Winchester Forum - Issue 11 - November 2024 by Mark Tubb

Life in your City Winchester

FORUM

NEWS & EVENTS FOR NOVEMBER

Find out what's going on in the City of Winchester

COOKING THE BOOKS

Written by Lucia Foster-Found

HAMPSHIRE & ISLE OF WIGHT TRUST

Environment FeatureDancing Demoiselles

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Warming Beef & Pumpkin Stew

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Editor

Director

Steve

Advertising

Mandy

November/December Events

Winchester Bonfire & Fireworks Night

Saturday 9 November

From 6pm

North Walls Recreation Ground Winchester, SO23 7DD

The torchlight procession is an annual tradition in Winchester and it’s free to join. Proceeds from tickets, merchandise and donations are given to local good causes. For more information visit: https://winchesterbonfire.co.uk/

Hampshire Medical Fund Christmas Fair

Thur 14 & Fri 15 November

From 9.30am to 4pm

Black Chalk Winery, Nr Stockbridge, SP11 7JX

Come and enjoy two days of festive shopping at the Hampshire Medical Fund Christmas Fair on 14th - 15th November at Black Chalk Winery! Browse a fantastic variety of stalls offering gifts for everyone on your Christmas list, whatever their age, ranging from home and garden finds to gadgets, toys, pampering treats, clothing, jewellery, art, quirky treasures, and accessories. There is also a delicious on-site cafe, so you can shop and eat with friends! The event opens on the evening of 14th November with the option of drinks, supper, and shopping. Or join us on Friday for a full day of shopping from 9.30am to 4pm. 10% of all sales benefit the charity! Tickets cost from £6 for the 15th (when purchased in advance). For 14th evening, tickets cost £12 for drinks and shopping and £20 for drinks, supper and shopping. www.hampshiremedicalfund.org/ for tickets and information.

Viennese Christmas Spectacular

Friday 15 November

From 7.30pm to 9.30pm

Winchester Cathedral, 9 The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS

Always a winning concert, with

a combination of pieces that our audience loves, this concert celebrates the magic of Christmas and brings people together for a sensational evening of wonderful music.

Winchester Makers Market: Festive Edition

Saturday 16 November

From 10am to 4pm

Performance Hall, Jewry Street, Winchester, SO23 8SB

Coming soon to our performance hall and around the library, the Winchester Makers Market will showcase an array of unique and locally crafted goods from talented artists and creatives in our community. Expect beautiful homemade products, gift ideas, tasty café refreshments and exciting performances throughout the day- all with a festive twist! Tickets: Free and open to all

Naomi House & Jacksplace - Comedy Night

Sunday 17 November

From 7.45pm

Theatre Royal, Jewry Street, Winchester, SO23 8SB

Join Naomi House & Jacksplace for an evening of hilarious comedy with Paul McCaffrey at Theatre Royal, Winchester. www.naomihouse.org.uk/ comedynight24

Winchester Go-LD Annual Quiz Night

Friday 29 November

From 7pm for 7.15pm

Twyford Village Hall, Hazeley Road, Twyford, SO21 1NH

Ticket: £160 for a table of 8. Includes a light supper and a cash bar. Good Raffle Prizes! Tickets are available via email: Fundraising@winchestergold.org. uk or contact: Ros Nell, rosnell83@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ winchestergold.org.uk

Winchester Symphony Orchestra - Autumn Concert

Saturday 23 November

From 7.30pm

New Hall, College Walk, Winchester, SO23 9NG

Nielsen: Maskarade Overture

Elgar: Cello Concerto (John Myerscough, soloist) Prokofiev: Symphony No.5

Owslebury Christmas Arts and Craft Fair

Saturday 23 November

From 10.30am

Owslebury Village Parish Hall Main Road, Winchester, SO21 1LN

Rare opportunity to buy truly unique gifts made by hand. Tchaikovsky’s elegant Nutcracker Suite leads on from Brahms’ serious Hungarian Dance No. 5, before Strauss II introduces us to the boundless exuberance of the Polish March in his Trisch-Trasch Polka. In the concert’s penultimate work Tchaikovsky transports the evening to the magical halls of snowy Tsarist Russia with a regal waltz from his ballet Sleeping Beauty.

Steam Illuminations at the Watercress Line

Various dates and times

Mid Hants Railway 'Watercress Line' The Railway Station Alresford, SO24 9JG

Steam Illuminations returns to

The Watercress Line (November to January). Experience an incredible light show on and in a steam train, consisting of thousands of coloured lights and LED wristbands, creating a kaleidoscope of different colours and flashing patterns, includes 'Canopy of Lights' a sound to light show inside every carriage. NEW for 2024 'Snow Cascade', an incredible snowflake light projection! Enjoy the interactive sound to light fun all while hosted by the legendary 'Voiceover Man' (as heard on Britain's Got Talent and X-Factor); laugh with him (or at him) and compete against each other with the singalong "FlashyOke" game".

Christmas Gurkha Curry Lunch

Saturday 29 November

From 12.30pm

The Gurkha Museum, Peninsula Barracks, Winchester, SO23 8TP

Join us for a delicious two course Nepali curry lunch with a Christmas twist – a tot of sherry on arrival and complimentary drink. Lunch will take place in our grand McDonald Gallery, which houses our unique picture, silver and medal collection. Gurkha curry lunches take place on the last Friday of each month. All welcome. Ticket price includes two course curry lunch and a visit to the Museum. There is a cash bar available. Arrive at 12.30pm for a 1pm sit down. Christmas attire optional. Please note: Dessert will be Traditional Christmas Pudding and Brandy Sauce

If you would like to feature a FREE event lisitng on this page then please send it to editor@ forumpublications.co.uk

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Ladycroft Lakehouse – £1,750,000 Freehold

A terrifically rare opportunity. Situated in a very private clearing within its grounds near the Watercress Meadows, this substantial house is a wonderful opportunity for those looking to develop a property in a stunning location. The plot of approximately 6.7 acres offers an array of wide lawns, long drive, private lake, streams and mature woodland. No onward chain.

EPC: D Council Tax: G

City Centre – £475,000 Share of Freehold

A truly immaculate mews house in a particularly secure and private position in the centre of Winchester. Built in 2015, the property is appointed and decorated to a very high standard, the vendor has meticulously maintained the lovely elements of the home. Offering two double bedrooms, open plan living room/kitchen. Dual access to the courtyard garden and allocated gated parking.

EPC: C Council Tax: C

& LETTINGS AGENTS

St.Thomas Street – £975,000 Freehold

At over 2000 square feet, this spacious and versatile property is situated in one of the most sought after locations in Winchester. Offering five bedrooms, social kitchen with adjacent garden room, off road parking, garage and glorious far reaching views of St. Catherine's Hill and the Cathedral.

EPC: C Council Tax: F

Magdalen Hill – £675,000 Share of Freehold

This striking and contemporary townhouse offers three bedrooms and is situated in an elevated position on the side of St. Gile's Hill, with stunning postcard-views of Winchester City centre. The accommodation is particularly versatile and there is a large courtyard garden, roof terrace and gated underground parking.

EPC: C Council Tax: D

Winchester Rotary Donation to Winchester Hospice

As a result of its fundraising efforts during the Rotary year 2023-24, Winchester Rotary has been able to continue its support for Winchester Hospice by presenting a cheque for just in excess of £25,000 to Maddy Thomson the Clinical Lead for end-of-life care, and Nick Vaughan, Chair of the Hospice Trustees. Les Haswell (2023-24 Club President) was accompanied by Paul Russell (current President), and their fellow Rotarians Nick Bell and Diana Brooks. Nick organised the Watercress Way sponsored walk and the funds raised by the walk and sales of Diana’s children’s books contributed to the total.

Winchester Rotary first became a supporter of what was at the time, a project to convert the semi-derelict Burrell House into a 10-bed palliative care facility for the people of Winchester and the surrounding area. Like most hospices, the running costs of Winchester Hospice are only part funded by the NHS and it relies heavily on donations, bequests and fundraising events organised by its fundraising team, supported by outside organisations like Rotary to generate income to cover its running costs.

Winchester Rotary has been privileged to support the Hospice and its dedicated staff in providing care not only in the hospice building but a home service to the community.

Jo Westerman, Fundraising Officer at Winchester Hospice, said: “We’re incredibly grateful for the invaluable support we’ve had from Winchester Rotary. They’ve been incredible supporters of ours since we opened three years ago, and even before that, helping to raise the funds to build the hospice. Their support means that our team is able to be there for local people and their families when they need us most.”

The Country House CompanyProperties For Sale / To Let

SOBERTON

For Sale – Price guide

£775,000

An extremely elegant 4 bedroom terraced home with contemporary styling, approaching 2,800 sq ft of accommodation, private parking and garage. The Towers was constructed in the late 19th century and was previously a private residence, a prep school and a home for Wrens serving HMS Mercury in the war. In the late 1970s, it was sympathetically converted into nine homes. This prestigious property retains its elegant façade and the accommodation has been upgraded and styled by the current owners and is arranged over three floors with original features retained to include high ceilings and sash windows. Soberton lies to the west of the River Meon in the heart of the Meon valley and South Downs National Park. There are local footpaths and bridleways in abundance including the disused railway line itself nearby. Within an easy stroll is The White Lion public house with further amenities at Droxford. Local schools are at Soberton & Newtown Infants and Droxford Junior both marked outstanding by Ofsted. Westhill Park, Twyford School, Boundary Oak, Winchester College, St Swithun’s and Bedales are also close by.

Contact: katep@countryhousecompany.co.uk ot call: 01962 571189 www.countryhousecompany.co.uk

MEONSTOKE

To Let – Fully Managed - £2,250

Winchester Rotary

Secretary: secretary@winchester-rotary.org

Media officer: media@winchester-rotary.org

Membership lead: membership@winchester-rotary.org

President, Community lead: president@winchester-rotary.org

A charming 4 bedroom cottage peacefully positioned in the centre of this sought after Meon valley village. Meonstoke is a popular village situated within the South Downs National Park. The village has an outstanding preschool and infant school (with free transport to Droxford Junior and Swanmore College), a public house, church, children’s play areas, skate park, tennis court, an outdoor gym, an active village hall and a local store with post office. The area is ideal for leisure pursuits with nearby Corhampton Golf Club, footpaths, cycle paths and bridleways. Mainline services to London run from Petersfield and Winchester. The A3/M3/M27 motorways and the South Coast are all easily accessible.

Contact: Claudia@countryhousecompany.co.uk or call: 01962 571189 www.countryhousecompany.co.uk

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The South Downs National Park News

The life of a South Downs Ranger: “This is long but satisfying work”

Ethan Purdy, Assistant Ranger, discusses the recent work of volunteers to help maintain the South Downs Way.

Snaking its way along the very spine of the chalk, the South Downs Way is a 100-milelong exhibition to one of the best natural galleries in the UK. Artwork by nature and toil adorn its path in vistas stretching into the sea. It’s a wonderful testament to the beauty of our landscape, and one which we’re lucky enough to call ours.

With this ownership, comes responsibility, however. Left with no management – time and flora would reclaim the path and make it untraversable. So, with the steady hands of our volunteers, and trusted tools, we keep this trail open, for many more to discover its wonder.

Last month we completed a section of this work near Cocking, West Sussex. The volunteers – armed with grass hooks – cut swathes into the bank vegetation, raking the material up and collecting it to be

unloaded in a prepared deposit site. This is long but satisfying work. The volunteers were also in charge of sharpening their own equipment as the day went on and found great satisfaction in keeping their tools in fine fettle – if for no other reason, because it makes them far more effective!

The collection of this material is for ecological benefit too. The verges can be a haven for many species, including many butterflies, and by collecting the cuttings volunteers allow this site to attempt to return to the chalk grassland we so desperately need in the National Park. Cumulatively over the past two centuries we have lost more than 80% of the chalk grassland in the UK. So, the ribbons that adorn the edges of the South Downs Way may well make all the difference.

When the engines of the brushcutters aren’t running, work up on the hill is a peaceful endeavour. A view to the horizon, filled with a patchwork of farms, soft green envelopes of woodland and in the distance, the caliginosity of the sea.

Moments like those make for opportunities to remember that within those confines, we get to make a difference.

Hurrah for hedges in the South Downs!

“Hampshire Hedgerows” has drawn together landowners, farmers, young people and volunteers to help create and restore hedgerows that provide an essential refuge for wildlife.

Supporting some 130 different flora and fauna, hedges and their flowers, berries and nuts are a vital food source for invertebrates, birds and mammals, including some very rare ones such as the hazel dormouse, while bats use them as “commuter routes” for foraging and roosting.

Small but mighty, they also clean our air, capture carbon, reduce flooding and give clues to historic land management.

The project was a partnership between the National Park, Selborne Landscape Partnership and Winchester Downs Farm Cluster, and supported by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Dozens of students from Collyer’s College, Horsham and Chichester College attended hedgelaying training days.

In total, 187 people of all ages received training.

Laura Sercombe, Director of Landscape and Strategy for the National Park, said: “Hedgerows are such an important part of our landscape heritage and it’s wonderful to see them being restored.

“With farmland covering some 70 per cent of the National Park, hedges are absolutely vital to supporting farmland wildlife and also play a key role in soil health.

“It’s fantastic that young people are being trained in the rural skill of hedgelaying, encouraging future generations to keep this tradition alive.”

Meanwhile, the Hampshire Hedge project, led by CPRE Hampshire, continues in earnest, with the aim of connecting the New Forest and South Downs National Parks with 14 miles of new hedgerow.

Almost 15 miles of hedgerow have been restored over the past three years in the western section of the National Park following a big community effort.

Rangers Ethan Purdy (right) and Sophie Brown carrying out work to install a new fingerpost on the South Downs Way

Financial planning tips for entrepreneurs

It can be easy to neglect your own finances when you’re focused on growing your business. But creating a solid plan for both your business and personal finances can give you more confidence your hard work will pay off.

Here are five financial planning tips for entrepreneurs.

1. Make the most of pensions

Relying solely on your business to provide for retirement is risky.

Making contributions into a pension could help you save for retirement. As a business owner, you can make your own tax-efficient savings into your pension and make employer contributions that are deductible against corporation tax.

Your accountant can help you make the most of all the personal and business tax reliefs.

2. Protect against risks

Insure not just your business premises and stock, but also what’s arguably your most valuable asset – yourself. Protection against death and illness could be crucial. Also consider key person protection and shareholder protection to minimise disruption should the worst happen to one of your key members of staff or shareholders.

Insure not just your business premises and stock, but also what’s arguably your most valuable asset – yourself. Protection against death and illness could be crucial.

Also consider key person protection and shareholder protection to minimise disruption should the worst happen to one of your key members of staff or shareholders.

Finally, make sure your will states who will receive your shares or business interest when you die.

3. Plan your exit strategy

Planning your exit early could reap rewards. Work with a financial adviser to determine your ‘magic number’ – how much you would need from a sale to achieve your desired lifestyle. The adviser can also help you work out how much your future lifestyle might cost, and whether your finances are sufficient.

If you are hoping to leave your business to your family, you might qualify for business relief. This could mean there is no inheritance tax to pay on your company shares when you die.

4. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket

While growing your business should be the priority, also consider investing across other asset classes, such as equities, bonds, and cash. This could help to cushion the impact if your company doesn’t perform quite as well as expected.

We can help you build a diversified portfolio that suits your individual needs and objectives.

5. Surround yourself with experts

At RBC Brewin Dolphin, we can introduce you to the right people at the right stage of your journey – whether that’s venture capital firms, lawyers, tax advisers or accountants.

We’ve worked with thousands of business owners, supporting them in making the right decisions. With us at your side, you can concentrate on looking forward to the future with confidence.

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

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W: brewin.co.uk/our-offices/winchester

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. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy.

Mr. Mac

High Speed Internet for everyone

I visit many people in rural locations where the internet service is really bad. Many people ask me about the possibility of using the Starlink Satellite Internet service but are frightened off by thinking that it is too expensive. The good news is that the price has dropped and that you can now purchase a kit from John Lewis that you can have up and running very quickly. The Starlink Standard Kit, latest generation is just £299.00. It is also portable so ideal for a holiday home or caravan. The monthly subscription is £75.

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Sky TV, while offering an attractive initial package, can quickly become expensive when factoring in add-ons like HD, Ultra HD, Sky Go, and the extra subscriptions for services like Disney+, Paramount+, and Netflix. These additional costs can make Sky less appealing, especially when compared to alternatives like the Apple TV HD box. With an Apple TV box, you can access a wide range of streaming services. Additionally, you can still access Sky's content through Now TV, without needing a full Sky subscription. This flexibility allows you to better control your costs and tailor your viewing experience to what you actually want, making it a smart choice for many.

Apple have just updated their popular iPad Mini. Available now in four different colours. Buy it from John Lewis and get an extra twelve-month warranty. In the pipeline from Apple in November is a new Mac Mini complete with redesign and the MacBook Pro series will benefit from the new Apple M4 processor. That is all for this month, in the next issue look out for Christmas present tips.

Andy - Mr Mac 07392 552 592

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Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery

November Events

EXHIBITIONS

7 - 20 November: Mindscapes, an exhibition of paintings by artist Kim Cody. Meet the artist: Kim will be in the Gallery on 8 November to answer questions and talk about her work and techniques, drop in from 11am - 3pm.

24 - 26 November: a mini exhibition of artworks by local home educating families and on 30 November - 1 January: Made and More, an exhibition of artworks and craft by local artists and makers. Find unique gifts to buy - all items will be available to purchase on the spot. (Just in time for Christmas).

WORKSHOP

(bookable in advance online): Wednesday 20 November, Allen Gallery: Japanese calligraphy workshop with artist Sachiko Mason, 10.30am - 1.30pm, (adults) £30/£24, please book online. If you are unable to make online bookings please contact us on 01420 82802 and we may be able to assist you (subject to availability).

THE FRIENDS OF THE CURTIS MUSEUM AND ALLEN GALLERY TALK

The talk for November will be on Butser Ancient Farm, by Thérèse Kearns. Allen Gallery, 14th November at 7.30pm, FREE, donations welcome.

OPENING TIMES

Tuesday to Sunday Curtis Museum 10am – 4.30pm High Street, Alton, GU34 1BA www.hampshireculture.org.uk/curtis-museum Tel: 01420 82802

Allen Gallery 10.30am – 4pm 10-12, Church St, Alton GU34 2BW www.hampshireculture.org.uk/allen-gallery Tel: 01420 82802

aura jewellery

A creative independent jewellers situated in the heart of Winchester. The diversity of their jewellery appeals to a wide range of tastes, whether traditional, extravagant, classic or modern. They offer an extensive range of carefully curated silver and gold jewellery from simple silver earrings to precious stone-set pieces and pride themselves on offering a friendly service without high pressure sales.

They also have a collection of unique hand-made pieces which have been lovingly designed and created in their on-site workshop. With a passion for all jewellery from antique to contemporary, they work with customers to help find the right piece for the right occasion. They also enjoy creating new commissioned pieces, melting down old gold to make an entirely new item, or remodelling existing jewellery to give it a new lease of life. Repairs are another service offered, whether the item is fine jewellery or a fashion piece – they love it all!

A visit to aura will be sure to provide plenty of inspiration for unique and special Christmas gifts, from a stylish pair of silver earrings to a precious stone set piece in gold or platinum that’s sure to delight.

Allen Gallery

Curtis Museum

Cooking The Books

© Lucia Foster-Found 2024 www.luciafosterfound.com

She was in the kitchen, at last unpacking her many (many) cookery books, deciding which ones to keep. Not all of them, obviously – that much paper in one place was probably a fire hazard. It was taking a long time because she couldn’t resist leafing through the pages. Those pages that weren’t stuck together with ancient cake mix, that is.

“It’s like a culinary journey through my life,” she said as Himself wandered in. He picked up an old and tattered copy of the Cookery Year. She was feeling a bit old and tattered too, so she empathised. “Obviously that one’s literally a culinary journey through a year of my life. It’s all about seasonality and probably the only cookbook you really need,” she wittered, oblivious to the look Himself was giving to the piles that surrounded her.

“What are you going to do with the ones you don’t need?” Himself picked up another tome. “Like this one.. I mean,” he peered at a page, “do you think you’ll develop an urge to make jelly whip anytime soon?”

She consigned the book to a pile and said, “I’m recycling them. Not sure what form that’ll take, but I can’t bring myself to just throw them away. Especially that one,” she pointed a finger and Himself picked it up. Looking at the cover photo he exclaimed incredulously, “Is that…?”

“Yep. Mary Berry circa 1986. Microwaving was her thing then.”

“What about this one? It’s falling apart.” He said.

“Delia’s complete cookery course. It’s the only cookbook you really need.”

“You said that already.” Himself peered at her over a picture of a smiling Delia, a demure Delia, a Delia it was inconceivable would ever yell in bellicose fashion at a football crowd,

‘Let’s be ‘avvin you’..

He put down the dilapidated copy as she observed, “Well, those two and Nigella Express are the only cookbooks I probably will ever need. Given that I get most recipes online, I keep the physical copies just for the comfort value.”

Himself replaced the book on the floor. “I wonder about that – these celebrity chefs, how do they make any money if people look online for recipes?”

“No idea, but Ina Garten has a house in

The Hamptons and an apartment in Paris. Go figure.” Consigning a heap of Jamies, Hughs and Gordons to a box, she decided to car boot them. There’d been a house move and she felt that some things didn’t belong in her new home. Also, there’d been a big birthday and she felt that some clothes didn’t belong in her new decade either.

All in all, there was plenty of stuff to sell.. She was back from the boot sale by midday with a fair haul in her bum bag - a useful article, if unattractively named. Still, she was grateful she didn’t live in America where she’d have to call it a fanny pack.

Pleased with her efforts, she set about putting a quick lunch together.

As, presently, Himself tucked into his pudding, he murmured appreciatively, “Lovely lunch darling. And this mousse is delicious.” “Jelly whip.”

“Sorry?”

“It’s jelly whip – I developed the urge to make it. And the rest of the dinner was courtesy of a flaxen-haired Mary Berry and her erstwhile obsession with microwaves.” She commented. Later that evening found her crouched over her laptop at the kitchen table; new home, new

household accounts spreadsheet.

“Cooking the books?” Himself wandered in from the garden, wild-haired and smokesmudged where he’d been trying to tame the wilderness with his own unique style of slashand-burn gardening more redolent of Edward Teach than Alan Titmarsh.

“Something like that.” She was in her happy place, adding in the proceeds of her morning’s selling to next year’s holiday fund. Lots had been sold, although none of the cookbooks –there was a glut. She’d seen Jamie, Hugh and Gordon on others’ stalls, jostling for position with Christian and Harry. No contest, she’d thought as she packed her chefs away and took them home - who didn’t appreciate a man who could cook a nice roast?

Himself looked up at the shelf that had lately, and for no clear reason, housed a large collection of mid-century magazines and many other assorted items he’d been meaning to sell, but somehow never quite got around to.

A long line of cookery book spines presented themselves instead – and fleetingly he wondered about that, before ambling over to the fridge for some more of that delicious jelly whip..

Fawley Farm, Hempland, Lane, Privett, Hampshire, GU34 3NU www.fawleyfarmfeeds.co.uk

The Old Dairy Tearoom

Serving breakfast, lunch and lots of home made cakes, cream teas and takeaways to eat in or out. All food is freshly prepared and cooked in our kitchen to order. We buy as locally as we can. We are happy to take bookings for group meetings. We have free wi-fi and are laptop friendly so if you want a change from a desk and fresh coffee on tap the door is open.

Come in and enjoy a Coffee – Tea – Milkshake – Smoothies and lots more. Cyclists, horse riders, dog walkers, are all welcome. We are dog friendly with lots of parking and enough space for a tractor or two if you’re busy with harvest.

OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY: 8.30AM - 4.30PM SUNDAY: 9AM - 3PM

We offer a wide range of equine and animal feeds, hay, straw, supplements, bedding and equestrian accessories from the top brand names, bringing

OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY: 8.30AM - 5PM

Winchester City Council News

‘Well-respected and high-performing’: Local Government Association gives positive review of city council

A recent peer review of Winchester City Council by the Local Government Association found the local authority to be a well-respected and high-performing organisation with a record of strong service delivery.

All councils across the country are encouraged to take part in a Corporate Peer Challenge (CPC) to provide robust and credible challenge to support councils.

In July this year, the city council invited a peer team to provide external feedback on how it was performing and how it could improve. For two and a half days the peer

New Pavilion at River Park given the go ahead

Councillors at Winchester City Council's Cabinet on 15 October have given approval for the replacement of the pavilion at River Park.

The current pavilion has become run down over the years and has reached the stage where it needs to be replaced.

Across Winchester district, there is a rich cricket heritage and investment in this facility further cements the district as a home for cricket. However, recognising it’ll be an asset for community groups beyond cricket, Cabinet agreed that it would be called River Park Pavilion to reflect this wider use and community benefit. The facility could also be used for other activities such as yoga classes, children’s parties and overflow facilities for the rugby club, and park run.

The funding approved at the meeting, reflects a total investment of £2.3 million which includes capital funding from the city council, £1.5 million from district community infrastructure levy and

team, made up of councillors and officers from other councils, spent time with the city council taking a deep dive into how it’s run.

The review examined five key areas, including the council’s local priorities and outcomes, its governance and culture, and its financial planning and management, with the peer team conducting a review of evidence that included analysing data, interviewing staff and councillors and speaking to key partners.

In its feedback report, the CPC stated that the city council was a “well-respected and high-performing council, delivering for residents and partners”. The report continued: “The peer team heard positive feedback regarding the council’s performance and was satisfied that the city council is wellmanaged and benefits from a Leader and Chief Executive who are respected by staff, members and external stakeholders”.

The report also highlighted a number of other areas of positive action from the city council, including its prudent financial management, the work it is doing to address climate change and its efforts to consult and engage with residents on important decisions.

Speaking about the review, City Council Leader Cllr Martin Tod said:

"It's been very helpful to have people from other Councils and from the Local Government Association come in and review what we're doing. It's a really positive and helpful process and a very encouraging report. We are always looking for ways to improve how we serve our area's residents and communities, so the recommendations are welcome. We'll be acting on them and look forward to welcoming the team back next year to review our progress".

Nine recommendations were included in the report to help the council address future challenges, realise efficiencies and improve services, each of which have been addressed in a high-level action plan subsequently produced by the city council.

The full feedback report, and Winchester City Council’s action plan, can be read on our website: https://www.winchester.gov.uk/ about/corporate-peer-challenge

contributions from the Town Forum, The Pavilion Project and grant funding. Cabinet approved the budget recognising that further delay would only increase costs further and that a facility like this is much needed for the residents across the district who use the park.

Winchester City Council Cllr Kathleen Becker, Cabinet Member for Community and Engagement, said: ‘I am so pleased that we will see this much anticipated and important community project come to fruition– it’ll be a much-

used high quality facility for a number of district clubs and the local community. I’m particularly pleased that the plans mean the new pavilion will be fully accessible and will also have usable female toilets helping remove barriers for people with disabilities and women and girls being able to actively participate in sport and activities.

I have no doubt that this will be a valued community asset, helping create stronger, healthier communities serving everyone across the district and I look forward to seeing its completion.’

Skin & Beauty experts

Autumn | Winter Season

Treatments Include:

Polynucleotides

Emsculpt Neo

BTL EMSELLA

Pain-Free Laser Hair Removal

The Non-Surgical Lift Package

The Perfect Peel

Dermal Fillers

Hydrafacial

Skin Tag Removal & Sterex

Facials

Profhilo

Chemical Peels

Beauty & Massages

Thread Veins

Aqualyx

IPL Treatments

Radiofrequency Microneedling & HIFU

Wrinkle Treatments

Treatments for Men & Women

Emsculpt Neo

Book a course of four Abdomen Emsculpt Neo treatments with your partner or friend and the original treatment cost will be shared between you. This will save each of you £1000 from the original £2000 treatment cost.

The treatments will be performed side by side on the comfort of your own luxury treatment couches as the appointments are required to be performed together.

The treatment is designed to help:

Abdomen Arms Calves Bum Thighs

Help eliminate fat cells and build muscle in a single 30-minute treatment

The EMSELLA Chair

Say no to incontinence and yes to confidence.

BTL EMSELLA represents a new category of technology that provides a non-invasive treatment for pelvic ﬂoor. muscles in incontinence, intimate discomfort and improvement of sexual health, for men and women.

The treatment is designed to help:

Stress Incontinence

Urge Incontinence

Female Sexual Dysfunction

Dancing Demoiselles

On sunny days, the glint of a banded or beautiful demoiselle is quite a sight to behold. At just 4.5cm long, these species are Britain’s biggest damselflies – the smaller, slenderer cousins of dragonflies. Their two pairs of wings are also the same shape, whereas dragonflies tend to have bottom wings that are broader and shorter than the top ones. In comparison to that of their larger relatives, the flight of damselflies is slow, gentle, and fluttery.

Like many wildlife species, demoiselles are sexually dimorphic, which means that the sexes are visually distinguishable from each other. The males are inky blue with a turquoise sheen (both species), while the females are metallic green (banded) or greenish-bronze (beautiful). Due to these similarities, the two species can look very similar at first glance, but they can quickly be identified by their unique wing colours.

Unlike dragonflies, which hold their wings out to the side, demoiselles fold theirs vertically along their bodies. Those of the males are dark all over (beautiful) or have a dark patch in the middle (banded). In females, the difference is more subtle: their wings are brown (beautiful) or green (banded), with a faint white spot at the tip. In fact, demoiselles are the only British damselflies whose wings have colour!

Demoiselles start their lives as eggs, which the females inject into the stems of plants like water crowfoot – they may even go below the surface to find a good spot. Two weeks later, the young hatch as larvae; a life stage that lasts for two years. They spend this time among submerged plants, eating smaller invertebrates and hiding from predators. In the higher flows of winter, they may hunker down in mud, silt, and gravel.

Upon reaching adulthood, the larvae climb up emergent plants that root in the water but extend above the surface. Once in the fresh air, they shed their exoskeletons and take to the sky on their newly unfurled wings. In flight, both species are fierce predators that catch other insects with their six bristly legs. You might also see them basking in the morning sun and sheltering in vegetation as night falls or wet weather arrives.

For the most part, though, demoiselle adulthood is about reproduction. The males take and defend small territories, performing dances to attract passing females. If the wooing goes well, each pair forms a “wheel” or “heart” shape for mating, and he leads her to a good egg-laying site. Look out for this amazing spectacle between April and October, but particularly on bright, dry, windless days between May and August.

The lush plant life of our chalk streams makes them great habitats for both demoiselle species.

Being more sensitive, beautiful demoiselles are especially fond of the gravelly beds, consistent temperature, and clean, oxygen-rich water. If we want to give these incredible insects a home, we need to keep our streams healthy by tackling pollution and agricultural runoff, reducing water abstraction, and letting vegetation flourish along the riverbanks.

If you’d like to learn more about chalk stream wildlife, check out the Watercress and Winterbournes scheme by visiting hiwwt.org.uk/ winterbournes. Our work is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Free Online Talk

Managing Highway Runoff Pollution in Rivers - 19th November at 7pm, Online

When rain falls on roads, it collects a toxic cocktail of oil, paint, metal, microplastics, and fuel residue. If it then flows into our chalk streams, either directly or via a storm drain, it can cause serious damage. Join us to learn how communities can tackle this issue.

Book your ticket at hiwwt.org.uk/winterbournes

rawlingsopticians co uk

60 High Street, Winchester, SO23 9BX

Rawlings Opticians and Hearing Care, Alresford

Rawlings Opticians & Hearing Care offer appointments for free hearing assessments, wax removal for adults and children aged 5 and over, and ear plug/protection advice and fitting, as well as offering eyecare and contact lenses with an extremely broad range of designer and everyday glasses. Rawlings was established in 1895 by Alfred Rawling – his great great grandson Richard is currently at the helm and other members of his family still work within the company. Rawlings have been looking after generations of family’s eye care for 129 years, with hearing care launched in the past 3 years, due to eyecare patients increasingly requesting hearing services! With local branches across Hampshire, as well as 4 branches in Surrey, their Lymington Hearing Centre is the most recent branch to welcome patients.

Rawlings are proud to be an independent business as this allows them to supply hearing aids and accessories from a range of manufacturers – they are not tied to one brand. This means they can truly give a bespoke service to ensure you get the optimal hearing ability tailored to your specific needs. With accessories to enhance your hearing experience, such as table microphones and television streamers to link seamlessly with you hearing device, Rawlings Hampshire audiology team, Bill and Ryan, can tailor their advice and recommendations to enhance your everyday life. Free hearing comprehensive consultations are available at all their branches.

Wax removal is available for adults and children aged 5 and over, this is a painless procedure using delicate microsuction instruments. Bespoke ear plugs can be supplied to block out a noisy snoring partner or the dawn chorus – or for protection in the workplace.

An experienced team of optometrists are dedicated to giving you all the time you need to ensure you have an unhurried appointment. This means you will be given tailored advice on both your eye health and the best way for you to optimise your vision. Choosing glasses to enhance your image and appearance is a breeze with personal styling from Rawlings dispensing team – qualified dispensing opticians in all their branches means you can be assured of professional advice on which lens type is going to give you the best solution for your visual needs – be that for home, work or play!

Contact lenses are available for all ages, including specialist children’s lenses to slow down the progression of short sight (myopia management), overnight lenses that leave you free from needing glasses or contact lenses during the day (Ortho-K), and multifocal contact lenses for people who don’t want to use reading glasses. Prescriptions are welcomed from other opticians and appointments can be booked online, in person or by phone.

Yes, You SHOULD Feel Good (About Your Vagina)

Those of us who have issues down there know the impact our vagina can have on our quality of life.

But we should ALL feel good about our vaginas.

Ultra Femme 360 is the painless radio frequency treatment that promotes the body’s own natural collagen production to restore and tighten the vaginal area.

From puberty, childbirth, menopause, and all the fun stuff in between, our vaginas go through a lot, and we rarely give them the care they need.

Our vaginal area is just as prone to damage and ageing as the rest of our body. Distressing problems with vaginal laxity, stress incontinence or reduced tissue quality are all experienced by most women at some point in their life.

The Ultra Femme 360 treatment provides total vaginal rejuvenation in one quick and painless treatment that lasts just eight minutes*.

What is Ultra Femme 360?

Ultra Femme 360 is a non-surgical solution for restoring the internal and external vaginal area. As the applicator is guided in and around the vagina, the radio frequency activates our own body’s natural collagen and elastin production, which tightens the vaginal canal and surrounding skin. The low levels of heat from the treatment also encourages blood flow to the area, further boosting the effects.

Feel good…

Who can benefit from Ultra Femme 360?

This is a safe and gentle treatment that is suitable for most women. If you have experienced vaginal changes since childbirth or menopause or have functional issues including stress incontinence or reduced sexual enjoyment, Ultra Femme 360 can tighten, restore, and rejuvenate your vagina for increased confidence and personal wellbeing.

Does the treatment hurt?

We understand that this kind of treatment can feel daunting. However, we aim to make you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout the treatment, which is entirely painless and lasts only 8 minutes. There is no downtime, and you can return to your normal daily activities immediately afterwards. *Recommended one treatment per week for three weeks for the best results.

We are one of the first clinics in the country to offer this treatment and look forward to welcoming you at The Face & Skin Clinic.

Book your treatment today. We should all feel good about our vaginas.

Winchester Festive Events November & December

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is recognised as one of the best in Europe. Taking place from 22 November until 22 December and is open Sunday to Thursday from 10am to 6pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 8pm. Winchester Cathedral's Christmas Market is renowned for its bustling atmosphere, stunning location and handpicked high quality exhibitors, which attracts visitors from around the world each year who come to shop at the pretty wooden chalets, situated within the historic grounds.

The wooden chalets are inspired by traditional German Christmas Markets, and combined with the festive lighting, the sound of Christmas carols and the aroma of mulled wine and cinnamon drifting in the air, visitors will be transported into a festive setting to purchase their Christmas gifts and take in the atmosphere.

For those in search of an authentic Christmas experience, the Cathedral is at the heart of the city's celebration, with its many Christmas services, carol concerts, events.

Santa's Grotto at the Great Hall, Winchester

This Christmas, unwrap a memory-making adventure that your family will treasure for years to come as you take part in the

Santa's Grotto experience at The Great Hall! The Grotto is open from the 30 November to 22 December, visit the Great Hall's website for session times: https:// www.historicwinchester.co.uk/great-hallwestgate-museum

Naomi House - Winchester Santa Fun Run

Our Santa Fun Run is a popular tradition in Winchester and takes place on Sunday 1 December 2024. Join a flurry of Santas in a festive Zumba warm up in front of the Guildhall steps - a truly magical experience to be a part of, before embarking on a 5k route around the historic streets of Winchester city centre. In addition to our classic 5k, we’re introducing a shorter 2k, perfect for those who want to enjoy the festivities without the longer distance. You can walk, skip, jump or dance the Santa Fun Run in your merriest manner. A great opportunity to kick start the Christmas period with friends and family. This year we have swapped out the Santa suits for brand new Santa t-shirts. To register visit: https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/ WinchesterSFR24. Please note: image showing people wearing Santa suits is from previous years events, and used for promotion only.

Winchester Cathedral Lantern Parade

Fun for all the family, Winchester Cathedral's popular Winter event returns and everyone is welcome to join in. The latern parade will be held on Thursday 28 November from 5.30pm at Winchester Cathedral Nave grounds and the city centre. The event is free of charge. The annual lantern parade returns to Winchester Cathedral, and this year the theme is Christmas Creatures. Join Winchester Cathedral in coming together to celebrate Christmas with music, lanterns, and the Christmas Market. Parade from Winchester Cathedral through Winchester with your lanterns and light the way back to the cathedral where The Very Revd Catherine Ogle Dean of Winchester will pick three favourites from her evening of judging, with a prize for all winners. Dean Catherine’s favourite lantern creator will help to switch on the Cathedral lights at the end of the parade. To register your participation in the Lantern Parade please visit: https:// www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/bookonline/366001

Please note that registering interest is not essential for attendance but would be appreciated by Winchester Cathedral so preparations can be made for expected numbers.

Winchester Christmas Lights Switch on

The 2024 festive season kicks off on 14 November with the Christmas lights switch on between 4.30pm and 7.30pm. Then Winchester district comes alive with a range of festive activities carrying on into the New Year. Taking place in The Broadway outside the Guildhall, the Winchester Christmas lights will be switched on by local heroes nominated by the public. The event is hosted by Heart Radio and promises an evening full of festive fun. For more information visit: https://winchesterbid.co.uk/ christmas-2024/

Carmina Burana and excerpts from West Side Story

Here’s a performance you won't want to miss! Under the masterful direction of conductor David Gibson, a vast group of singers and musicians will bring you some of the most iconic classical pieces of the 20th century. Get ready to be dazzled by Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana and swept up in the magic of excerpts from Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story, featuring such timeless favourites as Maria, America, Somewhere, and Tonight.

Joining the Southampton Philharmonic and Southampton University Philharmonic Choirs for Carmina Burana are the Southampton Primary Robins, a fantastic children’s choir made up of around 100 primary school children from the City of Southampton. These talented young singers are part of the nationwide ‘Primary Robins’ project, founded and funded by Pimlico Opera, with coaching from David Gibson, who’s been a key part of their project from the very beginning.

This unforgettable night also features soloists, Elinor Rolfe Johnson (soprano), Stephen Anthony Brown (tenor) and Harry Thatcher (baritone), as well as the London-based Docklands Sinfonia, a professional orchestra boasting some of the top instrumentalists from the Capital. If you caught their Southampton performance of A Sea Symphony last December, you already know the incredible energy and quality they bring. And prepare yourself for the thunderous percussion section that Carmina Burana is famous for — expect plenty of dramatic (and intentional!) bangs and crashes! It’s the perfect introduction to the magic of live classical music!

Christmas with Southern Voices

Bringing their ruby anniversary season to a close on 21 December in the Chapel of St Cross, Winchester at 7.30pm, Southern Voices look forward to celebrating in style with their traditional, festive feast of Christmas carols both old and new.

To make it really special, this year they are thrilled to welcome Royal Harpist Alis Huws to accompany them in Benjamin Britten’s iconic

SATURDAY 7 DECEMBER 2024

SOUTHAMPTON PHILHARMONIC CHOIR

Doors open at 5.30 p.m. for the 6.30 p.m. concert. (Please note the earlier than usual start time.) Tickets may be bought online at o2guildhallsouthampton.co.uk (tickets bought online are issued as e-tickets), priced at £17.40, £24.00 and £30.60. All prices include booking fees and the o2 Guildhall Southampton’s restoration levy of £1.85.

There is an additional handling charge per transaction of £2.85. Concessions are available for the disabled, carers accompanying the disabled, job-seekers, students and children.

O2 Guildhall Southampton Saturday, 7 December, starting at 6.30pm.

Ceremony of Carols. Originally scored for three-part treble chorus, Southern Voices will perform its 1943 arrangement, which is performed less frequently, for mixed choir. This will be a real treat and the perfect way to round off a superb year of music-making. Booking is essential and tickets are now on sale.

Tickets: £19 (Age 21 & under, £10) from: southernvoices.co.uk/christmas or telephone 0333 666 3366 (booking fees apply). There will be a retiring collection in aid of the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. Registered charity 1086868

Docklands Sinfonia David Gibson (conductor)

Martin Crawley, 2024

Theatre, Shows & Concerts

Dilettante + Provincials

Blank Atlas are a Bristol Based, Alt Rock 3 piece boasting 3 part harmonies, dirty riffs and huge choruses. Taking inspiration from bands ranging from Meshuggah to McFly.

Kris Drever

Dilettante is the art-pop brainchild of multi-instrumentalist Francesca Pidgeon. Live shows are a genre-phobic loop-fest, featuring everything from fuzzy guitar licks to 5-part saxophone harmonies. Tickets available from the website.

Fleetwood Collective

Winner - BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Singer of the Year 2017. Tickets available from the website.

The Ramonas + Skinny Bob + The Winona Ryders

The Ramonas are the very best in tribute acts to the iconic New York forerunners of punk; The Ramones. Tickets available from the website.

Sound of the Sirens

Fleetwood Collective is a collaboration between some of Southampton’s finest musicians who have taken on the joyous task of meticulously recreating the Fleetwood Mac live shows, from their glorious peak in the 1970s and 80s. Tickets available from website.

Big Trousers + Lugnut + Dahlia's Comet + Adders

Sound of the Sirens are a singersongwriting duo based in Exeter, Devon comprising of Abbe Martin & Hannah Wood. Honing their craft over the past decade. Tickets available from the website.

Billy Blagg

From the deep recesses of the internet: Big Trousers, the brand new two-piece bringing their genredefining post-post-punk sound to the (sc)rolling masses. Tickets available from the website.

Blank Atlas + The Colour Blind Monks + Silverline + White Noise Machine

Lavene has long been populating a hallucinogenic world of his own creation with ne’er do wells, ragamuffins and eccentrics. Tickets available from the website.

Marquee Square Heroes

Dedicated to delivering the excitement, power and spectacle of the early years of Marillion! Tickets available from the website.

The

Devout (Depeche Mode tribute)

Le Cod Afrique, at events such as Montreux Jazz Festival and WOMAD. For tickets visit: https:// wegottickets.com/event/631656

Gabriel Moreno

Wednesday 13 November

Doors 7.30pm for 8pm

Gabriel Moreno is Gibraltarian singer-songwriter, currently based in London. An irresistibly engaging performer, he combines a latin exuberance and passion with a rare lyrical calibre. For tickets visit: https://wegottickets.com/ event/633851

Findlay Napier

Wednesday 13 November

Fast becoming the world’s number one Depeche Mode tribute act, The Devout have brought the Depeche Mode experience to another level.

The Blues Jam - 10 Years On

Paying homage to Britain's finest political troubadour, Billy Blagg performs an authentic solo set of the sociopolitical anthems and searing ballads. Tickets available from the website.

Scott Lavene

The Wild Swans + First Association Blues + Haze + The Alresford Blues Band + Steenwood MacGallager + the jam spot - 6pm - 10th Anniversary Blues Bash! Celebrate a decade of jams at The Saint James Tavern! Enjoy epic music while supporting the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. Let’s rock and give back! St James Tavern website: stjamestavernwinchester.co.uk

TwoManTing was formed all those years ago when Sierra Leonean percussionist Jah-man Aggrey, and guitarist Jon Lewis were playing together as part of dance band, Saturday

A born storyteller, through his records and his writing Scott

Two Man Ting

Doors 7.30pm for 8pm

From the main stage of Cambridge Folk Festival with folk rock supergroup The Magpie Arc to an intimate acoustic show in the back room of a pub, Findlay Napier is widely regarded as one of the finest performers on the UK music scene. For tickets visit: https://wegottickets. com/liveatthehyde

Jon Wilks

Thursday 28 November

From 8pm

Lauded by Folk Radio (KLOF) as ‘a rather special performer with an authentic and abiding love of traditional song’, Jon is a prominent fingerpicking guitarist and singer who performs traditional English folk songs. For tickets visit: https:// wegottickets.com/event/631653

9 The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

Viennese Christmas Spectacular by Candlelight By London Concertante - 7.30pm - London Concertante performs Viennese Waltzes by candlelight in the atmospheric setting of Winchester Cathedral. For tickets visit: https://www.winchestercathedral.org.uk/event/londonconcertante-viennese-waltzes-bycandlelight/

Please note additional events may be happening in these venues, please refer to the relevant website for more information.

3 St Paul's Hill, Winchester SO22 5AE www.railwayinn.pub

Two in one garage door conversion specialist

FROM THIS TO THIS IN ONE DAY

Skandoor has led the way in manufacturing and installing garage doors in Hampshire and the south for many years. Our speciality is high-quality garage and front doors, on-time delivery and full ownership from start to finish.

A well respected long established family run business based in Bishop's Waltham

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Theatre, Shows & Concerts

Chesil Street, Winchester, SO23 0HU www.chesiltheatre.org.uk

Respectability is such a good place to hide. A series of random assaults in the darkened back streets of Victorian London are spreading fear and panic. Meanwhile, the friends of a highly respected doctor are beginning to wonder why he goes missing on exactly the same nights… For tickets visit: https:// www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/ winchester/chesil-theatre/jekyll-andhyde/e-ylaagm

Mappae Mundi: A talk by Dr Carolin Esser-Miles

observer to use them as mnemonic device or two break down complex thought.

Zoe Fitchet: Contemplation

Through a variety of mediums, Zoe Fitchet celebrates the vast diversity of wild species, capturing their essence and spirit in fine detail. From majestic elephants to delicate butterflies, each piece invites contemplation of the wonder and fragility of the animal kingdom.

Paint Your Own Pet Portrait on Canvas for Ages 7+

Pom Pom Hedgehogs & Wild Hedgehog Care for Ages 7+

We are offering a range of afterschool animal and conservation themed crafty workshops for all children to enjoy, meet new friends, learn something new and take home a creation of their very own. For tickets visit: https:// www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=1050001

Nell Bryden

Audience favourite Nell Bryden is back with a new and deeply personal album: “I Love You So Much I’m Blind.” Putting a raw spin on her American blues and soul roots, Nell’s latest tour-de-force shows off her gorgeously rich and emotional voice. For tickets visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=841401

Alter Eagles

cic/the-nutshell-comedy-club/202411-08/20:00/t-xmjmrkg

Winchester Print Fair

Winchester Print Fair is back for a Christmas edition. This is THE place to find unique gifts and cards, or a present for yourself!

The Nutshell Jazz Club:

Mike de Sousa

Medieval world maps were not just about representing geographical information. They recorded histories, both factual and mythological, biology including ordinary creatures and the monsters of the south and east, and there they allowed the

Our current exhibition, The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards. Inspired by the exhibition, we are offering a range of after-school animal and conservation themed crafty workshops for all children to enjoy, meet new friends, learn something new and take home a creation of their very own. For tickets visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org. uk/booking?id=1049801

Connor Selby

Jauthentic Eagles tribute band. Formed in 2003, they perform the whole repertoire of Eagles tracks, from tasteful country rock - complete with full harmoniesthrough to hard rocking numbers, showcasing the Eagles' trademark duelling electric guitars. For tickets visit: https://www.arcwinchester. org.uk/booking?id=902001

The Nutshell Comedy Club

Guitarist Mike De Souza leads his quintet Rick Simpson (piano/ synth), Tom Barford (tenor sax), Huw V Williams (bass), and Jay Davis (drums), on a tour celebrating his latest album Chrysalis (Fresh Sound New Talent). For tickets visit: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ the-nutshell-arts-cic/the-nutshelljazz-club/e-jbqboe

Legs Eleven: Burlesque Bingo Show

Get ready for the tease of your life as burlesque meets bingo in an evening of glamour, giggles and guaranteed, gorgeous surprises. Expect liberation, laughter and a little bit of luck as we fling off more than just our inhibitions. For tickets visit: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ the-nutshell-arts-cic/legs-elevenburlesque-bingo-show/2024-1129/20:00/t-pqaqkdp

A Winter's Tail

11.30am & 2pm

Led by Sidney & Tristan from The Last Baguette, A Winter’s Tail is a fun, relaxed play-along theatre adventure. Expect to play, move, watch and laugh. The show lasts 1 hour including a stay and play session, and is created for ages 2+ and their grown-ups. Younger and older siblings welcome! https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/the-nutshell-artscic/a-winters-tail/e-gblxpm Sat

Connor Selby is a rising British star in the traditions of Eric Clapton and Peter Green, who has already performed with his band at Wembley Stadium, at the age of 22, at the behest of The Who. For tickets visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=909001

Come and join us and host Paul McCaffrey, grab a drink at the bar, pre-order some grub and settle in for a night of BIG laughs as we feature some of the UK's best comedians. Tickets from: https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/the-nutshell-arts-

Jekyll and Hyde

Innovative and fun online programme resumes in the Winchester/Alresford area after October half-term to provide girls with valuable tools for their toolboxes - for ‘living their best lives’!

What will your daughter receive?

• Time for herself, to feel good – or betterabout herself

• Permission to just be herself; she is welcome as she is

• A variety of topics - each week builds on the next

Getting the Very Best Healthcare for You

This month, I’ve been taking my campaign for better health services for Winchester to parliament. I challenged the Health Secretary to deal with the lack of funding for mental health services left to us by the previous Conservative government, and to acknowledge the huge cost savings we can make if proper treatment is provided to children and those in social care when they need it.

I’ve also been listening to healthcare workers across the constituency. I was deeply moved speaking to the staff at Winchester Hospice who work so hard to support people, often in heartbreaking circumstances. I spent time visiting community pharmacies and will use my voice to fight for a fair deal from government and ensure pharmacists can stay open for the people of the villages and towns relying on them.

I know some of you still have to travel for miles and miles to reach your nearest pharmacy and I’ll be fighting for you too.

• The experience of being with a small, same age group of girls

• Fun, interactive notebook to add to - if she wants to – and then keep

• Diverse ways to participate – her camera can be off

• Support and ‘soft touch’ indirect guidance with a qualified Girls’ Net Mentor

• First week ‘taster’ session so she can decide whether it is right for her

Girls tell us that Girls’ Net has given them down-to-earth tools to support them with their emotions; helped them feel better and more confident about who they are; that they’ve really enjoyed connecting with other girls in a warm and welcoming, nonjudgemental same-age group online: every girl says she would recommend Girls’ Net to others!

Local Girls’ Net Mentor, Tracy Spring is delighted to be offering Girls’ Net

mentoring via Zoom again, along with an opportunity for parents to ‘Meet the Mentor’ online before the course begins.

There are two fully funded places worth £95 now available thanks to the kind support of Soroptimists International: Winchester!

For more information and/or to sign up, visit: www.ritesforgirls.com or contact Tracy directly: girlsnet.mentor.tracy@gmail.com or call 07957 128790 - she would love to hear from you!

Everyone deserves access to the treatments they need, no matter where they live.

As a trustee of a mental health charity it was a great honour to be appointed as mental health spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats. I’ll be taking what I’ve learned over my career and fighting in parliament to ensure mental health is taken as seriously as physical health.

Local waste tips have also been under threat this month, so I was proud to join protesters demanding Hampshire County Council stop their plans to shut half the county’s tips down; and, we won! The tips were saved, for now. I’ll be keeping an eye on the situation to ensure vital recycling services stay for good.

Some of you have contacted me about the ongoing travesty of sewage being dumped in our rivers by Southern Water. Having recently walked the Itchen river alongside

local experts, It’s incredibly clear to me that Southern Water must get their act together. They need to put our precious rivers and streams ahead of profits and stop dumping sewage once and for all.

It was no surprise to see that Southern Water have been fined a record of nearly £40million by Ofwat for their continued failure. That’s why I joined with my Liberal Democrat colleagues calling on the government to ban bonuses for water bosses until they clean up their mess. I refuse to stand by and allow them to get away with it for another year.

I will always do my best to speak up for you and the issues that matter to you. If there is anything I can help with, please contact me at: danny@dannychambers.org.uk

Girls Net Mentor - Tracy Spring

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Telephone:

Email: sales@town-and-country.co.uk

www.town-and-country.co.uk

At Town and Country, we take pride in ensuring every client receives the best customer service, from the informative and knowledgeable sales process through to the extensive after sales care.

Our boutique showroom showcases some of the finest kitchen and bathroom furniture available, with a strong emphasis on UK and European manufacturing. Bathroom manufacturers on display include Ambiance Bain, Kudos, Roper Rhodes, Tissino and Arte Form, with Porcelanosa and Ca’Pietra tiling throughout the showroom. Our kitchens are expertly crafted by Schuller, one of the largest German kitchen manufacturers, and Mackintosh, their products are made exclusively in Britain. Both have an extensive and inspiring collection ranging from the contemporary to the more traditional.

Please contact us regarding our complementary design and quotation service, we look forward to hearing from you.

Visit Town & Country

8 The High Street, Botley, Southampton, Hampshire, SO3O 2EA

Telephone: 01489 536187

Email: sales@town-and-country.co.uk www.town-and-country.co.uk

Warming Beef & Pumpkin Stew

INGREDIENTS

2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, chopped

4 garlic cloves, crushed

1 ½ cups ½-inch cubed pumpkin

3 large white potatoes, peeled, cubed

3 large carrots, sliced

2 cups beef or vegetable broth

1 (15-ounce) can chopped tomatoes

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon of hot paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Worcestershire Sauce to taste

*available from Hampshire Farmers’ Markets

METHOD

The secret to beef stew is just that – letting it stew. The longer you let it simmer, the more tender the beef becomes. Begin by cutting the beef into 1-inch chunks, then dredging them in flour until they’re evenly coated. This step helps thicken the stew and adds a delightful texture to the meat.

In a large pan (or Dutch oven) over medium-high heat, melt the butter. In small batches, brown the floured beef chunks on all sides. As each batch is browned, set it aside in a large bowl to make room for the next.

This browning process is essential for developing rich, savory flavors in the stew.

It’s time to create the aromatic base with all the beef browned. Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic to the pot and sauté for about a minute.

While doing so, be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits left behind from browning the beef. This step infuses the stew with aromatic richness and depth.

Return the browned beef to the pot and add the vegetable or beef stock (or broth), pumpkin cubes, vegetables, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, sugar and paprika. Stir everything together thoroughly to create a harmonious mixture.

Simmer, a cook on a low heat for 45 mins. Serve with fresh buttered bread.

NOVEMBER HAMPSHIRE FARMERS MARKETS

Alresford - Saturday 2nd, Petersfield - Sunday 3rd, Romsey - Sunday 3rd, Alton - Saturday 9th, Winchester - Sunday 10th, Emsworth - Saturday 16th, Southsea - Sunday 17th, Winchester - Sunday 24th, Ringwood - Saturday 30th

For more information visit: www.hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk

COMMUNITY

Winchester Round Table

Bonfire & Fireworks Display

Winchester Bonfire and Fireworks has been run by volunteers who have given up their free time to stage the event since 1958. All profits are donated to selected charities in the city and district. When you buy a ticket, you’re supporting amazing good causes.

Winchester Round Table is a charity and social group for men aged 18-45 in the city. We’re part of the international Round Table movement where members can participate actively in their community. As well as Bonfire and Fireworks, we stage the annual summer Pedal Paddle Pace triathlon and the famous Santa Sleigh at Christmas.

The Torchlit procession is from 6pm (starting from Broadway) and the Bonfire will be lit at approximately 7.15pm, followed by the Fireworks at approximately 7.45pm on Saturday 9 November. Buy your tickets at www.winchesterbonfire.co.uk

The display will be held at North Walls Recreation Ground, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 8DJ there will be limited parking near the display and nearby roads will be closed. For details on the easiest routes to and from the display, parking and event advice visit: https:// winchesterbonfire.co.uk/event-advice/

Best Parking

These car parks will remain open and are less likely to be affected by road closures and congestion before and after the event. Tower Street Multi-Storey (10 mins walk) Chesil Street Multi-Storey (13 mins walk) Winchester Railway Station (10 mins walk) Cattle Market and Worthy Lane (4 mins walk) Gladstone Street (10 mins walk).

Park & Ride car parks are also available and a great way to avoid driving into the city, but Park & Ride bus services do not run after the end of the display.

The Winchester Beacon is Seeking volunteer trustees Citizens Advice Winchester District project shortlisted for national award

Would you like the opportunity to have a real impact on the lives of people experiencing homelessness in the Winchester area? We are looking for forward thinking and business minded individuals who can support The Winchester Beacon during an exciting time in our development.

We are seeking volunteers with a knowledge of governance, marketing, income generation, property management, HR, strategic development and/or business planning to join our board of trustees. We are also looking for volunteers with a legal background or experience with GDPR and data management.

We are keen to hear from applicants drawn from a diverse range of backgrounds, to take The Winchester Beacon forward in times of financial hardship and increasing need for our services. We welcome applications from those with lived experience and also direct experience of Board level governance and from candidates with the relevant skills and expertise to undertake the role effectively. We welcome applications from those who have an interest in, and understanding of the trends, issues, and environment regarding homelessness, and who are eligible to act as a charity trustee.

If you share our passion and commitment and have the skills, knowledge and experience to support excellent governance and oversight of our charity please get in touch.

For more information and details of how to apply, please visit: https://reachvolunteering. org.uk/opp/trustee-needed-assist-vitalwork-small-homelessness-charity-0?

A project run by Citizens Advice Winchester District, in partnership with the Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, has been shortlisted for an NHS Parliamentary Award.

The Citizens Advice Southern Health Project which provides one-to-one advice and support to people who are in mental health crisis has been shortlisted for an Excellence in Mental Health Care Award.

Debt and money worries, insecure housing or other stresses such as a dealing with benefits, can have a profound impact on a person’s mental health and can significantly hinder someone’s recovery.

The Citizens Advice project offers advice and support to in-patients at Melbury Lodge (Adult Acute Mental Health Hospital in Winchester) to help them with their advice needs – with the aim of increasing their chances of recovery and best prepare them for moving on from hospital.

Ling Salter,

Mental Health and Advice

Caseworker at Citizens Advice Winchester District who has been leading the project since it started in April 2022 says: “I’m so thrilled that this project has been shortlisted for an award. I’m immensely proud to be involved in the delivery of such a forwardthinking project and see first-hand the enormous difference our advice can make in aiding someone’s mental health recovery.”

A panel of national judges will now come together to select the winners of this year’s awards, with an awards ceremony taking place on Monday 14 October 2024.

Find out more here: https://www. southernhealth.nhs.uk/about-us/newsand-views/shortlisted-national-nhsparliamentary-awards

LET OR SELL YOUR HOME, WITH CHARTERS

In Winchester, the demand for homes remains strong, with buyers showing renewed determination this autumn. This presents a fantastic opportunity for those looking to let or sell their home.

We take a proactive approach to connect with serious buyers, utilising advanced systems to match their needs with your home’s unique features. This targeted strategy not only enhances your chances of a successful sale but also ensures your property reaches the right audience.

Having a passionate and experienced estate agent by your side is essential in today’s dynamic market. As a multi-award-winning lettings and estate agency, we have the expertise and commitment to support your home-moving goals.

We would love to discuss how we can assist you. Please reach out to our team at 01962 830880

WHY I CHOSE CHARTERS

“I chose Charters for selling the property due to my previous experience when purchasing. On this sale, staff have been friendly, professional and acted promptly. Everything to date has been carried as stated, right down to a phone call every Wednesday providing us with an update. The sale has been quick and easy to date and would not hesitate on recommending Charters, lovely friendly professional staff”

Call us today for your FREE market appraisal Lettings: 01962 830881 | Sales: 01962 830880 | Winchester@chartersestateagents.co.uk Winchesterlettings@chartersestateagents.co.uk Christine, Trustpilot.com

Gary Brown Lettings Manager

Mark Dryhurst Associate Valuation Director

Paul Stephens Associate Valuation Director

Oliver Purvis Associate Director

Amy Steele Associate Valuation Director

We Are Selling... Are You?

a v e a g r e e

h a v e r e d e f i n e d t h e e s t a t e a g e n t e x p e r i e n c e f o r b o t h t h e b u y e r s & s e l l e r s w e h a v e w o r k e d w i t h

O u r e t h o s i s t o t a i l o r o u r s e r v i c e t o o u r c l i e n t s ' i n d i v i d u a l n e e d s , w h i c h i s n e v e r o n e s i z e f i t s a l l

G l o w i n g t e s t i m o n i a l s h a v e p r o v e n t h i s t o b e a w e l c o m e a n d r e f r e s h i n g a p p r o a c h !

I f y o u a r e t h i n k i n g o f s e l l i n g y o u r h o m e i n 2 0 2 4 a n d w a n t a g r e a t e x p e r i e n c e w i t h l e s s s t r e s s , w e a r e h e r e f o r y o u .

C o n t a c t e i t h e r S a m o r m y s e l f f o r a n o - o b l i g a t i o n

c h a t , a n d w e ' l l d o e v e r y t h i n g w e c a n t o m a k e

s u r e y o u a r e w e l l l o o k e d a f t e r !

Just a few of the houses we have sold so far in 2024

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“ A f t e r g o i n g t h r o u g h t h e p r o c e s s o f s e l l i n g a n d b u y i n g s i m u l t a n e o u s l y , I r e a l i s e d h o w e x c e p t i o n a l t h i s d u o i s ! A l w a y s d i r e c t , n o a i r s a n d g r a c e s , p u r e p r o f e s s i o n a l i s m A l w a y s o n e p o i n t o f c o n t a c t “ N o n y ” W h a t e v e r t i m e o f d a y N e v e r s u g a r c o a t s a n d a m a s s i v e s u p p o r t t h r o u g h a n a i l - b i t i n g p r o c e s s I w o u l d h i g h l y r e c o m m e n d N o n y t o a n y o n e l o o k i n g t o s e l l t h e i r p r o p e r t y ! T h a n k y o u ! ”

“ N o n y e n g a g e s d e e p l y w i t h a l l p a r t i e s i n v o l v e d t o m a k e t h e d i f f i c u l t a n d f r a u g h t p r o c e s s o f b u y i n g a n d s e l l i n g a p r o p e r t y m u c h e a s i e r H e r k n o w l e d g e o f t h e W i n c h e s t e r p r o p e r t y m a r k e t , a n d h e r w a r m b u t r e a l i s t i c a p p r o a c h t o g e t t i n g a s a l e d o n e , s e t s h e r a p a r t f r o m m a n y o f h e r p e e r s N