Life in Haslemere by Life Magazines

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

Your local community lifestyle magazine Covering: Haslemere and surrounding areas including Beacon Hill, Chiddingfold, Fernhurst, Grayshott, Hindhead, Liphook

Local Heroes

Rita Bicknell, a great servant to the community

Weddings

Where to buy wedding clothes locally

Sport

Ladies cricket at the Haslemere Club

Local Businesses, Eating Out, Gardening, Property, Fitness, Health, and the Arts

Contents

Contents Inside Life in Haslemere this issue ... 4

Welcome News Chamber Awards 2007; Lythe Hill reopens; 6 Post Office petition

Profile Local MP Jeremy Hunt talks to Lucy Coates Local Business Featuring Applegarth Farm Shop, 10 Holly Park, Enchantment, and Ultimate Vision Village Voices Life in Fernhurst, by Lucy Coates

Weddings Get them to the churchâ&#x20AC;Ś in style

Eating out Jack's Wine Bar, Ma Brasserie

Local heroes Rita Bicknell, angel of the community

Health Haslemere Dental Centre, by Nick Keith

Gardening Tips for April and May, by Chris Rawlings

A Week In The Life Ofâ&#x20AC;Ś wine merchant Richard Royds

Fitness Chill out at Champneys Forest Mere, 28 with Gareth Gammon Music Hindhead Music Centre, by Lucy Coates

Property Beacon Hill in the spotlight, by Nick Keith

Sport Haslemere Cricket Club, by Jo Morley

Arts Diary What's on in April and May

Competition Your chance to win a fantastic prize 38 at Champneys Useful contacts Haslemere and the surrounding area

Editor: Nick Keith

nick@lifemags.co.uk

Sub-editors: Lucy Coates and Sarah Parson Creative director: Andy Burke Art director: Karen Holloway Advertising manager: Caroline Warne Marketing executive: Cat Jarman

lucy@lifemags.co.uk

andy@navigate-design.com studio@navigate-design.com caroline@lifemags.co.uk cat@navigate-design.com

Marketing & production director: Gareth Gammon Publisher: Anthony Parson

gareth@navigate-design.com tp@lifemags.co.uk

Contributors in this issue: Lucy Coates, Gareth Gammon, Nick Keith, Jessica Moon, Jo Morley, Chris Rawlings, Richard Royds Designed & produced by: www.navigate-design.com

LIFE MAGAZINES LIMITED 22 High Street, Petersfield, GU32 3JL Tel: 01730 235669 www.lifemags.co.uk email: info@lifemags.co.uk

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

Welcome

Welcome P

illars of the community take pride of place in the third issue of Life in Haslemere. And ‘pride of place’ goes to

Rita Bicknell. She is a real Haslemere treasure and our “angel of the community” (see page 20), but like many genuinely worthy people she is modest. We had to twist her arm before she agreed to be interviewed featured. Born in Yorkshire, Rita moved south in her teens, to work at a home in Hindhead for children with special needs, and later at other children’s homes. She married Frank Bicknell, a local man, and they had two sons. Soon she noticed that there was a need for a community nursery school, so she started one with a friend and it prospered. When Rita retired some 30 years later she was surprised to be awarded an MBE in 2004 for her services to the community. Another servant of the community is our local MP, Jeremy Hunt. We spent a day in March shadowing him in the constituency (pages 8 and 9) and found him hard-working and good-humoured. We include our usual pot pourri of business profiles – Applegath, Holly Park, Ultimate Vision, and Enchantment. You can also enjoy seasonal sensations with a special weddings feature (pages 16 and 17); gardening tips (page 24);

The front cover photo depicts Jeremy Hunt campaigning to keep the Royal Surrey Hospital open - see page 8 to find out more

and news of cricket in Haslemere creaking back into life (page 34). With further coverage of eating out, health, fitness, music, and the arts, we hope there is something for everyone in this edition. In our own modest way, Life in Haslemere also has aspirations to serve the community!

Nick Keith

Distribution List Nobbs Newsagents, High Street,

Grayshott Spa

Haslemere

Applegarth Farm Shop, Grayshott

Georgian House Hotel, Haslemere

Londis Stores, Headley Down

Hammonds Newsagents,

Martins Newsagents, Headley

Haslemere Station

Passfield Post Office

Tesco, Weyhill

The Co-op, Liphook

The Co-op, Weyhill

Gables Newsagents, Liphook

DeVere Branscombe Place

Old Thorns, Liphook

Editor

Devil's Punchbowl, Hindhead

Forest Mere, Liphook,

nick@lifemags.co.uk

Royal Parade Stores, Hindhead

General Wine Company, Liphook

Jaycees Foodstore, Beacon Hill

The Post Office, Fernhurst

life in HASLEMERE : JUNE - JULY 2007

Tesco Express, Grayshott

Lythe Hill Hotel, Kingsley Green

Deadline for copy MAY 4, 2007

Village Post Office, Grayshott

Cee Gees Village Store, Camelsdale

Grayshott Pottery

Chiddingfold Post Office

Life Disclaimer Life in Haslemere is published by Life Magazines Ltd.The views or facts expressed in the content of the of the magazine editorial or advertising are not necessarily those of the editor or Life Magazines Ltd. nor do they accept responsibility for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions or any legal implications arising thereof. Life Magazines Ltd. retains © copyright over the content. Any material submitted to the publishers is done so at the senders risk and may or may not be returned, and may be subject to editing without notice prior to publication. Life Magazines Ltd. does not necessarily endorse any of the businesses or services featured in this magazine.

News Update

Haslemere Chamber Business Awards 2007

Rural Post Office Petition

t this time of the year, we

don’t want companies to be

Grayswood Computer

are overcome with awards.

bashful, we want to hear about

Services).

If it’s not the Golden Globes, it’s

what they are good at and why

the Brit Awards or Oscars. In

they excel.”

early March Haslemere

The 2007 Business Awards

Winners will be awarded an attractive glass trophy and also benefit from PR and

Chamber of Trade joined the

scheme is organised by

recognition. The Awards are

throng by launching its annual

Chamber committee members:

open to members of Haslemere

business awards at a

Amanda Baker, of Alan Baker

Chamber of Trade and the

champagne reception for over

Flooring; Simon Labrow, of

winners will be announced at

60 Haslemere businesses at the

Labrow Limited; and Arya

the Chamber’s Annual Dinner

Georgian House Hotel.

Ingvorsen. There are six

Dance on 27 April 2007, at

Chamber President Arya

different categories that

Lythe Hill Hotel and Spa. Simon Labrow said: “It is

Ingvorsen said: “We have so

Chamber members can enter,

many excellent, inspiring

each sponsored by a local

going to be good for Haslemere

businesses in the Haslemere

business (and one by Waverley

business in general to look at

area that we decided that we

Borough Council). The

and be inspired by local

really ought to recognise and

categories range from ‘Best

examples of excellence that

celebrate this. We are therefore

New Business’ (sponsored by

these awards highlight’.

launching six business

The Marketing Forge) to ‘Most

To enter the Awards please

categories that we want local

Proactive Business in The

contact Arya Ingvorsen at

businesses to apply for. We

Community’ (sponsored by

01428 658455, or email:

illions of people in the UK rely on Post Offices for vital services, yet more than 4,000 have closed since 1997. At the end of March, Jeremy Hunt MP presented a ‘Save our rural Post Offices’ petition to the House of Commons. The petition, organised by

Witley and Hambledon Conservative Councillors Adam Taylor-Smith and Elizabeth Cable, was signed by over 600 local people. It shows the strength of feeling about the proposed closures of local Post Offices. The strategy outlined by the Government is for a further 2,500 closures. Opponents reckon that the Government has failed to acknowledge the

Beef fit for a prince L ower Roundhurst Farm,

to visit Britain and see the

happens on a living farm over

on Tennyson’s Lane near

quality of British livestock.

the seasons, from dealing with

Lower Roundhurst Farm’s

harsh winter conditions to the

place as a premier source for

beef has won first prize in the

arrival of spring and new life.

organic beef in Sussex.

annual Sussex Cattle Society

Camelsdale School Head

The farm’s award-winning

Large Herds Competition. It

Teacher Mrs Palmer said: “It’s

Sussex beef has been chosen

was also highly commended

fantastic to see life on a farm –

for an event hosted by the

in the Haslemere Food

showing also the importance

Haslemere, has sealed its

Prince of Wales at Clarence

Festival sausage competition

of green and sustainable living

House to celebrate the best of

with a beef and fresh chilli

in everyday life.”

British Beef. Its beef will be

version, the only organic

prepared by expert chef James

entrant.

Martin for an audience of top

The farm is committed to

The Farm Gate Shop is open on Fridays and Saturdays, offering organic meats, eggs,

restaurateurs, meat buyers

education about sustainability

vegetables and homemade

and supermarket heads from

and organic farming, and has

cakes.

the seven major markets for

a new partnership with

British beef across Europe.

Camelsdale First School in

Contact: 01428 656455.

The event is designed to be a

Haslemere. Children to visit

www.roundhurstfarm.com

springboard for foreign buyers

the farm and experience what

importance of the Post Office to those living in rural areas or the difficulties vulnerable groups have in accessing what is often the centre point of the community. Adam Taylor-Smith said: “The Government needs to understand the importance of the social role played by Post Offices in villages like the ones in Waverley. In rural areas, when the local post office closes, often the last shop in the village closes as well. The Government must take steps to give Post Offices a sustainable future, including giving sub-postmasters greater freedoms to run their business. Jeremy Hunt profile, page 8

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

Lythe launch described as classic contemporary, with bespoke furniture and soft furnishings in a palette of red, grey and black. Highlights are the BFCA (British Contract Furniture Association) award-winning armchairs inspired by the era of Lythe Hill’s manager David Armstrong with the Mayor Brian Howard at the launch of the re-styled public areas

big ocean liners and the utramodern Ingo Maurer Yayaho hanging lighting system. Brian Howard recalled Lythe

he Mayor of Haslemere,

Hill Hotel’s close association

Brian Howard, was on

with the business community

hand to cut the ribbon at the

over many years. The

launch of the newly revamped

Haslemere Chamber of

Lythe Hill Hotel & Spa in

Commerce held its first

February. Around 100 guests

meeting there in 1988.

attended the champagne

David Armstrong, Lythe Hill’s

reception to mark the re-

general manager, said: “We now

opening of the hotel’s public

have the quality facilities to

areas and 31 of the guest

match the quality personal

rooms. They have undergone a

service we provide. I want

£1m restyling by award-

Haslemere to be proud of the

winning French designer,

hotel and I hope the residents

Georges Karam.

of Haslemere feel it is an asset

The hotel’s new look is

New season at Blush

indsey Lunn, owner and

clothes and fabulous

manager of Blush

occasion and evening wear.

boutique, has a passion for

Labels include: The Perfect

clothes and for making

White Shirt Company, Oui,

women feel great about their

Bandolera, The Masai

wardrobes.

Clothing Company, Yulin,

Before buying Blush in

Ochre, Pulls, and Betty

Summer 2006, Lindsey

Jackson, to name just a few. A

provided a personal

select range of jewellery and

shopping, style and colour

bags are also available.

consultation service. So the

Lindsey and her team pride

opportunity to acquire Blush

themselves on the relaxed

was just what she was looking

atmosphere at Blush. They

for.

are happy to help putting

After refurbishing the shop, Lindsey carefully selected her

specific outfits together. And they offer style and

first collection for Autumn/

colour consultations. Are you

Winter. This was a roaring

wearing the right shapes (and

success, drawing customers

sizes) for you? Do the colours

from Haslemere, and beyond.

you wear complement your

Each season’s collection is

skin tone? Style and colour

designed to encompass

analysis can take place at

everything a woman needs in

your own home, or in the

her wardrobe – from

shop, and allow you to get the

comfortable but chic casual

most out of your wardrobe.

wear, to fantastic work

Contact: Blush 2 High Street,

to the town.”

Fund raising climb

Gift wrapping

‘Spend and Win’ shopping

positive changes taking place in

incentive in Beacon Hill by

the village, such as: the

local traders rewards shoppers

installation of new play

while pavement and signage

equipment in the children’s

wo local people plan to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in order to raise £20,000 for Great Ormond Street Hospital to get a new cardiac theatre which will include all the latest technology to assist surgeons and doctors both share knowledge (through the video conferencing equipment), and provide the best care, in the cleanest possible environment for their patients. Jenny Alexander explained, “We are training hard already and would be extremely grateful for anything people feel they might be able to contribute – whether that be as individuals or businesses. The Georgian House Hotel have given us free membership for 9 months so that we can

train there which is really fantastic and goes to show that anything you can offer really helps so please do get in touch with us.” If you would like to help them raise money in any way, such as, organising a mufty day at your office, having a coffee morning, doing a fun run, or by giving a donation, please do not hesitate to contact them for more details. Robert Bennett & Jenny Alexander www.justgiving.com/benne ttandjenny 57a Lion Lane, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 1JF

works are under way in the

playground, seating, new bins

village centre.

and a noticeboard; plus a new

Every time a customer makes

website for local people and a

a purchase from one of the 21

walks leaflet that will cover the

businesses taking part, their

area’s Golden Valley.

name has been put into a hat. On 2 April, a name was being

The ‘Spend & Win’ prizes up for grabs in this first event have

drawn, with the winner

been donated by the 21

receiving the gifts on display in

participating businesses. They

Hindhead Furnishings.

range from a meal out, to

After winning SEEDA funding,

chocolates and vouchers for

work began in Beacon Hill last

fresh produce, wine, home

year, with Surrey County

wares and items for pets.

Council Highways Division

Jacqueline Barber, from the

installing new street lighting

Beacon Hill Focus Group, said:

and a long-awaited zebra

“We have a great little shopping

crossing outside the school.

area here and have a wonderful

Over the next 13 months,

free car park just round the

Haslemere Initiative, in

back. We just need shoppers to

association with Beacon Hill

give us a go!”

Focus Group, will see further

Profile

No time (to hunt) for lunch Local MP Jeremy Hunt shows Lucy Coates how he spends a typical Friday in his constituency. College and meet the

Jeremy has a key link with an

headmaster, David Adelman,

orphanage out in Kenya and

who shows us the new drama

visits three or four times a year

centre being built and the new

to take some children – who are

sports facilities, which have

often afflicted with HIV/AIDS –

been finished recently. The

to see the sea for the first time.

visit, on Comic Relief red nose day, brings a smile to my face.

He says, “This is a really important part of my life as it

Both Headmaster and MP feel

has nothing to do with

it proper to wear their huge red

publicity or promoting the

noses in front of the students.

party - it is something I do for

This means that conversation is

me which I hope the children

rather stunted as they battle to

enjoy and get as much from as I

keep them on and discuss

do.”

important issues in rather uncharacteristically nasal voices. The visit ends with a warm

We discuss the possibilities of actually providing help to African countries, rather than just relief, and the realities to

discussion between Jeremy

be faced on continents in a

Hunt and David Adelman

similar position on the world

about the possibilities of

stage. Halfway through our

improving the education

conversation we arrive at the

system in this country. Two

drinks party.

clearly intelligent and clever men give as good as they get.

After a soft drink, a few nibbles and an impromptu

very Friday Jeremy Hunt

top. He explains later, “Anne

spends the day in his

Milton (Guildford MP) and I

to the Conservatives’ offices in

the beautiful country roads to

constituency, South West

largely set up the campaign to

Hindhead to say goodbye to a

Amesbury School who are

Surrey (which includes

save the Royal Surrey but now it

very dear member of staff who

celebrating the last day of a

Haslemere and Hindhead). “It

is important to keep

is retiring after many years’

reading week. We are welcomed

is really nice to come down

supporting the campaign even

service. “I started out as

into the dining room where

from Westminster, where I am

though we have handed over

somebody who no one knew

year six are all dressed up as

considered to be quite a new

the reins. It is also important

from Adam, but now after all

their favourite literary figures,

and young MP still and so am

that I can listen to updates

the leafleting and posters and

and waiting to hear Jeremy

not very well known,” he tells

before ploughing in with my

campaigns most of you are all

read from his favourite

me, “to a place where most

opinions.”

sick of the sight of me,” he

children’s story book, The Wind

jokes.

In The Willows.

people recognize me and I feel like a bit of a local celebrity.”

We had to leave the meeting a little early and went to Jeremy’s

Next on the agenda is a visit

Jeremy almost steals the show

speech, we are off again along

Although he does not do the

car, an extremely high-tech,

having bought a huge bouquet

voices of all the characters, he

sunshine outside the

energy-efficient, eco-friendly

of flowers, but some have

keeps the children on board by

Postgraduate Medical Research

model which allows him to

already been arranged and so

asking them to shout “MOLE!”

Building in Guildford, the stage

phone his PA without breaking

his colleague presents those

every time he read out the

for the latest meeting in the

the law. Or rather it should

too.

campaign to Save the Royal

have done. But Surrey’s

Surrey Hospitals. Various

beautiful rolling hills interfere

reminisce, or for an extensive

and the children are invited to

people from the local areas are

with the signal, and he is forced

speech, as we are soon on our

ask whatever they want.

there to discuss this serious

to admit to a business

way to a drinks party to meet

issue with passion and with a

colleague: “Perhaps my

new and prospective members

favourite animal is?” asks

determination to get things

campaign to prevent all the

of the Conservative party. Our

Jeremy. ‘Just William’ put up

done.

mobile phone masts being put

conversation moves from the

his hand and said, “My

up in the area was rather too

general day to day business of

favourite dog is a sheep dog

successful!”

being an MP to Africa – a topic

but I don’t think you have a

which greatly interests us both.

dog. If you did, you would

Our day begins in bright

Jeremy Hunt listens attentively, making the occasional note on his palm

We arrive at Godalming

There is little time to

name. Following the reading, there is a brief question time

“Can anyone guess what my

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

have a Labrador and you

not possible, he said so but

probably drive a Range Rover.”

suggested other options in a

There was a stunned and

straightforward and relaxed

amused silence before giggling

manner so that he might be as

erupted once more because

useful as possible in such a

Jeremy announced that his

small amount of time (each

favourite literary figure is Vicky

person/couple/group was

Pollard!

allotted ten minutes.)

As the pupils went for their

Jeremy Hunt’s hobbies

French class, Jeremy and I

include Lambada dancing. He

headed back to the Hindhead

admits he “needed serious

offices for a much needed cup

encouragement and

of tea before members of his

persuasion” to get him to his

constituency arrived to talk to

first few lessons but he has now

Jeremy. Each was courteously

been going for years. He recalls,

asked if it was alright if I

“I had a complete lack of hand-

listened in. This was where the

eye co-ordination and was

work began as people had

never good at sports really, so

come to ask Jeremy to act on

Lambada was a real challenge

their behalf, as their MP, on

but one which I enjoyed

matters gravely important to

working on. Now it helps to

them – whether they had voted

keep me fit and de-stress after

for him or not. Jeremy was honest and good at listening to all they had to say before asking what it was

Jeremy Hunt whilst campaigning for the Royal Surrey

one day of shadowing him, I

long days at Westminster.” It

morning meeting a week but is

was whilst dancing that he met

an extremely busy man what

was exhausted and very hungry

his girlfriend.

with that, his trips to Africa,

- we had not even stopped for

being Shadow Minister for

lunch.

Jeremy continues to run his

they would like him to do for

publishing company by

disabled people, and of course

them. If what they wished was

attending just one Monday

MP for South West Surrey. After

Life

Business

Applegarth Farm Shop

Putting on the Ritz A

new expansion and

in-law Estelle (finance and PR),

mouth watering

development scheme will

his brother Thomas (husbandry),

selection of home-

put this family business in

his father John (fruit and veg)

made dishes. At

exciting new territory for 2007.

and his mother Stephanie (a

tea-time visitors

William Benson told Life in

cordon bleu cook and teacher).

can feast on a

Haslemere about Applegarth’s

They have just recruited Andrew

Victorian-style

ambitious plans.

Perriton from Harrods to manage

cream tea, with

Applegarth has been run by the

the new delicatessen counter.

cucumber

Benson family for nearly 30 years

The exciting scheme aims to

sandwiches, scones with cream and

starting life as a pick your own

serve products in both the café

farm. In 2005, William Benson

and deli which have been

jam, and delicious

took over the helm from his

organically grown on the farm or

cakes, just as if they

parents in order to create a fresh

from small, local suppliers. “The

were in the Ritz

‘visitor experience’ at Applegarth.

farm shop will be all about a

Hotel, London.

With plans forging ahead for a

‘destination’ experience – from

new café and delicatessen

growing to buying and eating.

March, Applegarth was

opening in early May, plus a

We source as much of our

undertaking a week of blind

Monday to Saturday and 10-5 on

children’s play area and

produce as locally as possible”

tastings so that customers could

Sundays.

William and Rebecca Benson

At the end of

Summer to test this new growing and eating experience. Open 9-6

attractions including pot belly

says William. The farm shop

choose their favourite brands of

pigs, rabbits and goats there is a

stocks over 2000 products from

coffee, tea and preserves, which

Contact: Applegarth Farm Shop,

huge amount on offer.

free range meat, smoked goods,

will be sold in the shop and cafe.

Headley Road, Grayshott, Hants

William is helped inside and outside the farm shop by his wife Rebecca (marketing), his sister-

pickles, relishes to fine British cheeses. The fine food café will offer a

The farm shop in Headley Road, Grayshott, has to be well

GU26 6JL Tel: 01428 712777.

worth a visit this Spring and

Life

Holly Park Interiors

Clean lines development. Catherine had already been

magazines – such as Country

shops in Newcastle, her home

Homes and Interiors in July

city, and in Brighton. “I have

2006 – have kept Holly Park in

always been interested in

the public eye.

“and being in the fashion

the mood is mainly feminine –

stead for keeping a shop

“although we have plenty of

because both require a good

male customers,” she adds,

eye.”

“and they get help in making a

The style of Holly Park is

Jackson opened Holly Park

Now she and her husband live

They keep a seasonal feel to their stock and, Catherine adds,

business puts you in good

“New England, French,

as a dentist.

appearances in national

involved in retail with clothes

fabrics and interiors,” she says,

atherine Sack and Annie

article in You magazine.” Other

purchase if they need it.” So far they have resisted

Scandinavian, and clean,”

attempts by friends and fans to

Catherine explains. “We have

open new outlets in Newcastle,

put our heart and soul into this

Bath or anywhere else. With the

and I think that is why it is

help of four part-time staff they

successful.”

are content to enjoy a happy lot

Holly Park relies on word of

in Haslemere.

in 2001. They had both been

seven minutes from the centre

mouth and finds itself in

involved in the fashion industry

of the town, having spotted

magazines – sometimes

Contact: Holly Park, 4-6 West

and Catherine moved to

their cottage in Country Life.

unwittingly. “A lady visited us

Street, Haslemere, GU27 2AB

Haslemere from London in

Once settled in Haslemere an

from Norfolk and said she had

Tel: 01428 651087

1999 when her husband retired

interiors shop seemed a natural

seen the shop mentioned in an

Life

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

Business

Enchantment Jewellery

The Lady returns and modern pieces of jewellery

friend, Sheila will ask questions

along with many accessories

about personality, lifestyle and

such as Opika leather belts,

colouring so she can suggest

Italian handbags, sarongs with

the perfect piece.

matching shoes and beautiful

“The most important thing

Frank Usher parasols which

about Enchantment,” noted

ooze quality. She has recently

Sheila, “is that customers are

added some wonderful pieces

allowed to take as long as they

from Isabelle Langlois, Paris.

want browsing and can try on

Sheila continued, “I get a lot

as many pieces as they wish. I

of ladies coming in who have

am here to help ladies achieve

always played it safe when it

the look they are longing for. I

came to accessories and they

am a firm believer in dressing

heila Kirby (above) of

unaware of all the wondeful

are now ready to change. It is

to feel good which does not

Enchantment Jewellery in

accesories available.

such a pleasure to be able to

always mean wearing jeans and

help them choose exactly what

a comfy jumper. As one of my

Grayshott is a wonderfully

Sheila explained, “I saw such

enthusiastic and beautiful lady

beautiful things so I thought I

is appropriate and flattering,

recent customers told me, ‘I

who is passionate about

would take the plunge and set

rather than what they normally

overdress, rather than under

making women look and feel

up shop. I absolutely love it. I

would have sought.”

dress, and I do it for me!’”

great. She has had her image

can combine my knowledge

consultancy business in

about image with my passion

bring along their outfits so that

Contact: Enchantment

Headley Down for six years but

for beautiful designs.”

they can find a special piece

Jewellery, Privie House,

Sheila takes pride in the fact

Ladies are encouraged to

that really works with the

Headley Road, Grayshott,

company, Enchantment,

that she has something for

shape, colour and fabric.

Surrey GU26 6NF

because she felt ladies were

everyone offering traditional

Similarly, if you are buying for a

Tel: 01428 606039

was inspired to set up a sister

Life

Ultimate Vision Opticians

Spectacular products usband and wife team

to create an ambience of

Olindo and Lana Venturi

relaxation, with the feeling of a

Haslemere area but also from

(right) opened Ultimate Vision

boutique where we are on good

as far a field as Manchester.

in May 2006, having decided to

terms with our patients.”

set up their optical business

Olindo’s father originated

word of mouth from the

Their patients are aged from 3 to 93. They stress they can

earlier in the year. “We thought

from Bologna but Olindo is a

provide NHS prescription

Haslemere needed something

Haslemere man, born and

glasses for children with an

worldwide. Olindo says, “With

more upmarket from an optical

bred.

NHS voucher, aged 3 to 16.

our technology, we can scan

point of view,” Olindo says. They acquired the Old Barn

Olindo’s family are deeply involved in the optical

While providing a caring and

and trace your old frame,

dedicated service, Ultimate

which takes five minutes, and

China shop which stood in

business. After school he was

Vision aims to compete on

you can return a few days later

Petworth Road at the top of the

apprenticed to Bateman’s

price with the big name multi-

to have the your new lenses

High Street for some 70 years.

where his brother is a general

outlets. They are proud of their

fitted. So you don’t ever have to

Ultimate Vision prides itself

manager. His sister and other

knowledge of their brand

be without the original frame.” So Ultimate Vision can order,

on high quality brands and a

family members are also

products, including Nikon,

first class service, spending as

involved in Ultimate Vision but

Hoya, Essilor, Rodenstock, Tag

stock and fine-tune a truly

much time with patients as

the principal optometrist is Jill

Heuer and Zeiss. Lana added

‘spectacular’ range of products

they need. “Spectacles and

Bonham, and they use Peter

that they have many exclusive

– all with supreme care for the

contact lenses are like high-

Hills as a locum when

designs including the latest

client and attention to detail.

class clothes or shoes – a good

necessary. Between Olindo and

collection of Mykita range.

fit makes a huge difference,”

Jill they have over fifty years

Olindo explains.

experience.

“We are user friendly and aim

Business has come mainly by

They have a fully

Contact: Ultimate Vision, 5

computerised and networked

Petworth Road, Haslemere,

set-up, linked to suppliers

Surrey GU27 2JB

Life

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

Village Voices

Sealed Knot fire their muskets at the Fernhurst Furnace Open Day

Champion Community Fernhurst is about 10 minutes drive from Haslemere and boasts some lovely shops and local businesses with the bonus of free parking! Lucy Coates went to Fernhurst to find out more about its social life made famous by a television documentary in 2006 entitled Village Voices.

ernhurst is a large village

another, have a cup of

computer based lessons such

with organising the Revels are

with an even larger heart

something hot as well as check

as using spreadsheets,

also members of the Fernhurst

and sense of community based

their e-mails and learn new

beginners IT, surfing the

Society which is most active in

activities and initiative.

skills.

internet and e-mails, using

the area. “The Fernhurst

PowerPoint and computer

Society is a civic society which

two major non-religious

what the Fernhurst Centre is

filing. They also offer beginner,

has a key focus on local

festivals to which all are

able to provide with the help of

intermediate and advanced

history,” explained Christine

invited, and many bits and

Chichester District Council, the

French Conversation as well as

Maynard, the archive curator.

pieces in between.

25 volunteers who man it,

the popular Genealogy course

and the various tutors (who

which helps you understand

festival is the Fernhurst Revels.

also generally work for nothing)

the techniques and resources

eight years ago when Helen

Every year on the village green,

of their wide range of courses.

needed to find and read

Ouin inspired the group to

Throughout the year, there are

Perhaps the best known

Three years on, this is exactly

The emphasis on local history is still as firmly apparent as

The importance, relevance

census, certificates and parish

come together to create an

to enjoy the day together. No

and inspirational effects of the

records in your search to find

archive of Fernhurst’s past. This

one really knows why they are

centre were very clear when

your ancestors.

they did and received premises

called the Revels as essentially

interviewing local people. Not

many villagers of all ages gather

Overall, this is a lovely place

in the village hall in order to

this is a traditional May Day

an interview went by without

to meet for a hot drink and a

pool, house and catalogue all

celebration with maypole

someone mentioning the

natter as the Monday morning

their resources. As a result, they

dancing, stalls, and the

Centre: either they weren’t sure

coffee group HAGs (Housework

have a large array of

crowning of the newly elected

how to send me their

Avoidance Group) will tell

photographs, letters and newspapers dating back

May Queen selected from the

photos so they would pop into

you. Long may it inspire

local school. One lady from

the Centre and ask to be shown

volunteers to give up their time

hundreds of years and are

Fernhurst admitted to me that,

how, or for some other help.

each week.

available for all interested to

“You can literally eat your way

Indeed, perhaps the nicest

around, if nothing else!”

story was that Pauline Colcutt,

more about the courses offered,

Manager of the Fernhurst

pop into the Fernhurst Centre

history,” Ian Brown noted, “we

event is usually put towards

Centre, together, with three of

or contact them: telephone

also organise walks in the local

local causes and charities so

her colleages ,attended the

01428 641931, e-mail

countryside, talks and

why not keep an eye out for the

Centre’s Web Design course and

centre@fernhurst.net

presentations. The society is

this year’s revels on the

as a result designed and

<mailto:centre@fernhurst.net>

also a member of the British

Fernhurst Centre’s website and

launched the Fernhurst Centre

or website

Trust for Conservation

pop along to enjoy the village’s

website.

www.fernhurstcentre.org.uk

Volunteers because of our work

www.fernhurstcentre.org/.uk

with the environment in the

The money raised at this

friendly atmosphere? The Fernhurst Centre was

The Centre offers a number of

If you would like to find out

look at on Tuesday afternoons. “We are not only dedicated to

biodiversity projects.” These

classes throughout the year as

set up as a place in which

well as the use of their internet

Fernhurst Society

include garden bird watch,

people could meet with one

café. These include various

Many of those people involved

woodlands, hedges and verges

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

Christine Maynard in the Fernhurst Society Archives

surveys, land use and habitat

exclaimed, as others in the

mapping and setting up a

room cheered in agreement, “It

village orchard. Anyone of any age can join the society for an annual

is a truly wonderful day out and we hope that lots of people will come again this year as

subscription of £6 (£5 OAP, £1

well as encouraging those who

junior) which entitles members

have never been to come along

to the newsletters explaining

and enjoy themselves!”

up and coming events and

Much of the actual furnace

issues as well as the chance to

was back-filled in order to

meet new people in your local

preserve it but now owners,

community as well as take part

Robert and Carla, are

in it with more ease.

attempting to gain funding

If you would like to know

from the Heritage Lottery Fund

more about the archive or the

in order to have it conserved

Society please e-mail the

and the storm water controlled.

president, Peter Hudson on

Robin explained, “We have

fernhurst.society@btopenworld

quite large plans and many big

.com.

ideas but how many of them will actually happen is anyone’s

Fernhurst Furnace

guess.”

Another much anticipated day

The next Open Day will be held

is the open day at the Fernhurst

on September 8th and 9th and

Furnace. Robert and Carla

Robin recommends that you

Barnes invite all to come and

keep an eye out at the

have a look at the remains of a

Fernhurst Centre and in Life In

site of local ironworks that was

Haslemere for the details nearer

in action from circa 1600 to

the time or see details through

1776. The furnace, along with a

a link on the Fernhurst Society

multitude of other

website.

entertainments including musket and cannon firing,

Life In Haslemere will have a

battle re-enactments by the

focus on local businesses in

Sealed Knot group, roast lamb

Fernhurst as well as an

cooked on an open fire and

historical account of the local

many people dressed in

area in a future issue.

traditional outfits. Robin

Life

Weddings

Jay Tough, Lea Jerova (model organised by Deborah Stapleton), Julie Brooker of Coco’s Boutique, Roy Annible of Anthony Hirewear

Photograph taken by Amy Murphy-Watts at The Old Thorns Golf Centre also available as a stunning venue for a wedding 01428 725611

Get them to the church... in style The wedding season gathers pace again in the Spring, so we sent Jessica Moon on a mission to plan and buy her dream wedding using local outlets.

started a broad range of special

in Godalming. Anthony and his

occasion wear including

colleague Roy have 80 years

mother-of-the-bride designer

experience of menswear

pieces from elegant European

between them, Anthony having

countries: Parisian designer

set up his own business 12

Paule Vasseur’s shot silk range

years ago.

which all hang beautifully and

“Uniquely, we keep all our

are incredibly comfortable;

stock on the premises,”

Englishman Peter Martin’s

Anthony said, “so that

lovely range of two and three

gentlemen may try on the exact

piece outfits; and designs from

coat they will be wearing.” They

Italy by Sonja Fortuna and

stock morning suits (chest sizes:

Renato Nucci, each of which

20-60in), dinner jackets (chest

have their own style and

sizes: 22-56in), frock coats and

elegance.

90 different styles of waistcoat.

Julie at Coco said: “Finding a

Anthony said, “We have

hat to match one’s outfit is

received many compliments

often the hardest part of the

from our customers about our

shopping experience so we now

high standard of service,

have hats and fascinators in

presentation and professional

thirty different colours which

approach for which we are

Bridal wear

Amanda Wyatt, Charlotte

are available to hire or buy and

extremely proud.” One lady

he nearest bridal shop to

Balbier, Ellis Brials, Romantica

come with matching bags.”

even returned to the shop

Haslemere is Amaryllis

and Sincerity as well as Lawson

Bridalwear Ltd in Alton. This is

Designs headdresses and

of floaty silk dresses in various

father’s leg length to say ‘My

a beautiful, oak beamed shop

Elizabeth Dickens veils.

colours and sizes to suit any

father would like to know how

occasion. You will find them in

you know how long his legs are

Charlotte who offer a friendly

Mother of the bride

the Square at Grayshott for that

when you haven’t met him and

one-to-one service.

Hardly less important than the

perfect outfit for that special

not even he knows!’

run by Pat, Mavis, Maria and

KUDU has a great collection

having been asked to check her

bride’s gown is her mother’s

occasion. KUDU have a large

things about the shop is that we

outfit which is often the hardest

range of formal wear, including

have downstairs fitting rooms

thing to find and get right.

hats, shoes, fascinators and

There are many photographers

which ensure absolute privacy.

Fortunately, two lovely outlets

jewellery to complement any

in the local area, I met these

Brides have much needed space

specialise in mother-of-the-

outfit.

three at wedding fairs recently

Pat noted that “one of the best

Photography

and was won over by their

away from the prying eyes of

bride outfits: Coco’s Boutique in

the street outside.”

Haslemere and KUDU in

Menswear

friendliness, professionalism

Grayshott.

For the men, the best local

and skill.

They offer a wide range of dresses from designers such as

Coco’s Boutique has recently

place to go is Anthony Hirewear

Husband and wife team, Mark

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

outside Haslemere. They are unique for a number of reasons but perhaps the best is that they only hold one wedding a day so there is no chance of having to share with another bride. From May to October, they also offer the use of their marquee in the grounds free of charge which can dramatically Beautiful vintage china and teaware available to hire from Idyllic Days look out for a business profile in the next issue

and Sam of Mark Wayer

cut down costs. It is possible to have a Civil Marriage or Civil Partnership on the grounds with up to 150

Photography are keen to be

guests as well as an evening

unobtrusive during the day and

reception for the same number.

capture the atmosphere and

Also included in the price is a

emotion.

wedding co-ordinator to help

Mark told me: “We are creative, relaxed and

take some of the pressure off leading up to and on the day.

professional and are keen to let you enjoy your day trusting that we will take the perfect pictures without you having to pose for hours on end.” Amy Murphy-Watts specialises in creating the story of your day: from the bride getting ready to the first dance of the evening, in a beautifully finished album. She said “I am keen to provide atmospheric shots using black and white film, as well as the more traditional group shots and the negatives are given to you so reprints are hassle free.” The reportage focus for wedding photos is what thrills Peter Searight, of The Remarkable Studio, most about weddings. “I love capturing the subtle emotions at weddings which are always there but sometimes lost in the formal photographs. Mind you, my wife helps me out with the formal ones as she is very good at organizing groups of people so guests are never left waiting.” Venues De Vere Branksome Place is hidden away in 32 acres of

Contact: Anthony Hirewear: 23 Church St, Godalming, GU7 1EL Tel: 01483 414 042 Amaryllis Bridalwear Ltd: The Corner House, 29 Market Street, Alton, GU34 1HA Tel: 01420 80552 Branksome Place: Hindhead Road, Haslemere, GU27 3PN Tel: 0870 609 1141 Coco’s Boutique: 34-36 West Street, GU27 2AL Tel: 01428 661299 Deborah Stapleton: Tel: 01932 565622 Idyllic Days Vintage China: Tel: 01428 656267 Web: www.idyllicdays.com Jay Tough, MOC: Tel: 01483 825218 KUDU: 4 The Square, Grayshott, Hindhead, Surrey GU26 6LQ Tel: 01428 605354 Mark Wayer Photography: The Old Cycle Shop, Headley Road, Grayshott, GU26 6TZ Tel: 01428 605786 Web: www.markwayerphotography.co.uk Murphy-Watts Photography: Tel: 01428 725519 Web: www.murphywattsphotography.co.uk The Remarkable Studio: Tel: 01428 725520 Web: www.theremarkablestudio.com

wooded countryside just Life

Eating Out: Opening soon

Jack’s Wine Bar

Who ate all the pies?

explained Karen. “We have been helped so

something lighter, so I would

Garden Court restaurant

eat this for a working lunch

at Lythe Hill Hotel is now

rather than at home.

open for lunch serving a

His choice, which he insists must be made with short-

much from our

brasserie menu - and one

suppliers with

lucky Haslemere food lover

crust not puff pastry, will

choosing the

knows exactly what he’ll be

feature on the menu for a

wine list and

ordering.

month before another local

are now really

Neil and Karen Bowan

he newly refurbished

Local businessman Simon

diner will be asked to choose their favourite dish.

happy with it,

Labrow was given the chance

feeling we have

to put his favourite dish on

something for

the menu and he chose steak

available at lunchtime and features classics like French

The brasserie menu is

hile sitting enjoying a

everyone, whether that is

and mushroom pie. He

drink in Haslemere

champagne by the glass or a

explained: “It’s true that I’m

onion soup and lemon sole

about 18 months ago, Karen

bottle of French red.”

passionate about food. I’m

with caper burnt butter.

Bowen turned to her husband

Both key members of the

very keen on using local,

“There’s something to appeal

Neil and proclaimed, “This

Charter Fair, Neil and Karen are

seasonal produce. I chose

to all tastes,” said David

town really needs a wine bar.”

active in the community and

steak and mushroom pie

Armstrong. “These really are

have learnt from other local

because it’s traditional

everyone’s favourite dishes.”

that moment, this bright and

businesses. Neil explained, “We

comfort food – the sort of

friendly couple could not let it

want the bar to be a place in

thing which I enjoy, whereas

For more information:

go to waste. They started

which locals can meet friends

my wife would prefer

www.lythehill.co.uk

The idea was born and, from

looking for suitable premises,

in a relaxed, smoke-free

and eventually found 4 High

atmosphere with the same

Street but fought a battle in

faces behind the bar each time.

order to get changed the use

Both Clayton Jewellery and

class of this grade 2 listed

Sportslocker have been a real

building, complete with an

inspiration in that sense for us

original beam.

as they are both owner

Life

Ma Brasserie opens

managed, and it is that which

Loire Valley, they moved to

they are hoping to open at the

makes them such great places

the UK and opened Ma

end of April and were only

to shop.”

Brasserie seven and a half

Now though, it is all go as

given the keys in January of this

Karen concluded, “We have

years ago. Nelly cooks

year. Neil said, “It has been a

put so much effort into this

while Stephane is ‘front of

really busy time but we are

project and are really looking

house’.

really enjoying it. We have tried

forward to being open, and

to support local businesses in

meeting more people from in

launch a ‘Ladies only

the process too which has been

and around Haslemere who

evening” on Wednesdays,

great as we are only a short visit

have been needing somewhere

and hope that all women

away from all our colleagues:

to sit and have a glass of good

interested will contact

from our wine supplier to our

wine in a friendly yet exclusive

them.

builder and electricians.”

environment.”

Now they are looking to

A typical set menu is a

Running a wine bar together

vegetable soup to start and

does not seem to be the Jack’s Wine Bar, 4 High Street,

consultant and man who

Haslemere.

‘consults’ in the motor industry,

Email:

but they do not consider this a

info@jackswinebar.co.uk.

setback. “We have a very keen interest in wines but we don’t pretend to be experts,”

a Brasserie in Wey Hill

obvious career change for an IT

reopened in March with

the husband and wife team of

breast of guinea fowl with a mushroom and shallot cream sauce for the main course.

Stephane and Nelly Jacob still Life

in charge. They continue to

Ma Brasserie, Wey Hill,

offer “typical French cuisine”

Haslemere, Tel: 01428 642642.

for lunch and dinner.

Open: 12-2, and from 7pm

Having met in Saumur in the

onwards.

Life

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

Community Work

Angel of the local community Rita Bicknell was awarded an MBE for her services to the community but that hasn’t prevented her from giving up still more of her time for others.

go. I loved it there though I was

services to the community.

always grateful for my holidays

“You have to get nominated for

which I spent back up North.”

an MBE by about five people,”

Rita left The Grange to do her

parents of pupils who kindly

in Hindhead, which was then a

did this for me but also one or

residential nursery, and Sylvia

two people from the Action

went back to Yorkshire. Next,

Medical Research group – I

Rita decided that she wanted to

have been a member for 25

work with babies as she had yet

years. But it was all done in

to do this. So she went to work

secret so I had no idea what

at St. Luke’s Hospital maternity

was going on.

unit as a nursery nurse. It was while working there that Rita attended the Thursday

November, I found it was just like a dress rehearsal as I didn’t

where she met Frank Bicknell.

have time to take it all in and

Rita and Frank married in 1961

wished I could do it all over

in Yorkshire and she went to

again. I found it very hard to

work at Holly Ridge Residential

believe that I was there – let

Nursery, Shepherd’s Hill, a care

alone that I was deserving of

home for children.

receiving this honour. I felt sure

When her sons were born – 1966 – Rita focused her

that there must have been some mistake. “I was positive that I didn’t

attention on them. Meanwhile,

want the day to end so we went

Sylvia realised that she had also

to see The Lion King in the

fallen in love with a Haslemere

West End in the evening and

man, married him and moved

got the very last train home. It

back down South.

was a lovely, lovely day – one

Together, they noticed a need for a community nursery

“When I went down to London to receive the MBE in

night dances in Haslemere

Nigel in 1963 and Howard in

Nigel, Frank, Rita and Howard having received the MBE

she told me. “It was mainly

nursery training at Grey Gables

which I will never forget.” Receiving the MBE has not

school in the area. They found

stopped Rita from continuing

a venue, St. Christopher’s

her community spiritedness as

Church Hall, and Sylvia’s son

she now helps in the MacMillan

was the first pupil before other

charity shop on College Hill

children, including Nigel,

and has trained as a volunteer

joined him. Before long, they

visitor for the charity Home

changed venues to the hall of

Start. “I love working for Home

Our Lady Of Lourdes Catholic

Start as it means I still get my

Church.

dose of children.

very friendly lady of

wanted to work with children

obvious intelligence and

and this job at The Grange,

went from strength to strength

me their ‘surrogate Granny’

spark, Rita Bicknell is

Hindhead, a home for children

and many families in the local

and I am still in contact with

From then on, the nursery

“One family proudly called

outstanding in a number of

with special needs, was the

area sent their children. “I met

them despite their not needing

ways but perhaps mostly for

perfect opportunity. We

an awful lot of interesting

a volunteer visitor any more.

her inherent modesty. She

applied.

people and it was lovely as I

That is lovely and I can’t wait to

knew so many families in the

get started with my newly

local community.”

assigned family.”

began life in a village between

“It seems odd nowadays

Sheffield and Barnsley, and at

because of the improvements

the age of 15 decided to get a

in travel but the manager said

job. Not wanting to work in a

that it was too far to come for

but she was determined not to

continues even after

big city, she and her friend,

an interview so we had better

sell her nursery as a business

retirement, Rita replied, “I

Sylvia, bought The Lady

come for a one-month trial.”

development project; she

think it is really rewarding and I

managed to fulfil her wish for it

enjoy being out in the

magazine and looked at the jobs advertised. “As luck would have it,” Rita

This they did, leaving all their

In 2003 Rita decided to retire

friends and family up north. “It

to be maintained as a nursery

community with people. Plus, I

was a big adventure to go so far

school for the community.

think you get repaid

explained, “there was an

from home together and I am

advertisement saying ‘TWO

still amazed that my parents

surprised to receive a letter

FRIENDS REQUIRED.’ We both

were noble enough to let me

offering her an MBE for her

When asked why she

In May 2004, she was

somewhere – or at least, I feel it is the right thing to do.” Lucy Coates

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

Health

cosmetic dentists and now coaches in the UK and the US. He is a UK instructor for the NY-based Aesthetic Advantage Course run by Dr Larry Rosenthal – and patronised by the likes of Catherine Zeta Jones and Michael Douglas. Barry says he has “a passion for ‘smile makeovers’, providing patients with the inner confidence of achieving a lasting beautiful smile”. Dr Oulton migrated south having grown up in the Wirral in Cheshire and qualified as a dentist from the University of Leeds in 1993. Seven years ago he acquired a run-down dentists’ premises in Wey Hill which now house his smart, modern practice. “Haslemere is a great place to work,” he says with a smile. Some of the team are pictured; others include dentists Dr Julian Perry, and Dr James Grant. Customers of HDC are well looked after by friendly staff, with a welcoming cup of coffee. They have the latest technology including DVD glasses to watch a favourite film while their teeth are being treated, long lasting crowns available in one hour with the Cerec machine and Zoom Whitening. They are also offering non surgical facial cosmetic treatments for fine All smiles (left to right): Sam O’Connor (front desk co-ordinator), Sally Neaves (marketing); Emma Peters, Dr Barry Oulton and Dr Rishi Soni (Dentists); Naz Miah, Kristie Bishop, Claire Harris (all dental nurses); and Wendy Redrup (hygienist)

lines and wrinkles including Restlylane, Laresse and very soon microdermabrasion.

When you’re smiling...

So it is no surprise patients of Haslemere Dental Centre are smiling all the way home. Contact: HDC, 56 Wey Hill, Haslemere, GU27 1HN.

The classic song maintains that “when you’re smiling, the whole world smiles with you”. These sentiments find a strong echo at the Haslemere Dental Centre (HDC) in Wey Hill.

ne aim of the practice is

and attractive smile. They also

cosmetic dentistry, and a top

“ensuring that patients

seek to develop “lifetime

exponent of ‘The Smile Lift’ (as

relationships”.

seen on Extreme Makeover and

leave with the inner selfconfidence and esteem that come with possessing a healthy

Dr Barry Oulton is one of the leading practitioners in

Ten Years Younger). He has received training from master

Tel: 01428 643506. email: team@ somethingtosmileabout.co.uk www.somethingtosmileabout.co.u k Life

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

Gardening

Top tips for spring success With Spring comes new life and new beginnings. In the garden the plans for new planting schemes and projects take seed. Chris Rawlings offers some ideas for spring and summer – and some of them will take you through the year into winter

pruning. This plant, if pruned

are algae free so that you don’t

properly, will give you some of

slip and hurt yourself.

the best results in the winter. The main problem with this

5) Great grills

plant type is that people do not

I love a good barbecue and try

prune it hard enough. Good

to lay on the best for my family.

pruning will give great results

But there is always the chance

with Cornus. Essentially what you need to do is cut the plant hard to

of disaster: for example, you go to light your gas bbq and find only enough gas for two

about 9 inches from the ground

burgers and a sausage, ruining

in March to April then feed

your grand plans for fish

with Vitax Q4. This will

kebabs, mixed veg stir fry and

encourage vigorous growth

some homemade lamb koftas.

from the plant and give great

So I make sure that I have

coloured stems in the winter. If

ample gas and that the grill is

as knowing which direction the

you leave this plant un-pruned

clean and ready to go. I use a

site faces.

it can get woody and lacklustre.

bbq cleaner for this job, as

alkaline, and different soil

2) Colourful calendar

4) Path to safety

the mustard (so to speak). The

structures: some waterlog and

To achieve that most sought

The spring can bring some

same applies to your charcoal

some freely drain. This can be a

after prize – the ever-

great weather to our county; it

grill; make sure it is clean and

problem when advising on

interesting garden – the best

can also bring some very wet

ready to go and that there is

perfect planting.

tip I can give is to go to your

days and nights. It is important

plenty of fuel for it – that you

local garden centre at least

to make sure you are safe in the

have fire lighters and of course matches!

1) Perfect planting Haslemere has very different

some kitchen cleaners don’t cut

soil types, ranging from acid to

One of the best ways of getting the best information for

once a month and buy just one

garden so I advise you to invest

planting is to purchase a soil-

plant that is in flower, or is

in a good path and driveway

testing kit and test two points

showing some interest, and

cleaner.

of your garden, as it can vary

plant it in a position that it

The new ones on the market

That is about it for this issue so I hope that the tips help you. If you have any questions you would like answered, please

from one end to another. Then

suits. This will ensure your

are so good that you do not

you can take your findings and

garden has colour interest all

have to re apply them for some

contact me c/o the editor of

get advice on the best plants

year round.

time. Using one of the more

Life in Haslemere and I will be

for those areas. This will give

modern products insures they

glad to help with any gardening

your adviser the crucial

3) Corking Cornus

are biodegradable and they do

problem you have.

information they need. A photo

The coloured stem Cornus is a

not harm wildlife. It will also

Chris Rawlings

also helps a great deal as well

great candidate at this time for

make sure that your pathways

Hillier Garden Centre, Liss Life

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

A Week in the Life of...

Richard Royds... wine merchant

Monday

be playing at Brook Cricket

nts.htm ). Sometimes we have a

April. I am going with a small

Our shop is usually closed on

Club this summer. When I’m

guest speaker but tonight I am

group of fellow independent

Mondays but this Monday finds

not working I spend as much

doing the talking. It’s Burgundy

wine merchants to taste new

me doing our annual complete

time as possible playing cricket

this evening, which is probably

wines from the 2006 vintage.

stocktake. We have installed a

on Sundays in the summer, and

my favourite wine region.

new computerised

gardening (often with the help

Much as I love the great

till/accounting/stock control

of my three-year-old son).

system and for it to work

We will be staying at Château Fontesteau in the Haut-Médoc

classic Clarets from Bordeaux,

whose wines we sell. People

the hands-on family-run

often ask if we do lots of travelling to exotic vineyards.

properly we need 100%

Wednesday

approach of most of the

accurate stock records.

A very busy day. Leaving the

winemakers that we deal with

Alas, we have to spend most

shop in the charge of my wife

in Burgundy gives their wines

of our time selling the stuff to

Tuesday

Jennie (who is also my partner

the edge to me. We run our

justify the time spent buying it.

After the day’s regular

in the business) I’m off to

tastings to inform and

But we do usually manage two

correspondence, processing

London to attend a major trade

entertain our customers –

or three trips per year. We are

invoices and accounts I spend

wine tasting. This is an

there’s no hard sell – so have a

hoping to go to the Southern

a few minutes updating our

opportunity to catch up with

look at our website if you are

Rhône later in the year to visit

web-site

about a dozen of our suppliers,

interested.

our Châteauneuf-du-Pape and

(www.haslemerecellar.co.uk)

to taste new vintages of regular

with a few vintage changes for

stock items and to try some

Thursday

saving up to visit New Zealand

some of our wines.

potential new lines.

Having received a few good

in a year or two.

Today I have received good

I get back from London in

Gigondas suppliers. We are also

orders at last night’s wine

Friday

news that Rustenberg Wines,

time to conduct one of the

tasting my first job today is to

one of our South African

regular series of tutored

process the invoices. Then I

Friday is always a hectic day.

suppliers, has agreed to

tastings which we hold in the

have to make some

On Fridays we receive most of

sponsor the young South

Georgian House Hotel (see

arrangements for a trip to

our deliveries, which are

African professional who will

www.haslemerecellar.co.uk/eve

Bordeaux at the beginning of

collected for us from our

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

Richard Royds in Burgundy

bonded warehouse by Darren,

day never goes by without

our delivery driver. At the same

thinking about wine. If we don’t

time we give him all our orders

have guests for Sunday lunch –

for delivery to our customers

when we would certainly have

throughout London and the

wine – Jennie and I usually

Home Counties. I manage to

treat ourselves to a nice bottle

find time to open some

on Sunday evening after we

samples for a couple who are

have put our son to bed.

choosing wines for their wedding in a month’s time. We

Spring wine

offer sale or return for big

recommendations

parties and weddings as well as

2004

free delivery and collection of

Chablis Domaine Billaud-

unused bottles.

Simon Classic fresh crisp dry white.

Saturday

Per bottle, £11.50. Case price,

This is always our busiest day

£125.00. Special case price

in the shop and most of the day

during April/May, £115.00.

is spent serving customers. We start early (by wine trade

2004 Blason de San Juan,

standards!) at 8.30am and for

Ribera del Duero

local customers we offer a

Flavoursome & very smooth

delivery service on Saturday

Spanish red.

evening so, though we shut at

Per bottle, £8.99. Special

5pm, often I am not finished

introductory case price,

until 7 o’clock. Today is our first

£97.00.

Saturday with the new computerised till – fingers

See also our Ribera del Duero

crossed that it will behave

special offer at

itself!

www.haslemerecellar.co.uk

Sunday

Richard Royds

We are closed on Sundays but a

Haslemere Cellar

Fitness - Champneys Forest Mere

Get fit, get pampered Gareth Gammon winds down, miles away from anywhere… just up the road

uring the course of your average day, how many

different tasks do you need to undertake? Get kids up, make breakfast, remake breakfast because they do not want new experience for me – am I

porridge after all, fight over school uniform, row over

now a metro-sexual? Having

brushing hair, do reading

initially scoffed at the idea

practice forgotten from last

(what would my friends say?), it

night, organise car seats, pick

was a very pleasant, relaxing,

up neighbour’s kids for school

strangely stimulating

run, drop off at nursery and so

experience administered with

on... All this before 8.30am and the challenge of a full working day.

expertise by Hannah, one of 20

relaxation is always justifiable.

specialists, leaving me buffed,

On a recent visit to Forest

puffed and a little bit more

Mere we were met at arrivals by Andrea, the duty manager,

shiny - which is a good thing,

idyllic contrast of a day at

given white robes, the in-house

apparently, according to my

Champneys Forest Mere…

clothing of choice for all, and

wife. Just don’t ask me about

Check in; receive bath robe; get

shown up to the spa facilities,

the mud treatment, the

pampered; read newspaper; get

the gym, the treatment rooms,

thalasso therapy pool, Reiki or

pampered; eat food; get

restaurants (choice of 3),

Graphology!

pampered; swim; get

library and our room. Children,

pampered; eat evening meal;

chores or challenges or in fact,

demanding attention - just the

tiring, so I found out, so a stint

sneak in a glass of wine; go to

worryingly, the presence of a

two of us. Forest Mere had got

of physical exertion is offered

bed.

bar were not even mentioned!

us and we’d only been there 20

by the dedicated fitness and

minutes. After a couple of

well-being team at Forest Mere.

Now compare this to the

They say in life you need

How relaxing could a stay be?

ours or anybody else’s,

Too much relaxation can be

Set in an amazing 150 acres of

contrast, and certainly Forest

With a full timetable of

exhausting lengths, the only

Mere offers that, and it is on

relaxation ahead, we were

way to recover is in the sauna

our doorstop near Liphook.

about to find out.

and steam room – though the

hire of mountain bikes and

cold plunge pool was perhaps

guided healthy walks, Forest

One does not need an excuse

The pool was strangely

to stop the world for a while,

serene, warm and calming. No

but if you can find one, a short

boisterous teenagers on giant

break in an oasis of luxury and

floats or screaming toddlers,

more sadistic than meditative. Next on the agenda? A gentleman’s facial. This was a

wood and parkland, with free

Mere allows a real feeling of escape and freedom. Lakes, wood, hills and views –

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

sumptuous buffet for lunch

least once a year. Go on,

and three course á la carte for

indulge yourself, step off the

supper. I even asked Frankie,

world, leave the kids with the

our waitress, to turn our

cat, or your mother, get away,

filtered water magically into

miles away, just down the road

wine. A crisp white duly

at Champney’s Forest Mere –

arrived, consumed in suitable

it’s good for you.

moderation of course. On waking the following day we felt like we had been away

Prices:

from the real world for a week.

Day Experience

Forest Mere has a clever way of

from £69.95

de-stressing you, and it’s not

Weekend Mini Break

just with the lotions and

from £219.95

cycling, swimming, reading and

potions. It has an ambience

resting we returned to our

that washes over you from the

Contact details:

need to mix pleasure with pain,

room which was modern and

minute you arrive.

Tel: 08703 300 300

but after so much pampering,

stylish and beautifully

the gym was calling – weights,

appointed, complete with flat

treadmills, cross trainers and

screen, beneficially, showing

healthy food, is it white robes,

even a spinning class all

the six nations rugby. What a

is it the pleasant staff, is it the

punished me for a couple of

nice touch! Not a travel cot to

other peaceful clients, is it the

hours. But with no clock to

be seen. Shame!

inspirational. Now maybe we all have a

watch, no kids to rush back to,

Food is a key element of any

my energy levels were

stay and the quality and style of

returning despite the exercise.

the offering at Forest Mere is

After a tough afternoon of

indulgently tasty and healthy…

Is it the peaceful music played

Web: www.champneys.com

in the therapy rooms, is it the

relaxation room, is it the time to think and stare? The answer: it’s all of these. A priceless 24 hours that

Life

See page 38 for a chance to win a luxurious stay at the Champneys Forest Mere

should be mandatory for all at

Hindhead Music Centre

House full of music Ann Hughes-Chamberlain lives by her belief that “music is a language which reaches every mortal being”. She spoke to Lucy Coates about the Music Centre which she founded

Chamberlain’s philosophy is

she explained, “they learn

that “music is a language which

about composers (singing

reaches every mortal being and

songs by Mozart and Schubert),

can bring unrivalled joy to so

and the instruments of the

many if only they have the

orchestra, studying one each

opportunity to discover it.” And

week, where they hear it played

this belief convinced her to

and have a go themselves. They

convert her successful career as

also learn the beginnings of

a professional harpist into

reading and writing rhythms

founding the Hindhead Music

and tunes, and of playing the

Centre of which she is

recorder.

principal. Her dream was to

“These classes very often

offer music tuition to everyone:

inspire the children to take up

from toddlers to pensioners,

an instrument, and there are

complete novices to post-

children’s orchestras and

graduates, in all instruments

chamber groups for them to

and styles of music from

enjoy the fun of social music

classical to pop. In order to

–making.”

achieve this. Ann’s large Victorian country-

The teaching is of an excellent quality, with over forty tutors,

house provides facilities such

all of whom are professional

as reception rooms, about 20

musicians in their own right.

he Hindhead Music Centre

teaching rooms, a coffee shop,

Over 500 pupils of all ages

has a relaxed yet

waiting rooms and an elegant

come to the Centre from all

professional atmosphere

recital room which seats 75

over the South of England as a

combining concentration,

comfortably along with her

result - whether they are

inspiration and tranquillity.

beautiful Steinway Concert

diploma candidates or

Music fills the corridors and

Grand Piano.

beginners, they will find superb

you may hear snippets of a

Ann encourages parents to

tuition at Hindhead, with equal

Beethoven piano concerto, a

introduce their children to

care and encouragement, so

beginner recorder trilling

music from an early age and

that each and every pupil may

London’s Burning, and a

offers ‘Musical Bumps’ sessions

reach his or her potential.

dramatic riff from a distant

for children as young as two as

electric guitar.

well as other sessions for older

Morning Musical Appreciation

children. “In these sessions,”

Talks for adults, an Adult

Founder Ann Hughes-

Ann Hughes-Chamberlain

There are also Monday

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

concerts and chamber-groups, while also enjoying the

by internationally renowned

beautiful scenery, the heated

artists.

swimming pool and grounds of

about having music lessons at

Ann’s wonderful home.

Hindhead Music Centre,

The Music Centre offers

• graphic design • print • public relations • exhibitions • advertising

through to our last.

Beginners’ Orchestra, Adult Chamber Choir and concerts

If you would like to learn more

please look at their website

Summer Music Courses for a

All in all, this is a centre of

variety of age ranges, abilities

excellence and charm, which

www.hindheadmusiccentre.co

and instruments. These courses

highlights and celebrates the

.uk or phone Ann on

offer a chance to take part in

beauty and importance of

01428 604941.

master-classes, workshops,

learning and enjoying music

technique classes, discussions,

from our first years, right

• websites • copywriting

Life

business direction by design

Your locally based, nationally operating design & marketing agency. How can we help you?

t | 01730 235666 e | info@navigate-design.com www.navigate-design.com

Property: Beacon Hill

Sole agent

Hind Cottage in Beacon Hill

in 2003. “Farnham is important

every seven years). This has

because it helps to direct buyers

resulted in Kelway Law Lettings

into Haslemere, Hindhead and

growing significantly.

Liphook. People coming to the

Typical local properties cited by

Hindhead area for the first time

Kelway Law include: Hind

for instance may only know

Cottage, a four-bedroom

about it because of the traffic

Edwardian house in Beacon Hill

lights on the A3.”

for £599,950; and Bay Tree

The Kelway Law group operates

Cottage with two double

with a unified sales and

bedrooms in Frensham,

marketing operation. Its

currently on the market for just

computerised network, which

under £400,000.

updates every 15 minutes, allows

Although Kelway Law operates

each branch to keep a record of

in several different areas, Adrian

all the properties on the firm’s

Law and his staff of 17 are united

books – rather than being

in providing an integrated

geographically split.

service – solely for their

Adrian, who was a councillor

customers.

for 10 years on Haslemere town

Adrian Law of Kelway Law outside his offices in Beacon Hill

council, expects a “surge in the

Contact: Kelway Law, The Old

market” in April and May, before

Bank, Beacon Hill Road, Beacon

the new Home Information

Hill, GU26 6NR

he only agency in the village

“take the air;” and more

Packs (HIPs) come into effect this

Tel: 01428 604488

of Beacon Hill is Kelway

development happened in the

summer (supposedly in June).

Web: www.kelwaylaw.co.uk

Law, who also has branches in

1920s. The identity of the village

Then, he believes, the market will

Wey Hill, Liphook and Farnham.

is distinct from Grayshott, Adrian

settle, and may slow down later

Adrian Law, the firm’s founder,

Law says, partly because there is

in the year.

set up his first office in 1994 by

a valley in between.

the A3 traffic lights in Hindhead. “Some people thought that was

With a Beacon Hill frontage on the A287, Kelway Law receives

Stamp Duty, Adrian Law said, has become a “check to the market moving in the way it used

visits from passers-by. “I think it

to.” He finds that some people

but it gave me immediate

is significantly better to have a

relocated by their employers

exposure; and I always planned

face-to-face contact with

increasingly tend to rent rather

to open in Beacon Hill,” he says.

prospective customers rather

than buy a new house. This is

His parents had moved to

than rely solely on the phone or

partly because there are so many

Beacon Hill when he was 17, and

email,” Adrian Law adds.

people chasing family houses

an eccentric choice of location

he and his wife and son live there

He always wanted to expand

and also because the Stamp Duty

and bought a competitor in

on selling a house for £500,000

Haslemere and Liphook in 2000.

plus (and then re-selling when

to grow in Edwardian times as

Both offices have now been

they are relocated again) creates

London gentry moved to

moved to stronger locations and

substantial bills (on average

Hindhead and Haslemere to

an office was opened in Farnham

people move house roughly

today. The area of Beacon Hill started

Correction In the Property section of the February-March issue of Life in Haslemere, it was incorrectly stated that Martin Dixon, principle of Safford Dixon, is a former President of Haslemere Rugby Club. He is in fact a former President of Haslemere Border Athletic Club. We are extremely sorry for this error and apologise wholeheartedly to Mr Dixon and to Haslemere Rugby Club. Mr Dixon, who reports “receiving many new instructions and achieving very good prices” in 2007, can be contacted at Safford Dixon, 7 Petworth Road, Haslemere, 01428 664455.

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

PERMANENT & TEMPORARY RECRUITMENT

A Refreshingly Different Approach • General Office Staff • PA / Legal Secretaries • Sales / Marketing • Customer Service • Book keeping • Accountancy • Industrials • Warehouse • Catering info@team-select.net www.teamselect.net

HASLEMERE 01482

Sport

Haslemere Cricketers one summer afternoon outside their new pavillion finished in 1994

Cricketers ready for the new season

Haslemere for at least 400 years. In 1622, five men were warned about playing cricket in evening prayer time ... “for that a little childe had like to have her brains beaten out with a cricket bat.”*

Jo Morley takes a view from the boundary of a sport which has been played in Haslemere for at least 400 years

A cricket match between Haslemere and Thursley is

he thoughts of young men may turn to love at

this time of year but, in over 30 households in and around Haslemere, their thoughts turn to another thing cricket. From May to September, the Ashes being lost will be a distant memory as Haslemere CC 1st X1, 2nd XI and Colts fight it out for their own trophies on the green fields of Surrey. The English ladies team playing the Haslemere men’s team

Cricket has been played in

recorded in 1753. James Boxall, the Haslemere schoolmaster, lived in Shottermill at the turn of the 19th century and made cricket bats for the club members in his spare time. Although it is hard to say precisely, it has been generally agreed that Haslemere Cricket Club was established in 1827. Originally, the team played in what was then called Denbigh Park - now known as Lythe Hill Park (along the Petworth Road). Later they moved to a new ground in Church Lane, but have eventually settled in the “First World War Memorial Recreation Ground” affectionately known as “The Rec“. The Rec can be reached by going up the unfeasiblysteep Museum Hill off the Petworth Road, then crossing over to the Old Haslemere Road. A number of famous personalities have played for the team, notably Sir Jack

David Boxall is the son of Mick. David’s mother Jean is a member of the Haslemere Cricket Club. especially Jean who gives up so much of her time to help with the organisation

Hobbs (Surrey and England the holder of the record for

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

Jack Hobbs, 1935, Surrey and England cricketer, scoring the most centuries ever in first-class cricket (197), played for Haslemere for fun after his retirement. The coin tossed at the start of home matches to decide who bats first was given to the Club by him.

the most career centuries) as

unfortunately relegated, the

Amesbury School every

a guest player in the 1930s.

1st XI were the only side to

Wednesday since January,

He donated a 1935 crown to

have played in the 1st XI

but the real cricket starts

the Club and it is used these

First Division every season.

with games against Merrow

Under the Presidency of

1st XI and 2nd XI on May 12

days for the toss at home games. Arthur Conan-Doyle and

Mick Boxall, players such as

with skipper Dan Clarke

Graham Boxall, Andrew

leading out the first team at

The Hon Lionel Tennyson

Hastilow, Kevin Gray, Jon

The Rec, hoping to bounce

(who captained England) -

Larbey, Lee Clement and

right back into the top

son of Alfred Lord Tennyson

David Boxall have

division.

- also played for Haslemere

established Haslemere CC as

Cricket Club.

a well-respected team

* “Haslemere in History” by

throughout the county.

G.R.Rolston

In the 1950s, the England Ladies team would play Haslemere CC (and win). Prior to 1970, all club cricket in Surrey was played

The 2nd XI fared better last

Visit Haslemere CC’s

season and, at one time,

website at

were top of the 2nd XI

www.haslemerecc.co.uk.

Second Division. A

as “friendlies”. Then leagues

promising aspect of their

If you would like your local

became established and in

team was the number of

sports club featured here,

1993 Haslemere CC joined

Colts used thanks to the

please do get in touch with

the newly-formed Fullers

encouragement of Youth

the Life In Haslemere team

Brewery Surrey County

Manager and 2nd XI captain

on 01730 235669 or e-mail

League where they remain to

Kym Hooker.

Lucy@lifemags.co.uk

this day. Until last season, when they were

The players have been

junior coaching programme, sponsored by Embassy Freight

from the busiest families – get a

establishing a reputation as a

(UK) Ltd. Every weekend

chance to try golf, which is an

highly popular venue for

Professional Golfers’ Association

increasingly popular sport with youngsters.

developing junior and family

(PGA) professionals at Tri-Golf

golf. Hundreds of local children

provide relaxed, family-friendly

embrace golf through this public

lessons, which help boys and

For a free introductory

centre’s schools’ coaching

girls of all ages to progress

session for your youngster

programmes, which are run

through the National Golf

with a Tri-Golf professional

throughout the Haslemere area.

Foundation Passport Scheme.

phone 01428 713131 and

The children’s enthusiasm is also supported by a successful

sessions and school holiday golf

Out of town between Petersfield and Rogate

camps ensure that people – even

he Tri-Golf Centre at

Grayshott is rapidly

Numerous after-school

Looking for the finest in classic and European country clothing and footwear, for ladies and gentlemen?

Life

practising in the nets at

Kids swing into action T

Best kept secret

mention Life in Haslemere magazine.

Life

Call 01730

263477

Arts Diary

Arts Diary APRIL Friday 13 April Jazz and Dinner Venue: Georgian House Hotel, The High Street, Haslemere Time: 8pm Book Tickets: 01428 656644 Sarurday 14 April Charity Concert - Pink Floyd Tribute Band, Perfect Alibi in aid of Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Venue: Farnham Maltings Tme: 6.30pm Book Tickets: 01428 751600 Sunday 15 April A Medieval Murder Mystery Venue: Petworth House, Petworth, West Sussex GU28 0AE Time: 2pm-3.30pm Tuesday 17 - Monday 30 April The Sculpture Exhibition AUGUSTE RODIN Gallery One, Grayshott Venue: Gallery One, 5/6 Victoria Terrace, Crossways Road, Grayshott, GU26 6HF Time: Monday - Saturday 9.30am 5.30pm Information: 01428 609001 Friday 20 April Charterhouse Celebrity Concerts Emily Hooker (piano) Venue: Llewellyn Room, Charterhouse Hall, Charterhouse School, Godalming GU7 2DX Time: 8pm Book Tickets: music@charterhouse.or.uk or SAE to Emma Woods at above address

Conductor: Tom Seligman Venue: Petersfield Festival Hall, Heath Road, Petersfield GU31 4TF Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01730 261199 Tuesday 24 April Alton Organ Society Concert Organist: David Hill Venue: St Lawrence’s Church, Alton Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01420 543628 Saturday 28 April St Peter's Church Charity Concert (raising money for RNLI) Liz Le Grove (organ) Paul Hart (trumpet) Venue: St Peter's Church, The Square, Petersfield GU32 3HS Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01730 261199 Surrey Mozart Players Concert Conductor: Kenneth Woods Beethoven Overture Leonora No. 3, Prokofiev Violin Concerto No. 2 in G, Schumann Symphony No. 3 in E Flat Venue: Electric Theatre, Onslow Street, Guildford GU1 4SZ Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01483 444789 Saturday 28 April - Wednesday 2 May (Saturday 5 May - Wednesday 9 May also) National Trust Double Exposure Artist: Joni Owen, Photographer: Andrew Owen Venue: Petworth House, Petworth West Sussex GU28 0AE Time: 11am-5pm

Saturday 21 April Haydn's The Creation Epworth Choir and Southern Pro Musica Venue: Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7UP Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01483 750506 Gardner Midsummer Ale, Bernstein Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, Shostakovich Symphony No.5 in D Minor Op.47 Southern County Youth Orchestra

Book Tickets: 01483 422006 Thursday 10 - Saturday 12 May Carousel The Grayshott Stagers Music by Rogers & Hammerstein Conductor: Milva Sanderson Venue: Grayshott Village Hall, Headley Road, Grayshott GU26 6TZ Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01428 605194

Friday 4 May Jazz and Dinner - Tina May Quartet Venue: Georgian House Hotel, The High Street, Haslemere Time: 8pm Book Tickets: 01428 656644

Friday 11 May Charterhouse Celebrity Concerts Richard Birchall Venue: Llewellyn Room, Charterhouse Hall, Charterhouse School, Godalming GU7 2DX Time: 8pm Book Tickets: music@charterhouse.or.uk or SAE to Emma Woods at above address

Saturday 5 - Wednesday 9 May National Trust Double Exposure Artist: Joni Owen, Photographer: Andrew Owen Venue: Petworth House, Petworth West Sussex GU28 0AE Time: 11am-5pm

Saturday 12 May Darrell Davison’s Farewell Concert The Haslemere Symphony Orchestra and Chorus Venue: Haslemere Hall Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01428 642161

Sunday 6 May Twinned Town Concert Godalming Choral Society and Nouvel Ensemble Choral de Joigny Conductors: John Bawden and Michael Veazey Venue: The Chapel, Charterhouse School, Godalming GU7 2DF Time: 7.30pm

Die Schönemüllerin Piano: Bela Hartmann, Tenor: Marwan Shamiyeh Venue: Hindhead Music Centre, Hindhead Road, Hindhead GU26 6BA Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01428 604941

MAY Tilford Bach Society Concert Victoria Davis and Ema Mitarai (harp) JS Bach, Tournier, Andres and Mayuzumi Venue: Farnham Castle, Castle Hill, Farnham GU9 0AE Time: 8pm Book Tickets: 01428 713338

Haslemere Players are a thriving, award-winning society which place great emphasis on not only giving pleasure to their audiences, but also enjoying themselves. The weeks of rehearsal are fun and the Society has an active social committee giving plenty of opportunities to get fully involved. Here they are in their latest production, Titanic - the musical. For more information about the Haslemere Players, see page 39

Saturday 19 May Elgar's The Kingdom Farnham and Bourne Choral Society Conductor: Robin Wells Venue: The Maltings, Bridge Square, Farnham GU9 7QR Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01483 425575 Choral Music for an Early Summer Evening Duruflé Requiem, Allegri Misérere Fernhurst Choral Society Conductor: Giles White Venue: St Mary's Church, Petworth Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01428 644125 …and all that JAZZ Bob Chilcott: A Little Jazz Mass John Rutter: Gloria Will Todd: Mass in Blue Conductor: Jeremy Blackhouse Vivace Chorus Venue: Guildford Cathedral Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01483 444334 Sunday 20 May HHH Sacconi Quartet Haydn String Quartet Op. 50 No. 1, Brahms Fantasien Op. 116 for piano and Piano Quintet Op. 34 Venue: The Music Room, Champs Hill, Coldwaltham, Pulborough, East Sussex RH20 1LY Time: 7pm (gardens open at 5.30pm) Book Tickets: 01428 652448

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

Tuesday 22 May Alton Organ Society Concert Organist: Philip Scriven Venue: St Lawrences Church, Alton Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01420 543628 Friday 25 May - Saturday 2 June 55th Tilford Bach Festival 2007 Venues: various Times: 8pm For More Information/Book Tickets: 01428 713338 www.tilford-bach.org.uk Saturday 26 May Glinka Overture Ruslan and Lyudmila, Shostakovich Cello Concerto No. 1 in E Minor Op. 107, Tchaikovsky Serenade for Strings in C Op. 48, Prokofiev Symphony No. 1

in D Op. 25 Southern Orchestral Concert Society Southern Pro Musica Conductor: Jonathon Wilcocks Cello: Mikhail Lezdkan Venue: Petersfield Festival Hall, Heath Road, Petersfield GU31 4TF Time: 7.30pm Book Tickets: 01730 261199 Thursday 31 May - Saturday 2 June Music Hall The Haslemere Players Conductor: Tony McIntee Venue: Haslemere Hall, Bridge Road, Haslemere GU27 2AS Time: 7.30pm, 2.30 (Sat matinee only) Book Tickets: 01428 643334

Life

EASTER

Magic Show 2 great ways to support The Mayor's Charities (G.U.T.S & P.A.G.E.A.N.T.) Magic show at Haslemere Hall

Magic Mikey Charity Magic Show for children Wednesday 11th April Haslemere Hall Show times 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. Tickets ÂŁ5 Booking Office 01428 642161 & Easter Egg Raffle Tickets available from Marley Flowers (To be drawn on Easter Sunday) Magic Show generously sponsored by Crayola 37

Competition

Your chance to win A Champneys Forest Mere Spa Day for two

Competition To win the prize… Answer the following questions about Champneys Forest Mere:

1) How many restaurants are there? 2) How many acres of wood and parkland? 3) What is the Champneys website address? Terms and Conditions: Entries must be received by 30 April 2007. The winner will be decided by a draw and announced in the June-July edition of Life In Haslemere . No cash alternative is available. Employees of Life Magazines Ltd, Navigate Design and Champneys Forest Mere are not allowed to submit entries.

Life In Haslemere is delighted to team up with Champneys Forest Mere to offer this fantastic prize for our competition.

The Spa Day will include for each person: • Unlimited use of the facilities • Buffet luncheon • Champneys body massage • Relaxing facial • Thalassoptherapy pool session

Send your answers and your contact details to: info@lifemags.co.uk or Life Magazines Ltd, Champneys Competition, 22 High Street, Petersfield, GU32 3JL

Valid Monday to Friday Subject to availability Minimum age 16

Last month, Life In Haslemere teamed up with Cheeky Monkeys to offer you the chance to get your photos published and to recieve an enlarged canvas print of the winning photo worth £150

And the winner is...

Winning Photo: Congratulations to Catherine Hewson who took this wonderful photo of the victorious Haslemere Junior Rugby Club

Runner up: This evocative photo of the steel band at the Charter Fair last year was taken by Peter Searight

Runner up: Taken by Charles AlexanderTompkinson on a winters day last year

ISSUE 3 APRIL - MAY 2007

A Centenary of Musicals Much has changed since Haslemere Players’ first production, The Mikado in 1905. Here are the imaginary impressions of ‘Harry’, a founding member, on a visit during the centenary in 2005

(above) Haslemere Players’ 1st production, 1905 (right) production of Barnum which won the NODA Southern Region Award for Excellence

Info on how to take part (be it on stage, back-stage or front of house) can be obtained by contacting Secretary, Pamela on 01248652037

company of the Haslemere

gnoring the centrally heated

smiled – he didn’t yet fully

As to the show itself, Harry

house with its many labour-

comprehend what modern

saw a fast-moving spectacle of

saving aids and the journey by

musicals were all about, but he

action and dance with those

car through heavy traffic, Harry

certainly knew his Music Hall.

extra, vital and magical

production had clearly worked

Players. Everybody involved in the

ingredients of music and song

extremely hard to ensure that

again the old Chestnut Avenue

was significantly smaller with

which make the musical so

the show was successful and

school where Players’ earliest

strings in decline and

unique and so appealing. There

the obvious enjoyment of the

productions were staged.

woodwind and brass in the

were no pre-ordained,

audience was their just and

Walking the few yards to the

ascendancy. When told that

choreographed moves for

much deserved reward. A great

Haslemere Hall he was still in

orchestra members were now

everybody, as demanded in the

deal had changed in 100 years,

familiar territory – he could

paid professionals, he nodded

old days of G&S. There was a

but hard work and the reward

well remember Players’ first

sympathetically.

free-thinking choreographer in

of audience enjoyment were

the production team and the

very much the same as ever.

was comforted to see once

production there in 1914.

He noted that the orchestra

On entering the auditorium Harry was amazed to see the

performers danced something

aback by the price of the

stage – literally! The curtains

called ‘tap’… and the principal

programme (more than a

were open and remained so

singers had microphones ... and

working man’s weekly wage in

throughout the show.

nobody used greasepaint…..

1905 and denominated in some

Furthermore, there was no

and those trucks!

confounded decimal currency!),

magnificent, lovingly-created,

but he was impressed by its

static stage set of yesteryear -

and composition of the

professional quality. Reading it,

things on wheels called ‘trucks’

orchestra and understood the

Harry saw that the society, after

were moved around in full view

need for microphones. As to

many years of strictly Gilbert

of the audience and the cast

the greasepaint, I explained to

and Sullivan productions, had

were even involved in moving

him that the improvements in

widened its portfolio in 1962

them and in carrying off pieces

cosmetics and in lighting had

with its staging of Merrie

of furniture.

In the Hall foyer he was taken

England and had continued to do so ever since - indeed the

The audience didn’t seem to mind and Harry had to admit

Richard Tytler

Harry remembered the size

removed the need for it. ‘You don’t know how lucky you are,’ said Harry. As I drove home, I asked Harry

last three musicals were all local

that the pace of the show did

premieres.

not slacken at all. He sighed as

what he remembered most

he remembered the days when

about the show he had just

not been involved in

the tabs were drawn before the

seen. He replied that it was the

pantomimes or straight plays

show started and the

excited buzz of the audience as

since 1957 and that it now

performers had to work in front

they left the auditorium, a buzz

staged two musicals and one

of the blues while the stage was

which signified that they had

Music Hall per year. Harry

re-set – hopefully, but not

just spent a happy and

always, without noise!.

enjoyable evening in the

He saw that the society had

Harry, a true Haslemere Player!

Useful Contacts

Useful Contacts in Haslemere & District Emergency Services: Fire: Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, St Davids, 70 Wray Park Road, Reigate RH2 0EJ Telephone: 01737 242444 Gas, Water and Electricity: Electricity Emergency: 0845 770 8090 Gas Emergency: 0800 111 999 Southern Water: 0845 278 0845 Health: Dr C Taylor & Partners, Haslemere Health Centre, Church Lane, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 2BQ Telephone: 01483 783000 Dr C.P. Taylor & Partners, Fernhurst Surgery, Crossfields, Fernhurst, Haslemere GU273JL Telephone: 01428 651040 Haslemere Health Centre Telephone: 01483 783000 Haslemere Hospital Telephone: 01483 782000 Holy Cross Hospital, Hindhead Road, Haslemere GU27 1NQ Telephone: 01428 643311 Homecall Doctor, Warrenden, Weydown Road GU27 1DS Telephone: 01428 654786 Royal Surrey County Hospital Telephone: 01483 571122 Police: Haslemere Police Station, 46 West Street GU27 2AB Telephone: 0845 125 2222 Surrey Police, 6 Carshalton Road, Sutton Surrey SM1 4RF Telephone: 0845 125 2222

Arts Groups: DanceArt (3-18 years) Telephone: Kahli 07830325426 Website: www.danceart.org.uk

Haslemere Camera Club: Telephone: Clinton 01428 727403 Website: www.haslemerecameraclub.co.uk Haslemere Performing Arts Telephone: 01428 652360 E-mail: Haparts@aol.com Haslemere Players Telephone: 01428 643334 Website: www.haslemereplayers.com Haslemere Symphony Orchestra and Chorus Telephone: 01428 605612 Website: www.hmsconcerts.info Haslemere Thespians Telephone: 01428 643585 Haslemere Town Band Telephone: 01252 331828 HHH Concerts Telephone: 01798 831242 Website: www.haslemere.com/music Opera South inc. Opera Omnibus Telephone: 01428 684291 The Grayshott Stagers Telephone: 01428 751898 Website: www.grayshottstagers.co.uk

Helplines, Support Groups & Charities: Alzheimer's Society: 01428 642055 Arthritis Research Campaign: 01428 724741 BLISS: 01428 642320 Books On Wheels: 01428 604558 British Heart Foundation: 01483 419774 Canine Partners for Independence: 08456 580480 Care In Haslemere: 01428 652505 Cats Protection: 01428 604297 Celebrate Marriage: 01428 652368 Childline: 0800 1111 Citizen's Advice Bureau: 0844 8487969 Crossways Counselling Service: 01428 644333

Environment Agency: 08708 506506 Friends of Holy Cross Hospital: 01428 683144 Guide Dogs for the Blind: 01428 727617 Haslemere and District Volunteer Bureau: 01428 661166 Haslemere and District Macmillan Cancer Care: 01428 605185 Haslemere and District Round Table Society: 07717836809 Haslemere Blind Club: 01428 643971 Haslemere Gateway Club: 01428 654496 Haslemere Hard of Hearing Support Group: 01428 658190 Haslemere Library: 01428 642907 Haslemere/Midhurst Committee for Macmillan Cancer Support: 01428 652238 HAV4D: 07930905016 Haslemere Society: 01428 661379 Haslemere Stroke Club: 01428 645855 Hazlehurst Trust through Surrey Community Foundation: 01372 861609 Helen Arkell Dyslexia Centre: 01252 792400 Hindhead Community Group: 01428 607816 Home-Start: 01252 737453 Home-Start Butser: 01730 233 755 King's World Trust for Children: 01428 653504 Natural England (was Countryside Agency): 020 7932 5800 Relate: 02392 827026 Royal British Legion: 01428 642675 Samaritans: 08457 909090 SPACES Young Parents Group: 01428 723910 Visitor Information Centre: 01428 645425 Women's Royal Voluntary Service: 01428 605498

Places to Stay: Georgian House Hotel High Street, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 2JY Telephone: 01428 656644 E-mail: mail@georgianhousehotel.com Inn on the Hill, Lower Street, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 2PD Telephone: 01428 642006 E-mail: info.hill@tmp.uk.com Lythe Hill Hotel and Spa Petworth Road, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 3BQ Telephone: 01428 651251 E-mail: lythe@lythehill.co.uk Wheatsheaf Inn, Grayswood, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 2DE Telephone: 01428 644440 E-mail: the.wheatsheaf@talk21.com

Sports and Leisure: Broadwater Park Golf Club, Old Portsmouth Road, Godalming, Surrey GU7 3BU Telephone: 01483 429955 Camberley Health Golf Club, Golf Drive, Camberley. Surrey GU15 1JG Telephone: 01276 232258 Champney's Forest Mere Health Resort, Liphook, Hampshire

GU30 7JQ Telephone: 01428 726013 Website: www.champneys.com Cowdray Park Polo Club Telephone: 01730 813257 E-mail: enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk Website: www.cowdraypolo.co.uk Cranleigh Golf and Leisure Club, Barhatch Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 7NG Telephone: 01483 268855 Dean Farm Golf Course, Bordon GU35 9NG Telephone: 01420 489478 Haslemere Hockey Club Director of Hockey: Heidi Wells Telephone: 07973 345547 Director of Junior Hockey: Mandy Jackson Telephone: 01428 604643 Haslemere Recreation Association Telephone: 01428 661486 Haslemere Cricket Club Telephone: 01428 654459 Haslemere Educational Museum Telephone: 01428 642112 Haslemere Lawn Tennis Club Telephone: 01428 661486 Haslemere Rugby Club Telephone: 07771530510 Haslemere Youth Football Telephone: 01428 656215 Hindhead Golf Club, Churt Road, Hindhead, Surrey GU26 6HX Telephone: 01428 604614 Hurtmore Golf Club, Hurtmore Road, Hurtmore, Godalming, Surrey GU7 2RN Telephone: 01483 424440 Kinetika Gym, The Herons Leisure Centre, Kings Road, Haslemere GU27 2QP Telephone: 01428 658484 AND The Edge Leisure Centre, Woolmer Road, Haslemere GU27 1QU Telephone: 01428 644577 Milford Golf Club, Station Lane, Milford, Godalming, Surrey GU8 5HS Telephone: 01483 419200 Nordic Walking Andy Webb Telephone: 07950031538 Shottermill and Haslemere Football Club Telephone: John 01428 642296/07770568793 The Herons Swimming Centre Telephone: 01428 658484 The Wild Wood Country Club, Horsham Road, Alford, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8JE Telephone: 01403 753255 West Surrey Golf Club, Enton Green, Enton, Godalming, Surrey GU8 5AF Telephone: 01483 42127

Travel Numbers: Public transport information: Telephone: 08706 082608 Website: www.traveline.org.uk Train tracker: 0871 200 49 50

If you would like your contact details listed here, please e-mail Lucy@lifemags.co.uk

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