LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
PROPERTY NEWS
FEBRUARY 2021
SEEDS TO SOW AND BULBS TO BUD TOP GARDENING TIPS FOR THIS MONTH VALENTINE’S DAY SET THE MOOD AT HOME THIS YEAR
BLOCKBUSTER SOUND CREATE THE PERFECT HOME CINEMA SETUP
THE FUTURE IS AUDIBLE HOW WE CONSUME DIGITAL CONTENT HAS CHANGED
FITNESS AND WELLBEING HOW TO LOOK AFTER YOURSELF IN LOCKDOWN
CONTENTS COVER STORY
14
Seeds to sow and bulbs to plant It’s time to prepare the ground for summer blooms and crops
PROPERTY
4 16 20
Home entertainment system Helpful tips for upgrading your sound system Our latest instructions Take a look at a selection of our latest properties on the market About us Get to know our team a little better and see why we are your agent of choice
FOOD
8
A romantic night in Treat your partner with this spectacular Valentine’s dinner
LIFESTYLE
2
Designing your Valentine’s day Celebrate at home with your significant other
6
Audible Books Reasons to be encouraged by this new style of literature
7
Valentine gifts for pets Wonderful ideas for your pet on this special day
10
Positive vibes Things we can do to give ourselves a lift at this difficult time
12
What is Shrove Tuesday? What is it? Where does it come from? And what happens?
SPORT
13
Six Nations Championship As the countdown continues England maintain momentum
WELCOME TO THE FEBRUARY ISSUE! The year hasn’t kicked off the way most wanted it to, but we have made it to February. The property market has had a huge start this year, and estate agents are busier than ever. In this month’s magazine we will be showing you how to treat your significant other with a Valentine’s day at home guide alongside some sumptious recipes for the special evening. It’s not just your partner we’re showing some love to; we also have the best treats for your pets, and for yourself, a guide to keeping mentally healthy and physically fit while spending so much time at home.
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PROPERTY NEWS
And, while you’re at home, why not treat yourself to the perfect home cinema system with our guide to the hottest tech to bring the blockbusters to you! Venture outside as the weather slowly gets warmer and we have a guide of what seeds to sow and blulbs to plant this month. Top this off with a look at the future of books with our guide to Audible and audiobooks; the history of Shrove Tuesday and finally a preview for the Six Nations. Most of all though, take care, be safe and stay positive this month. Jonathan Wheatley Editor
To the one
I love
FOOD
A huge part of the celebrations of Valentine’s Day is the role that food plays. From decadent titbits to homemade comforts, food should not be underestimated in its importance to the day as a whole. Let’s start with the morning’s offerings. Why not treat your partner to a good, old-fashioned breakfast in bed? But just because it’s breakfast, that doesn’t mean that it should be predictable. Cupid’s Tip: Why not splash out on a waffle-maker and make your partner some homemade goodies? Based on your partner’s preferences, you do know those, right? Choose between sweet and savoury, and for a more comprehensive list of waffle-themed ideas, visit ‘delish.com’ for their recommendations.
o
ROMANCE AT HOME:
DAY
one
It’s the most romantic day of the year. And what better way to celebrate than at home with your significant other
DESIGNING YOUR
DIY VALENTINE’S
Now onto the really important meal of the day - dinner. Often, Valentine’s Day dinners can come with a great amount of pressure to get the perfect table, at the perfect restaurant, at the perfect time. But this year, make sure you aren’t disappointed, and take matters into your own hands! Construct your own, personalised menu, and treat the pair of you to a meal catered exactly to your liking. ‘Goodhousekeeping.com’ offer easy-tomake recipes for a variety of cuisines, including a decadent cheese-beer fondue for fans of French/Swiss cuisine, or a wild mushroom risotto for those of the Italian persuasion. And if you want to go a step further, why not organise to cook together? As well as creating your perfect meal, this can be a great activity for couples to bond over.
EXPERIENCES
And speaking of activities, let’s look at some other ways to fill your day with that special someone. Start with getting creative and do some crafts. If you’re one of those couples that have managed to print off photos of your memories together but haven’t done anything else with them since then, then get hunting for them and design your own scrapbook of your favourite moments. Alternatively, you can look to make romance-themed practical objects. For instance, if you have unwanted mason jars, then you could use these to create votive candle holders, with the addition of only glitter and card. Or, if you happen to have firewood which is going spare, then why not cut these down, and create your own coasters? These are great ways of doing something rather unusual. However, if you don’t have a single creative bone in your body, then let’s explore some other ways of spending quality time with your other half. Nothing quite says ‘I love you’ like freshly-baked goods, so choose to go all out on the food front this year. If you want to make something which is a visual statement, then bake some Valentine’s cupcakes adorned with decadent pink and red icing, or popping candy and sprinkles if you fancy something more playful. And if you’re looking for something to complete your day with, then why not organise a movie night? Pick your favourite romantic film, get the blankets down, set the mood in your room with candles, and unwind together.
GIFTS Another great pressure of Valentine’s day is finding the perfect gift for your partner. So, to ensure that you don’t fall short on the present front, here are some thoughtful DIY ideas. If your partner is a fan of relaxation, then get some candles, and through online tutorials at ‘helloglow.co’, customise them with your initials and other heart-shaped decorations. This technique can also work with other items, such as mugs or tea towels, and is great for adding personal touches to everyday items. Or if your partner loves nothing more than to unwind after a day of life’s stresses, then make their day with some homemade bath bombs. There are plenty of online recipes to instruct you to make whatever shapes you wish, and it is a great way of adding a level of luxury to your gifting this year, whilst also using ingredients that you might already have in your cupboards.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
3
PUMP UP
THE VOLUME Does your telly pack an audio punch to match the picture quality? If not, it might be time to invest in a surround-sound system or a new soundbar
H
ome entertainment system. Three words to send a geek into overdrive and an uninformed consumer into meltdown. Sure, you’ve lashed out and bought a nice big, shiny 4K ultra high-definition TV that’s got all the bells, whistles and whatnots and can change its ambient lighting by shouting at it. Sure, the picture is fantastic, and the definition is awesome. But the sound is… well, puny.
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PROPERTY NEWS
Next, consider the features and what you will be viewing most of the time. Many modern soundbars have wireless subwoofers, Bluetooth connectivity, 4K-friendly HDMI outputs for games consoles or 4K Blu-ray player-enabled HDMI outputs. Some even support Dolby Atmos, which takes the longstanding surround-sound concept and gives it more oomph, providing big cinema sound in a smaller space. With that in mind, investigate the Sonos stable. The Beam,
It’s not a surprise Manufacturers are making televisions so thin, so lightweight something has to give, and as TVs are judged on their visual capabilities, it’s generally audio quality that is lacking. So, if you have moved into a nice new home with the acres of space you were craving, perhaps it would be wise to set aside a little of the money earmarked for Stamp Duty and invest in a decent sound
system to create the immersive experience your TV deserves. The obvious starting point is a soundbar, but before you start looking, be sure of your dimensions. They will either sit in front of the TV or just below it if wall mounted, so you don’t want to partner a bar that is so wide it overhangs the set or is so small it is dwarfed by the screen.
It’s not a surprise Manufacturers are making televisions so thin, so lightweight something has to give, and as TVs are judged on their visual capabilities, it’s generally audio quality that is lacking.
rated by many industry insiders as the company’s best soundbar yet, is small and adaptable, and packs an impressive three-dimensional sound with a surprisingly beefy bass, which more than offsets a bit of a background hiss at volume. Its spec sheet includes voice-control assistance from Amazon’s Alexa and supports the Dolby 5.1 format. The Sonos Arc, meanwhile, is fully compatible with Dolby Atmos and is the perfect partner for a 4K of more than 55ins. It uses 11 drivers to create a soundfield which puts you at the heart of the action and is nicely balanced if you just want to listen to music. Similarly, the Yamaha YSP-2700 offers a compact way to get the
full surround-sound experience into your home with the bar and wireless subwoofer providing a gutsy solution for movie buffs who will relish the 7.1ch effect. However, it does not support Dolby Atmos, unlike Sony’s HT-ST5000, which has a high feature count and makes film soundtracks totally immersive – put simply, if you want to watch Saving Private Ryan, fetch a tin-hat first. If you have deep pockets, a biggish room and a sensitive ear, go all-out on the Sennheiser Ambeo – excellent dynamics, sumptuous sound – but beware: to deliver a sound
that rich without a subwoofer means a soundbar that is 14cm tall and needs to be positioned perfectly for the best effect. Of course, you may have just moved into a barn conversion or have a vast open-plan living space you want to fill with sound. In which case, a full-blown surround speaker system is the way to go. There are obvious things to consider - such as trailing cables and whether you want to rearrange the furniture to accommodate it – before weighing up whether you want a 5.1 system (five speakers, two pairs of either floorstanding or standmount, plus one central) or a 7.2 (adding back speakers behind the main seating position, plus an extra subwoofer).
With that in mind, What Hi-Fi? named the Dali Oberon 5 5.1 Speaker Package their product of 2020 and its not hard to see why. “Lean, attractive and unfussy… are words equally apt for both the aesthetics and acoustics”, they said of a system with a full, warm sound “that brings the best out of any soundtrack”. Less bulky, yet almost as powerful, is the Q Acoustics 3050i 5.1 Cinema pack, a versatile bundle with an intense sound, while the sixth generation of Monitor Audio’s Silver series, the 200 AV12, has a clear balanced sound which is immense for both surround and stereo.
If you have deep pockets, a biggish room and a sensitive ear, go all-out on the Sennheiser Ambeo
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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THE FUTURE IS AUDIBLE The ease with which we consume digital content has changed rapidly in the past decade
A
nd this phenomenon has even reached something as physical as reading. Those who are loyal to the physicality of a novel might be sceptical about audiobooks, but there are plenty of reasons to be encouraged by this new style of literature.
THEY’RE AS EFFECTIVE AS BOOKS
A study, reported by Time, has shown that audiobooks have no negative bearing on an audience’s understanding of the material. Different participants were given the same material to listen to, or read, and when quizzed afterwards, there were no clear signs that one group had understood any less of the content. In a further study, different groups of participants either listened to, or watched blockbuster films. They found that those who listened to the audio versions had a higher heart rate and body temperature, which suggests a more intense emotional response to the material.
BOOKS STILL SELL Something reassuring for those who prefer physical ‘the real thing’, is that it doesn’t appear that audio content is causing an impact on the sales of physical books. A report claims that there are different audiences for different types of content, so the two don’t overlap too much. The report goes on to state that those who listen to audiobooks tend to be a
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PROPERTY NEWS
lot younger than those who don’t, and claims that, on average, those in their 20s or 30s are the biggest consumers of audio content. Interestingly, it also suggests that audiobooks are bringing in new audiences who would not have previously read books. So this can only be a good thing for the world of literature.
THE PERFORMANCE
With the boom that audiobooks are experiencing, they, themselves, are being immersed into popular culture. For example, audiobooks now attract A-list celebrities as narrators. For instance, Elizabeth Moss narrated The Handmaid’s Tale, and Michelle Obama provided the voice for her own memoirs. On top of this, a top publisher has stated that there are certain audiobooks which would never have been made if not for added technological capabilities. He points to Robert MacFarlane and Jackie Morris’s book The Lost Words, which is a collection of poems. As a result of the opportunities which audio content provides, the makers were able to create individual soundscapes for each poem taken from recordings in the wild.
LOVING AND BRILLIANT GIFTS FOR YOUR PET
Your pet means the world to you, show you mean the world to them too with a treat this Valentine’s Day
W
e love our pets. They listen to us and they never argue back, which, as the unconditionally loving companions they are, makes them especially peaceful to have by our sides. In fact, studies show that three in 10 adults claim that their cats and dogs are better listeners than their other halves, and that over a third of people generally prefer their pets to their partner. Furthermore, 29% claim that their cat or dog is better at snuggling than their partner, with 44% of owners even going as far as to say they prefer to cuddle up with them rather than with their significant other. So give back this Valentine’s Day!
DOGS Shock absorbent leash. A gift your dog can really benefit from, ensuring much more comfort for the animal and much less chance of your four-legged-friend having their shoulder pulled out of their socket.
RABBITS
Dog wellies. Not only will these prevent wet and muddy paws, but also act as protection against any sharp and nasty objects they might accidently step on outside.
Woven grass pet bed. Play tunnel. Heart-shaped salt licks.
Orthopaedic gel memory foam dog bed. Dogs need their beauty sleep too, and in fact require 12-14 hours of sleep each day/night, so a great bed would provide real quality of life for a dog. Top three customer-rated dog toys on Amazon: • https://tinyurl.com/y9agvpsy • https://tinyurl.com/y77ljtx5 • https://tinyurl.com/y8ohhyj2
CATS Pet tote bag. Ideal for travelling, these bags will guarantee comfort and convenience for both you and your cat, typically with an open slot for the cat’s head so they can see the world as they travel. Cat wheel (treadmill). A portion of cat breeds are of particularly high energy, so something like this would be a perfect way for your cat to get their hyperactivity out of their system. It’s also a lot of fun for your kitty! Self-cleaning cat box. Both you and your cat will enjoy not having to deal with a dirty cat box each day with this product, as all you need to do is cover the disposable litter tray, toss it, and insert a fresh one.
GUINEA PIGS AND HAMSTERS Play or digging tower, or play bridge. Climbing nature house. Exercise wheel.
Top three customer-rated cat toys on Amazon: • https://tinyurl.com/y9ka67zz • https://tinyurl.com/ya2r4cu3 • https://tinyurl.com/y9sqfne5
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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TREAT YOUR KING OR QUEEN THIS VALENTINE’S DAY Treat your partner with this spectacular Valentine’s dinner, perfect for a romantic night in!
M
ake Valentine’s day extra special with our gorgeous menu featuring a delightful starter, an impressive main course and a sumptious dessert.
STARTER – REALLY EASY CHEESE FONDUE Ingredients 125ml white wine 450g gruyère, grated 450g cheddar, grated 50ml kirtsch 1 heaped tsp cornflour small baguette, torn into chunks, to serve Method Heat the wine in a heavy-based saucepan, then add the cheese, a handful at a time, and keep stirring. When all the cheese has melted, add the kirsch, followed by the cornflour, stirring until completely smooth. Serve the pan in the middle of the table on a wooden board with the chunks of baguette for dipping.
Images for illustrative purposes only Recipes from www.bbcgoodfood.co.uk
Images for illustrative purposes only
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PROPERTY NEWS
Recipes from www.bbcgoodfood.co.uk
DESSERT – CHOCOLATE FONDANT Ingredients 50g melted butter, for brushing cocoa powder, for dusting 200g good-quality dark chocolate, chopped into small pieces 200g butter, in small pieces 200g golden caster sugar 4 eggs and 4 yolks 200g plain flour Caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream or orange sorbet, to serve
MAIN COURSE – STEAKS WITH GOULASH & SWEET POTATO FRIES Ingredients 3 tsp rapeseed oil , plus extra for the steaks 250g sweet potatoes , peeled and cut into narrow chips 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves 2 small onions , halved and sliced (190g) 1 green pepper , deseeded and diced 2 garlic cloves , sliced 1 tsp smoked paprika 85g cherry tomatoes , halved 1 tbsp tomato purée 1 tsp vegetable bouillon powder 2 x 125g fillet steaks , rubbed with a little rapeseed oil 200g bag baby spinach , wilted in a pan or the microwave Method Heat oven to 240C/220C fan/gas 7 and put a wire rack on top of a baking tray. Toss the sweet potatoes and thyme with 2 tsp oil in a bowl, then scatter them over the rack and set aside until ready to cook. Heat 1 tsp oil in a non-stick pan, add the onions, cover the pan and leave to cook for 5 mins. Take off the lid and stir – they should be a little charred now. Stir in the green pepper and garlic, cover the pan and cook for 5 mins more. Put the potatoes in the oven and bake for 15 mins. While the potatoes are cooking, stir the paprika into the onions and peppers, pour in 150ml water and stir in the cherry tomatoes, tomato purée and bouillon. Cover and simmer for 10 mins. Pan-fry the steak in a hot, non-stick pan for 2-3 mins each side depending on their thickness. Rest for 5 mins. Spoon the goulash sauce onto plates and top with the beef. Serve the chips and spinach alongside.
Method First get your moulds ready. Using upward strokes, heavily brush melted butter (use 50g in total) all over the inside of the pudding mould. Place the mould in the fridge or freezer. Brush more melted butter over the chilled butter, then add a good spoonful of cocoa powder into the mould. Tip the mould so the powder completely coats the butter. Tap any excess cocoa back into the jar, then repeat with the next mould. Place a bowl over a pan of barely simmering water, then slowly melt 200g good-quality dark chocolate and 200g butter, both chopped into small pieces, together. Remove the bowl from the heat and stir until smooth. Leave to cool for about 10 mins. In a separate bowl whisk 4 eggs and 4 egg yolks together with 200g golden caster sugar until thick and pale and the whisk leaves a trail; use an electric whisk if you want. Sift 200g plain flour into the eggs, then beat together. Pour the melted chocolate into the egg mixture in thirds, beating well between each addition, until all the chocolate is added and the mixture is completely combined to a loose cake batter. Tip the fondant batter into a jug, then evenly divide between the moulds. The fondants can now be frozen for up to a month and cooked from frozen. Chill for at least 20 mins or up to the night before. To bake from frozen, simply carry on as stated, adding 5 mins more to the cooking time. Heat oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. Place the fondants on a baking tray, then cook for 10-12 mins until the tops have formed a crust and they are starting to come away from the sides of their moulds. Remove from the oven, then leave to sit for 1 min before turning out. Loosen the fondants by moving the tops very gently so they come away from the sides, easing them out of the moulds. Tip each fondant slightly onto your hand so you know it has come away, then tip back into the mould ready to plate up. Serve with a squeeze of caramel sauce and a scoop of ice cream.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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POSITIVE
VIBES Mental health experts say there are several things we can do to give ourselves a lift at this difficult time so here is our guide to keep your spirit’s lifted
A
nd so, here we are again. Lockdowns are fast becoming the norm for our COVID-crippled communities, but unlike before there’s no summer, no Christmas on which to focus. Lockdown 3.0 wan announced in the gloom and cold of winter - a season that can be tough for many under normal circumstances – and the respite of warmer days and lighter evenings seems a long way off. However, there are many things we can do to make sure we reach the promised land of spring in good shape.
GET OUT
Any outdoor activity at this time of year may seem a bit daunting, but doctors agree it is an ideal way to boost your mood. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins into the bloodstream – producing a feeling of well-being – as well as increasing electrical activity in the emotionprocessing areas of the brain, preventing the risk of anxiety and depression. It also produces a protein crucial to brain health, so even a short period of exercise which exerts the body, such as a
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PROPERTY NEWS
brisk walk or a cycle ride, will be beneficial. Dr Brendon Stubbs, from King’s College, London, says: “Think of it as brain fertiliser – it helps parts of your brain regenerate.”
DON’T THINK ABOUT IT
People often dwell on problems or difficulties, allowing negative thoughts to dog their lives. But while it’s normal to worry, many fears never materialise. The key is to shift focus from worries to practical problemsolving, and Prof Jennifer Wild, from Oxford University, says: “If you’ve been worrying about a problem for 30 minutes or more without coming up with a plan of action, it’s time to stop.” Exercise is a good way to break those trains of thought. While it’s perfectly normal to worry, humans have, over time, become highly tuned to negativity and danger. “It’s over-encoded in our brains,” says Prof Wild. “You can make yourself much calmer if you recognise you are overthinking. Stop and focus on facts.”
NEW GOALS
Setting a new target, whether it be something as grand as learning a new language or trying a new recipe, can be beneficial. Learning new things is generally how we acquire self-worth and keeps us motivated. Stepping outside your comfort zone helps you to focus and brings a sense of control.
GO FOR IT
Don’t think twice about doinsomething, even if conditions suggest you’re not going to get the best results, says Olivia Remes, from Cambridge University.
“Novelty is fundamentally rewarding,” says Dr Dean Burnett, a leading neuroscientist. She says: “Our inner voice of criticism stops us “Learning to do new things is frequently how we doing worthwhile things, so acquire self-worth. Goaljump straight into action. Do motivated behaviour is one things and accept they People often dwell on of the most fundamental might initially be done badly problems or difficulties, ways we operate.” – most of the time, the
IT’S GOOD TO TALK
allowing negative thoughts to dog their lives. But while it’s normal to worry, many fears never materialise
results are not that bad and they’re almost always better than doing nothing.”
Maximise the little social contact that is available. Humans are social creatures, so isolated people are more likely to focus on themselves, going over small problems in their heads until they become issues.
That way, she believes, we can encourage ourselves to be optimistic and accept life’s not all down to things we can’t control.
“We’re not really designed to be on our own. We feel better with social contact,” says Prof Emerita Elizabeth Kuipers, of King’s College, London. “Isolated people are more likely to focus on themselves and that can make things worse.” Talking things through can help reframe problems, and if lockdown means you cannot do that in person, make that phone call or arrange to talk online.
She also recommends writing down three things a day which we are grateful about, forcing ourselves to focus on what’s gone well and why. This stimulates the left-hand side of the brain which is associated with positivity, and she concludes: “Emotions are contagious – steer yourself away from negative, miserable people who are constantly complaining because you could be come one of them.”
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
11
WHAT IS
SHROVE
TUESDAY?
WHAT IS IT?
WHERE DOES IT COME FROM?
WHAT HAPPENS?
To put it simply, Shrove Tuesday is the last day before Ash Wednesday. Ash Wednesday marks the first day of Lent - an event, which takes place over a period of forty days, replicating the forty days of hardship when Jesus was stranded in the desert. The religious period is observed by many Christians, including Anglicans, Lutherans, Methodists and Roman Catholics.
The meaning of the word ‘Shrove’, comes from the past tense of the verb ‘to shrive’, which means to give absolution after hearing confession. Therefore Shrove Tuesday is the last day to make confession before the period of Lent. The alternative name to Shrove Tuesday, and perhaps the more common title nowadays, is ‘Pancake Day’.
Traditionally, Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent, which is associated with self-denial and abstinence. Therefore, Shrove Tuesday is treated as the last day to celebrate and indulge before this period. As produce such as eggs, fat, and milk were traditionally foods which could not be eaten during the period of Lent, pancakes became a suitable snack to make out of the leftover foodstuffs so that food did not go to waste.
So, Shrove Tuesday is known as the last day to clean the soul before the self-restriction of Lent begins. Historically, people would go to church in order to be repented for their sins.
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The Christian period of Lent will soon be among us. And with Lent, comes Shrove Tuesday. But what is it? Where does it come from? And what happens?
PROPERTY NEWS
This name supposedly originated from a story from Olney in Buckinghamshire when, in 1445, a woman who was making pancakes heard the church bells and ran out of her house with a frying pan in hand. This started the tradition of a pancake race in the town, which has been an annual event ever since.
The earliest pancake recipe in England dates back to the 15th century, so it could be possible that Christians have been successfully (or unsuccessfully) flipping their pancakes, and competing in pancake races for over six hundred years.
& GLORY
HOPE
The Six Nations is back with England keen to maintain momentum as the countdown to France 2023 continues
SCHEDULED FIXTURES (ALL TIMES GMT) February 6 Italy v France (2.15pm) England v Scotland (4.45pm)
W
ith the 2023 Rugby World Cup looming ever larger on the horizon, England and the rest of the home nations will take another significant step on the road to the sport’s showpiece event in France when the Guinness Six Nations Championship is scheduled to resume this month.
However, it will be interesting to see how the England coach responds to the rising threat from across the channel and whether he adapts his “he who kicks most, wins most” philosophy. It makes Le Crunch on the penultimate weekend of the Six Nations on March 13 at Twickenham the pivotal game of the championship.
The draw for the pool stages in early December merely whetted the appetite for rugby union’s major showpiece after a hectic autumn in which England won the sport’s oldest and newest competitions – beating France on points difference in last year’s interrupted Six Nations, and then beating the same opposition in the final of the hastilyconvened Autumn Nations Cup.
Before then, England open the Northern Hemisphere’s major tournament with the home Calcutta Cup showdown against Scotland on February 6 before another Twickenham tie against perennial whipping boys Italy.
And while it may look as if Eddie Jones’ team had ended their international season on a high in the probably one-off cup tournament, the truth paints a different picture, England labouring to beat a side of emerging talent and youth team players thanks to an equalising try in the last minute and a penalty in the sudden-death period.
And then the journey gets a tad tougher. Matchweek three sends them to Cardiff to face Wales, never an easy place to go and likely to be more hostile if the Welsh have not fired in their preceding games against Ireland or Scotland. From there, it’s the back-to-back run-in against France and Ireland at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, where the sponsors’ black velvet will flow irrespective of who has won.
February 7 Wales v Ireland (3pm) February 13 England v Italy (2.15pm) Scotland v Wales (4.45pm) February 14 Ireland v France (3pm) February 27 Italy v Ireland (2.15pm), Wales v England (4.45pm) February 28 France v Scotland (3pm) March 13 Italy v Wales (2.15pm), England v France (4.45pm) March 14 Scotland v Ireland (3pm) March 20 Scotland v Italy (2.15pm) Ireland v England (4.45pm) France v Wales (8pm)
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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SOWING THE
SEEDS OF
LOVE
The dark days of winter may finally be behind us, so it’s time to prepare the ground for summer blooms and crops
A
s the days grow longer, gardeners will be making their plans for the spring, preparing their seeds for both flower and vegetable plots.
And even if the weather does not play ball and the ground is still cold, much can be done - particularly if you have a greenhouse or conservatory - to kickstart the growing season. If conditions allow and the soil is frost free, gently dig over and prepare the area you have earmarked for planting. This will expose soil pests to cold nighttime temperatures and bird predators, giving new plants a better chance to prosper and, if you have moved into a new house, will help identify whether you have inherited a light or heavy soil. Obviously, a stodgy, clay-based soil will need longer to warm, and this will affect planting plans. But if you discover a light, sandy mixture and live in a mild part of the country you can crack on – after weeding and allowing the soil to settle – by covering the area with clear polythene, cloches or fleece to warm the ground before sowing.
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PROPERTY NEWS
Once a crop rotation has been formalised, then you can sow broad beans, carrots, parsnips, early varieties of beetroot, salad onions, lettuces, radishes, spinach and summer cabbages under the covers. And then it’s back indoors again. Experienced veg growers will be keen to chit their seed potato tubers as soon as they have them. Novices may be baffled by the term, but it simply means encouraging the seed potatoes to grow before they are planted out, generally about six weeks after they have been arranged, blunt end up, in trays or old eggboxes, and allowed to sprout. Peas can also be started off in a heated greenhouse by using upturned and discarded – but clean – drainpipes with holes drilled in the bottom for good drainage, while cucumber seeds can be sown in a propagator, placing them on their sides at a depth of 1cm in a 7.5cm pot of free-draining compost.
If, however, your greenhouse isn’t heated wait a few weeks until March – and the same goes for tomatoes, which should germinate within two weeks in a propagator or on a sunny windowsill as long as the seed compost is kept moist. Even though it is very hardy, kale needs to be started indoors, where they can be sown in modules or 7cm pots with two or three seeds per module before thinning out to leave the healthiest seedling. For those who prefer colour to crops, mid to late February can also be a busy period. Now is the time to start off summer bedding, such as lobelia and Impatiens (Busy Lizzies), in propagators, giving them a head start before are big enough to be planted out or in hanging baskets. Sweet peas are probably one of the easiest – and most fragrant - summer flowering plants to grow, particularly when given a good start in a biodegradable pot on a sunny windowsill. Once established, they can be relocated to the garden when the weather turns milder without having to be
removed from their containers, which could damage fragile roots. Cosmos are similarly easy to grow and look great in borders or in a meadow where the single-flowered varieties, such as Fizzy Pink, attract pollinators. These annuals need light to germinate, so sow on top of seed compost in a tray then prick out when large enough to handle. Salvias, on the other hand, need to be sown on a bed of seed compost and then covered with a fine layer of compost which must be kept moist and placed in a light, warm spot. They can be planted out in the spring where they will add structure and height to borders and containers. However, be warned – low light levels and stuffy conditions can encourage what horticulturists call ‘damping off’, a fungal disease that can sweep through trays of seedlings. It can be easily prevented by adding perlite, an amorphous volcanic glass which will keep soil loose and light; watering pots from below; and opening propagator vents during the day.
Cosmos are easy to grow and look great in borders or in a meadow where the singleflowered varieties, such as Fizzy Pink, attract pollinators.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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Petersfield, Chineham, Basingstoke
ÂŁ350,000
LODDON PROPERTIES - are delighted to offer this immaculately presented, three bedroom semi detached house in a sought after cul de sac location within Chineham. Comprising entrance porch, dual aspect, bright, generous living/dining room with feature fireplace and patio doors to the garden, sleek, modern kitchen with built in oven, hob and cookerhood. Upstairs there are three bedrooms, one benefiting from a wall of built in wardrobes and a modern three piece shower room with large curved shower cubicle, vanity sink and w.c. Outside to the front there is a block bricked driveway leading to a garage, a beautifully manicured garden with a selection of shrubs, flower borders and lawn with a path leading to the side access gate. The rear garden again is an immaculate delight, with a patio that runs around the side of the property under an ivy covered pergola with seating area, large lawn area, mature shrubs and borders and fully enclosed with panel fencing.
Aviemore Drive, Oakley Offers Over ÂŁ640,000
LODDON PROPERTIES bring to the market this well appointed, four bedroom, detached family home tucked away in a quiet cul-de-sac in the village of Oakley. You are greeted by spacious entrance hall, a downstairs cloakroom, dining room, dual aspect living room, study, kitchen and utility with rear door leading to the garden. The double garage has been converted into an impressively sized cinema room for cosy movie nights in. Sliding doors lead from the living room to the light conservatory and French Doors lead out to the garden. This property boasts one of the largest plots in the cul-de-sac and has both paved, decked and lawn areas and the garden wraps around to the side of the house as well as the rear. Upstairs consists of the family bathroom, four bedrooms complete with built in wardrobes or a cupboard and the master bedroom is hosted by spacious en-suite shower room. Both bathrooms are less than a year old. To the front of the property is the front garden and a large driveway with space to park multiple cars as well as the attached carport.
info@loddonproperties.com
01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Jefferson Road, Basingstoke
ÂŁ250,000
LODDON PROPERTIES are delighted to offer to the market this beautifully presented, two bedroom home. Situated a short walk from local amenities, the ground floor accommodation on offer comprises of light and airy entrance hall, large kitchen/diner, well proportioned living room with French doors leading to the garden, a fully fitted bathroom and a double bedroom. Climbing the staircase to a galleried landing, you are greeted by the impressive, 19 foot master bedroom, storage cupboard and a well decorated, fully fitted bathroom containing bath with shower over. To rear of the property there is a private enclosed garden with both patio and lawned areas. The property has a small, paved front garden and there is ample parking close by.
Ketelbey Rise, Basingstoke ÂŁ212,500
LODDON PROPERTIES is delighted to bring to the market this one bedroom, end of terrace bungalow. Situated in at the end of the road in the sought after location of Old Hatch Warren. The accommodation consists of a fully fitted kitchen, double bedroom with built in wardrobes, bathroom containing bath with shower over, living room and conservatory which has a feature fireplace. French doors lead from the conservatory to the private enclosed garden which boasts both patio and lawn areas. This property also benefits from side access to the front of the property where there is a front lawn with shrubs and driveway parking.
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Apple Way, Old Basing
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LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to bring to the market this generous four bedroom, detached family home in a sought after road in the village of Old Basing. The accommodation consists of spacious hallway, downstairs cloakroom, kitchen, separate dining room and large living room with a feature bowed bay window. Upstairs, you are greeted by three great sized double bedrooms, a single bedroom and an exceptionally spacious bathroom. The master bedroom has built in cupboards over the stairs. To the front of the property is a driveway and a single garage. This property boasts a good sized corner plot and has a fully enclosed private garden with access on two sides. This property is set within a beautiful village close to all local amenities with great transport links.
Belvedere Gardens, Chineham
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ÂŁ575,000
LODDON PROPERTIES is proud to present this immaculate four/five bedroom detached family home. Set in a sought after cul-de-sac in Chineham, the ground floor accommodation comprises of a spacious hallway, dual aspect living room, modern, fully fitted kitchen with large breakfast bar and dining area leading to a spacious and bright conservatory. A utility room, downstairs cloakroom and a spacious family room/fifth bedroom completes the ground floor accommodation. The second floor benefits from three great sized bedrooms, two of which boast built in wardrobes and the master benefiting from a modern en-suite shower room. In addition, there is a single bedroom and the family bathroom which consists of corner bath & separate walk-in shower. The property benefits from a double garage and driveway parking for multiple cars, as well as a private, enclosed rear garden. The garden is laid mainly to lawn with the bonus of a patio area and side access on both sides.
info@loddonproperties.com
01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
The Hedgerows, Lychpit
ÂŁ350,000
NO CHAIN!!! LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to offer this delightful three bedroom, semi-detached property to the market. The downstairs accommodation comprises of fully fitted kitchen with breakfast bar, cloakroom, large living room with French doors in to the garden, separate dining area, once again with French doors to the garden and a family room. Outside at the back you will find a sunny, private enclosed garden with decking, the rest is laid to lawn and has a storage shed. Upstairs, you will find three good sized bedrooms with two boasting built in cupboards, an airing cupboard and the family bathroom.
Marlowe Close, Popley, Basingstoke
ÂŁ167,500
*40% SHARED OWNERSHIP OR FULL OWNERSHIP OPTIONS AVAILABLE* LODDON PROPERTIES is delighted to bring to the market this spacious two bedroom, second floor apartment. The accommodation comprises of large entrance hall leading to an open plan living space with feature electric fire and dual aspect, double glazed windows. The rest of the accommodation comprises of two good sized bedrooms with built in wardrobes to the master and a family bathroom with bath and shower over. Situated in close proximity to Basingstoke town centre, offering good links to both the M3 and A33 as well as Basingstoke Mainline railway station. Further local amenities can be found in Chineham Shopping Centre.
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Blackwater Close, Basingstoke £225,000
Elvetham Rise, Chineham £275,000
NO CHAIN!! LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to bring to market this three bedroom, terraced house. The ground floor benefits from entrance hall, large lounge/diner and kitchen with access to the enclosed garden. The upstairs comprises of 2 double bedrooms, a further single bedroom and the family bathroom/shower room. The property does need work, a new kitchen as well as decoration throughout, however it offers fantastic potential for a growing family or indeed a rental investor.
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer to the market this two bedroom, terraced house. The property features entrance hall, fully fitted kitchen, good size lounge/dining room with French doors opening to the fantastic sized conservatory which boasts underfloor heating. Upstairs comprising of one double bedroom, one single bedroom and family bathroom, both benefiting from built in wardrobes. Outside there is allocated parking to the back and a fully enclosed gravel rear garden with large shed and side access.
Longacre Rise, Basingstoke £795 PCM
Vernham Mews, Basingstoke £950 PCM
LODDON PROPERTIES are proud to offer this first floor refurbished apartment to the rental market. This show home condition executive apartment comprises of a large double bedroom, a modern family bathroom with shower over bath and a large open plan lounge/kitchen/diner and the advantage of allocated parking. This property includes a full redecoration, new flooring throughout, a new modern fully integrated kitchen including fridge/freezer, dishwasher, gas hob and oven/ grill. Further to this the bathroom has been refurbished with new shower over bath and this apartment has all new LED down lighting.
LODDON PROPERTIES are proud to present this fantastic two bedroom, end terraced house to the rental market. Benefiting from being freshly redecorated, the property comprises of large and spacious living room, additional conservatory, kitchen with appliances including oven, hob, extractor fan, fridge/freezer and washing machine. Upstairs, there is one good size double bedroom with multiple built in wardrobes and one single bedroom and modern fitted family bathroom with shower over bath. Outside there is a private enclosed garden with side access which leads to the parking in front for multiple vehicles.
info@loddonproperties.com
01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Elderberry Bank, Basingstoke £795 PCM
The Danes, Basingstoke £595 PCM
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer this well presented one bedroom ground floor maisonette to the rental market. The accommodation comprises of a large double bedroom, fitted Kitchen with appliances including newly fitted slimline dishwasher and living room. The property also benefits from having UPVC double glazing, Gas Central Heating, front garden with an allocated parking space. This property is being fully redecorated prior to the new tenancy commencing.
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to bring this One Bedroom/Studio apartment to the rental market. This property is located just a stones throw from Basingstoke Festival Place. This first floor apartment has been newly refurbished throughout including new modern kitchen, full redecoration and new carpets. This property has a modern kitchen, bathroom with shower over bath and a large living area/ bedroom which benefits from a Juliet balcony. This property also has Allocated parking which is located to the rear of the block. Fully double glazed and with gas central heating.
Downham Court, Reading £850 PCM
Winterthur Way, Basingstoke £895 PCM
LODDON PROPERTIES are delighted to bring to the rental market this spacious two bedroom, ground floor apartment situated close to the heart of Reading. The accommodation comprises of entrance hall with multiple storage cupboards, fully fitted kitchen including all white goods, shower room, a large double bedroom, single bedroom and a large lounge/diner. The lounge has a feature electric fire for that additional homely feel. This property also benefits from off-street parking space and a large, communal front lawn.
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to present this fantastic two bedroom, top floor apartment to the rental market. Situated a 5 minute walk from Basingstoke Train Station and Festival Place, the property offers two good sized bedrooms with the master benefiting from built in wardrobes and an en-suite shower room, family bathroom containing bath with shower over and a large open plan kitchen/ lounge/diner with its own balcony and exceptional views out. The kitchen comes complete with all built in appliances.
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LODDON PROPERTIES are proud to present this 10th floor, one double bedroom apartment located in the centre of Basingstoke to the rental market. Boasting excellent East facing views, this property comprises of a bright and airy lounge/diner, open plan kitchen with fully integrated appliances including dishwasher, double bedroom with built in sliding wardrobe and bathroom with shower over bath. Finished to a very high modern standard throughout, the property is offered on an unfurnished basis.
LODDON PROPERTIES are proud to offer this 2 double bedroom house to the rental market. This home provides excellent living accommodation consisting of a recently fitted modern kitchen with all white goods included, a large lounge/diner with patio doors to a low maintenance gravelled rear private enclosed garden. Upstairs has two double bedrooms both benefitting from fitted wardrobes and a family bathroom. This home further benefits from allocated parking, gas central heating and double glazing.
Netherfield Place, Basingstoke £750 PCM
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to present to the rental market this 3 double bedroom house. On approach this property can be accessed via the front or the back with ample parking to the rear of the property. Downstairs this home offers a porch leading to a wide and light hallway which gives access to the large spacious lounge and the beautifully fully fitted modern kitchen/diner with breakfast bar. The dining area leads to the newly downstairs cloakroom and has double patio doors to the rear private enclosed garden.
LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to offer this one double bedroom apartment to the rental market . The apartment offers an open plan kitchen/living/dining space with a feature Juliet balcony and a breakfast bar, a large double bedroom with multiple in built wardrobes and bathroom containing bath with shower over. Further benefits of this property include lift access to all floors, double glazing, gas central heating and allocated parking with access to additional visitors spaces.
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Keats Close, Basingstoke £1,200 PCM
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Flaxfield Court, Basingstoke £950 PCM
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Churchill Place, Basingstoke £800 PCM
info@loddonproperties.com
01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ
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CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
LODDON PROPERTIES is delighted to bring to the market this charming, three bedroom family home in a sought after cul-de-sac in Chineham. The ground floor accommodation comprises of entrance porch, downstairs cloakroom, spacious living room with arch leading to a separate dining area and a fully fitted kitchen. The dining area has a trifold doors that open out to the private enclosed garden, this really helps to aid the flow of the property and when open brings the outside in.
LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to present to the market this rarely available, well presented two bedroom semi-detached property. Situated on a corner plot this home offers well balanced accommodation comprising; Entrance hall, generous Living/ dining room, with doors to garden and fitted kitchen. Upstairs, there are two double bedrooms and a family bathroom with power shower. The property also benefits from having an attached garage with driveway parking and a large, secluded rear garden, with a summer house/home office/gym.
Churchill Place, Basingstoke £895 PCM
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer this 3 bedroom semi-detached town house situated in a quiet cul-de-sac location in CHINEHAM. This family home benefits from a downstairs cloakroom, garage and separate utility room on the lower floor. On the first floor there is a front aspect lounge and large modern kitchen/diner with all white goods included. On the top floor there is a family bathroom and 3 bedrooms, with the master bedroom benefiting from a 3 piece en-suite. Outside the property has a low maintenance private enclosed rear garden and garage with electric rolling door and with driveway parking for multiple cars.
LODDON PROPERTIES proudly present this larger sized FURNISHED one bedroom apartment in Churchill Place to the rental market located on the 2nd Floor. Comprising of a large and spacious living area, open plan kitchen with integrated appliances including washer/dryer, dishwasher and microwave/ oven/grill, largest double bedroom with built in sliding wardrobes and family bathroom with shower over bath. The furnishings include Sofa, Coffee table, TV stand, 4 seater modern dining table, floor standing lounge lamp, double bed with mattress, two side tables complete with lamps and a 4 drawer unit.
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Richards Field, Chineham £1,300 PCM
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Paterson Close, Kempshott Rise £279,000
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Merryfield, Chineham, Basingstoke Offers Over £329,000
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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.
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!
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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.
loddonproperties.com
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
info@loddonproperties.com
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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