TEST VALLEY_ISSUE 216_AUGUST

ISSUE 215 AUGUST 2026

Forum Publications

Test Valley Magazine

NEWS & EVENTS FOR AUGUST

HAMPSHIRE OPEN GARDEN SCHEME

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

HAMPSHIRE OPEN STUDIOS

Find out what's going on in the Test Valley

Hampshire Open Gardens this September

Potter pasta with bacon and spring onions

300 artist venues and galleries to visit free of charge

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

Image: Mottisfont House

TEST VALLEY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026

CONTENT S 03 Home

32 Recipe of the Month

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

06 Arts & Culture

Potter pasta with bacon

06

and spring onions

34 Garden 34

09 Entertainment

Make your garden dream come true

09 Retail

36 Feature 36

Our regular retail feature,

Buying, selling, letting?

Find local estate agents and property management services

18

From photographers to solicitors every professional service you need

Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk Feature Writer Lucia Foster-Found

See our other Titles

Winchester City forumpublications.co.uk/winchester

40 Education Continued

Looking after your health and yourself!

Meon Valley forumpublications.co.uk/meon-valley ISSUE 236 AUGUST 2026

Forum Publications

32

20 Property Continued

Itchen Valley Magazine

NEWS & EVENTS FOR AUGUST

ENVIRONMENT FEATURE

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

HAMPSHIRE OPEN STUDIOS

Find out what's going on in the Itchen Valley

Hope for Britian's fastest decling mammal

Potter pasta with bacon and spring onions

300 artist venues and galleries to visit free of charge

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

Itchen Valley forumpublications.co.uk/itchen-valley

22 Education

Find local schools and educational experts

Forum Publications New Farm Road,

25 Home Continued

Alresford, SO24 9QE

Tel: 01962 735137

28 Entertainment

Forthcoming events Hampshire

Advertising Manager Mandy Head mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk

37 Professional Services

13 Wellbeing

Bee Afraid, Bee Very Afraid - Written by Lucia Foster-Found

Director of Advertising Steve Walker stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

Garden Scheme

12 Forthcoming Events

18 Feature

Editor Mark Tubb editor@forumpublications.co.uk

National Open

Unique, Bespoke, Eclectic and Local shopping

10 Property

The Team

www.forumpublications.co.uk

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The Test Valley Magazine contains facts, views, opinions, statements, recommendations, advertisements and other content and links to external websites not owned or controlled by the magazine. Test Valley Magazine takes reasonable efforts to include accurate, current information on its pages, but make no warranties or representations as to the accuracy, safety or value of the published items that are displayed.

No liability or responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions in magazine content.

Test Valley Magazine magazine content does not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or recommendations of its creators and any reliance upon its content is taken at the user’s sole risk.

Adverts designed by Forum Publications remain the magazine's legal ownership. Readership figures calculated on an average national statistic of 2.5 readers per household © Forum Publications Ltd, 2026

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Hampshire’s largest open studio event 300 artist venues and galleries to visit free of charge

ARTS & CULTURE

Hampshire Open Studios Saturday 22 – Monday 31 August 2026

Art lovers and curious visitors are invited to step inside the creative heart of Hampshire this summer as Hampshire Open Studios returns from 22 – 31 August 2026.

For ten inspiring days, 300 venues across the county will open their doors free of charge, offering a rare chance to meet local artists and makers in the places where creativity happens.

From painters and potters to sculptors, jewellers, textile artists and printmakers, visitors can explore an extraordinary variety of art and craft while discovering the stories and techniques behind the work.

The Romsey and Stockbridge area offers one of the most varied and picturesque trails within Hampshire Open Studios, with artists opening their homes, studios and shared exhibition spaces across market towns and beautiful Test Valley villages. Visitors can enjoy a creative day out while exploring the distinctive character of Romsey, Stockbridge, King’s Somborne and Broughton.

In Romsey, venues including Romsey Art

Group and Artseen provide welcoming spaces to meet artists and view a wide range of work.

Across the wider trail, visitors can explore community exhibitions such as Broughton Village Artists at Broughton Village Hall, alongside smaller rural studios set within the Hampshire countryside. This year’s front cover, of the Hampshire Open Studios brochure, is from artist Fiona Forbes who exhibits with Artlook at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens.

Stockbridge Town Hall will host artists including The Artful 5 and Renate West & Challenge Group, while King’s Somborne visitors can discover the work of painter and illustrator Sarah Seymour, whose large-scale nature-inspired paintings and sketchbooks are exhibited from her home studio in the village.

From village halls filled with dozens of exhibitors to intimate working studios, every venue provides the opportunity to meet artists in person and experience the creative process up close.

Hampshire Open Studios celebrates the county’s thriving creative community.

Visitors can chat directly with artists, watch demonstrations, browse original work and purchase unique handmade pieces.

Planning your own art trail is easy with the free full-colour catalogue, available from midJuly, or through the Hampshire Open Studios app on both Apple and Android devices.

The app allows visitors to search venues by location, medium or opening date, save favourites and navigate using interactive maps.

Saturday 22nd - Bank Holiday Monday 31st August

www.hampshireopenstudios.org.uk

Mixed media work from Artseen

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Brick House Conservation at work

New for 2026, HOS welcomes several exciting new exhibitors, adding even more variety to this popular destination. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the vibrant contemporary paintings of Sally Hawke and the distinctive ceramic work of Molly Haeri, both opening their studios to the public for the first time as part of the event. Alongside these artists, Brick House Conservation offers a fascinating chance to explore the specialist skills involved in the conservation and restoration of historic buildings and decorative surfaces, providing a unique insight into Hampshire's rich heritage crafts.

There is also the chance to win a £100 prize draw towards purchasing artwork from a favourite Hampshire Open Studios artist.

Simply pick up a brochure, download the app and follow the distinctive pink directional arrows guiding you to studios and exhibitions across Hampshire.

For more information visit www.hampshireopenstudios.org.uk

Hampshire’s Hampshire’s largest largest open open studio studio event event 300 300 artist artist venues venues and and galleries galleries to to visit visit free free of of charge charge

Saturday Saturday 22nd 22nd -- Bank Bank Holiday Holiday Monday Monday 31st 31st August August

www.hampshireopenstudios.org.uk www.hampshireopenstudios.org.uk

ARTS & CULTURE

BROUGHTON VILLAGE ART & CRAFT FESTIVAL Now in its sixth year, the Broughton Art & Crafts Festival brings together 70 local artists all exhibiting under one roof. This year we welcome 14 new artists displaying their works for the first time. Open

every day between 22 and 31 August 2026 from 10am to 5pm. As part of the Hampshire Open Studios program, the Festival provides the opportunity of seeing a wide variety of creative works including being able to speak with the artists.

Last year’s event attracted over 3,000 visitors across the 10-day event. Still the single biggest art exhibition in Hampshire under one roof, work featured includes paintings, drawings, cards, photographs, ceramics, jewellery, wood carvings, glass ware, basket weaving and much more. Lots of gift ideas and the chance to meet and talk with the artists.

Now in its 6th year, the exhibition has become one of the most popular Hampshire Open Studios venues, offering visitors not only a wide and eclectic display of art and crafts but also providing refreshments in conjunction with the Broughton Community Shop.

The Village of Broughton nestles in the Test Valley between Winchester and Salisbury. It is surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside with the River Test’s tributary, The Wallop Brook, flowing through the village.

A visit to the Broughton Art and craft festival makes a perfect day out for all. With plenty of free parking, onsite refreshments and lawns to relax in, it makes for a great day out in the picturesque Test Valley Village of Broughton. www.broughtonvillage.art Broughton Village Hall, High Street, Broughton, SO20 8AX

Broughton Art & Craft Festival 2026 Saturday 22 - Monday 31 August 2026 10.00 - 17.00 daily

C

ome and meet over 60 local artists, all displaying their own work under one roof in Broughton Village Hall, just a short journey from Andover, Romsey, Winchester and Salisbury.

Visit www.broughtonvillage.art for artist details

Painting Textiles Papier-Maché Jewellery Drawing Automata Ceramics Glass Wood Photography Assemblage Metalwork Pottery Sculpture Basketry Broughton Village Hall, High Street, Broughton, Hampshire, SO20 8AX

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• Families welcome • Broughton Community Village Shop & Post Office on site for refreshments.

• Choice of pubs for lunches.

Wheelchair access, On-site Café, Lots of Free Parking, EV Charger

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ENTERTAINMENT / RETAIL

DISCOVER THE INSPIRING HAMPSHIRE COTTAGE WHERE JANE AUSTEN LIVED AND WROTE. www. janeaustens.house

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Village & Rural Estate Agents

Winterslow | Price £2,000,000 A beautifully modernised and light-filled family home with extensive outbuildings, high quality 8 car garaging, stables and studios all set within approaching 8 acres of grounds in a peaceful elevated position enjoying uninterrupted far-reaching views

Broughton | Price £1,250,000 An outstanding individual detached house set in approaching half an acre of beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds, offering beautifully presented and well appointed accommodation including a self contained annexe/holiday let, in this highly regarded and well served village close to Stockbridge.

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.

Professional | Dedicated | Successful

Chattis Hill, Stockbridge | Price £850,000

West Tytherley | Price £1,500,000

A substantial detached character property with elegant and spacious accommodation, two garages and a south facing garden within a Victorian courtyard development that was once the stables for Stockbridge's former racecourse.

A unique modern residence with open-plan living, an additional barn, stables and free draining paddocks and grounds extending to about 4.5 acres, with no near neighbours, immediate access to excellent outriding, and beautiful views over surrounding farmland and countryside in a quiet rural setting between West Tytherley and Broughton.

Broughton | Price £1,250,000

Longstock | Price £1,250,000

A beautifully presented and characterful period family home offering four double bedrooms, together with an adjoining two-bedroom cottage, both enjoying attractive walled gardens in the heart of this highly sought after village.

A substantial and distinctive modern family home offering exceptionally light, beautifully presented and versatile accommodation, including a guest annexe or holiday let, set within stunning landscaped gardens with far reaching open views in one of Hampshire’s most sought after villages.

Email: property@evansandpartridge.co.uk Agriculture House, High street, Stockbridge

Tel: 01264 810702

www.evansandpartridge.co.uk

Hampshire, SO20 6HF

PROPERTY / EVENTS

Forthcoming Events Trout ‘n’ about 2026 Sunday 2 August From 10am to 4pm Stockbridge High Street

On the first Sunday of August every year, Stockbridge high street is alive with local traders showcasing the very best of local food, produce and crafts, attracting thousands of visitors. Trout ‘n’ about is a free-toattend event although we do charge for park so we can raise money for local good causes. Trout’n’about is run entirely by local volunteers.

We look forward to welcoming you to Stockbridge on August 2nd! For more information visit: https:// tnastockbridge.com/

Exclusive Private Screening of 'Land of silence' & 'Counterforts' Two short documentary films by the United Nations Development Programme. Raising funds to

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Wednesday 12 September From 6.30pm

stockbridgecinema.org.uk or by free telephone call to TicketSource 0333 666 3366.

Stockbridge Cinema The Mastermind (15) Wednesday 26 August

Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE

send essential life-saving kit to the Ukrainian Frontline. Please book your tickets via the website: www.stockbridgeukraine.org

Stockbridge Cinema Sentimental Value (15) Wednesday 21 August From 7.30pm Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE

Sisters Nora and Agnes reunite with their estranged father, the charismatic Gustav (Stellan Skarsgård), a once-renowned director who offers stage actress Nora a role in what he hopes will be his comeback film. Tickets £6.00 on sale online via www.

From 4.45pm to 7.30pm Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE

JB Mooney (Josh O'Connor), a restless carpenter in 1970s Massachusetts, becomes obsessed with proving his own brilliance through an audacious art heist.

He fixates on four Arthur Dove paintings in a small suburban museum, convinced the theft will finally validate the genius he believes he possesses. Tickets £6.00 on sale online via www. stockbridgecinema.org.uk or by free telephone call to TicketSource 0333 666 3366.

Longstock Park Water Gardens

Special opening for St Nicholas Church, Leckford on Wednesday

Wednesday 2 September From 4.30pm to 6.30pm Longstock Park Water Gardens, Stockbridge, SO20 6EH

Come and wander around these beautiful water gardens at your leisure and help support our lovely old church in Leckford. Entry Fee £15 (by card) on the gate includes a glass of wine. £15 per person, typically payable by card at the gate, which includes a glass of wine.

Longstock Village Fete Saturday 5 September From 12.30pm to 4.30pm Longstock Recreation Ground

Otterbourne brass band, BBQ, bar, teas, dog show, sheep racing. tug o’ war, laser tag, axe throwing, coconut shy, golf pitch ‘n putt, tombola, bottle stall, books, produce, cakes and jams and grand draw. Come and help us raise funds for our church and playground, while everyone has fun!

EVENTS / WELLBEING Daniel Lebhardt, Piano Friday 11 September From 7.30pm to 9pm St Peter's Church High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HF

Stockbridge Music’s presentation of a piano recital in 2024 was very warmly welcomed by our audience and this year we are delighted to offer a recital by a highly acclaimed rising star, Hungarian pianist Daniel Lebhardt.

Highlights of Daniel’s concerts and recitals for this year include performances in London with the Royal Philharmonic and London Philharmonic Orchestras. He will be making his debut at the Royal Albert Hall the week after our concert. Daniel studied at the Franz Liszt Academy in his native Hungary and at the Royal Academy of Music in London. Daniel’s programme for Stockbridge Music includes famous works by Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, Schubert and Brahms. Full details and online bookings available on our website stockbridgemusic.uk

Which feels

A Talk by David Boyd Haycock Wednesday 30 September From 6.30pm Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE

Writer, lecturer and expert in British Art from 1848-1945, will be in Stockbridge Town Hall on 30th September, on behalf of StockbridgeUkraine. He will be talking about PAUL NASH, one of the most important BrItish Artists of the 20th Century. David has written many books, one in particular’A Crisis of Brilliance: Five Young British Artists and the Great War’. The ‘Five Artists’ being Stanley Spencer, Mark Gertler, Dora Carrington, CW Nevinson and Paul Nash. Door open 6.30 and the lecture starts at 7pm.

Add you event to this page FREE of charge by emailing: editor@forumpublications. co.uk. Please Note: We are unable to guarantee publication.

STOCKBRIDGE OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE

Emma Wightman and Associates Specialising in women’s health, sports and paediatrics. A gentle hands-on approach for newborns, through to adulthood and in pregnancy

Also Massage Therapy Pilates, 1 to 1 and small group Acupuncture Nutrition Online Bookings available via the website

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

more like home?

Choose heartfelt home care that puts you first Call 01264 310 888 andover@ bluebirdcare.co.uk

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WELLBEING

Hair Art

Your professional Aveda™ Hair Salon in Alresford, Hampshire over 30 years in the hairdressing industry Carly brings unmatched expertise and a creative spark to every client.

Carly joins us from Winchester where she worked for the renowned salon Storm/ Harringtons.

Megan Simpson joins us as our new stylist. Megan is formerly from Misho Hair Studio in Stockbridge where she built a strong following. Megan is a bubbly professional who has six years hairdressing experience and is passionate about her career and all things hairdressing.

Hair Art in Alresford has a philosophy that places customer service at the forefront of the Company’s Activities. Our Aveda™ Salon was established in March 2000 and has become recognised as one of the most prestigious salons in the area.

Director Simon Sothcott has created a relaxing environment where clients can enjoy a first class hairdressing experience. All members of the highly trained team feel passionate about client satisfaction. Hair Art aim to give clients the best quality care available, a hairstyle that makes them feel fantastic and individual attention to service.

Hair Art in Alresford has a philosophy that places customer service at the forefront of the company’s activities.

Simon started his hairdressing career in St Thomas Street, Winchester, before moving on to work at Hair Art in Bishop's Waltham, then moving over when the company opened Hair Art Alresford.

Simon left Hair Art and went on to become a successful hair and make-up artist in films and television. Screen credits for his work include epics such as Troy with Brad Pitt, Alexander with Colin Farrell and television series such as Messiah III and Murder City. Where he looked after well known leading actress Amanda Donahoe. He then returned to Alresford and purchased Hair Art Alresford in 2006 Hair Art in Alresford is excited to welcome the arrival of two new Stylist’s to the Team.

Carly Christie is our new Senior Stylist. With

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Please phone for a free Consultation with our stylists. All colour services require a skin test 48 hours prior to your colour treatment. You can purchase gift vouchers to your specified amount and are valid for six months from date of purchase, an ideal gift for a friend or loved one.

We are proud to be the only exclusive Aveda™ salon in the area, Aveda™, The Art and Science of Pure Flower and Plant Essences™, was founded in 1978 with the goal of providing beauty industry professionals with high performance, botanically based products that would be better for service providers and their guests, as well as for the planet.

For more information or book an appointment contact: Simon@Hairart.net or call us on: 01962 736398 | www.hairart.net

We are the only exclusive Aveda™ Salon in the area We use Aveda Organic sourced Products that are sustainable and treat each of our clients as an individual.

Opening Hours: Monday | 9am - 6pm Tuesday | 9.00am – 6.00pm Wednesday | 9.00am – 6.00pm Thursday | 9.00am – 7.00pm Friday | 9.00am – 6.00pm Saturday | Closed Sunday | Closed

Please phone for a free Consultation with our stylists.

Hair Art17, East Street, Alresford, SO24 9EQ Simon@Hairart.net | Telephone: 01962 736398 | www.hairart.net

COMMUNITY / WELLBEING

ABBOTTS ANN VILLAGE FETE Come along to our wonderful Abbotts Ann village fete on Saturday 5th September at 1pm to experience all the nostalgic fete delights such as Tug of War and scrumptious cake and teas supplied by our village WI. The theme of our fete is the 70th anniversary of the Eurovision Song Contest and this is reflected throughout the day with a variety of music and singers performing from 1pm in Duck Street, at St Mary’s Church and the Eagle Inn until late into the night.

THE OPPOSITE OF SITTING ISN'T WHAT YOU THINK Walking: The Summer Habit Your Body Has Been Waiting For Summer is the perfect reminder that movement doesn't have to mean workouts, gym memberships or complicated fitness plans. Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do for your health is also the simplest: go for a walk.

Guinea Lane, the popular saxophone quartet will open our fete with some well-known Eurovision songs amongst their vibrant repertoire.

We’ll provide a tasty BBQ throughout the afternoon outside the Eagle Inn, famous for real ales.

If you want to shop, Duck Street will be lined with stalls brimming with craft items, honey cakes and other goodies. Local Charities/ organisations will also provide stalls giving information about their activities. It’s a great day out for the Family with lots of entertainment including a Family entertainer with puppets, a Dog Show for the Most Obedient Dog and side shows including the Human Fruit Machine.

Alpacas and goats will feature too alongside a Butterfly on stilts!

Many people think the opposite of sitting is standing. While standing is certainly better than staying glued to a chair all day, it's still another static position. What your body really craves is movement.

A vintage car procession will make two exciting appearances throughout the afternoon hooting down Duck Street. If you can’t make the fun in the afternoon, we are offering a children’s disco early evening followed by a party in the Eagle pub and garden. Delicious Thai food served by Aom from Salisbury Market Square at a competitive price will be available with the fantastic background music of Butler’s Rat and Fallen Heroes.

If you like a quiet moment amongst all the fun we exhibit produce, flowers, craft, photography, baking and paintings exhibited by enthusiasts in various buildings within walking distance of the village centre.

The benefits go far beyond easing a stiff back or tight shoulders. Regular walking improves circulation, supports heart health, boosts energy, sharpens concentration and lifts your mood. Spending time walking in green spaces adds another layer of wellbeing. The Japanese practice of ‘forest bathing’ (Shinrin-yoku) has been shown to reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure and improve feelings of calm, without needing to hike a mountain.

Even a gentle stroll beneath trees in your local park can make a noticeable difference.

The buildings referenced are the heart of our Abbotts Ann community.

Our local artist Matt Kirby has drawn the Eagle Inn, the War Memorial Hall, St Mary’s Church and the Community Shop and we have included his drawings on our fete advertising poster. Matt has autism and as well as painting Matt has been a deliverer of The Forum Magazine for many years. Matt will be selling his paintings at the fete.

We look forward to seeing you at our event which is filled with so much local talent including a Ukulele band, Middle Wallop & Andover Military Wives Choir, Handbells and local boy band The Buzz!! There is ample free parking too off Church Road.

All fete funds raised will be distributed to our vital village community groups.

A very special thank you to our fete supporters Bluebird Care and Evans and Partridge along with many other local businesses organisations, residents and volunteers.

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Walking is the true opposite of sitting. It gently reverses the flexed posture created by hours at a desk, opening the hips, extending the spine and encouraging your joints to move through their natural range. Every step helps restore the body to what it was designed to do.

Every minute counts • 5 minutes: Loosens stiff joints, improves posture and gives your eyes a break from screens.

• 10 minutes: Increases circulation, reduces muscle tension and boosts mental clarity.

• 20 minutes: Elevates mood through the release of feel-good chemicals and reduces stress.

• 30 minutes: Supports heart health, improves blood sugar regulation and builds endurance.

• 45–60 minutes: Enhances cardiovascular fitness, burns calories, strengthens muscles and maximises the restorative benefits of time spent in nature.

If you're working in an office, standing desks can help, but they don't replace movement. Our bodies simply weren't designed to stay in one position for hours, no matter how ergonomic the chair. This summer, make walking the easy choice. Leave your trainers by the door, set a reminder to take a movement break, arrange a weekly walk with a friend, or head to your nearest woodland or park for a dose of nature as well as exercise.

Every walk is an investment in your long-term health. One step moves you away from stiffness, fatigue and brain fog, and closer to resilience, better posture, a clearer mind and healthier ageing. And if you can't get away from your desk, don't forget to try my 3-minute movement break on the SOP YouTube channel, designed to mimic many of the benefits of walking until you can get outside. https://youtu.be/fCS9w55Ekhg Emma Wightman - www.the-sop.com

ALRESFORD HEARING STUDIO

Celebrating 7 Years of Supporting Alresford’s Hearing Health Seven years ago, Alresford Hearing Studio opened its doors on West Street with a simple idea: that hearing care should feel unhurried, personal, and genuinely local. Today, we're marking that anniversary with heartfelt thanks to the community that has made it possible.

In that time, we've had the privilege of getting to know hundreds of local families — not just as patients, but as neighbours. We've fitted over 1500 pairs of hearing aids and carried out more than 10,000 microsuction appointments, but the numbers only tell half the story. We've fitted first hearing aids for people nervous about the change, celebrated when a grandparent heard their grandchild's voice clearly again, and become a familiar, friendly face on the high street for many who now pop in simply to say hello.

Hearing changes so gradually that it’s easy to miss

A television turned up a notch at a time, a habit of nodding along in a busy café, a quiet withdrawal from group conversations that no one quite mentions. Seven years in, we still find that the simplest thing we offer - time, and a proper listen - makes the biggest difference to the people who visit us.

What living yourTHROUGHOUT best life AUGUST FREE HEARING TESTS sounds like.

“From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the professionalism, warmth and precision of the audiology team. My audiologist, James, took the time to listen carefully and explain every step... I cannot recommend this audiology team highly enough - five stars without hesitation.”

“Sam’s been absolutely brilliant. A genuine expert in what he does, and has made a life-changing difference to me! I’m so pleased with my new hearing aids, and the service that Sam has given me.”

A Lekas - 5

I was a reluctant and occasional hearing aid user until I discovered Alresford Hearing Studio. Sam has listened to my concerns and provided me with some super aids which are now worn every day. A significant issue for me was the enjoyment of and participation in music. My fear that aids would get in the way of my music proved unfounded. I am now enjoying added clarity. My wife is even happier than I am, as her every word is heard first time!

M. Sadler - 5

Google review

“I came in recently with wax build up that another specialist was unable to resolve. James not only resolved the issue but was helpful, friendly and very knowledgable. It was great value for money, these guys really are the best. I can’t recommend them enough, thanks guys”

R. Wood - 5

Google review

Nigel S - 5

5.0

Google review

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Call today on 01962 790749 Google Rating | 400+ | 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee HEARING PROBLEMS? MAYBE IT’S JUST EARWAX

Hearing Tests | Hearing Aids | Ear Wax Removal | Tinnitus Consultations | Hearing Aid | Reprogramming & Repairs VISIT ALRESFORD HEARING STUDIO AND WE’LL REMOVE IT FOR YOU specialise in |the Micro SuctionHearing TechniqueCare of earwax removal. Micro Suction is a safe & effective HCPCWe Registered Independent

process with no need for weeks of softening with oil based products. Our fee is £45 for one ear or £70 for both ears. We are able to offer appointments at times to suit you, both evenings and weekends.

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FEATURE

Bee Afraid, Bee Very Afraid © Lucia Foster-Found 2026 | www.luciafosterfound.com | e @luciafosterfound

(Extract from my memoirs, during the year I spent living in a caravan) My husband, Paul, was champing at the bit to make his favourite tipple - mead. Personally, I’m not a fan. Honey has this taste. It doesn’t matter what particular variety: lavender, acacia blossom or heather – it tastes of honey. And it does something right at the back of the roof of my mouth, just as it reaches my throat. My body segues through surprise, suspicion and revulsion; ‘Oh? Wossat? Yuk!’.

Anyway, Paul had assembled plastic barrels and glass demijohns and the sort of enormous saucepan and ladle that you see in the orphanage scene in Oliver Twist. Just to clarify, it’s the version with Oliver Reed as Bill Sykes, dripping with sex appeal (the subject of an early crush).

I’ll mention here that I’m allergic to bee stings. One childhood summer, I was staying with a friend and trod on a hapless bee. My foot swelled, skin growing hot with the unhealthy sheen of being stretched too tightly. That night the allergic reaction triggered an asthma episode. Pre-diagnosis: no meds. Wheezing loudly, with a fat, shiny foot, I was the biggest nuisance to the sweetly caring mother of my friend. She slathered my foot in calamine lotion, to no effect save staining the sheets.

Many years of slim-footedness and bee-avoidance later, back at the caravan, Paul was outside dealing with the honey; decanting and weighing. The bees lived in a settlement of hives about thirty yards from the caravan.

We couldn’t see them, but their daytime hum was like a distant road with constant but light traffic.

We didn’t bother the bees and they politely ignored us. There was a mutual respect. At least, I had a huge respect for them because I’d seen that horror film The Swarm at a very impressionable age. I didn’t want to find myself covered in them and have to sit in a fridge until they went to sleep – like in the film. In any event, I have no idea whether they had respect for me. I doubt it. I just wasn’t a flower and at no time did I try to get into their hive to steal their food, so they left me alone.

Armed with my enormous respect (for ‘respect’, read ‘fear’), I elected to be inside the awning of the caravan. I was in charge of sterilising the equipment and manning the gas burner with its giant saucepan of water, into which I was going to pour the weighed honey.

Like a modern-day alchemist, I was going to produce the nectar of the

18

monks. The first recorded alcoholic drink. We’d looked it all up on BBC Good Food. I love BBC Good Food. BBC Good Food made everything look easy. It was going to be a piece of cake, BBC Good Food practically said so.

There I was in the awning, all zipped up and bee-free. Paul was outside communing with the bees. They, having smelt the honey that had been so unceremoniously stolen from them, had come to investigate. They buzzed around him, coming in for a closer look, hovering about. Then presumably they decided that a sample might be in order and one or two landed on the bucket.

It must have been the equivalent shout-out of, “Yes chaps, it’s definitely ours,” as Paul was then inundated with their little bodies, flying in and landing. I’ve no idea what they thought they were going to do. Take it all back, one tiny bee mouthful at a time? Entirely feasible, given the amount of hard work and diligence it had taken them to manufacture the stuff in the first place.

Meanwhile, back in the awning…

I couldn’t work out what the little noises were. Sounded like the pitterpatter of raindrops, but couldn’t be – the sun was beating down on the awning, heat radiating through the canvas.

No, it wasn’t rain. It was the bees. They were batting against the canvas, first one or two, then more and more. The bees must have got a whiff of the honey that I was adding to the now-boiled water and they were making it their mission to come and get that too.

Feverishly, I was checking the door was completely zipped up. I couldn’t see anywhere they might get in, and relaxed a bit.

But for all they look so sweet and busy on these natural history programmes, doing their little waggle dance and flying around with pollen laden trousers, the little bees are cunning and devious little Bs. They circled the caravan and found they could get in under the skirt of the awning where there were gaps caused by the uneven grass. In just a few minutes I had my own contingent of nosy insects buzzing around me.

I fled to the caravan and locked myself in, shouting for Paul in a panic.

“They’re here! They’ve brought their friends. Millions of the little wotsits looking at me with accusing feelers.”

To be continued...

19

Heatwave headlines.

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Home of Independent Education in Hampshire Prince’s Mead

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EDUCATION

The KES Group launch marked by time capsule to be opened at 500th anniversary of King Edward VI School, Southampton in 2053

I

n June, King Edward VI School announced the launch of The KES Group, bringing together King Edward VI School in Southampton, KES Preparatory School in Romsey and Prince’s Mead in Winchester, reinforcing KES as the home of exceptional independent education for children across Hampshire aged 2–18.

At the heart of the Group sits King Edward VI School, recently named among the Top 10 schools in the South West in The Sunday Times Parent Power 2026 league tables, based on exceptional A Level and GCSE results.

The school was also recognised as a Finalist for Regional Independent School of the Year (South) in the 2025 Independent Schools of the Year Awards, a recognition that reflects not only its academic strength, but the clarity of its recently redefined values and Boundless Futures vision, which now unite King Edward VI School, KES Preparatory School and Prince’s Mead in a shared sense of purpose.

That family extends across Hampshire, with the Preparatory schools and nurseries in Romsey and Winchester playing a vital role.

KES Prep and Prince’s Mead bring their own thriving communities and cherished traditions, strengthening the breadth and continuity of education offered to families.

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On Thursday 25th June 2026, that connection was brought to life through the creation of a time capsule, holding a moment in their shared story while looking ahead to the future they are shaping together.

Placed in the grounds at Hill Lane, the capsule will be opened in June 2053, when King Edward VI School celebrates its 500th anniversary. It contains a snapshot of life across the Group in 2026 and the ambitions that will shape the years to come.

The initiative brought together contributions from across the KES community, both past and present. Letters from the Heads of each school sit alongside messages from pupil leaders and pupil voice groups, who wrote directly to future generations, sharing their

hopes for the schools and the opportunities they believe lie ahead. Old Edwardians (the school’s alumni) also contributed, ensuring the capsule reflects not only where the schools are today, but the strength of the community that has shaped them over generations.

Neal Parker, Head of King Edward VI School, said: “As ever, our children are at the heart of every decision we make, so it felt only right to mark this moment in a way that amplifies their voices and reflects their experiences. The time capsule brings together perspectives from across our communities, from age 2 through to 18, capturing what school life means to them today and the hopes they hold for the future. When it is opened in 2053, it will speak directly to future pupils about the moment our schools came together with a shared purpose.”

As the oldest school in Southampton, King Edward VI School looks ahead to 500 years of educating children across Hampshire, marking a defining moment in its story.

It honours a remarkable heritage while setting the course for its own Boundless Future.

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forthcoming EVENTS HAMPSHIRE HAMPSHIRE AIR FESTIVAL

The Hampshire Air Festival takes flight on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026 at Thruxton Aerodrome, Hampshire, celebrating “The Age of Flight” across a spectacular weekend of aviation and entertainment.

Experience an incredible journey through the skies, from the pioneering aircraft of the Great War, to iconic Warbirds including the legendary Spitfire in its 90th Anniversary Year, thrilling formation aerobatics, and the power of modern fast jets, all performing across both days.

Included in your Saturday ticket, in the evening, the sky comes alive with our breathtaking Pyro & Lights Extravaganza, featuring pyrotechnic aircraft displays, a dazzling light show, illuminated drone formations, and a grand fireworks finale lighting up the Thruxton skyline.

Aviation is fun and can inspire the next generation, getting young people interested in both history and the STEM subjects, we call it education by stealth! We also have ground attractions including motorcycle stunts, military re-enactors, vehicles and live music.

These will take place around the flying display so as not to distract from the aviation but complement it.

For tickets and more information visit: www.hampshireairfestival.co.uk

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THE ROMSEY SHOW

The Romsey Show is a traditional country show held on the 12 September 2026. From 8pm to 5.30pm.

The show is organised by The Romsey Agricultural and Horse Show Society and held on the magnificent and historic Broadlands Park, Romsey. With a regular annual attendance of around 20,000, the Show welcomes people of all ages and interests, from families to local businesses. There is something for everyone.

There will be a wealth of events such as: Coaching Class & Marathon, Extreme Bike Battle BMX Ring, Children’s Activities, Livestock Classes & Grand Parade, The Thrings Countryside Ring, Modern Machinery, The Sheep Show, Floral Art, Classic Cars, Family Dog Show & Scurry, Circus Skills Area, Reptiles, Horse & Donkey Classes, Vintage machinery, Falconry, Shopping & Craft Stands, Heavy Horse Parade, Fur & Feather Tent, Horticulture, Food Zone & Local Produce, Hobby Horse Competitons, Dog Agility, Bars and Fairground.

Each year, the show has a wonderful turnout of cattle, sheep, horses and donkeys. Other animal displays include the rabbits, cavies and the Angora goats. We also have a mobile petting farm.

For tickets and more information visit: www.romseyshow.co.uk

PORTSMOUTH INTERNATIONAL KITE FESTIVAL

The Portsmouth International Kite Festival returns in 2026, with the skies above Southsea Common bursting into life and colour on the weekend of 12 and 13 September from 10am to 5pm at Southsea Common, Southsea, PO5 3AE. What's more, to mark the centenary of Portsmouth getting city status, the 2026 event will have the theme: 100 Kites to celebrate 100 years.

The event features beautiful and awe-inspiring kites, flown by some of the world’s most internationally renowned flyers. There's so much for visitors to enjoy and admire.

The festival has amazing demonstrations showcasing the art of kite flying and making, which will see UK and European champions flying multi-line kites to music - performing tricks and ballet routines.

There will also be a host of activities available, including craft stalls and local amusements, whilst dedicated kite traders will be on hand with a wide range of equipment to browse and buy. Don't miss the enchanting displays - featuring beautiful single line kites (intricately appliquéd or painted with magnificent designs), amazing cellular kites (flying miracles of structural engineering), and stunning 3D soft kites in a range of shapes and sizes. The best bit? This exhilarating familyfriendly festival is free to attend! The event is scheduled to run from 10am to 5pm on both days.

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RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Potter pasta with bacon and spring onions This recipe is from the Book & Bucket Cheese Company website by Heather Brown from Dorset Foodie Feed. It features their Porter, a kind of hybrid cross between a soft cream cheese and a curd.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

200G POTTER 4 RASHERS STREAKY BACON 1 CLOVE OF GARLIC, CHOPPED HANDFUL OF BUTTON MUSHROOMS, SLICED 5 SPRING ONIONS, SLICED 1 TBSP BUTTER A LITTLE OIL LINGUINE (OR ANY PASTA)

Cook your pasta in salted water following packet instructions until done and when draining, reserve some of the pasta water. Pop the drained pasta back into its cooking pot. Whilst the pasta is cooking, fry off the streaky bacon in a pan with a little oil so that the bacon is crisp.

Keep the bacon on a plate for later.In the same bacon-y pan, in that lovely bacon fat, add the butter and the mushrooms. Once frying and the mushrooms beginning to change colour, add the garlic and spring onions. Season well with pepper and salt if needed (although the bacon will have already added saltiness here).

Once the mushrooms have turned a lovely golden brown, cut up the crispy bacon and add to the pan and then add in the Potter and stir in so that it melts. Keep this mixture on a low heat until the pasta is ready.

Put the pot with the pasta back onto a gentle heat and add in a little of the pasta water followed by the cheesy Potter sauce and mix well until the pasta is glossy with sauce. You can add more pasta water if you need to until you get the desired sauce consistency.

Serve and enjoy!

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FEATURE

The NGS is now gearing up to 2027, when we celebrate our centenary.

How different life and gardens were then. The first 600 gardens opened in May 1927 and the cost per head was ‘a shilling’. They raised a total of £8,191.00, which went to help support the District Nurses. Currently we open 3,500 gardens, nationwide and the the admission fee to visit a garden is anywhere between £4.50 and £10.00, depending on the garden.

In 2025 the National Garden Scheme raised a staggering £3.8m - it would be great to make it £4m leading into our centenary year.

As well as donating to several well known charities, the National Garden Scheme also supports many other Nursing, Health and Caring projects - the latest one being a donation of £37,828.00 to the rooftop critical care unit garden at Kings College Hospital, London. This donation was used to support the planting. This is the first rooftop critical care unit garden in the world.

To read more about this wonderful garden simply visit: https://ngs.org.uk/ national-garden-scheme-helps-fund-worlds-first-rooftop-critical-careunit-garden/ We have a few gardens opening in September, which you may like to visit - thus helpings reach our goal of £4m donated to our very deserving charities.

Laurel House

4 Beechwood Crescent, Chandler’s Ford, SO53 5PA Opening: Saturday & Sunday 5 & 6 September 1pm to 5pm.

Pre-booking available.

Admission: £5.00 children free.

Cashless payments available.

Home-made teas including G/F option. https://findagarden.ngs.org.uk/ garden/47434/the-laurel-house An enchanting 2/3 acre, garden designer's garden, developed over 35 years has matured into a vibrant tapestry of colour, texture and scent.

Woodland walks feature dry-shade plants, while hot beds bloom in

36

late summer. Wildlife thrives with ponds, bird boxes and wood piles.

Sustainable practices like composting enrich the soil. This garden offers a tranquil retreat, full of inspiration year-round.

Bramdean House

Bramdean, Alresford, SO24 0JU Opening: Sunday 13th September 1.30 to 3.30 children free.

Admission: £7.00 children free.

Cashless Payments available.

Refreshments: Tea, coffee and cake (Donations to Bramdean Church) https://findagarden. ngs.org.uk/garden/3145/ bramdean-house This is a real plantsman’s garden, full of interest all year round. To the north of the house, five acres of garden slope up through the exemplary mirror-image herbaceous borders, planted with over one hundred genera and reaching their peak in June with nepetas, geraniums, tradescantias, Clematis x diversifolia ‘Hendersonii’ and galegas, followed by yellows and then the russets of late summer.

September brings us to the end of our National Garden Scheme Open Gardens for another year - can you believe it!

This will be my last article for a few months - unless the National Garden Scheme Head Office release some more exciting news regarding our Centenary Celebrations in 2027.

Now that Autumn is just round the corner, don’t forget we give talks about the National Garden Scheme - evenings or afternoons - so if you belong to a Group, who would like to learn more about what we do, simply contact me and I will send all the details.

I would like to express huge Thanks to Forum Publications for supporting us in Hampshire for yet another year. I wish you all very best wishes for the rest of 2027.

Pat Beagley (Head of Publicity) National Garden Scheme - Hampshire

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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. FOR INFORMATION ON HOW WE CAN HELP YOU WITH ANY OF THESE MATTERS:• WILLS, PROBATE AND ESTATES • RESIDENTIAL CONVEYANCING • COMMERCIAL, AGRICULTURAL AND BUSINESS CONVEYANCING

PLEASE CONTACT US ON 01962 868366 Visit our website:- www.wandr.co.uk

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FIRE method: Could it help you retire early?

FIRE – ‘Financial Independence, Retire Early’ – is a movement where people save aggressively with the aim of retiring decades earlier than traditional retirement age. It aims to achieve financial independence, defined as having an income sufficient for your basic needs and comforts from a source other than paid employment1.

How does FIRE work?

Per the FIRE method, you need to save up around 25 times your annual expenses to achieve financial independence. So, if you expect to spend £20,000 a year when you retire, you’d need to save around £500,000. This calculation assumes you withdraw 4% of your savings each year in retirement.

What are the benefits of the FIRE method?

Working towards financial independence could help improve your financial wellbeing. Saving for your future is also wise, as you might not be able to entirely rely on the state to fund your desired retirement.

Investing can help mitigate the impact of inflation on your savings, giving your money the opportunity to grow over time.

What are the potential pitfalls?

Your savings may not be sufficient to fund a potentially extremely long retirement. A 40-year-old UK woman has an average life expectancy of 87 and a one in ten chance of living to 100², so your money might need to last another 50 years or more.

The 4% withdrawal rule was developed using U.S. market performance data from 1926 to 1992 and targeted at retirees with a 30-year time horizon. For a UK investor in the 2020s, with a 50-year time horizon, there’s a real risk that relying on the 4% rule results in savings being depleted too quickly.

As you can’t access money inside personal pensions until age 55 (rising to 57 from April 2028), you would need to have saved a large chunk of money in Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs), which don’t have quite as many perks as pensions.

Next steps If retiring early is important to you, you may wish to speak to a wealth manager. By understanding your financial circumstances, they can determine whether your target retirement date is achievable.

(1) https://yourmoneyoryourlife.com/book-summary/ (2) https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/ healthandsocialcare/healthandlifeexpectancies/articles/ lifeexpectancycalculator/2019-06-07

We live and work local to you. We would be delighted to help you and your family achieve financial clarity and stability.

Kirsty Simpson Wealth Manager Director E: kirsty.simpson@brewin.co.uk Matt Lyth Wealth Manager Director E: matt.lyth@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. 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. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy. Information contained in this document is believed to be reliable and accurate, but without further investigation cannot be warranted as to accuracy or completeness.

RBC Brewin Dolphin is a trading name of RBC Europe Limited. RBC Europe Limited is registered in England and Wales No. 995939. Registered Address: 100 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AA. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. ® / TM Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence.

RBCBDM6926_2607_1

£

Are you a brilliant baker or dazzling designer, aged between 5 and 14? We need you to design a show-stopping cake for our 170th birthday!

O entr pen for ies b etw 30 1 Sep March a een tem n ber d 2026 .

Whether it's shiny like a pound coin, stacked sky-high with candles, or shaped like our famous castle logo - we want you to dream big!

How it works: The top 12 designs will star in our 2027 calendar.

The 11 runners-up will win: • •

A £25 Hobbycraft voucher A special apron, perfect for future makes, bakes, and creative projects!

The overall winner, picked by our judges, will win a £50 Hobbycraft voucher and see their cake design created and baked for real!

How to enter: Scan the QR code or pop into your local branch and ask for a paper entry form.

Terms and conditions apply.

Newbury Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulatedby the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number ʥʣʩʣʪʪʜʡ ʵʦʦʣ Newbury

Building Society

Salisbury’s Leading Independent Senior School & Sixth Form for Girls and Boys

Book Your Bespoke Tour Today Introducing Chafyn Godolphin, an all-through school from Nursery to Sixth Form from September 2026.

For further information, please contact our Admissions team: admissions@godolphin.org www.godolphin.org 01722 430 545 admissions@godolphin.org

www.godolphin.org

01722 430 545