An elegant former farmhouse, lovingly renovated to provide fantastic accommodation in a sought after Test Valley village.
Kitchen/dining room, boot room, two reception rooms, five bedrooms, two bathrooms, courtyard garden, parking and garage.
Guide Price £525,000
A charming period cottage, immaculately presented only a short walk to Stockbridge High Street. An ideal downsizer or weekend bolt hole.
Open-plan kitchen/living area, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, courtyard garden. Off-road parking for one car.
ABBOTTS ANN GRATELEY
SOLDINUNDERONEWEEK
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 £500,000
A gardener’s paradise located only a short distance from Grateley station and fast train to Waterloo. A delightful property with an abundance of period features with countryside views, in need of a slight upgrade. Entrance porch, cellar, kitchen, two reception rooms, two bedrooms, bathroom, garden room, parking and detached garage.
Director
Steve
Advertising
June Events
Broughton Talks again
Tuesday 3 June
From 8pm
Broughton Village Hall
High Street, Broughton, SO20 8AX
Talking about Art - Roche Court Sculpture Park and Galleries offer an experience of world class contemporary art and architecture almost on our doorstep, set in a beautiful landscape. Come and find out where it is, what it does, and why you need to know about it. A new short film, and a talk by award winning art historian, Dr.Timothy Revell of the National Gallery, London. Tickets £10, students under 19 free from www. ticketsource/broughton-villagehall or Broughton Community Shop. Bar from 7.30pm. In support of Broughton Primary School’s art education.
Disco - Top 10 hits from 60s, 70s, 80s
Saturday 7 June
From 8pm
Braishfield Social Club, Common Hill Rd, Braishfield, Romsey, SO51 0QF
We have a decades disco. Top ten hits from the 60s 70s and 80s with DJ Mike. Come join us for a dance and singalong! Braishfield Social Club is a small members club that welcome new members with a wide range of beers ciders spirits and soft drinks. Tel: 01794 368458 or email: braishfieldsocialclub@hotmail. co.uk
Chilbolton Village Hall Film
Friday 6 June
From 6.30pm (film 7.30pm)
Chilbolton Village Hall, Chilbolton, Stockbridge, SO20 6AT
Featuring Renee Zellweger, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Leo Woodall, Colin Firth and Hugh Grant After jumping back into the dating pool, Bridge finds herself
caught between a younger man and her son’s science teacher. Tickets £6.00 in advance from Beryl Lawrence on 01264 860618 E-mail: dlaw@davidlawrence associates.co.uk Or £7.00 on the door (if available). Tea/Coffee and biscuits available. Wine, Beer and Choc Ices on sale.
Stockbridge Antiques Fair
Saturday 7 June
From 9.30am to 4.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall
Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
We offer a wide range of Decorative, Interesting and Unusual items including good quality Furniture, Paintings and Prints, Lighting, Silver, China and Glass, Jewellery and Militaria. Free Admission & Free Parking. We will also buy. Contacts: Instagram - carolfentumantiques - Carol - 01264 335769 / 07870 432805, Steve - 01722 712267 / 07915 663251
“Roses And Wine Summer Evening Drinks”
Friday 13 June
From 6pm to 8pm
Houghton Lodge Gardens
Houghton, Stockbridge, SO20 6LQ
In aid of all saints’ church, Houghton. Come and join us for a summer evening drinks party and an opportunity to wander around this magnificent walled garden when the roses will be stunning and the garden at its best. Tickets £20.00 per person (children under 16 free) from Iona Priestley. iona@old-rec.co.uk or pay on the day. Drinks and canapes and a garden themed raffle.
Stockbridge Cinema
Friday 13 June
From 7.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall
Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
I'm Still Here (15) One afternoon in 1971, Rubens
Paiva, a former congressman and outspoken critic of Brazil's newly instituted military dictatorship, was taken from his home in Rio de Janeiro by government officials, told nothing more than that he must give a "deposition" to authorities, and disappeared. Information common to both films - Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall SO20 6HE. Tickets £6.00 on sale from 1 June 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.
Whitparish Village Fete Celebrating V.E Day
Friday 13 and Saturday 14 June
Fri (6-11.30pm), Sat 12 - 4pm
Memorial Groundf, Common Rd, Whiteparish, Salisbury, SP5 2SU
Friday 13 June - Bands Night/ Hog roast from 6pm to 11.30pm. Friday 14th Celebrating V.E Day. Amazing grand prizeas. Live music and dancing. Tug of war, Art exhibition, Classic cars, tractors and landrovers, No dogs allowed, BBQ and bar, Circus entertainment, Cake competition. Adults £2, Children £1, Family Tickets £5, Under 5's Free.
Good Festival
Sunday 15 June
From 10am to 4pm
Dummer Down Farm, Dummer Down Lane, Dummer, Basingstoke, RG25 2AR
Good Times, Good Living, Good Causes. Activities include: Slip & Slide *, Sharky & George Alpaca Walking, Axe Throwing Assault Course, Live Music, Circus Skills, Under 5’s Fun, Bubble Football, Bushcraft, Dog
Show, Scavenger Hunt, Local Artisan Stalls, *Remember a towel and Swimmers. Tickets on sale at: goodfestival.co.uk. Proudly Supporing Hampshire Medical Fund. To donate now, please text HMFGF10 (£10) or HMFGF20 (£20)
Stockbridge Cinema
Wednesday 18 June
From 5pm to 7.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall
Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
A Real Pain (15) - American Jewish cousins David and Benji travel to Poland to see their late grandmother's childhood home. Benji (Kieran Culkin), an outspoken and free-spirited drifter, starkly contrasts David (Jesse Eisenberg), a quiet and practical husband and father. Their adventure takes a dark turn when the odd couple's old tensions resurface against the backdrop of their family history. Kieran Culkin won the Best Supporting Actor award at the BAFTA, Oscars and Golden Globes for his performance in the film. For full details see Friday 13 June showing.
Andover Summer Wellbeing Fair 2025
Sunday 22 June
From 10am to 2pm
High Street, Andover, Hampshire
This summer find out how to improve your wellbeing with activities to try and organisations to advise you. Find out what's on your doorstep that can contribute to the 5 ways to wellbeing - be active, keep learning, take notice, give and connect.
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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'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'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 | Offers invited £2,650,000
A large detached five bedroom family house with detached two bedroom annexe / cottage standing within beautiful grounds of just over 4 acres in the heart of this attractive and sought after village.
Timsbury | Offers invited £1,500,000
The principal portion of a fine manor house with extended accommodation of nearly 7,000 sq ft including some of the elegant main rooms, the main hall and staircase, together with a range of garaging and outbuildings, potential for double bank fishing on a section of former canal fed directly by the river test, situated in about 2.5 acres of mature gardens and grounds.
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.
Quarley | Offers invited £1,350,000
A unique country property providing extensive and versatile accommodation all beautifully presented and full of character. Perfect for three generational living with a detached two bedroom, three bathroom annexe. All set within a private landscaped garden with plenty of parking and a triple garage.
Penton Grafton | Price £850,000
An outstanding and beautiful thatched period home standing within a large attractively landscaped secluded garden enjoying a peaceful position on the edge of the village.
Edge of Andover | Offers invited £975,000
A most attractive and characterful detached family house with home office, garden room, gazebo, gym and garage all beautifully presented and well maintained standing in private landscaped gardens in a rural setting yet within walking distance of the town.
A unique and characterful older style family house that has been extended and completely professionally modernised by renowned local builders set in the heart of the village with amenities within close walking distance. Professional | Dedicated | Successful
Porton | Price £860,000
Email: property@evansandpartridge.co.uk
Will butterfly populations "bounce back"?
Creating a wildlife haven in your garden could help
With lighter evenings and trees in full blossom, it's clear that spring has arrived - a perfect reminder to start getting your garden ready for Butterfly Conservation's Big Butterfly Count.
After the declaration of a Butterfly Emergency last year, it's more important than ever to create a wildlife-friendly garden.
The Big Butterfly Count, running from July 18 to August 10, invites everyone in the UK, from countryside dwellers to city residents, to participate in counting butterflies.
Research shows that 80% of butterflies have declined since the 1970s and the Big Butterfly Count is a quick and easy way for people to take action for their survival.
Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation, said: “Following last summer’s Big Butterfly Count results, which showed a significant decline in the number of butterflies participants observed, we need everyone to get involved this year.
“Will butterflies bounce back or will their populations continue to decline following a terrible year in 2024?
“Your counts will help to give us a clear picture and anything you can do to make your garden more butterfly-friendly increases the chances of butterflies surviving, and your chances of seeing them in your garden.”
Creating a garden that supports wildlife doesn’t have to mean a messy, overgrown space. By making mindful choices, you can create a beautiful garden, terrace or balcony, soak up some vitamin D, and make a positive impact on pollinators like butterflies and moths. Here are five simple ways to transform your garden into a wildlife haven:
1. Be a grower, not a mower
If you have a lawn consider letting some of it grow wild! Long grass provides a rich habitat for insects and allows some species of butterflies and moths to complete their lifecycle by providing a place to lay eggs and food for caterpillars. It can also allow nectarrich plants like clover, bluebells, and dandelions to bloom. If you’re not keen on an unmown lawn, consider a more structured approach. Try mowing a curvy path through an area of long grass or sow a mini wildflower meadow to help boost butterfly populations through a designated patch that allows wildlife to flourish. Simple changes can create a vibrant, wildlife-friendly space.
2. Make your garden a stepping stone for wildlife
Choose plants that attract wildlife and provide nectar and pollen for insects. Plants like buddleia, verbena, lavender, and marjoram provide nectar throughout the butterfly season. Colourful planted pots can look beautiful in patio gardens and on balconies as well as provide a resting place and sustenance for butterflies. With the right plants butterflies might even make your garden their permanent home!
3. Avoid pesticides and insecticides
While pesticides may target unwanted pests, they also harm beneficial insects like bees, ladybirds, and butterflies. Even “pollinatorfriendly” products can contain pesticides, which are toxic to insects. Organic methods such as companion planting are a great alternative. For example, planting basil near tomatoes repels aphids, while nasturtiums attract beneficial insects and deter pests. By carefully selecting plants, you can create a healthy, chemical-free ecosystem in your garden.
4.Deadhead flowers
By removing dead flowers, you encourage your plants to continue blooming, providing a longer food source for pollinators. Plants like buddleia, lavender, and cosmos benefit from regular deadheading and will keep your garden alive with butterflies through the summer. Plus, spending time outside not only helps nature but helps reduce stress, improve mood, and improve sleep quality!
5. Avoid peat-based composts
Peat bogs are critical habitats for many native species, including the Large Heath butterfly. The UK’s peat bogs have formed over thousands of years but they aren’t inexhaustible. Peat extraction is a major threat to these delicate ecosystems, so switching to peat-free composts - made from composted bark, coir, or wood fibre - can make a huge difference. If possible, consider making your own compost from vegetable scraps, grass clippings, and coffee grounds for an ecofriendly alternative.
With these simple, thoughtful actions, you can create a beautiful, butterfly-friendly garden that supports wildlife all year round. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these tips will help you contribute to the well-being of pollinators and enjoy the beauty of butterflies on your own doorstep.
Getting involved in the Big Butterfly Count really is as simple as 1, 2, 3 following the steps on Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count webpage at www.bigbutterflycount.org
1. Get ready with the free Big Butterfly Count app or by downloading our butterfly ID chart
2.Join in between July 18 and August 10
3. Add your counts via the website or app
The Reorganisation of Local Government “Where do we fit in?”
By Yinnon Ezra MBE
Irecently attended an excellent morning seminar where nearly thirty or so people from a number of local voluntary organisations met to discuss the future. The organisation who got everyone together was an umbrella group which supports this important sector – more about this later. As the word suggests many of those involved are volunteers and work with a variety of individuals and needs. From protecting the environment, to supporting people with chronic conditions and their carer’s. The variety is enormous – they vary in size as do their objectives.
There is a huge volunteer force for good that silently goes about their vital tasks relentlessly. Some are funded by grants from public bodies but all rely on donations and gifts. The value of this contribution to the Nation’s quality of life and welfare is hugely appreciated but sometimes taken for granted. Governments have been outspoken about the value of this “third sector” often in glowing terms, but unfortunately it seems to stop at warm words. The strength of the voluntary sector is in its diversity – yet it is also its greatest challenge. For trying to bring them together to speak with one voice is both difficult and sometimes impractical.
Also, some of these organisations, often registered charities have evolved into large grant-aided bodies with many paid staff, now essential to providing specialist health
and welfare support regularly receiving referrals from the NHS. Other have contracts with local Councils for providing community transport to assistance with day care. Financial constraints and increased workloads have driven many of these organisations to share back-office support to improve efficiency and increase capacity. The creation of various local often Borough wide organisations to co-ordinate and support smaller groups are now an essential part of this tapestry.
As the clock ticks fast on the creation of both an Elected Mayor and a set of Unitary Authorities with a population of half a million. The close relationship between the existing Boroughs and “their” voluntary groups will inevitably cease to exist or change radically. Some of the current District Councils have done amazing things in localities with staff - often a single talented person - who nurture and support local neighbourhood communities. This
investment has proved invaluable in helping to create a real sense of place. It is difficult to see how this will be replicated in the newer larger structures unless this is considered and advocated for now. Maybe a role for Town and Parish Councils?
Unfortunately, the difficulty of the voluntary sector to speak with one voice will inhibit its ability to ensure those leaders in the new local government arrangements hear their voice. Not just their need for financial support but an acknowledgement of the contribution they all make by taking the pressure off essential stretched statutory services. In effect many now provide this by default!
In the coming year the political parties in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight will be choosing their candidates for the position of elected Mayor. Later these same groups will be going through the process of appointing those who can stand as Councillors in the new Unitary Councils. The Voluntary sector with one integrated united voice needs urgently to try and engage these people. They will have a huge list of competing demands to deal with. Perhaps publishing a document which clearly illustrates what they do and the kind of support they require in the future could help. Possibly even asking candidates to “put on record” their support for this essential work!
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Jun/Jul Events
The War In Ukraine
Friday 27 June
Doors open 7.30pm
Goodworth Clatford Village Club, SP11 7RE
Talk begins at 8pm. A personal reflection by Lt Gen (Retired) Tim Evans CB CBE DSO of what has happened, is happening and might happen in Ukraine since the Russian invasion. Tim Evans served for 36 years in the British Army and since retirement has been a Risk Management consultant, which included working with Transparency International in Ukraine looking at corruption in defence when Poroshenko was in power. The invasion of Ukraine both in 2014 and 2022 surprised many people. The questions many are discussing are - why did it happen, what has been the effect, and most importantly what may happen next. These questions will be explored at: Tickets are £10 and can be bought from Clatford’s Village Store or online at www. trybooking.com/uk/ESBU There will be a paying bar.
Stockbridge Open Gardens 2025
Sat 28 and Sun 29 June
From 2pm to 6pm
Stockbridge, Hampshire, SO20 6HF
This year gardens at the eastern end of the village will be open to the public; tea and homemade cakes will be served on the church lawn to the accompaniment of live music. Garden Tickets £10, tea and cake £5: available from St Peter’s church on the day - Under 16s free. Free parking at the western end of the village. For further information call 01264 586846.
Andover Ladies Choir Present Jubilate!
Friday 4 July
From 7.30pm
The Lights, West Street, Andover, Hants, SP10 1AH
Tickets Adult £12, Child £6. from www.thelights.org.uk In aid of Parkinsons UK. Its Eurovision Song Contest day! We'll be perfoming songs by one of the most famous Eurovision winners ABBA. Hear them at the Lights Andover for Jubilate! Songs of Joy and Celebration.
William Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing
Thur 10 to Sat 12 July
From 6pm, Starts 7pm
Church Farm Tithe Barn, West Dean, Salisbury, SP51JG
Directed by Miriam Higgins. Join us for Shakespeare’s definitive comedy, Much Ado About Nothing, in the beautiful medieval barn in West Dean, Wiltshire. Don't miss the chance to experience this vibrant, laugh-out-loud performance in a beautiful unique setting. If you have any issues paying via Ticket Docker please email us at helloleaninghouse@gmail.com For tickets visit: http://rb.gy/ jyvfi8
Why Minimal Shoes Matter Beyond the Feet: The Foot-Glute-Pelvic Floor Connection (Guys, keep reading, you have a pelvic floor too!)
Minimal shoes aren't just beneficial for foot and ankle health, they can also significantly influence how the rest of the body moves, especially the lumbar spine, hips and pelvis and the supporting core muscles. A crucial part of this relationship involves the pelvic floor, glutes, and how your body loads during movement.
The pelvic floor is constantly under load, generating tension that tends to pull the sacrum (tailbone) inward toward the pelvis - a position called counternutation. While this inward pull is natural, it needs an equal and opposite pull outwards for pelvic stability. That’s where the glutes come in. Strong glutes help create tension in the opposite direction, offering balance and support that bones and ligaments alone can't provide.
If you have an ‘always-working pelvic floor’ paired with a ‘barely-working butt’, things in the pelvis will be inefficient and dysfunctional, such as a fatigued and weak pelvic floor. To generate more effective force in the pelvic floor, you need glutes to act as a stabilizing anchor. Just like the bicep needs a weight or resistance for leverage to produce a strong contraction, the pelvic floor muscles need a stable sacrum to pull on in order to be able to contract powerfully. Weak or underactive glutes reduce this stability, limiting pelvic floor contractions, function and efficiency.
So, where do the feet come into play?
The mechanics of walking link the function of the feet to that of the glutes. For the glutes (specifically the gluteus maximus) to contract during walking, the thigh must extend behind the pelvis. This motion, called hip extension, is crucial for efficient, glute-powered movement.
However, many people have limited hip extension due to either poor joint mobility or a pelvis that’s perpetually tucked under. When the pelvis is tucked, much of the hip’s available motion shifts to the front of the body, shortening the range of effective glute activation
- referred to as the "glute zone." See the picture (thank you to Katy Bowman).
Footwear can make this worse. Shoes with elevated heels, rigid soles, or slip-ons all interfere with natural foot movement. This in turn affects hip and pelvic mechanics by shortening the glute zone and reducing overall walking efficiency.
In essence, minimal shoes help restore natural foot function, which supports better hip mobility and glute engagement. This cascades upward to benefit pelvic floor function and overall movement quality.
Just a word of caution; if you’re new to minimal shoes, don’t ditch your old ones all at once. Transition slowly to let your feet, ankles, and posture adapt safely.
The right footwear doesn’t just protect your feet, they are the foundations for a stable pelvis, stronger glutes, and a more resilient pelvic floor. For osteopaths, addressing what’s on the feet may be the first step in improving what’s happening at the core.
Visit the website for a step-by-step guide on transitioning to minimal shoes, including foot strengthening exercises and a comprehensive list of recommended brands.
Specialising in women’s health, sports and paediatrics. A gentle hands-on approach for newborns, through to adulthood and in pregnancy
01264 810028
Midsummer
Midsummer. Fast approaching with longer, lighter evenings and early dawns, the wheel of the year turns and the sun nears its zenith.
Since Neolithic times many peoples have noted the longest day. Ancients built monuments that aligned to the sunrises and sunsets on the solstices that come but twice a year. A five-thousand-year-old temple in Malta is one. A Mayan pyramid, another. The pyramid at Giza aligns with the sun on midsummer, heralding the Nile flood and the New Year. The North and East sides are so illuminated by the light from the rising sun, it’s said that that the structure looks to split in two. Even in ancient China it held great significance since workers were given the day off. A bit of a crowd pleaser, that –powers-that-be take note.
Say “Solstice” and you think of Stonehenge; an iconic ring of stones in an ancient Wiltshire landscape bubbled with barrows. Its unmistakeable outline never fails to slow the traffic passing, as people are distracted by its unignorable presence. And get a freebie look. Those who wish to see the summer solstice sunrise behind the heel stone and creep into the heart of the circle: the druids, the pagans and the
folk connecting with their inner, prehistoric drumbeat - make the pilgrimage to the stones and wait through the shortest night. No chairs or alcoholic drinks are allowed, apparently. As ‘Flaming June’ often doesn’t live up to its moniker and the impressively exposed site is, well, impressively exposeddress warmly and be prepared to sit on the cold ground.
In Puerto Rico, midnight swims are the thing and there are the alliterative bonfires in Barcelona. Jumping over aforementioned bonfires too – sounds dangerous to me, but the highest jump predicts the height of the crops to come. What crops those might be, in these days of dwarf wheat for higher yields, I’m not certain. Although Austria and Norway are part of the bonfire brigade too, these are lit to keep the demons away because Midsummer is a time, like Halloween, when ‘tis said, the veils between our world and the world of magic are thinnest. Shakespeare knew. It’s a time that fairies and spirits are able to contact us mere mortals and in Iceland, it is said that elves appear. Scandinavians, ever stylish and crowned with flowers, dance the maypole and walk in the dew.
I will, as I always do, get up in the darkness before dawn and watch for the sun to appear
over the horizon. I probably won’t light a bonfire and upset the neighbours - and it’s unlikely I’ll make the pilgrimage to the sea for a chilly swim. One of these years I may brave the crowds (and cold) at the ring of stones and hope for a clear sunrise. I’ll wander amongst their lichened roughness, like the child I was before the fences went up.
But I will, for sure, walk barefoot in the garden, with the dew on my toes and half an eye out for Peaseblossom and Cobweb. I’ll sip hot chocolate as a nod to the Mayans, and think of pyramids bathed in light.
If you celebrate, however you celebrate and wherever you celebrate the summer solstice, remember this… imperceptibly, little by little, the days will get shorter from now on. Those cold, wet, dark afternoons, hastened by the loss of an hour in October (I do wish they’d bin that), are but a midsummer night’s dream away. We’ll be driving to work in the dark, driving home in the dark, with only the beacon of light and hope that is Christmas to guide us through the wintry weeks.
Until the wheel of the year turns and winter solstice brings the rebirth of the sun and the hope of those long, light evenings and early dawns once more.
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
It’s not just putting Mum at ease. It’s giving you peace of mind.
River Dental, 1 Clarendon Terrace, High St, Stockbridge, Hampshire, SO20 6EY
Community Garden Grants
In 2011 the National Garden Scheme launched it’s Community Garden Grants - since then £1,202,360. has been donated to over 500 community projects.
The 2025 Grants have recently been announced and I am pleased to say that a total of £8,212. has been awarded to three projects within Hampshire - they are:- YMCA Southampton: Dementia Friendly Hampshire - based in Havant: The Healthy Haven Southampton. The total amount donated in 2025 to Community Projects was a staggering £294,260. This went to a total of 117 community garden projects across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
To help us raise funds for the Community Garden Grants and our annual Beneficiary Donations, all you have to do is simply visit an NGS garden - just one visit helps. Following are a couple of suggestions for the end of June and a group visit in July.
Mill House
Vyne Road, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, RG24 9HU
Opening: Thursday & Sunday 26th & 29th June from 2pm to 6pm. Pre-booking available.
Admission: £5.00 children free Cashless Payments available.
Refreshments: Home-made teas (in aid of Bramley Church + 10% to NGS)
Planted on heavy clay, the gardens of Mill House are relatively young, but occupy an historic site. They surround a recently rebuilt watermill which generates domestic electricity. Rural in feel, despite
its proximity to Basingstoke, it features a number of differing zones. Tended solely by the owners, the structure and planting has been chosen to facilitate easy maintenance (by hand, powered machinery and sheep) to save time. Static and moving water provide interest and a haven for waterfowl, pied wagtails, swans and kingfishers.
Hambledon House
East Street, Hambledon PO7 4RX. Open: By Arrangement until September for Groups between 10 & 30 visitors. To arrange a visit and discuss requirements, contact the owners on: 02392 632380 or dianahartdyke@gmail.com https://findagarden.ngs.org.uk/garden/10818/hambledon-house
3 acre partly walled plantsman’s garden for all seasons. Large borders filled with a wide variety of unusual shrubs and perennials with imaginative plant combinations culminating in a profusion of colour in late summer. Hidden, secluded areas reveal surprise views of garden and village rooftops. A haven of peace, shared with birds, bees and butterflies, unseen or overlooked.
I highly recommend the‘Virtual Garden Visit’ - simply click on the link above and then click on Virtual Garden Visit. PB
Hopefully there is something above, which might peak your interest, and prompt you to visit one of our gardens, thus helping raise much needed funds for our National Garden Scheme charity.
Pat Beagley (Head of Publicity)
National Garden Scheme - Hampshire pat.beagley@ngs.org.uk
Hambrooks Landscaping
Creating and maintaining beautiful gardens for over 50 years
LOCAL, PROFESSIONAL, TRUSTED & RELIABLE
SUMMER’S IN SIGHT Book your FREE Garden Consultation now
Landscaping Services :
• Garden layouts & plans
• Patios, driveways & walls
• Decking, fencing & pergolas
• Lighting & water features.
Garden Maintenance Services :
• Planting plans & designs
• Pruning & hedge trimming
• Lawns, ponds & border care
• Regular or seasonal visits
Robotic lawn mowing - is it the future?
Many of us are challenged with time. Work is busy and private lives are manic and finding time to cut the grass, and keep on top of it, is a challenge. Fuel costs have risen, and modern fuel doesn’t last long leading to potential fuel issues with engines.
Robotic mowing provides many benefits for managing lawns and green open spaces. Modern satellite guided machines use a network of satellites to find their location, and together with a fixed base station on land they now feature an accuracy of 1cm
and so no longer need a wire in the ground to guide the mower. Grass loves being cut little and often, and the mulching process provides valuable nutrients to improve the grass quality. Robotic mowers are designed to cut little and often and so there is no need to collect the grass.
Robotic mowers are lightweight and can therefore stay on the ground mowing long after conventional ride on and pedestrian machines can. They are powered by a lithium-ion rechargeable battery which is charged from a simple docking station so they are silent, with no emissions and some amazing features; oh, and they can now mow in straight lines!
A T H Machinery, based in Broughton, Stockbridge are specialist distributors of the KRESS robotic mowers and KRESS battery powered gardening and landscaping tools for domestic, professional and commercial users, covering right across Winchester and surrounding villages, Test Valley Region and Hampshire. We have installed many machines locally for domestic and commercial clients; automating spaces from 100m2 up to 15000m² - and we can go even larger up to
36,000m² and beyond. With a competitive pricing structure, comprehensive warranty, proven technology, service contracts, and a thorough installation service we have the experience to automate all manner of green spaces from 100m2 right up to 78000m2 the unique Kress system does not require a separate base station on your site, unlike all other makes, ensuring we offer a precise on site installation and future proof accurate mapping with the Kress RTKn mapping system. This ensures we an offer map variations for different seasons, daffodils, primroses and wild flowers The mowers are controlled from an easy-to-use App on a mobile phone or tablet and control features include varying the height of cut, changing schedules of mowing, night mowing, changing the direction of the straight lines, and many many more. Robotic mowers don’t have any fluids or belts, the only thing they need is a clean and a change of blades, and charging (which they do automatically!)
If you are interested in a robotic mower, or simply want to explore the opportunity please contact Tim Lane at A T H Machinery on 01794 501070 or 07818 104864 to discuss your project.
Machinery
RELAX. SHOP. ENJOY.
Summer Soup
SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS
400G COURGETTES TRIMMED AND SLICED
1 LARGE ONION PEELED AND DICED
450ML VEGETABLE OR CHICKEN STOCK
A HANDFUL OF BABY SPINACH LEAVES OR A BUNCH OF WATERCRESS
175G GARLIC AND HERB GOATS CHEESE
150 ML DOUBLE CREAM
FRESH HERBS FOR GARNISH – CHIVES, DILL
METHOD
Put the sliced courgettes and diced onion in a large saucepan with the vegetable or chicken stock then bring to the boil. Cover and simmer for 15 – 20 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Remove from the heat, add in the spinach or watercress and leave to wilt.
Blend the soup in food processor or liquidiser until smooth and then return to the cooking pot. Crumble the goats cheese and stir into the soup. Reheat the soup gently until the goats cheese softens, remove from the heat and stir in the cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve garnished with freshly chopped herbs.
JUNE HAMPSHIRE FARMERS MARKETS
Petersfield - Sun 1st, Romsey - Sun 1st, Winchester - Sun 8th, Alton - Sat 14th, Alresford - Sun 15th, Southsea - Sun 15th, Emsworth Summer Festival - Sat 21st, Ringwood - Sat 28th, Winchester - Sun 29th
For more information visit: www.hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk
Davina Tibbetts – New Forest Show 2016
We are an independent deli filled with a mix of great quality ingredients as well as the everyday essentials located in Stockbridge High Street
Our next SUPPER CLUB is on the 3rd July, 3 courses with a complimentary arrival drink £40pp. Keep an eye out for our social media posts and newsletter for the menu release! To book a table or for more information please email david@thymeandtidesdeli.co.uk. Spaces are limited, deposit required.
With a variety of room sizes and configurations, for 15 to 120 people, and the option of catering as part of your hire, Broughton Village Hall can host all manner of events and occasions.
Bright and airy rooms, with views of the lawns
Newly refurbished main hall with stage
Internet and WIFI
Parking
bookings, telephone 0844 800 8864 or email: broughtonvillagehall@outlook.com
Celebrating Curiosity and Scholarship
The Jill Isaac Festival at St Swithun’s
St Swithun’s School was honoured to welcome the Mayor of Winchester to our annual Jill Isaac Festival of Scholarship - a celebration of academic curiosity, creativity and independent learning. This event provides students the opportunity to present projects they’ve pursued beyond the classroom, and it is a testament to the ambition and imagination thriving within our school community.
Amongst this year’s exceptional sixth form contributions were a team of three sixthformers who took part in the Davidson Inventors challenge, a competition focused on finding chemical engineering solutions to global problems. They developed an inhaler that combats the effects of smoking by breaking down tar into non-toxic byproducts. and went on to pitch their idea to business leaders as one of seven finalists in the international Micro Tyco competition. Student Tolu D commented, “We hope one day our idea could have a great impact on the health sector and wider world”.
Several of our sixth-formers visit care homes weekly to sing songs and play games with
residents. Jessica W delved into researching music therapy for dementia, presenting on its benefits for cognitive stimulation. And economics student Camilla R founded The Swithun’s Times, a student-led newspaper designed to make economic and political issues accessible for students.
Senior school students have also been pursuing exciting projects, including a completely self-taught GCSE in Astronomy (Ella P), participation in the University of Southampton Junior Maths Challenge (Lower 4 student Arabella W) and several fascinating critical essays on topics ranging from The Suffragettes to Charles I.
Prep school students confidently presented to the older audience on WWII family history, including stories from relatives who were female code breakers and POW’s. “This has been a great project for me as it made me thankful for all the sacrifices my family and their generation made”, said Marylise.
The mayor commented that the students’ drive to learn was “very impressive”, and reminded them that “there is no limit to education. Fulfilment in life often comes to those who continue to learn.”
The festival reflects our school’s wider vision: a world where young women see
possibilities, not boundaries. Through independent projects and academic enrichment, we empower our students to ask bold questions, pursue their passions and challenge conventional thinking.
Headmistress of the Senior School, Jane Gandee, remarked: "It’s a wonderful reminder of what young people can achieve when they are encouraged to go beyond the curriculum and follow their intellectual instincts."
Liz Norris, Head of our Prep School, commented: "It was a proud moment seeing our year 5s present alongside senior and sixth form students. They showed great courage and intelligence, more than holding their own in the company of their older peers.”
St Swithun’s School Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1HA T: 01962 835700 www.stswithuns.com
SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN DAY
Saturday 21 June, 9am
St Swithun’s is a world-class boarding and day independent school for girls aged 11-18. Our vision is a world where young women see possibilities not barriers. Join our open day to discover more.
EARLY YEARS ACTIVITY AFTERNOON
Friday 13 June, 1.30-3.15pm
Join us for a fun-packed summer activity afternoon in our co-ed preschool and girls-only reception, with the opportunity to explore our beautiful indoor and outdoor learning spaces and meet our welcoming team.
Scan to find out more
How to protect your family’s financial future
Protecting your family from financial difficulties isn’t just about having money to provide for the long term. It’s also about ensuring your loved ones are provided for should the worst happen.
When it comes to financial protection, the options can seem overwhelming. However, consulting a financial adviser can help you choose the right cover for your personal circumstances.
Life insurance
Life insurance pays out a lump sum on death, which could be used to pay off the mortgage and provide a cash buffer. The cost of the cover will depend on factors like your age and health.
If you have children or an outstanding mortgage, you should consider a life insurance policy. There are several different types of policy to choose from: whole of life insurance, level term insurance, and decreasing term insurance. An adviser can help you decide on the right one for you.
Income protection
Income protection can provide a tax-free income if you are unable to work because of an accident or illness.
You can choose when the payments start, such as six or 12 months, with longer deferral periods resulting in lower premiums.
Income protection can be particularly valuable for the selfemployed who do not have any cover through an employer.
You can choose from short-term cover to pay an income over one or two years and long-term cover to run until retirement, or when the policy ends, whichever is sooner.
Critical illness
Critical illness cover pays out a lump sum on diagnosis of critical illnesses covered by the policy, such as heart attack, stroke and cancer. The sum could be used to pay off debts, cover outgoings such as school fees, or to adapt living arrangements.
You might want to consider this cover if you don’t have enough savings to cover you if you were to become seriously ill, or you don’t have an employee benefits package.
Family income benefit
Instead of paying out a single lump sum, this policy provides a regular, tax-free income for a set period, such as 20 years. It’s considered a relatively inexpensive form of life cover.
Private medical insurance
Private medical insurance (PMI) will pay for the cost of private healthcare and could enable you to see a specialist more quickly than under the NHS. If you don’t have PMI through work, you can pay monthly or annual premiums for a policy.
We live and work local to you. We would be delighted to help you and your family achieve financial clarity and stability.
Joy Moir Wealth Manager Joy.Moir@brewin.co.uk
Chris Barry Wealth Manager chris.barry@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.
WARNER AND RICHARDSON LLP ARE INDEPENDENT SOLICITORS LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC CITY OF WINCHESTER.
WE HAVE A STRONG, LONG STANDING REPUTATION FOR PERSONAL SERVICE AND HIGH QUALITY LEGAL ADVICE.
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PLEASE CONTACT US ON Visit our website:-
Areas which I have experience working with are:
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I offer a free 15 minute initial telephone consultation, where we
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.
Test Valley Borough Council
New Mayor appointed for Test Valley
Following Test Valley’s Annual Full Council meeting on Wednesday 14 May 2025, councillor Gordon Bailey was elected as the new Mayor for Test Valley.
Councillor Bailey, who is one of the ward councillors for Blackwater, served as Deputy Mayor in 2023/24. Gordon would have become Mayor the following year, however he was unable to take on the role due to a personal issue. Gordon Bailey will be supported by former Mayor Karen Hamilton, who will be acting as the Mayoress. Councillor Ian Jeffrey, who was appointed Mayor last year, will be Deputy Mayor, having not done the role before filling in for councillor Bailey in 2024.
Mayor of Test Valley, Councillor Gordon Bailey, said: “I am delighted to have been appointed Mayor of Test Valley for the upcoming year. My upmost thanks go to Councillor Ian Jeffrey for doing a fantastic job last year when I needed to care for my family, and I look forward to working with him as my deputy. I would also like to thank all my councillor colleagues for giving me this opportunity, and to Karen Hamilton for supporting me in this journey. I’m excited to see what the next 12 months brings and what events and activities are in store for me.”
Councillors support new community business in East Tytherley
Councillors from Test Valley Borough Council are continuing to spend time where it matters most – out in their communities.
Last week, Councillor Alison Johnston paid a visit to a new community-focused business on the Lockerley Estate, East Tytherley, taking the opportunity to welcome Hampshire Market Garden CIC to the area and show the council’s support as they begin this exciting
new chapter. The project, which is focused on regenerative farming and community engagement, aims to grow and sell seasonal fruit and vegetables locally while also offering volunteering opportunities and educational programmes in partnership with Sparsholt College.
The visit was an opportunity for Councillor Johnston to meet the directors, Chris Huskins and Seb Mayfield, and hear how the initiative plans to interact with the community, from wellness focused volunteering to hands-on learning experiences for local students. Speaking after the visit, Cllr Alison Johnston said; “It’s always inspiring to see new businesses setting down roots in our communities – especially ones with such a clear commitment to local people and the environment. I’m really grateful to Chris and Seb for taking the time to show me around. “It’s exciting to see the potential this project has, and I look forward to seeing how Test Valley Borough Council can continue to support them, whether that’s through signposting funding opportunities or connecting them with residents who’d love to get involved.
The site will not only provide fresh produce to the local area but also play a role in improving wellbeing, offering meaningful volunteering roles, and educating the next generation of growers.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Phil North, added; “As a council, we’re focused on being present and proactive within our communities. Supporting initiatives like this – especially in their early stages – is essential to building long-term, collaborative relationships. It’s great to see councillors taking the time to meet with new local enterprises and understand how we can help them thrive.”
The team at Hampshire Market Garden CIC are currently inviting volunteers to get involved as the site takes shape. From practical help with planting to supporting community
engagement events, there are plenty of opportunities to play a part in this exciting new chapter for East Tytherley.
Riverside park project in full flow as council submits planning application
Residents are a step closer to getting a new riverside park as Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) has this week submitted the planning application to open up the town’s charming watercourse. The plans flow from the community’s aspiration to see more green space in the town centre. The new park will unlock new views of the River Anton, which is currently hidden by the large expanse of tarmac along Western Avenue. The council released the draft designs for the park and changes to the highway layout back in March, and these have now been submitted to the authority’s planning team for consideration. Over the next few weeks, the planning service will consult various organisations including Hampshire County Council and Environment Agency, as well as residents, before they present their recommendation to TVBC’s planning committee in the summer.
By changing the road layout and creating a space for inviting landscapes and accessible pathways along the river, the transformation will help to foster a seamless connection between the western side of the town, the river, Town Mills park and the new The Lights theatre, which is due to be built on the site of the old Poundstretcher unit next to the Chantry Centre.
There will be spaces for events and food and coffee stalls, innovative play elements for children of all ages to enjoy, and a peaceful path for visitors to weave their way through the park. All while highlighting the town’s picturesque watercourse, which will be extended and enriched with new planting, creating thriving habitats and enhancing the area’s natural beauty. Residents will be able to have their say on the finer design details for the park following the planning process.
This project is part funded by the £18.3m awarded by the UK Government to Test Valley Borough Council to regenerate Andover town centre.
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