MAY 2017 ISSUE 28
www.winchestertoday.co.uk
GROWTH SUCCESS BRINGS HEADACHE FOR SCOUTS More than 300 potential Cubs and Scouts now on waiting list despite increase in places By KEVIN GOVER News Editor APRIL’S census for the Scout Association has shown mixed results for Winchester Scouts. Over the past 4 years, the 12 Scout Groups that comprise Winchester Scouts have increased the number of places for young people by an impressive 50% from 782 to 1,177. Over the same period the increase in adult volunteers has been a staggering 155% - up from 176 to 450. As a consequence, the number of young people and adults who potentially want to join the Cubs and Scouts is now 326 - that’s enough effectively to fill TEN Cub packs - and second only in size of the waiting list to the New Forest. Even Southampton only has 50 on the waiting list. Lead Volunteer for Winchester, Stephen Parker, says they’re stuck in ways that possibly were not so much of a problem before: “The fun, challenge and life-changing adventure of Scouting is more popular today than ever before, with 21 boys and girls joining the Movement each day.
“ Our biggest challenge is finding premises” “Our biggest challenge in Winchester is finding premises to open up more Groups, in order to keep up with this high demand. Together, with new adventure headquarters and leaders, we can reduce the waiting list of young people eager to taste the thrill of Scouting.” The members in Hampshire say that Scouting today is more about pursuing adventure and there is plenty going on in that department: “At weekly group meetings Scouts can take part in activities
ranging from cooking, photography and computing to paragliding, rock climbing and water skiing; as well as the traditional hiking and camping.” Hampshire Scouting says getting involved is more relevant today than ever because it gives young people the opportunity to experience things they otherwise would not have the opportunity to do. This includes challenging themselves with exciting activities and adventures, meeting new friends throughout the world, and creating a real difference in their communities. “We provide over 200 activities for young people to get involved in, most of which are not offered through schools and can be expensive if done individually.” On a positive note Winchester Scouts won the award for highest growth over the past 3 years. Chris Floyd, Assistant District Commissioner (Scouts) and Tom Fisher, Jäger Network, travelled to Scout Summit17 at Warwick University to receive the Award from Steve Backshall, the BBC Presenter, and other Commissioners.
YOUNG GARDENERS BLOSSOM
Welcome boost keeps 4-yearold safe page 3
Don’t mess with this lot! page 7
GREEN fingered pupils at Western CofE Primary School in Winchester have been given a helping hand from CALA Homes. The housebuilder has provided the school with a donation of gardening equipment and accessories in support of National Gardening Week.
continued on page 3 ➜
Pictured left: Headteacher Peter Burbridge, Deputy Headteacher Karen Luke and children from Western CofE Primary School with their new gardening equipment.
An honour and a privilege page 10
2 winchestertoday.co.uk
news
May 2017
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
H
ere we are then, Easter has gone and we’re into May, welcoming the beautiful spring sunshine into Winchester, summer’s just around the corner… ha! Who am I kidding? As I write this on Thursday just before the Bank Holiday Monday, it’s pouring down with rain outside, the day before yesterday it was snowing here in Winchester - and the weather forecast suggests at least half of the next six days ahead will bring rain. And it will be warmer in Norway. Welcome to spring in England!
ABOUT US winchestertoday est 2012
n EDITOR-IN-CHIEF • Kevin Gover kevin@winchestertoday.co.uk n CONTRIBUTORS • David Cradduck • Rachel Gover • John Ellery • Adrian Scott • Beccy Conway • Gavin Harris • Dilyara Gover • Katie Chappell • Charlie Osman • Keri Jones • Freya Storey • Michael Arthur n LAYOUT DESIGN • Jon Heal Winchester Today Media Partner to Winchester Short Film Festival
winchestertoday
Charity Partner - supporting Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance until December 2020.
winchestertoday Suite 123 80 High Street Winchester SO23 9AT
news@winchestertoday.co.uk This digital edition of Winchester Today has been produced entirely by the commitment of our friends through crowdfunder.co.uk - a huge ‘Thank You’ to everyone involved
I
n April we received the national results of the Scout Association census. Yet again, news of not enough leaders and too many young people wanting to join. At first, I thought it was just the same age-old problems which I’m sure we had even in the 60s. But digging a bit deeper, figures show that the situation is far worse here in Winchester. Here we have the additional problem of not having enough premises. It’s left me feeling sad. Why? Because I loved my time in the cubs, scouts and venture scouts. It’s a GREAT organisation, full of fun. I can honestly say that we didn’t do archery like this chap in the picture. But we did do rifle shooting - I went to Liechtenstein with the scouts when I was just 11, and then to Austria and Switzerland before the age of 15. Great camping in Scotland when I was 17. To think that there are more than 300 young people right now in the Winchester area that cannot enjoy the same fun that I had - yes, more than 300! I intend to do something about it - and I hope you will too.
F
inally, all of us here would like to wish the 2016/17 Mayor of Winchester a huge “Thank You” as she comes to the end of her term in office. Cllr Jane Rutter has been a breath of fresh air over the past year. Nothing has been too much trouble, even for us. The office of Mayor has been brought into the 21st Century with regular and enthusiastic updates on Twitter and social media. She will be missed..
Kevin Gover
May 2017
news
winchestertoday.co.uk 3
Buggy boost to keep Winchester four-year-old safe Specialist equipment helps prevent Matthew putting himself in danger FOUR-YEAR-OLD Matthew Guite from Winchester is getting out and about in safety thanks to the donation of a special-needs buggy from Newlife the Charity for Disabled Children, working in partnership with Marks and Spencer. Matthew has poor muscle tone and sensory processing difficulties. This means that he often trips and falls and can become overwhelmed by the world around him. He needs a buggy with a five-point harness to keep him safe – but there is nothing large enough available on the mainstream market. Mum Melanie had a special-needs buggy on loan from Matthew’s nursery, but it was needed for another child. Melanie told us more about the issues involved: “Matthew has no awareness of danger so he will run off if
something interests him, regardless of his environment. He is very good at working things out, so a regular safety harness would not keep him secure – however the specialist buggy has a five-point harness that he can’t undo. “Often when we are out – even somewhere as everyday as the supermarket – Matthew can have a
“ Equipment really can transform lives”
meltdown, so having a buggy where he can feel enclosed and distanced from what is going on around him helps him calm down and cope with everyday life.” With no funding available from local statutory services and the buggy costing £815, Matthew’s parents turned to Newlife charity for help. Newlife is the UK’s largest charity provider of specialist equipment for children with disabilities and terminal illness. A partnership between Newlife and Marks & Spencer has now provided the equipment. Jacquie Leonard is Community Programme Manager at Marks & Spencer: “Our partnership with Newlife is not only great for the environment but it also helps to improve the lives of disabled children by providing much-needed specialist equipment. We are delighted to be able to support such a vital charity.” Sheila Brown OBE is the chief
executive of Newlife charity: “Our partnership with M&S benefits hundreds of children and their families. It is very encouraging to see the efforts of M&S in helping to improve the lives of disabled and terminally ill children within the local community and across the UK. Equipment that costs hundreds to several thousands of pounds really can transform lives. We are very grateful to everyone involved and would encourage other groups and individuals to keep fundraising to help us make a difference.” Newlife has helped provide £697,335 of equipment for 460 under-19s in Hampshire. Right now, the charity is currently working with another 13 families in the county with equipment needs totalling £15,493. To find out more about how Newlife supports families in Hampshire go to: newlifecharity.co.uk/ hampshire
Pic of the Month You can probably smell them before you see them... but thankfully smell-o-vision hasn’t been invented for online purposes yet. So, let’s celebrate how the golden yellow shines through instead. David Cradduck took this for us last month near Cheriton.
➜ contined from page 1
Pupils at Western CofE Primary School in Winchester are pictured with some vital ingredients to help make their gardens bloom. They’ve been helped out by CALA Homes, with the housebuilder providing the school with a donation of gardening equipment and accessories in support of the recent National Gardening Week. As well as gardening tools including spades, trowels, rakes, watering cans and gloves; the school also received an insect sculpture hotel and wildlife
attracting seeds to encourage wildlife into the school gardens. Peter Burbridge is Headteacher at Western CofE Primary School: “We are thrilled with this kind donation from CALA Homes, which is a great way to get the children more involved in gardening. “Children can learn new skills, have fun and develop self-confidence by spending time in the garden which is something we actively encourage. “This new equipment will help get the children engaged with the school
gardens as well as create a more attractive environment for everyone to enjoy.” National Gardening Week was launched six years ago by the RHS and since then has grown into the country’s biggest celebration of gardening. This year’s theme focused on inspiring new gardeners to get involved in growing plants and flowers. CALA Homes is currently involved with the Kings Barton development located on the northern edge of Winchester.
news
4 winchestertoday.co.uk
May 2017
Austen Celebrated Austen 200 WELL, we all knew that Hampshire’s Jane Austen was going to be the face of the new £10 note - but now we know when we can get first sight of it! The Bank of England says that on 18 July the Bank will mark the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s death, by unveiling the new £10 note featuring the renowned writer. The event will take place at Winchester Cathedral, where Austen was buried in 1817. At a press conference at Chawton House on 24 July 2013, Bank of England Governor, Mark Carney, confirmed that Jane Austen would appear on a forthcoming Bank of England banknote: the next
new character following Sir Winston Churchill. The Governor says Jane Austen certainly merits a place in the select group of historical figures to appear on our banknotes: “Her novels have an enduring and universal appeal and she is recognised as one of the greatest writers in English literature. “As Austen joins Adam Smith, Boulton and Watt, and in Churchill, our notes will celebrate a diverse range of individuals who have contributed in a wide range of fields.” The Austen note will be issued as a £10 note printed on polymer in September 2017.
Features of the design on the reverse of the Jane Austen note will include: • The quote – “I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading!” from Pride and Prejudice (Miss Bingley, Chapter XI). • Portrait of Jane Austen. Commissioned by James Edward Austen Leigh (Jane Austen’s nephew) in 1870, adapted from an original sketch of Jane Austen drawn by her sister, Cassandra Austen. • An illustration of Miss Elizabeth Bennet undertaking “The examination of all the letters which Jane had written to her”– from a drawing by Isabel Bishop (1902-1988). • The image of Godmersham Park. Godmersham was home of Edward Austen Knight, Jane Austen’s brother. Jane Austen visited the house often and it is believed that it was the inspiration for a number of her novels. • Jane Austen’s writing table – the central design in the background is inspired by the 12 sided writing table, and writing quills, used by Jane Austen at Chawton Cottage.
Museum launches community story quilt project to mark Jane Austen celebrations JANE Austen’s House Museum in Hampshire has launched a community story quilt project inspired by the patchwork coverlet made by Jane, her mother and sister, on display in the Museum following recent conservation. The Museum in the village of Chawton, was Austen’s home for the last eight years of her life and the place in which she wrote or revised all her novels. Funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund has allowed the Museum to launch the collaborative project as part of its bicentenary commemorations. Throughout this special project, the Museum will be working with a diverse range of community groups in the production of the quilt. Each individual quilt block will be designed and created by representatives from over forty community groups worldwide, including groups in North America, Australia and Brazil as well as closer to home in the village of Chawton. Each block will explore a different theme, which when combined, will form a patchwork of stories narrating Jane Austen’s life. The Museum has recruited Brighton based quilt designer and freelance editor Elizabeth Betts as Quilt Designer and Facilitator, overseeing the final construction of sixty individually created quilt blocks: “Since my teenage years Jane Austen has been one of my favourite writers, and so working on a project inspired by the coverlet she made with her mother and sister is a huge privilege. “As well as being a tribute to the
“ We think Jane would have loved this project”
original coverlet, the community quilt will be taking inspiration from various aspects of her life and writing. “We have quilters, embroiderers and Jane Austen enthusiasts from as far afield as Australia and Brazil contributing towards the quilt, and I look forward to us all working together.” Lucy Bailey is Heritage Activities Project Manager: “We are delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund are supporting the Museum during this special commemorative year, allowing us to produce a community story quilt inspired by the life, works and legacy of Jane Austen. “Over forty community groups are participating in the project including quilters and Jane Austen fans across the world demonstrating Austen’s continuing universal appeal.” Sue Dell is Collections Volunteer and an authority on the Austen coverlet: “One of the most popular exhibits at Jane Austen’s House Museum is the quilt made by Jane, her sister Cassandra and their mother. “We considered making a replica to commemorate 200 years since Jane’s death, but this felt rather static and not representing the creativity of the work of the Austen ladies. “Gradually the idea evolved of making a community quilt, replicating the idea of people working together to create a thing of beauty, but on a worldwide basis to reflect the universality of Austen’s work. “We are so excited by the enthusiasm of those who are involved and think Jane would have loved this project.” The community quilt is due to be completed in early 2018 when it will go on display at Jane Austen’s House Museum. Next Autumn, the quilt will travel to the Jane Austen’s Society of North America’s conference before returning home.
Business
Mayflower Appeal To Secure Future THE Mayflower’s launched an appeal to help raise funds for a complete overhaul of the auditorium’s interior. The Mayflower 90 Auditorium Appeal will be in celebration of the theatre’s 90th year in 2018. The theatre’s planning to go dark for a 12-week period next summer for the refurbishment which will cost £3.9 million. Managers say they’ve secured £2.54 million towards the cost of the project, but as a charitable trust which receives no direct public subsidy they need help from the public to raise the remaining £1.35 million. Michael Ockwell is Chief Executive: “Our wonderful theatre comes to life when you, our treasured audience members are sitting in the auditorium, and now it is in need of a major refurbishment programme to secure its future. “This work is essential not just to preserve the building, but to benefit the more than 500,000 people each year who enjoy visiting our theatre. “It will provide higher levels of comfort, better access and more opportunities to
experience live performance.” There’s a lot to do: the whole of the auditorium needs repainting. Brand new seating will also be installed in the stalls and circle. The orchestra pit will also be
moved further under the stage. You can help texting MAYF10 £10 to 70070 to give a £10 donation. Further fundraising options are on the website mayflower.org.uk
New Internet Choice For Hampshire
HAMPSHIRE based telecoms and internet firm, M12 Solutions is investing in the equipment to provide a local loop unbundled Internet service from the Basingstoke and Winchester telephone exchanges. M12 is also using the timing to launch its service brand, Giganet. M12’s Managing Director is Andrew Skipsey: “When we launched our rural Internet brand, Wessex Internet, we didn’t realise that we would be able to generate such a strong identity, clear culture and values. “With Giganet we want to provide the same outstanding customer service and top quality products and services to new customers, who will get our connection via the new Openreach cabinets and fibre
last mile service.” Technical Director - Matthew Skipsey - says they are confident of the infrastructure needed to run such a service: “M12 Solutions have built a fully resilient core in London which serves M12’s business customers and our Wessex Internet customer data. Built to operate at high capacity, the service sends and receives an enormous 250 terabytes of data per month, which is very reassuring for our new Hampshire customers.” To celebrate the new venture, M12 Solutions will be holding an official launch at Norton Park Hotel in June. To find out more visit giga.net.uk or call 0800 107 7777.
news
May 2017
winchestertoday.co.uk 5
New Corporate Sponsor VEHICLE hire and management company SHB Hire Limited is the latest organisation to become a corporate supporter of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. The business has a diverse fleet of over 15,000 vehicles ranging from cars, standard and specialist LCVs and HGVs to golf buggies and ATVs. The company’s head office will provide fundraising support to Air Ambulance charities across the UK with each of the 15 regional depots fundraising for their local Air Ambulance. Nicky Simpson is Commercial Director for SHB Hire: “The service that each local Air Ambulance charity provides to their respective area is nothing short of amazing. “We believe that, as a major supplier of vehicles used across the UK’s network of roads, it is only right that we support
Sponsor: SHB have a diverse fleet of over 15,000 vehicles
an organisation that has been credited with saving the lives of many road users. “The costs involved in providing such an effective and proven service are high and we hope that our support will enable the service to continue to prosper.”
Le Tour de Forêt – Year Nine! AS usual, our own David Cradduck will be taking part this May in a 40-mile fundraising cycle ride around the New Forest which has, rather tongue in cheek, been known as Le Tour de Forêt since its inception in 2009 when some 50 riders took to the saddle to raise money for Help for Heroes. This year’s Tour de Forêt, which (like last year) is in aid of the Hampshire & IOW Air Ambulance, starts from the beautiful grounds of Exbury Gardens by kind permission of the Rothschild family. The route for 2017 includes some peaceful shore-side southern lanes to Lepe and beyond before revisiting some favourite New Forest lanes. There will be a morning drink stop, the 100-odd riders will then regroup in Brockenhurst for lunch and soft drinks before returning to Exbury for tea. Apparently the new route will take in an ‘extra loop’ for the more intrepid riders – which may be why David has opted to use his Scott e-bike this year in a ‘vain attempt to keep up with the others’. The Hampshire & IOW Air Ambulance is called out many times a day to attend to road traffic collisions, sporting accidents, collapses and other, often lifesaving incidents. It costs £7,500 a day to keep the helicopter operational, which is entirely funded by the public. The charity receives no Government or Lottery support. Land agents BCM continue their kind sponsorship of Tour de Forêt to maximise the fund raising total, which last year reached an impressive £7,200. If you would like to help this great
Red Shoes Takes Major Awards SEE, we told you it was good! Matthew Bourne’s ‘The Red Shoes’ recently took the Mayflower by storm following its residency at Sadler’s Wells - leading our reviewer Beccy Conway to describe Ashley Shaw as a “world class” dancer. Now all the hard work has paid off, by landing 2 Olivier Awards - the Oscars of the Theatre world. Matthew Bourne (inset) took Theatre Choreographer of the Year, and the show itself took the Entertainment and Family Award. Ashley Shaw and Sam Archer both took to the stage at the Royal Albert Hall to dance a short routine to show just how good they were.
Fundraiser: Dave Cradduck will be joining the ‘tour’
cause you can make a donation, however large or small, at www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/TourdeForet2017 For more information about Hampshire & IOW Air Ambulance, visit their website at www.hiowaa.org
Run For Our Charity NEWS now about our nominated charity, which is also benefitting from the support of Southampton Airport. How do you fancy running along a REAL runway? Don’t worry - you won’t be competing against any incoming flights from Manchester or Edinburgh - but you will need to be up very early! The airport has launched its official Runway Run which is due to take place on the airport’s runway at 6am on Sunday 25 June 2017. The run is 5km in length and approximately 500 people are expected to join in the fun, taking advantage of the unique opportunity to run along a real runway at daybreak.Registration on the day will commence at 5:00am with a warm up at 5:40am, the run will begin at 6:00am and will finish by 7:00am so that
the runway can be cleared ready for commercial flights of the day to begin. Runners will need to register beforehand and the entry cost is £20 with all proceeds going to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. Don’t forget that the HIOWAA critical care team is called out many times to attend to road traffic collisions, sporting accidents, collapses and many other incidents. A highly skilled crew of doctors, paramedics and pilots can be at the scene of an incident within minutes, ready to deliver the same level of care that you would expect from a hospital emergency department. Next time, it could be you. For more information and to register for the Southampton Airport Runway Run please visit www.southamptonairport.com/run
news
6 winchestertoday.co.uk
ALL CHIMES BACK
Specialist TLC required for one of the best-known buildings in Winchester HERE are some great pictures of an area that most of us will never have seen previously, giving an indication of what life is like in the bell tower and of the mechanism involved that drives the clock on Winchester’s Guildhall. Winchester City Council say that specialist engineers had to be called in as the clock just refused to play ball when called upon to move forward: “The main motor in the clock mechanism came to the end of its useful life after over 50 years of service. It stopped working when the clocks were due to change for British Summer Time. “Our specialist contractors, Smith of Derby, have created a new like-for-like replacement. They have been looking after the clock since the beginning of the last century.” John Smith set up his first shop in
Derby’s Queen Street back in 1856 and the company has been specialising in clock manufacture and maintenance ever since. We guess that our clock in Winchester is in safe ‘hands’. Investigations revealed that after over 50 years loyal service, the main motor in the clock mechanism had come to the end of its useful life and needed to be replaced. Horologist Paul Kilburn installed the new part on Monday 24 April. The repair was a success and shortly before midday, the clock’s hands began to turn and the bells rang out once more. The Guildhall clock tower dates back to Victorian times and retains most of the original features, including timberwork, the imposing clock faces, and bells. Images: Winchester City Council
Shortly before midday, the clock’s bells rang out once more
May 2017
reviews
May 2017
winchestertoday.co.uk 7
Toe Tapping Mad Fun of Wonderland Beccy Conway watches ‘Wonderland’ at The Mayflower IT’S been some time since I’ve been to see a completely new musical, so it’s with anticipation that I take my seat in the Mayflower stalls for the opening night of Wonderland in Southampton. Wonderland made its UK debut in Edinburgh in January, before embarking on a massive 30 venue tour. A musical for true fans of musicals, Wonderland is in a similar vein to the likes of Wicked! It’s silly and brash, and generally a bit bonkers. But, would you expect anything less from a contemporary adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and Through the Looking Glass? We begin outside a towering tenement block, as despondent single mother, Alice begins ‘the worst day ever’. Within the first few minutes she learns her exhusband has remarried; discovers that her car has been stolen, making her late for work; and then she’s promptly fired – all on her 40th birthday. With less astonishment than one might expect, Alice, her daughter Ellie (Naomi Morris) and their lovelorn neighbour Jack, spot the White Rabbit and follow him down a rabbit hole (or in this case, down in a broken lift!). The trio are transported to Wonderland, full of all the familiar characters, each there to escape the ‘real world’. They are ruled over by the tyrannical Queen of Hearts (TV’s Wendi Peters), who spends her days merrily chopping of the heads of her subjects to confine them to her realm. The overarching theme is of desire for change. We watch as sensible Ellie steps through the Looking-Glass and
WONDERLAND The Mayflower, Southampton 18 April 2017
reappears as a sassy teenager. Morris’ performance is a highlight for me; she pulls off both the mature daughter and rebellious teenager acts with brilliant comic timing. Rachael Wooding, of Britain’s Got Talent 2016 fame, stars as Alice in the Southampton leg of the tour. Wooding’s voice is fantastic, although the rather weak script doesn’t always do this justice. The same can be said for Natalie McQueen’s Mad Hatter; McQueen gives the performance all she’s got but the storyline of her autocratic takeover of the Wonderland residents falls a little flat. Things feel rather rushed during Act 1, but this might be due, in part, to the requisite chaos of Wonderland. Its inhabitants are mad, after all… The
The score and lyrics are vibrant and incredibly catchy
comedy is what elevates Wonderland from what is otherwise a somewhat formulaic production. Wooding receives a laugh-out-loud reaction as she scolds Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee in a hilarious teacher-like moment; ‘You NEVER run with scissors!’ Overall, the choreography is fun, and the costumes are a playful nod to the classic depictions of Carroll’s infamous characters. Although I do struggle to differentiate between a few of the songs, Frank Wilhorn’s score and Jack Murphy’s lyrics are vibrant and incredibly catchy.
If you’re travelling at any time over the next two months, you can catch Wonderland at the following venues: MAY 2017: New Wimbledon Theatre (2-6 May), Bristol Hippodrome (8-13 May), Brighton Theatre Royal (30 May - 4 June). JUNE 2017: Princess Theatre Torquay (6-10 June), Empire Theatre Liverpool (12-17 June), Venue Cymru Llandudno (26 June - 1 July).
All Aboard for Treasure Island! THE culmination of the past term’s work for these talented 8-to-18-year olds came to Winchester in Acting UP’s interpretation of the Robert Louis Stevenson classic ‘Treasure Island’. The production had it all - sea shanties, mystery, murder, sword fights, the treasure itself, ‘X’ marks the spot on the map, the ship, glam costumes, Long Joan Silver... whoah! Hold on... Long JOAN Silver? Well, yes... we had a Jane Hawkins too. Role reversal? Girl Power! We were very impressed with the meticulous delivery and performance from Long Joan (Lucy Newton) and Jane (Cora Banyard). Charlie Sewell seemed to relish the part of Squire Trelawny in that costume, almost acting himself off the stage (great part, great fun) - and praise too for Jess Ridge as Captain Smollett. However, ALL those who took part deserve praise; the younger members of the cast were fearless and fun too. Director Rosanna Sloan says the entire company has had a “lot of fun” bringing this together, and it certainly shows. Of course, these kind of shows are ideal opportunities for any very young actor at this stage in their career to make mistakes, and learn from mistakes. I’ll put them here and hope I’m not made to walk the plank... There was a tendancy to rushthrough-some-of-the-lines-before-Iforget-them in a quarter of the speed that they actually need to be delivered in. We were stuck with some lighting cues which never arrived - not their fault, but there’s
TREASURE ISLAND Acting UP - Chesil Theatre 10 April 2017
a need to carry on. The Chesil Theatre is also plagued with traffic noise coming in from outside - and up at the back it was sometimes difficult to hear, so projection needed to be a little better in places. Also, the cast will eventually learn that when you talk across stage to someone, it’s still very important to face the audience when delivering the line, as the weaker voices will go in the wrong direction and be lost. BUT, having said all this, (and I
hope I’m not walking the plank at this stage!) - there is no doubt that all of them have the one thing that matters: ENTHUSIASM! There was plenty of it, and it shone through, especially during the second half, sea-shanties - and the curtain call (!) All mums and dads, aunties and uncles should be very proud of the achievements made here. There was a lot of talent on this stage - watch out for them elsewhere in the future. Knowing this, the audience was clapping along enthusiastically too. Bravo. If your son or daughter would like to get involved in future productions, you can find out more on www. actinguphants.co.uk
lifestyle
8 winchestertoday.co.uk
May 2017
Squirt and Squidge Freya Storey continues her look at life as a young mum THIS one is dedicated to fun. I’m writing it as my husband is out with his friends having beer and eating curry and good for him! Generally this is how our social life evolves at the moment, with two small children tucked up in bed we tag team nights out and tonight it’s his turn. Don’t get me wrong - I’ve been doing my fair share of socialising and looking back at the calendar over the past 5 months there are in fact more ‘mummy nights out’ than ‘daddy’ ones, not that we’re counting... Okay, so there have been about 4 mummy nights out over the last 5 months - and to me that feels acceptable (I must add that one of those included a yoga disco and another one a 1 and a half hr trip to the pub behind our house where I pretty much felt the baby monitor was in reach.)
So is it wrong to go out as a new mum? Should we be in ‘just in case baby kicks off ’, or to continuously read up on ‘weaning, ‘potty training’, ‘sleep training’ or the next fad that will make your life with your new bundle ‘so much easier.’ To me if I’m honest, first time round I was pretty intense: I did genuinely feel that my baby’s world would crumble if I stepped out of the door. I put so much pressure on myself at first but - gradually, and luckily began to take the brakes off and roll with the amazing experience that is ‘being a mum.’ Second time round and I feel I’m not putting as much pressure on myself, I’m being kinder to myself and feeling more at ease. Perhaps it’s because we already have a little bundle that has survived in this big bad world for 3 years, perhaps I’m just accepting every moment, having the confidence to enjoy it for what it is.
was either pregnant or breast feeding! That night was a good night, a night where we weren’t just ‘mums’ we were also ‘ourselves.’ That night ended in me choosing to get the night bus back home! I wanted to experience something I hadn’t for a long, long time (the last time being when I lived in London almost 10 years ago.) It was a great experience and it did take me back - just for 10 mins - to feeling like I was in my mid twenties. I looked around the bus and felt myself smiling wryly… so, this is what goes on past 10pm away from the comfort of my sofa and an omnibus of Broadchurch... I got home, kicked my heels off, made a cup of tea and realised that everyone was OK. In fact, they were more than ok - they were contently sleeping, as this mummy took a deep breath and tucked into the biscuit barrel.
We weren’t just mums, we were also ourselves So, I have been out a few times, and this time round I’ve actually been able to relax, I haven’t been checking my phone every half an hour, I haven’t been forcing that glass of wine down ‘just because I’m out and I feel I should.’ A recent night out saw me and a best friend high fiving as we realised we hadn’t been able to share a glass of fizz for about 5 years as one or other of us
Motoring
Greener Than The Rest THE Toyota Prius Plug-in has been declared the 2017 World Green Car - that’s a second consecutive success for Toyota which also took the 2016 title with the Mirai hydrogen fuel cell saloon. Jack Hollis accepted the award at the New York International Auto Show a couple of weeks ago: “It is a great honour to see the car named World Green Car. “For global automakers like Toyota, this award is a testament to our focus on developing products that both stir the emotions and meet the mobility needs of our customers in all corners of the world.” Prius Plug-in was chosen from an initial entry list of 12 new models from around the world. The award was determined on criteria including tailpipe emissions, fuel consumption and advanced powertrain technology aimed at increasing the vehicle’s environmental performance. The all-new Prius Plug-in was launched in the UK in March this year, and represents a significant leap forward in Toyota’s plug-in hybrid technology. Compared to the first generation model, new Prius Plug-in can cover double the distance – more than 30 miles – and achieve much higher speeds in allelectric, emissions-free driving. It benefits from a number of new technologies that increase efficiency, performance and practicality, significantly enhancing the model’s all-round appeal. Its technological
Nissan Sales Boom Price: from £29195 Fuel Economy: 282 mpg Charging Time: 2 hours (16 Amp Capability) EV Range: 39 miles CO2 Emissions: 22g/km
breakthroughs include a Dual Motor EV drive system and a Battery Warming system, plus two world firsts: an EV range-extending solar roof and gas-
injection heat pump air conditioning. The car is built on the same Toyota New Global Architecture platform as the standard, full hybrid Prius. When
combined with specifically tuned suspension, it delivers much-improved handling dynamics and a more enjoyable and rewarding drive.
NISSAN has seen an enormous rise in sales across most of Europe, with 176,770 sales in the UK for the 2016 financial year - a 7.5% volume rise the 8th consecutive year there’s been a rise, and representing a market share of 5.7%. Sales were helped by the introduction of the new Micra in March, which delighted the chairman of Nissan Europe, Paul Willcox: “We have a commitment to our customers to bring more each year - more choice, more value and more innovative and exciting products.” Nissan produced 660,000 vehicles in Europe in 2016, with over 507,000 of them in Sunderland.
A special outdoor village-wide event in aid of
Another
It’s the 1950s and the war is over but in Cheriton a murder has shaken its people to the core. It seems everyone has a secret…
The village and police need your help to solve the mystery. We will feed you, entertain you and reward you (especially if you dress the part).
Saturday 17th June 2017, 2pm at Cheriton Village Hall SO24 0PZ ‘til late-ish at Cheriton School hall
There will be tea and cakes served in the village hall throughout the afternoon, a sumptuous barbecue supper in the evening with 50s live music and disco, plus prizes for the best period dress and best detective(s). You can solve the crime as individuals, but it’s much more fun in teams!
Tickets are £15 for individuals or £40 for a family of four (parents and kids). 12s and under go free. Murder packs (to share) £5 each – available from 2pm on the day. Tickets from www.ticketsource.co.uk/cheritonplayers or call 0333 666 3366 (standard rates apply, telephone enquiries are handled through Ticketsource).
www.thecheritonplayers.org.uk
10 winchestertoday.co.uk
the final word
May 2017
A Real Privilege Winchester Today’s News Editor meets up with the 817th Mayor of Winchester to find out how her year has been. WE give our ‘final word’ this month to someone who has represented our city for the last year. Jane Rutter describes her year as Mayor of Winchester as a “real privilege.” We met at Abbey House on her Open Day. Jane is the 817th Mayor, the third female in a row, and probably the most social media active ever… 1500 followers from a standing start in May 2016. The Mayor’s office hope that using Twitter has brought the message of what they do to an entirely new audience. I ask the Mayor how her year has been: “It’s been amazing, exciting, busy, scary at times, challenging, moving. Some of the visits I’ve made have been very moving. Take the visit to Christ Church for example. This one was organised by the police for people who lost someone
You have to put being Mayor in front of everything
Outgoing Mayor: Jane Rutter pictured (clockwise from right)at a Citizenship Ceremony in Winchester; at the Open Day in April with help from Winton WI; helping to feed the homeless at Christmas; Cheers! At the Quiz night in Winchester’s Guildhall
in a road traffic accident. “Sometimes I’ve been caught unawares. One of the things I’ve introduced is an awards scheme for primary schools. I went to my children’s primary school in Kings Worthy. I found that very moving. I can’t even talk about it now. I suddenly had memories of my children going through the school. It was lovely to see the school thriving and doing so well, with all of them happy. It was very moving to be there and share that with them.” What’s been scary? “I was a bit worried that I would not be able to do my 90 mile sponsored bike ride around the district but I did manage it in two days. “Then of course there was the decision to take part in an abseil down the Spinnaker Tower. I did enjoy the practice run at the Winchester Fire Station, but their tower is 30 feet, not 300!” She enjoyed the practice so much because they made her feel so confident that she actually did it twice. So many people ask the Mayor to be part of their event - me included. I ask if she would recommend being Mayor to anyone else: “Well yes, if you don’t mind giving up a year of your life to do the job. “It does take over your life, you have to put being Mayor in front of everything. You’ll never forget it and so few of us have had the opportunity to do it. You do have to commit totally to doing it.”