The Dever January 2025

Dever The

The Journal of the Dever Valley

SID is not happy - find out why on page 6

January 2025 90p

Sunday 11th May 2025

“MICHELDEVER STATION the Community Created by the Railway” 185 Years since the completion of London-Southampton railway with the opening of Andover Road - now called Micheldever Station.

We encourage people to arrive at Micheldever station by train wherever possible. There is a reliable, hourly, service on Sundays arriving from either direction. Limited Car Parking is available at the premises of EPR, The Barn, Warren Lane which is a private road behind The Warren Centre.

Booking is essential for all TALKS and all WALKS. Please book through our link on Railway200 website.

TALKS are in Warren Hall, Andover Road, Micheldever Station, Winchester. SO21 3AR

11.00 - 12.00

“From Stockton to Micheldever: 185 Years of Micheldever Station.”

Illustrated talk by Howard Sprenger; Author and Transport Historian. The London & Southampton Railway was one of the earliest lines to open and Howard places our station in the context of the development of railways across the country.

12:00 -13:00

Test Valley Brass playing in marquee on the Recreation Field during the Lunch Interval

13:00 -14:00

“Thomas Brassey: The Greatest Railway Builder in the World.”

Illustrated talk by David Jones, member of the Thomas Brassey Society. We have Brunel Close at Micheldever Station, but, who was really responsible for accomplishing this feat of engineering?

14:00 -15:00

“Trains of Thought and Moving Words: The Language of Railways from the beginning to the Present Day.” Emeritus Professor of the English Language, Christopher Mulvey, will track the contribution made by the railways to the English Language and how this vocabulary travelled throughout the world.

EXHIBITIONS in Warren Hall throughout the day.

To what extent does The Dove Inn demonstrate the Victorian Railway Companies’ concept of Hotel Accommodation for the modern traveller?

Research paper carried out by a student of Southampton University.

Micheldever Station: The Community created by the Railway.

14-panel poster display compiled by Micheldever Station Heritage Group Needlework Panel forming a textile timeline of train travel depicting lost railways.

Presented by the Mid Hants Railway – Watercress Line to commemorate Railway200 Children’s Competition Entries “The Railway was invented 200 years ago, what will (rail) transport be like in 200 years’ time?”

GUIDED WALKS depart from the Station Forecourt

09:30

Micheldever Station’s Hidden History: Guided Tour of the WWII Oil Terminal.

Patrick Craze, Local Historian & Winchester Green Badge Guide. Steps. Max distance 1 mile.

15:10

The Windpump Walk – a four mile, off-road walk taking you out across the fields parallel to the railway line and returning along an ancient drove road. Lynsey Sweeney – Local Rights of Way Volunteers

15:20

Tour of Micheldever Spoil Heaps – unique environment & SSSI with rare flowers and butterflies.

Rough terrain - walk half a mile. We will be accompanied by: Land Owner / Farm Manager/ botanists / archaeologists / historians / entomologists / railway engineer.

15:30

Micheldever Station’s Hidden History: Guided Tour of the WWII Oil Terminal.

Patrick Craze, Local Historian & Winchester Green Badge Guide. Steps. Max distance 1 mile.

Railway Modellers display and working models in the Booking Hall of the railway station.

Dever The

The Journal of the Dever Valley

Contents Dever Valley Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 View From The Rectory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 News from Woodmancote & Popham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 20’s Plenty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Mince Pies And Modified Maps: The 'First Sunday' December Walk . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Parish Council News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Subscription Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Wildlife in Spain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 The Dever Singers Community Choir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 The Dever Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Sutton Scotney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Community Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 News from Micheldever C of E School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Holy Dusters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 School Governors Needed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Church Services for The Dever Benefice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Dever Valley Church Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Jackie’s County Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Tea For A Cause - November 23rd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Looking Out For Our Neighbours This Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Cercle Français de Winchester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 City Councillors’ News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 EV Myths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Forthcoming Events 2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Hall Booking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Micheldever Village Shop - Opening Times . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Sudoku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 January Diary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Regular Dates and Times – Weekly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 The Dever - January 2024 3

Dever Valley Contacts Rev’d Dr Robert Rees, Rector Benefice Co-ordinator Clare Fancourt

07590909811 (rest day Saturday) coordinator.upperdever@hotmail.com

Church Wardens

St. Mary the Virgin Micheldever Louise Keys 07779 304121 Holy Trinity Wonston Sarah Hobhouse 01962 760003 St Margaret's South Wonston Melinda Samms 01962 761036 Roger Keys 01962 881718 St Mary & St Michael Stoke Charity Roland Guy 01962 760259

All Saints’ East Stratton Chris Hilling 01962 795134 Ed Beckwith 01962 774918 St James’ Hunton Caroline Edwards 01962 760230 St James’ Woodmancote Linda Albin 01256 397616

Websites

St Mary the Virgin www.stmarysmicheldever.co.uk Holy Trinity www.wonstonchurch.co.uk Editor: Peter O’Keefe 07515 339279 1 Canada Cottages, Overton Road, Micheldever Station, SO21 3AN. Email: editor@thedever.org Website: www.thedever.org Printing: James Dixon and team Micheldever Anby Dixon Micheldever Station Andy Adams East of railway line Ann Hawkins West of railway line

Annual Subscription January to December for 12 issues: £9.00; £18.00 by post.

Articles for February issue to be received by the editor before 10th January please.

Articles printed in The Dever are accepted ‘as is’ and may not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Editorial Team.

Treasurer: James Dixon

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Dever Advertiser

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The Dever - January 2024

View From The Rectory Happy New Year!

As you read this View from The Rectory, I wonder how much of Christmas is still evident in your homes. I wonder if you are the type of person that as soon as the last of your guests depart on Christmas Day or Boxing Day, you have taken down the tree and packed away the decorations ready for their outing next year, all by tea time. Or, you might be the type of person who decided not to have a tree this year and that you decorated your home lightly and so the transition back to normal will be quick and subtle. Or, indeed, your house might be packed to the roof groaning with trees, now bald of pine needles but full of stars, tinsel and other bright dangly bits and rooms, each of them, akin to a Santa’s Grotto that you are holding on to until the twelfth day of Christmas.

How ever your house is (or was decorated) Christmas itself can feel over before it really began. There is so much that takes place in the lead up to Christmas Day, no more so than in churches across The Dever Benefice (and indeed across the world). For us, the regular services were added to with Services of Lessons and Carols, Messy Christmas and Cribs Services. Christingle Services and then to Midnight Mass and Christmas Day itself. But for Christians all over the world, since the birth of the Christ Child, Christmas itself, is not a day but a season.

Christmas Day, a day of celebration, when we remember the revelation of God in human form, was just the beginning. And, in the church calendar, the weeks that follow in this season of Christmas follow the earliest days in the life of Jesus Christ including the presentation of Christ in the Temple, Simeon’s Blessing and Anna’s Prophesy.

So, whilst it would now seem odd to wish you all a Merry Christmas, I hope that you all, each and every one of you find peace and joy during this Christmas Season as you come to know a little better the true meaning of Emmanual (regardless of how your house is decorated).

With love Rob Rev’d Dr Robert Rees Rector, The Dever Benefice

The Dever - January 2024 5

Micheldever Parish Council

Notice of Meeting

Wednesday 8th January

East Stratton Village Hall 7.45pm This will be an in person meeting of the Parish Council and residents are welcome to attend.

There will be an opportunity for questions from the public at around 8.00pm

www.micheldever-pc.gov.uk

Parish Council Matters – Planning Applications, Meetings–Agendas, Dates & Minutes, Newsletters and more.

20’s Plenty As most of you are aware the Speed Indicator Device (SID) has been operating in the village since September 2023. Prior to this the Police trained Speed Watching team was monitoring the situation.

This could only happen for a couple of hours a week due to a shortage of volunteers.

However the data collected by the team highlighted the necessity for a SID. This was bought by the Parish Council for the safety of the village and is located in Duke Street at the corner of Southbrook Cottages opposite the Lord Rank Playing Field, much frequented by families and dog walkers.

It is possible to download the data and analyse it. This takes place regularly and the results make interesting reading.

For example, since 27th July 2024, it was found that there were approximately 85000 vehicle passages. Of these 85000, 7500 (9%) 6

are above 30mph, 25000 (30%) are above 25mph and 55400 (65%) are above 20mph.

Meaning that only 35% are in fact within the 20mph speed limit. These figures do not reflect the fact that the majority of motorists do not slow down when entering the 20mph zone but only when they view the SID. So PLEASE remember that the speed limit of 20mph is there for the safety of all. Let us hope we improve on the above figures in the year to come.

We wish you all a safe passage through the village at 20mph in 2025.

The Dever - January 2024

Parish Council News Flooding and Riparian Responsibilities The Environment Agency has already advised a risk of flooding in early 2025.

The ground is saturated and problems arise on roads each time it rains as this water is taking longer to drain away. It is essential that watercourses are kept clear to reduce the risk of flooding.

Watercourses include rivers, streams, ditches, drains, culverts, pipes and any other passage through which water may flow.

A riparian owner is the person, or people, with watercourses on, next to or under their property and they are responsible for the maintenance of these watercourses.

If both banks of a watercourse run through (or under) your land, you are fully responsible for its maintenance. If it runs adjacent to your land, even where it may be outside the property boundary shown on your title deeds and the other side of your boundary fence, you are still likely to be responsible for the maintenance of the watercourse bank on your side, to halfway across the bottom of the watercourse.

The riparian owner of any ditches alongside roads is normally the adjoining landowner, as the highway boundary

invariably lies along the top of the bank closest to the road. Although the highway authority (in our case HCC) has the right to discharge rainwater from the highway into these ditches, the landowner is responsible for maintaining them.

The riparian responsibilities under law include allowing the flow of water without obstruction, maintaining the banks and bed of the watercourse and doing nothing to alter the flow of the water. This is all important to reduce the risk of flooding.

Not all watercourses transport water, some act as storage areas but are equally important in preventing flooding elsewhere.

More information is available on the HCC website https://www.hants.gov. uk/landplanningandenvironment/ environment/flooding/landowners Please look to any watercourses on or adjacent to your property and ensure that they are cleared and maintained to allow water to disperse as effectively as possible.

The Parish Council can be contacted via Jocelyn, the Clerk, micheldeverpc@hotmail.co.uk or 01794 368951

Subscription Reminder

Subscriptions are due in January every year. To continue receiving the Dever Magazine and Advertiser please pay your £9 by BACS as follows: Sort Code: 40-46-39 Account: 52117150 Account Name: The Dever Magazine Give your house name as the reference For a digital subscription visit w w w.thedever.org

The Dever - January 2024 7

News from Woodmancote & Popham St. James’ was packed for the Carol Service in December. It was fantastic to see so many people there, around 80! Rev’d Rob and Claire led the Service. We had the fantastic addition of a wonderful Benefice choir, which was to sing at four Carol Services over the Festive period in Churches around the Benefice, led by our new Music Director Ian Parker. Ian picked two beautiful pieces of music–Benjamin Britten’s Balulalow and Away in a Manger arranged by Reginald Jacques. Afterwards it was all back to Rownest Meadow where the ever hospitable Mary and Nick welcomed us with cheese, ham and wine. Such a treat and the best start to Christmas–I write this

every year, but it is a Christmas tradition for me that Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without! Another tradition is going to Burcot Farm at East Stratton to pick out our Christmas tree and maybe another unusual decoration or two! Some things

8

never get old or boring, some things just have to be done. I’m sure you all have lots of wonderful family Christmas traditions. As I write it is not yet Christmas and we still have the Service on Christmas Morning

to come. Christmas is a wonderful time of the year, but it can also be a time for reflection and I’m sure we all remember loved ones not here to celebrate with us any more but of course we never forget them.

On writing this 2025 still seems a long way off, but looking forward to January, we have a Service of Choral Evensong on Sunday 19th at 6pm, then in February the first of our traditional farming Services–Plough Service on Sunday 16th at 3pm. We do hope you can join us at both of these Services.

Jane

The Dever - January 2024

Mince Pies And Modified Maps: The 'First Sunday' December Walk December was a squally month and Sunday 1st December started things off as the weather meant to go on.

Rain, some keen wind and a fair bit of mud did not deter our hardy walkers from gathering at the Half Moon in Micheldever, and setting off for an explore. With Sue Bell–our regular trusty leader–away, Lynsey Sweeney picked out the route with Paul Howland from the Ramblers. Lynsey was keen to show new possible rights of way as a local RoWVer*, and Paul brought expertise from the Ramblers 'Don't Lose Your Way' campaign.

Just past the halfway point on the Alresford Drove, we paused to have a mince pie or two (big thanks to Kate Grunstein for baking some) and hear from Paul on the campaign to save 'lost paths' and the 'definitive map modification orders' required to mark maps back into rights of way. There's clearly a lot of work going on in Hampshire and nationally to open

up old, former rights of way for us all to use, and we really appreciated Paul's informative and expert talk on this.

We made the walk a 5 mile loop and returned to the Half Moon for well deserved refreshments and the first good greetings of the festive season.

Our thanks go to Paul Howland, a great guest and welcome back to walk with the 'first Sunday' crowd anytime.

Thanks also to everyone who joined our walk and made a donation to the work of the Micheldever Parish RoWVers*- your contribution will go towards much needed equipment used across the parish to keep our pathways clear.

Everyone is welcome on these walks, check your Dever magazine for details of each walk though the year ahead.

Final thanks should go to Sue Bell, walker, planner, meeter, greeter and all round local legend who puts the First Sunday walks together through each and every year.

To everyone, Happy New Year. (*Rights of Way Volunteers)

The Dever - January 2024 9

Wildlife in Spain On 29th November the Dever Valley Local History Society and St Mary the Virgin Church, Micheldever joined forces for a special event to start Christmas celebrations and raise money for the Church. The festivities began with delicious cheese snacks to accompany a glass of wine. The speaker for the evening was Andy Tucker, the subject Exploring Wildlife in Remote Regions of Spain. Andy is a specialist in nature and has travelled extensively in South America, in Venezuela, Peru and Ecuador before joining Naturetrek Tour Company based in Alton, travelling particularly in wild habitats in Spain with very small groups of travellers. (www.naturetrek. co.uk). Andy generously donated his lecture fee to Micheldever Church funds.

In parts of Northern Spain, the countryside is perfect for studying wildlife and botany.

There are bears, wolves

Rollers, seen in Extremadura

and lynx in the wild south of Seville in Andalucia.

There is very little farming machinery and no pesticides or noise pollution. The travel company works closely with local birdwatchers and charities which protect wildlife. The photography which produced images for the talk was amazing, showing animals, reptiles, butterflies, plants and birds with dazzling coloured plumage not seen in the rest of Europe.

MI C HE L DE V ER LU N CH Wednesday 5th February 10

The Dever - January 2024

The Dever Singers Community Choir New project for 2025 – New members wanted Following a successful 40th Anniversary year, we are preparing to embrace a new challenge: Opera!

From January, we will be learning some operatic choruses to culminate in a pair of ‘Night at the Opera’ Summer concerts in June. However, to make the most of this and allow a wider repertoire, we would really benefit from more lower voices (i.e. men) to enrich and balance our sound.

No auditions are needed and no previous singing experience or ability to read music is needed, although that would be a bonus. New ladies are also welcome as always. Not sure how you feel about opera? Neither are many of us but, with your help, we’re looking forward to having fun exploring it.

Lifting your voice in song also lifts your spirits so why not give us a try!

Rehearsals are on Thursday evenings at 8 - 10 pm at either: St. Mary’s Church, Micheldever (Summer term) or St. Margaret’s Church, South Wonston (Spring term from 9th January 2025).

Further information from www.micheldevervillages.org or contact ruthironton@gmail.com, 01962 774817 / 07784967464

The Dever Website Visit The Dever website www.thedever.org for information on the journal, how to subscribe and to catch up on archived issues. Scan the QR code �

The Dever - January 2024 11

Sutton Scotney Community Café Visitors were able to escape the cold, damp, November weather and enjoy the warmth of the Victoria Hall, our chosen charity this month. The hall is a valuable community space enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Today we welcomed a group of young adults from Thrive Day Services in Chandlers Ford, who had been out and about in the village geocaching! They warmed up after their expedition with cake and hot chocolate – and hoped to come again in December.

We raised a total of £385 after expenses from cake and coffee sales. In addition, local supporter Eryl, raised £85 for the hall fund by selling some beautiful pre-loved scarves in the foyer. All the café volunteers were able to get a preview of the scarves before we opened the doors to visitors – and several sales were made before 9.30am!

The next Sutton Scotney Community Café will be at the Victoria Hall, Sutton Scotney, 9.30am–12 noon on Wednesday 15th

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January.

This month our chosen charity is the Countess of Brecknock Hospice.

The hospice provides outstanding palliative and end of life care to adults suffering from life-limiting illness who live in Andover, Stockbridge and surrounding villages, together with comfort and support for their loved ones and carers.

Several of the café volunteers have experienced first hand the support given by the hospice.

Please do come along to support the community café, which is staffed entirely by volunteers. All the cakes are homemade, we have real coffee and plenty of free parking! As well having a gluten free cake option every month, we also have delicious homemade biscotti and a savoury offering. All the cakes are available to eatin or takeaway – in fact some of our regulars bring their own takeaway containers!

The café is cash only.

Janis Kinnell The Dever - January 2024

The disasters that made Hampshire (and their silver linings)

by Erica Wheeler

Popular, local Blue & Green Badge Tour Guide

7.30 pm – Tuesday, 11th February 2025 Warren Centre, Micheldever Station, SO21 3AR

£5 entry & Donation Bar available

News from Micheldever C of E School As we approach the conclusion of this term, I am pleased to reflect on the numerous accomplishments and events that have enriched our school community. The festive season has brought a number of celebrations, showcasing the talents and dedication of our children and staff.

The Key Stage 1 nativity performance was a testament to the hard work and creativity of our youngest pupils. Their excellent performance of 'Hey Ewe' retold the Christmas story, delighting the parents and instilling a sense of pride in our school community. This was complemented by the winter wonderland event, organised by our dedicated PTA and school staff. Their efforts in creating a magical atmosphere for our children are greatly appreciated.

Willow Class demonstrated exceptional leadership in conducting our Christmas service, while the staff pantomime provided a joyous entertainment for the children.

Beyond the festive activities, our children have continued to excel in various areas. Notable achievements include their participation in football and crosscountry events, where they exhibited commendable sportsmanship and athletic skills. Additionally, the dancing and jig doll workshop offered a unique opportunity for our pupils to explore traditional art forms, enhancing their cultural awareness and creative expression.

I am particularly pleased to report the success of our recent open days. The high attendance demonstrates the strong interest in our school within the local 14

community. For parents considering Micheldever C of E Primary School for their children, I would like to remind you that the deadline for Year R applications is the 15th of January. We encourage you to submit your applications in a timely manner to secure a place at our school.

Our commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment was reinforced during Anti-Bullying Week. Through various activities and discussions, we continued to promote values of respect, empathy, and kindness among our pupils.

In our ongoing efforts to enhance communication with our school community, I am pleased to announce the launch of our social media platforms.

You can now follow us on Instagram and Facebook for regular updates, celebrations of pupil achievements, and important announcements. We encourage you to connect with us through these channels to stay informed about school activities and engage with our vibrant community.

We look forward to building upon our achievements in the coming year and continuing to provide an enriching educational experience for every child at Micheldever C of E Primary School.

Mr T. Johnston, Headteacher, Micheldever Primary School, 01962 774213

The Dever - January 2024

Retired and keen to continue to use your professional skills for the benefit of your community? Or looking for a way to develop your skills outside of your day job? Have you thought of becoming a school governor? We are currently recruiting additional Governors to join the Dever Federation Governing Body, strategically overseeing Micheldever C of E Primary School and Barton Stacey C of E Primary School.

We are a dedicated team of volunteers.

We work with the headteachers and schools to define and implement strategy, hold the schools to account and provide challenge and support in equal measure.

Members of the governing body bring different skills, for example, strategic leadership, project delivery, finance

expertise, education expertise – a mix of skills is important and new perspectives/ skills are welcome in our team!

If you can volunteer some time and your skills, please do contact Carey Hornby, the governor responsible for recruitment at adminoffice@micheldever.hants.sch.uk.

We’d love to hear from you and can arrange a no obligation chat in the first instance to explore the opportunity.

Your community needs you!

Holy Dusters St Mary the Virgin

Week beginning Monday 30th Dec 6th Jan 13th Jan Flowers From 3rd Jan From 31st Jan

Jan & Jess Liz & Grace Patricia & Ali Vicki Holden & Vivienne Vellacott Alex Young & Gail Bates

St James

Flowers and Cleaning

Liz Hawkesworth & Mary Wallis

The Dever - January 2024 15

Church Services for The Dever Benefice January 5th 9.00 am

10.00 am

10.00 am

10.00 am

11.15 am

January 12th 10.00 am

10.00 am

11.00 am

4.00 am

6.00 pm

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St Mary the Virgin - Micheldever St Mary the Virgin - Micheldever St Margaret's - South Wonston

St Mary & St Michael - Stoke Charity Holy Trinity - Wonston

2nd Sunday of Epiphany

Holy Communion Rev’d Robert Rees Informal Service Ruth & Roland Guy Holy Communion Rev’d Jo Criscenti Evening Prayer Rev’d Rob Rees & Rev’d Jo Criscenti Evensong Rev’d Rob Rees & Rev’d Jo Criscenti

January 19th 10.00 am

10.00 am

4.00 am

6.00 am

6.00 pm

Second Sunday of Christmas

BCP Holy Communion (said) Rev’d Robert Rees Café Church Claire Bentham Holy Communion Rev’d Jo Criscenti Holy Communion Rev’d Robert Rees Holy Communion with Baptism Rev’d Rob Rees & Claire Bentham

St James - Hunton Holy Trinity - Wonston St Margaret's - South Wonston St Mary the Virgin - Micheldever

3rd Sunday of Epiphany

Holy Communion Rev’d Rob Rees Holy Communion Rev’d Jo Criscenti Choral Evensong Rev’d Rob Rees Evensong Rev’d Jo Criscenti Choral Evensong Rev’d Rob Rees

All Saints - East Stratton

St Mary the Virgin - Micheldever St Margaret's - South Wonston Holy Trinity - Wonston

St Mary & St Michael - Stoke Charity St James - Woodmancote

The Dever - January 2024

January 26th 10.00 am

10.00 am

11.00 am

February 2nd 9.00 am

10.00 am

10.00 am

10.00 am

11.15 am

4th Sunday of Epiphany

Café Church Claire Bentham Informal Service with children’s activities Ruth & Roland Guy Holy Communion Rev’d Jo Criscenti & Rev’d Dave Mapes

St Margaret's - South Wonston

St Mary & St Michael - Stoke Charity Holy Trinity - Wonston

Presentation of Christ (Candlemas)

BCP Holy Communion (said) Rev’d Robert Rees Café Church Claire Bentham Holy Communion Rev’d Jo Criscenti Morning Prayer Ruth & Roland Guy Morning Prayer Claire Bentham

St Mary the Virgin - Micheldever St Mary the Virgin - Micheldever St Margaret's - South Wonston

St Mary & St Michael - Stoke Charity Holy Trinity - Wonston

For further information, please contact the Parish Coordinator, email: coordinator.upperdever@hotmail.com

Dever Valley Church Locations All Saints East Stratton SO21 3XA _________________ ruffling.upstarts.disposing Holy Trinity Wonston SO21 3LS ______________________ grub.dove.unpacked St James Hunton SO21 3PX ____________________ lingering.dwistract.improve St James Woodmancote SO21 3BL ____________________ scatters.helper.rating St Margaret's South Wonston SO21 3EW _________________ diver.guises.tarred St Mary the Virgin Micheldever SO21 3DA _____________ sprays.serenade.gripes St Mary and St Michael Stoke Charity SO21 3PG __________ evaded.avoid.lyricist

The Dever - January 2024 17

Jackie’s County Corner Happy New Year!

Thank you to everyone who helped provide so much joy at every Christmas event in December-: there was so much going on in every village! This is Lin and Mandy who are two of our sterling volunteers. Thank you!

Hampshire County Council’s Leaders are putting a brave face on life, but in truth, the County’s finances are in real trouble.

HCC’s Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) was agreed at the County Council at the end of November. It was not a decision about the Council Tax levy, but a factual financial statement to inform council tax decision making by February 2025.

During the period of austerity, central Government funding to local authorities fell by nearly 50%. The challenge now is for the HCC Cabinet to decide how to balance the books before it sets council tax for 25/26 in mid-February. You can learn more about the County’s budget on https://www.hants.gov.uk/aboutthecouncil/ budgetspendingandperformance/ budgetandcounciltax and watch the council meeting live (or recorded) on www.hants.gov.uk The financial picture is complicated, but dire. 1% on council tax raises approx. £8m. The County needs to raise an annual revenue of around £120m more than it does at present, ie: 15% council tax rise. To do this, they’d have to call a referendum as it is 18

over 5%. The cost of a referendum is approx. £650K, adding to the burden. This financial difficulty, built up over the last decade, puts our services that we trust and expect at risk.

Drivers complain about potholes, but many of us especially worry for the provision of education and support for children and adults with special needs. Families get into difficulties for all sorts of reasons, and if the services aren’t available, it’s too easy to fall between the cracks, and sink rather than swim to safety. For me, this must be a priority.

As your Councillor, I feel very frustrated that the Council embarks on so many consultations including the Cart and Horses junction, and the cycling and walking strategy, when consultations cost so much, money is very short, but nothing changes.

I have asked our MP to pursue the matter of M3 Junction 9 and the C&H junction in parliament.

Flooding Ditches are the best way to direct water away from homes. Please don’t forget that if there is a ditch between your property and the road, you are responsible for keeping it clear.

You can see more detail on www.hants.gov.uk ‘search riparian responsibilities’ The Dever - January 2024

Following the storms in December, please keep this Flood warning number handy, and sign up for alerts: www.gov.uk/sign-up-forflood-warnings or Phone: 0345 988 1188.

Many of you have applied for a County Councillor grant in 24/25. As I hoped, the main beneficiaries this year have provided for green initiatives and young people in our communities. Grants have included ‘new experience inclusive trips’ for schoolchildren, young musicians and Guides, improved lighting for a theatre group, support for Home Start and Mencap projects, and an all-day free music festival.

Other projects include a solar shade for a village store and an innovative Prom Dress lending scheme hosted by Unit 12.

There is an ongoing County review of this Grant offer for 25/26. In view of the financial state of HCC, it is likely to be stopped or reduced. As I still have some money left in the pot- requests from groups not in this list are welcome!

Deadline 23rd Feb- contact me first to check criteria to avoid disappointment.

Cllr Jackie Porter. tel/text : 07973 696085 email: jackie.porter@hants.gov.uk

Tea For A Cause - November 23rd

The second in our series of "Teas for a Cause" took place in late November. The proceeds of this event, a whopping £760 was shared equally between The Winchester Hospice and Macmillan Nurses. Both charities were very appreciative of this

additional support. Thank you again to all who supported the event whether by making cakes, washing up or just sipping tea and munching a few naughty cakes. Watch this space for a Spring "Tea for a Cause"! Louise

You can still donate if you missed the Tea For A Cause event by using the QR codes here to go to the Just Giving pages Winchester Hospice

Macmillan Nurses �

�

The Dever - January 2024 19

Looking Out For Our Neighbours This Winter As the nights get longer and the air colder, it’s important this winter for us to look out for our friends, family and neighbours. The storms have been challenging for rural communities Danny Chambers at Trinity StreetVet across the Dever area with many of you experiencing power cuts and It can now be scrutinised and debated blocked roads. I’ve been in frequent contact further before a final decision is made. with the power companies and County While activity in Westminster lessened Council to get assurances they are doing over the festive period, I continued everything they can to get power back my work across Winchester and the online and roads cleared after disruptions.

Meon Valley listening to the concerns of Winter is also a tough time for homeless local people and businesses. I met with the people and the charities supporting them River Trust on a walk along the Itchen to like Emmaus and the Winchester Beacon. discuss the problems they’re having with I recently visited Trinity Winchester who Southern Water and sewage dumping. I are working with StreetVet to support the promised them I’d continue my fight in homeless and their pets. They’ve helped parliament to hold them accountable and people off the streets and back on their get our waterways cleaned up. And just feet. I’ve also been really proud of our before Christmas, I paid a visit to our Liberal Democrat councillors. Thanks to posties at Royal Mail Winchester who were their campaigning, the County Council hard at work helping to deliver Christmas. scrapped its plans to cut homelessness We really couldn’t celebrate the festive services and the City Council worked hard season the same way without them. trying to ensure no child in Winchester I enjoyed this Christmas with my had to spend Christmas in a B&B. partner, Emma, and going on many walks In parliament, the big focus has been on along the River Itchen with our two the Assisted Dying Bill. I’ve heard from lovely dogs – Frank and Moose. I hope many of you on this important question and everyone enjoyed their Christmas and I it’s truly been inspiring to see the civility wish everyone a successful New Year. with which this issue has been debated Danny Chambers MP from all sides. It was a difficult decision but danny.chambers.mp@parliament.uk ultimately I voted for the bill to progress.

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The Dever - January 2024

Cercle Français de Winchester An opportunity to enjoy talks in French on a variety of topics with a glass of wine.

Thursdays at St Peters Pastoral Hall, Jewry Street, Winchester at 7.30 pm Program for 2025 Season 6 February Johnny Hallyday - un mythe francais

13 March 10 April 15 May

L’heritage de Napoleon Une visite des gares de Paris La patisserie francaise est plus qu’une fierte national c’est un art

Annual membership £30 or Non‑members evening cost £10

For more information on the group please visit www.cfwinchester.org.uk

Debi Rush & Micheldever Variety Group present

y Play-In-A-Week s g u for Children

B

Malone

aged 8-12

7th to 11th April, 10am to 4pm Show 11th 7pm

Northbrook Hall, Micheldever, SO21 3DF £100 (£25 deposit to book) Contact Peter O’Keefe peter.okeefe@mac.com mob: 07515 339279

The Dever - January 2024 21

City Councillors’ News Winchester City Council has approved a grant of £7,495 to South Wonston Village Hall towards installation of solar panels plus battery storage. The reduced energy bills in the hall should pay for the panels in less than 10 years.

We welcomed Gareth John as the new Director of Legal Services at the City Council. He is an experienced solicitor who worked in commercial practice in Hampshire before joining councils in Surrey. We took him all around our Ward to show him some of the issues that might come across his desk, including drainage problems, planning issues and other regulatory matters.

The latest revision of Winchester’s Local Plan has been sent to the Planning Inspectorate following the public consultation during September. There will be a Public Inquiry during the middle of 2025 when those that have submitted comments will have the opportunity to make further submissions.

This development plan should be fully implemented before the end of 2025.

All three of us joined city council officers and the developers responsible for delivering the new council homes at Hobbs View, Southbrook Cottages, Micheldever for the official opening. Three of the homes were occupied and the other three should have welcomed tenants by now. We had a chance to look around these highly energy efficient homes, which looked really interesting places to live. Meanwhile, work continues to greatly improve some of the neighbouring properties. This work should be finished by March 2025.

We are still waiting for the Government to publish the English Devolution White Paper. This proposed legislation is expected to set out how the Government plans to change local government across the country by amalgamating councils into large unitary bodies with greater responsibilities.

Local government reorganisation could be implemented by 2030.

You can contact your City Councillors at any time or you can catch us at any of the Parish Council meetings. Their next meetings are on: Micheldever PC

Wednesday 8th January

East Stratton Village Hall.

Wonston PC

Wednesday 15th January

Victoria Hall, Sutton Scotney.

South Wonston PC

Monday 13th January

South Wonston Pavilion.

All meetings start at 7.30pm. (Micheldever PC meets at 7.45pm this month)

Stephen

Cllr Stephen Godfrey 119 Downs Road South Wonston SO21 3EH Tel: 01962 884477 sgodfrey@winchester.gov.uk

22

Caroline

Cllr Caroline Horrill Wheatlands Woodman Lane Sparsholt SO21 3SH Tel: 01962 776844 chorrill@winchester.gov.uk

Patrick

Cllr Patrick Cunningham The Corner House North Drive Littleton SO22 6QA Tel: 07866 367897 pcunningham@winchester.gov.uk The Dever - January 2024

EV Myths Hybrids are better than EVs Hybrid emissions are 3.5 times higher than official figures

R

E

EV E M N YT H S!

the average emission figures of their petrol models. Hybrids emit both more emissions and use more fuel than previously stated.

The EU’s real-world driving data shows that when it comes to emissions and fuel efficiency, many hybrids aren’t significantly different from regular petrol cars.

M O

While hybrids (vehicles with a combustion engine and a drive battery) reassure EV range anxiety, their range on battery power alone is typically between 30 to 70 miles, after which the combustion engine takes over. With a plug-in hybrid, regularly charged and travelling a small mileage, it’s possible to drive on electricity alone almost indefinitely. But hybrids aren’t as good for the environment as we’ve been led to believe.

Data from the European Union Environment Agency (EUEA) in April 2024 showed that in real-world driving the average CO2 emission figures for hybrids were 100g/km or 3.5 times higher than their quoted Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedures (WLTP) figures.

Toyota’s plug-in hybrid emissions were four times the claimed WLTP figure and close to

Extract from The Little Book of EV Myths available as free download from www.faircharge.co.uk/ little-book-of-ev-myths

The Little Book of EV Myths

EV batteries don’t last? EVs pollute more than ICE cars?

Hydrogen will displace EVs? EVs cost more to maintain?

And much more nonsense...

Micheldever Community Library Northbrook Hall

Community Library Assisted Support Thursdays 2.00 - 3.00pm

Access to the community library is also available whenever the Northbrook Hall is open. Books can be borrowed and returned at any time.

This community library is a free village provision open to all.

I would be grateful if returned books could be left on the table for me to return to the shelves on the assisted opening day.

DONATIONS OF PAPERBACK FICTION BOOKS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME. Dawn Snow: Community Library Assisted Support Volunteer.

The Dever - January 2024 23

Forthcoming Events 2025 February 5th 12.30pm Micheldever Village Lunch - Northbrook Hall 5th 7.30pm Micheldever Parish Council - Northbrook Hall 8th 8.00pm Micheldever Wine Circle - Northbrook Hall 11th 7.30pm Disasters that made Hampshire - The Warren Centre March 5th 12.30pm Micheldever Village Lunch - Northbrook Hall 5th 7.30pm Micheldever Parish Council - East Stratton Village Hall 21st 8.00pm Micheldever Wine Circle - Northbrook Hall April 2nd 12.30pm Micheldever Village Lunch - Northbrook Hall 2nd 7.30pm Micheldever Parish Council - East Stratton Village Hall 7th 10.00am Play In A Week starts - Northbrook Hall 11th 7.00pm Play In A Week Show - Northbrook Hall 16th 7.30pm Parish Assembly, Micheldever Parish Council - venue Northbrook Hall May 7th 12.30pm Micheldever Village Lunch - Northbrook Hall 7th 7.45pm Micheldever Parish Council - East Stratton Village Hall 11th 200 years of Train Travel event - The Warren Centre (see advertisment page 2 for full details) 16th 8.00pm Micheldever Wine Circle - Northbrook Hall June 4th 12.30pm Micheldever Village Lunch - Northbrook Hall 4th 7.30pm Micheldever Parish Council - East Stratton Village Hall July 2nd 12.30pm Micheldever Village Lunch - Northbrook Hall 2nd 7.30pm Micheldever Parish Council - Northbrook Hall 5th 7.30pm Micheldever Wine Circle summer party - venue tbc September 3rd 12.30pm Micheldever Village Lunch - Northbrook Hall 3rd 7.30pm Micheldever Parish Council - East Stratton Village Hall October 1st 12.30pm Micheldever Village Lunch - Northbrook Hall 10th 8.00pm Micheldever Wine Circle - Northbrook Hall November 1st 12.30pm Micheldever Village Lunch - Northbrook Hall

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The Dever - January 2024

December 10th 7.30pm Micheldever Wine Circle, Christmas Party - Northbrook Hall 17th 12.30pm Micheldever Village Lunch - Northbrook Hall

Hall Booking East Stratton Hall Northbrook Hall The Warren Centre

01962 774517, 07802 755132, booknorthbrookhall@gmail.com visit www.thewarrencentre.co.uk/hire

Micheldever Village Shop - Opening Times 9

7 8

5 2 9

44 5 9

Sudoku38 (Medium) 4

Daily Sudoku: Tue 15-Mar-2022

9 3

6

1 2

6 1 8 9 4

Daily Sudoku: Fri 15-Nov-2024

6 5 4 7 6 3 5 2 9 4 8 9 3 1 1 8 7

7 1 9 3 6 8 5 4 2hard

Daily Sudoku: Tue 15-Mar-2022

Daily Sudoku: Fri 15-Nov-2024

medium

7

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd Sudoku 2024. AllLtd rights reserved. (c) Daily 2022.

All rights reserved.

7 3 8 5 1 9 2 4 December Solution 4 9 6 7 8 2 1 3 1 6 2 8 3 5 9 7 2 5 1 4 3 6 8 9 3 4 5 2 7 9 1 8 8 1 4 6 2 5 9 7 8 9 7 6 1 4 2 3 3 6 9 1 4 7 5 8 4 5 3 1 8 6 7 2 5 9 7 7 2 6 85 92 33 64 11 6 2 8 8 3 1 29 74 17 46 55 9 6 4 3 5 4 37 65 82 78 29 1 5 2 2 7 8 94 59 41 33 66

9 4

9 2 5 3 7 5

9 2 7 6 2 8

1 5 6

8 3 2 9 1

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2024. All rights reserved.

2 5 1 4 1 5 6 2 4 9 6 8 7 7 98 36 13 6 5 92 85 9 4 16 4

6 9.00am - 6.30pm, 510.00am - 3.00pm

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd (c) 2024.

AllSudoku rights reserved.

Daily Ltd 2022. All rights reserved.

8 - 5Saturday Monday 1 Sunday

Daily Sudoku: Wed 11-Dec-2024

http://www.dailysudoku.com/ http://www.dailysudoku.com/

The Dever - January 2024 25

January Diary 1st 10.00am 8th 7.30pm 23rd 7.15pm 24th 7.15pm 25th 2.00pm 25th 7.15pm 26th 2.00pm

New Years Day Breakfast - East Stratton Village Hall Micheldever Parish Council - East Stratton Village Hall MVG, Rapunzel a Pantomime - Northbrook Hall MVG, Rapunzel a Pantomime - Northbrook Hall MVG, Rapunzel a Pantomime - Northbrook Hall MVG, Rapunzel a Pantomime - Northbrook Hall MVG, Rapunzel a Pantomime - Northbrook Hall

Mobile Post Office

Wednesday morning 9.30 – 10.30 Lord Rank Car Park (please note: times may vary slightly)

Regular Dates and Times – Weekly SUNDAYS TUESDAYS

Church Services Details on centre pages 8.00 - 9.00 pm Circuit Training by Toppe from T Fit Training, Micheldever School Hall. contact Jane 07919 018877 WEDNESDAYS 8.45 - 9.45am Body Control Pilates, Northbrook Hall, Micheldever contact Emily Bray emsbray@hotmail.com 9.30–10.30am Mobile Post Office, Lord Rank Car Park, Micheldever 6.15 - 7.15pm Keep Moving Pilates, Beginners/Improvers 7.30 - 8.30pm Intermediates The Warren Centre, Micheldever Station THURSDAYS 9.30 - 10.30am Keep Moving Pilates, Beginners/Improvers The Warren Centre, Micheldever Station

contact: Chloe Nicholson chloe@keepmovingpilates.co.uk 2.00 - 3.00pm Community Library, Northbrook Hall, Micheldever 6.30 - 7.30pm Lets Do Pilates, Northbrook Hall, Micheldever

contact: lucy@letsdopilates.com 8.00 - 10.00pm Dever Singers Rehearsal–Micheldever or South Wonston churches. contact, ruthironton@gmail.com FRIDAYS 4.00pm Petanque at The Warren Centre.

26

The Dever - January 2024

by CHRIS EGAN

East Stratton Village Hall Wednesday 1 January 2025

10am - 12 noon Full English - £10 Continental - £5 Tea, coffee or fruit juice included Add a glass of fizz for £3

Families welcome

Booking is essential, by Friday 27th December Please phone 01962 774516