. I saw a man with a flat tyre taking a picture of a real shocker, must have been a foot deep.” Himself offered her a glass of wine.
“Oh, should I? I haven’t read that chapter in the book yet. And isn’t alcohol a depressant?”
“But red wine is good for you. Practically medicinal,” he encouraged, hoping for a tranquil evening and quietly putting his faith in the soothing raspberry hues and soporific influence of an Argentinian Malbec.
As they sat in the garden with glasses in hand, she sighed. “The book makes such a lot of sense. Phone fasting, for example. I’ve been scrolling too much. Those mini-videos of dogs are hilarious, but addictive – and time-wasting.”
Himself looked up from his phone and thrust it into his pocket. “Yes. Quite,” he agreed hastily. “But,” she stretched out her feet and leaned back in her chair (the Malbec was having the desired calming effect), “it’s hard to keep up with what’s good and what’s bad. Dairy is ‘good’. Dairy is ‘bad’. Real coffee is ‘good’. Too much caffeine is ‘bad’. So, if you buy de-caf, does that push the coffee into the processed, aka ‘bad’, bracket?” To be fair, the wine was taking the edge off her concern. “Mmn..” Himself was thinking of his own coffee habit and wondering how much was too much.. “And liver! Our daughter was appalled when I told her I ate liver when I was pregnant with her. It’s a no-no now – but back then..” She shrugged and had another sip.
“We can still eat it though, can’t we?” Himself was very partial to a liver and bacon casserole. “I mean, you don’t have to worry..?” “Um. No darling, that ship has sailed.” Done
two round-the world-cruises at least, she thought as she looked at his concerned face. Bless. Her menopause may have completely passed him by.
Good old HRT.
“Anyway, I’ll be paying more attention to the labels on foods from now on. More than five ingredients should make one pause for thought.” Which was probably everything in a snack packet, including Himself’s favourite, roast chicken crisps, she thought, sadly. And decided not to mention it.
“But that reminds me,” Himself topped up her glass, “the three fruit marmalade you made? I’ve bad news.”
“But there are only four things in it!” she exclaimed. “Oranges, lemons, ugli fruit and sugar. It’s not ultra-processed. It’s delicious. And it took me ages..” She surveyed him frowningly over the top of her wine glass. Himself had expressed a wish for some thick cut homemade marmalade –like his mother used to make.
“It does only have four ingredients. It’s not ultraprocessed. It is delicious. And… it’s better than the marmalade my mother used to make – sorry Mum.” He looked sheepishly skywards.
“So, what’s the problem?” She was confused. If it was all those things, not to mention a fraction of the price of shop-bought, what was the problem?
“Transpires that ugli fruit is a grapefruit and my medication and grapefruit aren’t compatible, I’m afraid. So, it might be good, but it’s bad for me.” Himself started to laugh, “And that’s the ‘ugli’ truth – gettit? The ugli truth…” he howled, wiping his eyes.
She watched his hilarity, only mildly (thanks to the Malbec) peeved that she’d have to give away her labour-intensive marmalade. And anyway, laughter was good for you, she thought. The book said so.
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Walk the Test Way for your Chosen Charity
How do I Take Part?
1. Decide which charity you want to walk for?
2. Decide how far you/your group wish to walk?
St Mary Bourne - 25.5 miles (41 km ) Bus 7.00am
Wherwell - 16 miles (26 km) Bus 9.00am
Stockbridge - 11 miles (18 km) Bus 10.30am
Horsebridge - 8 miles (13 km) Bus: 11.30am
Mottisfont - 5 miles (8 km) Bus 12.15pm
NOTE: Walkers will check in at Romsey Crosfield Hall. Bus departs from Crosfield Hall to your starting point Walkers from St Marybourne need to finish walk by 5.30pm (approx 3mph).
3. Register online and pay the registration fee
If you are planning to use Just Giving (recommended) then first set up your Just Giving page which must be payable to The Rotary Club of Romsey Test Trust Fund.
Next action is to register: Need team name (if you have one) and walker details. Pay registration fees with a credit or debit card.
Early Bird - Up to 31st July: Adults - £13, Under 18 - £7
After 31st July: Adults - £16, Under 18 - £9
NB: Under 18 must be registered by their parent/guardian.
4. Start fundraising
Use your JustGiving page (important: must be payable to Rotary Club of Romsey Test Trust Fund) or download sponsorship sheets.
5. On walk day...
All walkers must check in at Romsey Crosfield Hall at least 20 minutes before your bus time. Bus transfers you to your starting point where you begin your walk to Romsey's Memorial Park.
6. Collect and submit your sponsorship money Yay!! you did it! Now it is time to shout about your triumph! Collect & submit sponsorship sheets money to Rotary Don't forget to tag us in your socials @walkthetestway
The Rotary Club of Romsey Test is proud of 'Walk the Test Way', our annual fundraiser. Launched in 2003, since then we've raised over £1M for charities. Each year the event draws interest from many groups (e.g. scouts, schools, companies) as well as smaller groups, families and individuals who fund raise for their favourite charities, whilst walking the beautiful Test Way.
For more information and to take part visit: www.walkthetestway.org.uk - Registration opens early May Walk takes place on Sunday 28th September
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Councillors support parents in Test Valley with £2000 grant
Test Valley Borough Councillors have awarded a £2,000 Multi-Ward grant to the PEAS (Parents, Engagement, Advice and Support) group, helping to fund books and resources for a vital 10-week Nurturing Programme aimed at supporting parents across the borough.
The course, run by trained Parent Group Leaders through The Centre for Emotional Health, equips parents with the knowledge and skills to improve their emotional wellbeing and strengthen family relationships. Over the next year, the programme is set to benefit 180 families in Test Valley, offering practical tools to build healthier and happier homes.
The Local Children’s Partnership and local schools have also contributed additional funding, ensuring that the necessary resources are available for participants.
Councillor Iris Andersen praised the initiative: “We are proud to support the PEAS group and the incredible work they are doing for families in Test Valley. Investing in emotional health not only benefits parents but also creates a positive ripple effect for children and the wider community.
“This grant, along with the match funding, will help ensure families have access to the right support and resources.”
Deputy Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Maureen Flood, added: “Strong families build strong communities, and this course is a fantastic example of partnership working to deliver meaningful support. I’m delighted that TVBC is able to play a part in helping 180 families access this programme, and I look forward to seeing the positive outcomes it will bring.”
The council’s community engagement officers will also attend events run by the PEAS group throughout the year, offering additional support and signposting for families.
Test Valley Borough Council Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 8:30 - 17:00 Friday 8:30 - 16:30
Tel: 01264 368000 www.testvalley.gov.uk
