The Dever March 2021

The

Dever

March 2021

80p

The Journal of the Upper Dever Valley

Big Sky at Sunset over Micheldever

photograph by Tina Georgiadis

First-Sunday-in-the-Month Walk (Lockdown style)

Spring is really on its way now. In January I recorded all the wild plants I found in flower during my walk.

This month I’m on the lookout for trees coming into leaf.

I plan to Let me know how many you see during your walk on Leaves leave from Sunday 7th March 2021 illustrated: Warren Car Park at Holly 10.30am to walk for Sycamore about 2 Rowan hours.

Hawthorn Will all the trees be silhouettes against the sky?

Elder Hazel Oak

Ivy Alder Dogwood Beech

The

Dever

Contents View from the Vicarage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Audrey Alice Allen 1928-2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 News from Woodmancote & Popham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 New Website Launching in March 2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Parish Council News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Micheldever Village Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Thank You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 The Questor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Fish & Tomato Curry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Solar Farms are Not a Choice but a Necessity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 In The Garden – March . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Church Services ~ March 2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Bridleway Improvement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Micheldever School News for March . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Micheldever WI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Household Hints. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 From Our MP, Steve Brine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Micheldever & Stratton Pre School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 City Councillors’ News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Citizens Advice Winchester District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Jackie’s County Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Memorial Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Forthcoming Events 2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Sudoku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 March Diary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Post Alpha . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 The Dever - March 2021 3

Upper Dever Contacts Priest in Charge

Ordinand Benefice Cordinator

Rev'd John Rennie

Dr Robert Rees Clare Fancourt

01962 760827

07590 909811 coordinator.upperdever@hotmail.com

Church Wardens

St. Mary the Virgin Micheldever Jan Mason 01962 774362 Juliet Pattinson 01962 774399 Holy Trinity Wonston Sarah Hobhouse 01962 760003 St Mary & St Michael Stoke Charity Ruth Guy 01962 760259

All Saints’ East Stratton Chris Hilling Ed Beckwith St James’ Hunton Campbell Dye St James’ Woodmancote Linda Albin Mary Wallis

Websites

01962 795134 01962 774918 01962 760001 01256 397616 01256 397271

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

The Dever Annual Subscription January to December for 12 issues: £8.00; £14.00 by post.

Articles for April issue to be received by the editor before 15th March please.

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

Treasurer: Paul Knight 01962 774683

Printing: Richard Vellacott and team

Subscriptions Enquiries & Distribution

Micheldever Maureen Allan Micheldever Station Andy Adams East of railway line Ann Hawkins West of railway line

07702 879865 01962 774363 01962 723347

01962 774516 01256 397429 07548 955374

Dever Advertiser Sales: email:

Editor: 4

East Stratton Olly Bramley Woodmancote Liz Hawkesworth External/Postal Caroline Knight

Amanda Forsey deveradvertiser@hotmail.com 01962 774115 07500 334393 Roger Forsey The Dever - March 2021

View from the Vicarage Vaccination Diplomacy The speed at which scientists have developed effective vaccines in the past year and now the speed at which vaccinations are being rolled out across the UK has been impressive. The most vulnerable have been vaccinated first and as I write the numbers of new cases is falling rapidly. We are so thankful for this secure way out of this year long pandemic.

Many parts of Europe lag behind the UK in the delivery of vaccines. Parts of the developing world have no prospect of receiving vaccines in large enough numbers for several months–maybe a year. This inequality has been obvious but who is prepared to stand up and object.

Inequality is always a difficult subject especially when it affects ourselves and what we think we should have easy access to.

The Black Lives Matter campaign this past year has highlighted so many longstanding inequalities in society.

Lack of educational opportunities, lack of access to well paid employment, even the treatment that those of colour receive in hospitals or is meted out to them by the police has been thrown into the arena. We all know we haven’t come out of this well. For too long those of colour have been expected to take second place. Now this inequality is being

thrown into the public arena again with the West helping themselves first to the vaccinations and offering the left overs to those who cannot afford to buy them.

How would Jesus have reacted if He were still here on earth amongst us?

There was no place in Jesus’ ministry for favouritism. When the disciples who were closest to Jesus, that is James and John, asked for a place at his right and left hand in heaven, Jesus rebuked them.

When the Jews wanted prime place in his kingdom because of their long standing status as a privileged and favoured nation, Jesus rebuked them.

In Jesus’ eyes there was no advantage in colour, status, education or gender.

He loves us all and came to bring hope and salvation for us all.

His way would be to have an even distribution of access to every thing that society needs in the 21st century.

Police protection, high quality education, social mobility – the list is long but we must strive to achieve it.

As for March 2021–we need to push for governments to support the people of those countries who don’t have a voice nor indeed the money to buy the expensive vaccines.

John Rennie 24.02 2021

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Audrey Alice Allen 1928-2021 Audrey Allen lived in the Parish of Popham and Woodmancote for over 65 years. For many of those years she played a key part in the local community and, in particular, supporting St James Church, first as Treasurer and then as Church Warden.

Audrey Holdaway was born in Odiham near Basingstoke in 1928. She grew up and went to school in Basingstoke. The house in Deep Lane where she lived with her family still stands today. When she left school, she started training as an accountant and joined a firm in Basingstoke. She met her husband-tobe, Tony Allen, at a dance in the Town Hall in Basingstoke. Tony was the only son of Peter and Coby Allen who farmed at West Farm, Popham. Tony was a keen Motorcyclist and stalwart of the Basingstoke Motorcycle Club. For many who knew Audrey well, it might seem remarkable that in their courtship she rode pillion on his motorbike. They married in Basingstoke in 1950 and in the early years of their marriage they lived in a caravan whilst they waited for their first house, Westway, to be built at the farm.

Tony and Audrey ran the farm together with his parents and later were joined on the farm by their sons Christopher and Nicholas. At that time West Farm was a traditional mixed farm and Audrey had plenty to do; rearing calves, collecting and washing eggs and putting her accountancy training to good use in keeping the farm books.

In the late 1960’s St James Church was threatened with closure and could only be kept open on condition that sufficient 6

funds could be raised to support it.

Audrey and Joan Smith of Vicarage Farm, Popham threw themselves into the challenge of keeping their Church open. They rallied local support and organised numerous fund-raising events.

Audrey became treasurer in 1970 and, together with Joan, steered the fundraising committee into ever more ambitious events. When Bill Welling arrived at Woodmancote, this led to legendary barn dances and barbeques and hundreds of people came great distances to enjoy both the dancing and the food.

In 1989 Audrey also took on the role of Secretary to the Basingstoke and District Agriculture Society. In her time, she organised the Society Dinners, the annual Ploughing Match and numerous committees. No matter how awful the weather was, Audrey was always seen marching around in her trademark black patent shoes rather than wellington boots.

When her beloved husband Tony died in 2006, Audrey devoted even more of her time and energy to being Church Warden at St James and determinedly continued the traditions that he had started. Of local renown was the Rogation Sunday The Dever - March 2021

walk for which Audrey, always a keen and skilled baker, produced quantities of cakes, scones and meringues enough even to satisfy the hungriest of walkers.

The Harvest Supper also continued, supported by Brian Wallis another friend and neighbour in the parish.

The harvest report, given by a local farmer at Harvest Festival has become another tradition at St James Church.

Audrey suffered from problems with arthritis, but would proudly boast, to her doctors, that she had five new hips.

Sadly, in her later years she contracted

cancer and endured a difficult range of treatments. She always took pride in her home and it was always her wish that she should end her days in her own house. On the 28th January she passed away quietly at Bradley Farm with members of her family close by.

Never a great traveller or taker of holidays, she only ventured abroad two or three times in her life and hated every minute. The Parish of Popham and Woodmancote was her entire world and she loved and cherished it, and served it tirelessly.

News from Woodmancote & Popham We were all very sad in Woodmancote last month, as our dear Audrey Allen, who worshipped at St James’ Church for over 60 years, passed away. Audrey was such an inspirational woman and part of the very fabric of St James’ Church, being responsible for it for such a long number of years including two long stints as PCC Treasurer and approaching 25 years as Church Warden, from which she retired only three years ago.

Audrey, together with her husband Tony, were involved with practically every fund raising event for St James over that period, including the Bonfire Nights in Popham that lasted for many years, the very popular Barn Dances at Woodmancote and most memorably of all, the Rogation Walk tea that was held every year in her garden! We would like to send our condolences to all the family and to say

that Audrey leaves a big hole in the community of Woodmancote and Popham.

On St Valentine’s Day we enjoyed an evening Zoom Service led by Rob Rees. It was lovely to see lots of familiar faces and sing some traditional hymns, albeit at home!

At the time of writing this, I have no idea when lockdown will end or when normal Services at Church will resume.

I find it hard to comprehend that March will mark a whole year of the Virus affecting all our lives. Once again, I am reminded to not take anything in life for granted and to live to the full every moment as far as possible.

Jane

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New Website Launching in March 2021 Micheldever is launching a new website, to cover and link to information and sites covering all the parts of the parish. The existing site was built and populated with plenty of good local history and information, but the technical administration of the site was getting out of date and we wanted to take the opportunity to launch a site that better encompasses Micheldever village and it’s environs. Plenty of the existing information is being transferred, new information is going on and local groups are being contacted for updates.

Check out the new site here: www.micheldevervillages.org Our new web editors are in place and can be contacted on: micheldevervillages123@gmail.com

Parish Council News Were you aware that the Parish Council produces a Footpaths and Bridleways booklet?

This is normally for sale at meetings and in community facilities around the village. A charge of £1 is usually made for the booklet to help cover the printing costs. As residents are currently making good use of the footpaths the Parish Council would like to make the booklet more easily available to ensure that the maximum benefit is gained but that local landowners are also not inconvenienced by walkers or riders straying from the paths.

If you would like to receive a copy of the booklet please contact Jocelyn, the Clerk, (as below) and one will be posted 8

to you. In lieu of the £1 charge we would request that residents carry out a little community work such as collecting some litter or reporting footpath issues to Hampshire County Council.

Lord Rank Play Area As noted previously, the Parish Council are reviewing the condition of the current play equipment at the Lord Rank and establishing what can be done to improve the area in the coming year. It is anticipated that this will be the Parish Council’s major project for 2021 and the views of residents would be very welcome.

The Parish Council can be contacted via Jocelyn, the Clerk, micheldeverpc@hotmail.co.uk or 01794 368951 The Dever - March 2021

Micheldever Village Store In previous reports I have alluded to, but not declared, what the status is of the shop. We, the MCES, are now able to make the situation clear. Our starting point was to create a Community Hub consisting of a pub and a village shop.

The pub has been delivered and, despite the impact of Covid, Paula and Andy are developing a really good village pub. During this time we have been developing the plans for the shop and looking in more detail at the options for its location. We are now clear that co-locating the shop on the pub site is not a viable proposition. Wherever on the site the shop is positioned it would be a poor compromise, with deliveries being made across the beer garden, shoppers traipsing between the garden tables, plus the impact on the already stretched parking arrangements.

Over the last few months we have been exploring other options.

Our first option was to look at acquiring more land next to the pub site but no land is available.

We then looked afresh at the shop premises on the the old shop site in Church Street. Despite our best efforts to make this a serious option, it proved to be unworkable as the retail space is too small for a viable operation as well as

there being parking and access issues.

We briefly looked at locating the shop on the land at the side of Northbrook Hall but were aware that WCC planners had already expressed concerns about a permanent option there.

It was suggested that there might be a possibility on the land owned by WCC in front of Waterloo Cottages. WCC has advised us that they would not permit such a development for a variety of reasons and, in any event, MCES consider the location a very poor option.

The site that we have identified, therefore, as being the best option by far is the Lord Rank Playing Field. The concept would be either a stand alone entity next to the pavilion or a combined structure of a revamped pavilion and shop. This would also involve a proper approach from the carpark to the playground. The land is owned by the Parish Council but any development would necessitate the approval of the Rank Foundation. It is now in the hands of the Parish Council as to whether or not they can and should pursue this option further. CH

Thank You From the Dever Treasurer, Paul Knight.

I would like to thank our distributors for collecting the magazine subscriptions and passing them either to Maureen Allan or myself. It’s not always easy knocking on doors and chasing up subs, so I am very grateful.

PK The Dever - March 2021 9

The Questor The Wild Gospel..… …..Tough Times Last month we left Paul and Barnabas on the dangerous mountain road to Antioch in the region of Galatia. Antioch was a lively and volatile city with a mixed population. Founded by the Greeks around 300BC it had become a Roman colony in 6BC. Jews often moved into new cities in order to get in at the start. So the population was made up of Greeks, Jews and Romans as well as native Galatians.

On the first Sabbath day after they arrived, they went to the synagogue where they were invited to speak. Paul gave them a sermon which set out how Jesus fitted into the story of the Jews. This sermon is reported in full in Acts 13 vs 16-41 – the only one ever recorded. This aroused great interest and the following week almost the whole city turned out to hear Paul speak.

When the Jews saw the crowds they were envious and tried to discredit Paul. But he dismissed their arguments and turned to the non-Jews who were overjoyed to receive the Message.

The Jews were furious and stirred up the civic leaders who expelled Paul and Barnabas from the city.

Next they went to the ancient city of Iconium where, once again, the Jews stirred up trouble and incited the mob to stone them. Paul and Barnabas got wind of the plot and so moved on to Lystra.

While they were in Lystra, they encountered a man who had been crippled from birth. Paul looked him in the eye and told him to stand up – and he did and started jumping around! The people of Lystra were amazed and immediately decided that Paul and Barnabas were gods. They said that Barnabas was Zeus 10

and Paul was Hermes. There was a local legend that these two gods had once come to their region in disguise and no-one other than an old peasant couple would give them hospitality. So they wiped out everyone except the old couple.

The current population wasn’t going to let that happen again so their priests set about arranging a sacrifice, bringing bulls to the temple of Zeus. Paul and Barnabas were beside themselves and tried to explain that they were just ordinary human beings like everyone else and that it was the power of Jesus that had brought about the healing. But the people carried on with the sacrifice anyway.

Then the inevitable happened: a bunch of Jews showed up and told the crowds that Paul and Barnabas were imposters.

So they turned on them and they

stoned Paul. Believing him to be dead, they dragged his body outside the city walls and dumped him there. A group of followers gathered around him and were amazed to find that he was still alive. So they took him back into the city and cleaned him up. The next day, he and Barnabas set out for Derbe.

They had a much less stressful time there The Dever - March 2021

and a lot of people became believers. After spending some time there, they retraced their steps back to Perga, strengthening the groups of believers in each place as they went. They prayed and fasted with the people and chose leaders from among them and left them in their care.

They spent time preaching in Perga and Attalia and then sailed back to Antioch where they had started from. When they arrived, the people of the church there were eager to hear how things had gone

on their travels. Paul and Barnabas gave them a full account of all that God had done through them – especially how he had opened the door to the non-Jews.

The people were overjoyed and Paul and Barnabas stayed with them a long time.

Such courage and persistence to keep going in spite of the opposition and violence they experienced. But as Paul was to write later “If God is for us, who can be against us” Next month – Managing Growth

Fish & Tomato Curry For 3 - 4 Ingredients 2 tbsp veg or sunflower oil 1 onion sliced 2 teasp ground ginger 3 garlic cloves, grated or crushed 1 tbsp medium curry powder or paste 1 cinnamon stick (optional) 300ml tomato passata 100ml coconut milk 1/2 teasp sugar 500g white fish fillets, skinned Juice 1 lime Serve with basmati rice Method 1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a low-medium heat. Add the onion & cook, stirring for 8 - 10 mins till soft.

2. Add the ginger, garlic, curry powder or paste & cinnamon if using and cook for 1 - 2 mins. Add the passata, coconut milk, sugar & some salt & pepper. Stir then simmer, stirring occasionally for about 10 mins till rich & well blended.

The sauce can be made well ahead & the fish added just before serving.

3. Meanwhile remove any small bones in the fish fillets then cut into large pieces about 4cm square. Add to the sauce, bring back to a gentle simmer & cook for 4 - 6 mins till the fish is just cooked through, stirring gently a couple of times ( try not to break up the fish.

It will continue to cook off the heat.

4. Stir in the lime juice, taste & season. Serve with the rice.

Tricia Patston

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Solar Farms are Not a Choice but a Necessity David Jones, WinACC trustee The Godsfield solar farm application outside Alresford, Hampshire, is a current example of how the transition to a new economy stirs passions.

No one wants the nuclear power station / wind farm / solar array where they live, but if we want to preserve our energy-intensive lifestyle, something somewhere has to give.

Ironically, the Godsfield site is as good as a rural solar array can be – deeply secluded yet accessible to the grid; because it converts an arable field to grassland it delivers a substantial biodiversity benefit, and the proposers can be credited with setting aside a substantial area for native planting to screen the site from a footpath.

Surely there is no disagreement that we will need more energy to power our cars and homes in future and that this should come from renewable electricity rather than oil, petrol and gas – those old, twentieth-century technologies which made us comfortable at the expense of future generations? The boffins advising government policy through the 6th Carbon Budget predict a more than doubling of electricity needs to 2050.

While we hope for “killer app” carbon capture technology to save us – perhaps with a fair wind this will deliver by the 2040s – in the meantime we need to find huge quantities of clean, cheap renewable electricity.

The scientists and the economists agree: wind and solar are now the cheapest energy on the planet.

The problem is where to put it.

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Offshore wind can provide a decent chunk of the UK’s future energy needs, but not all. Onshore wind is cheapest of all, but a particularly difficult sell to local communities. Which leaves solar.

Cheap, increasingly efficient, silent. Best sited on roofs but a 2019 study calculated potential rooftop contribution as no more than 2.1% of existing 2016 electricity needs for the UK. So whilst rooftops are useful, they are not the solution we need.

Brownfield sites would help if it weren’t for the fact they are also in demand for housing and too small to be cost effective.

If it comes down to a choice between a solar farm and housing for a brownfield site, which would be the priority?

The 6th Carbon Budget couldn’t be clearer in their modelling of the Balanced Net Zero Pathway: “Solar generation increases from 10 TWh in 2019 to 60 TWh in 2035 and 85 TWh in 2050. On average, 3 GW per year will need to be installed to reach this level of solar generation”.

3GW requires around 6,000 hectares across the UK, that’s 10% of the total land area of Winchester District, every year of the next 30 years to 2050, most of this in the sunnier south and east of England.

Godsfield is 22 hectares. This appears to be just a drop in the ocean, but a very important one. We will need to find an awful lot more sites like this – and the sooner the better for our social well-being.

The Dever - March 2021

Our WinACC Godsfield Solar Farm webpage looks at the application in detail https://www.winacc.org.uk/

what-we-do/campaigns-2/solarfarm-application-godsfield-lane

In The Garden – March The predicted Beast from the East is roaring outside so what better way of spending a morning than doing a little research for my gardening article.

The crocuses are up, together with the primroses, and the snowdrops create glorious white drifts under the hedges. Hyacinths too are emerging along with a few tulips.

The fieldfare is still guarding his now rotten apples but they are nearly gone and he will have to soon move on.

The blackbirds and song thrush are beginning to sing in the mornings, and the larks are in full throttle over the fields behind us, such an encouraging time.

Repurposing plastic :– something I read this weekend. For used compost bags, use to grow potatoes in and line terracotta pots to prevent them drying out too quickly.

Plastic plant pots can be recycled at some garden centres but not at the council tip. Replace them with biodegradable pots made from bamboo or coir. You can make your own pots from newspaper, which can be planted direct into the garden with sweet peas etc and will slowly decompose.

If you have comfrey growing in your garden, or nettles nearby, pick and soak in a tub of water for a few weeks; it makes a good liquid fertiliser.

Jobs for March (taken from the RHS website) Ή Plant shallots, onion sets and early potatoes Ή Plant summer flowering bulbs Ή Lift and divide overgrown clumps of perennials, pot up surplus for our plant sale! Ή Continue to hoe and mulch weeds to keep them under control Ή Cut back dogwood (cornus) and salix (willow) Ή Sow sweet peas outside and plant out autumn sown ones Ή Pot up dahlia tubers you have saved and keep in a warm light place.

Once a shoot of approx. 3 to 4 inches appears cut off carefully, dip in hormone rooting powder and push into a pot of cuttings compost Ή Continue to deadhead winter flowering pansies, also narcissus but not the leaves. Ή Top dress spring flowering alpines with grit or gravel to help prevent stem rot; it also helps to make them more attractive. Ή Top up pots and containers with John Innes compost – adding grit to the top will help deter slugs.

By the time you read this the weather should have warmed up and we can all spend more time in our gardens. CK

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Church Services ~ March 2021 7th March (via Zoom)

Rev’d James Whymark Why did Jesus have to die - How does his death reconcile us to God and to our enemies and neighbours?

14th March (via Zoom) - Mothering Sunday

Ruth Guy Why did Jesus have to die - How does a death 2,000 years ago bring hope to our world today? How can we have hope of a life beyond the grave?

21st March (via YouTube)

James Gray Why did Jesus have to die - What does it mean to be forgiven for things we are ashamed to admit?

28th March (via YouTube) - Palm Sunday

Peter Russell Why did Jesus have to die - Jesus humbled himself to ride on a donkey a week before his death. Is there a place for humility in our world today?

For details of how to access online services, please contact the Parish Coordinator, email: coordinator.upperdever@hotmail.com.

Bridleway Improvement An update regarding bridleway ‘3A’ – in particular the section of it that runs along the edge of the steep bank above Sloe Lane.

Following some very helpful discussions with the farm manager, firm plans have now been agreed to restore the bridleway to the correct width and condition, and the hope is that weather permitting, i.e. once the ground has dried sufficiently, the work will be carried out towards the end of March.

This will involve some light ploughing and drilling, to restore the line of the path and to then reseed it with a suitable mix of grass seed. While this work takes place, and then over the next few weeks while the grass becomes established again, it will be very helpful if the footfall along this section of the path is 14

minimised. As a right-of-way, the path will not be formally closed, but we plan to put up signage at each end explaining the work and requesting that the use of the path is avoided as far as reasonably possible during these few weeks.

By early summer we therefore expect to be able to fully access this bridleway again, together with the many others across the parish that we are fortunate to enjoy. For any queries, please contact Olly Bramley (as parish council contact) or Lynsey Sweeney / James Alpe (footpaths / RoWvers group).

The Dever - March 2021

Micheldever School News for March As all of us have navigated our way through the latest national lockdown, the children at Micheldever Primary School have continued to excel and exceed all expectations. It has certainly been a challenge for children who are adapting once more to home learning, and for some children who continue to come to school, adapting to smaller class sizes and different routines. However, we have been impressed by all of the children’s abilities to continue and persevere in the trying circumstances.

A big thank you must go out to the dedicated and hard-working teachers, office staff, learning support assistants, cleaning staff, catering staff and everyone else at the school who are helping to provide a high quality provision to the children in school and at home. Their commitment to provide an excellent education for all the children in their class has been remarkable. They have adapted to many new technologies and systems to ensure that lessons they had planned to be delivered in the classroom could be adapted to remote learning, all whilst teaching the children at school as well. My gratitude to them is heartfelt.

What has been superb is to see the high quality of work that is being done at home by the children. Via our learning platform we have seen videos, photos, written work and pictures to show the range of work that children are completing at home. We know that parents (and childcare support bubbles) are working hard to ensure their learning needs are met, along with juggling work

and normal life. Our thanks also goes out to the excellent work that you are doing at home as well to support the learning that we are giving the children.

As a school we have been looking for innovative and creative ways to ensure all our children continue to be excited by their learning. The term, a real highlight for us was class lockdown parties where both children at home and children in school came together via our learning platform to celebrate their learning and to be together. Our older children had upcycled some of their clothes to turn them into party wear and our younger children enjoyed making their learning about chocolate and toys come to life! We are, at the time of writing, planning how we will celebrate World Book Day together in a similar way.

Again, at the time of writing, we eagerly await any further update about what school may look like after that but want to reassure you that whatever the announcements we will endeavour to provide the very best that we can for the children at Micheldever School.

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

The Dever - March 2021 15

Micheldever WI So far for the members of Micheldever WI, and all of the other WIs in the UK, it has been a year of voting. Last month I mentioned the first two votes of the year, the results of both have now been submitted to the Hampshire Federation and gone forward to the NFWI (National Federation of WIs) for collation together with the votes from all around the country. The vote on the amendments to the WI Constitution and other documents which will allow for virtual meetings and voting in the future was accepted by the membership. Now there will be more meetings so that this can become part of our legal documentation.

From Hampshire WIs, the vote on the 2021/22 resolution was a resounding selection of the proposal to campaign on raising awareness of the signs of ovarian cancer. Again, these results have been submitted to NFWI and at the time of writing the overall result has not been published. Whichever option, or possibly two, are chosen there will be another vote to ratify the campaign.

Having successfully completed these votes members now have the opportunity to select which nominees will be elected as members of the Board of the NFWI. Nominations are welcome from any WI in the UK and elections are held every two years. This year there are seventeen candidates for twelve places and voting ends on the 31 March.

At Federation level, many events and meetings are now being held through virtual platforms such as Zoom and Teams. Unfortunately, this way is not fully inclusive of all members and the WI team of Advisers are working hard to help less IT confident members, but unfortunately 16

their hands are tied where computers and iPad are not available and in areas of unreliable broadband.

Many WIs have joined with other organisations to take part in February’s ‘Show the Love’ Campaign to raise awareness of the effects of climate change. Green hearts are the symbol of this campaign which is organised by The Climate Coalition. Many WIs make these hearts for distribution in their areas and virtual talks and meetings are organised together with sending letters to MPs urging them to take urgent action to protect our natural environment before it is too late.

The WI is also renewing their call for people to register as stem cell donors. At present only 2% of people in the UK are registered but every 20 minutes someone is diagnosed with blood cancer. A stem cell transfusion from a matching donor can save lives but unfortunately a lack of donors mean that many matches are not made. The WI ‘Make a Match’ Campaign is ongoing. It is easy to register by visiting either of these websites– dkms.org.uk/thewi or anthonynolan. org/WI. Please do not hesitate if you feel that you are able to help.

A new quiz from another Winchester WI has just popped into my mailbox so I thought I would share it with you – here are the questions: Characters and Places from Myths and Legend 1. A measurement of precious metals 2. Goddess of the Moon 4 The Dever - March 2021

3. The Thames at Oxford 4. Found in the middle of Piccadilly Circus 5. The Princess in the ballet ‘Sleeping Beauty’ 6. ‘…in blue jeans’ 7. Rodney Trotter’s wife in ‘Only Fools and Horses’ 8. Mickey Mouse’s Dog 9. Character played by Lida Kudrow in ‘Friends’ 10. 5th planet from the sun 11. Christian name of Monsieur Poirot 12. 1957 Paul Anka hit 13. King of the Gods on Mount Olympus 14. Breed of British piebald sheep 15. Quicksilver 16. A style of Afro-Caribbean music 17. Personification of the Earth 18. A European Capital city 19. In Holst’s Planets Suite, he is described as the bringer of old age 20. The love interest of Sue Townsend’s Adrian Mole 21. Ayres Rock aka

22. In Greek tradition this has the head of a woman, the haunches of a lion and the wings of a bird 23. You could say a nice set of pipes 24. The only ‘Lady’ in Thunderbirds 25. A plant renowned for its beautiful scent, but with a reputation for being tricky to grow 26. A golden touch 27. Where the master locks away the liquor 28. Music Hall singers Tilley and Victoria 29. A small family car from Ford, manufactured between 1983 and 1993 30. A Dutch football team, or a household cleaner I will give you the answers next month – good luck!

Until next time – take care Gina Gina Ireland, Secretary, Micheldever WI Email: micheldeversec@hampshirewi.org.uk Phone: 0748 6397 514

Household Hints.

To clean the soot off your woodburner’s glass, make a paste of ash and water and rub on. The glass should look a lot cleaner.

To peel a label off a glass jar, rub it with cooking oil and leave for 30 minutes, it should just wipe off but if

its stubborn, give it a blast with your hairdryer to help soften the glue. ( I personally use Lakeland’s sticky stuff remover, but am going to give the above a try).

CK

The Dever - March 2021 17

From Our MP, Steve Brine First up this month and the Dever Valley came to me recently as my new series of Visit Westminster came to life.

The wonderful Dever Society had a behind the scenes tour at the House of Commons and got to put any questions they like to me in a Q&A session.

Thank you to everyone – including Cllr Patrick Cunningham our Mayor– who joined the call and your kind comments since. If you are part of a local organisation it could be your turn next; we’d love to have you.

Please visit www.stevebrine.com/visitwestminster-virtually for more details.

Last month in The Dever I was setting out my case for the re-opening of our society and economy that moves in lockstep with the incredible success of our covid-19 vaccination programme. I hold 100% to that view and predict the public, let alone Parliament, will grow increasingly furious if one doesn’t follow the other.

That is why I continue to push the case for schools to fully re-open on 8th March given the untold damage being done to the forgotten victims of this pandemic – our young people.

As I said to the Prime Minister in the House of Commons last month, I am genuinely shocked by the sense of desperation and concern parents in the constituency are communicating to me given what they are seeing from their 18

The recent Visit Westminster virtual event with the Dever Society

children. We have a vaccine which is being rolled out at pace – and while it will face challenges as new strains emerge – we have to accept a balance of risks as we always have. I have called for teachers and school (as well as early years) staff to be vaccinated as soon as possible because, as I see it, if schools really are our national priority we need to start acting like it.

And finally, continuing my determination to remind constituents that Parliament is doing other things at this time alongside managing the crisis, you may be interested in some of the other strands of my work at this time.

Through my ongoing work as the Chair of the all-party group for childcare and early education, I am stepping up efforts to make the case for the early years sector, too often overlooked, while a genuine lifeline for many working parents. My page at www.stevebrine.com/earlyyears has lots on this and links to much more.

Equally, I am picking up again my work on local transport services as commuters prepare (someday) to return to the railways. The issue of ‘part-time’ season tickets hasn’t gone away – in fact it just got even more important – so watch this space from Government / The Dever - March 2021

SWR this Spring. And I am about to embark on some work around the vexed issue of shared parental leave for new mums and dads which was fudged by the coalition Government and – for all the grandstanding – hasn’t gone away.

If you have views and experience of this I would love to hear from you.

Much more, and daily updates, via www.fb.com/SteveBrineMP Steve Brine MP for Winchester & Dever Valley

Micheldever & Stratton Pre School Thriving in a pandemic Whilst we still are currently in a pandemic, the children and staff are excited about all the activities that we have been doing. Some of our exciting events have been introducing phonics, song time and exploring the outdoors, even despite the cold, snow and ice.

We have also been super lucky that the children have been able to continue their dance sessions via Zoom thanks to Ms Laura from Elibah School of Dance.

Over next term, we will be looking forward to continue to undertake our cooking, learning about animals and their habitats and developing our physical skills. We will also be looking to explore who we are and how amazing we are as human beings.

We really value the support from the local community and the committee are all volunteers who always help to support us.

An hour or two once a month can really make all the difference to help keep the preschool running.

Vacancy alert!

If you would be really willing to help us, we do have a voluntary role for a secretary for the preschool committee.

If you feel that this is something that you would be willing to help out with, we would be really happy to have you on board. It can be really rewarding.

Please contact our leader Mrs Nicola Rae at the email address below.

If you are looking for a pre-school setting that offers a small community, family type feel with highly experienced and qualified staff who can offer a high level of care and early years education then please contact our pre-school leader Mrs. Nicola Rae at leader.micheldeverpreschool@gmail.com

The Dever - March 2021 19

City Councillors’ News Public consultation has started on the City Council’s Strategic Issues and Priorities document as part of the review of its local development plan.

This document does not allocate sites for development but will set down the approach for those allocations. Our Ward could be impacted significantly by some of the options being considered, such as the allocation of land for a major new settlement (at Micheldever Station or Royaldown) or allocating development sites to all villages according to their existing size. You can find out more and have your views on these important matters recorded during the consultation period, which runs until 12th April 2021. Details are on the website at https://winchester.citizenspace.com.

The Government has confirmed that local elections will go ahead this year on 6th May 2021. You will be able to vote in elections for a County Councillor, a City Councillor and the Police and Crime Commissioner. Measures will be put in place to make voting as safe as possible, which will include a need for you to bring your own pen to mark the

Stephen

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

20

Caroline

ballot paper. You can register to vote by post or proxy at www.winchester. gov.uk/elections/absent-votes.

Following feedback from residents and local councillors, Winchester City Council have revised their proposals for new council housing in Southbrook Cottages, Micheldever. An additional 6 car parking spaces for use by any resident are now planned on top of the 6 already included in the scheme. Other detailed changes are also being considered.

Stephen and Caroline were part of a panel that agreed to 3 local groups seeking grants from the City Council. These grants will support the development of a community shop in Micheldever, the planting of new trees in Sutton Scotney and improving facilities around the cricket ground in Crawley. If your organisation needs financial help or guidance to improve our area, let one of us know.

Parish Councils are still all meeting online using video conferencing applications. Please look at their websites for details. All City Councillors are available for you to contact at any time.

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 - March 2021

Citizens Advice Winchester District Q. I’m worried about my elderly parents being targeted by coronavirus scams–are there any warning signs that I can tell them to look out for?

Unfortunately, we’ve seen an increase in scams since the beginning of the pandemic, so it’s good to be thinking about the steps you can take to help protect friends and family.

Common scams we’re seeing are about bogus testing kits, coronavirus vaccinations and government refunds or fines. You should watch out for messages about coronavirus from unusual email addresses or phone numbers, and shouldn’t click on any links. Be aware that you won’t be asked to pay for coronavirus vaccinations–they are provided for free by the NHS. Here are some general warning signs to look out for: You suspect you’re not dealing with a real company – for example, • If there’s no postal address • You’ve been asked to transfer money quickly or to pay in an unusual way – for example, by iTunes vouchers or through a transfer service like MoneyGram or Western Union

Lesley Rose, Advice Services Manager for Citizens Advice Winchester District, shares her advice on how to spot a scam.

• You’ve been asked to give away personal information like passwords or PINs • You haven’t had written confirmation of what’s been agreed If you think something is a scam you should hang up the phone, close the website, or shut the front door.

Never feel pressured to make a decision straight away, and don’t give out personal details or money unless you’re certain that they can trust the person.

If you feel threatened or unsafe you can ring 999.

For help with online scams you can contact a Citizens Advice Scams Action adviser by calling 0808 250 5050. Alternatively, please call us at Citizens Advice Winchester District on 0808 278 7861 For more information about other types of scams, visit the Citizens Advice website.

Citizens Advice Winchester District is an independent charity offering free, independent, high quality advice to everyone in our community.

Anyone requiring advice or support can call into our offices in Winchester or Bishops Waltham, get help online at www.citizensadvice.org. uk/winchester-district or call the Free Adviceline on 0808 278 7861.

The Dever - March 2021 21

Jackie’s County Corner Revised Minerals and Waste Plan This is being reviewed as the previous Minerals and Waste plan was published in 2013 and the ways in which we use building materials, recycling and disposal of waste has changed considerably in a decade too. Planning the sites is essential because these sites don’t always make good neighbours. One example is the proposal for the inert waste recycling plant at Three Maids Hill which was rejected by HCC last month.

County Council Accounts The County budget went to Council in February. The Council tax rise includes 3% for adult/children social care, but not enough: it will raise £21m but costs have increased to nearly £30million Funding for Broadband During 20-21 HCC supported the Government Gigabit scheme with a £1m fund for this county, but because of the difficulties of the scheme and Covid, take-up was low. We are awaiting news of the 2021-22 schemes now. See more on www.hants.gov.uk/ broadband or contact me for details.

Census 21 The ten year census is being held on Sunday 21st March - this time it’s broadly online but you can see more on the website www.census.gov.uk or if you prefer social media: #Census2021 Connect 4 Communities The County Council has funds for play schemes at half term and holidays.

Schemes must include elements of play, activity and food at lunchtime, primarily for children and families needing free school meals. It is open to childminders, 22

sports clubs and schools too. Contact me or suzanne.smith2@hants.gov.uk direct It’s called ‘Your Place, Your Plan’ The consultation on the Local Plan Strategic Issues and Options is open.

The response deadline is 12th April 2021. Go to www.localplan.winchester. gov.uk to take part-either online at one of the four public sessions or on the website. Short, longer and full versions of the questionnaire available too!

Footpaths and Bridleways The delivery plan for the Worthy Down to Winchester bridleway has been agreed and it is hoped it will be in place for Sept 21. The final part of the route is being worked on as we speak: I have always wanted the route to go into Winchester, not end on the Andover Road. I hope this persistence will pay off!

The Dever - March 2021

Flooding, A31, and Solar Farms There’s a lot more to discuss, and I cannot hold surgeries for a while yet, but please see my website through the month or contact me direct, my details below.

Cllr Jackie Porter 07973 696085 Jackie.porter@hants.gov.uk www.jackieporter.co.uk Twitter: @JackieLibDem New Facebook: jackie.porter.5036

Memorial Seats A couple of years ago I made a list of the memorial seats in the Parish, wondering how many of us know whom they commemorate. I hold the list in the Archive and it will go on the Community website which is being updated.

In the right hand column of the

list ‘Information Needed’ I have put ‘Yes please’ to indicate where I would be grateful to hear from anyone who knows–Hugh Sandars hugh@sandars.org.uk 774220. (In other cases such as Ernie Hobbs and Harry Symes, I already have obituaries).

Micheldever Location

Person/Dedication

By War Memorial

Ronald William Durrant 1911-1996

By War Memorial

Sylvia Joyce Durrant 1913-1987

Northbrook Hall Notice Board

1988 In memory of Dennis Walter Alcock for Services to the Parish

Crease

Peter Lee 1946-2017 Family Doctor Trusted Friend

Lane End Bungalows

The flooring for these bungalows was donated in memory of Lord and Lady Rank by the tenant farmers of his Sutton Manor Estate

Allotments

Ernie Hobbs – also a tree on LRPF from his family

Southbrook Cottages on Duke Street footpath

Lily Clark 4/11/1906 – 8/8/2008

Lord Rank Playing Field by Pavilion

In Memory of Ken Thorne

Lord Rank Playing Field by Playground

Micheldever Parish Council

Information needed?

Chairman of Parish Council mid 1970s

Yes please

Sheila Fullick’s mother Yes please 1952 Royal Diamond Jubilee 2012

The Dever - March 2021 23

Micheldever Location

Person/Dedication

Information needed?

Meadow View

Micheldever Parish Council To Commemorate The 100th birthday on June 9th 1979 of Mrs Edith Bassett

Yes please

Lord Rank Playing Field by Football Pitch

Ted Mitchener 7/1/42 - 16/1/99 (Long time football referee – lived Larkwhistle Farm)

Yes please

Northbrook Bridge

Given to the People of Northbrook Micheldever in gratitude for their kindness In memory of Katherine E G White. Died 6th May 1987

Northbrook Bridge

(Left) – This Land was given to the residents of Micheldever in memory of Bill Biggs watercress grower (Right)–Royal Silver Jubilee 1977

Churchyard by door on main path

Harry Symes some time Captain of Bells

Churchyard northwest corner of new plot area

Tom Tabbitt 1948 -2015

Churchyard far end of Cremateds plot by fence

Gordon Alfred Richardson 1949 -1950 Son of Peter and Joan dedicated by his sister Petrina’

Churchyard – middle of top of main plot

In Loving Memory of Frankie Foot

2 Plaques Yes please

[infant]

East Stratton Location

Person/Dedication

Behind War Memorial

‘This bench was made by Bill Morris during the Queen’s Silver Jubilee 1977’.

Churchyard – by south hedge

Carved ‘East Stratton Church’

Cross in Park

Inscription – This cross damaged by storm in 1989 was restored in 1998 to the memory of Francis John Baring 5th Baron Northbrook

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Information needed?

Morris lived at No 46 East Stratton

The Dever - March 2021

Forthcoming Events 2021 April 4th 10.30 am First Sunday in the Month Walk - The Warren Centre - tbc 6-9th MVG & Debbie Rush, Mary Poppins Play in a Week - tbc 7th 7.30 pm Micheldever Parish Council - tbc 29&30th 7.30 pm MVG the Peter Pan Pantomime - tbc May 2nd 10.30 am First Sunday in the Month Walk - The Warren Centre - tbc 5th 7.30 pm Micheldever Parish Council - tbc 9th 11.30 am Celebrating Micheldever Station 2020+1 - The Warren Centre - tbc 15th 7.30 pm Safari Supper - tbc.

27th Plant Sale & coffee morning - tbc.

June 2nd 7.30 pm Micheldever Parish Council - tbc 6th 10.30 am First Sunday in the Month Walk - The Warren Centre - tbc 17th-19th 7.30 pm MVG the Peter Pan Pantomime - tbc 20th 2.30 pm MVG the Peter Pan Pantomime - tbc 26th 1.00 pm Micheldever Church Fete - Lord Rank Playing Field.

July 4th 10.30 am First Sunday in the Month Walk - The Warren Centre - tbc 7th 7.30 pm Micheldever Parish Council–tbc 6

7

3 6

4 3 9

7 8 2 6 7 9 1 8 9 2 3 2 8 (Hard) 1 2 4 7 1 5

Sudoku

Daily Sudoku: Fri 15-Jan-2021

medium

1 2 5

February Solution

2 7 4 3 3 1 9

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

3 2 1 8

9 5 6 7

2 9 7 1

6 4 2 3

Daily Sudoku: Fri 15-Jan-2021

1 8 5 6

5 7 4 9

7 1 8 2

4 6 3 5

medium

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2021. All rights reserved.

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

8 6 4 1

8 7 9

5 7 6 1 8 9 7

Daily Sudoku: Mon 15-Feb-2021

5

8 4 3

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2021. All rights reserved.

3

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2021. All rights reserved.

2

hard

http://www.dailysudoku.com/ The Dever - March 2021 25

March Diary 1st Fairtrade Fortnight - final week see www.fairtrade.org.uk 3rd 7.30 pm Micheldever Parish Council - see notice below 7th First Sunday in the Month Walk - see notice inside front cover

Please Remember to Check That Events Are Taking Place Before Venturing Out Mobile Post Office Wednesday morning 9.30 – 10.30 Lord Rank Car Park (please note: times may vary slightly)

Post Alpha The 'Post Alpha’ course is on Zoom at 8pm each Tuesday.

If you didn’t attend the Alpha course but would like to attend this follow up course, please contact us for the zoom link.

Clare Fancourt Parish Coordinator - Upper Dever Churches coordinator.upperdever@hotmail.com

www.micheldeverparish.org.uk Parish Council Matters–Planning Applications, Meetings–Agendas, Dates & Minutes, Newsletters, Parish Assembly and more.

The next Micheldever Parish Council meeting will be

Wednesday 3rd March Meeting Link–https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89662669263 Dial-In–0203 481 5237 Meeting ID: 896 6266 9263

COVID19 Information

The latest information for Micheldever Parish, including live links to local services.

Visit www.micheldeverparish.org.uk and select COVID19 Information button on home page.

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The Dever - March 2021

Solar Together

Are you thinking about getting solar panels, but not sure where to start?

Register for free before 23 March www.solartogether.co.uk/hampshire

Save more as a group

Clear information

High-quality installation

Solar Together Hampshire

Extended guarantees

WHAT SHOULD YOUR

LOCAL PLAN

FOCUS ON ?

Carbon Neutrality Biodiversity and the Natural Environment Conserving and Enhancing the Historic Environment Homes for All Creating a Vibrant Economy Promoting Sustainable Transport and Active Travel Living Well Low Carbon Infrastructure and Local Plan Viability Delivery and Success of the Local Plan

INFORMATION EVENT

ONLINE QUESTIONNAIRE

THE NEW LOCAL PLAN FOR THE DISTRICT (OUTSIDE THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK)

WILL HELP SHAPE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

Consultation open 15 February to 12 April 2021 To find out more and respond to the consultation visit: www.localplan.winchester.gov.uk You can also register to attend a virtual information event on Thursday 4 March 2pm Friday 12 March 10am

Tuesday 9 March 7pm Saturday 20 March 10.30am

If you are not able to access the internet, please call 01962 848 508 and we will send you copies of the proposals and a feedback form to post back.