Solentlife Wessex Edition

solentlife.co.uk

Vintage edition

Say hello to...

Sensu’ Elle - a sneaky peek into the world of Burlesque

‘Members Only’ Rockin’ & Rollin’ with Victory Wheelers

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• JULY 2011 • solentlife.co.uk

MARCH 2013

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• JULY 2011 • solentlife.co.uk

intro | contents

welcome

43 18

MARCH 2013

As I write this there is still a bitter edge to the wind but apparently spring has arrived, Easter is close at hand and the shops are full of chocolate eggs when it seems like only days ago it was Christmas gifts and Valentines cards – but life moves on swiftly and surely.

In just a few weeks the clocks spring forward an hour and it seems, despite the doom and gloom portrayed in the national press, that many of the businesses that advertise in the pages of Solent Life are also moving forward. Many proprietors are telling us that although times are still tough people are beginning to come out of their winter shells and spend money again. This is good news for everyone, the businesses in the region are growing and we are all getting back to a little bit of retail therapy.

If the sight of fields of daffodils and woods full of snowdrops do not raise your spirits and the songs from the birds making new nests in the trees and bushes do not lighten your burdens then maybe this retro theme edition of Solent Life will take your thoughts back to better times when a beer was less than a pound-a-pint but you still had to step out in flared trousers and tank-tops.

In this issue we head down to Brighton and the Bohemian atmosphere of the North Laines. The Three Belles; a delightful trio of talented girls reminiscent of the Andrews Sisters, took time out from their busy performance schedule to talk to us Our artist this month produces some beautiful images in poster form that will take you back in time to the days when railway posters were at their most iconic, Whatever you are doing as the weather begins to warm there will be plenty to make you smile as you and your family get out and about to one of the many events happening this Easter. Enjoy the arrival of spring and don’t eat too many | MANAGING EDITOR of those chocolate eggs.

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48

in this issue… features 28… Travel Kiwi Encounter

30… Motor Test

Marquis Motorhomes

contactus

43… Interview Meet Burlesque Star Sensu’ Elle

Solent Life Magazine Tel… 01489 583800 • Fax… 01489 564549 Online… www.solentlife.co.uk • Email… info@solentlife.co.uk WEBB HOUSE, 20 BRIDGE ROAD, PARK GATE, HAMPSHIRE, S031 7GE

48… Marwell Zoo A Walk on the Wildside

64… Ding Dong!

It’s The Three Belles

theteam

regulars

Editorial

Dave Hill – Managing Editor Tel… 01489 583743 • Email… davehill@solentlife.co.uk David Rose-Massom – Senior Journalist Email… editorial@solentlife.co.uk Fiona Cooke – Contributing Writer Email… fiona@solentlife.co.uk

10… The Walk

Advertising Sales

36… Art Review

Sarah Kent Tel… 01489 584010 Email… sarah@solentlife.co.uk Barbara Smith Tel… 01489 583852 Email… barbara@solentlife.co.uk

Steve Walker Tel… 01489 583815 Email… steve@solentlife.co.uk Alicia Lovegrove Tel… 01489 583800 Email… alicia@solentlife.co.uk

Design & Production Leanne Dodd – Senior Designer Adam Barnard – Online Designer Tel… 01489 583718 Email… design@solentlife.co.uk

Escape to the Winnall Moors

26… Coast & Country Bohemian Rhapsody down the Laines Dave Thompson - A Touch of Class

50… Members Only Rockin’ & Rollin’ with the Victory Wheelers

98… Out and About Photographic memories of events across the south

100…What’s On

Reviews, theatre and events coming your way

// Deadline for advertising copy & editorial for next issue: 20th March 2013 Published by Living Coast Media. © Copyright Solent Life 2012. All rights reserved. No part of Solent Life Magazine can be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure all information is correct, the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions contained within.

MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …3

GOLD GOLD d e t n a W Platinum & Silver

Room 8 Gift Vouchers for Mother’s Day With Mother’s Day fast approaching, why not treat mum to something special…a Room 8 hair & beauty gift voucher?

Gift vouchers can be bought for any amount or for a particular service… facials, manicures, pedicures, massages, cut and blow drys, colours and many more. If you want to really treat and pamper mum this is a lovely relaxing present.

Bought for Cash

Acengco

Also, during March Room 8 is offering 25% discount on Dermalogica facials.

Just bring the cut out voucher (below) with you, to receive this great offer.

BROKEN JEWELLERY, GOLD COINS, DENTAL GOLD

The

BISHOPS The

Jewellery Repairs | Ring Sizing

Stones Supplied and Set | Jewellery Engraved ENGRAVING ON CUPS | TROPHIES & AWARDS & GLASSWARE Watch & Clock Repairs Watch Batteries Fitted to All Makes (By Qualified Watch Repairer)

Watch Bracelets Altered 22c Middle Road, Park Gate, Hants SO31 7GH (Located at the back of Sheila Hurst’s Florist)

01489 574465 | 07745 977960

GOLD PRICE AT IT’S HIGHEST EVER. SILVER AT BEST PRICE SINCE 1980 RECEIVE CASH With unexpected credit card bills and cost of living increasing.

Why not sell your unwanted gold and silver jewellery, Coins / Medals/ Foreign Gold / Kruger Rands / Sovereigns / Pahlavi / Chinese Panda Maple Leaf / Dental Gold.

SILVER - BRITISH OR FOREIGN COINS PRE 1947 OR PRE 1920 (Pre 1947 50% Silver Pre 1920 92.5% Silver) Old Cutlery / Cups / Trays Look for the ‘LION HALLMARK’, you will be surprised what treasures are tucked away.

For Free Advice Phone Arthur on

01489 574465 or 07745 977960

WALTHAM BISHOPS

Micro derm abrasion is also available at Room 8. To find out more about this lovely treatment or for further information, call the salon on 01489 582660.

Easter Gift TOY BOXVouchers Also WALTHAM Available

TOY BOX

NEW TOYvoucher SHOP 25% discount BISHOPS WALTHAM NEW TOY SHOP INDEPENDENT & FAMILY RUN The

on Dermalogica BISHOPS facials during March.

The

BISHOPS TRADITIONAL &WALTHAM CONTEMPORARY

R.G. WaRWick TRaDiNG LTD

STockiSTS of pRofeSSioNaL aND ReTaiL compoSTS, feRTiLiSeRS, SaNDS & GRiTS ☞ friendly service ☞ free on site parking

☎ 01329 832531 TradiTional ironmongers for all your home and garden requiremenTs.

4…

.co.uk • MARCH 2013

WALTHAM

TOY BOX

TOY BOX

TOYS & GIFTS BISHOPS WALTHAM TRADITIONAL & CONTEMPORARY PARTY BAG FILLERS TOYS & GIFTS TOY SHOP 3NEW BROOK COURT, BROOK STREET TOYS & GIFTS TOYS & GIFTS BISHOPS WALTHAM, So32 1Ax The

BISHOPS INDEPENDENT & FAMILY RUN NEWWALTHAM TOY SHOP NEW TOY SHOP TOY BOX

BISHOPS WALTHAM

INDEPENDENT & FAMILYINDEPENDENT RUN & FAMILY RUN

TRADITIONAL & CONTEMPORARY TRADITIONAL & CONTEMPORARY

BISHOPS WALTHAM PARTY FILLERS PARTY BAG FILLERS PARTY BAG BAG FILLERS TEL.01489 809145 3 BROOK COURT, BROOK STREET TOYS & GIFTS OPEN 7 INDEPENDENT & FAMILY RUN

TRADITIONAL & CONTEMPORARY 3 BROOK COURT, BROOK STREET

3 BROOK COURT, BROOK STREET

BISHOPS WALTHAM, So32 1Ax BISHOPS WALTHAM, So32 1Ax

TEL.01489 PARTY BAG FILLERS BISHOPS WALTHAM, So32 1Ax DAYS A809145 WEEK TEL.01489 809145 3 BROOK COURT, BROOK STREET

TEL.01489 809145 TEL.01489 809145 BISHOPS WALTHAM, So32 1Ax

Buddens Yard • station rd • Wickham • Po175Ja

BISHOPS

WALTHAM

Easter Gift Vouchers Available

Come & join in the fun at Room 8!

Why not book your appointment today and discover what we are all about...

BEAUTY THERAPY

l Stay young facials (non-surgical facelift) l Waxing l Massage l Electrolysis l Jessica nail products l Geleration (soak-off gel polish) l Acrylic nail service including nail art l Hot stone therapy l Tanning tube l Manicures l Pedicures l Ear piercing l Spray tanning l Open late nights l Microderm abrasion

Visit us at 8 Locks Heath Centre, Locks Heath, Southampton SO31 6DX

www.room8-hair.co.uk 01489 582660 MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk ‌5

Shoe Deck Shoes for all ages NEW SPRING/SUMMER STOCK NOW IN!!!

Hotter Shoes Stockist Dude Shoes Ultra light, ultra comfortable Continental style Children’s shoes Beautiful children’s Wellies, raincoats and bags in many styles for girls and boys Range of fashionable Quality, affordable ladies footwear for this season School Shoes stocked

Visit us at 8 Marine Parade West, Lee on the Solent Open Monday to Saturday 10am - 5pm. Closed Sunday Telephone 02392 551555

Kitchenaid Promotion Hamble Lifeboat was formed in 1968 as the Southampton Water Inshore Rescue Service (Hamble Rescue).

Since its inception the service has attended, on average, 100 incidents per year, day and night, 365 days a year, in all weather conditions.

The service has also evolved from having a small dory to having 2 of the most powerful 32ft ribs in service in the UK. The next challenge for the service is to replace our very run down lifeboat station, for which we now have been granted planning permission.

The current building has no hot water, showers, or heating/ changing facilities, and nowhere to hang safety kit or a room to store it properly. The station is physically too small for the lifeboats which need to be virtually dismantled to get them into the station for maintenance.

We are one of over 60 independant units around the UK coast.

The crew is made up of volunteers who give their time and effort with the very vital support of their families. If you think you could support the service then please visit our website at www.hamblelifeboat.co.uk or come and see us on station every Saturday or Sunday morning before the crew go out on patrol.

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.co.uk • MARCH 2013

Free glass bowl with every Artisan tilt-head stand mixer 18th February - 7th April 2013 • T’s & C’s apply

A beautiful FREE glass bowl (worth £61) with every Artisan® Stand Mixer purchased.

While stocks last

www.portsolent.com

Enjoying Easter together…

We have lots of fun activities going on this Easter for you and your children to enjoy.

With the Easter holidays coming, we’ve arranged lots of fun activities to keep your children busy. Run riot at our Easter egg hunt, join our fantastic magic workshop or become a pirate!

Visit www.portsolent.com for full listing.

NEW MOKKA

DON'T BLEND IN FROM £15,395

WARRANTY 100,000 MILE

Picador Plc Winchester 01962 861947

Picador Plc Lyndhurst 02380 283823

Picador Plc Chandlers Ford 02380 255432

Picador Plc Sholing 02380 449232

Official Government Test Environmental Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO 2 emissions (g/km). Mokka Tech Line: Urban: 33.6 (8.4), Extra-urban: 52.3 (5.4), Combined: 43.5 (6.5). CO 2 emissions: 153g/km.

Model shown Mokka Tech Line 1.6i 16v VVT (115PS) FWD Start/Stop £15,995 with Adaptive Forward Lighting £790 and Tri-coat premium pearlescent paint £995. Total OTR cost £17,780. Offer available on orders or registrations between 18.12.12 and 02.04.13. Refer to www.vauxhall.co.uk/offers or contact your local Vauxhall Retailer for details. Vauxhall Lifetime Warranty covers lifetime ownership of first registered keeper, 100,000 mile limit. Terms and conditions apply.

MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …7

EMMA’S Spring stock now in Nuffield Theatre Company / Headlong co-production

THE SEAGULL Anton Chekhov In a new version by John Donnelly Directed by ‘rising star’ Blanche McIntyre

t easal rom S f s g Ba Jute £6.00 2 for s Day other M r o F Ideal

Joules . Seasalt . Pomodoro Emreco . Casamia & many more Huge Selection of Scarves & Jewellery Open Monday - Saturday 10 - 5pm 187 High Street . Lee on the Solent . PO13 9BX 023 9255 2248

11– 20 April 2013

A play about unrequited love…

023 8067 1771

/nuffieldtheatre

www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk

@nuffieldtheatre

Help us get Hampshire back to work Volunteers and employers needed Are you a good listener? Are you a great communicator?

Volunteer to help others in your local area: •

Give two hours or more each month.

•

Develop your own coaching and mentoring skills.

•

Share your skills and career experience.

Become a volunteer with the charity Careers Development Group and help reduce unemployment in your community.

We have centres in Southampton, Portsmouth, Basingstoke, Fareham, Aldershot and Newport (Isle of Wight).

Visit www.cdgvolunteers.com or call 0300 247 2222.

Employers: we can help you

The charity is keen to support employers in Hampshire to help them find the right staff for their business. Save time and money by working with our experienced and dedicated employer engagement team to fulfil your recruitment needs.

To find out more about our cost-free services, contact Lisa Gonҫalves at recruitment.south@cdguk.org or call 0300 247 2415.

Shaw Trust and Careers Development Group have merged to form a charity building on the successes of both organisations.

This project is part-financed by the European Social Fund.

Careers Development Group | Carlton Plaza l 111 Upper Richmond Road l Putney l London SW15 2TJ Registered charity no. 285251 Registered company no. 1647371

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.co.uk • MARCH 2013

WWW.LEADARTS.COM

● All breeds catered for ● Bath and Brush ● Bath and trim ● Full groom ● Nail trimming ● Anal glands

COMPETITIVE PRICES Leave your dog in our care with confidence

Introductory Offer

s 15% OFF Grooming Service 2013

Only with this advert. Offer

INFO@LEADARTS.COM

ends 31st March

Botley Road . Bishops Waltham . Southampton . SO32 1DR

01489 892760

Andrew Collins Kitchen Design LTD

Your Dream, My Passion

We are a family run company who specialise in fitting quality rigid kitchens to suit all budgets. We will project manage all aspects of the fitting from start to finish and for your total peace of mind we are proud members of Tel: 02392 552914 87 High St • Lee on the Solent • PO13 9BU Opening Times: Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm www.andrew-collins.com Kitchens

Appliances

Sinks & Taps MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …9

the | walk

historic RESERVE Just ten minutes walk from the centre of Winchester with its everyday hustle and bustle is a much gentler side to the city, a nature reserve with a one mile circular walk, which will soothe the soul and lessen the heartbeat.

It is a wonderful mixture of reed beds, meadow, chalkstream and wet woodland with a wide range of wildlife as well as a history dating back to medieval times.

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.co.uk • MARCH 2013

Winnall Moors Nature Reserve once belonged to Hyde Abbey and there was even a small chapel, St Gertrude’s, built within the meadows. The reserve as it is known today was first shaped back in the 17th and 18th centuries when it was used as floating water meadows. This was a network of ditches and streams that were excavated to allow sheep to graze on the rich and lush grass. The meadows have never been carved by plough, nor fertilized and so an immensely rich variety of flora has developed on the reserve.

This is a small, but stunning, and well managed reserve and a mile walk may not at first, seem worth the effort but I have yet to visit when I have not completed a second or third circuit and many a time even just turned around and reversed the route from my normal anti-clockwise to clockwise circumnavigation in order to get a different view of things or spot more wildlife. In fact, once under its rustic wooden arch it is a tough place to actually leave.

The track is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs but dogs are not welcome because of the wildlife.

On entering the Winnall Moors Reserve it is the sound that first hits, in the distance church bells ring out making this feel very much like an area on the outskirts of a village, but over the tinny clang of those bells comes a cacophony of bird calls, finches, tits, nuthatches, tree creepers and robins, all chirp and sing out from the naked branches of the trees and shrubs. By the time our Solent Life readers take this walk, those same stripped branches will be sporting leaf buds ready to burst open into rich and green foliage as spring takes hold.

Walking anti-clockwise a winding, twisting snake of a boardwalk travels through the golden stems of the reed beds where you may see roe deer, warblers and long tailed tits. At the end of the boardwalk a rustic carved bench sits on the edge of the river, this is where the Itchen, the navigational canal and tributaries meet to feed the meadows and reed beds. This bench is also another good spot for deer watching as a family of roe are often seen on the opposite bank of the river.

The Itchen and its network of smaller streams are what have shaped the reserve and it is an internationally important chalk stream protected under European law and is an important habitat for the otter where this charming but visually elusive animal can find refuge and an abundance of food. Keen eyes may also, when lucky, spot the water vole, still our most endangered mammal, but one of the cutest creatures to view on any walk. The vole will normally be seen at the edges of the river bank eating or just collecting the vegetation; it is always easy to spot where they have been for they bite the vegetation away at a forty five degree angle, strange but true.

the | walk

Winnall Moors truly is an escape...

Further along the pathway the opposite bank opens out onto a cleared area where raptors often hunt; a dead tree offering a very suitable perch. Red and black-tailed kite, kestrel, buzzard and even the occasional peregrine can be seen on thermals, or hovering, while seeking prey before they plummet down on the attack.

At many places along the river it is also easy to spot low branches from where kingfishers dive and feed; water rail scamper into the undergrowth and moorhen and coot swim, feed and nest.

The pathway turns and curves on its circular route through the reserve and always keeps company with the streams and river. As the open walkway ducks under the cover of some trees there is a concrete block on the edge of the stream which looks as if it once supported a bridge. One of the friendly and informative wardens told me that in fact it was once the part of a barrier that enclosed an area of the river as a swimming pool; chilly, no doubt, but a magical place to swim.

On one side of the footpath the swift flowing river, with Winchester a distant memory away, on the other side pools and ponds where there are more chances of seeing kingfisher and vole. Up over a bridge and a lovely spot to stand and watch the river as it rushes through a narrow weir and into a tidal pool where several variety of duck swim and feed.

A small diversion as a pathway to the left ends within a few yards at an observation point in the heart of the reed beds; come springtime and this will be a great spot for bird watching.

Back on the main trail and your walk has come full circle, refreshment may well call you out through the gate and back into the city but for me it is always another circuit or a reverse journey just to see what else swims, flies or wanders into view or to take a different view on the surrounding scenery. It is one of those walks, and one of those places, that just holds onto you until time and life in the real world call you back into its hustle and bustle; Winnall Moors truly is an escape and a delight to walk.

Words & images by David Rose-Massom

The entrance to Winnall Moors Nature Reserve is situated on Durngate Place in Winchester and there is a car park just 50 metres from the entrance.

MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk ‌11

VOLUNTEERS WANTED FOR

RSPCA SOLENT BRANCH Could you spare a few hours for our Animal Shelter?

Would you like to meet new people, make friends and gain new skills whilst making a difference?

We have IMMEDIATE volunteer vacancies for:

STORE COLLECTORS FOR COLLECTING AT LOCAL SUPERMARKETS

At Woodland Court we provide all the necessary amenities to make your every day life as independent and manageable as possible.

Whether you require a short stay, day care or a permanent residence, a warm welcome awaits you, private or government funded

No matter what experience you have we would love to hear from you

We also care for those with dementia, and are happy to cater for special diets.

Contact Vanessa Eden, Fundraising Manager, on

All rooms are en-suite with call bell systems.

01329 666916 • 07880 926751 Stubbington Ark Animal Shelter 174-176 Ranvilles Lane, Fareham, PO14 3EZ

WOODLAND COURT CARE HOME LTD 134 Portchester Road . Fareham . Hampshire . PO16 8QP 01329 233603 . woodlandcourtrh@aol.co.uk . www.bucklandcare.co.uk

www.stubbingtonark.org.uk Registered charity 205096

Jewellery & Silversmithing courses In a beautiful setting with views over the Meon Valley, join us in our working studio to learn new skills and explore your creativity.

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Weekly Classes Monday or Thursday evenings 7 - 9:30pm Monday mornings 10am - 12:30pm £240 for 12 weeks (plus materials)

We also offer private Jewellery Parties for any occasion Make Your Own Wedding Rings!

Dedicated staff team and in-house activities.

One Day Workshops Saturday 23rd March Saturday 27th April Saturday 18th May 10am - 4pm £75 plus materials

Meon Valley Studio Warnford Hampshire

07939 533 878

courses@meonvalleystudio.com

www.meonvalleystudio.com

Wickham Square Gallery GOLD WANTED

BOUGHT FOR CASH

Wide and varied selection of Antiques, Modern and Second Hand Jewellery, Silverware, Furniture, Porcelain and Collectables

13 The Square, Wickham. 01329 832329

T I F FA N Y S Tiffany dresses are quite simply unique

We stock: AIRFIX, ARISTOCRAFT BACHMANN, CORGI, DAPOL, GRAHAM FARISH, HORNBY, HPI R/C, LILIPUT, METCALFE CARD KITS, PECO, SCALEXTRIC, SPECTRUM, TAMIYA R/C, TOOLS AND PAINTS and MUCH MORE!!

7 High Street, Eastleigh, Hampshire SO50 5LB Opening times Monday - Sunday 9am - 5pm Please feel free to contact us 023 8061 0100 See our website: www.acmodelseastleigh.co.uk 12…

.co.uk • MARCH 2013

Exquisite... collection of outfits for Mother of the Bride or Groom.

New collection of wedding dresses.

Extensive collection of prom dresses.

Hats and Fascinators from £19.99 Outfits for all occasions

T: 01329 662272 7-8 Stubbington Green, Stubbington, PO14 2JG

www.tiffanys-online.co.uk

Day Nurseries that keep the standard

At last...

A Quality Day Nursery in West Wellow, Romsey

Futurepath Childcare is pleased to announce the opening of their second, beautiful, ‘All Inclusive’, ‘All Year Round’, Day Nursery near Romsey.

Call us on

01794 324269 or visit our website

www.fpchildcare.co.uk Futurepath Childcare (Park Gate) Warwick House, Beacon Bottom, Parkgate, Southampton, SO31 7GQ 01489 577778

Futurepath Childcare (Romsey) Chatmohr Estate, Crawley Hill, West Wellow, Romsey, SO51 6AP 01794 324269

MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …13

W

G Co O E N la r F O ss ia FE W w n® R or a kt n d op s

SHAW

STONE

LIMITED SPECIALISTS IN NATURAL STONE

Granite & Quartz worktops Save £££ by coming direct to the factory.

Up to 60% less than high street prices!!

Full templating andfitting service.

Expert advice.

Quick turn around.

FREE SINK & Wide range of granites to choose from.

HALF PRICE TAP & FREE TEMPLATING Factory Showroom open Monday to ON WORKTOP ORDERS Saturday 9am til 5pm.

PLACED UNTIL THE END Glass splashbacks available.

OF MARCH* Quartz Engineered Stone worktops also available.

Natural Stone tiles available.

15 year anti-stain warranty available on all natural stone. *SEE WEBSITE FOR TERMS & CONDITIONS

Call us on 01329 844474 www.shawstone.co.uk

Kingfisher Ridge, Fontley Road, Titchfield, Hampshire. PO15 6QS

Halladay’s at

The Elm Tree Swanwick

Good Quality food served daily Lunch menu 11.30am - 2pm Evening food served from 6pm - 9pm Sunday Roasts a must Served 12 noon - 7.30pm . £8.95 Breakfast soon to be available at weekends or try

Halladay’s Tea Room at 6 Bedford Place . t: 023 8033 4474 1 Swanwick Lane . Swanwick Southampton . SO31 7DX

01489 579818

The Miners Arms FAMOUS FISH & CHIP RESTAURANT AND TAKE-AWAY MOTHER KELLY’S UNIQUE FISH & CHIP RESTAURANT AND TAKE-AWAY IS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 11.30AM - 11PM. ● All fish skinned and boned ● Traditional grilled breakfast served daily 9am-11.30am ● Gluten free menu 1st Monday of the month, see in shop for details

221 SOUTHAMPTON ROAD, PAULSGROVE

Tel 023 9221 9149 20 NORTH STREET, EMSWORTH (TAKE-AWAYS ONLY)

Tel 01243 375859

Coach parties by appointment • Large orders up to 250 portions DELIVERED FREE 14…

.co.uk • MARCH 2013

The Miners Arms 112 Funtley Road, Funtley Fareham, PO17 5EF T: 01329 232065

Mothering Sunday & Easter Sunday Roast Beef / Lamb or Half a Roast Chicken + Dessert for £9.95

12 - 4pm Book now to avoid disappointment

E C I F F O

All your office furniture requirements

HOME OFFICE FURNITURE SPECIALISTS

Tel: 01329 822522 Unit 6, Axis Park, Fort Fareham Industrial Estate, Newgate Lane, Fareham, Hants. PO14 1AH

NA Griffiths Butchers Traditional Quality Butchers

A Large Selection of Special occasion wear, christening Wear, toys, gifts and accessories Classic, Traditional & Designer Baby & Childrenswear for little Boys & Girls - 0-8

we also stock premature babyware. gift baskets in stock and available to order loyalty cards available free parking free gift wrapping

014 8 9 785 829 22 High Street, Botley

ALL SEASONS FRUITERERS Established in 1988 within the High Street, All Seasons Fruiterers has relied on the Community support and emphasis has always been on sourcing whenever possible, local produce.

With the benefit of the butchers, bakers, fish shop and greengrocers, the united choice has gone against the trend of losses within Communities nationwide.

Independent retailers such as the many to be found in Lee, together form the basis for a sustainable future.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING LOCAL SHOPS

Say it with an All Seasons Gift Token

Hampshire Beef

Local and Independently Owned Butchers

Hampshire & Dorset Pork Hampshire & Romsey Lamb All meat is traceable

131 High Street . Lee On The Solent . PO13 9BU

All Seasons Fruiterers 023 9255 3335

023 9255 0117

135 • High Street • Lee-on-the-Solent • PO13 9BU

All subject to availability . Telephone orders welcome MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …15

PLATINUM SALES

All holiday homes bought & sold Statics, Tourers & Motorhomes of the highest quality Best prices paid Large amount of stock available Caravan transportation Free transport up to 100 miles - price is negotiable on further distances

Ideal caravans available for holidays, farmers & self builds

Please call 01329 510312 ◆ 07570 456278 Viewing appointments available - please call to book Sales Suite open 9am - 5pm daily We also offer a Transport & Siting service.

We are fully licensed and insured and have vehicles of moving even the largest of park homes.

Friendly, CITO qualified 16…fully qualified.co.uk • MARCH 2013 capable staff ensuring safe transportation and siting of your holiday and park homes.

We buy and sell used holiday homes and park homes at amazing prices!

Our stock of caravans is constantly changing and consists of 10ft, 12ft and 14ft wide caravans and twin units.

Give us a call today!

JOIN HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE AND CHANGE THE FACE OF AGEING From a one hour a week to 24 hours a day, Home Instead’s services are designed for people who need help to live independently. Home Instead Senior Care Southampton, based in Park Gate, was set up by Luisa Castle in 2010.

The philosophy is simple, to offer the best possible care to seniors. Luisa said, “We are passionate about providing the highest standard of person-centred care. Our ethos is straightforward – treat others as we would wish to be treated ourselves. We support our clients and their families meet the challenges of aging with dignity, pride, and compassion.

Because each family is different, our approach is flexible, individualised and accommodating. Our reputation is unrivalled.

The only way to deliver a professional, quality service is by listening to what our clients want and empowering the right people to build trusting relationships.”

We need reliable staff to visit a client for a minimum of one hour to assist them with daily living tasks. It could involve a walk in the park or to help someone to start their day. You must own a car and be a driver. Part time hours only. If you have time on your hands and want to make a difference to an individual, then visit our website to find out more, www.homeinstead.co.uk/ southampton. Call us on 01489 559007.

MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …17

House Martin Heating Gas Heating and Plumbing

Your complete heating & plumbing service

SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS

226 198

• Full Central Heating Installations

or just a bit of peace and quiet?

Our attractive all-in-one Garden Rooms could be the answer!

Built to last and expertly installed including insulation, electrics, heating, security & much more.

Give us a call on: 01329 319276 or 07920 773198 for more information or a quote, email: john@southwicks.co.uk www.southwicks.co.uk

• Boiler Change and System Upgrades • Servicing & Breakdowns on all types of Gas Appliance • Landlord Safety Certificates issued • Free Quotes, all work Guranteed & Fully Insured

Beat price the 201 3 by b increase oo earlyking

• All Major Credit & Debit Cards Accepted 7 YEAR GUARANTEE ON VAILLANT HIGH EFFICIENT BOILERS

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The best wheel refurbishment there is...!

The Wheel Specialist Fareham was established in 2007 by husband and wife team Vernon and Sarah Kerr. As soon as you talk to either of them, or explore the premises with wheels stacked high, you get a sense that you will be getting the best treatment and product available. You can tell that they’re passionate about what they do and determined not to run ‘just another’ wheel refurbishment company.

Each year a conference is held by their Head Office for all the branches to get together - of which there are 17. New ideas are discussed and launched, and awards presented for achievement.

Sarah and Vernon were thrilled to be presented with the Best Overall Branch 2012 and Best Sales and Marketing 2012, which is an incredible achievement.

What do they contribute to their success? Sarah comments, “We insist that our customer experience is unsurpassed, providing a level of service which encourages our customers to return and recommend us to others. We have a terrific team run by Adam who has been with us from the beginning. We are launching several new services this year – it’s a very exciting time.”

Holly Kerr, one of their daughters, also works for the business customising wheels. “We are not a typical back street tyre/ wheel business – come and see for yourself! Customers are actively encouraged to come and have look at what we do and how we can help, you’ll be pleasantly surprised!”

www.thewheelspecialist.co.uk

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The Comedy Theatre Company in association with Quirky Media Stuff with thanks to FremantleMedia presents

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Residential Conveyancing Family Law • Mediation AWD Law LLP is a company with a difference based in Fareham, Hampshire.

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restaurant | review

A

TWIST

ON TRADITION The last time we ate at the Broadstreet Restaurant, part of Meon Valley, A Marriott Hotel and Country Club complex, it was Sunday lunch on a bright summer’s day, this time it was a wintery evening with sleet falling from dark skies. Would the outcome be just as pleasant?

Words by David Rose-Massom

24…

.co.uk • MARCH 2013

roasted winter vegetable and of course a ‘sweep’ of bread sauce.

Being a winter evening I wanted something hearty and warming so it was the Broadstreet Cottage Pie that attracted me, topped with horseradish mash and served simply with purple sprouting broccoli.

Both dishes managed easily to exceed their description, the chicken moist and tender superb with the roughish texture of the bread sauce. The glazed vegetables crisp and yet well cooked, a side dish of cauliflower cheese was also an excellent addition. The cottage pie was piping hot, the mash topping creamy and adding a nice alternative texture, while in the dish, flakes of tender meat and soft mushrooms added to the medley of taste.

Onto dessert and again a traditional dish with a modern twist; Bread and Butter Pudding, a true classic that no-one should dare tamper with, but it was aided by orange custard.

I have to admit it was stunning, it was an historic dessert; the citrus flavouring of the custard really did add a delicious refreshing difference.

Dave went for the Milk Chocolate and Mint Cheesecake served with marinated strawberries; an amazing looking dish as the mint was served as a jelly which went through the dark wedge of cheesecake like a thin green window. The dish was soft, delicate and again refreshing without being too rich.

We were full, heartily warmed and sated by our three courses, which was almost a shame as Broadstreet offer a marvellous cheese board packed with local award winning cheeses such as Lyburn Gold, Rosary goats’ cheese or a Barkham Blue or Tunworth.

If you are nervous of entering a hotel in order to use the restaurant facilities, don’t be as you would be missing out on a charming restaurant that serves some amazing dishes at a very reasonable price. Our three courses, without drinks, came in at under £35 a head, which is excellent value, add to that the warm and cosy surroundings and the excellent service and you have a fine dining room that offers the very best in classical cuisine with just a slight modern twist every now and again… Highly recommended!

Meon Valley, A Marriott Hotel and Country Club Sandy Lane, Shedfield SO23 2HQ 01329 833 455 www.marriottmeonvalley.co.uk

Buy 1 Main Meal Get 1 Free Valid 1 March 2013 - 31 May 2013 Available Tuesday - Saturday inclusive, subject to availability Table reservations required, not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Voucher must be presented when dining.

Name:

Email address:

 Please tick the box if you do not wish to receive any offers or promotions from Meon Valley Marriott Hotel and Country Club Meon Valley, A Marriott Hotel and Country Club, Sandy Lane, Shedfield SO23 2HQ 01329 833 455 www.marriottmeonvalley.co.uk MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …25

restaurant | review

Traditionally hotels can be a little stuffy when it comes to service in their dining areas but Michaela Hillan, the Food and Beverage Manager, who oversees the restaurant is a bright and bubbly personality and that warm character is reflected by her well-trained, knowledgeable and friendly staff. A warm welcome on a cold and miserable evening is always a good start to proceedings!

Broadstreet Restaurant is a charming dining room where the décor is brown and creams and slightly rustic but with a polished edge, the open fire is warming and attractive and yet totally modern in design making the room an indicator of what we would find on the menu; tradition with a twist.

Warm and tasty bread, with some flavoured swirls of butter (try the pesto) were followed by an amuse-bouche delivered from the kitchen. A few spoonfuls of Parsnip Soup; served in a cup and saucer, with a dash of honey crèmefraiche and accompanied with a few ribbons of parsnip chips, delicious. My dining partner for the evening, Solent Life Editor Dave Hill, stated it was so nice he could ‘eat it all night, and I had to agree that it certainly had the taste buds placed nicely in the starting blocks for a great meal!

For a starter Dave went for a traditional Prawn Cocktail, but was keen to discover what the Broadstreet tag to the dish offered. He was pleasantly surprised when a small tower of cocktail, topped with a trio of plump prawns was delivered to the table. It was an elegant dish that offered all the texture and flavour of the traditional and yet with the chef’s contemporary twist.

For me it was the Pigeon Breast, deliciously pink and tender and served on a bed of mushrooms and accompanied by celeriac puree and a light sherry jus. It carried a gentle hint of game but still managed to be light and also delicate in its flavours and textures.

Main courses were a problem but only with choice and our waitress, who knew the menu intimately, described some of the dishes in her soft Welsh accent. The descriptions on paper, and from her, were mouth-watering and a decision took some reaching. In the end the lure of one of Dave’s favourite things, bread sauce, had him deciding on the CornFed Chicken Breast, sage and onion stuffing, castle potato,

coast | country

In another life, many years ago as a young man, it was a favourite weekend jaunt to drive along the coast to Brighton and enjoy the pasta dishes in one of the newest; and trendiest restaurant, Browns (which opened in 1973). The food and atmosphere were great and any young lady along for the adventure would always be suitably impressed.

Browns in Ship Street is still there and is now a smart restaurant and bar, a couple of doors along however is the Blackbird Tearooms and there is no better place to begin a retrovisit to the south coast town that is eponymous with days out, weekends away and the quaint charm of the British seaside town.

This tearoom has staff dressed smartly in black and white, vintage style hair and make up are part of that uniform as is the smart service; while hanging on the walls are ancient black and white photographs of a long-ago time.

When Solent Life held its monthly editorial meeting about this month’s features only one destination sprang from everyone’s lips with regard to a vintage or retro destination; Brighton’s Lanes!

Back to my youth, and The Lanes were a winding, intersecting warren of narrow walkways lined with shops selling artefacts, jewellery, trendy and mostly poorly made clothes and it is where I purchased my one and only afghan coat. Today those Lanes are still there and still fun to explore, except now they have become more of a tourist haunt than the place to be seen. That title now belongs to a collection of narrow streets, that are closed off to traffic on a Saturday; the North Laines (and yes they are spelt with an ‘i’ in the middle).

This is the Bohemian heart of Brighton were street vendors and shops sell vinyl long playing records and vintage clothing stores sell all sorts of objet d’art and wanders alongside jewellery shops and cafes.

Classic rock and soul music drifts through the doorways of corner shops that sell ‘old-stuff’, trendy stuff, classic comic books and even a hardware store called Berts that sells everything you will never need; so if you ever need a potato peeler or washing up brush shaped like a lime-green animal then you will know where to go!

In between the shops, whose wares spill out onto the street at every opportunity, are cafes and bars, that serve home made cakes as well as flavoured teas and coffees. Then while sitting inside or out on a street table, you can watch the strange world of Brighton walk past, characters of every conceivable description stroll by, mingling with families and hand-holding couples and it all seems so natural and normal. One weekend not long ago I sat outside of a café and watched a couple of thousand fancy-

26…

.co.uk • MARCH 2013

coast | country

dressed zombies hobble past on their way toward the seafront; and even that seemed normal!

In every shop, store, stall and café, the service is as old fashioned and vintage as the stock and décor. Polite, efficient and most of all friendly, except for one particularly scruffy junk shop where the owner would make Basil Faulty appear efficient and Victor Meldrew look happy– there has never been a more miserable and grumpy person behind the counter and yet there is something charming and suitable about even him and his cluttered emporium. It adds to the charm that makes the North Laines so special.

If vintage clothing is your thing then, apart from all the smaller shops, in Vine Street there is Beyond Retro, which is a massive store filled to the brim with wonderful clothes, shoes and accessories, it is as if their was a Mary Quant and Biba explosion back in the 70s and these were the survivors. I rarely visit without buying something.

Each time you visit the North Laines there will be something new to find, some new experience or some new sight that will make you smile. On one recent trip along the coast I discovered a small Farmer’s Market and café tucked away in a yard, not one of the best it has to be said but still a great place to find hippy market gardeners selling their produce and a café tucked away at one end. It is open every Saturday and joins dozens of other occasional traders that suddenly appear on the street with fold away table and clothes rails.

Admittedly it’s not all family entertainment as you will discover the odd sex shop thrown into the mix, but even these seem nonoffensive and just cheeky, a little like the saucy postcard on the racks amidst the seascape postcard and kiss-me-quick hats.

Brighton always has been, and hopefully always will be, a great place to visit; characters aplenty to enjoy and raise a smile on your face, shops that sell everything; and yes including the kitchen sink, and then there is the sea air to refresh and replenish jaded spirits. What it also has over and above all the other towns along our coastline is atmosphere, there is always something happening, even when nothing is happening, there is always some bright colour or thing to catch the eye and entertain and should it rain, great museums, theatres and, of course, the wonderful Pavilion.

If you feel the need to step back in time, to regain your youth or even just have a change of scenery there is no better place to visit than the Bohemian atmosphere, colour, vibrancy and feel of the North Laines in Brighton!

www.northlaine.co.uk North Laines is an area that grew up in the 1830s when Brighton first became famous because the Prince Regent turned a modest farmhouse into a glittering exotic royal palace. In the mile between the Pavilion and Brighton station you will find 300 shops, 37 cafes, 22 pubs, 4 theatres and a worldclass museum. North Laine is also home to the cultural centre of Brighton with the new library and piazza in the jubilee complex.

Words & images by David Rose-Massom MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …27

feature | travel

Kiwi Encounter Picture yourself sitting by the pool relaxing after a hard days sight-seeing, a good book in one hand and your favourite tipple in the other, around you are the well manicured lawns of a subtropical garden with views of the Coromandel Hills and Firth of Thames. You wander indoors via the terrace, through the patio doors to be welcomed by the open stone fire, beamed ceiling and antique furniture of this most beautiful of Guest lounges.

Welcome to New Zealand...

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New Zealanders are a naturally open and friendly society, keen to share their personal experience and knowledge of their local 28…

.co.uk • MARCH 2013

area, this can be a massive bonus picking up little tit bits of advice (such as avoiding tourist traps) that help you to get the best out of your holiday time. Many of the homes will treat you like long lost friends rather than paying guests, offering you the option to dine with them in the evening or to partake in local events, giving you the kind of holiday memories that will live with you forever.

Variety is the spice of life and you get plenty of that with so many different styles of accommodation, one day you will find yourself waking up to glorious views across a picturesque bay whilst staying at a state of the art lodge perched high on a cliff top and the next you will be opening your curtains to views of rolling

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Amity World Travel has been trading since 1970 and has been based at its current location in Segensworth since 1994. This unusual location for a travel agency offers a “non shop” setting where clients are welcome to drop in (often by appointment), and meet with a consultant who can take as much time as is needed to discuss your plans over a coffee, suggest a variety of options and make the necessary arrangements in quiet and relaxed surroundings.

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4 Manor Court, Barnes Wallis Road, Segensworth East, Fareham, PO15 5TH MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …29

feature | travel

hills and farmland before heading off for breakfast on the terrace of a very rustic homestead from a bygone era. Farming is big part of the way of life in New Zealand and many of the farms have opened themselves up to the public offering you the chance to stay on a working farm, where you can try your hand at milking the cows, feeding the chickens or just take a guided walk. Eco-Lodges are at the forefront of modern tourism and New Zealand is leading the way here too, these self sustainable lodges offer a very different stay to anything else on offer and are a welcome addition to any holiday. So while hotels have their place, with such a variety of accommodation as you work your way around the stunning landscape of these beautiful islands there really is no excuse for staying in identical hotel rooms night after night.

If you would like to walk the stunning beaches of the Abel Tasman, go wine tasting in the vineyards of Marlborough, take a cruise along the Doubtful Sound, hike across a glacier or just relax on the beaches of the Coromandel, in fact the list is endless, and top it all off by staying in some of the most welcoming and friendly accommodation, then you need to make an appointment to discuss your holiday ideas with Jeff, Sue & Elaine at Amity World Travel, experts in bespoke travel and itineraries of the Southern Hemisphere.

test | motorhome

Boys and their toys! Well, when your toy is nearly seven metres long and as much fun moving as it is when staying still; then it is a toy that every boy (and his family) should have!

It was my turn at the front of the queue when Marquis Motorhomes from Lower Upham, just outside Bishop’s Waltham, called Solent Life and asked if we would like to have one of their luxury motorhomes for a weekend. How could we refuse?

Next, where to take it for the weekend? So, in the middle of February as grey skies parted to give us a full weekend of sunshine, and fully aware I needed a safe hard standing to park on following a winter of rain, I gave the nice lady at Sandy Balls in the New Forest a call and she said we would be most welcome to visit their brilliant facilities.

Bedding and some food supplies on board I took the perilous journey across the south coast from Gosport to just this side of Fordingbridge, it was not the hair-raising journey I expected it to be

30…

.co.uk • MARCH 2013

though. In fact it was an amazingly pleasant and easy drive as the Swift motorhome, built on a Fiat body, was incredibly easy to drive and very steady on the motorway, especially in cruise control. My passenger had a heightened view of the world as it went by and I felt in total control The Lifestyle 686 six berth motorhome is 22ft 8in long and a little wider than your average car but after a few corners, and getting used to using the large wing-mirrors to great effect, driving really is a breeze. The gear change is dashboard mounted just inches from your left hand and so even changing gear is a comfortable manoeuvre.

My only gripe; the sound of the cooker tray, just behind my left ear rattling but no doubt any new motorhome owner would soon find a way of dampening that rattle during travel.

test | motorhome

From motorway and through the New Forest, my only qualm, cyclists – mow them down or drive round them? They were enjoying the sunshine as much as I was, and it was a new motorhome after all; so giving them plenty of room I discovered it took only a little more care and patience than when driving my car to go around them in perfect and confident safety.

Booking in at Sandy Balls, named after the mounds of sand that are around the campsite was easy. The bay outside the booking-in office is ample for all touring caravans, the staff are friendly and fun – you are on holiday after all, and they even have a map ready guiding you to your own pre-booked bay.

It was time to check out my reversing skills, ample room again so even the greenest novice will have no problem backing into the clearly marked gravel bays. Hook up the electric, connect the hose and load up the tank with fresh water, then head to the Piazza for a drink at the onsite pub (driving was over for the weekend) or a very tasty cappuccino in the Italian restaurant. Suitably refreshed it was time for one of the many weekend walks through the New Forest.

I make it sound simple, that’s because it was. I was half-expecting to get into the wilderness and with some tips from Ray Mears, build a bivouac, collect logs for the fire and brew strong tea in my billy-can.

Instead I poured fresh water from the tap, lit the gas ring, used my on-board toilet facilities, then after washing hands, lit the gas fire, made coffee and sat in the warmth of a comfortable lounge area and watched the world go by through the large windows.

Come darkness and I now had fear in my heart, not of being attacked by flying insects or roaming wild beasts, but more the fear of the old fashioned hard caravan beds, the last time I used a camper was in my early windsurfing days and they were anything but comfortable! Yes, they are firm but with a fitted sheet they were held together, so no falling down the gaps, and I had a peaceful and very comfortable night’s sleep, helped of course by copious amounts of clean, fresh, air. I could have had breakfast in Sandy Balls’ Piazza but that seemed wrong when I had all the facilities on board and some bacon and eggs in the fridge.

An early breakfast over it was time for another walk as the sun rose above the tree line. Although it was just the two of us for our winter weekend away there is more than enough space for four adults or a family of six to get on well and not get under each other’s feet.

There is everything you need on board, once you have added the personal touches of bedding, towels, crockery and cutlery etc and you do not even need to use the site’s excellent shower facility, your home

away from home has its own that is even big enough for me at well over six feet tall.

I felt like an adventurer, a man of the world, off to discover new countries and name new species of wild animals, my other half was more sensible, booked a swim at the on-site pool before booking a place in the restaurant before we headed over to the pub for the evening’s live entertainment… It still felt like I was on an adventure though and all less than an hour’s easy drive from my home! www.marquismotorhomes.co.uk/new-motorhomes The Lifestyle 686 is a little under £45,000 new but Marquis Motorhomes currently have a special offer that could save you close to £2,000 on that OTR price.

Marquis Hampshire Winchester Road, Lower Upham, Hampshire, SO32 1HA Telephone: 01489 860 666 New and used motorhome sales Fully equipped Service Centre Mechanical/habitation servicing Habitation checks Large valeting facilities Open 7 days a week Monday to Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-5pm & Sunday 10am-5pm.

Our thanks to Sandy Balls for their excellent hospitality while test driving this lovely motorhome www.sandyballs.co.uk/ for full details of location and facilities.

MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …31

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FOR THE INDIVIDUAL

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F ROM THE HEART OF THE N EW F OREST

Fancy a trip down...

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n u f ki

S SAN MORITZ

review | artist

IN

E R

E S ’I

n i i D k S AL V

Dave Thompson is one of the regions best selling artists and when, here at Solent Life, we decided to make this issue our Retro edition he was the first artist we considered featuring.

“I work very closely with Rick at Hiscock’s Gallery in Southsea with regard to what I produce as he has a good handle on what people are liking,” Dave told us at a café just a few yards away from the gallery window that boasted several of his images.

“I always wanted to push to other areas for my images but it was not until someone saw my work in London that I gained a commission for a scene from the capital, then I began to produce other London images. My work seems to take a natural progression as it was also someone that saw my work in the Kings Road and asked me to produce the ski images that had me heading down that route and now there is a whole new range of images that I am thinking of producing.”

Dave used to create air-brushed works of art, 20 to 30 years ago, but he now uses those same techniques on the computer screen with an electronic pen. His amazing and iconic posters reproduce the railway and travel brochures of old and, although they are of modern landmarks, they all carry that retro feel and mood. There is a cleanliness of line and form to his work that makes it old fashioned and yet new and vibrant for the 21st century.

“I just draw on the computer now, it is a tool exactly the same as an airbrush and similar techniques, except it is a lot easier to correct mistakes without starting again, and easier to alter the colours if they do not suit the mood I am looking for.

“When I look at buildings and take references I take note of the mood and of sunsets, it suits images such as Brooklyn Bridge, or blue skies over Portsmouth and Southsea. Sometimes I 36…

.co.uk • MARCH 2013

change the colours slightly to enhance mood. The shadows are important; the shadows are what give it that certain feel and strength; sometimes it is all about the shadows!

“It is not intentional that I keep these iconic buildings and images alive in people’s minds, it is just that I love the simplicity of what I do; and it takes a great deal of work to create that simplicity. It is all flat colour, shadows and blocks but still accuracy is very important.”

Does the success of his work drive him or bother him. “The success pushes me rather than the other way round; I do not produce any image just for the sake of it, or because I just think it will sell well, the subject has to excite me. With my graphics work I have to follow a strict brief from the client but with my art I follow the passion!”

Although Dave Thompson works from photographs he never picks just one angle or view, his work is a compilation of several images. “I don’t just try and recreate a photograph, there is no challenge in that and there has to be a challenge to excite me. I also get a great kick out of seeing my work out there; I was commissioned to create several images for London bus timetables, and I still get a buzz every time I see someone carrying one with my image on the cover.” www.davethompsonillustration.com www.hiscockgallery.co.uk www.whitedoggallery.co.uk

HILSEA LIDO

NEW YORK Words by David Rose-Massom

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Our Artist Review is kindly sponsored by WHITE DOG GALLERY 8 Milvil Court, Milvil Road Lee-on-the-Solent Hampshire, PO13 9LY 023 9255 2255. www.whitedoggallery.co.uk

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DID YOU KNOW? This month we have more quotes from the world of art to inspire and provoke.

We’ve focused on Vincent Van Gogh, a sad figure whose short life was a struggle – yet he still produced over 2,000 works of art. He died from a single gunshot wound (believed to be self-inflicted) at the age of 37.

“As practice makes perfect, I cannot but make progress; each drawing one makes, each study one paints, is a step forward.”

“The emotions are sometimes so strong that I work without knowing it. The strokes come like speech.”

“It is not the language of painters but the language of nature which one should listen to, the feeling for the things themselves, for reality, is more important than the feeling for pictures.”

HARBOUR MASTER

“I dream of painting and then I paint my dream.”

RIVER HAMBLE

SHOREHAM AIRPORT

PRIZE DRAW This month we’re also offering one lucky Solent Life reader, the chance to win a £10 gift voucher to spend in the Gallery. To enter, simply go to our website, click on ‘Solent Life Competition’, fill in your details and submit the form.

We will pick one lucky winner at random. And don’t worry; if you don’t have access to a computer, you can enter by post by simply sending your name, address and phone number on a postcard to the Gallery. Full terms and conditions are on the website or available by post on request.

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review | artist

I am a graphic designer by profession and this is a busy sideline, plus I do produce from commissions, but what began as a way of creating something from local iconic images has now spread further afield to London, New York and now onto skiing posters that have people in them, which is new for me!

health | beauty

Oasis beauty is a fun & lively salon in the heart of Whiteley, we offer a varst range of treatments to make you look & feel beautiful, whether this be a single treatment or a taylor made appointment we are here to assist you, from wedding packages, to prom nights, birthdays, we have something to suit you all...We offer all treatments, from massage - to weight loss treatment!

Here at Oasis, we have 5 high tech toning beds, a great form of exercise, ideal for clients that have difficulty with any restricted movement! Or for those of you that prefer gentle assisted exercise. We also have a Fit-Vibe training machine, a vibration power plate that is great for toning and weight loss!

G-Form is a pain free weight loss therapy using electrolipolysis, which does not reply on muscle stimulation. Each session lasts an hour and you will loose inches!

We use CND products at Oasis, & are very popular in Acrylic nails whether you prefer natural overlays, French tips or Glitter we can offer you a choice. Or if you prefer natural nails we use Shellac, a hybrid nail get that lasts up to 14 days with a mirror shine finish!

Our qualified therapists are trained using Perron Rigot waxes, the best wax in the industry for ‘Intimate waxing’ these waxes have unique, shrink wrapping properties that encapsulate the hair as it dries, for excellent results even on short, shaved & stubborn hair. No mess, No Pain & 100% hygienic & hypo allergenic. Whether you require a Hollywood, Brazilian or a leg wax please try us!

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Lash Extensions- Individual lashes that create length & volume and last up to 6 week with regular maintenance, or alternatively we offer Party lashes that create the same effect & last up to week!

As dermalogica stockists we offer the full retail range of products along side a variety of facials to suit every skin type.

Help combat unwanted skin conditions with the leading brand in the industry!

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‘100% Human Hair, No Glue, No Heat, No Chemicals, No Fuss’ This will be available on Mondays, Wednesdays & Saturdays.

Call 01489 577115 to book.

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• Shape Master High Tech Toning Tables • Fit Vibration Training Machine • Beauty Treatments • High Power Tanning Booths • Acrylic Nail Enhancements For Fingers & Toes • G Form Inch Loss • Microdermabrasion • Aesthetic Beauty Treatments (Dermal Fillers, Line Relaxers, Lip Enhancements) • Ladies Intimate Waxing Specialists • Up To 25% Off Treatments (Mon, Wed & Sat) With Louise

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Visit us at our Lee-on-Solent boutique to start 2013 in style!

Opening Hours Tues – Fri • 10am to 5pm | Sat • 10am to 4pm Out of hours appointments available by arrangement

☎ 02392 552764 167 High Street • Lee-on-the-Solent • Hampshire PO13 9BX www.pslingerie.co.uk

Here at Transition you can find expert professionals who pride themselves on their experience. Not just a hairdressers employing self employed stylists all with many years in the trade under their belt but the beauty staff are all highly trained and experienced.

The salon has been in the heart of Portsmouth for 17 years offering up to the minute treatments at really reasonable prices for it’s unisex clientele, all treatments are market leading brands such O.P.I, GHD, Fake Bake and more....

The owner Debbie McIntyre is proud and passionate and therefore constantly sourcing NEW treatments to offer her clientele and keep her loyal staff motivated. As a permanent cosmetic technician with 17 years experience and 26 years as a therapist she is now on the quest to offer her clients and NEW clients the latest technology in skin tightening the revolutionary RF (radio frequency).

‘We have had great success over the last 3 months and amazing results with clients automatically rebooking after their courses for their monthly maintenance’ says Debbie.

‘As a constant dieter I have just achieved results in my body losing 2 stone on the Dukan diet in 3 months!!! but my face showed this, my double chin and sagging jawline aged me. After my 1st RF session it didn’t look any different but I felt it warm and tighter, as the warmth wore off I was left disappointed until at work the next day the postman said you look fresh. After 5 sessions I am overjoyed new body and new face bring on summer!! Thank you Debbie. See you next month for my maintenance’ Sian - Southsea Debbie believes this treatment will not only sell itself but become a staple on any leading salons price list but as a leader in technology she wants to share this with her clients on a try before you buy basis as she does with many of her slimming & toning treatments.

Her team are offering taster days 2 in March (14th & 28th) & 2 in April (12th & 26th) where you can have a shortened version of a full treatment for just £10!!

Saving £30.

To find out more please see the advert and call the salon to book your £10 taster on 023 9286 2100.

MARCH 2013 •

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health | beauty

SMOOTH

health | beauty

Places are limited so phone today on:

GREAT NEWS FOR THE OVER 40’S WOMAN LADIES, WE GUARANTEE RESULTS! Our exercise centres are an exciting concept in the battle against ageing.

Improved joint mobility and posture, better digestion and sleep patterns, weight loss, figure improvement and increased energy levels, are just some of the benefits reported by hundreds of satisfied clients. Cathy Edwards is the Club Manager of Fareham and we took the opportunity to speak to her to find out more about the success story.

WHY ARE YOUR CENTRES AIMED SPECIFICALLY AT THE OVER 40 AGE GROUP? Cathy: “Younger people are already quite well catered for. There are plenty of health clubs and gymnasiums, aerobics classes, etc. In my experience however, older people find those facilities intimidating. They are full of young, fit bodied people. The staff are very young too. I felt that it was time we over 40’s had a place of our own to keep in shape. We want to exercise as much as younger people, but we don’t feel the need to train like an athlete. We want equipment that is simple to use, even if we are overweight or suffer from arthritis or low back pain. We want instructors that understand our capabilities and facilities that are a little more luxurious and friendly than a typical health club. What we don’t want is blaring pop music. We want a facility that provides the opportunity to relax and socialise. Our clients tell us we have got it just right.”

HOW DID YOU COME TO INVENT MOTORISED EXERCISE AND WHAT IS IT EXACTLY? Cathy: “Motorised exercise is the name of the exercise system used in each centre. There are eight motorised exercise machines and they are motorised to make exercise easy and enjoyable. Each machine is a luxurious armchair and has a different function. It takes just 30 minute to use them all, by which time the whole body has been exercised. Motorised exercise, is fun. However poor a beginner’s condition may be, and regardless of age, anyone can cope with motorised exercise.

DO I HAVE TO PROVE THAT I AM 40 PLUS? Cathy: “No, we have plenty of under 40’s using our centres. We appeal to anyone that wants a gentler way of getting into shape, regardless of their age.

But we do tend to attract the over 40’s in very large numbers at our centres.

That is hardly surprising, is it, as half the population is now in that age bracket.

What pleases me is that we are attracting many clients in their 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and 80’s too.”

CAN MOTORISED EXERCISE REALLY SLOW DOWN AGEING? Cathy: “Motorised exercise can increase fitness, joint mobility and muscular strength by about 20%. Energy levels are substantially increased. Body fat is reduced. Muscle loss is retarded. The risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and thrombosis are reduced. In my book, this adds up to a serious fight back against the ageing process.”

IS FIGURE IMPROVEMENT AND WEIGHT LOSS REALLY IMPORTANT? Cathy: “Average inch loss in the first 12 to 16 weeks can often exceed a full dress size even when no weight loss in involved. Unlike toning tables or conventional resistance machines, motorised exercise allows you to exercise aerobically and to burn fat. Overweight clients follow our unique weight loss plan that guarantees most clients a minimum of half a stone per month reduction. The combination of muscle toning and weight loss make motorised exercise the most effective figure improvement programme ever devised.”

01329 231229 fareham@energieffw-club.com www.effw.co.uk

3 day FREE pass

Please complete this form and phone ahead to activate the FREE pass which will be required upon each visit.

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Name: Address: Postcode: Occupation: Tel: Mob: Email: Activation date (office use only): Activate your FREE 3 day guest pass today!

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www.bellabrideandball.co.uk 40…

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Are you on track for a comfortable retirement?

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Beauty Treatments Mothers Day Offers

Shellac Nails - £18 . Luxury Manicure & Pedicure - £19 Facials - £15 . Book your 30 minute facial and receive a FREE shape and polish

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Although retirement can seem like a lifetime away the sooner you get saving the more comfortable your retirement is likely to be. Similarly it is vital your arrangements are regularly reviewed to ensure you are on track to reach your retirement goals.

Pensions - Investments - Mortgages - Protection For all your financial needs call us now on 01489 574355 Sheila Tarr I.F.S. 54 Botley Road, Park Gate, Southampton, Hampshire SO31 1BB Fax: 01489 576095 | Email: informer@sheilatarr.co.uk | Web: www.sheilatarr.co.uk

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Sheila Tarr I.F.S. is the trading name of Sheila Tarr Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

There may be a fee for mortgage advice, the precise amount of the fee will depend upon your circumstances but we estimate that it will be £250

A Perfect Choice for Fashion

Zandra Rhodes Bags Jewellery by Danielle Albèrt Perfume by Frank Lyman New French and Italian Collections Next Fashion Show 22nd April at the Concorde Club Midday Drinks Reception and Fashion Show at 1pm Proceeds to Special Olympics

Tel: 01489 570560 48 Warsash Road - Warsash - Southampton Open Tuesday - Saturday 10am-4pm www.rhianfashionhouse.co.uk MARCH 2013 •

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Say hello to...

Sensu’Elle MARCH 2013 •

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Burlesque!

Burlesque! - doesn’t the word express its meaning so well? It is playful and just a little bit risqué... much like the art form itself, which is not just about stripping, but about the art of removing clothes.

The word burlesque first appeared in print in the 16th century where it referred to a grotesque imitation of the dignified or pathetic. Since then it has morphed from the musical theatre parody of Victorian times to become synonymous with what today is a stylish, sometimes humorous, strip- tease; but all done in the best possible taste. In the last few years it has become something of a craze, with sales of suspender belts and corsets rocketing as women apparently rediscover their sensuous side.

One such woman is Victoria Hardie also known as Sensu’Elle.

Victoria discovered burlesque in 2009 when, bored with the gym treadmill, she took some classes and soon found she was a natural. Her debut at the end of term show led to an invitation from a promoter to perform in his show and so her burlesque career began. Solent Life talked to Victoria... and Sensu’Elle, and discovered there is a lot more to burlesque than meets the eye!

During the day Victoria is a wife, mother of three and Director of a Construction Company. As she says “I find I am confined within, and restricted to my daily roles, labels and responsibilities, but as 44…

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Sensu’Elle, I can actually be anything I want to be and give full expression and free rein to my suppressed sexuality, which is the most liberating experience indeed.”

For those of us who cannot imagine being able to transform from the normal role we inhabit to a femme fatale, Victoria advises it requires a certain confidence in the person you become when on stage. Burlesque performers are glamorous, wearing beautiful bespoke costumes, many covered with Swarovski crystals. As a performer, donning these stunning dresses allows Victoria to adopt a different persona: “As soon as I put on my make-up, do my hair and dress in my costume I actually become Sensu’Elle, who is far more elegant, graceful and confident than Victoria is!”

Many may see burlesque and strip-tease as one and the same, but there is a fundamental difference in the intent, as well as the actual act. Whilst strip-tease is, as a rule, about removing clothing quickly and without too much finesse, the burlesque performer uses artistry, oftentimes creating a humorous story line and never “reveals all”, indeed some performers remove only

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a glove. There is a great deal of creativity in the shows; from the costumes to the choreography and music, and this is what makes it an art form rather than a glamorous bit of bump and grind.

Sensu’Elle’s performances take place in a variety of locations, from pubs and clubs to cabaret bars, theatres, private and charity functions. What is perhaps surprising is that the audiences tend to be mainly female, and they take the opportunity to dress up

in their vintage wear and be a part of the whole evening. The majority are well informed fans of burlesque and are far from the raucous, rowdy lad’s only crowd you might expect. Indeed, for Victoria, it is something of a family affair. Her parents and husband attend her shows, her son sometimes acts as D.J; and it is only with the help of her husband, parents and children that she is able to balance her daily life with being a burlesque performer... it requires some juggling and support from her family to be both Victoria and Sensu’Elle.

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And if that is not enough, Victoria has co-authored a book – Burlesque Beauty, with Chris Jones, a photographer, and local writer Brian Matthews. Two years in the making, it focuses on eight burlesque performers, one of which is Sensu’Elle, and captures not only the glamour and exuberance of the shows, but the incredible detail and behind the scenes preparation that goes into the performances. What is obvious from talking to Victoria is that burlesque is very much about the enjoyment of the performer and the pride that is taken in the craft, which is what makes the shows, as Victoria says, “Very jovial, very energised and very happy” Victoria’s journey with burlesque has also taken her from performer to instructor; she now runs classes which appeal to women of all shapes, sizes, age and background. Victoria explains the appeal; “My classes are not aimed at getting ladies to perform on stage, though the opportunity is there if they want it. The classes are about learning to feel comfortable with your own body and embracing your own femininity so that the feeling of confidence can then be carried over into daily life. Certainly learning to hold oneself more confidently and carry oneself in an elegant, more ladylike way is incredibly empowering, and for me it is so rewarding to watch an initially timid lady evolve into a confident sexual goddess after just six weeks.”

And that sounds good to me girls!

For more information on Sensu’Elle and her classes go to: www. sensu-elle.co.uk.

Burlesque Beauty is available from Amazon and Tomahawk Films

LABURNUM GROVE

Weds 13th - Sat 23rd March 2013 Did you just say earn an honest penny?

J B Priestly’s ‘immoral comedy’ is brought to life in this new version. A well-to-do suburban householder is fed up with his sponging relatives and tells them a secret that will ultimately explode family values and their view of him.

A

thriller comedy... or

a

WHERE: ST MARGARETS ARTS, ST. MARGARETS LANE, TITCHFIELD PO14 4BG. TIME: START AT 7.30PM. TICKETS: MON – THURS £9. FRI & SAT £11. MATINEES £9.

DISCOUNTS: £1 OFF FOR STUDENTS, SENIORS, UNEMPLOYED, PARTIES 4+ £1 PER TICKET DISCOUNT. BOOK 2 SHOWS OR MORE £1 PER TICKET DISCOUNT. SPECIAL RATES FOR SCHOOLS AND PARTIES OF 10+.

BOX OFFICE: 01329 556156 www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com

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feature | marwell The first permanent building to be erected at Marwell was for six Rothschild giraffe, and to this day, more than forty years later, they remain one of the most popular residents of the world-famous conservation and wildlife project. Those giraffe were part of a consignment of 12 imported to this country from the wild and that building programme for the Marwell Wildlife Park had started during the summer of 1971; and what a journey it has been ever since!

Marwell Zoological Park was opened by John Knowles on 22 May 1972 and he is quoted as once saying “I can’t remember how much I spent on animals but I do remember selling my Rolls Royce to buy some zebras.” Admission then was charged at 40p for adults & 25p for children with a reduction of 5p per head for groups of 20 or more.

John Knowles left school at 16 to work as a farmhand and just seven days before his twenty-first birthday he bought his own farm. As a farmer he spotted a gap in the market for chickens bred for meat and John was soon building a business which would mean worldwide travel that also offered him opportunities to indulge his passion for wild animals and zoos. Finally the selling of an interest in his agricultural business enabled John to buy the 414 acre Marwell Hall estate which, after many trials and tribulations, opened as Marwell Zoological Park Established as a conservation and breeding centre, the idea of the park was to give visitors the opportunity to see rare and interesting animals in a unique setting. Whilst the species were divided across four zones from across the globe; Eurasia, America, Africa and Australia, Marwell was always intended to remain an English park with exotic inhabitants; rather than an attempt to recreate the appearance of other parts of the world.

Big cats were the very first animals purchased for the collection, Siberian Tigers – Boris and Lena, which had been hand reared at the Rare Feline Breeding Compound at Center Hill in Florida; they were soon joined by two young pairs of leopards, originally from East German zoos, a pair of young

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jaguars, a pair of cheetah (from Colchester Zoo) and a breeding pair of European Lynx, originally from Bucharest Zoo, Romania.

The first of the hoofed animals to arrive at the park were the horses, zebras and asses; the plan was to specialise initially on the breeding of rarer forms of hoofstock and larger cats, as well as maintaining a fairly comprehensive collection as a public exhibit and to this end John assembled Grevy’s, Chapman and Hartmann zebra; all of which remain with the collection today and Przewalski’s horses, mostly originating from Prague, were another key species within the initial collection. These were later joined by scimitar-horned oryx, common waterbuck, nyala and impala; the wildlife collection was growing.

Whilst specialising in the hoofed animals and cats John also assembled a collection of birds and cranes, such as rheas, ostrich, emus and Kori bustards to add variety as well as breeding and study opportunities.

A year later in 1973 Miko, their first Siberian tiger cub, was born to parents Kurtun and Nimana and he became known as Tigger or Tiggy to zoo staff and was soon adopted by the Royal Navy’s vessel, HMS Tiger. The wildlife park has never stood still and Marwell’s children’s zoo was opened towards the end of that year with the purpose of providing all visitors the opportunity to observe young and docile animals at close range, and in some cases to touch them as well. Miko quickly became the star attraction together with his new tiger companion, Lara, from Rotterdam Zoo. In addition to these Siberian tigers the zoo also held sheep, pygmy goats, donkeys, ponies and highland cattle as well as Vietnamese pot-bellied

Words by David Rose-Massom

feature | marwell

pigs, pheasants, peacocks, guinea pigs, a white wallaby and coatimundis, a member of the racoon family.

On to 1974 and following several false alarms and much nail biting by everyone at the Park a male giraffe calf was born on 5 May to Dribbles – a first for Marwell. They also welcomed their first Ostrich chick and finally the Marwell Zoological Park was accepted by the Charity Commission as a registered charity.

Operation Snow Leopard was launched when Vilkku, their first female snow leopard, was collected by John Knowles from Helsinki Zoo and she was joined by a male, Pavel, from Chicago Zoo, with the aim of helping to establish and breed snow leopards at Marwell and fund future conservation projects.

The first Brazilian tapir was then born at the zoo but it was one of their favourite animals that hit the news around the world and gave Marwell global publicity, a week of struggle for animal, staff and friends and that finally brought heartbreak.

Victor the giraffe was found by keeping staff with his legs spread-eagled in September of 1977. When contact was made with the local fire brigade for assistance in helping to raise him up, the call was intercepted by members of the press and over the following six days the story grew to the point where it became a front page feature around the world with film reports being shown in every country with a television service. Sadly, Victor never regained his footing and eventually lost his life. It was a sad day but it did help turn Marwell into a major tourist attraction.

The following year Marwell Zoo came under the ownership of a charitable trust – The Marwell Preservation Trust – and in transferring the ownership of the park to the trust, John

Knowles and his wife released the estate from the threat of having to pay death duties in the event of their untimely death.

In creating a conservation charity they had also opened up alternative routes of income outside of park admission and in that same year visitor numbers soared to 300,000.

In 1991 John Knowles was awarded an OBE for services to conservation and then in 1992 Marwell achieved an important milestone when it passed 5 Million visitors. Graham and Patricia Buckell with their two sons, David and Andrew, from Freshwater, Isle of Wight were the 5 millionth guests when they walked through the gates on the 19th August.

In the year of their 40th Anniversary in 2012, visitors to Marwell Wildlife were treated to a special event in February when they witnessed the birth of Ruby the giraffe, the Park it seemed had turned full circle and the youngster was named after the precious stone ‘Ruby’ to celebrate the park’s 40th and she was one of three giraffe births in the park that year.

It has been a story of success, of learning and of conservation for Marwell and it has given us here in the Solent Life region a wonderful place to visit and an amazing organisation that has helped sustain some very rare breeds. Still Marwell moves forward with innovation and energy as an attraction and continues to highlight the plight of animals in the wild through events such as the spectacular sculpture challenge Go! Rhinos.

This brilliant project sees large colourful rhino sculptures appearing across the streets and parks of Southampton during this summer. If you have not been to Marwell for a while, make sure you visit this year, it is still a place to make you smile and leave your family with some amazing memories.

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members | only

SHINY TOYS FOR GIRLS & BOYS We gave Victory Wheelers Chairman Keith Ellis a call and asked him to explain what the fascination was for the members and proud car owners? “How best would I sum up the Custom, Hot Rod and American car scene in the UK today?” he said answering the question with one of his own! “This is a scene that has been built on the passions and interests of enthusiasts over a number of decades and has become a whole life style for many of its followers. It is a passion full of imagination and creativity in the world of the ‘petrol-heads’; a coming together of like minded folk who put their heart and soul into their vehicles.”

Anyone who visits one of their shows will clearly see the passion and attention to detail that goes into the cars, along with the owner’s appearance, for it is not just about the cars.

“For our members it is about the whole lifestyle from that period, about Americana, the clothing, hair styles and even burlesque.

“Many of our members live the lifestyle away from the cars and the show grounds, one owner has a wonderful juke-box in his lounge along with furnishings and fittings from that era whilst to others it is a weekend of escapism and play!”

So, who are the Victory Wheelers? “We are one of the longest running clubs in the UK originally formed in 1977 and have established ourselves as one of the leading clubs that people and supporters have followed over the years, with some of the original founding members still being members today. We run two annual shows each year; a one day Sunday show on Hayling Island in May; known as ‘The Hayling

Reunion’. is the event is simply a chill-out day, for anyone who wishes to bring their vehicles to a free show for the day, and is held at Funland Amusement Park on the sea front” Having visited a couple of years ago Solent Life can attest to the fun and fascination of this event.

“As an organisation, we support a chosen charity every year and this year is Hannah’s Holiday Homes, who provide respite holidays for terminally ill children and their families.

“Our other major annual show ‘The South Coast Internationals’ (SCI) has become the biggest show of its type on the south coast. Traditionally held over a weekend in June, people travel from all over the country and Europe to attend the weekend’s activities.”

Keith went on to say that there was a great deal more to the Victory Wheelers than just shiny cars and that many good friendships have been built over the years in and out of the club. “Over many years there has been much camaraderie amongst the various Custom, American, Hot Rod and bike clubs; all of whom like to attend each other’s shows throughout the year. The Victory Wheeler’s ‘South Coast Internationals’ always attracts a huge following from other clubs and people,” Keith continued. “The SCI weekends include a number of events and activities that have become an established and expected part of the proceedings including a cruise out on the Saturday. Entertainment, in a large Marquee on the Friday and Saturday nights, is provided by some great live bands and later in the evening, a Burlesque Show. There is always a variety of good quality food outlets, often with American style diners,

Words by David Rose-Massom Images by Chris Jones, ID Creative and Sonia Hammond 50…

• MARCH 2013Creative Wisdom .co.uk Hayling Reunion Flyer

by Martin Griffin,

members | only

With a retro theme throughout this month’s Solent Life we could not go to press without a look at one of the best, and shiniest car clubs in the region…

VICTORY WHEELERS; Rod and Custom…

and a well stocked bar. However, it is the Sunday when it becomes show-time with a Show-and-Shine day. More owners and their vehicles arrive just for the Sunday Show and are all put on display for the public to come along and admire.”

Last year Victory Wheelers celebrated their 35th Anniversary show at Pylewell Park and attracted over 600 cars to the show with several thousand viewing public on the Sunday. Pointing out that you only need to enjoy the era and be a petrol-head, Keith was keen to talk of the social side of their club. “The club has a well respected following of fans, enthusiasts, traders and entertainers who come to our shows.

The number of people attending has greatly increased over the years, with interest growing from the general public for the Sunday Show-and-Shine. The Thorney Island Show held in 2005 attracted over 7000 people through the gates.

“On a personal level for me, it is all about the engines, its the mechanical stuff,” a clearly passionate Keith told us, “It is the engines of the big American muscle cars; there is nothing quite like the sound of a powerful V8 engine. But, it is also about being with like-minded individuals that enjoy getting into the whole era. Nostalgia is about taking the good stuff from an era and celebrating it and bringing it back into vogue.

“It is much more than just shiny toys, we have bikes, some of our members have Harleys and we also have members who go to Santa Pod for the drag racing. But, for most of us it is about the smell of the petrol and the sound of a big V8 rocking the place…”

www.victorywheelers.co.uk has details of where and when they meet and how you can become involved with a great and friendly club that just love to live a little bit of the past – Oh; and they have lots of shiny cars as well!

MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …51

The Tanneries Unit 5 East Street Titchfield PO14 4AR

Mercedes-Benz Specialists

Your new independent Service & Repair Specialists.

Silver Arrow MB has been set up by Phil Cook to offer an alternative to main dealer prices; this therefore helps YOU cut the cost of maintaining your Mercedes Benz. Up to 50% off main dealer prices without compromising quality, we only use genuine Mercedes specified parts, which ensures the manufacturers warranty is preserved at all times.

Silver Arrow MB assures you of a highly personalised and professional service. Phillip is a fully trained Mercedes Benz technician with some 26 years experience at Mercedes Benz dealership, achieving the highest status of MB qualified diagnostic technician.

Our fully equiped workshop contains the latest computer diagnostic technology which enables us to carry out your M.O.T, service and repairs to MB’s demanding standards.

Phone: 01329 845589 Email: info@silverarrowmb.com Web: www.silverarrowmb.com 52…

.co.uk • MARCH 2013

BARTLEY BMW SPECIALISTS ● BMW qualified technicians ● Fixed price servicing ● Free courtesy cars ● Laser 4 wheel alignment ● MOTs arranged ● Diagnostics ● Warranty work ● While you wait appointments available

For any aspect of your BMW

023 8066 1499

info@bartleyuk.com

www.bartleyuk.com

● Air con servicing and repairs ● Tuning and upgrades

Units 23–25 • New Forest Enterprise Centre • Rushington Business Park Chapel Lane • Totton • Southampton • SO40 9LA

MARCH 2013 •

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Berkeley has worked in partnership with English Heritage carefully restoring the magnificent 19th Century Granary & Bakery at Royal Clarence Marina. The final opportunity to be part of this unique Heritage Collection arrives in February as the last three 2 bedroom apartments of the restoration programme will be launched. Each one is rich in period character and possessing beautiful views over the marina. Don’t miss this very special opportunity to purchase – call us now to register your interest.

Only three 2 bedroom apartments available To register your interest please call 023 9252 9054 Sales Suite open daily 10am – 5pm Royal Clarence Marina, Portsmouth Harbour, Gosport PO12 1AX

www.royal-clarence-marina.co.uk Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

Our vision for your future

54…

.co.uk • MARCH 2013

Details correct at time of going to press.

Photography depicts Royal Clarence Marina.

Reflecting a glorious past and your next adventure Three unique restored apartments launch in February

Your ISA allowance – a wasted opportunity?

words by Justin Stevens

ISA’s were introduced by the government in 1999, in the

midst of the stock market dot-com bubble, replacing PEPs and cash-based TESSAs as the latest scheme to encourage people to save and invest for their future in a tax-efficient way. For many years the amount that could be invested in an ISA each tax year was limited to £7,000. But this has since increased; up to £11,280 can be invested in this tax year, and the allowance is due to rise each year in line with inflation. From 6 April it will increase to £11,520. The catch with the annual ISA allowance is that if you don’t use it, you lose it.

There are two types of ISA: Cash ISAs are savings accounts where the interest is paid tax-free and Stocks & Shares ISAs, as the name suggests, that allows investment into a wider range of stock market and other financial instruments. The attraction of a Stocks & Shares ISA is that both income and capital gains attract no further tax liability. However, there are restrictions on how much can be invested in each type. The full annual allowance can be invested in a Stocks & Shares ISA, but only half the allowance - £5,640 this year – can be saved in a Cash ISA, although the balance of the allowance can still be invested in a Stocks & Shares version. Of course, the favourable tax treatment given to ISAs is subject to changes in legislation and may not necessarily be maintained in future.

Undoubtedly, ISAs have been a success story. Over £390 billion has been invested across all ISA types since their launch.

Cash ISAs represented 49% of all ISA accounts opened in the first year. Yet, despite interest rates remaining at record lows, Cash ISAs accounted for a huge 80% of total applications in the last tax year, reflecting almost certainly the increased risk aversion prompted by the financial crisis in recent years. As a result, over 16.5 million people hold a total of £200 billion in Cash ISAs (source: HMRC, September 2012).

But there is a sting in the tail. The squeeze on savers from record-low interest rates is also being felt by those with Cash ISAs. Figures from the Bank of England in December showed that the average Cash ISA deposit rate is just 0.65%. The interest rate on the best-buy Cash ISA has fallen below 3% for the first time since 1999. Furthermore, only two Cash ISA accounts currently pay a rate that beats inflation (source: Moneyfacts, January 2013). That a huge chunk of £200 billion in savings is failing to beat inflation is a stark illustration of how this rare tax-saving opportunity is being wasted.

The reality is that the tax benefits provided by ISAs are best maximised by investing for the long term in assets capable of achieving capital growth and rising income. The likelihood is that

interest rates will remain very low for a number of years to come and, regrettably, savers cannot even be sure that their Cash ISA account is achieving a better rate than a standard deposit account. Against that backdrop, whilst cash is certainly the right home for money that might be needed in the short term, ISA allowances might be better utilised by investing in a diversified portfolio of assets that have the scope to deliver higher levels of income and long-term capital gains and, in doing so, make the most of the tax freedom on returns. Of course, investors need to bear in mind that the value of a Stocks & Shares ISA may fall as well as rise and it does not provide the security of capital associated with a Cash ISA. As well as considering the best use of this and future years’ ISA allowances, those who have already built up significant ISA funds might be able to improve the income and capital returns on offer. All too often, people do not review their ISA portfolio strategy frequently enough. How are the investment managers performing? Is the asset mix, geographic spread or fund choice still right for them? Can they improve the income-generating potential of their ISA portfolio? Are they happy with the service they’re receiving?

A thorough review of an ISA portfolio by an experienced wealth manager can ensure that it is appropriately structured and diversified to help achieve immediate or future financial goals. ISAs should be a cornerstone of financial planning, but it is also important to consider them in the context of an overall investment strategy and to ensure that an ISA portfolio can be adjusted easily to cater for changing needs.

As a final thought, parents, grandparents, and indeed anyone who might want to help a child build capital for his or her future, should not overlook Junior ISAs, which were introduced in November 2011 to give under-18s a similar tax-efficient savings opportunity. The limit for investment in this tax year is £3,600; but given the future financial challenges faced by the children of today, any help will provide them with a valued head start.. l To receive a complimentary guide produced by St. James’s Place Wealth Management, covering Wealth Management, Retirement Planning or Inheritance Tax Planning, contact Justin Stevens of JMS Financial Consultancy of St. James’s Place Wealth Management on 01329 236693, by email Justin.stevens@sjpp.co.uk or visit our website at www. jmsfinancialconsultancy.co.uk.

MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …55

money | matters

In the current environment of low interest rates, low economic growth and modest but persistent inflation, savers and investors need to make the most of every opportunity to maximise the returns on their money. Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) represent just such an opportunity; yet many people are wasting the valuable tax-saving advantages and investment potential provided by their annual ISA allowance.

Come for the

CAFES stay for the boutiquES

Relax and unwind in an amazing little café, then take some time to explore the winding side streets and discover Winchester’s independent boutiques.

To find out more about what to do in Winchester visit www.visitwinchester.co.uk

Winchester - Vibrant. Ancient. Cultured.

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.co.uk • MARCH 2013

An initiative from

Gunwharf

QUAYS DESIGNER OUTLET SHOPPING AND MORE

OVER 90 STORES WATERFRONT

RESTAURANTS & BARS

TEN PIN BOWLING HOTEL GALLERY

MULTIPLEX CINEMA MARINA WWW.GUNWHARF-QUAYS.COM

MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …57

solent | homes

It’s time to come clean

Whether you have wood or stone floors, it’s time to come clean this Summer!

How good is your wood?

Do you have a wooden floor that is looking a bit tired or worn?

Want it to look brand new again? If so The Ultimate Floor Sanding Company™ is probably the best in the south. We have been providing the highest quality finishing in homes like yours for over 10 years. Our unique floor sanding and finishing systems produce NO DUST and NO SMELL. So you have no mess or inconvenience when WE work on your floor! Because of our expertise and years of experience we are able to give ALL our customers the following fantastic 5-point ‘Ultimate’ guarantee: Quite Simply, we will: 1. Treat you courteously and professionally 2. Turn up when we say we will 3. Finish on time 4. Not create or leave any mess (dust free systems used) 5. Return free of charge to correct any imperfections …And leave you with a beautiful looking floor!

If you’re not entirely happy with ALL of these things, then our work is FREE, that’s right, you pay us absolutely nothing!

‘Why do we give this Guarantee?’

Well, we are a very professional business that always provides great service and value. Our uniformed staff always meet the standards in our guarantee.

A very large part of our business comes from happy customers recommending us to friends and family, a fact we are proud of.

A fact that clearly shows why we focus on providing a quality ‘Ultimate Satisfaction’ service every time… Guaranteed!

See our website: www.ultimate-floor-sanding.co.uk Telephone: 023 8030 8311 or 0800 695 6959

BEFORE

AFTER

Do you want that “Designer” Look for your wooden floors but without the dust, mess, smell and hassle of traditional floor sanding?

Then let us tell you about the Unique process of the Ultimate Floor Sanding Company™. It leaves no dust, or smell – just Superior Quality, beautiful looking wood floors that you will be proud of. Wooden floors, sanded and finished like those photos in the glossy magazines…

By using the most modern equipment, in the hands of specially trained staff, dedicated to the Ultimate dust free floor sanding process, we work quickly and efficiently causing minimal disruption to your home.

See our website: www.ultimate-floor-sanding.co.uk Telephone: 023 8030 8311 or 0800 695 695 9

How clean is your Tile?

NATURAL Stone, Porcelain and Ceramic tiles are beautiful to look at and worth every penny of your investment! But what happens when they get dirty? Do they lose a little of their ‘wow factor’. Are you tired of getting down on your hands and knees to scrub grout lines or have you just given up. Well, fear not for the Hampshire Tile Doctor is here to help.

They offer free advice and free quotations on how to clean and restore any sort of natural stone, be it Marble, Travertine, Limestone, Terracotta, Slate, Victorian tiles, etc Imagine your natural limestone entrance hall floor tiles, your terracotta or slate kitchen floor tiles, or your ceramic bathroom wall tiles, even your granite worktops and splash-backs being made to look as if they were freshly laid.

Also, have you ever noticed the difference in shade of colour of the grout at the very edge of the room, which should be almost as new and the grout in the middle of the floor now?

It can be surprising how even with regular mopping, the grout always looks dirty.

Why? Because the grout channel attracts soil which mopping often glides over.

So why not let The Tile Doctor clean the grout so it looks new again. The old days of mops and toothbrushes are gone forever!! And what if the grout is that badly stained? No problem! They can even re-colour the grout for you, from a range of subtle colours.

After the cleaning process they apply a professional application of an impregnating sealer, which does what it says. It impregnates the tile and/or grout and gives an invisible protective barrier that will leave your floors so much easier to clean. Sadly, some tile fitters never seal the tiles or grout they lay… which means you could damage your floor by spilling some everyday products you have in your kitchen or bathroom.

So why not let the Tile Doctor clean and protect for you. Call now on 0800 695 6959 or visit www.hampshiretiledoctor.co.uk, for a free ‘demo’!

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D

&

D’s

Domestic Clearance

Male & Female Partnership Offering Complete House Clearance Friendly & Efficient Service Competitive & Affordable Prices For All Budgets Fully Insured & Registered With Waste Carriers Licence Donate Any Items To A Charity Of Your Choice!

Free Quotes

OAP Discount

Call Today, Don’t Delay Call Dee: 07979 949726

Email: deonne.english_74@yahoo.co.uk

solent | homes

20% OFF

ALL PRODUCTS IN MARCH 2013

Use our new

ONLINE DESIGN TOOL

to DESIGN & BUY your WARDROBES www.swansystems.co.uk

oiler?

Need a new b options t Easier paymen edit card available by cr cost or spread the alments st in with monthly WE WILL MATCH ANY QUOTE A beautiful range of designs and styles

For a FREE quote

call us now on 0800 862 0100 info@alfordgph. co.uk www.alfordgph.co.uk

Swan Sliding Wardrobe Doors and matching bedroom furniture Versatile and functional storage options

Smooth sliding doors with soft close feature

Choose the right look for your bedroom with Swan Systems Furniture. Call one of our advisors or design and buy online from the comfort of your home at: www.swansystems.co.uk Call:

01329 843 636 Manufactured with quality to a unique design

or email: info@swansystems.co.uk

Swan Systems Furniture on selected Worcester Bosch Boilers

UNIQUE SLIDING WARDROBES & BEDROOM FURNITURE

Titchfield Showroom: Unit 6 / 6a The Tanneries, East Street, Titchfield, Fareham PO14 4AR • Tel: 01329 843 636 West End Showroom: 15-19 Swaythling Road, West End, Southampton SO30 3AG • Tel: 02380 465 485

NEW COLOURS FOR 2013 ROMANA CHERRY & SILVER

until end of 2012 (only available through Worcester Bosch accredited installers)

The YourPlumber service is provided by independent operators licensed under franchise.

A plumber you can trust.

At a price you can afford.

When you call YourPlumber you won’t just get a qualified expert who’s experienced in plumbing.

You’ll get a service professional who’s local and arrives on time.

We’ll give you a fixed price before we start without any hidden extras, we’ll explain exactly what we’ll be doing every step of the way and leave your home clean and tidy.

01489 401050 www.yourplumber-uk.com

SAVE

10%

WHEN YOU QUOTE THIS ADVERT!

Book a visit today!

MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …59

2009

solent | homes

20th year

anniversary

EST. 1989

Domestic & Commercial

WE SUPPLY & FIT

• Carpet • Vinyl • Wood Laminate • Solid Wood • Karndean Design Flooring • Refits, Repairs & Adaptations Undertaken • Made to Measure Blinds Plus a Selection of Rugs Available • Alternative Flooring

• Interest free credit • Home selection service • Free estimates • Insurance work • All work undertaken by qualified fitters • 80% of our customers are recommended or returned custom Visit Our Showroom At: 185-187 Anns Hill Road, Gosport PO12 3RF

Opening times: Mon - Tues 8am-5pm Weds 8am-7pm LATE OPENING Thurs - Fri 8am-5pm Tel: 023 9252 5463 Mob: 07850 559050 Fax: 023 9252 4039 Email: info@carpetfayre.co.uk

www.carpetfayre.co.uk

Cladding — Weatherboarding — Decking EDPM Flat Rubber Roofing HOME TRANSFORMATION

Replace damaged upvc, timber and tiles and transform

Tel. 01329 668700 www.exteriordesigners.co.uk 60…

.co.uk • MARCH 2013

Curtain Cleaning Services (Est. 1989) solent | homes

Established 1980

Northern Galleries 3 & 4, Fort Fareham Business Park, Newgate Lane, Fareham.

Open Mon - Fri : 9.30am - 5pm Sat : 10am - 4pm .R.P 0 off ofckRs) u pto 15 Fax/Ans 01329 828921 (Limited sto Website www.ironcraftfirecentre.co.uk

• Over 30 wood, multifuel, gas and electric stoves on display • Liner, flues, spares and accessories • Full fitting service

Telephone: 01329 232821

The Complete Building Solution No Job Too Big or Small

Quality Work and Service from an Established Local Building Company.

Insurance Backed Guarantees & Extensive Warranties From The Federation Of Master Builders.

Solent Flooring Ltd

• Specialised

cleaning of curtains, blinds and loose covers and re-hanging of drapes and fitting of loose covers • Repairs and alterations. Special rate for OAPs and disabled • Fitting and repair service of tracks and poles • Handmade curtains, blinds and loose covers • A wide range of fabrics to choose from • Free design service • Guaranteed satisfaction

• Collection

For more information or a quote please call: 02392 001274 or 07886 491727 Genevieve Curtains & Soft Furnishings www.genevieveinteriors.co.uk

Established 25 Years • Fully Insured

CARPETS • VINYLS • LAMINATES • REAL WOOD • CERAMIC TILES ALL SUPPLIED AND PROFESSIONALLY FITTED

SPECIAL OFFER

View feedback from our customers at checkatrade.com

FREE Home Selection & Estimate Service

For a friendly and genuine service with no obligation call: Freephone: 0800 9177 553 Jason: 07770 411734 John: 07812 132087 Fax: 01329 238861

Email: jason@solentflooring.co.uk website:www.solentflooring.co.uk

All prices include fitting, good underlay, disposal of old floor covering, grippers and door bar.

Solent Twist

5 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty 5 Year Stain Warranty 12 Colours to choose from

Solent Berber

100% Man Made Natural Looking Carpet

Room Price Examples Including VAT

3m x 4m £156 • 4m x 4m £208 5m x 4m £260 • 6m x 4m £312

Unit 19, Regent Trade Park, Barwell Lane, Gosport PO13 0EQ APPROVED SUPPLIER AND INSTALLER OF KARNDEAN INTERNATIONAL DESIGN FLOORCOVERINGS

MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …61

BOB WEAVER ROOFING LTD solent | homes

39 years experience in flat & pitch roofing We offer Free survey’s and Quotations

Finesse Carpentry ‘Over 20 Years Experience’ Handyman & Locksmith services also offered For a no obligation quote please call:

S? M E BL

O

PR G N I F

Paul Tel: 023 9281 2771 or 07790 322 178 Email: carpenter@dr.com All jobs considered

ROO

● Flat & Pitched Roofing ● Fascia, Gutter and Soffit work ● EPDM Flat Roof local contact ● All work covered with 15 & 20 year Guarantee’s

023 9265 3352 • 07860 356466 www.bobweaverroofing.co.uk

bob.weaver1@ntlworld.com

ROOFING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE New Roofs & Repairs to: • Flat Roofs • Tiled Roofs • Slate Roofs • Re-Pointing of Brickwork • Chimneys • Valleys & Ridges • UPVC Fascias & Guttering All Aspects of Property Maintenance Over 20yrs Experience. Fully Insured. Free Estimates.

FLAT ROOFING SPECIALIST NEW SERVICES: l WINDOWS, CONSERVATORIES, UPVC FASCIAS & SOFFITS CLEANED l GUTTERS CLEARED

01489 583486 or 07813 087210 The Flooring Store Direct to Your Door

Established 1996

NO crowds, NO hassle, NO high pressure sales Just…

Samples of Carpets, Hardwood Flooring, Laminates, Rugs, Designer Vinyls, Quickstep & Karndean brought straight to your home.

Domestic, Commercial, Insurance Work Undertaken

Call now for a without obligation FREE survey & quotation

PRIC MATCE GUARANT H EE

023 8069 6266

7 Reynolds Road, Fair Oak, Soton, SO50 7NA

www.floorcoveringssouthern.co.uk 62…

.co.uk • MARCH 2013

Fit a new Kitchen/Bedroom or Transform the one you have Just change the cabinet doors/worktops

FREE survey & quotation CALL 01329 830111 NOW! Heming & Co The Square, Wickham PO17 5JT

www.kabt.co.uk Transform your life with a Kinetico water softener

the best kept secret in every home!

hard water

soft water

Relax in your pristine and limescale-free home

hard water

soft water

Snuggle into softer, cleaner, brighter towels

Arrange your free home survey - 0800 0151 380

www.kinetico.co.uk/solent

Kitchen and Bedroom Transformations specialise in refurbishing your kitchen or bedroom.

They can Transform existing units by fitting new doors, drawer fronts, worktops and trims or supply and fit a complete new fitted Kitchen or Bedroom.

Kitchen and Bedroom Transformations offer a wide range of door designs and finishes with high quality new carcasses colour-matched to the doors, a range of worktops from laminates to granite, solid wood and composite, with new sinks, taps and appliances from a wide range of manufacturers.

As part of a Transformation, they can make changes to the layout and, perhaps, add extra units or new storage baskets to make your existing kitchen more usable. Many existing kitchens are already designed in the most practical way and the advantages of a Transformation are: reduced cost, less time taken and much less mess and disruption to the household. A typical Transformation can be completed within two to three days compared to a week or so for a complete new kitchen.

For new installations, they provide a computer aided design service that will help you to visualise the finished product and, whatever you choose, you will receive friendly, personal attention and good advice at every stage.

Kitchen and Bedroom Transformations do not believe in high-pressure sales techniques – they prefer customers to take their time to choose what they want Some quotes from satisfied customers: “The whole experience we have gone through has been stress free, professional and so thorough, that we could not have asked for more” Mr and Mrs S. West End “We would be happy to recommend your firm to others, or tell prospective customers how pleased we were with your service and the result” Mr and Mrs E. Fareham “The service and care by both yourselves and the fitter, Ian & his partner was exceptional” Mrs W. Purbrook “This letter is to confirm our utmost satisfaction with the renovations to our kitchen you have recently carried out. The quality of the replacements are excellent” Mr P. Fareham The husband and wife team of Gill and Steve Hudson have run Kitchen & Bedroom Transformations from their showroom in Wickham since January 2005. Steve will be happy to come out and take measurements to provide a detailed quotation, with no obligation, you are welcome to visit their showroom above Heming & Co in The Square at Wickham, PO17 5JT, visit their web site www.kabt.co.uk or phone 01329 830111.

MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …63

solent | homes

Kitchen & Bedroom Transformations

On their website the Three Belles all stay in persona, but when we met them shortly before they were due to burst into song at yet another performance, we gained an insight into the real girls. To be honest though, there is not a great deal of difference!

Betty, is the blonde talkative one with the huge smile and a different love each day and her real name is Anneka, she speaks as much with her hands as she does with her voice and her chatter is infectious.

Next there is the mischievous red-head Gail, or Sally in real life, she seems to have a permanent glint in her eye and a wicked streak that keeps everyone’s spirits high, the perfect red-head.

Izzie, is the accident waiting to happen, if anything breaks or falls down, Izzie, or stage-name Dorothy, will not be far away. The brunette of the group, she has the most amazing eyes that will captivate an audience and bring smiles to her two co-members of the Belles when she throws them a cheeky wink.

There is a fourth member, now nicknamed d’Artagnan just like the fourth member of the Three Musketeers, who is the road manager responsible for getting the girls to their gigs and looking after the equipment. She is also the quietest one, beware though as she is one sharp cookie while being as much part of the troupe as the other three.

All four of the girls arrived in costume, they almost live the life of the era they perform in, and immediately had everyone around them at ease and falling willing victims to their smiles and charm.

Anneka explained so quickly about how they all met that my pen began to set fire to my notepad! “We were all at Portsmouth University in our final year, and we created The Three Belles as part of our course in Creative and Performing Arts. We had to create a theatrical and business company and it had to prove viable as well as be arts based.

“We chose to hold a Forties Night at Portsmouth Guildhall and began singing in pubs as The Three Belles to raise funds for that Forties Night, which became a sell-out,” added Anneka, “From that we began to get bookings as we neared graduation in 2011 and decided right away to go full time.” Anneka stopped just long enough to take a breath!

“It was a leap of faith because you never know if the work is going to keep coming in; we also produced a complete show called the In the Mood Show and that has also sold out everywhere we have performed it and later this year we will be taking it on tour.” It was seeing the Glenn Miller Orchestra that gave her that first love of the music and the era. “I was already

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into that Big Band sound when we all met and Sally was into the fashion and so we decided to form an Andrews Sisters style trio and so we needed a brunette who could harmonise.”

Izzie, who went to the same school and grew up in the same village as Sally, was originally also a red-head but became the brunette to join the other two and so it begged the question of how friendly they were off-stage; Sally gave Anneka a much needed rest; “We are very good at being cheerful and giggly and we love each other’s company, we all, including d’Artagnan, share a house as well. Izzie is almost like our girlie-dog, she always reminds us of King Charles spaniel!” Sally added as laughter erupted around the table and Izzie gave a hound-dog expression that seemed to confirm the description.

Red, is the ‘bad’ girl of the group and as she threw a cheeky smile my way she continued the story. “The worst thing about what we do is never having a weekend off to spend with friends or family, but we also realise how very lucky we all are to have this as our job,” she continued, “Our friends all respect us as we have gone out and done our own thing and it was great when we returned to Portsmouth for a recent gig and all our friends turned up to cheer us on.”

Between the four girls there is constant teasing and banter and now based in Woking the only time they get apart is when they take a short break to spend with family, but even on time off they stick together as Izzie explained. “We do socialise on days out and in our spare time, we quite often have a film night together, we just enjoy each other’s company as well as the fun of performing together.

“As for the future, we have a three year plan; but that is secret,” she added, but what about after? “Oh, then we have a ten year plan; and that is even more of a secret!” There was no laughter; their careers and each other’s friendship is the only serious thing about these girls.

One of the girls summed it all up for the trio, “When we sang on stage that first night to raise funds we knew it was what we wanted to do; and so we just carry on doing it!” It didn’t matter which of the girls said it; it was the same reason for being together for all of them.

Words by David Rose-Massom

The blonde belle with a BIG smile! She loves to sing and dance and falls in love with a new man each day! Hairstylist to the other belles, she is always trying out new do’s in her boutique.

The firey red head of the belles.

Despite her cheeky manner and feisty spirit, Gail is often unlucky in love! That doesn’t dampen her spirits though!

She’s always the belle who gets the drinks in and has the greatest hits for the belles toetapping travels!

The brunette with the big heart!

This hopelessly romantic belle is always singing about love... much to the others dismay! But still she makes sure the belles are in check, pressed and dressed for each performance.

MARCH 2013 •

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AVON PARK RESIDENTIAL HOME

l Private, secluded, landscape grounds, and a purpose-built comfortable home. l All rooms self-contained, hotel standard with 24hr call butons. l Plenty of activities and you can bring your own possessions. l We are proud of our homely and informal atmosphere. Do come to visit us and meet with other similarly minded social and physically active people and see for yourself.

Contact us to discuss your future care Avon Park Residential Home 66 Southampton Road • Park Gate Hampshire • SO31 6AF

Telephone: 01489 574616 Email: alexandernethersole@btinternet.com

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www.avonparkcarehome.co.uk

MARCH 2013 •

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QR

Does Video

How media technology has changed the way we work, play and communicate - and now, Solent Life will be letting you get in on the act!

For many of us, it’s hard to remember life before the internet - and for most of us, life before TV now seems inconceivable. We’re used to sourcing our information and entertainment from a whole variety of different media; magazines, radio, TV, websites and more recently social media channels like YouTube, Facebook and Twitter.

Gone are the days of sitting down in front of the television at a certain time to watch a particular programme you don’t want to miss or tuning into a radio station for a certain show you wanted to listen to. Podcast services like iTunes allow you to listen to a radio show whenever you have the time, and with the launch of Freeview recorders, catch-up TV and services like iPlayer, television is now all about freedom and choice - watching what you want, when you want and for how long you want.

Unbelievably, YouTube launched just 8 years ago (doesn’t it seem longer ago than that!) and it has revolutionised the way we watch video. In 2011, the service reported having more than 1 trillion views - or around 140 views for every person on Earth. Now, more than 4 billion hours of video are watched on the site each month.

And if that wasn’t enough, in 2013, it’s not just about different media, it’s about different ways of accessing it too. You can still pick up a magazine like this one, but you can also log onto a desktop PC, open a laptop – and most recently pick up your mobile phone or tablet to find out what you want to know.

It would be a real understatement to say that Smartphones are big business and that mobile web browsing and app use has been growing at breakneck speed over the past couple of years.

Various surveys robustly back this up. One claims that we now spend more time watching our mobiles than watching TV each day! Another says we’re actually addicted to our phones and that one in four of us check them every thirty minutes! Perhaps it’s unsurprising then that 25% of global YouTube views come from mobile devices.

So with video and mobile skyrocketing in popularity, it stands to reason that Solent Life should be launching an exciting new video mobile dimension to our magazine this month.

Designed to offer you something a little more - and so very 2013 we’re launching videos and podcasts as a multimedia addition to our printed and online magazine.

For selected adverts and features, readers will be able to view videos and interviews directly from our magazine, without even having to search for the web address online! All you need is a mobile phone.

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When you spot a printed video QR code, simply scan it with your Smartphone scanner and you’ll be taken directly to an information page where you can view the relevant video.

The videos won’t just be filmed clips, they’ll also be presentations, slideshows with soundtracks and features, all offering you more information, offers and entertainment on tap.

The video-on-demand service is being provided in partnership with Hampshire production company Pure Brand Media.

Managing Director Jane Danser explains more: “We’re very excited to be offering Pure ViewPOD, which stands for View Promotions On Demand, as it gives Solent Life readers an exciting new way of instantly finding out more about an article, event or product that interests them. They can watch videos there and then on their phone or tablet, or if they don’t have a Smartphone, they can simply log on and watch them online instead.”

“Pure ViewPOD also benefits contributors and advertisers in the magazine too, as the service can track the number of times each video has been viewed and add in promotional codes and coupons too.”

To try the new service for yourself, simply scan the QR code below with your Smartphone and watch example video clips and to find out more. If you don’t have a QR reader or scanner on your phone or tablet, there are several that are available free from your app store.

Or if you’re a business, event or venue and would like a video or podcast for yourself, simply get in touch!

For more information contact: Jane Danser T: 023 8098 7918 E: jane.danser@purebrandmedia.com www.purebrandmedia.com or alternatively, drop a line to info@solentlife.co.uk

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solent | education

Where a University Degree in Business is not beyond your reach

Our part-time Business and Management Degree is designed for busy working people and is available one evening a week from several colleges across Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and from the University of Portsmouth.

It is open to those who may not have formal qualifications but whose work experience will have prepared them to succeed.

To find out more about the flexible part-time courses we offer, come along to our next open evening, details of which can be found at www.port.ac.uk/ For further information pbsevents. visit:

www.port.ac.uk

Far more at Fareham College Did you know Fareham College facilities are open to the public?

T: +44 (0)23 9284 8200 E: bus.admissions@port.ac.uk W: www.port.ac.uk/ busandman

Vocational Education Really Works Fareham College is renowned for its vocational, occupational and applied courses and has been running a wide variety of highly successful full and part-time programmes for more than 25 years. The number of students studying these types of courses grows every year and currently makes up approximately 80% of the College’s student population, which is around 3,500.

The College prides itself on offering opportunities for students to gain the skills they need to get a job and sustain a successful career. Students benefit from using the latest high-tech equipment within state-of-the-art facilities.

Commercial outlets such as a fine-dining restaurant, and hairdressing, beauty and holistic therapy salons are all situated on the College campus and run by students. The advantage of a vocational course is that students focus on one subject in depth which includes a high level of skills development. Many BTEC Diploma subjects such as Art and Design, Graphics, Gaming and Computing, Engineering, Performing Arts, Media, Fashion, Uniformed Services and Sport, are all vocational courses that offer progression routes into university.

Hair & Beauty Salons Chequers Restaurant Performing Arts Theatre 01329 815 200 www.fareham.ac.uk

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What’s more, new research shows that many of the UK’s wealthiest people found their fortune through vocational training. The City & Guilds Vocational Rich List reports that people such as James Dyson, worth £1.45bn, Jamie Oliver, worth £106m and Stella McCartney, worth £15m all made their fortunes through vocational learning or an apprenticeship.

Fareham College – Your route to a brighter future!

To find out more about the full and part-time courses on offer, visit www.fareham.ac.uk, or call (01329) 815200.

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SolentLife2012March2013_Layout 1 28/02/2013 13:48 Page 1

Hampshire Collegiate Prep School The best in everyone

TM

Preparation for life...

Life at Hampshire Collegiate Prep School is based on sharing, performing, achieving, creating and exploring, all adding up to learning in an atmosphere which the children love being part of and in which they feel safe and secure.

Please contact Mrs Julia Piper on: 01794 515737 to arrange a visit.

Nursery and Early Years Foundation Stage Open Morning Friday 26th April. Drop in between 9.00am - 11.30am.

Meet our staff and see our wonderful facilities.

Hampshire Collegiate Prep School Embley Park, Romsey, Hampshire SO51 6ZA Prep School: 01794 515737 e:info@hampshirecs.org.uk www.hampshirecs.org.uk MARCH 2013 •

.co.uk …71

Virtually Hidden

From View

Sitting high up in a box at Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre, is Stephen Wood. With one hundred per cent concentration, his eyes dart back and forth between the computer screen before him and an annotated music score accompanying the opera which is taking place on stage. His right hand hovers almost nervously over the computer mouse and, as his brain matches the music in the score to that in the orchestra pit, his fingers click down.

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Virtually hidden from view, the packed audience has no idea that Stephen, a member of Welsh National Opera’s music staff, is even there. But they would soon know if he wasn’t – because Stephen is controlling the surtitles.

Opera-goers have a love/hate relationship with surtitles.

Looking up at the words every few lines can be distracting – but not looking at them means you can quickly lose the plot. With opera sung in a range of languages including German, Italian, French and Russian, there are few of us multi-lingual enough to follow the story without surtitles.

And even opera sung in English can benefit from a bit of help in distinguishing the diction.

Stephen, who has worked for WNO for five years, says there is an art to surtitling. “You have to concentrate a lot. You can’t miss even one surtitle as everyone would notice.

“In some theatres we can see the stage and we can see the conductor and that makes it a lot easier and more enjoyable as you feel more part of it. You can make your cues more accurate because you can see the conductor and when he is putting the upbeat and the downbeat. You can also look at the singers’ mouths and see when they are breathing.”

And the choice of words is also important.

“We hire someone to do a translation and they will artfully do a kind of ‘surtitle translation’ as you wouldn’t want to translate everything. If you did that there would just be a barrage of text and no-one would be able to look at the stage as they would be looking at the screen the whole time.

“The next stage is that the director will see the translation

because they might want to slightly change the words to fit in with their production,” Stephen explains. “And maybe the conductor may have a look as well and these things get thrown into the mix.

“In the days before surtitles I don’t know how most people could follow the opera. Even if you had a synopsis and the acting was really clear it must still have been difficult to know what was happening. It would be a bit like watching a foreign film without subtitles. Having surtitles is the first step to the elitism of opera being demolished. It is the fact that people can understand what is going on, pure and simple.

Controlling the surtitles is only one facet of Stephen’s job on the music staff with WNO. As a répetiteur, he can take on all kinds of roles including playing piano, singing, conducting and leading music workshops.

A musician since the age of five, he studied music at Oxford University, then took Postgraduate Répetiteur Studies at the Royal Academy of Music in London. Trained as a chorister, Stephen is a singer as well as being able to play a number of musical instruments including piano and organ.

And as a music lover he is keen for other people to share

his enthusiasm for opera.

“Anyone can enjoy opera – why not?” he says. “It is not so different from watching a good film. Opera has great stories, beautiful music and text with it so what is there not to enjoy?

“People who like pop music think opera is really foreign to them but actually all of these operas have their short pop songs.

Everyone knows some popular bits from operas because you hear them on Classic FM or in adverts or in films.

“In this season a good introduction would be Madam Butterfly. You can’t go wrong with Puccini, he is the ultimate for a newcomer. Lots of tunes, lots of beauty, lots of music people recognise. That is why he influenced people like Andrew Lloyd Webber and George Gershwin. Madam Butterfly has all the hits and it also has the emotion – it is like going to see a soppy film at the cinema. People like to have a good old cry.

Welsh National Opera will be performing Lulu, Madam Butterfly and The Cunning Little Vixen from 19th March at the Mayflower Theatre, Southampton.

Box Office 02380 711811.

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review | restaurant

A GUIDING LIGHT

New owners, a major revamp, a new name, definitely a new direction with menu, quality and taste; so when the new team at The Navigator in Swanwick invited us to lunch we headed there with high expectation… we were not disappointed.

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the next on the list; and then the next!

My dining partner’s salt beef croquette, served on a bed of whipped peas and horseradish with Alresford watercress and port syrup was an amazing dish (be prepared for many superlatives, it was one of those meals), a great blend of texture and big flavours. I am a huge fan of salt beef but rarely do we see it on menus outside of London.

My dish was soft, dressed white crab with a brown meat mousse topped with a poached duck egg yolk and served with bisque foam.

The fork broke the yellow yolk and the egg drizzled its way down over the cake of crab, and the taste was simply gorgeous, soft textures, several different soft flavours and a total triumph.

Both starters had a hint of the exotic and it felt as if I could have been dining in a restaurant that was just a few yards away from the blue Caribbean, rather than the chilly River Hamble.

Slow cooked pork belly, sounded traditional enough, but then came the extras, with scallops, leek and chorizo risotto topped with garlic and thyme crumbs. Surely too many ingredients, too many complex flavours, surely chef had thrown a culinary spanner in the works of good food - but hold on a moment – a perfectly moist risotto, soft and easy scallops, the harsh hint of chorizo and then the crispy meaty pork! It worked amazingly well.

Char-grilled leg of lamb steak served on a roast onion and thyme Cassoulet, again sounded like a classic dish, no spanners here then?

But chef decided that some broccoli and anchovies needed to be thrown into the equation! The sum result was a perfect dish with the lamb being cooked slightly pink, just how I like it, and the anchovy

review | restaurant

The décor is of washed wood and pale colours, almost retro beach hut in style, but with a touch of elegance; it is a warm, comfortable, clean and welcoming environment that is further enhanced by the staff members who were friendly and smiling with delight for each new customer. Dining out should be about being entertained as well as being well fed and we were certainly being well looked after.

Glassware and cutlery on the dark wooden tables, sparkled and bright early spring sunshine came in beams through the windows; outside terraced areas sat empty, apart from the smart furniture, awaiting warmer summer days when diners would be enjoying lunches in very comfortable al-fresco style.

Our waitress was polite, smiling and very efficient. She knew the menu well and it was obvious that General Manager Jamie Atkinson had coached his staff well. Jamie even holds tasting sessions for the staff so that they are totally familiar with the menu as then, the servers not only knew the ingredients but also the flavours and textures. This is something that sadly lacks in many eateries but it is always helpful when the servers know from experience what they are offering their dining guests.

Tricky choices followed, it was one of those menus that as you browsed each dish you felt it was the one calling you, until you saw

adding a lovely salty flavour to it reminding me of marsh-grazed lamb which always ends up a delicious and different treat for this lovely meat. The softness in both flavour and texture of the butter beans in the Cassoulet added yet another dimension.

The dishes may all have been complex in construction, but they were beautifully presented, lovingly and skilfully put together and were obviously the product of a clever chef who knows exactly what he is doing; and trust me, he is doing everything just right.

It had been a filling lunch but dessert was too enticing to miss out on, so a shared Chocolate and Amoretto torte, with peanut butter mousse and peanut brittle was called for. Suffice to say another great confection of taste and texture and a stunning end to an amazing lunch.

The Navigator does offer a sandwich list, or a great burger; by the way, try the truffle parmesan fries; and if the main menu is a little heavy for lunch then try the fixed price menus at 2-course for £12.50 or 3-course for £16.50; great value.

The new owner and team at The Navigator really know what they are doing, they are not competing with nearby hostelries but they are putting their own unique stamp on the choices available around Burseldon and the Hamble and they are most definitely a welcome addition to the area.

THE NAVIGATOR, 286 Bridge Road, Lower Swanwick, SO31 7EB 01489 572 123 www.thenavigatorswanwick.co.uk Our lunch from the main menu without drinks came to around £30 a head and was superb value for money with the choice and quality of both food and service.

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BOTLEY BATHROOM CENTRE with 36 years experience, let us build your dream

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In Bathrooms SALE NOW ON!

FOR A PROFESSIONAL SERVICE TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS F Open Monday - Saturday Above Colourama Designs 114 Bridge Rd, Sarisbury Green SO31 7EP

Tel: 01489 481025 www.in2bathrooms.co.uk

be part of our vibrant local team Graphic Designer Conversant with the current Adobe Suite and with the life cycle of a monthly lifestyle magazine. Self motivated, with attention to detail, creative and the ability to work to a demanding deadline are essential qualities.

Working under the direction of our senior designer, you will be designing advertising and feature editorial for our three aspirational lifestyle magazines. Full time, 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday. Working from our offices in Park Gate in a small but dedicated team.

Salary dependant on experience.

Apply with CV and portfolio to David Ives-Farren at design@solentlife.co.uk

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www.solentbrick.com LOOK!

2013

BUILDERS TYPE WHEELBARROW ONLY £26.99 EXCL VAT £32.39 INC VAT

Open: 08.00 hrs ‘til 17.00 hrs MONDAY TO FRIDAY 08.00 hrs ‘til 12.00 hrs SATURDAYS

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WALLING PRODUCTS Marshalite Walling from only - mtr sq Tegula Walling per sq mtr Manor Walling Blocks - each Manor ½ size Block inc Quion Ends - each Manor Coping Single Stone on Edge Coping - each Double Stone on Edge Coping - each Marshalls Fellstone Walling - Calder Brown/Yorkstone Block - each Coping - each Cap - each Thake ham Rockfaced Walling - Red/Grey Small Block - each Large Block - each Pillar Cube - each Thakeham Caps & Copings - Red/Grey/Cream 24” x 6” 18” x 12” 10” Cap 15” Cap 20” Cap Thakeham Screen Walling - Grey/Cream - each Marshalls Croft Walling - Wethered - each Marshalls Heritage Coping - Calder Brown/Yorkstone - each Marshalls Heritage Radius Coping - each Marshalls Saxon Coping - Buff - each Visit our depot or go to our Web Site to see the full range of Walling, Copings & Caps

ex vat inc vat £37.76 £45.31 £43.96 £52.75 £4.60 £5.52 £3.20 £3.84 £3.99 £4.79 £5.33 £6.40 £8.36 £10.03

Marshalls Planters - Buff/Brown - each Mixed Common Bricks - per 100 Stepping Stones in various formats - from Cement - 25kg - each White Lime - 25kg - each 5ltr Mortar Plas - each 11” Bricklayers Trowel - each 6” Pointing Trowel - each 48” StabilaLevel - each 72” Stabila Level - each 9” Diamond TX Cutting Disc - each

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SAND BALLAST AND CEMENT ETC DELIVERED PROMPTLY Call in and inspect our massive stocks No waiting - Immediate delivery

PATH EDGINGS ex vat 915mm Concrete Grey Path Edge Round Top/Flat Top £2.99 600mm Contour Path Edge - Grey/Red/Buff £2.20 600mm Round Top Path Edge - Grey/Red/Buff £2.20

inc vat £3.59 £2.64 £2.64

Call in & Check Out Our full range of Paving & Landscape Products

600 x 600 Peak Smooth- 3 colours 600 x 600 Textured- Buff//Grey 450 x 450 Textured - Buff/Grey 450 x 450 Sussex 6 colours from Storrington Patio Pack 6.08 sq mtrs BS Flag 600 x 600 (Council Type) BS Flag 900 x 600 (Council Type)

ex vat inc vat £3.75 £4.50 £6.75 £8.10 £3.49 £4.19 £2.32 £2.78 £99.00 £118.80 £6.68 £8.02 £7.51 £9.01

CASTACRETE STONECRAFT PAVING 675 x 450 Rutland - Autumn/Mellow Stone 600 x 600 Rutland - Autumn/Mellow Stone 600 x 450 Rutland - Autumn/Mellow Stone 600 x 300 Rutland - Autumn/Mellow Stone 450 x 450 Rutland - Autumn/Mellow Stone 450 x 300 Rutland - Autumn/Mellow Stone 300 x 300 Rutland - Autumn/Mellow Stone Stepping Stone Rutland Autumn/Mellow Stone Complete 2 Ring Rutland Circle Kit Complete 3 Ring Rutland Circle Kit Rutland Project Pack 7.2m2-Autumn/Mstone .

600 x 600 Courtyard - Old Grey 600 x 450 Courtyard - Old Grey 600 x 300 Courtyard - Old Grey 450 x 450 Courtyard - Old Grey 450 x 300 Courtyard - Old Grey 300 x 300 Courtyard - Old Grey Project Pack - 7.2 sq mtrs

ex vat £5.84 £4.90 £4.30 £3.68 £3.15 £2.49 £2.10

inc vat £7.01 £5.88 £5.16 £4.42 £3.78 £2.99 £2.52

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.co.uk • MARCH 2013

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BRICKS - BRICKS - BRICKS Mataro Red per 1000 per 1000 Mixed Buff Rustic per 1000 Mixed Buff Dragfaced per 1000 Red Rustic Multi per 1000 Belgrave Multi per 1000 Redburn Multi per 1000 Oakthorpe Multi per 1000 Wild Poppy per 1000 Surrey Red Multi per 1000 Rudgwick 2” Multi/Pavior per 1000 Harvest Buff Multi per 1000 Warnham Red per 1000 Tabasco Red Multi Wessex Red Multi/Handmade per 1000 per 1000 Peak Red Rustic per 1000 Sahara Buff per 1000 Havant Blend per 1000 London Multi Stock per 1000 Hartlebury Rustic per 1000 Olde Wealden Multi per 1000 Golden Multi Ruf per 1000 Sherwood Buff per 1000 Dorking Multi per 1000 Village Golden Thatch per 1000 Reclaimed Bricks from Brick Slip Tiles now in stock - 4 Styles.

ex vat £199.00 £199.00 £199.00 £199.00 £399.00 £399.00 £339.00 £199.00 £229.00 £499.00 £375.00 £349.00 £375.00 £420.00 £399.00 £499.00 £469.00 £599.00 £199.00 £425.00 £499.00 £335.00 £299.00 £445.00 £750.00

inc vat £238.80 £238.80 £238.80 £238.80 £478.80 £478.80 £406.80 £238.80 £274.80 £598.80 £450.00 £418.80 £450.00 £504.00 £478.80 £598.80 £562.80 £718.80 £238.80 £510.00 £598.80 £402.00 £358.80 £534.00 £900.00

This is just a selection of the bricks we keep in stock for immediate delivery. Please call with your requirements.

WE STOCK INSULATION, AIRBRICKS, ADMIXTURES, HESSIAN, WALL STARTERS, AGGREGATES, CEMENT, CHIMNEY POTS & TERMINALS, STEEL LINTELS, TARMAC, DPC, RE-INFORCING MESH & BAR, TOOLS, PROTECTIVE TARMAC, MORTAR MIX, ADMIXTURES CLOTHING & SAFETY ITEMS, CAVITY TRAYS, DRAINAGE, Etc,etc,etc

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CLAY & CONCRETE BLOCK PAVING

Prices refer to Sq Mtr - Linear Mtr or Each Ex vat Blockleys Clay Paviors 50mm (6 colours) (Castleyard,Hadley Red/Brindle, etc) £16.99 Marshalls 50mm Brindle Block Paving £10.99 Marshalls 50mm Red Block Paving £10.99 Marshalls 50mm Sunrise Block Paving £10.99 Marshalls 50mm Bracken Block Paving £10.99 FORMPAVE 50mm Buff Block Paving £10.99 Marshalls 50mm Charcoal Block Paving £10.99 FORMPAVE 50mm Golden Brin Block Paving £10.99 FORMPAVE 60mm Block Paving All Colours £11.99 Marshall Tegula Drivesett (All Colours) £19.50 Marshalls Clay Cobbles - Sherbourne Red £57.38 Ashbourne Red Marshall Driveline Elite £21.99 Firebrick Castacrete Rumbled Economy Setts Autumn/Grey/Dark Grey £17.99 Marshall Kerbs per mtr from £13.75 Brindle/Red/Charcoal Marshalls KS Corner Kerb £8.50 All Colours Marshalls KL Corner Kerb £9.75 All Colours Marshall Keychannel Gulley -Brindle/Red/Char £17.44 Marshalls KS Radial Kerb - Brindle/Red/Char £20.98 Marshall KL Radial Kerb - Brindle/Red/Char £27.94 Marshalls Clay Kerbline - All Colours each £1.92 Marshalls 4 in 1 Driveline Kerb Brindle/Red/Charcoal £18.20 Marshalls 4 in 1 Drivesett Kerb Pennant Grey £20.86 Marshalls Tegula Kerb - Traditional £3.62 Marshall Drivesett Kerb - Traditional £1.82 £360.80 Marshalls Drivesett Circle - Traditional £44.00 Blockpave Manhole Cover 600 x 450mm £3.99 25kg Dry Kiln Sand £13.99 5ltr Path & Patio Seal £42.03 5ltr Keybond Jointing Sand Stabiliser Other Marshalls products not stocked are available within 3/5 days.

inc vat £19.91 £13.19 £13.19 £13.19 £13.19 £13.19 £13.19 £13.19 £14.39 £23.40 £68.85 £26.39 £21.59 £16.50 £10.20 £11.70 £20.93 £25.18 £33.53 £2.30 £21.84 £25.03 £4.30 £2.18 £432.96 £52.80 £4.79 £16.79 £50.43

Building Sand/Sharp Sand/Ballast/Scalpings - 40kg Solent Gold Pea Shingle & 20mm Stone - 40kg Black Tarmacadam - 25kg Red Gravel - 23kg Staffordshire Pink Rounded -23kg Green Gravel - 23kg Cotswold Buff - 25kg Silver Grey - 25kg Decorative Slate Chips Green/Plum /Blue- 23kg Canterbury Spar - 23kg Scottish Pebbs/Cobbs - 25mm/40mm - 25kg Highland Cobbles 120mm - 23kg White Chippings - 23kg Spanish White Cobbles - 25kg Spanish White Pebbles - 25kg Play Pit Sand - 25kg Knapped Flint per kg Purbeck Rockery - per kg York Rockery - per kg 40mm Solent Gold Stones - 40kg 50 - 80mm Solent Gold Cobbles - 40kg General Purpose Topsoil - 40kg Crushed Glass -10kg- Blue/Green

ex vat

inc vat

£2.60

£3.12

£2.60 £6.99 £3.99 £4.99 £3.99 £3.99 £3.99 £3.99 £6.99 £4.99 £5.99 £5.99 £6.99 £5.99 £3.50 £0.40 £0.13 £0.13 £2.60 £2.60 £2.60 £6.49

£3.12 £8.39 £4.79 £5.99 £4.79 £4.79 £4.79 £4.79 £8.39 £5.99 £7.19 £7.19 £8.39 £7.19 £4.20 £0.48 £0.16 £0.16 £3.12 £3.12 £3.12 £7.79

BULK BAGS (Min 850kgs): Building Sand/Sharp Sand/Ballast/Scalpings - each (1 tonne) Solent Gold Pea Shingle & 20mm Stone - each (1 tonne) Red Gravel - each Green Gravel - each Cheshire Pink Rounded - each Spanish White Cobbles - each Cotswold Buff - each Decorative Slate Chippings - 3 Cols each Scottish Cobbles - 40mm - each Scottish Pebbles - 25mm - each Purbeck Rockery - per tonne York Rockery - per tonne

£41.50

£49.80

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ex vat inc vat £75.18 £90.22

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Care when it’s needed most.

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paul slater designer landscapes Naturally creative gardens built for life.

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green | fingers

March Gardening There weren’t many opportunities for gardening at the start of the year but spring is on its way and now’s the time to prepare for new growth. Get into the ‘little and often’ habit in the garden for an enjoyable growing season.

Supplied by Paul Gibbons, Garsons Garden Centre www.garsons.co.uk Our plant of the month is the Vinca. This evergreen has long-lasting flowers and is easy to grow in all soil types and conditions except very dry soil. It provides ground cover, and flowers from spring through to autumn. Recommended varieties are Bowles and Ralph Shugart which both have violet flowers, and Gertrude Jekyll which has white flowers.

Continuing the theme of shrubs with gorgeous blooms, the Camellia is an old favourite with its showy blooms and glossy leaves. As mentioned last month, it’s ericaceous (acid-loving) so if you don’t have acid soil, put yours in a pot or container of ericaceous soil and treat to a regular ericaceous feed.

If you’re looking for something smaller than a Camellia, I recommend the Hellebore. They have lovely blooms of white, pink, purple and pale green. They like moisture-retentive soil and a shady spot, so go well under a tree or large shrub. Plant in clusters of three or five for the best effect.

For a fragrant shrub, the Daphne is a winner with its heady scent. Make the most of the fragrance by keeping it close to the house or next to your garden path. They establish best when planted in spring and prefer well-drained and moistureretentive soil. Give them an extra layer of mulch after planting as they don’t like to dry out.

Aim for blooming marvellous roses by giving yours a little care this month. Use a pair of sharp secateurs and cut away dead branches and remove suckers. Suckers are often at the bottom of the plant and are so called because they suck the energy away from the plant. They look different to the main rose, with paler leaves. Apply a granular or powder rose feed around the

base of the plant. Roses are quite heavy feeders and signs of lack of nutrients will show with discoloured leaves and poor blooms.

Everyone can get into Grow Your Own, even if it’s just a few salad crops on your patio. There are several vegetable grow bags available and it’s surprising what you can produce in a small area. Lettuce, radish, spring onions, beetroot, carrots and turnips can all be sown directly into the ground once the frosts are over, or anytime now if you have a greenhouse or cold frame. There’s plenty of advice available in the garden centre if you’re new to it.

Other jobs for March: Prune large flowered Clematis and early flowering shrubs.

Clear away leaves and debris from the borders and turn the soil, avoiding bulbs and new growth sprouting through.

Improve your soil by digging in compost.

Suppress weeds before they appear with a thick layer of mulch.

Shallots, onions and potatoes can go in the ground now.

Until next month,

happy gardening!

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solent | nature

March on the Marshes Some 900 people volunteer with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.

We depend upon this input to achieve the level of habitat management needed to keep the reserves at their best for visitors and wildlife. A lot of the activity is practical work on site, such as scrub cutting and path maintenance, in recent weeks volunteer teams have been working on three of the reserves working to keep scrub from overtaking flower rich grasslands.

Not all of the volunteer work is scrub cutting though, much of the volunteer input is not what you might not immediately expect. Many of the reserves have cattle grazing during the summer, these animals are essential to keep the grasslands in tip top condition.

On Farlington Marshes up to two hundred cattle graze, they eat off the grass in the summer to produce the shorter sward that the brent geese like in the winter, the geese graze it even shorter so it is ideal for nesting lapwings in the spring. Volunteers provide vital support to staff in checking or ‘Lookering’ these animals, essentially seeing that they are all present and looking healthy. The cattle also need access to water and to be secure in their fields and eyes on the ground can alert us to the need for repairs. On our Swanwick Lakes and Hookheath reserves last year we had some splendid Red Devon cattle, they proved very docile and willing to eat even the toughest of forage, although they were remarkable hard to find at times.

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Volunteers also help with survey work, leading walks, wardening and, especially at Swanwick Lakes, where we have an Education Centre, with education work.

Most volunteers come along because they enjoy working for wildlife or have a particular love of a local site. Some volunteer as a way of gaining experience as a prelude to finding work in nature conservation or enrolling on a course to gain a qualification. Quite a few volunteers are retired and bring a wealth of experience with them in a bewildering range of fields. These skills can also be augmented by training provided by the Wildlife Trust.

If you are interested in becoming a Solent Cowboy, or at least in helping out with lookering or any other volunteering with the Wildlife Trust please contact: Gill Stanton on 01489 774442 Your local Wildlife Trust The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust works to create a better future for wildlife and wild places in Hampshire and the Island. As the leading local wildlife conservation charity, it looks after 61 wildlife reserves, has 27,000 members and 1,000 volunteers. The Trust manages its own land and advises other landowners how to manage their land with wildlife in mind. Staff and volunteers also carry out surveys and gather data to monitor how our local wildlife is doing.

Find out more at www.hwt.org.uk

Words & Images by Robert Chapman

Join us today …and enjoy the benefits of being a member of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. For more information contact our membership team on 01489 774 408.

Unlimited FREE visits to over 55 wildlife reserves in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and 2,500 reserves nationwide A welcome pack when you join Hampshire and Isle of Wight Natural World, the Wildlife Trust’s magazine, delivered to you (or your partner) three times a year The chance to take part in local group and community activities… offering you a variety of opportunities to be involved in more than 400 walks, talks and events throughout the two counties Join by Direct Debit and receive your FREE full colour Local Wildlife Reserve Guide. Visit www.hwt.org.uk and discover your local Wildlife Trust

Check out our local events

Events in February & March 3RD MARCH 2013 Boyatt Wood Community Event - Site accessible from Clandon Drive, Boyatt Wood We are excited to announce a ‘drop in’ style community event located within a section of Boyatt Wood, Eastleigh.

The aim of the event is for anyone from the local community to come along and work alongside staff and volunteers from The Wildlife Trust and Eastleigh Borough Council, who will coppicing small trees within this important tract of semi-natural ancient woodland.

7TH MARCH 2013 Spring at Swanwick Lakes Join reserve staff for a guided walk and take in the sites and sounds of early spring at Swanwick Lakes.

20TH MARCH 2013 Life in the Leaf Litter St Wilfrid’s Church Hall, Padnell Road, Cowplain, (Map ref. SU 694 112). Dr June Chatfield will present an illustrated talk on the importance to ecology and wildlife of saving dead wood and composting etc.

23RD MARCH 2013 Bird Walk at Farlington Marshes Join Roger Clark for a 3 mile walk to see the spring birds at the Trust’s Farlington Marshes reserve.

25TH MARCH 2013 Spring Birdsong Church Hall, Free Street, Bishops Waltham

(Map ref. SU 176 557). Sounds of the spring including recordings by Brian Harrison.

This is your chance to brush up ahead of the Dawn Chorus Walk.

27TH MARCH 2013 Nature in Close-Up Drama Studio, Warblington School, Southleigh Road, Havant, (Map ref. SU 726 063). Expert photographer Andrew Watts will explain how he captured his macro images.

Visit our site www.hwt.org.uk for more details on our local events.

19TH MARCH 2013 Early Spring Walk in the Catherington Area Highcroft Lane, Horndean (Map ref. SU 702 136). Come and look for early spring flowers and birds in Catherington Lith and Down.

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Spring into March Words by Jess Daish-Miller Images by Darin Smith

March is a great month for seeing and hearing signs of spring at Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve.

This is the time of year when birds sing their loudest, marking out and establishing their territories. Many birds, like the familiar blue tits and great tits, will also be starting work on their nests.

Over the last few years, we have been lucky enough to watch great tits nesting in our camera equipped bird box. It is truly fascinating watching the dramas of the nesting season unfold. On one occasion last year, a pair of blue tits appeared to be competing with bumble bees to use the nest box. Any nest box news this spring will appear on our website.

As the weather warms, common frogs emerge from hibernation and head straight for our ponds to breed. Look out for frog spawn, particularly in the small pond near Ben’s Lake. Our other amphibians, toads and newts, also begin to breed this month.

Many of our familiar spring flowers are in bloom in March- primroses and the humble celandine are two of my favourites. These flowers, like other woodland species, bloom early to get the full benefit of the light that reaches the

woodland floor before the leaves develop on the trees. They are an important early nectar source for insects, which in turn help the plants to reproduce by carrying pollen from one flower to another.

Sights and sounds of spring are everywhere at Swanwick Lakes this month!

Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve is an 86 acre reserve located on Sopwith Way, off Swanwick Lane. The reserve is owned

by NATS and managed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. The reserve is open from dawn until dusk for all to enjoy.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust works to create a better future for wildlife and wild places in Hampshire and the Island. Find out more at www.hwt.org.uk.

Join us today and enjoy the benefits of being a member of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.

For more information contact our membership team on 01489 774 408.

5TH MARCH 2013 Swanwick Lakes Wildlife Tots - Tadpole’s Promise 10:30am – 12 noon or 1:00pm – 2:30pm Where the willow meets the water a tadpole met a caterpillar. Explore life cycles at our regular session of stories, games and craft for pre-school children.

The session will involve pond dipping.

Contact Dawn Preston or Jess DaishMiller on 01489 570240. Please bring warm outdoor clothing and wellies. Booking is essential as places are limited. Suggested donation £3 per child.

7TH MARCH 2013 Spring at Swanwick Lakes 10:30am Join reserve staff for a guided walk and take in the sites and sounds of early spring at Swanwick Lakes. Contact Dawn Preston or Jess Daish-Miller on 01489 570240. Please bring warm outdoor clothing and sturdy shoes or boots.

Suggested donation £3 per person.

11TH MARCH 2013 Fareham District Members Group – Flora and Fauna of Hampshire 7:30pm An illustrated talk by photographer Gordon Small including wildlife of the Lower Test, Titchfield Haven, Martin Down and the New Forest. All members and non members welcome. To be held at Holy Trinity Church Hall, Trinity Street, Fareham.

Parking is available in Western Road car park or in Trinity Street. For further details, please contact Peter Adams on 01329 287653. Suggested donation £2.

SWANWICK LAKES – WILDLIFE WATCH GROUP Wildlife Watch is a local club for young people who are interested in wildlife and the environment. The Watch Group has two events in March. Booking is essential.

Saturday 2nd March 10:30am – 12noon March into Spring Thursday 21st March 6:30pm – 8:00pm Eggheads For more information or to book your place please contact Carly Fretwell on 07733 980980 or Michelle Crooks 07784 391604.

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solent | nature

Events in March

solent | charity

IN FULL

VIEW Words By DAVID ROSE-MASSOM

AGE CONCERN is not the trendiest of names for an organisation but as Director Rick Smith told Solent Life “we do what it says on the tin.”

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them change and cope with that. We have a fifty year old who used to lead a really active life but is now suffering with dementia, and yet he always walks from our centre with a smile. We give him support and his family respite.

“Everyone comes with their own set of needs but, as an organisation, we need to be there for the individual, so we try to meet the needs of several people with a group activity and while that is our broad challenge, for the centre managers that is their daily challenge. The people we deal with may be ‘clients’, but they are all so much more than that; they are individuals and friends.

With a staff throughout Hampshire that is 180 strong, plus the 400 volunteers, Rick has a huge organisation under his wing. “Everyone is simply dedicated to the care we provide, from top to bottom this is a warm and caring organisation and we are all motivated by that need to care. I am in awe of the volunteers and the passion and commitment they show, everyone puts in that extra bit of graft and that impresses me immensely.”

It is said that society is judged by how it treats its old people; if the work carried out by Rick, his staff, the volunteers and the carers throughout Hampshire and within his organisation of Age Concern is anything to go by – then we are living in a good society. But, it can always be better!

www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk If you wish to know more about Age Concern, its work or how to volunteer, then E-mail Rick on

rick.smith@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk or call into their offices at 1, St Cross Road, Winchester, SO23 9JA

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solent | charity

“Elderly people were once seen as ‘out of sight out of mind’,” Rick told us at Age Concern’s Winchester office, “Social care is something that people do not see as their responsibility; so we are making ourselves more open to the public and heightening awareness and this in turn is raising our standards of care."

As an example of their work, in Bishops Waltham, Age Concern is constructing a new building for their use. It’s not just about the people who walk through the door; “This building will put us at the heart of the local community,” continued Rick, “and although people may not come into the building they will, throughout the day, come into contact with the carers, the staff and the people who use our services.

“Sadly the group mentality of us all within the community can be, ‘but it is not our problem!’ but any problem within the community can be solved simply by awareness, that is half the battle. Yes, we need money and we need volunteers and we already have 400 across Hampshire, but more importantly, we need that awareness” “If you have an elderly neighbour or relative; take two minutes of your day to just to think of that person. In this broad world it may not seem much, but just to give them a moment of your time is valuable.”

Rick Smith has only been with the organisation for less than a year but the passion he has for the charity and for the people involved with the giving of care is obvious. “We have just completed a vision statement for Age Concern and the ‘headlines’ of that statement set out our aims and goals.”

The overall reason for Age Concern’s existence is to assist older people in increasing their independence, their knowledge, income, wellbeing and sense of purpose, with the two main thrusts being…

TRUST – they are committed to earning and keeping the trust of their service users, staff and volunteers, partners and older people of Hampshire.

FAIRNESS AND DIGNITY – where they value diversity highly, and respect the needs of the individuals and strive to deliver services that ensure all older people can lead fulfilling and independent later life, with dignity.

“This is who we are, and what we are, and why we make ourselves accessible,” explained Rick, “Another example; we have the biggest computer classes and they are held in a variety of venues including pubs, so that we can teach people about social networking media, such as Facebook and Skype, in order that they can keep in contact with friends and family.

But we also offer daily respite care; and there is always the need for more carers!

“Our team visit people from all walks of life,” he added. “We are about engaging people; everyone has different needs, everything from frailty to dementia, but we can help

MARCH Your essential guide to all the local news and events in your community.

Lee-on-the-Solent Residents Association The next LoSRA BOOST Event will be held on the 20th March in the Methodist Church Hall, Lee High Street, Lee-on-the-Solent, set up at 9am and open to the public between 9.30am - 1pm. Meet community groups/organisations. To book a table, 6ft at £6 and 4ft at £4, payable on the day, at the BOOST events, contact Ray Harding 023 9255 1706 or Gill Masterson 023 9255 1303.

One Pride One People Havant Dynamo Youth Theatre present an original musical based on the people of Portsmouth in the aftermath of WWI. Wednesday 10th April, 7.30pm. Kings Theatre, Southsea. Tickets £10 / £8 Box Office 023 9282 8282 Ancestry Beginners Workshop Thursday 21st March - Local Studies Centre, High Street, Gosport. Come and learn how to use the library edition of Ancestry so you can make a start on your family tree or delve into a range of records to enhance your research further.

Workshop Fee £9. Please book - 023 9252 3463 www.hants.gov.uk/gdc.

Help name the New Community North of Fareham Fareham Borough Council is asking Fareham residents to take part in a once in a lifetime opportunity, by helping to decide the name for the New Community North of Fareham, in a consultation running until Sunday 31st March. The Council has researched local historical records to come up with the three names that people can consider. Each of the three names has a close historical connection with the land to the North of Fareham: Spurlings: The name ‘Spurlings’ is marked on the 1879 Ordnance Survey map. In 1841 it was occupied by Charles Osborn (1794-1859).

Charles Osborn developed the Victorian villas along Osborn Road. Swansdell: Swans Dell Cottage was occupied in 1841 by the gamekeeper of Roche Court and a labourer John Stares. Swans Dell Cottage is marked on the 1879 Ordnance Survey map. Welborne: Welborne relates to fields immediately north of Kiln Road and south of Kneller Court. The land was occupied at the time of the tithe map by John Budd. He occupied a lot of land in the area including a house, garden yard and buildings at North Fareham and also the former Pooke Farm. The land was owned as part of Fareham Manor by the Gardiner family of Roche Court.

Vote online at www.fareham.gov.uk or on Fareham‘s Facebook page ‘FarehamBC’.

Visit the Civic Offices and upcoming CAT Meetings and vote using tokens.

Mishaps of a Student Teacher The Warsash WI meets the last Thursday of every month, in the Victory Hall, at 2pm.

At the next meeting on March 28th Miss R Warren will talk about the “Mishaps of a Student Teacher”. Visitors and new members are always welcome. For further information please ring Mary Ford on 01489 584923.

The Warsash Over 60’s Fellowship Club Meeting fortnightly on Monday afternoons at 2pm in The Victory Hall, Warsash and on Monday 10th March Mrs Betty Daughty’s talk is about “The History of Nursery Rhymes”. New members and visitors are always welcome. For further information please ring Mary Ford 01489 584923.”

The Portsmouth Choral Union Next concert Saturday 23rd March at 7.30pm at St Mary’s Church, Portsmouth where they shall be performing Bach’s St John Passion for their Easter Concert.

Tickets are £14 with concessions available.

IF YOU HAVE A LOCAL EVENT Let us know at info@solentlife.co.uk

Please note we need 6-8 weeks notice of events.

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Tickets will be available on the door or in advance from Rosemary Kerridge at rosemary.kerridge@sauletashworth.co.uk or by contacting her on 023 9282 2227.

The choir will be joined by Southern Pro Musica with David Gostick conducting.

Volunteers wanted to help improve woods and rivers If you have an interest in the River Blackwater, an evening at Plaitford Village Hall on 11th March at 7pm will feature talks and open discussions where you can find out how to get involved in conserving the river. The Community Wildlife Plans project is aimed at encouraging local communities to identify wildlife habitats such as grassland, hedgerows, ponds, rivers and woodland in their local area.

The project is focussing on the areas of Godshill, Hordle, Landford, Marchwood, Milford on Sea, New Milton and Wellow.

Angela Peters, the Community Wildlife Plans Project Officer is also looking for people with an interest in animals, flowers, birds, bats or bees to become ‘wildlife champions’. For more information on the volunteering opportunity visit: www. newforestnpa.gov.uk/communitywildlife.

Ladies Lets Lunch On Monday 22nd April at the Concorde Club, Eastleigh, with all proceeds going to Special Olympics GB with special guest Lawrie McMenemy MBE. Rhian Fashion House Show, Lunch, Raffle and Auction.

Noon drinks reception with lunch at 1pm.

Tickets from Sandy at Rhian 01489 570560.

Spring Dance At Gosport’s Thorgate Hall on Saturday 16th March from 8pm until 11pm. Featuring a fabulous double ballroom demonstration

by Stepehen Arnold and Yasmin Priestnall, an exciting and newly formed partnership with music by Colin Mansbridge and compere Claire Taplin. Tickets just £12.50 on 023 9252 9768 or from Harbour Cancer Support Centre, South Street, Gosport.

A good question you might ask.

Many people, particularly those in business will have heard of us but few know the full extent of what we do.

?

Some of the common perceptions we hear are: It’s an organisation full of solicitors and accountants – actually that couldn’t be further from the truth. Whilst we obviously have some of these professionals in membership we also have a very wide variety from tourism and leisure, education, manufacturing, transport and logistics. Some of our more unusual members include a Cathedral, Tea Importer, Bingo Hall and a Zoo! Why should we pay a membership fee when you are government funded?

The Chamber is itself a small business employing 21 people and receives no government funding (with the occasional exception if we are delivering a project). We are Not for Profit and funded from membership fees and from the services we provide to members and non members

have included Team Duck Herding, Carols and Ice Skating, Cocktail Making and Speed Networking

You are only interested in big business Whilst we have many of the larger organisations in Hampshire as members, in reality over half of our businesses employ less than 10 people

Of course there is the more serious side to the Chamber too but we try to deliver events that are interesting and informative to businesses of all shapes and sizes in a relaxed and friendly setting

It is full of men in grey suits too formal and not relevant to the current day Another interesting misconception as the majority of our events have more than 50% women attending, our chamber staff is very female dominated and our events programme offers something for everyone. Some of our more fun events

We also embrace new ways of operating including social media and are currently developing a Chamber App. The Chamber of Commerce means different things to different businesses. If you are not already a member why not contact our membership team and find out what we can offer you and your business please feel free to email us at email: membership@hampshriechamber.co.uk

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For your chance to win tickets to Caro Emerald’s sold out show at the Bournemouth Pavilion on Saturday March 9th, tune in to the Breeze Breakfast show with David Perry on Wednesday 6th March.

MARCH 2013 •

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out&

about

Solent Life has been venturing out across the region to capture and bring to you some images from the notable events of the past few weeks…

words & images by david rose-massom

FRIENDLY FACES OF BRIGHTON

Another of the great things about our travels and journeys here at Solent Life are the characters we meet when out and about and on our visit to Brighton to research the Coast and Country feature for this month we certainly met a few of those wonderful people that make our days go by with a few more smiles on our faces…

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ON YOUR BIKE

Close to 100 riders took part in the last Winter event at Gosport BMX Club, teams from Bournemouth and Andover joined local riders that included all ages from, believe it or not, 2 years to 62 years of age. The day started with the Strider event, bikes for toddlers with no pedals, and the racing was fierce and fun. Then it was the turn of the youngsters, the elite youngsters - including a rider ranked number two in the world and then the veterans. In brilliant sunshine it was a day out for the whole family, rarely can sport and family be celebrated together quite so well. www.gosportbmx.co.uk

J. S. WEALTH MANAGEMENT

The Solent Life regular contributor on all things involved with finance, Justin Stevens of J. S. Wealth Management, has always been keen on working closely with others in the sector, from estate agents to solicitors and anyone else that may be useful to his clients and our readers. To that end Justin held an open day at his Fareham ‘shop’ and invited us along to meet some of his colleagues. www.justin-stevens.co.uk

MARCH 2013 •

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Events across the Solent region.

what’s

THE EVENT There are magical Easter days out with Cadbury and the National Trust at a beautiful location near you!

r E M T A G S IC A E

The Point, Eastleigh 02380 652333 Chichester Festival Theatre 01243 781312 Salisbury Playhouse 01722 320333 Mayflower Theatre 02380 711811 Theatre Royal Winchester 01962 840440 King’s Theatre Southsea 02392 828282 Tower Arts Centre, Winchester 01962 867986 Ferneham Hall 01329 231942 Ashcroft Arts Centre Fareham 01329 310600 The Concorde Club 02380 613989

If you have anything going on, tell us here at Solent Life and we will include it in our feature.

01489 583800 editorial@solentlife.co.uk

For the sixth year running, Cadbury and the National Trust are teaming up to help families celebrate Easter weekend (29th March – 1st April) together by offering fun Easter Egg Trails at special National Trust places throughout Hampshire.

Taking place in some stunning locations, the Easter egg trails offer plenty of excitement, and chocolaty rewards for all participants. The trails take children on an adventure every time, as they follow cryptic clues around picturesque gardens or buildings, complete fun-filled challenges and each trail is unique to its location and offers a wide range of activities for all the family to enjoy, from egg and spoon races to hot cross bun baking!

Mottisfont near Romsey Easter egg trail through these world famous gardens, leading to a chocolaty prize. 29, 30, 31 March and 1 April, 10am- 5pm, normal admission charge plus £2 per trail. Egg and Spoon Race: set off from the starting line, and try to complete the assault course without dropping your precious egg. Mums and Dads you will need to take a spoon!

New Forest – Foxbury Common The beautiful and exciting wilderness that is Foxbury Common is hosting two days of Easter fun, with a family trail that takes children on a hunt for clues, leading to an Easter egg prize. 31 March and 1 April, 11am –4pm, £3 each, booking advisable on 01794 344020 The Vyne, near Basingstoke The Cadbury ‘eggheads’ have escaped! Follow the Easter egg trail through the

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.co.uk • MARCH 2013

grounds and track down a chocolate treat. 1 April, 11am – 5pm, normal admission charge only.

Hinton Ampner, near Alresford 10 giant eggs have been hidden in the gardens, leading to the Golden Egg. Take up the quest and follow clues that will end in a chocolate egg prize. There’s more fun in the house, with face painting workshops, and a chance to hunt out the popular Hinton Ampner Bunnies, all dressed in their best Easter outfits! 29 March to 1 April, 10am –4pm, normal admission charge plus £2 per trail.

Winchester City Mill Enjoy Easter egg trails and quizzes at this 18th-century working watermill, with Cadbury chocolate treats for all participants. The spicy aroma of hot cross buns will be floating across the Mill this Easter; discover how the freshly milled flour is combined with other local ingredients to make these delicious tea-time treats. Easter egg trails: 29 March to 7 April, 11am – 4pm. Hot cross bun baking: 30 March and 6 April, 11am – 4pm.

To join in with the Easter fun, simply visit www. eastereggtrail.comwhere you can find your nearest Cadbury and National Trust Easter Egg Trail and Egg and Spoon race, along with tips on how to make the most of the Easter weekend at home. For those who want to continue the experience afterwards, there is also a Cadbury Easter Egg Trail Pack - the perfect kit for exciting egg trails at home.

Music, Comedy, Events & Theatre CATS: Based on T.S Eliot’s ‘Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats’, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record- breaking adaptation CATS is directed by Trevor Nunn, with choreography by Gillian Lynne. Re-creating the direction and choreography for the tour is Chrissie Cartwright. Including one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most memorable musical scores, spectacular set design, extraordinary costumes and stunning choreography, CATS is a uniquely magical musical. On just one special night of the year, all Jellicle cats meet at the Jellicle Ball where Old Deuteronomy, their wise and benevolent leader, makes the Jellicle choice and announces which of them will go up to the heaviside layer and be reborn into a whole new Jellicle life. Music, dance and verse fuse together in an enchanting blend of fantasy, drama and romance.

MAYFLOWER THEATRE, Southampton - Tue 11th until Sat 22nd June Tickets from The Mayflower Box Office tel: 023 80711 811, online at mayflower.org.uk or in person from the Mayflower ticket south shop in The Marlands Southampton. Ovation Restaurant bookings: 023 8071 1833.

EMSWORTH ARTS TRAIL: 27th 28th April & 4th 5th 6th May. So much artistic talent in one small area and so what better way to spend a spring day? The Emsworth Arts Trail 2013 is a wonderful opportunity to visit the wealth of talent in local studios and workshops over two exciting weekends.

This is a chance to see and purchase original works, cards and reproductions as well as meeting the makers in over forty venues. The Trail Guide leads you on a delightful tour around this vibrant picturesque coastal village with painting, ceramics, photography, jewellery, textiles, furniture and much more vying for your attention. Trail Guides will be available free from local shops, businesses and Trail venues or on the website at www. emsworthartstrail.org.uk where you can also view a virtual gallery from the 2012

Trail. Other local arts trails taking place are: JOOLS HOLLAND AND HIS RHYTHM AND Hayling Island 11th & 12th May and Havant, BLUES ORCHESTRA: Musical master of Leigh Park & Waterlooville 18th & 19th May. ceremonies Jools Holland and his much loved Rhythm & Blues Orchestra will be 25 – 4 – 25: A series of 25 wildlife events to bringing their audience-pleasing, footlaunch 25 year celebrations at Moors Valley stomping ‘big band’ back to The Mayflower Country Park, which is near Ringwood, Theatre, and this time the special guest and they are running a huge range of will be pop superstar Melanie C. With events throughout the year to mark its 25th long time drummer Gilson Lavis, vocalists anniversary. The events, including wildlife Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall, and walks, illustrated talks, pond dipping and acclaimed trombonist Rico Rodriguez, photography walks, reflect Moors Valley’s along with the peerless musicianship of ability to balance the needs of its visitors the rest of the Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, with those of its indigenous wildlife. The 25 Jools Holland will perform tracks spanning wildlife events kick-off on 16 March with his entire solo career, as well as songs the Art and Skills of Wildlife Photography, a taken from his latest album The Golden relaxed and informative talk by professional Age Of Song. MAYFLOWER THEATRE, wildlife and landscape photographer Southampton. Tickets for Jools Holland on Mike Read. Other events include a Dawn Sunday 10 November are on sale from The Chorus Walk, Meet the Minibeasts event, Mayflower Box Office tel: 023 8071 1811, Nuts about Nature family sessions and online at mayflower.org.uk or in person from a dragonfly walk and exhibition. For a the Mayflower ticket south shop in The full list of the wildlife events and all 25th Marlands Southampton. anniversary activities at Moors Valley visit the website www.moors-valley.co.uk or KEN DODD HAPPINESS SHOW: The contact the Rangers on 01425 470721 for veteran entertainer Ken Dodd is to bring further details. his ever-popular show back to Ferneham Hall this month. A national treasure who BRIAN MAY AND KERRY ELLIS: These two big names are teaming up for candlelit has been entertaining audiences for more than 50 years; this comedy legend is acoustic show in support of the Born Free Foundation. The Born Free Tour is coming bringing his famous ‘Happiness Show’ to to the Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre on Fareham on Sunday 31st March and it is 18 June. The Born Free Tour, will electrify a funfilled variety show for all the family audiences with rock superstar, Queen which will feature guests, nonstop gags guitarist Brian May performing new and a selection of songs in celebration of arrangements of songs he has specially over half a century of hilariousness from the chosen to be sung by Kerry, accompanying ‘Squire of Knotty Ash.’ You’ll be absolutely her on both guitar and vocals. The Born ‘discumknockerated’ (that’s Knotty Ash for Free Tour follows a series of acclaimed ‘over the moon’) by a truly ‘tattifelarious’ performances by Kerry & Brian together over the past few years. BIC, Bournemouth evening of laughter and songs presented by Tuesday 18 June at 8pm and tickets are on a comic genius. Ken Dodd will be appearing sale now at £39. Call the BH Live Tickets on at Fareham’s Ferneham Hall on Sunday 31 0844 576 3000, book online at www.bic.co.uk March at 7pm. Tickets priced £21 (Fareham or visit the BIC or Bournemouth Pavilion Leisure Card Holders £20). To book or for Ticket Office in person. Groups 10+ 01202 further information call 01329 231942 or visit 451865. www.fernehamhall.co.uk.

MARCH 2013 •

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the

mindgym ACROSS 1. Composition written in America, not Britain (12) 9. Queen, surrounded by organic material, reveals bone. Doesn’t sound too serious though (7) 10. German glitter, in another country (7) 11. Difficult understanding, no sign, no longer needed (9) 12. We hear that a movie star went under a train (5) 13. In charge, I do it badly. That’s stupid! (7) 15. Enquiring in the guise of a monarch (6) 18. Call numbers 1, 6 and 10 out (6) 20. Overseas region to be resettled after the end of relief (7) 24. Where you use a rifle from start to finish (5) 25. Posing awkwardly next to odd sites, they indicate direction to take (9) 27. At a high level, it resembles French dishwater (7) 28. Extreme amnesia about violent crime here, North or South (7) 29. Colourful shifting patterns found in ramshackle lakeside co-op (12)

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Crossword

DOWN 1. Stick together and cheer frantically about nothing (6) 2. Negative reply by insane traveller (5) 3. In the studio, in concert, or on tour in North American city (7) 4. Devil’s Island (8) 5. South Pacific - I got involved with that twice, unfortunately (6) 6. This collection gets B minus, surprisingly nothing more (7) 7. Whether cavalier or jackass, it could apparently kill you (8) 8. Working together beneficially, with only a little synchronicity, but lots of energy (7) 14. Person born in the south-west many years ago (8) 16. Upset purist, put out after start of diatribe. (7) 17. If you mean ‘extended metacarpals’, please write it out in full! (8) 19. Mother takes her seat, but topples it (7) 21. Specific train (7) 22. United in dubious taste, but shrewd (6) 23. Fly usually found at top left of the board (6) 26. In Ireland, it sounds like a crafty turn (5)

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COPYRIGHT

With many thanks to www.sudoku-puzzles.net for the sudoku puzzles, and www.dowedo.net for supplying the crossword puzzle.

2

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1

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