WINCHESTER 18_JUNE

Life in your City Winchester

FORUM

Editor

Mark Tubb editor@forumpublications.co.uk

Director

Steve Walker stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

Advertising Manager

Mandy Head mandyhead@forumpublications.co.uk Accounts accounts@forumpublications.co.uk

June Events

Winchester Cheese & Chilli Festival

Sat 7 and Sun 8 June

Sat 10am - 6pm, Sun until 5pm

River Park Recreation Ground, 53 Nuns Rd, Winch, SO23 7EF

We’re thrilled to share that the fantastic Cheese and Chilli Festival is coming back to Winchester for the 10th time in 2025! Join us at the North Walls Recreation Ground (River Park, right behind the old River Park Leisure Centre) for another unforgettable celebration!For more information visit:www. https:// cheeseandchillifestival.com

Winchester Craft and Gift Market

Sunday 8 June

From 10.30am to 4.30pm

Guildhall, The Broadway, Winchester, SO23 9GH

Back for 2025 by popular demand. Winchester Guildhall is an impressive Gothic revival style building completed in 1871. It boasts a wealth of stylish features and gothic indulgences. We are using the King Charles Hall, a magnificent hall with beams and original features which will provide the perfect backdrop to one of our stylish Mynt Image Craft and Gift Markets.

University of Winchester Undergraduate Open Afternoon

Tuesday 10 June

From 12 noon to 6pm

University of Winchester Sparkford Road, Winchester. Hampshire. SO22 4NR

Our Undergraduate Open Afternoon is a great way to get a feel for life in Winchester and see for yourself why people love it here. You can take a tour of our beautiful campus and meet staff and students on the courses you are interested in. You can also find out about how to become a student here and ask any questions you have about finances, scholarships or the support on

offer to enhance your learning and welfare. During the event, you will have the opportunity to: Attend a Welcome Talk from our Executive Leadership Team. Meet and Greet with academics from your course. Speak to current students or staff from our Student Support and Success, Admissions and Housing, Student Recruitment Teams.

Thursday Afternoon

Crafts: An intro to The World of Watercolours

Thursday 12 June

From 2pm to 4.30pm

The ARC, Jewry Street, Winchester, SO23 8SB

This relaxed, beginner-friendly workshop is perfect for anyone looking to explore watercolour painting. Learn basic techniques, experiment with colour blending, and create your own beautiful artwork in a supportive setting. With all materials provided, you can simply turn up, get creative, and enjoy the process. It’s a great way to unwind, try something new, and meet like-minded people. Tickets: £16/£13 concession. To book visit: https:// www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=1295801

A Ludovico Einaudi

Candlelight Experience In Winchester

Saturday 14 June

7-8pm and 9-10pm

The Hospital of St Cross, St Cross Back Street, Winchester, SO23 9SD

Musical Theme: A Classical Ludovico Einaudi Tribute - Seating is first come first served. To book tickets visit: https://www.lumosexperiences.com/events/

Retro Wheels and Rails Watercress Line, Alresford Celebrating the changes of road,

Sat 14 to Sun 15 June

From 10.30am to 4.30pm

The Watercress Line, The Railway Station, Station Road, New Alresford, SO24 9JG

rail, music and more through the '40s to the '70s! Join us for a journey through the decades as you travel through the Hampshire countryside. All Change! As you step off the train at each station you will be stepping back in time, with each station celebrating a different decade. Alresford: 1960s, Ropley: 1940s + vehicles, Medstead & Four Marks: 1950s, Alton: 1970s. Enjoy period music, vehicles, activities and more, around the railway over the weekend. Vintage attire is welcome but optional.

Good Festival

Saturday 15 June

From 10am to 4pm

Dummer Down Farm, Dummer, Basingstoke, RG25 2AR

Good times, Good living, Good causes. For full information see our advert on page 22.

Walks

With Artists

Friday 20 June

From 5pm

Meet Old Winchester Hill, Warnford, Petersfield, GU32 1HN

Old Winchester Hill National Nature Reserve Car Park. 5 miles Walk. Bringing the new “Every Step of The Way” art exhibition at Winchester’s Arc Gallery to life, some of the exhibiting artists will be accompanying a series of free South Downs walks, organised and led by Winchester Ramblers. Along the way the artists will talk about their work and the inspirations for their contributions to the exhibition, while we enjoy some iconic South Downs views along “The Way”. To book a free place on a walk (listed as “Special Events”), or buy tickets for the exhibition

visit: https://www.arcwinchester. org.uk/booking?id=1241601

Winchester Walking Weekend

Fri 20 to Sun 22 June

10am Fri to 2.30pm Sun

For locations visit: www. winchesterwalkingweekend. org.uk

Winchester Ramblers, supported by Winchester City Council, are offering 17 FREE walks over the 3 days, Friday 20 June to Sunday 22 June 2025. The walks range from 3 to 10 miles long and will explore the historic city, a nature reserve and beautiful surrounding river valley and downs. Please note that booking for these walks must be made by visiting WinchesterWalkingWeekend.org. uk rather than by contacting the walk leader directly. https://www. winchesterwalkingweekend.org.uk

The Garden Festival

Sat 21 to Sun 29 June

Various Times

Various Locations (see page 20)

In June 2025 an exciting, new festival is planned for Hampshire. This big, new event called ‘The Garden Festival’ will take place in Winchester as well as across its wider districts and will involve hundreds of organisations, businesses and communities from our region. For more information see page 20 of this magazine which shows a full line up of all events for the week.

Barn Dance & Hog Roast in aid of Home-Start Winchester

Saturday 28 June

From 7pm

The Meon Hall, Pound Lane, Meonstoke SO32 3NP

With the Craigievar Ceilidh Band. Tickets £35 include hog roast, home-made salads & puds www.ticketsource.co.uk/homestart-winchester-districts or email chrissie.barlow@homestartwinchester.org.uk Event kindly sponsored by Bill Rawles Classic Cars.

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Bespoke Kitchens & Interiors

Bespoke sizing - Media walls, boot rooms, custom offices, installed by ex-shipwright joiners with exceptional attention to detail

Happy Kitchens have a unique approach when it comes to kitchens and custom spaces in the home. We use excellent quality materials which are fitted by exshipwright joiners, who used to fit the woodwork on Super Yachts. That in itself is unique in our industry but then add in the fact that we are bespoke, but don’t charge the inflated prices that your highend high street showrooms do, gives us the recipe for your perfect home solution. This is why we are one of the highest rated home improvement companies on HOUZZ, beating all the top names you might recognise when walking down your high street.

We have never had less than a 5 star

review and have won the HOUZZ Best of Service award every year since it has been running. The staff at HOUZZ reference us to other companies as to how customer service should be done. Many of our customers have used us 2 or 3 times due to moving house or tackling other projects in their existing houses.

We do not have a template for design and take a fresh approach with every customer. It is important to take all the best ideas a customer has, then bring in the experience we have to offer, and often our ideas will be completely different to any other companies as we are innovative and bespoke. We often hear that customers have had designs and quotes that all look the same, are boring and

• Change as much or as little as you'd like

• Free no obligation quotation

• Free design service for new projects

unexciting, yet expensive. This is because most high street ‘kitchen designers’ are just salespeople with no idea on how a kitchen works.

So whether you need an amazing Kitchen, Utility, Bedroom, Coffee Bar with custom pod storage, Office, Media Wall or Living Room storage we can help. The design visits are free of charge, and we can quote on the same day. Also Ben loves design, so often at no extra charge, he will help you choose paint colours,

One of the top reviewed companies on Houzz, offering free home design visits

light fittings, Bar stools, artwork and can even recommend great pots and pans.

Our customers will often use us again, and recommend us to Family and Friends. The quote from the review above was from a customer who has chosen us twice, and their parents also have a

Happy Kitchens are quite unique as we are able to offer top quality products, available in any size, fitted by the best professionals in the business. Change your kitchen and bedroom with a makeover or design and install a new kitchen and bedroom, whichever suits your needs or price range.

• Change as much or as little as you'd like

• Free no obligation quotation

• Free design service for new projects

Happy Kitchen, and two of the parents' friends.

The biggest compliment we get from our customers is always around our attention to detail and often bringing something completely different to the table. If you are still unsure after reading this, go and read some of our reviews on our Happy Kitchens Houzz profile, and do a search of kitchen companies on there by review rating, we are always close to the top of the list.

Out-of-the-box thinking, bespoke design features, and friendly staff with excellent attention to detail are just a few of the reasons you should call us today. If that isn’t enough please do remember that the design visit is free of charge, so you have nothing to lose.

8 year winner of the Best of Houzz award and one of the highest reviewed kitchen companies on Houzz in the UK

Park Road –

£1,500,000 Freehold

A hugely impressive and spacious Victorian residence offering over 3600 square feet of versatile accommodation, including one-bedroom annexe. Wonderfully generous proportions throughout, with 7 bedrooms and 7 reception spaces. A viewing is essential to appreciate this unique home.

EPC: D Council Tax: G

Shawford – £1,350,000 Freehold

A simply immaculate and marvellously presented home. Situated on a private gated plot just over a third of an acre, Ashburn offers over 2700 square feet of versatile accommodation, including three reception spaces, master suite with ensuite and walk-in-wardrobe, two further bedrooms and a beautifully tended wrap-around garden.

EPC: D Council Tax: G

& LETTINGS AGENTS

Littleton – £2,000,000 Freehold

This impressive home and its glorious grounds offer quite the succession of wow moments. Situated on one of the largest residential plots in Littleton (1.1 acres), Applemead is an immaculate and homely property, with four bedrooms, three reception rooms, roof terrace, social barn, swimming pool and hot tub and a spectacular garden.

Freehold

Winchester tourism industry receives boost thanks to national accreditation

Winchester district is part of a newly-formed Hampshire, Portsmouth and Southampton Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), which just received accreditation by Visit England. This new LVEP paves the way for a strategic approach for developing and growing the visitor economy across the Solent and Hampshire geographies, aligned to the Isle of Wight LVEP, which was accredited in July 2023.

It puts Winchester at the national table with 40 other LVEPs across the country, to collaborate on activity that supports the visitor economy across the whole region, bid for new funding and share

A Taste of Winchester

Winchester will celebrate its vibrant culinary scene again as A Taste of Winchester returns for a delicious fortnight of food and drink. Running from 23 June to 6 July 2025, the expanded festival builds on the success of last year’s event.

A Taste of Winchester offers an exciting opportunity to experience the very best of the city and district’s local talent. Restaurants, cafés, pubs, retailers, producers, and makers will come together to present

a diverse array of events, tastings, special menus, and local and global flavours.

a wealth of information and resources with local businesses.

Winchester's growing tourism sector already supports 5,760 jobs and attracts 8 million visitors each year, making it one of the district’s major industries.

The LVEP will be delivered by Winchester City Council, Hampshire County Council, Southampton City Council and Portsmouth City Council, working with other Hampshire local authorities and key stakeholders, with Tourism South East taking the strategic lead.

Councillor Martin Tod, Leader of Winchester City Council, said:

“We'reproudofwhatwehavetoofferherein Winchester. Visitorstoourcity,ourmarket towns,ourcountrysideandtheattractionsacross ourdistrictbringinmillionsofpounds,support thousandsofjobsanddrivegrowthinourlocal communities.Andtheyalsohaveagreattime!

“Butwe'realsostrongertogether.I'mdelightedthat theLVEPisjoiningusupwithour neighbours inPortsmouth,Southamptonandtherestof Hampshire.Together,wehaveafantasticofferto peopleintherestofthecountryandaroundthe world.”

During this foodie fortnight, you can introduce your tastebuds to something new, learn about the provenance of what's on your plate, see behind the scenes in some of our well-loved bars and restaurants, or even forage for new local flavours for your own cooking.

Winchester businesses are being encouraged to create unique and memorable experiences that reflect the best of the city's hospitality. This year's celebration also coincides with other major local events, including the Winchester Garden Festival, Beer & Cider Festival, and Hat Fair, creating a perfect moment to highlight Winchester as a thriving food destination. Stay tuned for the full programme!

Keep an eye on the website at www.atasteof winchester.co.uk for full details of this event. It will offer an exciting opportunity to experience the very best of the city and district’s local talent. Restaurants, cafés, pubs, retailers, producers, and makers are coming together to present diverse events, tastings, special menus, and local and global flavours.

To take part in 'A taste of Winchester,' please visit: https://atasteofwinchester.co.uk/take-part/

For enquiries about hosting an event for A Taste of Winchester and media enquiries please contact miranda@rocketlaunch.co.uk

The district’s official destination brand, Visit Winchester will continue to support Winchester businesses with domestic and international marketing campaigns. The national LVEP programme is developed and administered by VisitEngland to create a portfolio of highperforming partnerships working locally, regionally and nationally on shared priorities and targets to grow of the national visitor sector.

Visit England Director, Andrew Stokes, added: “TheLocalVisitorEconomyPartnership(LVEP) programmeistransformingthevisitoreconomy landscapeinEngland,supportingitsgrowthina moreinclusive,accessibleandregenerativeway, andIamdelightedtowelcometheHampshire, PortsmouthandSouthamptonLVEP.”

“Workingtogether,theLVEPsaresimplifyingour tourismlandscape,ensuringEnglandcontinues tobeacompellingdestinationforbothdomestic andinternationalvisitors. AsHampshire, PortsmouthandSouthamptonisestablishedasan LVEP,VisitEnglandwillprovideongoingsupport, includingadedicatedregionallead”.

The LVEP partnership will start work on a regionwide Destination Management Plan and Growth strategy, outlining the foundations, sustainable direction, opportunities and work plans.

Winchester Cheese & Chilli Festival

This annual event, held in the stunning surroundings of Winchester, promises to tantalise your taste buds and elevate your love for cheese and chilli to new heights. Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or a spice enthusiast, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant festival. Celebrate the best of local and artisanal cheeses, featuring a remarkable range of flavours and textures from top producers. Sample everything from creamy bries to tangy cheddars and discover unique pairings that showcase the versatility of cheese. But that’s not all! The festival also spotlights an array of chillies, from mild to fiery, perfect for those who crave that extra kick. Enjoy gourmet food stalls offering innovative dishes that fuse cheese and chilli in delightful ways — think mouth-watering chilli cheese fries, spicy cheese toasties, and so much more! Don't miss the chance to participate in interactive workshops where you can learn the secrets of cheese making and chilli cooking from experts in the field. With live music, entertainment, and fun activities for the whole family, the Winchester Cheese and Chilli Festival is a celebration of flavour that you won’t want to miss. Bring your friends and family to indulge in delectable tastings, shop for unique food products, and make lasting memories together.

From 7th - 8th June - See advert on page 21

Visit Winchester Team

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

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PLEASE CONTACT US ON Visit our website:-

Theatre, Shows & Concerts

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

Blues, Latin, Soul & Funk. Graduated from The School of Musical Technologies, ETM Geneva, Switzerland. Performed in various Venues, Bands and Festivals around the World - Ronnie Scott's, Jazz Cafe, Southbank Centre, Hackney Empire, Union Chapel, Pizza Express, RichMix, LoveSupreme Festival, London Jazz Festival, Womad Festival. To book visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=1314601

Scott Bennett: Blood Sugar Baby

Will Shakespeare – in trouble, in debt, and in love. What could go wrong? The muse has deserted struggling playwright Will Shakespeare. His new play Romeo and Ethel, the Pirate’s Daughter is going nowhere… until the beautiful Viola appears and everything changes. But she is promised to a powerful nobleman. Will risks the wrath of Queen Elizabeth herself. Chaos and comedy ensue. But after all, ‘the course of true love never did run smooth’! For tickets visit: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ whats-on/winchester/chesil-theatre/ shakespeare-in-love/e-eqbabx

Jewry Street, Winchester, SO23 8SB www.arcwinchester.org.uk

One family, one condition, one hell of a hairy baby… Scott Bennett (from Live at the Apollo and The News Quiz) tells the amazing true story of how his daughter fell ill with a rare genetic condition, congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI). Never heard of it? Neither had Scott and Jemma. For tickets visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=1117001

The Scribes

The Scribes are a multi-award winning hip hop act from Bristol whose unique talents have combined to make a trademark sound quite unlike any other, featuring a seamless blend of live instrumentation and sampling set against a backdrop of head nodding boom bap breaks. For tickets visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=1283401

Thomas Heppell Band

From the vibrant South Coast of the UK to iconic venues across the nation, join Thomas Heppell as he crafts the next chapter in the blues narrative. With a style encapsulating the heart of Blues, the energy of Rock & Roll, and the sophistication of Jazz, Thomas can command a solo stage or drive the rhythm in his dynamic threepiece ensemble. For tickets visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=1327601

Mark Thomas in

Ordinary Decent Criminal

sensory play, it is an invitation to see beauty in the smallest things and to let plants be our guides. Celebrate the gift of nature and help to conjure a world out of breath, water, sunlight and soil in this magical musical adventure for 0 – 2 year olds. To book visit: https://www.ticketsource. co.uk/the-nutshell-arts-cic/you-arethe-sun/e-gyqgal

The Twits: Plays for Children

Set in the years following the Strangeways Prison Riot, meet recovering addict Frankie, played by renowned political comedian Mark Thomas as he enters the brave new world of a liberal prison experiment. For tickets visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=1301601

Acoustic Cafe - Stone Branches + Lost Post + Waiting For Alfie

Emerging from Southampton’s music scene, Stone Branches have quietly refined a sound that feels both intimate and expansive, carving out a space that’s entirely their own. For tickets visit: https:// www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=1343401

You Are The Sun

From 7.30pm

HurlyBurly Theatre presents 'You are the Sun', a folk inspired opera for babies and grown ups that explores the magic of nature. Combining the joy of gentle classical singing and

The only joy the Twits get is from doing the dirty on each other, playing grotesque tricks including mixing worms into spaghetti, throwing frogs into the other’s bed, and lengthen their chair legs to make it appear as though one has shrunk. In fact, the Twits are so ghastly and evil that they even keep Muggle-Wump the monkey and his family captive in their garden. For tickets: https:// www.ticketsource.co.uk/thenutshell-arts-cic/the-twits-plays-forchildren/e-oejpgx

The Nutshell Jazz Club: Nick Costley-White

From 1pm to 5.30pm Thursday 19 June

From 8pm to 10pm

Nick Costley-White is one of the most in-demand jazz guitarists in the UK. Renowned for a deep understanding of the jazz tradition, he combines his virtuoso technique with a uniquely distinctive style of improvisation. For tickets visit: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/thenutshell-arts-cic/the-nutshell-jazzclub/2025-06-19/20:00/t-lnjnqmq

Beauty and the Beast JR.

Sat 21 to Sun 29 June

Sat 21 (10.30am) 29 at (4.30pm)

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR. is a fantastic adaptation of the story of acceptance, redemption and true love. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR. features some of the most popular songs ever written including Be Our Guest, Gaston and, of course, the title song Beauty and the Beast. For tickets visit: https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/the-nutshell-artscic/beauty-and-the-beast-jr/e-lklzbo

Shakespeare in Love

Acoustic Cafe: Freddy Saxo + Kevin Walker + Alice Milburn (Jazz)

Freddy Saxo is a Swiss born Saxophonist at home with Jazz,

How to protect your family’s financial future

Protecting your family from financial difficulties isn’t just about having money to provide for the long term. It’s also about ensuring your loved ones are provided for should the worst happen.

When it comes to financial protection, the options can seem overwhelming. However, consulting a financial adviser can help you choose the right cover for your personal circumstances.

Life insurance

Life insurance pays out a lump sum on death, which could be used to pay off the mortgage and provide a cash buffer. The cost of the cover will depend on factors like your age and health.

If you have children or an outstanding mortgage, you should consider a life insurance policy. There are several different types of policy to choose from: whole of life insurance, level term insurance, and decreasing term insurance. An adviser can help you decide on the right one for you.

Income protection

Income protection can provide a tax-free income if you are unable to work because of an accident or illness.

You can choose when the payments start, such as six or 12 months, with longer deferral periods resulting in lower premiums.

Income protection can be particularly valuable for the selfemployed who do not have any cover through an employer.

You can choose from short-term cover to pay an income over one or two years and long-term cover to run until retirement, or when the policy ends, whichever is sooner.

Critical illness

Critical illness cover pays out a lump sum on diagnosis of critical illnesses covered by the policy, such as heart attack, stroke and cancer. The sum could be used to pay off debts, cover outgoings such as school fees, or to adapt living arrangements.

You might want to consider this cover if you don’t have enough savings to cover you if you were to become seriously ill, or you don’t have an employee benefits package.

Family income benefit

Instead of paying out a single lump sum, this policy provides a regular, tax-free income for a set period, such as 20 years. It’s considered a relatively inexpensive form of life cover.

Private medical insurance

Private medical insurance (PMI) will pay for the cost of private healthcare and could enable you to see a specialist more quickly than under the NHS. If you don’t have PMI through work, you can pay monthly or annual premiums for a policy.

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

Joy Moir Wealth Manager Joy.Moir@brewin.co.uk

Chris Barry Wealth Manager chris.barry@brewin.co.uk

46 Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8RY

T: 01962 798000

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

The value of investments, and any income from them, can fall and you may get back less than you invested. This does not constitute tax or legal advice. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. You should always check the tax implications with an accountant or tax specialist. Investment values may increase or decrease as a result of currency fluctuations. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy.

Mr Mac - June News

The app “Too Good To Go” is designed to help reduce food waste by connecting consumers with businesses that have surplus food. The idea is that restaurants, cafés, bakeries, supermarkets, and other food retailers can list unsold food at a reduced price at the end of the day. Users can then purchase these items through the app and collect them during a specified time window. Key Features include the following, Surprise Bags, users typically buy a “Magic Bag” or “Surprise Bag” without knowing exactly what’s inside, it depends on what’s left over that day. Discounted Food, the food is heavily discounted (often up to 70% off), making it affordable while helping reduce waste. There are a wide Range of Partners including highstreet chains, independent stores, and supermarkets. You can download the app from Apple’s App store or the Google Play Store.

Apple TV + goes from strength to strength. This month sees the return of Ewan McGregor and Charlie Borman in The Long Way Home, a European road trip on their motor bikes. It is 20 years since their first adventure; A Long Way Round, followed by, A Long Way Down and A Long Way up. All series are available on Apple TV +. Just in is Your Friends & Neighbours with John Hamm, star of Mad Men, a great drama series. Watch out for a new series of Slow Horses due for release later this year. Give Netflix a rest for a few months and sign up with Apple for £8.99 per month.

Here's a handy tip for those of you that like to read your tablet in bed but like to keep your hands free. Search Amazon for tablet stand for bed, adjustable tablet holder with 360 degree rotating flexible arm, it costs £19.99 - a great buy!

Andy – Mr Mac - 07392 552 592

Theatre, Shows & Concerts

pub/shows/jot-sloppy-2025-06-20

Friday 6 June - 7.30pm

Oliver Beardmore

For tickets visit: https:// railwayinn.pub/shows/oliverbeardmore-2025-06-06

Saturday 7 June - 8pm

The Specialised (Specials Tribute)

For tickets visit: https://railwayinn. pub/shows/the-specialised-specialstribute-2025-06-07

Monday 9 June - 7.30pm

Roots Open Mic Nigh

For tickets visit: https:// railwayinn.pub/shows/rootsnight-2/2025-06-09

Saturday 14 June - 8pm

For tickets visit: https:// railwayinn.pub/shows/gazbrookfield-2025-06-14

Tuesday 17 June - 7pm

Read It and Weep book club

For tickets visit: https://railwayinn. pub/shows/read-it-and-weep-bookclub-2024-10-15/2025-06-17

Thursday 19 June - 7.30pm

Rob Wheeler and The Hushtones + Hughzy

For tickets visit: https://railwayinn. pub/shows/rob-wheeler-and-thehushtones-2025-06-19

Friday 20 June - 7.30pm

Jot Sloppy + OWES + rosewater + Owen Hackett

For tickets visit: https://railwayinn.

Saturday 21 June - 8pm

Popscene – Performing The Music of Blur

For tickets visit: https://railwayinn. pub/shows/popscene-blurtribute-2025-06-21

Wednesday 25 June - 7.30pm

The Railway Sessions - William Jack + Rob Clamp

For tickets visit: https://railwayinn. pub/shows/william-jack-2025-06-25

Friday 27 June - 8pm

Feel Love - Clubnight: Accidental Allies & DJ Perrell

For tickets visit: https:// railwayinn.pub/shows/feel-loveclubnight-2025-06-27

Saturday 28 June - 8pm

(Female Nirvana Tribute)

For tickets visit: https://railwayinn. pub/shows/nirvanher-femalenirvana-tribute-2025-06-28

57 Hyde Street, Winchester, SO23 7DY www.hydetavern.co.uk

Steve Turner

Thursday 12 June

From 8pm

Steve Turner is known as a pioneer of highly sophisticated English concertina song accompaniments, stretching the boundaries of traditional forms, with one of the best voices in the business. For tickets

visit: https://wegottickets.com/ event/647236

Dom Pipkin - Piano from London, Soul from New Orleans

Thursday 19 June

From 8pm

Alongside a glittering session career (David Byrne, Ray Davies, Morcheeba), piano player and songwriter Dom Pipkin has been described by Blues in Britain as “one of the world’s greatest exponents of New Orleans piano”. For tickets visit: https://wegottickets.com/ event/652678

Ruth Theodore & Giulia Millanta

Thursday 26 June

From 8pm

Since signing an exciting new record deal with Ani DiFranco’s Righteous Babe Records, Theodore has been performing solo around the USA in celebration of her fifth studio album, which received consistent five-star reviews in highly respected music press publications. For tickets visit: https://wegottickets.com/ event/658281

Organ Concert by James McVinnie

Saturday 14 June

From 7.30pm

James McVinnie is an English an organist and keyboard player. His boundless approach to music making has carved out a unique and impressive career. Book now for your chance to experience his talents in the beautiful surroundings of Winchester Cathedral, where James will play the historic great “Father Willis” organ which was installed in 1854. For tickets visit: https://www. winchester-cathedral.org.uk/event/ organ-concert-by-james-mcvinnie/

The Fulltone Orchestra: The Golden Age of Hollywood Featuring unforgettable music from some of the most beloved

Saturday 21 June

From 7.30pm

films in cinema history, promising a night full of nostalgia and great musical hits from an era that shaped the film world of the 20s to 60s.

For tickets visit: https://www. winchester-cathedral.org.uk/event/ the-fulltone-orchestra-the-goldenage-of-hollywood/

The Pump House

Garnier Road,

Friday 20 June

From 7pm to 10pm

An unforgettable night as Nick Ferretti performs at The Pump House, Winchester! All profits go directly to Trinity Winchester, a charity that looks after those experiencing homelessness and domestic abuse in the local area. For tickets visit: https://www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/nick-ferrettilive-at-the-pump-house-tickets1334980766409?aff=oddtdtcreator

The March Hare

63 Priors Dean Road, Winchester, Hampshire, SO22 6JN

Community Garden Festival Day

Saturday 21 June

From 11am

A day of fun, creativity and community spirit. Local stalls, a sizzling BBQ, creative workshops, face painting, a seed swap, live music and more. For more information visit: https://www.facebook.com/ events/1798446584347400

Nirvanher

Gaz Brookfield

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

Nick Ferretti Live at The Pump House

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

Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 90G

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I’m changing the law to stop animal abuse and illegal pet smuggling - Dr Danny

Chambers MP

As a vet, I’ve seen the heartbreaking consequences of ear cropping and tail docking up close. Dogs left in pain, scarred for life, both physically and emotionally. These brutal procedures are often carried out by unscrupulous breeders chasing a particular “look” — one that makes dogs appear more aggressive. But behind that image is a sentient creature who has suffered needlessly. These aren’t medical treatments, they’re mutilations. In a compassionate modern society, there is absolutely no justification for inflicting this kind of cruelty.

While these practices are already illegal to perform in the UK, it is still legal to import dogs who have already had these procedures performed. The big problem is that this leaves a giant loophole. It incentivises the abuse to be carried out abroad and sold into the UK, and it allows abusers here in Britain to get away with performing the illegal procedures and then claiming the dogs were imported, making it very difficult for law enforcement to crack down on the abuse.

When I became an MP, one of my goals was to make use of my veterinary expertise and do everything I could to stop this practice in the UK and protect animals from further harm.

I’ve been working hard to gain cross-party support in Westminster to back my Animal Welfare Bill that will shut down this import loophole. With the backing of lots of animal welfare organisations like the RSPCA, the Dogs Trust, and the British Veterinary Association, the Bill successfully sailed through its 1st and 2nd votes in the Commons, enjoying wide support from my Liberal Democrat colleagues, as well as from many members of other parties. It has now been scrutinised by a committee of MPs from all the major parties to ensure the new law is as effective as possible and will proceed to a final vote soon.

Too many animals have been suffering at the hands of criminal abusers for far too long. This law will have a bigger impact on animal welfare than I could ever have hoped to achieve had I remained in veterinary practice treating individual animals. That we’re finally on the cusp of cracking down on this once and for all shows what a difference we can make when we fight for change.

OPENING TIMES: MON - SAT | 10 - 5

TEL: 01962 734504 WWW.HANDMADERUGS.CO.UK

Laboratory Grown Diamonds

‘See The World in Our Windows’ Emeralds from Colombia, Brazil & Zambia

Laboratory Grown Diamonds

D. Barker & Son Ltd

D. Barker & Son Ltd

D. Barker & Son Ltd

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

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

D. Barker & Son Ltd

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

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

The Garden Festival 2025

Opening Event - Swedish ‘Midsommar’ Celebration

Friday 20th June from 6pm – 9pm Abbey Gardens, Winchester. Join us for a unique Swedish-style midsummer celebration. Bring flowers, butterflies or bugs you have made to help decorate our Swedish maypole, wear floral garlands in your hair, enjoy fun Swedish songs performed by primary school choirs, and sing along to Shantyhead our sea shanty band. Bring a picnic + chairs or rugs. Free tickets from Eventbrite: bit. ly/4d81dPO

Contemporary Sculpture Trail & Art Gallery Summer Show

Sat 21st – Sun 29th June from 11am – 5pm Atherton Green Art Gallery & Garden, Upper Farringdon, nr Alton, GU34 3EH

An exhibition of contemporary art, including painting, sculpture and ceramics with an outdoor sculpture trail. Set in the large, impressive house and gardens of a former Victorian rectory. Free admission. www.athertongallery.art

Talk: Art and the Garden with Michael Joseph Sat 21st June from 2 - 3.30pm

Atherton Green Art Gallery, Upper Farringdon, nr Alton, GU34 3EH

Gardening seen through the eyes of an artist. The talk covers discussion of sculpture, structures, form and design, and which colours to put where, etc.

The audience will learn and understand why they like something and why it works. Tickets £16 from Eventbrite: bit.ly/4jXBufW

Sculpture in the Garden

Sat 21st – Sun 29th June from 2pm - 5pm Quaker Meeting House Garden, 16 Colebrook Street, Winchester, SO23 9LH

Come and admire the work of 10+ members of the Wessex Sculptors set in this delightful, walled garden. Free entry www.wessexsculptors.co.uk

Mini-Community Garden Festival

Sat 21st June from 10am

The March Hare Pub, Prior’s Dean Road, Harestock, Winchester, SO22 6JN

Stalls, hot and cold food, games, workshops, flower making, music, etc. FFI see Instagram: @ themarchharewinchester - Free entry.

Gardens, Landscapes & Horticulture in Art

Exhibition

Sat 21st – Fri 27th June from 10am – 5pm (late night Mon 23rd until 7pm)

Milner Hall, St Peter’s Street, Winchester, SO23 8RY

Admire the work of 16 talented local painters, glass makers, textile artists and others selling their work in this little-known renovated church. Access via Jewry Street or St Peter Street. Free entry.

Art in the Garden

Sat 21st & Sun 22nd June from 11am – 5pm 36 Fordington Avenue, Winchester, SO22 5AW

Two days of all kinds of events at this venue with over 20 artists, poets, dancers and performers taking part including acclaimed local artist and lecturer, Stephen Cooper displaying a huge sculpture in the front garden. Free entry. www.stephen-cooper.net

Pirates of Penzance with Opera Anywhere Sat 21st June from 7pm – 9.15pm Hospital of St. Cross, Winchester, SO23 9SD

A special light-hearted performance of this well-loved opera set in front of a lake in the glorious Master’s Garden. Bring a party, your gazebo, tables, chairs and a picnic. Prize for most florally decorated gazebo. Tickets from Eventbrite: bit.ly/43orNRz or OperaAnywhere.com

The Beardy Gardener Garden Gathering Sat 21st June from 10am – 5pm Garden for Mind, Longstock Park Nursery, Longstock, SO20 6EH

Well-known names from the gardening world come together for a full day of activities with special guests BBC Garden Rescue’s Chris Hull, Gardener & Content Creator Amy Chapman, plus Broadcaster & Author Ellen Mary. For more details & tickets: www. beardygardener.com

A Growing Plot Sun 22nd, Mon 23rd, Thu 26th, Fri 27th, Sun 29th June from 11am – 3pm Cattle Market Car Park, Worthy Lane, Winchester, SO23 7AB

An exhibition of art works, sculptures and paintings based on soil, plants, trees, and the microbiome by the artist Andrew Carnie in his studio, The Light Factory. Free admission. www.andrewcarnie.co.uk

Winchester’s Biggest Garden, St Giles Hill Park. Past, Present and Future - Walking Tour Mon 23rd June, Wed 25th June from 10.30 –11.45am

A walking tour of St Giles Hill Park, a beautiful, panoramic area of Winchester with wonderful views over the city centre. Led by Dr Harry Mycock of St Giles Hill Park. For more details & tickets go to Eventbrite.

‘Glory of the Garden’ outdoor theatre Mon 23rd June from 7pm – 9pm With Play GC Theatre Company, Winchester Royal Hotel Garden, St Peter Street, Winchester. SO23 8BS. A glorious anthology of poetry, prose and songs on the theme of gardens and the gardeners who tend them. From Gertrude Jekyll to Pam Ayres, An English Country Garden to The Secret Garden, this is a flowerbed full of delights. Tickets from Eventbrite: bit. ly/4jDQ1wW

Wildflower Meadows - Talk with Michael & Jane Joseph Tues 24th June from 2 - 3pm The Winchester Royal Hotel, St. Peter Street, Winchester.

Learn the importance of wildflower meadows to your organic vegetables, to your health, to wildlife and to the planet. Michael (conservationist) and Jane (conservationist and ecologist) will show you how to create one. Tickets £16 from Eventbrite: bit.ly/4dfnyuX www.athertongreen.art

Midsummer Musical Soirée

Wed 25th June from 6.30pm - 9.30pm

The Deane House & Garden Sparsholt, SO21 2LR Enjoy a relaxed evening of jazz, poetry, readings and classical music, while wandering around the beautiful, vast, landscaped garden of The Deane House. Bring a picnic, play croquet, garden chess and savour botanical cocktails while enjoying a high summer evening in this exceptional setting. Tickets £20 from Eventbrite: bit. ly/4kupfY7

Guided Nature Connection with Sonya Dibbin

Wed 25th June from 12.15pm - 1.15pm

Quaker Meeting House, 16 Colebrook Street, Winchester, SO23 9LH

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature with our one-hour guided Nature Connection experience. Tickets: £10 from Eventbrite. www. adoreyouroutdoors.co.uk

Lainston House Kitchen Garden Tour

Wed 25th June from 11am Woodman Lane, Sparsholt, SO21 2LT

A 40 minute tour with the kitchen gardener, Stef, who’ll share the incredible details of keeping fresh fruit, veg and herbs flowing from the garden to our plates all year round. Includes sit-down tea/coffee. Tickets: £5 from Lainston House 01962 776 088

The Romantic Thread in British Art Talk with Tim Craven of The Arborealists Thurs 26th June from 7pm City Mill, Winchester, SO23 9BH

Tim will consider how and why British artists are

innately drawn to a romantic sensibility, what that might be, and how this trait has consistently re-emerged throughout art history. Tickets from Eventbrite: bit.ly/3EZZXSr £10 to include a glass of wine.

An Evening Garden Opening with Andover Ladies Choir Fri 27th June from 5pm - 8pm Longstock Water Garden, Stockbridge, SO20 6EH As the day fades, our historic, private water garden will welcome guests into its stunning landscapes while Andover Ladies Choir will serenade us (for part of the evening). Tickets from Eventbrite. £10 adults, £5 children (5-16), free for under 5s.

Winchester’s Many & Varied Gardens

Walk with Dr. Harry Mycock around St Giles Hill Fri 27th June from 10.30am - 12noon

A walking tour led by local historian and noted horticulturist, Dr Harry Mycock, includes of ten of the many public gardens from the largest to the smallest in the Winchester. Tickets are free but please reserve a place on Eventbrite.

Day of community events in Hyde, Winchester Sat 28th June from 10am onwards

An array of events in the district of Hyde embracing the inauguration of the Medieaval Herb Garden, St.Bartholomew’s Church, tours of Hyde, environmental group activities, a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party and an early evening barbecue with music. www.hyde900.org.uk or www.threesaints.org.uk Free admission.

Picnic Concert by The Lake Sat 28th June from 7pm to 10pm Church Paddock Fishery, Winchester, SO23 7JQ

In the beautiful setting of Church Paddock Fishery; bring your chairs, tables and a picnic whilst enjoying an evening of informal music. Food & floral cocktails will be available on the night. Tickets from Eventbrite. £5 Adults, £10 Children, £100 (Group of 8 adults). No children under the age of 10.

Garden & Green Fair

Sun 29th June from 10am - 3pm Broad Street, Alresford

Join us to celebrate local growers, producers, and craftspeople. Discover repair opportunities and community initiatives. www.newleafalresford.org/ garden-green-fair/ Free entry

Sunday Supper Club in the Market Garden at Hampshire Pantry

Sun 29th June from 7.30pm Badger Farm Road, Winchester. SO23 9RZ

Come and have supper sitting in the middle of a market garden which has produced the vegetables on your plate! With magnificent views and delicious food and drinks, this is an exciting new, fabulous community event. Tickets from Hampshire Pantry www.hampshirepantry.co.uk

Beach Garden & Gallery - Visit The Colour Factory Artists' Studios & Gallery Sat 28th & Sun 29th June from 10am - 4pm The Colour Factory, The Lodge, Gordon Road, Winchester, SO23 7DD

Discover this little hidden gem, its beautiful beach garden and garden classroom. Paintings and jewellery on display by 5 professional resident artists. Free admission. www.thecolourfactory.org.uk

Art in the Front Garden

Sun 29th June from 11am - 4pm

69 Hyde Street, Winchester, SO23 7DW

Drop-in art workshops throughout the day in the lovely Front Garden of local artist, Michele Gudino’s house. All levels are welcome. No ticket needed.

www.garden-festival.co.uk

Enquiries: 07716 864 138

Sponsored by Incuhive

Cinema nights throughout August

Grab a blanket, gather your friends, and settle in for an evening of movie magic in the truly stunning setting of Lainston House. Our open-air cinema nights offer the perfect summer escape. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic classic like Pride and Prejudice, a feel-good favourite such as Bridesmaids, or a musical you can’t help but sing along to - think Mamma Mia, Grease, or Moulin Rouge, we’ve got something for everyone. From unforgettable love stories like A Star is Born to timeless favourites like Dirty Dancing, each screening promises a night to remember under the stars.

Movie £20 per person

Movie, pizza and ice cream £35 per person

01962 776088 lainstonhouse@exclusive.co.uk exclusive.co.uk/lainston-house

Join the Hampshire wine fun at Fizz Fest 2025

The annual Vineyards of Hampshire (VoH) Fizz Fest is back for its eleventh year, taking place at the Raimes Wine Barn and Vineyard, Hinton Ampner, nr Alresford. This year, Food & Drink Expert, Writer and Broadcaster Andy Clarke will open the festival and will also host a sparkling cocktail masterclass during the afternoon.

The VoH flagship event is a must-attend, featuring eight premier vineyards that will showcase over 20 premium sparkling and still wines. Attendees will have the opportunity to taste the wines from Black Chalk, Danebury Vineyards, Exton Park, The Grange, Hambledon, Hattingley Louis Pommery England and Raimes in a large marquee in the beautiful outdoor setting next to Raimes' new wine barn. In addition to tastings, guests can learn more about the remarkable wines while enjoying local street food, live music and DJ Jake Burgess, masterclasses, and vineyard tours throughout the day.

Fizz Fest 2025 will also coincide with English Wine Week (21st-29th June) – the perfect way to celebrate the Vineyards of Hampshire members, who range from small, family-owned to large vineyards with exceptional wine tourism venues.

Ahead of the event, Michael Mackenzie, Chairman said: “Vineyards of

Hampshire does a great job of showcasing quality still and sparkling wines to local, regional, and international audiences, and Fizz Fest is a celebrated fixture in the summer calendar. We are delighted that the event will, once again, coincide with English Wine Week this year.”

Hosting Fizz Fest in 2025, family owned and run Raimes has a reputation of producing exceptional English sparkling wine. The elegance of Raimes English Sparkling begins on the south-facing slopes of the Hampshire vineyard, where the chalk substratum is shared with that of the best vineyards in Champagne. Raimes English Sparkling is blended from Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay, made in the traditional method using only grapes grown by the Raimes family.

Vineyards of Hampshire Fizz Fest is sponsored and supported by Paris Smith, Harwoods Group (Chichester), NFU Winchester and Wickham, Martin & Co and Hampshire Fare. Fizz Fest is intended as an 18+ event, therefore there are no children's tickets available. If you do need to bring any under 18s they must be accompanied by an adult at all times. The tasting tent is strictly for adults only. Small well-behaved dogs on a short lead are welcome.

The Vinyards of Hampshire Fizz Fest will be held at Raimes Wine Barn, Hinton Ampner, Nr Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0JY on Sunday 29th June, 12pm to 4.30pm.

BOOKING:

Tickets for this year’s VoH Fizz Fest are available from www.vineyardsofhampshire.co.uk

Tickets: £35 pp including booking fee

Masterclasses: £20 including booking fee (with General Admission ticket) Vineyard tours: £12 including booking fee (with General Admission ticket)

SUNDAY 15 JUNE

DUMMER DOWN FARM HAMPSHIRE

10.00AM - 4.00PM | FREE PARKING AVAILABLE

HELP A GOOD CAUSE

Good Festival supports The Hampshire Medical Fund Charity to purchase cutting-edge medical equipment for our local NHS hospitals.

To donate now, please text HMFGF10 (£10) or HMFGF20 (£20)

FIZZ FEST 2025

29TH JUNE 2025 | 12PM - 4.30PM

RAIMES WINE BARN, BROAD LANE, HINTON AMPNER, ALRESFORD, HAMPSHIRE, SO24 0JY

TASTINGSMARQUEE

Vineyards of Hampshire Fizz Fest will return showcasing Hampshire’s premier vineyards this time at the Raimes Wine Barn and Vineyard, for their 11th iconic flagship event.

A chance to taste over 20 wines and sample new vintages, talk to the people at the heart of the vineyards, enjoy local street food, live music, new masterclasses, vineyard tours, fizz bar & wine shop.

Visit vineyardsofhampshire.co.uk to find out more.

Celebrating Curiosity and Scholarship

The Jill Isaac Festival at St Swithun’s

St Swithun’s School was honoured to welcome the Mayor of Winchester to our annual Jill Isaac Festival of Scholarship - a celebration of academic curiosity, creativity and independent learning. This event provides students the opportunity to present projects they’ve pursued beyond the classroom, and it is a testament to the ambition and imagination thriving within our school community.

Amongst this year’s exceptional sixth form contributions were a team of three sixthformers who took part in the Davidson Inventors challenge, a competition focused on finding chemical engineering solutions to global problems. They developed an inhaler that combats the effects of smoking by breaking down tar into non-toxic byproducts. and went on to pitch their idea to business leaders as one of seven finalists in the international Micro Tyco competition. Student Tolu D commented, “We hope one day our idea could have a great impact on the health sector and wider world”.

Several of our sixth-formers visit care homes weekly to sing songs and play games with

residents. Jessica W delved into researching music therapy for dementia, presenting on its benefits for cognitive stimulation. And economics student Camilla R founded The Swithun’s Times, a student-led newspaper designed to make economic and political issues accessible for students.

Senior school students have also been pursuing exciting projects, including a completely self-taught GCSE in Astronomy (Ella P), participation in the University of Southampton Junior Maths Challenge (Lower 4 student Arabella W) and several fascinating critical essays on topics ranging from The Suffragettes to Charles I.

Prep school students confidently presented to the older audience on WWII family history, including stories from relatives who were female code breakers and POW’s. “This has been a great project for me as it made me thankful for all the sacrifices my family and their generation made”, said Marylise.

The mayor commented that the students’ drive to learn was “very impressive”, and reminded them that “there is no limit to education. Fulfilment in life often comes to those who continue to learn.”

The festival reflects our school’s wider vision: a world where young women see

possibilities, not boundaries. Through independent projects and academic enrichment, we empower our students to ask bold questions, pursue their passions and challenge conventional thinking.

Headmistress of the Senior School, Jane Gandee, remarked: "It’s a wonderful reminder of what young people can achieve when they are encouraged to go beyond the curriculum and follow their intellectual instincts."

Liz Norris, Head of our Prep School, commented: "It was a proud moment seeing our year 5s present alongside senior and sixth form students. They showed great courage and intelligence, more than holding their own in the company of their older peers.”

St Swithun’s School Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1HA T: 01962 835700 www.stswithuns.com

SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN DAY

Saturday 21 June, 9am

St Swithun’s is a world-class boarding and day independent school for girls aged 11-18. Our vision is a world where young women see possibilities not barriers. Join our open day to discover more.

EARLY YEARS ACTIVITY AFTERNOON

Friday 13 June, 1.30-3.15pm

Join us for a fun-packed summer activity afternoon in our co-ed preschool and girls-only reception, with the opportunity to explore our beautiful indoor and outdoor learning spaces and meet our welcoming team.

Scan to find out more

Celebrating 90 Years of Ramblers

Winchester Ramblers are celebrating the 90th year of the Ramblers Association by inviting the public to join us for our free Winchester Walking Weekend from Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd June. 18 different walks will leave from outside Winchester Cathedral over the course of the weekend, along a variety of routes.

All walks will be led by an experienced Ramblers walk leader or City Guide, ranging from short leisurely walks around historic Winchester, to longer downland and riverside hikes that feature a stop to enjoy a “bring your own picnic” along the way. Like all Rambler walks, these weekend walks are open to all adults over the age of 16, and Ramblers encourage anyone who would like to explore some of what the local countryside around us has to offer to sign up for a free walk at WinchesterWalkingWeekend.org.uk

Members of the public are welcome to come along on up to 3 free walks with us before deciding whether or not to join Ramblers Association, a registered UK charity. Alongside our usual program of 5 different length walks every week of the year, Winchester Ramblers are also offering a series of “Walks with Artists”, some short “Summer Evening” walks, and Jane Austen themed walks as part of our 90 year celebration. Details of all of these can be found at WinchesterRamblers.org.uk

A Life of Care: Margaret’s Remarkable Journey as a Live-in Carer

Margaret has spent years as a live-in carer, transforming the lives of those she cares for with her kindness, expertise, and unwavering dedication. Recently, she shared her journey with us, caring for those within the heart of the Test Valley, offering a glimpse into the meaningful moments that make her role so fulfilling.

Margaret recalls her time with Vicky, a client living with Alzheimer’s and arthritis, as one of her most meaningful experiences. Through tailored nutrition and personalised care, Vicky’s condition improved so dramatically that she was able to return to her first love - writing poetry. “It felt like caring for the most precious person in the world,” Margaret says.

Another treasured memory comes from her five years with Bill, whose family still considers Margaret a close friend, years after his passing.

ALRESFORD PODIATRY

Providing Care since 1999

Welcome to Alresford Podiatry, where we are dedicated to providing the highest level of podiatric care to your feet. With over 25 years of experience in the private and NHS sectors, Owain Harris BSc (Hons) is committed to providing the most comfortable experience possible, which is why we offer home visits to care for your feet in the comfort of your own home. Trust him to help diagnose your condition and provide the best possible treatment for happy, healthy feet.

“These relationships stay with you,” she shares, “they’re built on love and trust.”

Margaret finds joy in the small daily momentssharing a meal, seeing a smile, or being warmly welcomed back after time away. “It’s those simple things that remind me why I do this,” she says.

Want to See How a Live-in Carer Can Support Your Loved One?

Access Care, proudly based in the heart of the Test Valley, specialises in matching experienced live-in carers - like Margaret - with clients who wish to remain in the comfort of their own homes and stay connected to their local community. Whether it's companionship, help with daily routines, or more specialised care, their dedicated team is here to support every step of the way.

Access Care - A trusted, family-run, local independent agency delivering bespoke, flexible, and discreet Live-in Care for over 30 years. Ideal for short-term convalescence or long-term support. Call 01264 319 399 or visit www.access-care.co.uk

It’s good to be home

We’re here so your loved one can stay at home, where things are familiar and they feel at ease. We’re here for you too, because when a loved one needs care, it can be a challenging time in your life as well.

Of course, it’s much more than that. They also get 1-to-1 support with everyday errands. Help with washing and feeding, someone to swap stories with, and a new friend who can help them see old friends. All this in a safe environment, with familiar routines, that can delay age-related illnesses such as early onset dementia.

You also get complete confidence that they are receiving premium support from a provider that’s proudly rated Outstanding by the CQC.

For outstanding-rated home care throughout Winchester, contact us today 01962 856 900 winchester@bluebirdcare.co.uk

It’s not just putting Mum at ease. It’s giving you peace of mind.

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Leanne Nichols

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Leanne Nichols (née Hawkins) is a Registered Nurse and Independent Nurse Prescriber (INP) with 15 years in the aesthetics industry and over 25,000 treatments performed. After a decade in the NHS, she founded the award-winning Face and Skin Clinic in Wickham and later opened her second clinic, Saddle House Medi-Spa, driven by her own skin journey.

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Marty Williams is a highly qualified Aesthetic Nurse specialising in regenerative treatments that enhance natural beauty and promote long-term skin health.

Lauren King

Lauren has been at Saddle House for three years, offering beauty and advanced skin treatments. Her favourites are Hydrafacials and Medical Microneedling. Aesthetic Therapist

Ellen Anderson

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Ellen is a retired Nurse and combines warmth, compassion and organisation to ensure that everything runs smoothly while making our patients feel valued.

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Karen has 30 years of experience and offers medical-grade facials and skin tag/blemish removals. She is passionate about guiding patients through their skin transformation journey

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See our website for full details.

Historic Winchestersymbols, Saxons and saints:

Winchester is rich in history, but how many residents know how it touches our lives today? For example, who knows why there is such a large stature of King Alfred, or why the Round Table sits in the Great Hall, or even why Swithun is the city’s patron saint?

King Alfred died in 899 and was revered by the Victorians who erected the statue in 1899 to celebrate his virtue as an inspirational leader. Alfred famously halted the Danish invasion of Wessex at the battle of Edington in 878, and subsequently led a law-abiding, Christian Wessex at a time when the country faced foreign invaders. Unlike other Saxon kings, Alfred retained a faithful scribe who recorded his achievements uncritically, so he is better known than other Saxons who did more for England like Athelstan or Edgar.

The Victorians saw in Alfred a symbol of imperial power that justified the superiority of the British Empire and its authority in the world. They saw Winchester as the original epicentre of this movement with Alfred as a symbol of triumph against adversity. The statue needs to be seen within the context of late Victorian sentimentality when Queen Victoria would have passed through Winchester on her way to Osborne House on the Isle of Wight. In one respect Alfred was adopted as a symbol to legitimise colonialism and Empire, rather than celebrate Wessex or the Saxons.

The Round table is also a symbol of legitimacy, created in the late thirteenth century by Edward I who was busy fighting the Scots and the Welsh at the time. By this time the legend of King Arthur and the knights of the round table was already well known, and the virtues of chivalry and honour well understood. Edward wanted to cement the legitimacy of his Plantagenet dynasty through its descent from the unimpeachable folklore of King Arthur. The round table symbolised the authority of the king in a way that no written document could ever achieve at the time.

We should also note that Henry VIII repainted the round table in the 1520s placing the Tudor rose in the centre in order to give legitimacy to his dynasty which had replaced the Plantagenets at Bosworth Field in 1485 after his father captured the throne from Richard III. The aim was to quell any lingering suspicion that the Tudors were usurpers. The round table was used as a visual device to demonstrate regal authority as the Great Hall was used as a law court. The Round table has always been a fabricated piece of theatre with a powerful message using folk memory to endorse power.

Saint Swithun was an early bishop of Winchester who died in 860 and was buried outside the Old Minster. Miracles were attributed to him after his death, for which the evidence appears flimsy or questionable, at a time when close scrutiny by the Vatican was rare. It was in 971 that he was made a saint when both King Edgar and Ethelwold bishop of Winchester badly needed a local shrine to attract more pilgrims to Winchester, and Swithun was a logical candidate. In these times a saint’s bones and relics brought pilgrims to your city but a saint’s shrine brought many more, a shrine signified a holy place and worthy pilgrimage destination. Pilgrims brought prestige and income.

Bishop Ethelwold and King Edgar were so keen that in 971 they managed to create two shrines in Winchester: Swithun for the New Minster and Edburga for the Nunnaminster – later to become St Mary’s abbey. In so doing by the end of the tenth century Winchester became the most significant collection of religious houses north of the Alps. When the Normans came and started the current cathedral they rejected many of the Saxon saints in favour of their own. Swithun was retained to give legitimacy to their cathedral because his had already become such a popular shrine it would be folly to remove it. St Swithun’s day is 15 July, folklore says that the weather then will hold for the next 40 days.

GarryHoneyistheauthorofthebookon SaxonqueensinWinchester:‘WessexWomen ofWinchester’whichisavailableatP&G Wells,TheCityMuseum,GreatHalland 878intheBrooksCentre.

byosteoarthritisisajointreplacement. Thisismajorinvasivesurgeryassociated withaprolongedrecoveryperiod. MrRishiChanaandMrVikasVedican offeranalternative,non-surgicaloption. Arthrosamid®–isasingle-doseinjectionhatdeliverslonglasting2,5 andproven reliefwithoutsurgery,improvingoflifeforpatientswithpermanentreduction

or cannot have surgery for medical reasons. Arthrosamid a good alternative with good long-term results accompanied by ease of use in an outpatient setting. Due to the fact that it can give long-term benefit, it is also indicated in younger patients with significant symptoms who do not require major surgery yet. Outcomes that I have seen in my own practice can truly be long lasting and life changing.”

(Mr Vikas Vedi)

DISCOVER ARTHROSAMID®

Now Available at Spire Southampton

WHATTHEEXPERTSSAY

Are you struggling with knee osteoarthritis? There's a groundbreaking, non-surgical treatment now available at Spire Southampton that is redefining treatment for patients living with knee pain.

Revolutionary Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. While joint replacement

References:

1. Arthrosamid®, Instructions For Use. Release Date March 2022. 10082-003.

2. Bliddal, H., et al. (2025) A Prospective Study of Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Injection for Knee Osteoarthritis: Results From 5 Years After Treatment. Presented at WCO-IOF-ESCEO 2025.

withknee permanentinjectable reductionmaintainainknee treatment.

3. Bliddal, H., et al. (2024) 3 year follow-up from a randomized controlled trial of intra-articular polyacrylamide hydrogel injection in subjects with knee osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage. Vol 32 (6): 770-771.

surgery is effective, it is also a major invasive procedure with a lengthy recovery period. But now, there's an alternative.

Introducing Arthrosamid®

Arthrosamid® is a non-biodegradable injectable polyacrylamide hydrogel (2.5% iPAAG) implant consisting of 2.5% cross-linked polyacrylamide and 97.5% water. It is administered via a simple, one-step procedure performed under local anaesthesia by a qualified physician, such as an orthopaedic surgeon or rheumatologist1 - ensuring you’re in and out of the clinic the same day.

“Itisimportant tobeabletoofferpatientsalloptionsfor managementofkneeosteoarthritisIbelievethatArthrosamidis agamechanger-itisindicatedforall gradesofseverityofosteoarthritis.Some patientsdonotwishtoconsidersurgery orcannothavesurgeryformedical reasons.Arthrosamidagoodalternative withgoodlong-termresultsaccompanied byeaseofuseinanoutpatientsetting. Duetothefactthatitcangivelong-term itisalsoindicatedinyounger significantsymptoms requiremajorsurgeryyet. seeninmyownlastingandlife

Arthrosamid® is proven to maintain a significant, long-lasting reduction in knee OA pain 2,3 — even five years posttreatment. 2

How does Arthrosamid® work?

Arthrosamid® is the first and only permanent injectable implant that integrates with the knee's synovial tissue,4 forming a scaffold that softens and increases tissue elasticity. This leads to decreased joint stiffness, reduced pain, and improved knee function.5,6,7

4. Christensen, L., et al. (2016). Histological Appearance of the Synovial Membrane after Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis with Polyacrylamide Gel Injections: A Case Report. Journal of Arthritis. Vol 5: 217.

5. Bliddal, H., et al. (2021) Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Injection for Knee Osteoarthritis: A 6 Months Prospective Study. J Orthop Res Ther. Vol 6 (2). 1188. ISSN 2575-8241.

6. Bliddal, H., et al. (2024). Polyacrylamide gel versus hyaluronic acid for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: a randomised controlled study. Clin Exp Rheumatol. Vol 42(9):1729-1735.

PROVEN RESULTS

• Over 20 years of research and development.9

• Safe and effective 6,8 for its intended use, even five years post-treatment.2

• Around 1,200,000 syringes of 2.5% iPAAG have been made for human use.9

What the expert(s) say?

We don’t wait for a failing kidney or liver to give out before intervening — and the same principle should apply to the knee. Arthrosamid is a non-surgical treatment that may help ease stiffness, bring pain back under control, and delay the need for joint replacement. For some patients, this can mean getting back to doing what they love.”

For more information on the treatment please visit www.arthrosamid.com

To book an appointment for Amir Qureshi call Kate 02380 914505 or 07300 837839 or email kate@aqortho.co.uk

7. Henriksen, M., et al. (2018). Intra-articular 2.5% polyacrylamide hydrogel for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: an observational proof-of-concept cohort study. Clin Exp Rheumatol. Vol 36(6):1082 - 85. E pub 2018 Jul 18. PMID: 30148430.

8. Bliddal, H., et al. (2024). Effectiveness and safety of polyacrylamide hydrogel injection for knee osteoarthritis: results from a 12-month follow up of an open-label study. J Orthop Surg Res. Vol 19: 274. 9. Data on file.

Treatments to rejuvenate and enhance your natural look

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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.

www.lifeshouldbebeautiful.co.uk Tel: 01329 832269

Midsummer

Midsummer. Fast approaching with longer, lighter evenings and early dawns, the wheel of the year turns and the sun nears its zenith.

Since Neolithic times many peoples have noted the longest day. Ancients built monuments that aligned to the sunrises and sunsets on the solstices that come but twice a year. A five-thousand-year-old temple in Malta is one. A Mayan pyramid, another. The pyramid at Giza aligns with the sun on midsummer, heralding the Nile flood and the New Year. The North and East sides are so illuminated by the light from the rising sun, it’s said that that the structure looks to split in two. Even in ancient China it held great significance since workers were given the day off. A bit of a crowd pleaser, that –powers-that-be take note.

Say “Solstice” and you think of Stonehenge; an iconic ring of stones in an ancient Wiltshire landscape bubbled with barrows. Its unmistakeable outline never fails to slow the traffic passing, as people are distracted by its unignorable presence. And get a freebie look. Those who wish to see the summer solstice sunrise behind the heel stone and creep into the heart of the circle: the druids, the pagans and the

folk connecting with their inner, prehistoric drumbeat - make the pilgrimage to the stones and wait through the shortest night. No chairs or alcoholic drinks are allowed, apparently. As ‘Flaming June’ often doesn’t live up to its moniker and the impressively exposed site is, well, impressively exposeddress warmly and be prepared to sit on the cold ground.

In Puerto Rico, midnight swims are the thing and there are the alliterative bonfires in Barcelona. Jumping over aforementioned bonfires too – sounds dangerous to me, but the highest jump predicts the height of the crops to come. What crops those might be, in these days of dwarf wheat for higher yields, I’m not certain. Although Austria and Norway are part of the bonfire brigade too, these are lit to keep the demons away because Midsummer is a time, like Halloween, when ‘tis said, the veils between our world and the world of magic are thinnest. Shakespeare knew. It’s a time that fairies and spirits are able to contact us mere mortals and in Iceland, it is said that elves appear. Scandinavians, ever stylish and crowned with flowers, dance the maypole and walk in the dew.

I will, as I always do, get up in the darkness before dawn and watch for the sun to appear

over the horizon. I probably won’t light a bonfire and upset the neighbours - and it’s unlikely I’ll make the pilgrimage to the sea for a chilly swim. One of these years I may brave the crowds (and cold) at the ring of stones and hope for a clear sunrise. I’ll wander amongst their lichened roughness, like the child I was before the fences went up.

But I will, for sure, walk barefoot in the garden, with the dew on my toes and half an eye out for Peaseblossom and Cobweb. I’ll sip hot chocolate as a nod to the Mayans, and think of pyramids bathed in light.

If you celebrate, however you celebrate and wherever you celebrate the summer solstice, remember this… imperceptibly, little by little, the days will get shorter from now on. Those cold, wet, dark afternoons, hastened by the loss of an hour in October (I do wish they’d bin that), are but a midsummer night’s dream away. We’ll be driving to work in the dark, driving home in the dark, with only the beacon of light and hope that is Christmas to guide us through the wintry weeks.

Until the wheel of the year turns and winter solstice brings the rebirth of the sun and the hope of those long, light evenings and early dawns once more.

Community Garden Grants

In 2011 the National Garden Scheme launched it’s Community Garden Grants - since then £1,202,360 has been donated to over 500 community projects.

The 2025 Grants have recently been announced and I am pleased to say that a total of £8,212 has been awarded to three projects within Hampshire - they are:- YMCA Southampton: Dementia Friendly Hampshire - based in Havant: The Healthy Haven Southampton. The total amount donated in 2025 to Community Projects was a staggering £294,260. This went to a total of 117 community garden projects across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

To help us raise funds for the Community Garden Grants and our annual Beneficiary Donations, all you have to do is simply visit an NGS garden - just one visit helps. Following are a couple of suggestions for the end of June and a group visit in July.

Mill House

Vyne Road, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, RG24 9HU

Opening: Thursday & Sunday 26th & 29th June from 2pm to 6pm. Pre-booking available.

Admission: £5.00 children free Cashless Payments available.

Refreshments: Home-made teas (in aid of Bramley Church + 10% to NGS)

https://findagarden.ngs.org. uk/garden/44679/mill-house

Planted on heavy clay, the gardens of Mill House are relatively young, but occupy an historic site. They surround a recently rebuilt watermill which generates domestic electricity. Rural in feel, despite

its proximity to Basingstoke, it features a number of differing zones. Tended solely by the owners, the structure and planting has been chosen to facilitate easy maintenance (by hand, powered machinery and sheep) to save time. Static and moving water provide interest and a haven for waterfowl, pied wagtails, swans and kingfishers.

Hambledon House

East Street, Hambledon PO7 4RX. Open: By Arrangement until September for Groups between 10 & 30 visitors. To arrange a visit and discuss requirements, contact the owners on: 02392 632380 or dianahartdyke@gmail.com https://findagarden.ngs.org.uk/garden/10818/hambledon-house

3 acre partly walled plantsman’s garden for all seasons. Large borders filled with a wide variety of unusual shrubs and perennials with imaginative plant combinations culminating in a profusion of colour in late summer. Hidden, secluded areas reveal surprise views of garden and village rooftops. A haven of peace, shared with birds, bees and butterflies, unseen or overlooked.

I highly recommend the‘Virtual Garden Visit’ - simply click on the link above and then click on Virtual Garden Visit. PB

Hopefully there is something above, which might peak your interest, and prompt you to visit one of our gardens, thus helping raise much needed funds for our National Garden Scheme charity.

Pat Beagley (Head of Publicity)

National Garden Scheme - Hampshire pat.beagley@ngs.org.uk

Robotic lawn mowing - is it the future?

Many of us are challenged with time. Work is busy and private lives are manic and finding time to cut the grass, and keep on top of it, is a challenge. Fuel costs have risen, and modern fuel doesn’t last long leading to potential fuel issues with engines.

Robotic mowing provides many benefits for managing lawns and green open spaces. Modern satellite guided machines use a network of satellites to find their location, and together with a fixed base station on land they now feature an accuracy of 1cm and so no longer need a wire in the ground

to guide the mower. Grass loves being cut little and often, and the mulching process provides valuable nutrients to improve the grass quality. Robotic mowers are designed to cut little and often and so there is no need to collect the grass.

Robotic mowers are lightweight and can therefore stay on the ground mowing long after conventional ride on and pedestrian machines can. They are powered by a lithium-ion rechargeable battery which is charged from a simple docking station so they are silent, with no emissions and some amazing features; oh, and they can now mow in straight lines!

A T H Machinery, based in Broughton, Stockbridge are specialist distributors of the KRESS robotic mowers and KRESS battery-powered gardening and landscaping tools for domestic, professional and commercial users, covering right across Winchester and surrounding villages, Test Valley Region and Hampshire. We have installed many machines locally for domestic and commercial clients; automating spaces from 100m2 up to 15000m² - and we can go even larger up to 36,000m² and beyond. With a competitive

pricing structure, comprehensive warranty, proven technology, service contracts, and a thorough installation service we have the experience to automate all manner of green spaces from 100m2 right up to 78000m2 the unique Kress system does not require a separate base station on your site, unlike all other makes, ensuring we offer a precise on site installation and future proof accurate mapping with the Kress RTKn mapping system. This ensures we an offer map variations for different seasons, daffodils, primroses and wild flowers The mowers are controlled from an easy-to-use App on a mobile phone or tablet and control features include varying the height of cut, changing schedules of mowing, night mowing, changing the direction of the straight lines, and many many more. Robotic mowers don’t have any fluids or belts, the only thing they need is a clean and a change of blades, and charging (which they do automatically!)

If you are interested in a robotic mower, or simply want to explore the opportunity please contact Tim Lane at A T H Machinery on 01794 501070 or 07818 104864 to discuss your project.

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Will butterfly populations "bounce back"?

Creating a wildlife haven in your garden could help

With lighter evenings and trees in full blossom, it's clear that spring has arrived - a perfect reminder to start getting your garden ready for Butterfly Conservation's Big Butterfly Count.

After the declaration of a Butterfly Emergency last year, it's more important than ever to create a wildlife-friendly garden.

The Big Butterfly Count, running from July 18 to August 10, invites everyone in the UK, from countryside dwellers to city residents, to participate in counting butterflies.

Research shows that 80% of butterflies have declined since the 1970s and the Big Butterfly Count is a quick and easy way for people to take action for their survival.

Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation, said: “Following last summer’s Big Butterfly Count results, which showed a significant decline in the number of butterflies participants observed, we need everyone to get involved this year.

“Will butterflies bounce back or will their populations continue to decline following a terrible year in 2024?

“Your counts will help to give us a clear picture and anything you can do to make your garden more butterfly-friendly increases the chances of butterflies surviving, and your chances of seeing them in your garden.”

Creating a garden that supports wildlife doesn’t have to mean a messy, overgrown space. By making mindful choices, you can create a beautiful garden, terrace or balcony, soak up some vitamin D, and make a positive impact on pollinators like butterflies and moths. Here are five simple ways to transform your garden into a wildlife haven:

1. Be a grower, not a mower

If you have a lawn consider letting some of it grow wild! Long grass provides a rich habitat for insects and allows some species of butterflies and moths to complete their lifecycle by providing a place to lay eggs and food for caterpillars. It can also allow nectarrich plants like clover, bluebells, and dandelions to bloom. If you’re not keen on an unmown lawn, consider a more structured approach. Try mowing a curvy path through an area of long grass or sow a mini wildflower meadow to help boost butterfly populations through a designated patch that allows wildlife to flourish. Simple changes can create a vibrant, wildlife-friendly space.

2. Make your garden a stepping stone for wildlife

Choose plants that attract wildlife and provide nectar and pollen for insects. Plants like buddleia, verbena, lavender, and marjoram provide nectar throughout the butterfly season. Colourful planted pots can look beautiful in patio gardens and on balconies as well as provide a resting place and sustenance for butterflies. With the right plants butterflies might even make your garden their permanent home!

3. Avoid pesticides and insecticides

While pesticides may target unwanted pests, they also harm beneficial insects like bees, ladybirds, and butterflies. Even “pollinatorfriendly” products can contain pesticides, which are toxic to insects. Organic methods such as companion planting are a great alternative. For example, planting basil near tomatoes repels aphids, while nasturtiums attract beneficial insects and deter pests. By carefully selecting plants, you can create a healthy, chemical-free ecosystem in your garden.

4.Deadhead flowers

By removing dead flowers, you encourage your plants to continue blooming, providing a longer food source for pollinators. Plants like buddleia, lavender, and cosmos benefit from regular deadheading and will keep your garden alive with butterflies through the summer. Plus, spending time outside not only helps nature but helps reduce stress, improve mood, and improve sleep quality!

5. Avoid peat-based composts

Peat bogs are critical habitats for many native species, including the Large Heath butterfly. The UK’s peat bogs have formed over thousands of years but they aren’t inexhaustible. Peat extraction is a major threat to these delicate ecosystems, so switching to peat-free composts - made from composted bark, coir, or wood fibre - can make a huge difference. If possible, consider making your own compost from vegetable scraps, grass clippings, and coffee grounds for an ecofriendly alternative.

With these simple, thoughtful actions, you can create a beautiful, butterfly-friendly garden that supports wildlife all year round. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these tips will help you contribute to the well-being of pollinators and enjoy the beauty of butterflies on your own doorstep.

Getting involved in the Big Butterfly Count really is as simple as 1, 2, 3 following the steps on Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count webpage at www.bigbutterflycount.org

1. Get ready with the free Big Butterfly Count app or by downloading our butterfly ID chart

2.Join in between July 18 and August 10

3. Add your counts via the website or app

8

Telephone: 01489 536187

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 complimentary design and quotation service, we look forward to hearing from you.

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Toadally awesome! Natterjacks bounce back in South Downs National Park

Their distinctive rasping call can be heard up to a mile away, earning them the reputation as the UK’s loudest amphibian.

Now the natterjack toad, long associated with British folklore, is making a remarkable comeback in the South Downs National Park after battling back from the brink.

Natterjacks were once widespread across the heaths of southern England, but habitat loss and climate change had reduced their range to a single site at Woolmer Forest in Hampshire. They are considered locally extinct in Sussex.

Toad spawn (Pic by Andy Reeves)

A reintroduction programme started at nearby Blackmoor in 2021 and the latest survey has recorded breeding natterjacks, with 28 toadlets counted. It’s the first time that natterjack toads have been recorded breeding at Blackmoor in 50 years and represents a significant increase in their territory.

The comeback has been made possible by nature recovery work at Blackmoor, led by the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) and supported by the South Downs National Park Authority, Natural England and partners. Over the past decade shallow ponds have been created and heathland has been restored through the introduction of cattle grazing, producing perfect conditions for natterjacks to return.

Jack Harper, from ARC, said: “We are delighted that everyone’s hard work is beginning to pay off and that the future of this fascinating species is looking brighter in the region. This is a great first step to recovering the species within the National Park and a good blueprint for future reintroduction efforts. Thank you to all those involved!”

Olivia French, Heathlands Project Team Leader for the South Downs National Park, said: “This is a wonderful success story for nature recovery and shows that wildlife can thrive if given half a chance.

“With a breeding population at Woolmer and now Blackmoor as well, the future for natterjack toads is certainly looking brighter than it was.

This area is the last heathland bastion for this iconic species and extending their habitat range is a big step forward in stopping the species becoming locally extinct.”

Over the past century 75 per cent of breeding sites for natterjack toads have disappeared in Great Britain. They are now almost exclusively confined to coastal sand dune systems and grazing marshes in north-west England and the Solway Firth in Scotland.

Olivia added: “They are one of the most at-risk species from climate change because of rising sea levels, so this makes the comeback in Hampshire all the more significant. It’s wonderful to share this good news for nature.”

So how can you help look after these rare and fascinating toads to ensure they continue to thrive? As the natterjack toad favours shallow, temporary ponds, they can only breed in large ‘puddles’. They have an extended breeding season and can spawn from April to August, so it’s important to keep your dog on a lead, and out of shallow ponds and puddles around Woolmer Forest and the perimeter track during these times. The spawn strings of the natterjack are fragile and easily damaged by dogs running through them.

Find out more about the work being done to help this rare toad at www.arc-trust.org/natterjacktoad. Find out more about the National Park’s heathland restoration work at www.southdowns. gov.uk/help-your-heaths/

• Natterjack toads are distinct for the yellow dorsal stripe and the impressive vocal sacks of the males. In spring, on warm, still nights, the adult male natterjacks gather round the breeding pools and emit a rasping call. The louder the call the more chance they have of attracting a female.

• This rare toad is smaller than the more widespread common toad. Adult Natterjack toads are generally between 45mm and 75mm. Roughly the size of a cricket ball!

• Natterjacks have specific conditions for breeding and hunting and require very shallow, warm ephemeral (which means temporary) pools for their spawn.

• They’re also known as the ‘running toad’, as they actively chase their prey so need to be able to travel at speed through very low growing vegetation.

• In the wild, it’s estimated natterjack toads can live up to 12 years.

• To find out about the National Park’s ReNature initiative and to donate visit southdowns.gov.uk/renature/

Enjoyed this story? Sign up to South Downs News – the monthly newsletter for the National Park – to get more like it delivered straight to your inbox by signing up at: www.southdowns.gov.uk/join-thenewsletter

The Natterjack toad (pic by Steph Horn)

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Hat Fair 2025

We’re thrilled to announce that Hat Fair – the UK’s longest running festival of Outdoor Arts – is back for another summer on Saturday 5 July 2025

A Brief History

Hat Fair is the UK’s longest running festival of outdoor arts. Founded in 1974 by Jonathan Kay, Hat Fair inspires and is inspired by the people, heritage and public spaces within the city of Winchester.

Our aim is to shine a light on the city, transforming the everyday into the extraordinary.

Initially conceived as a busking festival, Hat Fair takes its name from the tradition of the audience showing their appreciation by putting money in the hat at the end of the show.

These days most of the festival’s artists are paid a fee to perform for free to our audiences. However, we still uphold the hatting tradition by inviting a dozen or so of the world’s best street performers to ‘hat’ at the festival each year – we offer a contribution to their travel costs and provide food and accommodation for them during the festival, but they are primarily paid through the generosity of our audiences.

In 2013 Hat Fair became part of Live Theatre Winchester Trust (now known as Play to the Crowd), which also runs Theatre Royal Winchester.

Bringing together a historic theatre and an outdoor arts programme in creative collaboration has allowed us to develop our artistic ambitions relishing the opportunities this presents for encouraging talent and championing quality arts.

Festival Returning to its Roots

Last year saw our festival celebrate its 50th birthday in style, and this year it will return to its roots with a focus on our Hatters (buskers) and their brilliant street performances. After all, it’s where the festival takes its name from – putting a hat out after a performance to collect donations from the audience.

The 2025 festival will reminisce on its beginnings in 1974 as a hatter’s event and the programme will feature a line-up of street theatre, experts in clowning, magic, physical comedy, acrobatics and audience participation.

This year’s event will also celebrate our charity’s (Play to the Crowd) year-round engagement work with diverse local communities, providing a platform for groups and individuals to showcase their talent.

Hat Fair Continues Despite Loss of Funding

Two years ago, our charity lost regular Arts Council England NPO (National Porfolio Organisation) funding and Play to the Crowd has worked hard to keep the festival alive and developing.

This year the programme will take place over one day due to funding challenges, but Hat Fair 2025 promises to be as joyous as ever.

Words From Hat Fair Director

Andrew Loretto

‘The arts, along with other public services, face a huge funding and sustainability challenge in the current climate. Despite that, and with goodwill and support from our communities and partners, I’m looking forward to staging a one-day Hat Fair.

‘RecentlythecharitythatrunsHatFair –PlaytotheCrowd–wasdesignateda TheatreofSanctuary–recognisingthework thecharitydoeswithdiversecommunities andthosewhoarerecentarrivalstoour country.Nowherecelebratesandwelcomes thatcommunityworkbetterthanHatFair.’

Join In

We are always looking for local talent in and around Winchester to perform at Hat Fair, an incredible Outdoor Arts festival in Winchester City Centre. If you're a singer, musician, comic, member of a choir or dance troupe, or have another short performance you want to show the public, we'd love to hear from you.

Support Hat Fair

Anyone who is interested in investing in the festival so that it can remain a part of the city’s cultural calendar are welcome to contact Fundraising Manager, Becca Moore, at becca@playtothecrowd.co.uk

The Hat Fair 2025 will take place Saturday 5 July 2025. Full line-up to be announced. To view the full line-up visit the website at: www.hatfair.co.uk

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With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

With a modern ‘Eco-Design’ stove, you can be assured that you are doing your bit for the environment; burning the correct type of wood is carbon neutral and emissions from modern stoves are up to 90% lower than older stoves/open fires.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

For more information and the facts on woodburning stoves, please pop in to our showrooms or visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com.

Tel: (01962) 883776

Tel: (01962) 883776

Tel: (01962) 883776

Tel: (01962) 883776

Tel: (01962) 883776 domestic heating, there are no plans to ban woodburning stoves.

Email: info@kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk

Email: info@kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk

Email: info@kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk

Email: info@kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk

www.kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk

www.kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk

Tel: (01962) 883776

www.kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk

www.kingsworthyfoundry.co.uk Considering installing a woodburning stove in your home?

Tel: (01962) 883776

Tel: (01962) 883776

Summer Soup

SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS

400G COURGETTES TRIMMED AND SLICED

1 LARGE ONION PEELED AND DICED

450ML VEGETABLE OR CHICKEN STOCK

A HANDFUL OF BABY SPINACH LEAVES OR A BUNCH OF WATERCRESS

175G GARLIC AND HERB GOATS CHEESE

150 ML DOUBLE CREAM

FRESH HERBS FOR GARNISH – CHIVES, DILL

METHOD

Put the sliced courgettes and diced onion in a large saucepan with the vegetable or chicken stock then bring to the boil. Cover and simmer for 15 – 20 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Remove from the heat, add in the spinach or watercress and leave to wilt.

Blend the soup in food processor or liquidiser until smooth and then return to the cooking pot. Crumble the goats cheese and stir into the soup. Reheat the soup gently until the goats cheese softens, remove from the heat and stir in the cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve garnished with freshly chopped herbs.

JUNE HAMPSHIRE FARMERS MARKETS

Petersfield - Sun 1st, Romsey - Sun 1st, Winchester - Sun 8th, Alton - Sat 14th, Alresford - Sun 15th, Southsea - Sun 15th, Emsworth Summer Festival - Sat 21st, Ringwood - Sat 28th, Winchester - Sun 29th

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

Davina Tibbetts – New Forest Show 2016

Southern Voices – Summer Concert in Alresford

A fabulous, midsummer evening of choral music with instrumental accompaniment and tubular bells! Southern Voices are coming to Alresford with CANTICLES OF LIGHT, to St John’s Church, on Saturday 12 July, 7.30pm.

The concert opens evoking all the joy of an English high summer with three uplifting settings of Poems of Robert Bridges, by Gerald Finzi and Thou my love, art fair, is a beautifully elegant setting of a sixteenth century English poem by William Baldwin, arranged by Bob Chilcott.

In contrast, the choir will sing an Appalachian spiritual As I went down to the river to pray, in a modern setting by Phillip Lawson made famous by the Kings’ Singers and also With a lily in your hand, a wonderfully playful and energetic piece by American composer Eric Whitacre.

The fun continues with more Bob Chilcott, three highly entertaining arrangements: Feller from Fortune is a traditional Newfoundland fishing song with a dizzying mix of vocal spaghetti! The Gift to be simple winds its way skilfully in and around outbursts of the tune ‘I danced in the morning’ and We Are, another Kings’ Singers favourite, adds a refreshing, modern twist.

At the heart of the programme are two modern classics: The Canticles of Light by Bob Chilcott (commissioned in 2000 by Winchester Music Club) and Lux Aeterna (eternal light) by Morten Lauridsen, with all his sumptuous, signature harmonies.

Tickets £18 are now on sale: www.southernvoices.co.uk or telephone 0333 666 3366 (booking fees apply). Registered charity 1086868

June at the Allen Gallery

Jane Austen 250

Throughout Alton's Regency Week (20-29 June) we are thrilled to be displaying an original silk "pelisse" coat, one of few surviving items that belonged to Jane Austen. Donated by a descendant of Jane Austen and now in the collections cared for by Hampshire Cultural Trust, the author’s silk pelisse coat is one of a handful of items surviving today that belonged to Jane and can be traced directly back to her.

Talk: Jane’s Silk Pelisse 25 June, 3.00pm (1 hour) by Dr Alex Walker of Hampshire Wardrobe on the process of making a replica costume item. One of the most precious items in Hampshire Cultural Trust’s collection is a beautiful brown silk Pelisse, which once belonged to Jane Austen. The team at Hampshire Wardrobe have been hard at work creating a replica of the pelisse, doing as much as possible by hand, and discovering the good, the bad, and the ugly of Regency outerwear. Join Dr Alex Walker as she introduces you to

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the replica, explains exactly what a pelisse is, and tells the story of how Jane’s came to be in the care of HCT.

Regency Pastimes and tea in the garden. Wednesday 25th June. 12.30 till 4pm. Gallery tours at 3pm and 4pm FREE. Snowdrop Pottery (see below) will run a slip-casting workshop. Exhibition/Classes - Lisa Stevenson Ceramics (Snowdrop Studio, Medstead).

Lisa's exhibition will include a "work in progress" residency. Sculpted pots will be made and displayed at the Gallery. There will be workshops and demos on Saturdays, including special activities for Alton's Regency Week. Subjects included will be - Pinch pots, Coil pots, surface design and Lucie Rie influences. Lisa will run a morning demonstration on Saturdays 7, 14, 21 and 28 June, 11.30 -12.30. Followed by pottery classes the same afternoons from 1.30 - 3pm. Book through our website.

June at the Curtis Museum

Trails

There will be Jane Austen/Regency themed trails in both venues, including one based round Jane Austen's landscape and the animals she referred to in her writings.

New Book

Jane Austen: Family Connections with Alton & Chawton, by Jane Hurst. This is a timely publication in the year of general JA celebrations. It consists of articles Jane Hurst wrote for the Jane Austen Society Annual Reports.You can read about different local families who were involved with aspects of Austen life; descriptions of the background events in the area such as Christmas "Goodying" in Chawton; about the last years and death of Cassandra, Jane's beloved sister. Price £3 at the Curtis Museum.

Opening Times

Tuesday to Saturday

Curtis 10am – 4.30pm - Allen 10.30 – 4pm www.hampshireculture.org.uk/curtis-museum www.hampshireculture.org.uk/allen-gallery

[Please note the Gallery and Museum will be closed on Sundays until further notice]

What a year it’s been so far...

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a n d 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 r e m a i n 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 W e a r e p r

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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

t e s t t h

N o n y K e r r - S m i l e y 0 7 7 1 2 6 4 8 7 4 0

n o n y @ n o n y k e r r - s m i l e y c o m

Selling Strong in 2025...

S a m K e r r - S m i l e y 0 7 8 0 1 0 5 6 7 8 4

s a m @ n o n y k e r r - s m i l e y c o m

S e l l i n g P r o p e r t y w i t h H o n e s t y & I n t e g r i t y f o r o v e r 2 5 y e a r s

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