Loddon - October 2019

October 2019

Property News Get cosy Warm up your home using colour PAGE 4

INSIDE THIS ISSUE How to enjoy firework celebrations - safely

Prepare your home for autumn

PAGE 6

PAGE 8

Spooktacular things to do with the kids

PAGE 12

Editor’s letter Welcome to the October issue!

The clocks are set to change this month which can only mean one thing – the colder weather is on its way!

But fear not; inside this issue is lots of advice to help ensure your property doesn’t fall foul of the cold weather.

Now is the time to focus on preparing your home and garden against the elements. Doing so will ensure you don’t get any nasty surprises, such as burst pipes, or the death of your favourite garden plants you’ve lovingly tended to over the summer.

Prepare your property for colder weather Autumn is here; the leaves are falling and it’s getting colder.

Here are some handy tips for preparing your home for the colder months

And as the dark nights draw in, it’s also time to start planning for the seasonal events coming up on the calendar; Halloween and Bonfire night!

To get you inspired, inside we feature a winter-warming recipe, perfect for either event. And if you’re looking for something frightfully good to do to celebrate Halloween, our travel pages feature enough spooky events around the country to help you plan spooktacular fun!

We hope you enjoy reading this issue and we look forward to sharing more property-related and lifestyle articles with you next time.

Enjoy!

Linda McKeown Editor

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By turning your central heating back on now, you will be made aware of any issues with your heating before the cold weather really hits

You can lose as much as 30% of heating through seals and gaps in your loft

Boilers and radiators With the changeable weather over the summer, you will have probably turned your boiler on earlier than normal, only to turn it back off again with the warmer weather returning in September. If, however, you haven’t turned it on again, now is the time. By turning your central heating back on now, you will be made aware of any issues with your heating before the cold weather really hits.

It may be wise to get your boiler professionally serviced to check for any problems that may appear further down the line. An engineer will identify problems with your thermostat that you may not be aware of. Your radiators may have had a build-up of sludge over the summer months – an engineer will flush through the dirty water and replace it with clean water ready for the harsher winter months; helping to ensure you never have to go without heating.

Draughts The last thing you need is pesky draughts letting cold air in and hot air out. You can check for draughts yourself using a lit candle around door frames and window frames. When

there is a draught, the flame will blow towards you. You can then either fix the draught yourself using hardware from a store or by calling in the professionals.

You can lose as much as 30% of heating through seals and gaps in your loft.

Check under the insulation for cut-outs, pipes, wires etc, and seal them from the inside. If you have a log burner or multifuel burner, remember to close the flue after use, (when the fireplace has cooled) to avoid heat escaping.

Create a cosy ambience Even sealed windows can allow heat to escape. By using good quality curtains, you can better insulate your windows. Close them at nighttime and when you’re not at home to conserve heat. With the nights getting darker, light up your windows with some warm fairy lights to create a cosy ambience. If you feel cold, you will be cold; trick your mind and make your home as cosy as possible!

If you don’t have a real fireplace, light some scented candles. Choose autumnal scents such as wild pumpkin, cinnamon or cookies to create a cosy atmosphere in your

home. Spoil yourself with some fleecy blankets to wrap up in during the evenings. This will stop you from fiddling with the thermostat and making your house too warm.

Re-arrange the furniture Move your sofa, and any other furniture, away from the radiator; your sofa absorbs heat from the radiator which stops it from circulating around the room. The same goes for big TV units, dressers etc: try to keep your radiators unblocked by furniture so they can release heat just as they should.

In bedrooms, long curtains can have the same effect. If possible, tuck the curtains behind the radiator and move beds away from radiators too. Waking up with your arm on a scalding radiator isn’t an enjoyable experience for anyone!

If you have a conservatory clean it too and make it winter-ready; if you have vinyl flooring, invest in a thick shaggy rug. A conservatory can get cold even with a heating system installed, so opt for a plug-in heater too!

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Be inspired by

autumn’ s new colour trends

We love

Ha n d ma d Wo o l Y a r e Ch u n k n Bl a y M n k et e ri n o Y e llo w

The bedroom

Ochre is a beautiful mustard yellow that is taking the high-street by storm, and it’s perfect for brightening up a room while adding a cosy feel of autumn too.

Either opt for block colour or items featuring it as hints of colour. There are a whole host of ways of incorporating ochre into your bedroom, but we can’t resist a lovely, chunky, throw to snuggle up to help survive the colder nights coming our way!

Handmade Chunky Merino Wool Yarn Blanket Yellow Handmade from Merino wool, The Handmade Chunky Wool Yarn Blanket is incredibly soft and luxurious. The intricate craftsmanship gives the blanket a beautiful look and lush texture. Throw it at the end of your bed to add warmth to your bedroom. £44.95 www.tastitch.com

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Top pick Ideal Home Papillion Contour Fabric Accent Chair

The living room If you’re feeling brave and want to add colour to your living room, then opt for a colourful piece of furniture, such as a signature sofa or chair.

Ideal Home Papillion Contour Fabric Accent Chair Inspired by the classic mid-century contour chairs, Papillion features decorative button detail and soft rounded edges in pastel pink. The beautifully shaped leg section is wrapped in a naturally toned wood-effect that creates an eye-catching contrast against the felt-effect fabric above them. £219 www.very.co.uk

Think of autumn and warm tones of reds, browns and yellows come to mind.

Celebrate the season by adding the latest trends to your home

Key colour trends for the home are shades of yellow, rustic reds, dusky pinks and geometric colourways

Great value

On trend ni ng i D d re e t ls o h M a rg a ret U p li a & C o.

C h a i r Op h e

The dining room

Now’s the time to be bold with your colour choices for the home. Nothing is out of bounds, so try the likes of burnt reds with navy. Experiment and you’ll be surprised! And when it comes to your dining room, it’s no different. Update your entertaining and dining space to make an impact.

Margaret Upholstered Dining Chair Ophelia & Co. These chairs will add a comfortable, sophisticated feel for a formal or casual dining room. Honey finished legs made from hardwood offer modern simplicity and a rich tone to complement the seat of the chair. And at a price that won’t break the bank either! £183.99 – set of 4 www.wayfair.co.uk

Bo n e ood s W ric a n dle t e m Ge o wit h H

x

The Kids’ room

There’s no need to let the kids miss out on the latest trends this autumn. Give their room an uplift with fun, geometric furniture that’s practical as well as fashionable! From shelving units, funky cushions and rugs, there is plenty of inspiration out there. Why not try some geometric themed storage boxes?

Geometric Wooden Box with Handles Bring adorable design to your home with this decorative wooden storage crate from Happy Little Folks. Perfect for a children’s room, it’s ideal for holding little bits and pieces. Each box has been carefully hand-painted with the bold geometric shapes having been created by using nontoxic, water-based paint and sealed with non-toxic varnish.

Simply choose your colour scheme and off you go! £28 By Happy Little Folks www.notonthehighsstreet.com

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How best to prepare your garden for the colder months We are currently grasping onto the last ounces of sunny weather, and now your garden will need some attention and preparation for autumn and winter With the hottest day ever recorded in the UK having just passed us by (38.7 degrees Celsius in Cambridge on 25th July this year), your garden will have had its work cut out this summer, and is likely now feeling rather dried-out and exhausted. With the colder months just around the corner, here are our top tips as to how best to prepare your garden for the cooler times ahead.

Put away garden furniture Your outside furniture will have done you proud throughout the summer months, but now you need to ensure it doesn’t become needlessly wet, rusty, and perhaps even frozen in parts.

Pack away any chairs and tables, as well as the barbeque if it’s a movable one, to prevent them from becoming victims to the elements throughout the winter season. A dedicated storage space or a garage would be ideal places to store them.

Protect your low-growing plants from wet weather by covering them with a sheet of glass or a cloche, and surrounding them with a slightly elevated layer of gravel or grit

The final cut of the grass It’s advised that any good gardener should keep their lawn generally well-maintained throughout the winter months, keeping it tidy and well-looked after. Late October or early November is generally the ideal time to give your lawn its final trim before winter hits. However, if you live in a particularly mild area you may be able to get away with cutting your grass in December.

Rotting plants Rotting and dying plants and other vegetation in your garden don’t only look untidy, they can also spread disease to other, healthier, plants in the surrounding area. Pests and fungi are also likely with old plants and could incur further problems for your garden. Insects feeding on your crops throughout the summer may lay eggs on the stalks and leaves, so removing any finished plants prevents pests from getting a head start come springtime.

It’s also useful to note that burying old plants in your garden adds organic matter to your soil, which improves soil tilth and overall health.

Regenerate your compost A rich heap of compost can go a long way, and can be used to top up garden beds, amend deficient soils, and fertilize lawns. If you’re making way for another batch of compost and cleaning out the previous load, it’s likely to be insulated against winter’s chill, meaning microbes fester for longer into the winter. To prevent the microbes from festering further, compile your autumn compost heap with plenty of autumn leaves, straw or sawdust, layered with kitchen scraps and other active, green matter.

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Prepare the soil Autumn is a great time to add in new additions to the soil, such as manure, compost, kelp and rock phosphate. It’s often best to wait until your soil dries out before deciding to work it and add in extra nutrients: doing so in autumn means you won’t need to do as much in spring. Once you’ve added your additions, cover the bed of soil with sheets of plastic or other coverings to help prevent winter rains from washing the nutrients below the active root zone. The soil should be ready to be uncovered in dry spring, ready to work its magic.

Protect vulnerable plants from frost You can protect your low-growing plants from wet weather by covering them with a sheet of glass or a cloche, and surrounding them with a slightly elevated layer of gravel or grit, to ensure swift drainage of any potential rainwater. Some outdoor containers are frost-proof, and it’s advised you use these to prevent them cracking.

Plant cover crops Late summer or early autumn is an ideal time of the year to sow crops like rye, vetch and clover because, as well as adding nutrients, such crops as these help prevent soil erosion, break up compacted areas, and increase levels of organic matter in garden beds. Also, one way to increase the levels of available nitrogen for garden vegetables is to plant legumes in your garden, such as clover or field peas. Although some cover crops are hardier than others, it tends to be a general rule of thumb to plant cover crops around one month before your first killing-frost.

Late October to early November is generally the ideal time to give your lawn its final trim before winter hits

7

A guide to

staying safe

on Bonfire night

Bonfire night can be one of the most exciting nights of the year and for very good reason. It’s a night filled with pretty firework displays, traditional bonfire treats and cosy hot drinks. However, it’s important to stay safe Whether you’re attending a firework display or celebrating at home, it’s important to remember that there are certain things you should and should not do.

You should: • • • • • •

build your bonfire far away from your home stand far enough away from fireworks and the bonfire make sure an adult checks the bonfire for hidden animals have a bucket of water nearby for emergencies keep your beloved pets inside during the celebrations remember to wrap up warm

You should never: • return to a firework after it’s been lit • let off fireworks after 11pm, (or midnight on the 5 Nov), as it’s illegal • build a bonfire near to any trees, fences or your home • leave before ensuring the fire and surroundings are put out • pour petrol or paraffin on the fire

According to the RSPCA 45 percent of dogs show signs of fear when they hear a firework set off

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Firework safety

!

Bonfire night stats

Firework displays can be great for the whole family.

They can also be very dangerous, so here are a few tips on how to stay safe: • Only adults should; set up firework displays, light fireworks and safely dispose of them • You should only buy fireworks which show the CE mark • Read and follow the instructions • Use a taper to light the fireworks • Have a bucket of water at hand • Use a board or other non-flammable rigid surface for flat-bottomed fireworks • Stand at a safe distance whilst fireworks are going off

4, 436 people used the NHS A&E services for firework related injuries in 2017/2018 Around half of all firework injuries happen to children under the age of 16 (gov.uk) Over the past five years over 350 preschool children have been hospitalised due to firework injuries (UK fire service)

Tips to help keep your pets safe Fun with sparklers • Find somewhere safe and open • Make sure you wear gloves when handling sparklers • Sparklers shouldn’t be given to children under the age of five • Hold the sparkler away from your face and body • Never touch the end of the sparkler • Once it’s no longer burning, put it in a bucket of water

Bonfire night can be a very scary night for your furry friends. According to the RSPCA, 45 percent of dogs show signs of fear when they hear a firework set off. So, to help, we’ve put together a few useful tips to keep them safe and happy.

• If you have a dog, make sure you walk them in daylight hours before the fireworks start • Close all your windows and curtains, to help muffle the sound • Put the telly or radio on to provide distraction • Create some hiding spaces around the house and if they do hide under furniture, leave them there • Make sure your pet is microchipped in case they escape • For small animals, partly cover their cages with blankets: this will help with soundproofing

Spooktacular soup!

If you’re planning on carving pumpkins this Halloween, make the most of the whole pumpkin!

There are plenty of recipes out there to try, but we love this soup which uses both the flesh and seeds Pumpkin & lentil soup

Serves 4 Kcals per serving: 233 Suitable for vegetarians and gluten free

Ingredients • • • • • • • • •

1 tbsp olive oil, plus 1 tsp 2 onions, chopped 2 garlic cloves, chopped approx 800g chopped pumpkin flesh, plus the seeds 100g split red lentils ½ small pack thyme, leaves picked, plus extra to serve 1l hot vegetable stock pinch of salt and sugar 50g crème fraiche, plus extra to serve

Method 1. Heat the oil in a large pan. Fry the onions until softened and

starting to turn golden. Stir in the garlic, pumpkin flesh, lentils and thyme, then pour in the hot stock. Season, cover and simmer for 20-25 mins until the lentils and vegetables are tender.

2. Meanwhile, wash the pumpkin seeds. Remove any flesh still clinging to them, then dry using kitchen paper. Heat the 1 tsp oil in a non-stick pan and fry the seeds until they start to jump and pop.

Stir frequently but cover the pan in between to keep them in it.

When the seeds look toasted, add a sprinkling of salt and a pinch of sugar. Stir well.

3. Whizz the cooked pumpkin mixture with a hand blender or in a food processor until smooth, then add the crème fraiche and whizz again. Taste for seasoning.

4. Serve with a spoonful of crème fraiche, a few thyme leaves and the toasted seeds scattered on top.

This recipe, and more, can be found at www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/creamy-pumpkin-lentil-soup

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O T E TI M GET COSY! cold Don’t let the oors. keep you ind gainst Snuggle up a in soft the elements and chunky knits ories. stylish access faves…

Here are our

2-Piece Squirrel Print Hat & Mittens Set With this cute crocheted hat and matching mittens, they’ll be ready for splashing through all the puddles! Featuring ribbed cuffs, for a snuggly mitten fit. Embellished hat features a fun pom pom and squirrel motif. £14 www.marksandspencer.com

Girls grey padded belted longline coat Featuring zip pockets and detachable faux fur trim, this padded and belted long-sleeve coat is ideal for any fashion-conscious girl. Made from 100% polyester fabric. £50 www.riverisland.com

Monsoon Space Stripe Novelty Gloves Simply fun at their fingertips!

These novelty gloves feature space-themed appliqués – perfect for any space-loving child.

Available for ages 3 - 13 years. £12 www.very.co.uk

Boys’ Tech Parka Made from a shower-resistant material, this parka features a zip-through front, pockets for stashing essentials and a faux-fur lined hood to help protect against the elements.

Available in bright blue, navy and red colourways. £55 - £61 www.johnlewis.com

Barbour® Leather Black Utility Gloves Invest in these 100% leather gloves to keep your hands warm and protected against the cold. £60 www.next.co.uk

Accessorize Devonshire Check Blanket Scarf In a classic check, this Devonshire blanket scarf

by Accessorize is sure to lift your winter looks with tones of pink and yellow. 100% acrylic.

L190 x W70 cm. £20 www.very.co.uk

Chilton Short Padded Wellies Don’t let the rain dampen your mood, or your style!

These mid-height wellies from Joules are super stylish and have been finished with a faux fur collar for warmth. An anti-slip sole gives extra grip for those frosty mornings. £49.95 www.joules.com

Accessorize Nude Chunky Cable Poncho Ponchos are still on trend for the colder months, and this chunky knit poncho, made from 100% acrylic, is a must-have to help defend against the cold. £32 www.next.co.uk

SD-3 Parka Jacket Dress your man in style while keeping him cosy.

With removable faux fur trim, a zip and toggle button fastening, five outer pockets, one inner pocket and ribbed cuffs, what more could he want in a jacket! £90.99 www.superdry. com

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Shrieks

ahead!

Grab your broomsticks, it’s Halloween! Here’s how to keep your little coven spellbound and the not-so-little monsters in your life cackling at some of Britain’s top haunts

Apparently, we have the Celts to thank for Halloween and its creepy traditions.

According to some scholars, the last day of October marked the end of the Celtic calendar and was the day they chose to honour their dead. Unfortunately, the Celts also felt this was the time when the barrier between worlds became wafer thin, allowing spirits to cross over and mingle with the living in order to destroy their recently gathered crops.

So, to prepare themselves for this medieval fright night, the Celts across Britain and Europe

disguised themselves as ghosts and ghouls to wander unopposed, further arming themselves with lanterns carved from large seasonal vegetables and lighting bonfires. Sound familiar?

– the night before All Saints Day, which is November 1 – and, with the Church starting to restrict Pagan practises, Irish settlers heading to America took their traditions with them.

Of course, the well-to-do were far too important to indulge with such supernatural superstitions, so the poor offered to pray for their dead as well – in return for a small cake or, if you like, a treat.

Conversely, in Irish mythology the Pooka (think Puck in A Midsummer Night’s Dream) would also be around to play pranks. Of course, you can’t miss the trick.

And that’s how a festival dedicated to death snowballed into the multi-million-pound fun night we know and love today.

The name Halloween originates from the mid-1700s and is derived from the Scottish All Hallows’ Eve

BOLSOVER CASTLE

Warwick Castle WARWICK From October 19 until November 3, the castle becomes a dead cert for those looking for bloodcurdling tales. With a choice of scare levels – Plucky Pumpkins, Daring Dukes and Brave Knights – you can meet a host of bizarre characters, wondrous witches and even the crew of the Paranormal Encounters TV show as they try to discover why the ghosts of Warwick cannot leave.

Further details: warwick-castle.com

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Given such a macabre backstory, it’s really no surprise the best places to get spooked at Halloween are Britain’s mythladen stately homes and castles.

We feature five which we are sure will help raise the chill factor.

DERBYSHIRE

It’s really no surprise the best places to get spooked at Halloween are Britain’s mythladen stately homes and castles

Said to be one of the country’s most haunted castles – which encouraged staff to keep a special ‘ghost book’ to record the eerie experiences of visitors! You may even bump into the ghost of Sir Charles, said to wander the corridors of his former home, or catch the distinct whiff of horses coming from the empty riding school.

Further details: english-heritage.org.uk and search for Bolsover Castle

The name Halloween originates from the mid-1700s and is derived from the Scottish All Hallows’ Eve – the night before All Saints Day

oxford Castle

OXFORD Visitors to Oxford Castle, another of Britain’s most haunted buildings, will be met by a host of Halloween-themed fun; from Bill Spectre’s ghost trails and midnight ghost tours of the castle, to the jailbreak escape room puzzle game, as well as Trick or Treat evenings, pumpkin carvings and ghost hunts for families and children.

Whitby Abbey

Further details: oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk/events/ event/ghostfest/

NORTH YORKSHIRE

Fancy exploring the darker side of history among bright lights? No better place than an illuminated tour of the ruins which inspired Dracula, Bram Stoker’s classic horror story where you can meet witches and witchfinders.

Further details: english-heritage.org.uk and search for Whitby Abbey

Other events Added to the above, the London Dungeon is promising something terrifyingly spectacular in their Halloween show (thedungeons. com) while younger thrillseekers will love Brick or Treat, the spooktacular sleepover event at LEGOLAND Windsor (legolandholidays.co.uk). And just to prove ghostly goings-on aren’t confined to dry land, the skeleton crew of a ghostly pirate ship has moved into Portsmouth Historic Dockyard bringing with them Halloween crafts, face painting, a deathly disco, kids trail and lots of competitions (historicdockyard.co.uk).

margam CASTLE SOUTH WALES

Margam Castle in Port Talbot can be a chilling location at the best of times and is said to be the home of the nasty and angry spirit of a gamekeeper who really throws his weight around! The castle has seen a lot of paranormal activity so their after-dark Halloween Ghost Hunt should be a ghoulish experience.

Further details: eeventbrite.co.uk/e/halloweenat-margam-castle-ghosthunt-south-wales Of course, if you prefer your Halloween to be more home-based there are several things to keep the youngsters occupied before they go Trick or Treating.

The English Heritage website (English-heritage.org.uk) carries helpful guides to making creepy lanterns and masks, as well as proposing a change to the modern trend of carving pumpkins by reverting to the more traditional turnips.

No self-respecting party would be complete without apple bobbing, another game which can be traced back to the Celts, who tied apples to trees to encourage the sun god to return the following year.

Then it’s off for the much-loved house-to-house procession where clusters of Grim Reapers, zombies, Captain Jack Sparrows, ghosts, skeletons and even Hulks knock on doors and demand: ‘Trick or Treat?’

Whatever would the Celts have made of it all?

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The EFL Championship: How are the promotion favourites doing so far?

Promotion from the EFL Championship is the most lucrative prize in world football; worth around £170 million because of the enormous TV rights package on offer!

Last years’ promoted teams, Norwich City, Aston Villa and Sheffield United are already feeling the harsh realities of life in the Premier League.

But, with masses of money paid out in transfer fees and player contracts upon promotion, they will hope to duplicate the success of teams such as Burnley, Bournemouth and Wolves in the long run.

Two teams win promotion automatically every year, with a play-off for the final spot from the teams positioned third to sixth. It’s a long hard slog with 46 games in the league, (and cup games on top,) and the Championship always throws up some surprises along the way.

Before the busy winter period, here is our handy guide to how the promotion favourites are faring so far.

Leeds United Promotion from the EFL Championship is the most lucrative prize in world football

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Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds were last years’ play off final losers; despite sitting at the top of the table for most of the season the players tired and they lost their way. Losing first-teamer Pontus Jansson and top-scorer Kemar Roofe, and without the funds to replace them, they have looked to youngsters on loan from the Premier League this season. With another preseason under his belt and described as the ‘best manager in the world’

by Guardiola, expect them not to

tire this year. They steamrollered over Swansea, only to lose in the 90th minute, so they will hope Eddie Nketiah and Helder Costa bed in and make an impact as they don’t want the same problems as last season, when they lacked the cutting edge in attack.

Cardiff City Swansea City may be flying high at the start of the season, but expect this to be a temporary surge, much like a 100:1 outsider out front in the Grand National. They will fade, but expect Welsh rivals, Cardiff City, to hold steady throughout the season.

Neil Warnock is an old hand at getting teams promoted, holding the record with 8 promotions in his management career. Cardiff have a solid squad of players, ready to rotate over the busier periods; when other teams drop off.

Don’t be surprised when they’re, at least, in the play-off spots come the turn of the new year. And with Will Vaulks catapult throws, expect some last-minute goals ruining everyone else’s party.

Fulham Fulham spent big last year to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

Caretaker manager Scott Parker did enough at the end of last season to get the job full time. They have a large squad of players, most with Premier League experience who will itch to get back to the top-flight.

Like Leeds, they have dipped into the Premier League loan market, bringing in the experience of Harry Arter and the exciting Ivan Cavaleiro from Wolves, and kept hold of star striker Aleksandar Mitrovic. Expect Mitrovic and Cavaleiro to be pushing each other in their own personal goalscoring competition to the end of the season and don’t be surprised if Mitrovic reaches the magical thirty.

THE

perks

OF

RENTING

Between 2007 and 2017, the number of people renting in the UK increased by 63% A record number of people now rent their home as opposed to buying; with a large selection choosing to rent even though they could afford to buy. Renting has a huge number of perks and, with owning a home not as much of a priority for younger generations, this will continue to rise.

The largest group of private renters are those aged 25-34. However,

there has also been an increase in renting for 45-54-year-olds. With new measures introduced earlier in the year, tenants have never been better protected.

The increase in private renters isn’t necessarily because buying a house is out of their budget, many rent instead of buying due to career, family and the huge number of benefits that come from renting.

SO, WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST BENEFITS OF RENTING? The world moves faster than ever before. On average, Millennials switch jobs more often than older generations; with 60% always open to new opportunities. The job market has changed with people rarely staying in one job throughout their life. Many now want the flexibility to move to new areas to pursue their career.

Renting is the perfect choice for those that do, as there is no need to put your house on the market, await viewings, negotiate offers and then wait for conveyancing.

Leaving a rental property entails handing in your notice, cleaning and then moving!

QUICK PROCESS

Many rent instead of buying due to career, family and the huge number of benefits that come from renting

Moving into a rental property is quicker than buying a property too.

When you rent, you calculate how much you can afford using your salary, go on some viewings and then confirm to us, the agent, that you like the property.

After this, you can put down a deposit and wait for the reference checks to complete, which usually takes a week. Once referencing is complete, you will confirm your

move-in date, pay your deposit and usually your first month’s rent, and pick up your keys. In theory, with the process running smoothly, you could view a house on a weekend and move in the next weekend!

NO REPAIR BILLS If you own your home and the boiler breaks, or the oven stops working, you will need to pay a professional to replace or fix the item and do the work. In a rental property, report these problems and the landlord will get them fixed quickly at no cost to yourself, (as long as you didn’t cause the damage). This is the same for smoke alarms, Carbon Monoxide alarms and any other problems that happen during your tenancy.

INSPECTIONS HELP YOU KEEP ON TOP OF THE CLEANING That dreaded word every tenant fears: ‘inspection’. However, this is the perfect opportunity to remind you to do a deep clean every sixmonths. When you own your home, you have no-one coming around to check on the condition of the property, which can lead to laziness in the upkeep of your home.

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LD SO Frogs Castle, Old Basing £1,500,000 LODDON PROPERTIES are proud to present this luxury country estate home to the market. This versatile equestrian family home, is tucked away on country lanes with its own private coded access leading to a ½ mile private drive way which takes you to the property.

The drive way has ample parking for 15+ vehicles and horse boxes with the added benefit of 3 garages. To the rear of the property there is fully serviced stables and further sheds and out buildings. The paddocks (6+ Acres) and gardens are enclosed with fences and hedge rows. Inside this home you are really spoilt for choice with the amount of space. The country style kitchen is fully fitted with Range cooker, wine fridge and all other white goods included. The separate utility has a washing machine with separate dryer. Further to this on the ground floor you will find a Snug, Study, extravagantly large Lounge/Diner and Large conservatory. Upstairs there are four bedrooms with master to en-suite and a family bathroom.

info@loddonproperties.com

01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ

LE T

CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION

The Dell, Kingsclere

ÂŁ3,500 pcm LODDON PROPERTIES - Nestled between Newbury and Basingstoke in the historic village of Kingsclere, this prime contemporary home is designed with complete privacy and lifestyle in mind. Perfectly positioned to take advantage of the splendid views of both the garden and surrounding countryside.

Offering quick and easy access to main roads, this well appointed home with unique features has it all. Spacious and well designed for the extended family seeking ample entertainment space both indoor and outdoors, luxurious accommodation and space to work from home or indulge hobbies. The property is approached through wooden gates to a driveway leading up to the house, offering ample parking and access to the double garage. The house offers great flexible accommodation with spacious open plan living. Downstairs, a grand entrance hall leads you to a large dual aspect drawing room with doors out to a patio. A farmhouse sized kitchen with Aga, leading to the patio and on to the private garden stocked with mature trees, shrubs and flowers. A separate dining room, leading into a garden room overlooking the beautiful grounds, a TV/family room, guest bedroom with Jack and Jill en suite, as well as a study, utility and cloakroom. Upstairs are a further 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 with en suite with the master suite also having a separate dressing room.

loddonproperties.com

Compton Way, Sherfield Park

£74,000 40% shared ownsership

LODDON PROPERTIES are delighted to offer a 40% SHARED OWNERSHIP modern, ground floor, one bedroom apartment, situated in the award winning, sought after Sherfield Park development. This property boasts a spacious entrance hall, dual aspect gorgeous open plan living area comprising living/dining room and a modern fitted kitchen with built in oven and hob, double bedroom and modern bathroom. The property also benefits from one allocated parking space.

Any interested parties should register with Help to Buy South and have a local connection to the Borough of Basingstoke and Deane.

Cibbons Road, Basingstoke £169,500

LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to bring to the market this delightful one double bedroom ground floor maisonette. Set back from the road the property benefits from a quiet non overlooked location within walking distance of local amenities. There is easy access to the Chineham Shopping Centre, A33 and motorway junction.

With it’s own PRIVATE ENTRANCE the property comprises of one good sized bedroom and a built in wardrobe. The property benefits from a fully FITTED KITCHEN, lounge/diner leading out to the COMMUNAL GARDEN. Modern bathroom suite with SHOWER over bath. Gas central heating and double glazing throughout. One ALLOCATED GARAGE and ample visitors parking available. Call now to arrange your appointment to view.

info@loddonproperties.com

01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ

CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION

Warnford Grove, Sherfield Park

LE T

ÂŁ1,950pcm

LODDON PROPERTIES are delighted to bring to market this immaculate, four bedroom family home located in the award winning Sherfield Park development. This impeccable property benefits from a 29ft kitchen/dining room opening to a conservatory with french doors leading out to an enclosed low maintenance, decked garden. The first floor comprises of a bedroom with fitted wardrobes, a modern sleek fitted family bathroom and the living room to the front of the property with twin aspect and a Juliette balcony over looking a green. On the third floor are a further two bedrooms both with modern en-suite shower rooms and fitted wardrobes. The loft on this property has been converted into a playroom/bedroom with separate toilet, which acts as a very versatile room within this family home.

Churchill Place, Basingstoke

ÂŁ950pcm

LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer this one bedroom, fully furnished apartment to the rental market.

The apartment is one of the larger one bedroom plots at Churchill Place, comprising of a large open plan lounge, diner and kitchen with integrated appliances. A spacious double bedroom with built in wardrobe and bathroom with shower. Perfectly located in the centre of Basingstoke, the property provides excellent commuter links both by road and rail.

Available now so call our team to arrange a viewing 7 days a week and evening appointments available.

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Mathias Walk, Basingstoke

SO S T LD C

£239,500

LODDON PROPERTIES bring to the market this two bedroom semi detached house within the popular area of Basingstoke. In need of cosmetic updating this property offers a large lounge/dining room, spacious kitchen with access to the rear garden, two double bedrooms both with built in wardrobes and family bathroom. Outside there is a driveway parking leading to an attached garage and front garden mainly laid to lawn. The rear garden is a good size, fully enclosed with a side access gate, patio area and lawn, and a rear access to door to the garage.

This property would make an ideal home for first time buyers or investors.

Guernsey Close, Popley £262,500 LODDON PROPERTIES are delighted to offer to the market this spacious three bedroom family home. Featuring a larger than average lounge/ dining room, utility room and WC, three double bedrooms and a family bathroom. The current sellers have lovingly maintained and refurbished this house, the kitchen has been beautifully re-fitted. Further benefits include, stunningly landscaped, private rear garden, gas central heating, and double glazed throughout. This is a perfect family property.

Churchill Place, Basingstoke £189,995 Tenant in !!! Yield of 5.3%!! Great investment!

Loddon Properties is proud to bring to market a brand new 1 bedroom apartment with parking space. If you´re looking for a fantastic quality of life or a great investment, look no further than Churchill Place.

Located in the heart of Basingstoke, with a private, direct connection to Festival Shopping Centre. Offering investors the chance to own a piece of Basingstoke’s landmark building in the number one location, this latest development is an investment opportunity in the heart of one of the uk’s fastest growing towns. The stunning development also boasts direct and private access for residents to the Festival Shopping centre; featuring premium shops, restaurants and bars; as well as direct access to Basingstoke train station, making the apartments perfect for commuters. Along with a fantastic location, Churchill Place offers a unique opportunity to purchase a luxury apartment within 45 minutes of London, and secure highly in demand parking in one of the uk’s most sought after locations outside of the capital. With more than 7,000 companies contributing millions to the local economy, low unemployment and a buoyant retail and leisure sector, Basingstoke is a town primed for future growth and development.

Please call for further information.

info@loddonproperties.com

01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ

CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION

Tollway, Chineham

SO S T LD C

£575,000

LODDON PROPERTIES are delighted to bring to the market this executive, detached home in an extremely sought after area of Chineham. In superb condition, the whole property exudes a feeling of space, with an entrance hall, cloakroom, a large dual aspect living room with feature fireplace and doors into the expansive conservatory and the adjoining dining room leading into the conservatory, with double doors out to the enclosed garden. The modern kitchen is dual aspect, with plenty of units and two built in ovens and hob. Off the kitchen is a practical utility room with access out to the garden, additionally, there’s a TV/family room. On the first floor you will find a very generous, dual aspect, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, an equally generous dual aspect second bedroom, two further bedrooms and family bathroom with a ‘P’ shape bath and shower over. Outside the impressive frontage has a block paved driveway with ample parking for several vehicles and a detached double garage, one side of which houses a gym/home office. The family friendly rear garden is enclosed and has a very sunny aspect, with lawn, decked paths, patio entertaining areas, flower borders and mature shrubs.

Wylie Gardens, Everest Park £199,500

LODDON PROPERTIES bring to the market this spacious and well presented top floor apartment located in the popular area of Everest Park. Offering a telephone entry system to a communal entrance, this property can be found on the top floor. The front door opens into the entrance hallway with doors to the living room, bedrooms and bathroom and two large storage cupboards. The spacious dual aspect living room opens through to the modern kitchen with built in gas hob, fan assisted oven and extractor hood over. Overlooking the rear and side of the property is the wrap around balcony with space for table and chairs. Two double bedrooms and family bathroom comprising, a master with en suite shower room and additional spacious rear aspect bedroom. Outside the property benefits from allocated parking at the front of the building.

Conveniently located, this apartment is ideal for investors or first time buyers and benefits from local amenities, schools, doctors and convenient stores with further shopping and leisure facilities in Basingstoke. With great commuter links via the A339 to the M3 junction 6, and Basingstoke town centre with its mainline railway station and fast trains (45 mins) to London Waterloo. Please call for your private viewing.

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Kingsclere, Basingstoke £1,150pcm

Greenwood Drive, Chineham £1,250pcm

LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to market this stunning three bedroom family home boasting an abundance of character, from the moment you walk in. Downstairs this 1940s home comprises of entrance porch with downstairs cloakroom, hallway, three reception rooms, downstairs shower room, gulley kitchen with all white goods included and separate utility room, living room, dining room and a family room. Upstairs you will find a family bathroom with shower over bath, and three bedrooms, two of which offer excellent amounts of storage from the fully fitted wardrobes. This family home has had new carpets downstairs and a full redecoration throughout. To the rear of the property there is a large private enclosed garden and patio area.

LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer this freshly refurbished 3 bedroom house to the rental market. This property has been newly decorated with new carpets, doors and a new down stairs cloak room. This beautifully presented 3 bedroom house has a larger than average kitchen, newly fitted WC and an exceptionally large lounge diner with patio doors leading to the garden. Upstairs has 3 bedrooms with family bathroom which has both jacuzzi bath and shower over bath.

This family home further benefits from a private enclosed garden, garage in block and parking. THIS PROPERTY WILL CONSIDER PETS ON APPLICATION.

Phoenix Park Terrace, Basingstoke

Winterthur Way, Basingstoke £795pcm

£975pcm LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to present this NEWLY REFURBISHED Victorian character cottage, combining charm with bright and well presented accommodation. The property is ideally situated being walking distance to the Basingstoke town centre and train station. The sitting room is at the front of the house with a feature fireplace. To the rear is a NEWLY fully fitted kitchen and modern bathroom with shower over bath. Upstairs there are two good sized, double bedrooms. At the rear of the property there is a secluded courtyard garden. The property benefits from gas central heating throughout. The property has been redecorated throughout and also has had new carpets fitted.

LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer this freshly refurbished 3 bedroom house to the rental market. This property has been newly decorated with new carpets, doors and a new down stairs cloak room. This beautifully presented 3 bedroom house has a larger than average kitchen, newly fitted WC and an exceptionally large lounge diner with patio doors leading to the garden. Upstairs has 3 bedrooms with family bathroom which has both jacuzzi bath and shower over bath.

This family home further benefits from a private enclosed garden, garage in block and parking. THIS PROPERTY WILL CONSIDER PETS ON APPLICATION.

info@loddonproperties.com

01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ

CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION

Appleton Drive, Marnel Park £950pcm

Amport Road,, Sherfield Park

£1,950pcm LODDON PROPERTIES are delighted to bring to market this immaculate, four bedroom family home located in the award winning Sherfield Park development. This impeccable property benefits from a 29ft kitchen/dining room opening to a conservatory with french doors leading out to an enclosed low maintenance, decked garden. The first floor comprises of a bedroom with fitted wardrobes, a modern sleek fitted family bathroom and the living room to the front of the property with twin aspect and a Juliette balcony over looking a green. On the third floor are a further two bedrooms both with modern en-suite shower rooms and fitted wardrobes. The loft on this property has been converted into a playroom/ bedroom with separate toilet, which acts as a very versatile room within this family home.

LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to bring to the market, this well presented 2 bedroom DUPLEX COACH HOUSE within the POPULAR Marnel Park development. Its prime location offers easy access to EXCELLENT COMMUTER ROUTES and local amenities including the Chineham Shopping Centre. The property has a front garden area and its own PRIVATE ENTRANCE. Inside, the hallway leads to the stairs and first floor. First floor; Comprising of a fitted kitchen and lounge with JULIET BALCONY and views across an open green. Off the hallway there is a spacious CLOAKROOM with window and a cupboard housing the washing machine. Stairs leading to the second floor; 2 DOUBLE bedrooms with FITTED WARDROBES to the master. Main bathroom with white suite and SHOWER over bath. Large airing cupboard with boiler. Further benefits include gas central heating and double glazing throughout. This property comes with one ALLOCATED PARKING space to the rear of the property and an outside STORAGE cupboard.

There is FURTHER PARKING to the front of the house. Viewing is highly recommended CALL NOW TO BOOK A VIEWING APPOINTMENT. PROPERTY IS AVAILABLE NOW!

Amport Road, Sherfield Park £975pcm

Chilworth Way, Sherfield Park £1,950pcm

LODDON PROPERTIES are proud to offer to the market this SPACIOUS 2 double bedroom apartment on the POPULAR SHERFIELD PARK DEVELOPMENT. Available EARLY OCTOBER. A secure entry system gives access to the well maintained communal areas and LIFTS TO ALL FLOORS. The spacious kitchen offers a DISHWASHER, fridge/freezer, electric oven, GAS HOB and a washer/ dryer. The property BOASTS a DUAL ASPECT lounge/ diner offering a light living space with neutral carpet and decor. There are 2 DOUBLE BEDROOMS. The master bedroom has a modern EN-SUITE shower room and sliding FITTED WARDROBES. The generous second bedroom is a good size double. Both bedrooms are carpeted. The main bathroom is fully tiled and has a SHOWER over the bath. Further benefits include storage cupboards, double glazing, GAS CENTRAL HEATING. There is one ALLOCATED PARKING SPACE off road to the rear of the property. This apartment will make an ideal home for a single professional or couple. It has a superb quiet location within the development whilst offering easy access to EXCELLENT COMMUTER ROUTES and the local amenities at Chineham Shopping Centre. CALL OUR TEAM NOW ON 01256 808454 TO BOOK YOUR PERSONAL VIEWING APPOINTMENT

LODDON PROPERTIES are very pleased to offer to the rental market this beautifully presented four double bedroom detached family home. Built to the Chelworth design by David Wilson Homes, this property offers fantastically sized accommodation throughout consisting of a large dual aspect living room, study/family room, modern fitted kitchenbreakfast room with separate diner, utility room, down stairs cloakroom and a spacious grand entrance hall on the ground floor. The first floor offers a large open galleried landing with access to four double bedrooms and a contemporary 4 piece family bathroom. The Master suite leads to en-suite with shower.Outside to the rear there is a good size attractive private enclosed garden. And to the front parking is ample with garage and off street parking, with views overlooking a wooded copse. Situated in the award winning Sherfield Park development with excellent commuter links via the A33 to the M4 /M3 this property with attract a large amount of interest. The property falls in to catchment areas for well renowned schools and in close proximity of excellent shopping facilities. This rarely available family home is offered to the market unfurnished. Available from early October. CALL NOW ON 01256 808454 TO ARRANGE YOUR PERSONAL APPOINTMENT TO VIEW

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Meet Our Team Dawn Company Owner Dawn founded Loddon Properties and her primary focus is always on the customer, ensuring they receive the optimum care from her and her multi-lingual team. Dawn’s drive and commitment is responsible for developing Loddon Properties into the number one ranked independent estate agency in the area. Outside of work, Dawn is the chairman of the Wellington Boot Club, enjoys cultural travel and has a thing for shoes. She also enjoys good food, her family and her wonderful dog Rolo.

Lyle Lettings Director Lyle is Director of Lettings. Utilising his BA hons in Business Studies, he has expanded the lettings portfolio tremendously, so that Loddon is now the leading lettings agency in the area. He is highly adept at maximising rental income for landlords, works with property investors on acquisitions and is a highly-respected advisor on rental information and property investment. Lyle is now getting used to sleeping a lot less than he used to, as he has recently become a proud father.

Pedro Office Manager Pedro is our Office Manager and has over 20 years of sales experience in both Banking and Estate Agency. He understands that the buying and selling of a home is one of the biggest decisions in a customer’s life and guides them through this smoothly. His calm manner and vast experience have a soothing effect on the sometimes turbulent world we work in. Outside of work, Pedro is a keen cook, recreating many dishes from his Southern European homeland.

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Carla Director of Property Management Carla, our Director of Property Management, is a perfectionist and will always strive to deliver the highest level of professional customer service, for both our landlords and tenants. Having worked within customer services for over 20 years and a further 5 years specifically in Property Management, she enjoys working closely with landlords and tenants and as Lettings team leader, thrives in making sure a high level of customer service is delivered, by working hard and being efficient even in difficult situations. As well as her family and dogs, Carla’s main passion is ballroom dancing, though she has yet to receive the call to go on Strictly!

Neil Property Management Manager As Property Maintenance Manager, with 8 years of experience from all aspects of the Lettings industry Neil brings his vast skills to Loddon, ensuring a smooth transition for both Landlords and Tenants through from inception to finalisation.

Neil thrives on providing an excellent, personal service and his attention to detail, with both landlords and tenants alike. Ensuring that, should there be any problems during the tenancy, that they are dealt with in an efficient and timely manner. Neil boasts that working at Loddon is a very enjoyable part of his life. He feels it is not just the work, but the people he works with that make his working day so much fun. In his free time, of which there’s not much, Neil likes to run, hike and wherever possible sunbathe!

Julie Inventories and Inspection Manager Julie has been in the Property Industry since 1997 having started in New Home Sales and progressed to Lettings in 2008 whereby she became an Inventory Consultant/ Property Inspector. Julie’s happy-go-lucky, helpful, positive personality, coupled with her professionalism, allows her to get along with both Landlords and tenants from all walks of life. This comes in useful when she helps deal with any queries resulting from the property inspections, should they arise. Julie’s Role at Loddon is to make and provide Inventories, carry out tenant check-ins & check-outs, along with regular property inspections. She works closely with Carla and Neil and the rest of their teams to ensure the seamless running of the Property Management side of the Company. Julie’s passion for her dogs and love for life uses up most of her spare time!

Marion Head of Sales Progression Marion has been in Estate Agency for over 20 years and during that time has gone from secretary to office manager. With her excellent secretarial and organised administration background, Marion is now Head of our Sales Progression department. She puts her skills to good use. Pulling out all of the stops, making sure all parties are kept updated, ensuring that your journey from sale to completion is as straight forward as possible and most importantly, making sure your moving process is a happy and positive one. Marion is always busy but spends her free time with her family and their animals and taking well-earned holidays in sunnier and hotter climates.

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Dont just take our word for it .....

We had seen a lot of property “for sale” and the “sold” signs around Chineham, so naturally decided to look at Loddon when we were looking at selling.

The way that Loddon marketed our property; all the photos were really good, they looked good on site and professional. If we were ever to sell our house again, we would use Loddon.

Lorraine Allcock / Seller

Loddon Properties are a friendly family organisation and we quite enjoyed their company and their approach to the whole thing.

They have a great team of people and we felt many of the individuals in there, right from Lyle and Dawn, through to the sales team including Pedro and the lettings team with Carla, everybody seemed to be able to answer questions I have.

Annie Elvin / Seller

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Loddon are really approachable and, if there’s any problem with property, they come to the landlord first to see how you want to progress with it.

Unlike a lot of other estate agents, they don’t get work done without you qualifying what you want to be done.

Paul Kennett / Landlord

Excellent service and communication from start to finish I can summarise my buying and selling with Loddon Properties as excellent- from start to finish.

Mr David and Mrs Sylvia Atkinson / Sellers

Loddon have got their finger on the pulse.

Understand the market and have been very good at advising me at every level of the transactions.

Mr Herbert Goodenough / Landlord

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All the help YOU NEED under one roof

Here at Loddon Properties we know that family matters.

Market your property with us and we’ll treat you as one of our own; we promise to concentrate on even the little things that make a big difference to your move.

Contact us today for your FREE valuation

T. 01256 808454 W. Ioddonproperties.com