Winchester Forum - September 2024 - Issue 9 by Mark Tubb

Life in your City

Written by Lucia Foster-Found

SOUND ADVICE

Editor

Mark Tubb

editor@forumpublications.co.uk

Director of Advertising

Steve Walker stevewalker@forumpublications.co.uk

Advertising Manager

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

Feature Writer

Lucia Foster-Found

Forum Publications Offices

New Farm Road, Alresford, SO24 9QE

Tel: 01962 735137

www.forumpublications.co.uk

September Events

The Throne at Winchester Guildhall

Thur 5 to Sat 7 September

Thu/Fri - 6pm, Sat from 9am

Guildhall Winchester, Broadway, Winchester, SO23 9GH

Join us in beautiful Winchester, England for a powerful time at His feet with Liz Wright, Dr Brian Simmons, and Justin Paul Abraham. Worship led by Thomas Davis, Anna Hamilton and Sam Udy.

Mucky Weekender Festival

Thur 5 to Sat 7 September

See website

Vicarage Farm, Winchester, SO21 3BL

Join us at Vicarage Farm for our 5th Mucky Weekender Festival! This year's theme is the enchanting Mad Hatter's Tea Party, and we can't wait to get Mucky in Wonderland. The new dates for 2024 are Thursday 5th September (as an optional extra) Friday 6th and Saturday 7th September 2024 at our beautiful home Vicarage Farm. We look forward to welcoming you again! For more information visit: https://mucky-weekender.co.uk

Winchester Heritage Open Days

Friday 6 - Sunday 15 September

Various Times

Various locations see website: winchesterheritageopendays.org

Kosovo 25 – A lecture and lunch on the Gurkhas in Kosovo

Friday 6 September

From 10.30am

thought-provoking experience. A warm welcome awaits you. Free refreshments, mini readings £5, Healing, Gift stall, and Bereavement Support. Members £4, Non-members £5.50. Doors open 6:30 pm for 7 pm – 9 pm. With Medium - Irene Hall.

Archive Tours - Winchester College — Winchester Heritage Open Days

The Gurkha Museum, Peninsula Barracks, Winchester, SO23 8TP Fri 13 & Sat 14 September

Delivered in The Gurkha Museum’s newly refurbished library, this lecture will offer a unique insight on the challenges and pressures that came with commanding a Gurkha battalion during the war in Kosovo. https://thegurkhamuseum.co.uk/ event/kosovo-lecture/

Alresford Agricultural Show 2024

Saturday 7 September

From 8.30am to 6pm

The Alresford Agricultural Show Quite simply, a celebration of rural life and the communities which live in it. A one day event, beautiful Tichborne Park. The park is transformed from cattle grazing land into a Showground by a dedicated team of volunteers.

Tree of Life Centre

Demonstration of Mediumship Monthly Meeting

Thursday 12 September

From 6.30pm to 9pm

From 11am to 12.30pm

Winchester College, College Street, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 9NA

The College Archives record the history of the school, its estates, buildings and pupils from its foundation. Uniquely, the Archives are housed in the same rooms built for their storage in the 1390s, and due to the quality of that provision, remain remarkably well preserved. This tour allows a rare opportunity to the view two medieval rooms which house the school’s Archives, as well as documents and artefacts relating to the school’s history which will be on display. The tour will be delivered by our College Archivist, Suzanne.

Engineering Open Weekend on the Watercress Line

Tichborne Park, Alresford, SO24 0NA Sat 14 to Sun 15 September All Day Event

The Worthys, Jubilee Hall, Kings Worthy, Winchester, SO23 7AQ

Join us for an incredible evening of mediumship. This in-person evening will leave you amazed as our talented mediums connect with the spirit world. Experience messages from departed loved ones, and receive insightful guidance. Witness the power of the unseen as the medium delivers accurate and heartwarming messages. Whether you are a skeptic or a believer, the evening promises to be a fascinating and

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

Winchester Half Marathon

Saturday 21 September

See website for times

Guildhall Winchester, Broadway, Winchester, SO23 9GH

The Winchester Half Marathon is a beautiful course that starts and finishes in the centre of Winchester outside the Guildhall. Experience the very scenic route

through the idyllic setting of the countryside that takes in landmarks such as St Catherine’s Hill, Winchester Cathedral and King Alfred the Great. Various times see website: https:// www.winchesterhalf.co.uk/

Winchester Green Week

Sat 21 to Sun 29 September

Various Times

Various locations (see website)

Let's grow greener together. A festival to celebrate and promote sustainable living. For information on what's going on visit: www. winchestergreenweek.org.uk

Brocante Market

Sunday 22 September

From 8am to 4pm

Broad Street, Alresford

The Brocante flea market has now become a regular twice yearly event in Alresford with many enthusiasts as well as traders offering Antiques, Collectables, Vintage, Curios, Bric-a-Brac, Vinyl records and many quirky ‘finds’ you didn’t know you needed.

Winchester Careers Fair

Friday 27 September

From 10am to 2pm

Guildhall Winchester, Broadway, Winchester, SO23 9GH

Looking for a new Career?

Looking for your next Hire?

The UK Careers Fair returns to Winchester on Friday 27th September. Meet local and national employers face-to-face, and apply directly for hundreds of vacancies at the Winchester Careers Fair.

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

Any 3 Windows

Any 4 Windows

Any 5 Windows

Any 6 Windows

Any 7 Windows

Any 8 Windows

Any 9 Windows

Any 10 Windows

Any 11 Windows

Any 12 Windows

Any 13 Windows

Any 14 Windows

Any 15 Windows

Kings Worthy – £875,000 Freehold

A truly immaculate home veritably brimming with high quality fittings. This extended detached house at the end of the close is on the largest plot and offers very flexible accommodation, including four bedrooms, four reception rooms and detached double garage. The garden is equally glorious, having been professionally landscaped in an oriental style.

EPC: C Council Tax: F

Kings Worthy – £825,000 Freehold This very well presented and surprisingly spacious four

and

C Council Tax: E

& LETTINGS AGENTS

Shawford – £975,000 Freehold

A tremendously spacious detached family home at nearly 3000 square feet. Immaculately presented and replete with high-quality features, this wonderful property on a quarter of an acre offers five bedrooms, large living room, double garage and beautifully landscaped grounds. The accommodation is particularly generous and a viewing is essential.

EPC: C Council Tax: G

Winchester City Centre – £650,000 Freehold

A particularly well-presented and fully modernised cottage on St. Giles Hill. Situated privately and elevated from the road, this welcoming home offers three bedrooms, wonderful social kitchen, front and rear gardens and a clever blend of both period character and modern convenience.

EPC: C Council Tax: D

All roads lead to Hampshire

Funny how thirty eight years ago I couldn’t get away fast enough and yet now… Escaping to London and later Hertfordshire, I formed a rock band, CAT. We travelled the UK and Europe, performing our album, a mesmerising, awakening experience.

The bright lights and constant pulse of a multifaceted life were far removed from the dark, silent village I’d left behind. When I had my daughter, I decided to focus on another dream, of becoming an author. My over active imagination finally found its voice. Life became exciting. I had three books published and several others written, waiting for editing.

Book signings and events were in place when lockdown hit. Like many others, my whole life turned upside down. I did not fair well in lockdown, anxiety stifled my creativity. It seemed no sooner were we out of lockdown when my father died, suddenly drawing me back to Hampshire.

As I negotiated my way through this new reality, I kept trying to figure out where I fitted in. After all I’d been gone so long. I was grieving, I was missing Hertfordshire, my home, my friends and daughter. I was lost and craved solace. Half written songs, unfinished novels and the show I’d written, now seemed to taunt me. Each creation fighting for it’s time to shine.

Then something remarkable happened. I’ve never really believed in fate and yet people gathered me up. Introductions were made and then unexpectedly, I found my mojo in the last place I’d thought I’d find it. Old friends and family welcomed me with open arms,. New friends and acquaintances were made, suddenly the dark, silent village was set ablaze by the love, light and laughter that these people put in my heart. Opportunities arose. I met some incredible musicians and a producer who I’ve been writing new songs with. We had our debut gig recently and are about to release our first single.

My father's friend introduced me to a talented composer who I shall be working with to get the show completed next year. Much like me, Hampshire has changed a lot! Stockbridge has become a fascinating little town with a collection of unique pubs and shops, one could quite easily lose themselves for days exploring. As for our village, Houghton. The fabulous eclectic people who live here often share my love of it’s Anchor, our fabulous local Pub which has doubled up as my second office when needed.

I am currently writing a romantic novel set in Stockbridge and a journal of my life getting reacquainted with Hampshire. So yes, all roads have led me back to Hampshire and when I do have to venture beyond, I can’t wait to get back.Please do come along to one of our gigs or my book signings, all details to be found on my website.

You can also purchase my books directly from my website and I shall personally sign them for you.

catherinelawless.com

How much is your property worth?

A property is worth what a purchaser or tenant is prepared to pay. The value of property within a similar location can differ hugely and is influenced by the popularity of a specific area or neighbourhood, accessibility to schools, transport links, countryside or coast and of course timing in terms of supply and economy.

Portal valuations, whilst popular, do not consider these influencing factors nor any works or money spent on improvements. They are simply based on average percentage calculations and can be wildly inaccurate.

An experienced local property professional is tuned in to all influencing factors, is aware of the expectations of vendors and landlords and will be able to provide you with a realistic valuation. For a FREE market appraisal call Kate or Claudia on 01962 571189

Kate Porter

Sales

katep@countryhousecompany.co.uk

Claudia Hunt Lettings

claudia@countryhousecompany.co.uk

Kate Morton

Management

kate@countryhousecompany.co.uk

Tel: 01962 571189

info@countryhousecompany.co.uk

sales@countryhousecompany.co.uk

lettings@countryhousecompany.co.uk countryhousecompany.co.uk

Kitchen and bedroom makeovers

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Whether you want to just change your doors, or change everything you can see on the face, we can utilise your existing units, and change all the trims and panels, just like in the photos above, yes that really was a makeover, with a couple of small changes. Call us today for a free of charge home visit.

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.

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

Winnall Rock School – Roaring TwentyA Belter of a Show! Where Next?

Winnall Rock School (WRS) celebrated 20 years of delivering their accessible, free music-making service for young people with their show, Roaring Twenty, at the Theatre Royal Winchester on 17th July.

As well as performing thirteen original songs written over the last year and a sprinkling of older classics, there was an opportunity to celebrate everyone’s personal and collective achievements. This included giving thanks to former WRS Chairman Paul Pounsford for 19 years’ service to the organisation’s committee and keyboard tutor, John Sammes, who had volunteered at WRS since 2015.

Chris Redmond, WRS’s music leader declared, “Wow! That was a belter of a show. They all stepped up and brought their A Game to create a fun, inspiring, memorable show for everyone. I was immensely proud of them all. You don't just get standing ovations. You earn them. So, when the whole audience stood up at the end to cheer, it's because they did something exceptional.”

Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Russell Gordon-Smith said. “It was my great pleasure to attend Winnall Rock School’s celebration of an incredible 20 years of service to the district and I was so impressed by the talent on display! I send my congratulations to all involved, including those who will have worked so hard behind the scenes. “The charity does such valuable work in the community creating inclusive opportunities for young people and supporting their wellbeing. We look forward to continued success for the school for the next twenty years - and beyond!”

Attention now turns to next year and beyond. Peter Brown (WRS’s Project Coordinator) said – “Our show was a brilliant demonstration of what we are about and inspires us to achieve more. We have a great programme lined up for 2025, but its delivery depends on the efforts of our volunteers to help run our workshops and secure finance. Offers to help ‘make the magic happen’ in the studio or the back-office are very welcome.”

Introducing Kerry Dovey - New Associate Member, Godwins Solicitors LLP

How did you get into rural property law?

Godwins Solicitors LLP, are delighted to announce that Kerry Dovey has joined the team as Associate Member, specialising in Farms, Estates and Country Houses.

We caught up with Kerry to discover what led her into a career in rural and agricultural law and to understand how she can help with the sale, purchase and lettings of rural property.

Growing up on my parents’ dairy farm, agriculture has always been in the blood. Having decided early on that I wanted a professional career, a solicitor supporting the rural community seemed a good choice.

What is your professional experience?

I trained with a niche private client firm White & Bowker, based in Winchester, qualifying in 2004 before working with two large regional firms for the past 20 years in their Farms and Estates practices. I support clients with the sale, purchase and lettings of rural property — both residential and agricultural. My expertise is far-reaching and includes assisting clients with everything from the purchase of large estates through to smaller country properties.

What is your approach?

I am a very pragmatic lawyer who focuses on the important details of the transaction with the overall objective of achieving a conclusion to the deal. I am friendly, approachable and like to build a long term relationship with my clients.

How can you help Clients?

I act for high net worth individuals and landowners who are seeking a personal service. Whether clients are looking to buy agricultural or residential property within Hampshire, or sell or let property across the UK, I provide a high standard of advice and expertise. I regularly advise on deeds of easements for services, renewable projects and access. I also act for lenders and carry out large-scale security work on rural properties for the major banks.

You live in the New Forest which we understand has particular nuances when it comes to property?

Having lived in the New Forest my whole life and being a practicing commoner (the ancient right of pasturing animals on Crown Land), I have a deep knowledge of the nuances surrounding New Forest properties including rights of access and common rights.

Why Godwins?

I’m really looking forward to joining Godwins, as such a well-respected firm within Winchester and the Hampshire/Dorset area. I’m sure with my rural property background and Godwin’s high calibre of private clients, I will be able to compliment Godwin’s already impressive property offering for clients.

And finally, what do you enjoy doing when not working?

I have a young family so when not working you’ll find me at home with them or out riding with my horses in the New Forest.

For over 200 years, Godwins have offered a first-class service to farms and estates around Winchester and beyond. Get in touch with Kerry and the team on 01962 841484 to find out how they can help you.

Presentations and thanks to former Chairman Paul Pounsford – awarded ‘The Golden Ukulele of Rock’ and John Sammes our very own keyboard wizard.

The Mayor gives his thanks

Passing on your wealth through pensions

The abolition of the lifetime allowance could make pensions an even more attractive way of passing on wealth to the next generation.

Pensions can usually be passed on to your loved ones free from inheritance tax (IHT). Now that there is effectively no limit on the amount of money you can tax-efficiently build up in pensions over your lifetime, considering your estate plan could allow you to make a bigger difference to your family’s financial future.

A financial adviser can create an estate plan that suits your needs and maximises money. In the meantime, here are some points to consider.

How are pensions taxed on death?

Pensions are tax-efficient for passing wealth to beneficiaries.

If you die before age 75, benefits can usually be paid taxfree from a defined contribution pension. If you die after age 75, they will be taxed at the beneficiaries’ marginal rate of income tax. As long as the funds stay in drawdown, they will also remain IHT free.

6 April 2024 saw the introduction of the Lump Sum and Death Benefit Allowance (LSDBA) which limits the amount of tax-free lump sum that can be paid in your lifetime and on death. For this tax year, this is £1,073,100, but could be higher if you have a form of Lifetime Allowance protection. If the limit is breached, the excess lump sum is taxable at the beneficiary’s marginal income tax rate.

How could the LTA abolition affect estate planning?

In March 2023, the government announced that the lifetime allowance (LTA) was being scrapped. This was a cap on the amount of money you could save in pensions over your lifetime without triggering a tax charge. The LTA was abolished on 6 April 2024.

Any other limits to be aware of?

The pension annual allowance is £60,000 (2024/25 tax year), or 100% of UK relevant earnings for most people, whichever is lower. If you exceed the annual allowance, you’ll have to pay a tax charge.

It’s really important to understand what your annual allowance is and whether you’re at risk of breaching it.

For this tax year, the maximum tax-free lump sum (known as the Lump Sum Allowance) that you can draw from pensions is capped at £268,275 (unless you have lifetime allowance protection).

What else do I need to consider?

Maxing out your annual allowance may not be right for you.

You can’t access money in DC pensions until age 55 (57 from April 2028). If you need money before then, ISAs or other savings may be a better option. ISAs can also be a useful way of building tax-efficient income in retirement. Other investment options could be worth considering, such as venture capital trusts (VCTs) or Enterprise Investment Schemes (EISs). For some, lifetime gifting could be preferable to see loved ones benefit during your lifetime.

Next steps

Inheritance planning is complex - and that’s where getting some guidance comes in to provide confidence that you’ve laid the firmest foundations for your family’s future.

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

Kirsty Simpson

Financial Planner

Divisional Director E: kirsty.simpson@brewin.co.uk

Kirsty Simpson Financial Planner Divisional Director E: kirsty.simpson@brewin.co.uk

Alice Proctor

Investment Manager

Assistant Director

E: alice.proctor@brewin.co.uk

Assistant Director E: alice.proctor@brewin.co.uk

46 Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8RY T: 01962 798000 W: www.brewin.co.uk/ our-offices/winchester

www.brewin.co.uk/ our-offices/winchester

The value of investments, and any income from them, can fall and you may get back less than you invested. This does not constitute tax or legal advice. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy.

Mr. Mac

Microsoft will discontinue support for Windows 10 in the autumn of 2025 and is actively encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 11 for free. Currently, Windows 10 operates on 69% of all desktop computers. However, not all PCs and laptops are compatible with Windows 11 due to hardware limitations. It's important to note that many Windows 10 machines are older models and may need to be replaced. When Microsoft ends support for Windows 10, continuing to use it will not be safe. There are many new Windows machines available that run Windows 11, with good laptops priced between £350 and £550 and decent All-in-One machines starting at £450. I recommend purchasing from John Lewis, as they offer competitive prices and an additional 1-year warranty included in the purchase price.

I set up numerous machines every month and am available to provide unbiased advice if you are considering an upgrade. I also recommend having your new machine set up professionally to avoid potential issues. I offer a full installation service, including pickup and delivery. Simply click the “buy now” button, and I will handle the rest!

I can also help to dispose of your old equipment. I safely erase all the data and prepare the machine for use by a charity working with refugees. I do the same with old phones and tablets.

Finally this month, for additional security when you are out and about with your iPhone consider attaching it to a lanyard, Native Union (nativeunion.com) make two, one for cross body and one for the wrist. They are strong and a very useful accessory available in various colours.

Andy - Mr Mac: 07392 552592 www.mistermac.co.uk

WARNER AND RICHARDSON LLP ARE INDEPENDENT SOLICITORS LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC CITY OF WINCHESTER.

WE HAVE A STRONG, LONG STANDING REPUTATION FOR PERSONAL SERVICE AND HIGH QUALITY LEGAL ADVICE.

FOR INFORMATION ON HOW WE CAN HELP YOU WITH ANY OF THESE MATTERS:-

• WILLS, PROBATE AND ESTATES

• RESIDENTIAL CONVEYANCING

PLEASE CONTACT US ON Visit our website:-

• COMMERCIAL, AGRICULTURAL AND BUSINESS CONVEYANCING • Financial planning • Investment: discretionary & advisory management

Theatre, Shows & Concerts

Carson Mchone

The world’s premier Stranglers Carson McHone is a songwriter from Austin, Texas, now residing in Southern Ontario. McHone’s 2018 internationally released Carousel (Loose Music/Nine Mile Records), produced by Mike McCarthy, was a reimagining of songs from her formative years coming of age playing in dive bars. For ticket visit: https://www.wegottickets.com/ event/622252

Peter Bruntell Band

From

The self-effacing Devonian is the ultimate musician’s musician, gaining respect from his peers all over the world for the atmospheric works that he creates with his long-distance songwriting partner Bill Ritchie. For tickets visit: https://www. wegottickets.com/event/610694

Me Lost Me plus GWFAA + Jayetal

beyond the stars with galactically renowned interstellar artist –“Sushimoog”, who will be launching their first terrestrial album – “Mostly Harmless”: a celestial mix of everything from disco bouzouki and guitarviol to pumping Moogs, screaming guitar, Arabic melodies, cinematic landscapes and soaring classical opera. For tickets visit: https://www.wegottickets.com/ event/621672#tickets

St. James's Tavern 3-5 Romsey Rd, Winchester, SO22 5BE

Jazz Night with Cinnamon Jazz

Saturday 7 September

From 7.30pm

The Tavern's monthly jazz night, hosted by Cinnamon Jazz.

North Walls Park, Hillier Way, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 7SU Saturday 14 September

Winchester Rugby Club

Wednesday 25 September

From 8pm

Just Like Clay

After their electrifying spontaneous set at Glastonbury Festival 2023, the two dynamic fusion groups The Trouble Notes and Good Habits are reuniting to take the UK by storm this summer! For tickets visit: https://railwayinn.pub/shows/justlike-clay-2024-09-18

Aqualine

Me Lost Me delights in experimenting with songwriting and storytelling, creating a beguiling mix of soaring vocals and atmospheric electronics that playfully push the boundaries of genre For tickets visit: https://railwayinn.pub/shows/melost-me-2024-09-12

Sushimoog

An evening of dazzling music from

Aqualine is a 5-piece band based in Guildford. Together, they craft an explosive yet melancholic blend of alternative rock, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of genres such as shoegaze, grunge, hip-hop, post-punk and experimental ambience. For tickets visit: https://railwayinn.pub/ shows/aqualine-2024-09-20

London Show Choir Concert

Saturday 28 September

Doors 7pm (starts 9pm)

Winchester Uke Jam

The Winchester Uke Jam meets on the 4th Wednesday of every month at The Winchester Rugby Club and all are welcome, regardless of ability. You don't have to be a uke player to join in. They welcome any stringed instrument or if you fancy playing a bit of percussion, having a sing or just want to listen then go along.

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

Borrowed Breath

Art exhibition by Laurence Edwards

Fri 6 Sept to Tues 5 Nov

From 9am to 5pm

The exhibition in the north transept at Winchester Cathedral presents a series of ethereal, cut-through, transmorphic figures by Laurence Edwards particularly inspired by the history of the Great West Window. This Autumn, fifteen sculptures by Laurence Edwards from his leaf series will be on view, including new pieces which have been created especially in response of Winchester Cathedral.

In a night of entertainment celebrating music from the stage and screen, London Show Choir bring together songs covering composers such as Stephen Sondheim, Queen, Alanis Morissette and Stephen Schwartz. Take in iconic musicals across the decades from Company to Hairspray, the power ballads of the James Bond franchise and the musicals that crossed from the stage to the silver screen like Les Misèrables, Dear Evan Hansen and the upcoming Wicked movie, all accompanied live by piano and string quartet. For tickets visit: https:// www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/ book-online/348801

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons & The Lark Ascending

Friday 4 October

From 7.30pm

London Concertante are delighted to announce the return of their sell-out Vivaldi’s Four Seasons by Candlelight concert series. Experience astounding music by one of classical music’s greatest composers performed by some of the country’s best classical musicians all presented by stunning candlelight inside Winchester Cathedral. For tickets visit: https:// www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/ book-online/341001

For more shows and concerts see page 26 >>

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

Online programme resumes in the Winchester/Alresford area to provide girls from 8- 18 with essential ‘tools for their toolboxes - for life’

“The Girls’ Net programme is designed to offer fun and support for your daughter as she grows up and manages the challenges of preteen and teen life.” Kim McCabe, founder of Rites for Girls CIC and author of best-selling book, ‘From Daughter to Woman, Parenting Girls Safely Through Their Teens’ (Robinson, 2018).

Local Girls’ Net Mentor, ex-teacher and mum of three, Tracy Spring, stated, “When I read about this programme in the Sunday Times two years ago, something inside me clicked: it’s an easy, innovative and safe opportunity for growing girls to have some space and time to just beand discover more about - themselves; so I trained and qualified to be a part of its delivery!

“We see and hear about the struggles and pressures our girls are facing – from what they see on social media; with their bodies changing; with friendship challenges and managing the transition to secondary school. Girls’ Net is the support I would love to have had when I was a girl. I’m delighted to be offering the once-a-week-for-six-weeks course again - anywhere in the world – time zone permitting!”

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

As the local Girls’ Net Mentor, Tracy Spring is delighted to be offering Girls’ Net again after October half term. For more information and to sign up, visit: www.ritesforgirls.com or contact Tracy directly: girlsnet. mentor.tracy@gmail.com or call 07957 128790 - she’d love to hear from you!

Harringtons Helps

At Haringtons we have always been proud members of the communities we serve, offering to help when asked and providing a service which we know improves the wellbeing of our customers.

With the world providing little opportunity for positivity right now we wanted to extend our reach and give back a little more, with the simple aim of spreading a little joy and so we came up with the concept Haringtons Helps.

Haringtons Helps offers individuals and groups within our communities the chance to come and experience our Cut and Finish service completely free of charge, quite simply to raise the spirits of those that need it.

Whether its a thank you to the leader of a community group doing vital work, some recognition of a volunteer that’s gone the extra mile, a little pick me up hair cut for someone who has lost their job or a confidence boost for those who have come out of the other side of chemowe’re there.

Each week our reception teams will share the appointments which are available and we book them on a first come, first served basis*.

We hope you and/or your group enjoy being part of the Haringtons Experience.

Do you know someone who deserves our extra special care and attention? If there's a group or a person you know that warrants this special attention - please let us know and we'll add them to our waiting list. Visit: https://www.haringtons.com/haringtons-helps

Because let's face it, on a good hair day, you can conquer the world! With love from Haringtons

Harringtons Winchester 16 The Square, Winchester, SO23 9ES T: 1962 850 850 www.haringtons.com/find-a-salon/winchester-hair-salon

Kim McCabe

Tracy Spring

At communities providing of With right little so

Haringtons communities and raise Whether doing gone who have

Each which served

We Haringtons

With x

*One appointment only per person

A Coat of Many Colours

© Lucia Foster-Found 2024 www.luciafosterfound.com

“Another one?” Himself stood looking over her shoulder at the wall. She daubed on a little more paint and stepped back to admire her handiwork.

The wall bore the marks of many attempts to find a perfect shade of cream.

“Yes, another one.” She tried and failed to keep the testy tone from her voice as she elaborated, “That,” she flicked a finger dismissively at an innocuous-looking sample, “reminds me of our first home. Magnolia. Magnolia everywhere. And that unmistakable stench of something that died in the walls whilst we were in the Isle of Wight on a mini-break. I couldn’t get the smell of magnolia paint and the odour of death out of my nostrils for weeks.”

“Not that one then..” Himself too was having nasal flashbacks.

“No.” She said firmly. “And that,” she pointed again, “is too blue. That one’s too white and that’s too pink.” She was jabbing her finger at the patches that bedecked the conservatory. “I feel like Goldilocks; I need one that’s just right.”

“Probably best you leave them all to dry and come back to it with fresh eyes tomorrow. In the meantime, and same-same-butdifferent, what coats did you anticipate taking on holiday?” he asked with some trepidation.

Himself cast his mind back to the same time the year before; she’d emerged from the house at the last moment with armfuls of coats for which he’d had to make room in the car. He’d decided to find out early to plan his packing - this year they were taking the dogs and space in the vehicle would be at a premium.

“No idea,” she said breezily, putting down her brush. “But actually, I’ve just had a thought…” She disappeared back into the house and emerged with a new-ish acquisition. A cross between a bathrobe and a waterproof coat, it belonged to a genre that had been both the darling of lockdown and the object of some ridicule. It had inspired hashtags of the slightly offensive variety and (apparently) in places some signage of the ‘people wearing these types of coats need not tarry here’ kind.

When she’d expressed an interest in buying one for dog-walking purposes, Himself had been mildly amused and read to her the mocking articles from the internet. As a consequence, she’d promised most solemnly never to wear it in Chelsea, Kensington –anywhere in London in fact, or to Waitrose. As she frequented none of the above, this was not a hardship.

“This is exactly the cream I’m looking for!” She announced triumphantly, holding up her robe coat to the backdrop of the patchy wall.

With that, she twirled it like a matador and threw it over her

shoulders. Himself watched her march away with a sigh – and returned to his time-sensitive list of jobs on the countdown to France. The dogs had already received their rabies jabs and it now remained for them to get their Animal Health Certificates. She’d had to remind Himself to renew his own ‘pet passport’ too and he was anxiously awaiting its return as he crossed off the squares on his calendar.

It almost made him long for the good old days when they’d all jumped in the car on a whim and driven to a B&B in Paignton with nylon sheets and a Goblin Teasmade.

But then he pictured the oyster sheds, the seafood restaurants, the market stalls groaning with sun-ripened produce and artisanal bread. And himself on a sandy beach, cold beer in hand, watching the dogs swimming around his wife in a sewage-free sea. A sea from which she would emerge and don her robe coat before a saunter through the sand dunes back to their cabin for a long, lazy repas of fromage, charcuterie, pain et vin.

Aaah, c’est si bon!

Presently, she returned with paint that perfectly matched the colour of aforementioned robe coat. Himself looked at the unfamiliar label and asked the price – he being of a mindset that paint shouldn’t cost more than a tenner a tin. With due concern for his dicky heart, she mumbled something incoherently, before passing comment that it would be so great to get the conservatory freshened up before they went away. Himself’s dicky heart sank as he added it to ‘the list’.

Having streamlined the packing so she would be able to bring all of her coats of many colours and genres on holiday if she so desired (and she might), no one was more surprised than he when he found time in his busy and ever-demanding schedule to both start the painting - and finish it.

Much to her delight and praise. “That’s fantastic darling. I was only joking when I said it’d be nice to get it done before the holiday…”

‘Now she tells me’, he thought. But Himself was magnanimous and modest. “Of course, good quality paint will justify its cost and pay for itself, I say!” She looked at his happy face and thought, on balance, it was still just as well he didn’t know the eye-watering price, as he went on to announce, “It only took the one coat.”

She smiled to herself and said, “I was just about to say something similar. You know my robe’s so versatile – it’s waterproof and it’s warm if it gets chilly – and it goes with so many colours…” She paused. Then, with a slightly incredulous shake of her head, she uttered a sentence that both she and Himself would never have believed would pass her lips.

“For this holiday, I too am only taking the one coat...”

Tucked away in gorgeous historic Alresford, Hampshire, Saddle House Medi-Spa will help you discover and uncover your very best you. Saddle House is a nurse-led Medi-Spa of excellence with a private car park for complete discretion. Treatments Include:

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Bailey House Alresford

Set in the heart of Alresford, Bailey House provides accommodation for Seniors who need support to maintain their independent living. Close to shops, Church and Surgery it is ideally placed for those who wish to maintain their independence but are finding day-to-day life a challenge.

Bailey House was purpose built in 1988. The main objective was to support residents to live independently, whilst providing meals and freedom from life admin. Loneliness and isolation can be very difficult for those living alone, this is relieved by the companionship and family atmosphere at Bailey House.

The house is managed by a team of dedicated Trustees all of whom live locally and strive to make Bailey House a homely, happy place to live. It is affiliated to the Abbeyfield Society, who are a charity providing safe, welcoming homes for older people.

Ten rooms provide comfortable accommodation, which residents can furnish with their own belongings. Each room has a kitchenette area with fridge and kettle where breakfast, snacks and drinks can be made. Every room has an ensuite shower and there is a larger bathroom on each floor available for all residents to make use of. Personal care is not

provided, but carers can be employed privately to visit residents if needed.

The newly refurbished lounge/dining area, along with the conservatory and garden, offer comfortable areas for residents to socialise or entertain friends and family. Residents enjoy eating together and socialising. Delicious, home cooked, lunches and teas are served in the dining area.

Rent is paid monthly, and there are no additional costs. Utilities, Council Tax etc. are included in the rent.

Bailey House manager Sally, along with a team of friendly cooks/ housekeepers ensure that day-to-day life runs smoothly.

“I’m very happy here, it’s worked very well for me”

“ Very happy atmosphere, I enjoy the summer BBQs”

“The location is perfect, the shops and Surgery just a short walk away”

“Everyone gets on well, I love living here”

“Very convenient location. I am shocked at how little it costs to live here. We are all very lucky to live here”

If you, or someone you know is finding it increasingly difficult to live alone and cope with shopping and cooking, Bailey House may be the ideal solution.

Enquiries and informal visits are welcomed. Come and meet our friendly team and join our residents for coffee.

Contact Sally (Manager): 01962 735181 Email sallybaileyhouse@gmail.com www.baileyhousealresford.com

Theatre, Shows & Concerts

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

Thief and Flyte. For tickets visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=939801

Robin Morgan: The Spark

As featured on BBC Two’s Mock The Week and BBC Radio 4’s The News Quiz, Robin Morgan is back on the road with a hilarious brand new show, The Spark - his biggest tour to date. For tickets visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=878601

Megson

When a good, honest husband tries to have an affair… A fast-paced comedy set in mid ‘70s New York. Barney Cashman is having a midlife crisis and he’s decided to solve it the old-fashioned way - with a few one-night stands. The only trouble is, he really doesn’t know what he’s doing. For tickets visit: https:// www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/ winchester/chesil-theatre/last-of-thered-hot-lovers/e-zladml

Four times nominated in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and double winners of the Spiral Earth Awards MEGSON create a truly unique brand of folk music. Combining an infectious mix of heavenly vocals, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic guitars, MEGSON have gained a reputation not only for their arresting and intelligent songwriting, but for their exquisite musicianship and northern humor. For tickets visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=900602

from

friends

Porter

Paul

Crosby Stills & Nash, Nick Drake, The Beach Boys and Cat Stevens as well as modern artists - Fleet Foxes, Big

this trio of musicians who are creating music that moves and excites people. To book visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=902201

Mitch Benn: The Point

Like all those who spread mirth for a living, MITCH BENN ("the country's leading musical satirist" - The Times) has been wondering if he's really making a difference, and if there is - yes - a POINT to what heor anybody - is doing. Well the good news is he's had a long hard think about it and he's figured it out, and he's coming back to tell us all what the POINT of comedy - and much else besides - might be… For tickets visit: https://www.arcwinchester.org. uk/booking?id=875002

Harriet KemsleyEverything always works out for me

coming up with an exit plan. When the one person he thought he could rely on ups and leaves, Ryan finds himself adrift in a city he still hasn’t learned to like, looking for direction. Six months to kill, no money, no rules… surely this is the worst possible time to be alone? For tickets visit: https://www.ticketsource. co.uk/the-nutshell-arts-cic/cantwait-to-leave/e-ylamlv

JazzBops: September 2024

Tarren is an ambassador for New-Folk; music that is fresh and dynamic, rooted in the English tradition. Original and traditional material is expertly arranged by

Ridiculous things always happen to Harriet, but this year it's out of control. She's got to rebuild her whole life but she cannot work out which way the building blocks go. The muti award-winning Harriet Kemsley is back with a new show about break-ups, sloths and trying to think positively while everything descends into absolute chaos. For tickets visit: https:// www.arcwinchester.org.uk/ booking?id=868201

Can't Wait to Leave

He's new in town, and all he wants to do is check out. The hard part is

Join us for our monthly Jazz Club for grown-ups and their little ones in partnership with Winchester Jazz Festival. Grab a coffee and a slice of cake, park up your buggies or scooters and get ready for a mid-week lunchtime concert featuring some of the UK's best Jazz musicians. For tickets visit: https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/the-nutshell-artscic/jazzbops/e-vlkaam

Jonny Wickham: Terra Boa

Terra Boa - his first album as a band leader is a self-professed love letter to to the sprawling rhythmic traditions of Brazil. A record handled with deep musical sensitivity and knowledge, it embraces tradition & lineage whilst forging its own unique path through the lens of contemporary jazz and improvised music. For tickets visit: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ the-nutshell-arts-cic/the-nutshelljazz-club/e-jbqboe

Due to events selling out quickly we are unable to provide details of events for the Theatre Royal during September. For up to date information and booking visit: https://www.theatreroyalwinchester. co.uk/

Tarren

Last of the Red Hot Lovers

Acoustic Cafe: Burr Island

The duo, comprised of best

Tom England

Oskar

Brentford, take their inspiration

the works of Lennon/ McCartney,

Simon,

OPEN DAYS

Friday 27th September | Pre-Prep

Saturday 5th October | Whole School

Saturday 16th November | Virtual

Book your place here

The Pilgrims’ School is a Pre-Prep & Prep school for boys aged 4-13 in the heart of the city of Winchester.

Explore The Pilgrims’ School, where we believe every boy’s journey is unique. Our historic school is where echoes of a world-famous musical tradition merge with the serenity of green spaces at the city’s heart. Here, your son will walk the Pilgrims’ path and carve his own route towards excellence in every aspect of life. Join us for our Open Day and discover how we inspire boys to achieve their best in any walk of life they choose.

Let The Pilgrims’ School be the next step on your son’s journey. Find out more at thepilgrims-school.co.uk

Hambrooks Landscaping

Creating beautiful gardens for over 50 years

Experience excellence at Hambrooks! With decades of expertise and personalised service, our tailored designs, landscaping and bespoke maintenance keep your garden thriving year-round. Explore our Garden Centre, Titchfield brimming with stunning display gardens and quality plants for endless inspiration. Experience the Hambrooks difference – where every aspect of your vision blossoms to life.

Danny Chambers, MP for Winchester

Parliament may be in Summer recess as I’m writing this, but as a newly elected MP, my team and I are working hard to serve our community.

My dedicated volunteers, who played a pivotal role in the general election campaign, are now assisting me in setting up a Constituency office and recruiting staff. Together, we've already responded to hundreds of emails, letters and phone calls addressing a wide range of concerns and queries from local residents.

The recent floods have once again caused significant disruption across the District. I visited Alresford, where homeowners faced the worst flooding they’d seen in over 20 years. On Winchester High Street I met with the staff and owners of Wellbeing Pharmacy and Char Teas, where I witnessed firsthand the damage caused by the floods.

Healthcare remains my top priority. But the Chancellor’s revelation that the Conservatives had hidden an extra £22bn hole in public finances means the Government will be looking hard at how we can reform and improve healthcare to be more cost effective. In response, I asked my first question in the House of Commons about the importance of investing in GPs, dental care, mental health care and public health in order to keep people healthy in the community rather than treating them in hospital when they get sick. Investing in primary care results in better outcomes for patients and for taxpayers.

We all know how difficult it can be to get an appointment with a GP and at a recent meeting in Parliament with the Royal College of General Practitioners, we discussed the shortage of GPs and how this can be rectified.

I’ve met with the Integrated Care Board recently where we discussed health services, including mental health care, throughout Hampshire. We also discussed the urgent concerns raised by residents and local healthcare professionals regarding the proposed reduction of services at Winchester's A&E and consultant-led maternity services. Let me be clear: I am ensuring

the voices of our residents are being heard. Access to acute care is not merely a matter of convenience - it is a matter of life and death. Despite claims by the Conservatives during the general election that they were going to deliver a new hospital for Hampshire, it has come as no surprise to hear Luke Murphy, the new Labour MP for Basingstoke, reveal that ‘the funding was never there.’ We are currently awaiting the Government’s review of the new hospital programme, and I will be pushing for the best outcome for Winchester.

I had an insightful meeting with Jo Cruse from the pressure group “Delivering Better” regarding the state of maternity services. As a trustee of a mental health charity, I was deeply shocked to learn from Jo that suicide is the leading cause of death among mothers from six weeks to one year after giving birth.

Indeed, maternity services are under significant pressure nationwide. The Care Quality Commission’s ‘Maternity Survey 2022’ revealed a deterioration in maternity care experiences over the previous five years. Additionally, the CQC’s ‘State of Care 2022/23’ report indicated that the percentage of maternity services rated ‘inadequate’ increased from 6% in 2022 to 10% in 2023, signalling that these problems are worsening.

Delivering Better is advocating for several policy changes, particularly concerning maternal mental health, and is calling for a statutory inquiry into the state of maternity services across the nation.

I’m also working hard on the many other issues aside from healthcare the people in Winchester feel strongly about - I’ve joined the All Party Parliamentary Group on Climate, and have met with the police to discuss everything from rural crime to the riots that have been seen in our cities. This was a good reminder that elected politicians need to be very careful with our choice of words - legitimising and emboldening thugs and hooligans by claiming they are standing up for British Values makes the job of our fantastic but over-stretched police force so much harder.

On a personal note - it’s taken a month to recover fully from Covid, but I’m finally back running around the paths and trails of our beautiful countryside. This latest strain of Covid really knocked me for six, so it’s a good reminder to keep up to date with our vaccines before the double whammy of the winter flu arrives. As always, I am available to discuss any concerns you may have or to hear your thoughts on the issues affecting our community.

Danny Chambers MP For Winchester

IThe Boatman's Bubble

n the margins and meanders of our chalk streams, where there is a slower flow, amazing insects swim across the surface. Lesser water boatmen may be small – up to 1.5cm long – but their unique characteristics make them a memorable sighting. There are actually several species in their family (Corixidae), and while they are hard to tell apart with the naked eye, their common features can help you to spot them.

The first thing to look for is a brown, boat-shaped body, although a close look at most lesser water boatmen will reveal golden yellow stripes. Another clue is a pair of long legs; their oar shape and ‘fringe’ of hairs are handy for both swimming and floating on the surface. Then there are the large, reddish-brown eyes, which have a compound structure that combines many tiny lenses to create a wide view.

Despite living in ponds, lakes, and rivers, lesser water boatmen don’t have gills. Instead, they employ a clever trick for taking longer dives: their undersides are covered in water-repelling hairs, which

trap a bubble of air against their bodies. This bubble acts like the tank of a scuba diver, feeding the insects oxygen through small holes – or ‘spiracles’ – in their exoskeletons. This comes in handy when foraging for food, which for most species will be algae and dead organic material.

You may be wondering… are there greater water boatmen? Indeed there are, although they are actually a different group of insects (Notonecta) and are usually referred to as ‘backswimmers’. As the name suggests, these species swim upside down, so their air bubbles are more visible from above. This can make them appear silver in colour, but they are actually light brown with reddish eyes. Unlike most of their ‘lesser’ relatives, backswimmers eat small insects, fish, and crustaceans.

There is also the lesser or pygmy backswimmer (Plea minutissima) and several pygmy water boatmen (Micronecta). Despite being just 2-3mm long, one of the latter is famously noisy. The males of many water boatmen species ‘sing’ by stridulating, which means rubbing their legs along ridges on their bodies. Micronecta scholtzi has been recorded at

99.2 decibels – that’s as loud as a car horn! Thankfully, water absorbs most of the sound, but you may still hear it if you listen carefully.

Insects like water boatmen are a key part of our chalk stream ecosystems. As food for fish, bats, birds, and amphibians, these small creatures are crucial to the health of many other animals. If you’d like to help protect their chalk stream homes, check out the Watercress and Winterbournes scheme at hiwwt.org.uk/winterbournes Our work is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Free Online Talk

The Plight of Hampshire’s Chalk Stream Salmon

26th September at 7pm, Online Atlantic salmon are some of our most iconic chalk stream fish. As their numbers decline, we explore the fragile future of this amazing species.

Book your ticket at hiwwt.org.uk/ winterbournes

History special:

Why did Queen Mary I come to the South Downs?

What is the link between Queen Mary I of England and the South Downs? Anooshka Rawden, Cultural Heritage Lead for the National Park, explains in this illuminating article.

The South Downs landscape has witnessed many historical events. One of which was the procession of a queen to a controversial wedding…

After a life that had involved triumph, tragedy and loss, including being barred from seeing her mother, repeated periods of ill health and a declaration of illegitimacy, Mary I became queen of England in 1553 after the triumphant defeat of John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland, who had attempted to established Lady Jane Grey as successor to Edward VI.

Mary, aged 37, was to ride into London in August 1553 officially as Queen, and more so, as queen regnant, or queen in her own right. She had been backed by Catholics and Protestants, people whose loyalty was to the settlement outlined in her father’s will. However, her immediate actions on becoming queen indicated a strong mission to reverse the Protestant policies of her half-brother, and despite a proclamation to calm fears and religious tensions by stating that people would not be compelled to follow Catholicism, her actions focused on the reinstatement of Catholic churchmen and the enforcement of Catholicism. Although history has not been kind to her, Mary was pioneering – at her coronation in October 1553 she wore the full regalia of a male monarch, and in April 1554 her parliament passed the Act for Regal Power, which ensured the authority of the crown could be held equally by men and women, enshrining in law the equal status of royal power, regardless of gender.

By Tudor standards, Mary in her late 30s sat in a risky position. Unmarried and without a child to act as her heir risked her both her security and

her legacy. In looking for a potential husband, Charles V (who himself had been ‘engaged’ to Mary when he was 22 and she was six) suggested his son, Philip, the Spanish prince who was to become Philip II of Spain (the nemesis of Elizabeth I, against whom he launched an Armada). Mary was enthusiastic about the match – her mother had been a princess of the Spanish royal family, and Spain was a strong, Catholic power. Although not a popular proposal, the marriage contract was negotiated so as to ensure favourable status to England, preserving Mary’s status as queen regnant, and ensuring Spanish influence in England was held in check. However, a number of her councillors objected, and a rebellion broke out in response.

The wedding was to be held on St James’ Day (25 July) in 1554. The date was significant, as St James was revered in Spain. Winchester Cathedral was to be the venue, and both monarchs had a journey to make to get there – Philip arriving by boat at Southampton, and Mary journeying from London. Both the Spanish Prince and the English Queen processed towards their wedding day along routes that included parts of what is now the South Downs National Park. Mary’s route from London brought her down through Farnham and into the Park, as she followed a route from Alton down to Bishop’s Waltham, cutting through what is now the A272 connecting Winchester and Petersfield. Philip’s route took him from Southampton up to Winchester. The weather was sadly not the best, with reports of

heavy rain, at one point necessitating the Spanish prince to borrow “a cloak and cap” from a knight, having come unprepared for the English weather. It’s notable that in the Spanish accounts of the wedding, the rain is mentioned throughout. Mary and Philip met for the first time only two days before their wedding. He did not speak English, so they spoke in Spanish, French and Latin.

Despite the weather, the processions to Winchester and the wedding itself would have been spectacular to witness, especially as Mary’s nuptials were the first publicly visible royal wedding in some time. Mary is said to have travelled with her officials, clergy, council and “a good number of well-dressed ladies venerable and young, although not especially beautiful”. The clothing, ceremony and grandeur of the wedding were described in detail by Adres Munoz, part of the Spanish entourage, who witnessed the wedding itself:

“Then the Bishop of Winchester said Mass with all solemnity; and the happy Queen kept her eyes all the while on a consecrated crucifix which was on the Altar, and thus they were married.”

After the wedding, the couple along with the wedding party moved from Winchester via a route now marked by the M3 towards Basing House, near Basingstoke.

The marriage was clearly a joy to Mary, who soon believed she had become pregnant. But it was to become a source of sorrow. Philip became King of Spain in 1556, after which he spent most of his time outside England, returning briefly between March and July 1557 (mainly to persuade Mary to support a Spanish War against France). Twice Mary experienced the symptoms of pregnancy that resulted in no birth, and by November 1558 she was ill, weak and facing the prospect of her protestant half-sister, Elizabeth – daughter of the woman who had ousted her mother – succeeding her. History has often derided Mary, but her accession was against the odds, and she twice defeated rebellions against her rule; she equalised royal power regardless of gender and allied with a powerful state in an attempt to bolster England on the global stage. History has not been kind to Mary but her journey to Winchester was probably among the greatest personal joys of her reign.

Enjoyed this story? Sign up to the South Downs News, the monthly newsletter for the National Park at: /www.southdowns.gov.uk/join-thenewsletter/

Mary I, aka Mary Tudor, aka “Bloody Mary”, who ruled from July 1553 until her death in 1558. (Licensed iStock image)

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Great Hall, Winchester

Winchester Castle was built by William FitzOsbern in 1067, in the south-west corner of Winchester’s city walls. Winchester was then one of the most important cities in England and the castle became a major royal fortress, protected in stone and used as a residence by visiting monarchs. It played a role in the civil wars of the Anarchy in the 12th century and both the First and Second Barons’ Wars in the 13th.

Henry III invested huge sums in the castle, building stronger walls and turning the interior into a luxurious palace. The Great Hall was built between 1222 and 1235. It was 31 m (111 ft) by 15.5 m (55 ft) across, with a central nave lined with marble columns, and aisles and windows on either side forming bays.

The site continued to be used as a royal residence until a fire gutted the royal apartments of the palace in 1302. The required repairs were so extensive that it took a long time for them to be completed; instead royal visitors to Winchester would stay at the Bishop's Palace, nearby Wolvesey Castle. It was around this time that the seat of power started shifting towards London.

The Great Hall has been altered and adapted over the centuries. When first built, the roofs of the aisles were lower, and each of the windows had a circular light above it; the roof of the main hall was more steeply pitched. The hall was entered by a main door on the north side. There would have been a dais for the king and queen at the west end, with a large painting of the Wheel of Fortune above them, and the hall would have been elaborately painted, including a large, circular map of the world on the wall opposite the royal couple.

The hall was adapted between 1348 and 1349, giving the roof its current form. There were originally service doors in the eastern bay, since blocked, which led to the buttery, pantry, saucery and great kitchen. The main door was blocked up in 1789, and a new door and porch constructed in the central bay, which was rebuilt again in 1845. It was reroofed by T. H. Wyatt during his work in the 1870s, and

restored once again between 1975 and 1976. The roof was renovated again in 1996.

Prominently displayed on the wall at the west of the hall is the Round Table, also known as “King Arthur’s Round Table”. It was probably constructed in the 13th century, early in the reign of King Edward. Edward was interested in the legends of King Arthur and may have first used it in 1290, when he held a huge dinner at Winchester in an Arthurian style. Initially the table was placed on the floor of the hall, before being hung on the east wall in 1348, and then moved to its current location in 1873.

The table is 5.5 m (18 ft) in diameter, weighting 1,200 kg (1 ton 4 cwt), and constructed of 121 pieces of oak. It would have originally been unpainted, but was then decorated with its current design by Henry VIII in 1516, to show King Arthur and the names of 24 of his knights, with Arthur resembling Henry himself. The table was repainted again to the same design by William Cave in 1789.

On 17 November 1603 Sir Walter Raleigh went

on trial for treason for his supposed part in the Main Plot (to remove King James I from the throne) in the converted Great Hall. The castle was used by the Royalists in the English Civil War, eventually falling to Parliamentarians in 1646, and then being demolished on Oliver Cromwell's orders in 1649. Later in the 17th century, Charles II planned to build the King's House adjoining the site, commissioning Christopher Wren to design a royal palace to rival the Palace of Versailles, but the project was abandoned by James II. It was in The Great Hall that, in the aftermath of the Monmouth Rebellion, Judge Jeffreys held the Bloody Assizes on 27 August 1685 the accused at the Winchester assizes included Alice Lisle who was condemned to death for harbouring fugitives.

The Great Hall was also the home of the Winchester Assizes and, in 1954, another notorious trial took place there, when Edward Montagu, Michael Pitt-Rivers and Peter Wildeblood went on trial and were convicted of charges of having committed specific acts of homosexual indecency.

The Great Hall was also the venue of the trial and conviction of six members of the Provisional IRA, in 1973, for the Old Bailey bombing. The Great Hall ceased to be the venue for criminal trials after the Winchester Law Courts were erected, just to the east of the Great Hall, in 1974.

Editorial of this page is licensed under under CC BY-NC 2.0 Other sources Wikipedia

Plan of the Great Hall; A – former service doorway; B – site of dais; C – main hall; D –eastern entrance; E – former service doorway

Chicken, Bacon & Mushroom Pie

INGREDIENTS

1 packet of ready rolled puff pastry or short crust if you prefer.

1/2* cooked chicken (or turkey)

1 * leek, chopped (or onion)

1/2 * packet of smoked streaky bacon cut into little pieces

25g* sliced mushrooms

1 vegetable stock cube dissolved in 1 cup of water

1/2 cup milk

28g* plain flour

15g butter and a little oil (vegetable or olive)

*available from Hampshire Farmers’ Markets

METHOD

Strip carcass of chicken, cutting meat into large pieces. If you prefer you can buy uncooked boneless chicken but you would need to pre cook it at this stage.

Saute leek (or onion), bacon and mushrooms in the butter and oil. When soft, add the flour. Next, add stock, stirring continuously then add the milk so that the sauce is rich and creamy. If the sauce is a little thick, add more liquid.

Add the pre cooked chicken, and stir carefully until meat is completed coated and empty contents into a large pie dish. Again if you prefer to make this like a more traditional pie you can line the pie dish with the rolled out short crust pastry before putting in the filling.

Cover with pastry, making a vent in the pie top, and brush with milk. Bake in oven on a high temperature (200C/400F/gas 6) for around 25mins or until golden.

Tip: With the stockcube and bacon, there is no need for extra seasoning however, you could substitute some of the stock with a little leftover white wine.

SEPTEMBER HAMPSHIRE FARMERS MARKETS

Petersfield - Sun 1st, Romsey - Sun 1st, Hamble - Sat 7th, Alresford - Sat 7th, Winchester - Sun 8th, Alton - Sat 14th, Southsea - Sun 15th, Emsworth - Sat 21st, Ringwood - Sat 28th, Winchester - Sun 29th For more information visit: www.hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk

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

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

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

Visit Town & Country

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

Telephone: 01489 536187

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

Winchester Half Marathon Curtis Museum & Allen Gallery

The Winchester Half Marathon is a beautiful course that starts and finishes in the centre of Winchester outside the Guildhall. Experience the very scenic route through the idyllic setting of the countryside that takes in landmarks such as St Catherine’s Hill, Winchester Cathedral and King Alfred the Great.

The half marathon covers a distance of 13.1 miles and is on roads. The highest elevation during the run is 281m and you will experience Hampshire's beautiful scenery. This years event will be held on the 22nd September 2024.

What do I get in my entry?

Awesome Finishers medal, Water stations around the course, Fully Signed Route, Incredible experience you won't forget, Chip timing, Medical support, City centre start and finish (easier access and facilities, with great views for your friends and family), Live online results. To sign up and take part visit: www.winchesterhalf.co.uk

Winchester Virtual Run

Our virtual Winchester Running event can be completed anywhere at any time. They can be completed at your own pace and are a great way to challenge yourself at home and work towards a goal! We are offering virtual events for a Half Marathon distance. Our virtual challenge is only £8 and you will receive one of our 2024 Winchester Half Medals in the post! T-shirts can be purchased for an additional fee and posted as well. Entry for this year's virtual run is now closed.

Medal Discounts

We are delighted to announce our medal discount scheme available to all Winchester Half medal holders! All medal holders can benefit from a range of discounts from local businesses in Winchester, visit the website for a complete list. To get involved and claim your discounts please show your 2024 Winchester Half medal.

Team Challenges

Training with a team or group has been proven to keep you better on track and help provide you motivation to train for your team challenge. There are plenty of other ways to get your team involved too – If you’ve dug your bikes out of the shed, taken up running or fancy a good team building day out rather than virtual drinks – check out our Team Entry options on our website. You can run, cycle, sail or even do your first Triathlon as a team!

Volunteering at Winchester Half Marathon

Our volunteers at the Winchester Half Marathon are called the Win City Marshals because their smiles, cheering and support makes every runner feel like they are winning! Our Win City Marshal roles vary from cheering and clapping runners around the route, to handing out water or welcoming our runners back across the Finish Line with a well earned medal and fantastic Finisher tee!

There are plenty of options for all to get involved. Our event runs with approximately 300 volunteers every year, so we need you to get involved. To sign up for next year visit: www.winchesterhalf.co.uk/ volunteering-mile-makers

Funding success for the Allen Gallery

Announcement from Hampshire Cultural Trust - We’re thrilled that the second phase of our ambitious project to transform the Allen Gallery into a thriving community, heritage and cultural hub can now forge ahead this autumn, after we successfully secured £1.78 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, as well as an additional £85,000 from East Hampshire District Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy. This project has been in the making since 2018, and six years later, thanks to the hard work of volunteers and staff from across the trust, and with the backing of our fantastic funders, our plans will soon be turned into reality – we can’t wait to get started!

September in the Gallery - Ukranian Season of Photography and Artworks

"Unbowed: Ukranian Stories" the Photography of Natalia Sharomova

13-20 September in the Main Gallery. Natalia fled Ukraine with her two children. She says "This photo project is about gentle and resolute women. These are not only our stories. I believe they can support and inspire others not to give up, even if you have lost everything."

"Genesis of Creation" - Paintings, graphics, ceramic and mosaics by Olga Borysova, Mariya Borysova and Irina Borisova 21 Sept - 01 October in the Main Gallery. Irina is a professional Ukranian-American artist. FREE entry, all artworks for sale.

In the Cafe area - Olga Borysova - Watercolour views of Alton and the surrounding area FREE entry, artworks for sale, photography not for sale. In the Cafe area - Olga Borysova - Watercolours as above.

Documentary -"20 Days in Mariupol" Saturday 14th September, opens 6.30 for 7pm. (The licence fee to show this has been kindly met by Giles Lock MD of Top Print - many thanks).

The Friends of the Curtis Museum & Allen Gallery

Will be holding their AGM on Thursday 12th September at 7.30pm. Followed by a Garden Party in the Allen Gallery Garden. Visitors welcome. Donations invited.

Opening Times and Details

Tuesday to Sunday - Curtis 10am – 4.30pm. Allen 10.30 – 4pm Tel: 01420 82802 www.hampshireculture.org.uk/curtis-museum www.hampshireculture.org.uk/allen-gallery

£3,000 PCM

YOUR MARKET-LEADING LETTINGS & ESTATE AGENTS RECENTLY SOLD TO LET

£3,000 PCM

£5,000 PCM

Since the beginning of the year, our Jewry Street lettings and sales teams have observed a strong demand from families eager to relocate to Winchester.

We have let 145 properties and agreed sales on a further 159 homes in and around Winchester, according to Rightmove statistics (1st January to 14th August).

With the Bank of England’s recent reduction of the base rate to 5.0%, we anticipate continued growth in the local property market, providing an excellent opportunity for those considering a move.

As your market leading lettings and estate agents, we would love to talk to you about any possible home move you are thinking about. Our team of experts from Winchester are on-hand to answer any questions you may have, with discretion. Please do not hesitate to contact us on 01962 830880 (sales) or 01962 830881 (lettings).

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

ST GILES HILL, WINCHESTER

CENTRAL WINCHESTER WINCHESTER

PITT, WINCHESTER

SHAWFORD, WINCHESTER

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

We Are Selling... Are You?

S i n c e w e l a u n c h e d j u s t u n d e r t h r e e y e a r s a g o , w e h a v e a g r e e d s

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

E x t r a c t s o f s o m e o f t h e r e v i e w s w e r e c e i v e d r e c e n t l y i n c l u d e :

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

w i l l b e h o n e s t a n d t e l l y o u w h a t y o u n e e d t o h e a r , n o t j u s t w h a t y o u w a n t t o h e a r T h i s h e l p e d s m o o t h o u t w h a t w a s a d i f f i c u l t t r a n s a c t i o n B e f o r e a p p o i n t i n g a n e s t a t e a g e n t I u r g e y o u t o s p e a k t o N o n y f i r s t ”

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

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

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 0 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