solent life magazine wessex february 2012

A R T R E V I E W S l I N T E R I O R S l G A R D E N S l H E A L T H & B E A U T Y l C O M P E T I T I O N S l W H A T ’ S O N

FEBRUARY 2012

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contactusSolent Life Magazine Tel… 01489 583800 • Fax… 01489 583803 Online… www.solentlife.co.uk • Email… [email protected] WEBB HOUSE, 20 BRIDGE ROAD, PARK GATE, HAMPSHIRE, S031 7GE

theteamEditorial Dave Hill – Managing Editor Tel… 01489 583743 • Email… [email protected]

David Rose-Massom – Senior Journalist Email… [email protected]

Fiona Cooke – Contributing Writer Email… [email protected] Advertising Sales Sarah Kent Janet Grimm Tel… 01489 584010 Tel… 01489 583800 Email… [email protected] Email… [email protected]

Steve Walker Abby Champkin Tel… 01489 584057 Tel… 01489 583815

Email… [email protected] Email… [email protected]

Diane Mabbs Barbara Smith Tel… 01489 583852 Tel… 01489 583719

Email… [email protected] Email… [email protected] Design & Production Design by SolentLife Email… [email protected] • Online… solentlife.co.uk

Deadline for advertising copy & editorial for next issue: 17th February 2012

Published by Living Coast Media. © Copyright Solent Life 2011. All rights reserved. No part of Solent Life Magazine can be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure all information is correct, the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions contained within.

As spring creeps ever nearer, we are looking

forward to some brighter days as we start to

move away from the depths of winter (well at

least as deep as it’s got so far this year). While

we are on the subject of weather, look out for

our new feature series ‘A Day in the Life of...’

in which we begin this month with a behind-the-scenes view of

the demanding work of one of our region’s favourite weather

presenters – Reham Khan.

Not only is Valentine’s Day back again, but this year of course is

a leap year, so we have not only covered the romance aspects of

this period but have explored some possibilities of what an extra

day can bring to our lives. The walk for February continues that

romantic hint as it is near the New Forest village of Lover.

Our partnership with the Portsmouth Air Festival continues with

a fascinating insight into one of this year’s main attractions, the

Brieitling Wingwalkers. The restaurant review reflects the flavours

of India and our road test of a Maserati brings out the glamour of

Italy to give Solent Life that touch

of international flair.

Enjoy a little romance and enjoy

your extra day – so hugs and

kisses to you all – well to the

ladies at least ❤

welcome

08

in this issue…

FEBRUARY 2012

contents

…03solentlife.co.uk•FEBRUARY2012•

features12… Portsmouth Air Festival

Life on the wing with the Brietling Wingwalkers.

36… Spring Brides Ideas for a wedding.

42… Day in the Life of… A day with BBC's Reham Khan.

regulars08… Artist Review

Love and romance from Lynne Davies.

20… Travel Year of the Dragon in China.

22… Motoring Review Italian sophistication from Maserati.

54… Green Fingers Shrubs looking good this month.

64… Solent Life Out and About Images from around the region.

66… Lovely Walk Walk with your lover at Lover.

72… What’s On Reviews and theatre productions coming your way.

74… Mind Gym Try our latest puzzles.

12

The Room 8 Hair & Beauty New Year Open DayA big thank you to all those who attended the Room 8 Open Day an Saturday 14th January. Once again, it was a resounding success as many people took advantage of the special offers discounts.

The theme this year was “The Red Carpet” with model look-a- likes from the world of film and music. The hair and make up for the models were created by the Room 8 artistic Team. The winning entry was Beyonce, who was modelled by Katie Silvester (pictured). Costumes were provided by “Express Yourself” Costume hire in Netley Abbey, so a big thank you to them as well.Special Offer during February. There is 25% discount on the new microderm abrasion

machine. Microderm abrasion removes the dead cells of the skin and rejuvenates it, leaving the skin glowing. This procedure is ideal for anti ageing, pigmentation and acne scares. The normal price for 1/2 hour is normally £40 reduced to £30. A one hour session with a collagen mask is normally £52 reduced to £39.Finally, if you are stuck for that special present for Valentines Day, why not buy a Room 8 gift voucher and thoroughly spoil that special person in your life.To take advantage of the special offer or for bookings and enquiries call 01489 582660.

04… •FEBRUARY2012•solentlife.co.uk

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Spiced red pepper soup with crisp tempura vegetables

“The Wine Bar Charcuterie to share” A selection of sliced Mediterranean meat board with chargrilled

breads, marinated olives, homemade sunblushed tomatoes, aubergine caviar and shaved parmesan

Red crab tian salad

M a i n s“Chef’s Chateaux Briand for two” • Roast chateaux briand

served pink with twice confit hand cut chips, béarnaise sauce and chargrilled courgettes

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D e s s e r t s Strawberry sundae for two • Chefs chocolate surprise

Apple crumble pavlova • Selection of traditional cheeses

Lynne Davies is in a relaxed and happy place in her life and this is being reflected in the quality and style of her work. We introduced her to Solent Life readers quite a few years ago now and although we liked her canvasses,

there was a certain naivety to her work, now there is a great maturity and confidence. She is now a full time professional artist and her work shows style and passion which has been given added colour with a little humour to the romance she portrays.

“I know my work has improved over recent years and it has to be because of where I am in my life.” Lynne explained. “My wildlife painting in particular has caught the imagination of people who see my work and I have been a finalist three times in the BBC Wildlife Artist of the Year competition, I am determined to win it this year.

“I turned fully professional because I was just getting too busy to be just an amateur; it was about two years ago I suddenly realised I could afford to pay my bills with what I was earning from my paintings.” She continued.

“I am a hopeless romantic and because I am happy in my life it gives me more passion in what I do.”

words • david rose-massom

paintingwith a

08…

artreview


“The biggest turning point for me was the Winchester Arts Fair, which is a big arts market held in Middle Brook Street in the city. I just started getting busier and busier with both repeat business as people came back for more of my work and gaining commissions.” Some people just have art and performance in their blood and Lynne Davies, artist and singer, is one; a born performer who needs the appreciation of an audience. “My singing is almost as important as my painting.” She said. “With both my singing and my art I get the same thrill as I have this need for recognition and, if you like, the assurance of being liked with what I do.

“With the music I used to just do it for the applause but now it is more about the inner self and I love the songs I am singing and the musicians around me because they are as passionate and artistic as I am. I need both that and my painting because my art work is very insular and solo, whereas the music is something I can do in company.” Although now professional it is still about the plaudits. “I do get a sort of applause with my paintings; recently I posted a painting of bears catching a salmon on my Facebook page and the comments I received were amazing. Getting the praise from one person standing viewing a painting is as thrilling as hearing an audience applaud a musical performance.

“I do feel as if I have to leave my mark on the

world in one way or another.” Lynne added. Much of the work Lynne now completes is on commission. “I recently had one commission that really stretched me creatively. It was from an 85 year old back-packer. She still travels the world staying in hostels and she wanted me to paint her life story. Very tricky to do but when it was finished she shed tears of joy and that made me feel really special, we are now good friends which is a lovely by-product of my work.” Another genre of Lynne’s work is images of a more romantic nature.

“They don’t set out to be ‘romantic’ but that is the feel that comes from them. When I start a piece of work I stand in front of the canvas and I am never quite sure, unless it is a commission, what is going to end up on that canvas.” A couple of pieces are entitled the ‘Floosy’ and they are very passionate, and gently sensual in content. “The Floosy is really my accountant and her boyfriend.” Lynne laughed. “They were in my kitchen, I set up some downlighters to get the right mood, and a few glasses of wine helped with that as well, and I shot some photographs of them. I worked from those images and they both loved what I did. In fact my accountant even bought one of the pieces for her mum.

“I love the work of well-known artist Fabian Perez; and that has inspired me to go down the romance road. At some viewings, some

have suggested that the images were almost too sexy, but I would like to take it even further. Perhaps they may not appeal to the local market but if I could get my work into London galleries I think they may sell well.

“It is tricky to explain but I just have the mental image of entwining bodies, the curves and textures of their skin; it is a bit like going back to the Michelangelo influence of big pictures it is about shape and lines rather than nudes!” She may be professional now but there is still panic when she stands in front of an empty canvas. “I get stressed and panicky and there are some days when I get really mad. I have weird sleep patterns and I often wake at two in the morning and get a great idea. Not easy because I am still a working mum of three children and they also need my time and energy so I do get really tired. But, no matter how tired you get if you have an idea you just have to start with it.

“Like most artists I will always want to just paint my own ideas but the commissions are the bread and butter. The real thrill though is to stand in front of a blank canvas and get going. It can be scary and frightening until you reach the end, but it is a wonderful feeling to complete something.” For the future Lynne Davies would love her own large studio where she can also hold workshops and pass on the knowledge and skill she has learned over the years. Finally we asked if her love of art and performing had rubbed off on her children. “I think it has, but in saying that my eldest daughter wants to be a police diver; and I have no idea where that came from!” l

Lynne’s work is also on display and for sale in Hiscocks Gallery, Southsea and the White Dog Gallery, Lee-on-the-Solent. Winchester Art Fair is held the third Sunday of each month beginning again in March. www.lynnedavies.com

…09

Our artist Review is kindly sponsored by WHITE DOG GALLERY Lee On Solent 023 9255 2255. www.whitedoggallery.co.uk

ARTIST REVIEW SPONSORSHIP

Rotate your pictures! Over time, we become “blind” to our pictures as we see them hanging in the same place every day. So ring the changes and rotate them – put some away and put others up. Grouping pictures –by size, colour or theme for example - makes a great display. First place your pictures on the floor in a display – it’s a good way to check the balance and layout before putting them on the wall. If you’re hanging pictures in a vertical row, always ensure the largest (or darkest) picture is positioned at the bottom.

THE WHITE DOG TIP

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airfestival

One of the display highlights for this year’s inaugural Portsmouth Air Festival will, without doubt, be the

Breitling Wingwalkers. Solent Life spoke to Sahara, Chief Wingwalker and one of their most experienced flyers, together with Martyn Carrington, Flying Director of AeroSuperBatics the company that operate the Breitling sponsored display team. Martyn told us of the history of Wingwalking following the Great War. “In 1918 an American flier called Ormer Locklear came up with a stunt that was guaranteed to wow the crowds: he would climb out of the aeroplane and walk along the wing and even climb from one aeroplane onto to another. Apparently Locklear first clambered out of the cockpit to fix a technical problem while training during the war. A normal person would have landed and then sorted out the problem.” He explained. “Pretty soon you

couldn’t operate a flying circus that didn’t have a wing walking act and Locklear was soon joined by numerous other daredevils including the wonderfully named Ethal Dare, the world’s first female wingwalker who like Locklear would walk from plane to plane.” The Breitling team now have a team of professional wingwalkers, with great nicknames such as Bird, Lottie, Lollipop, Stealth and of course Sahara; who is really Sarah Tanner and has been performing the dangerous stunts, and giggling, for six years.

“I suppose it was natural for me to do something like this as I have always had a love of dancing and of flying.” She told Solent Life. “When I first auditioned to join the team I was nervous for a number of reasons; I wanted to perform well as with any audition but then as soon as I took off from the ground all I wanted to do was wave to the crowds; I needed an audience while I was up there.

The first time I flew upside down, I just could not stop giggling all the time!” How many people would be laughing if they were flying upside down, well in excess of 100mph, and more importantly doing it while standing on the wing of the aircraft?


wingson the

of a dove


“Even though I have the fitness of a dancer it is still very physically demanding.” Sahara continued. “Not only are you strapped in but you are battling against 100mph winds and although it is great fun flying low over the crowds you are continually working against the air pressure. I may have been flying for six years now but I still get that thrill up there, you can never get bored with your job

– it’s always a challenge. “Of course we all trust the pilots; they are all highly experienced flyers and there is a really good bond between us. It is the lead aircraft that is dictating the movements and routines but it is an extra challenge of the formation aircraft and wingwalker, to follow and mirror the manoeuvres of the leader.” Martyn returned to the history and the fate of that original barnstorming hero. “Not surprisingly there were a few mishaps in those early and risky days.” He said. “Ormer himself came a cropper while working on a film. These wing walk pioneers were operating without a safety net: no parachutes, no safety wires tethering them to the aircraft. A slip of the foot and it was the high dive for our brave showman or showgirl. In 1938 the authorities in America decided that parachutes had to be worn though by that time the Second World War was on its way and the show was about to close anyway.” Flying changed after the war and there were new goals like breaking the sound barrier, space exploration and the development of quiet, fast and comfortable airliners so that we could all go on foreign holidays relatively cheaply. In other words we’d got used to flying and some of the magic had gone out of it. “Those barnstorming days of the ’20s

and 30s and the characters who manned the flying circuses haven’t been forgotten by those with a deep love of flying and a passion for its history. A few wing walking teams operated in America in the 1970s but it wasn’t until frustrated barnstormer Vic Norman founded his famous AeroSuperBatics wing walking team in the early 1980s that the sight of dare devils performing handstands and flying upside down on the wing was seen in Europe.

“Yes, the wingwalkers are safely tethered to their Boeing Stearman biplanes, but the glamour, spectacle, sounds and atmosphere are just the same as it was when young, brave Ormer Locklear went for a dramatic 10ft stroll along the wing of his warplane in 1918.” What of the new event in Portsmouth and its venue along the Solent? “It promises to be an absolutely wonderful event.” Martyn said.

“It is always a fantastic opportunity to display at new venues and we have often flown over Portsmouth on the way to other airshows and always thought it would make a superb venue; now it seems as if our dream has come true.

“It is always easier to perform along a coastline, it is a nice live feature that gives the pilots a very good visual reference but also offers a great natural theatre for us as performers and of course a great vantage point for the crowds below watching us. But, we do have to watch out for yacht masts of course.

“One other strong point is that with the raised ground of waterfronts such as by Southsea Castle it puts the crowd on more of an eye level with the aircraft making it even more of a visual spectacle. That also

makes it a photographer’s paradise as it will appear in the images as if they had been flying alongside of us. It will be a fascinating and fabulous event in Portsmouth this year and a great addition to our performance calendar.” Chief Wingwalker Sahara is now in her sixth season and since becoming a wingwalker, has enjoyed taking on an operations role in the office as well. She helps to co-ordinate and run the team, as well as training new recruits in the art of wingwalking. Alongside her additional responsibilities she still thrives on the adrenaline rush of looping and rolling through the sky at 150 miles per hour and climbing around the aircraft in flight. One of her favourite manoeuvres is flying inverted down the crowd line and also loves the exhilarating freedom of sitting on the leading edge of the top wing. There is however one part of the display she does not enjoy. “Rain; I hate the rain.” She said. “When you are travelling between 100 and 150 miles an hour into the rain it really, really hurts! It is like being hit by dozens of pin sharp needles!” l

www.aerosuperbatics.comwww.breitling.com

PORTSMOUTH AIR FESTIVAL 18th August For the latest news go to www.portsmouthairfestival.co.uk


14…

As Justin will also be Solent Life's 'Money Expert' for 2012 he would welcome your questions relating to money matters. Send them to Solent Life Money Expert at [email protected] or Solent Life, Webb House, 20 Bridge Road, Park Gate, SO31 7GE.

To receive complimentary advice on your Wealth Management, Retirement Planning including your Options at retirement or Inheritance Tax Planning needs, produced by St. James’s Place Wealth Management, contact Justin Stevens, Partner of St. James’s Place Wealth Management on 01489 790797, by email [email protected] or visit www.justin-stevens.co.uk

moneymatters

ISA investing doesn’t need to be confusing. With the help of a financial

advisor, gaining a clear understanding of how this valuable allowance can form a cornerstone of your investment portfolio is possible

for even the most inexperienced investor. The key to building a cohesive and coherent ISA portfolio, with the potential to achieve your long-term financial objectives, is diversification. Diversification means spreading your investments across a range of different assets to reduce the impact of any one falling in value. Not even the most talented investor can predict which one is going to produce the best return year after year, but there are two things you can be sure of: 1) The best-performing investment in one year can often turn out to be the worst-performing investment the next year. 2) by spreading your money across a selection of asset classes, geographic regions and sectors, your investments stand a better chance of achieving more consistent returns. With personal finance grabbing more and more column inches in the press, many investors have accumulated a hotchpotch portfolio of investment ideas over the years as each ISA season heralds the discovery of the next “must-have” asset class or fund. And it’s easy to see why. The choice is potentially bewildering. There are around 2,500 retail funds in the UK into which investors can invest their stocks & shares ISA allowance. Faced with the challenge of finding the right one, it’s easy to see why some base their decision on whatever is the latest investment fashion, the most impressive advert or the best claim to superior past performance.

Yet it is a decision that’s important to get right. Each investor’s objective will be unique to their own individual needs and goals. Whether you are looking to provide additional income in retirement, building a capital sum for the future or a combination of both, ensuring that your investments are working together is vital for your future financial wellbeing. And regularly reviewing your portfolio is an important discipline to help achieve this goal and a habit that we should all stick to. Selecting your ISA investment manager is one consideration but regularly reviewing their performance is an equally important factor. Not properly monitoring the performance of your investment manager is akin to driving a car without any rear-view mirrors

– you don’t get any warning of what’s coming. In the investment world, that might be the departure of a ‘star’ investment manager you’d specifically chosen or the impact of macroeconomic factors on specific regions or asset classes. But how frequently should you review your ISA portfolio? There is no right or wrong answer to this question but the commonly accepted view is that an annual inspection is adequate for most. Identifying the strong performers (and those that haven’t fared so well) is one aspect of the exercise but, fundamentally, investors should be asking one key question: is this portfolio still working to achieve my financial objectives? Conducting a regular review will ensure that your investments are working towards your objectives. Whether your portfolio needs a small tweak in one or two areas or a complete overhaul, by working together with your advisor, the process for getting your portfolio back on the right course can be a simple and cost-effective one. l

Servicing the car, shopping around for the best insurance deal, regularly investing and reviewing your ISA portfolio... most of us accept that these are good habits to get into – but how many of us actually stick to them?

words • justin stephens

investmentsit’s a great time to review your



How would you spend it?I asked this question of my two children, who have the wonderful ability to take an idea and be unrestricted by the practicalities of how it

would actually work. Ellie (11) said she would go Snowboarding in Switzerland, Camel Riding in Egypt and Snake Hunting in Australia. Theo (8) said he would also travel around the world for the day, but he would help the homeless; he would fly around dropping tents and blankets from his magic carpet in the sky. I allowed myself a brief moment of pride that I had raised such a generous, giving soul, until he refused to share his chocolate with me. Apparently his generosity only extends to those in real need, whereas Ellie would willingly give me the whole bar if asked.

(Although, as a female, she understands that chocolate is essential to our wellbeing!)But what struck me about their responses is that it reflects the faculty we all have within us; to be both selfless and selfish. When we see those two words we tend to think of one being a positive and the other being a negative, but is that actually the case? There are some truly giving people who seem to have an enormous capacity for altruism, for example Mother Teresa. Yet I would imagine that even she had evenings when she took the phone off the hook, bolted the bathroom door, and enjoyed some “me” time with a deep bath, some scented bubbles and the latest parish magazine. And having taken that time for herself she would have emerged refreshed, re-engaged and gone back to her good works with renewed vigour.

Occasionally we all need to be selfish in order to be selfless. As a single mother, I run a small business, write articles such as these, juggle household chores, the demands of my children and deal with the other necessities of life, such as tax returns and blocked drains. There are times when I have nothing left to give, when, after a day of serving to the needs of my clients, a request for help with homework, coming at the same time as preparing a meal, and tending to the other child’s hurt knee, can have me crying real tears over the onions. It is then that I know I need to do nothing but think of my own needs; to phone for a pizza, put the children in front of the T.V. and lock myself in the bathroom. Unfortunately there are days when I can’t see beyond my tiredness and irritation; I end up slamming saucepans around, berating the child who has left her homework until the last minute, snapping at the one with the knee to stop snivelling, and only just stopping myself from adding the immortal words “Or I will really give you something to cry about!” Mother Teresa I am not!Yet I also know that giving of myself to others, carrying out acts of love, kindness and simple courtesy can feed my soul. Just as a smile from a stranger can lift my spirits on a bad day, the knowledge that I have made a difference in someone’s life can allow me to rise above the petty irritations of my daily routine. Much like a drug addict, it can leave me looking for more opportunities to get my feel good fix. It gives me the willingness to take only as much as I require, both materially and spiritually, and live a simple life. I have found that the less I want, the less I need; yet, paradoxically the more I have to give. There is a balance to be had, one that allows us to take time for ourselves in a way which doesn’t demand anything of anyone else, but also includes generosity of spirit both within ourselves and from others. They say that you cannot change anyone else, only yourself. If we follow that through to encompass the whole human race and the challenges we face in our world, then the change in the way we live, which I suspect we all are seeking, may only happen if we each, individually, take responsibility for only our own actions and happiness. If I am truly happy with my lot, even when it is challenging, then I am free to love and give to others. To live a truly fulfilled life we all need days when we either find enjoyment for ourselves like Ellie, or give to others like Theo. As long as, at the end of the day, our hearts are singing then we have made a difference. And if I were to have a day when I could make anything happen, I would wave my children off on their jaunts with warm coats, packed lunches and strict instructions to phone me if they get lost. I would then take this extra leap year day, one that is shared the world over, and I would decree it as a day when we all just smile. A day when we give a smile to everyone that we meet; to our loved ones, to strangers, to our friends and, most of all, to our enemies. That simple act could change our world. Oh, and I’d also warn everyone to watch out for blankets raining down from the sky! l

a day makeswhat a difference

Unless you are a woman who is planning to propose to her loved one, the extra day we gain this leap year may well pass by unnoticed. It will become just another day in the routine of your life. Yet just imagine if February 29th was a precious gift of twenty four hours for you to use to make a difference. When you could, as the song goes, bring the sun and the flowers where there used to be rain. A day that was yours to do whatever you choose; a day where you could go anywhere, do anything or be anyone.

words • fiona cooke

solentlife

18…

photography

Romance is in the air, couples are thinking of naming the day, deer are looking doe-eyed at their young bucks and birds are building nests, time to get your cameras out.

Birds are in full song trying to impress possible mates, alpha males of the animal

kingdom, are strutting their stuff and beaks are full of nesting materials. This means

that some stunning shots are available.

It is great to get the shots of birds in their courtship rituals, especially when, like the Great

Crested Grebe they get up and dance on the water with male and female in a mirror image

of each other; but be aware of their space and keep your distance.

Try not to disturb and use a long lens if possible, and if you do not have such an item in your

camera bag, then be a little more patient, stay wary and keep your eyes open because there

are ample opportunities to get shots of displays and nest building even with short lenses.

February and March are prime months for nest building and courting new partners and it is a

great time for getting some exceptional imagery on your camera. The sun is still fairly low in

the sky offering a soft light with elongated shadows and yet we still have stunning blue skies.

So watch where you tread, take care of your surroundings and search out some wonderful

wildlife images at this time of year – then send them to us as entries for our Photographer

of the Year competition and get your shot in the 2013 Solent Life calendar. l

romanceshooting

February’s winner... Katy Walker

T H E R U L E S :

All images must be taken by the named photographer

and that photographer should not be a professional

(e.g. earning the bulk of their income from photography).

Images should be ‘landscape’ in format, saved as J-pegs

and named for their location. Images should then be sent

via E-mail as high resolution and accompanied clearly

with name, address and a contact number. The judges

decision each month and for Photographer of the Year is

final and no correspondence will be entered into. Send

your entries to [email protected]

PHOTO COMP 2013

PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION SPONSORSHIPOur Calendar competition is kindly sponsored by the LONDON CAMERA EXCHANGE FAREHAM & NIKON 135 West Street, Fareham. T: 01329 236441. E: [email protected]


20…

China has an awful lot to offer and deciding when and where to travel and how to get the best value can be quite tricky. This is why it

makes sense to discuss your plans with the travel experts such as Amity World Travel and Wendy Wu Tours, who can make sure you take the right tour for your personal requirements and at the right time of year. Wendy Wu Tours are fully inclusive of all flights, accommodation, meals, local guides and entrance fees as well as arranging your Chinese visa, so you can budget and plan ahead with the peace of mind that there will be no hidden extras or nasty shocks on arrival. Wendy Wu tours also have the flexibility of being able to add pre and post tour arrangements such as time in Hong Kong, Macau or Tokyo as well as offering a

choice of airlines to fly with from BA, Cathay, Virgin and Emirates to name but a few. There are many reasons why Amity World Travel enjoys working with Wendy Wu, one is the consistently high satisfaction rates scored by their clients. Amity Travel always asks their clients for feedback, the recurring theme that comes back is the depth of knowledge, willingness to help and the respect that is held by the hoteliers, airlines and ground staff for the Wendy Wu product. So much so that Amity World Travel now has repeat clients looking to travel on the new Wendy Wu Indochina brochure, covering Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. With tours ranging from 10 days to 29 in duration there are enough options to suit everyone when it comes to those all important factors of time and budget. The

10 day tour taking in Shanghai (The Paris of the East), Xian (home to the Terracotta Warriors) and Beijing where you will visit the Great Wall, The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, is ideal for first time visitors and those with a limited amount of holiday time, and with prices starting at below £1590 per person it offers exceptional value. Wendy Wu has recently added private touring to their brochure which is perfect for those who prefer a degree of independence and flexibility whilst enjoying the reassurance that all arrangements have been taken care of. If your idea of a touring holiday includes striking landscapes full of natural beauty, vibrant and futuristic cities, historical sites dating back thousands of years and romantic adventure, it is time to call Amity World Travel and discuss the options available to you with one of their long haul travel experts. l

travelfeature

For today’s traveller, the fascination of China lies not only in its historical sites, but also in the amazing diversity of landscapes and variety of ethnic people that one encounters along the way. For many, travel to China is the fulfilment of a dream. The opportunity to explore the Forbidden City, home to one of the greatest empires, The Ming Dynasty; to gaze in awe at an entire army of Terracotta Warriors and to walk proudly on a Great Wall that stretches for over 4,000 miles. And yet these famous sights are only the first steps in discovering this fascinating land. A land of beauty with its poetic landscapes around Guilin, dramatic gorges along the Yangtze and striking mountain scenery in Nine Villages Valley. For the more adventurous, there is the opportunity to travel along the ancient Silk Road or venture overland into mystical Tibet. Yet beyond these great wonders, the most enduring memory is often the charm of the Chinese themselves.

words • jeff kilby

dragonexcitement beckons in the year of the


…21

Whatever your reason for planning a trip

of any kind, you want to be sure that the

arrangements are just right and that you

have the holiday of your dreams. One way

to be certain of this is make Amity World Travel your first port of call in order to

discuss your plans. Here, you can be sure

that you will be offered expert advice

and assistance in putting together your

perfect holiday.

Amity World Travel has been trading

since 1970 and has been based at its

current location in Segensworth since

1994. This unusual location for a travel

agency offers a “non shop” setting where

clients are welcome to drop in (often by

appointment), and meet with a consultant

who can take as much time as is needed

to discuss your plans over a coffee,

suggest a variety of options and make

the necessary arrangements in quiet and

relaxed surroundings.

As an independently owned, ABTA and

ATOL accredited company, Amity is able

tailor the widest choice of travel options

match your own personal needs. Through

years of experience they have built direct

relationships with ground handlers and

hoteliers around the world, and they

may be able to offer unique experiences

that you just won’t find in a mass-market

brochure.

Amity World Travel blends old fashioned

qualities of customer service, choice

and impartiality with modern day

booking technology to help give them

the edge over their competition. As the

leisure travel division of one of the most

successful Business Travel Management

Companies in the south of England, their

consultants use the most up to date

reservation technology, and have millions

of “contract” rates for worldwide flights,

hotels and car rental.

Put this together with the 60+ years of

travel experience that Jeff, Sue and Lisa

have between them, and you have a

winning formula that sees clients returning

year after year to put their trust in travel

arrangements planned and booked at

Amity World Travel.

Telephone: 01489 579975

Are you planning a major holiday?

Telephone: 01489 579975 Email: [email protected] Web: www.amitytravel.co.uk4 Manor Court, Barnes Wallis Road, Segensworth East, Fareham, PO15 5TH

China! Relax put your feet up,

Amity Travel have it covered.

Your Local Travel Experts

As members of Advantage, the UK’s leading consortium of independent travel agents, we have the widest choice of tour

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of your dream trip into a tailor-made holiday while you relax, safe in the knowledge that your arrangements are fully bonded.

14 Day Glories of China from £1890 per personincludes time at Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Guilin and Yangshuo

Priceincludeseconomyflightsandfullyescortedtour,allentrancefeesandvisafee,accommodationbasedontwinshare.


22…

This month Solent Life tested the latest Maserati GranCabrio and I

have to admit it’s a test we have looked forward to for a little while. Everything about this car turned heads – everywhere we went. Its Pininfarina styling is purposeful and muscular whilst remaining totally elegant. It is not a particularly small car and, as a full four-seat cabriolet, is actually quite spacious with the rear seats offering very comfortable accommodation with reasonable head and leg room – this is not just a two-plus-two with occasional rear seat space. However, it is of course the experience of being in the driving seat that is the exciting bit. First impressions upon climbing in are that you are entering a real quality environment; flawless materials, meticulously put together with a classic Gran Turismo styling immediately cosset the driver. The first instinct is just to look round admiringly and touch everything – yes even at your fingertips it exudes quality and results in an approving nod and a smile of satisfaction. With more than enough seat adjustments, the perfect driving position was easily found; the steering wheel was more upright than is usual, but this is just an observation

and I found it to be quite pleasing. The control buttons for all of the various devices and options are spread across selected areas of the dashboard but, rather than this being disorganised, all of the controls were quite intuitive and without any direction or reference to a handbook, all was perfectly comfortable in no time. Turn the key and the 4.7litre 450bhp V8 engine explodes into life, immediately the hairs on the back of the neck are standing up, this is magic – pure automotive music to the appreciative. The engine drives the rear wheels though a six speed ZF automatic gearbox with no fewer than 4 different gear changing modes ranging from fully automatic to manual, which can be operated either using the gearshift in a forward/backward movement to select gears sequentially or by using the ‘flappy paddle’ change mounted on the steering column. These modes are complemented by ‘SPORT’ which make things more responsive and ‘ICE’ for slippery conditions. This is not a car that wants to run away with you – despite the horsepower available, its delivery is beautifully controlled and driving can be leisurely and relaxed if you want. If you need a bit more, then just squeeze the accelerator pedal – and without any drama you can have as much power as you need – effortlessly. Cabriolet roofs often are a compromise

and have restricted vision, but with the GranCabrio, the all round visibility with the roof up was impressive without large blind spots in the rear quarters. The sound deadening in the roof also worked well and, whilst not silent, maintained a relaxed, subdued, ambient noise level in the car. Handling was amazing. The suspension set-up is perfected to give truly sporting handling which, in other performance cars, seems to require bone jarringly hard settings; this Maserati soaked up bumps and irregularities in a variety of road surfaces with all the aplomb of a luxury limousine. Before driving the car, I had a preconception of it being a high performance, race bred, sporting, muscle car - but I was wrong! This car is a beautifully built, sophisticated touring car with as much performance as you need; whenever you want it. The performance figures confirm that it is indeed a car that comfortably fits the ‘supercar’ category but without that overt racy feel. Supercars often are extreme and whilst amazing fun, can be difficult, demanding or even impractical to drive every day and often relegated to live under a dustsheet in a garage to be brought out at the weekends. The comfort, the amazing suspension (I really rated that), and the effortless way it delivered its performance made this a car that can be enjoyed every day and is so pleasurable to live with. l

Maserati conjures up images of an amazing heritage that reaches back 95 years; it evokes memories of the racing greats like Stirling Moss and Juan Manuel Fangio who frequented the winners circle in Grand Prix racing with Maserati during the fifties. This name has greatness in its DNA!

words • dave hill & janet grimm

roadtest

balancedperfectly


His summary

A quality, very able sophisticate rather than just fast and furious. I gave the keys back with great reluctance.

…23

The Maserati GranCabrio arrived home to squeals of delight from

the male members of the family and the sound of phone camera shutters echoed in the driveway as picture messages were sent to their entire phone contact list and now I can officially be listed as the coolest wife and Mum around! As the boys wandered round the Maserati and explored its elegant features I seemed to have Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May at my house – guess who got to play The Stig! Since beginning these car reviews I have discovered a love of Italian cars so it was really exciting to be driving an Italian supercar and I wasn't disappointed. This car is everything a car should be; luxurious, comfortable, fast and noisy but overall; so very driveable. Although my entire family doesn't fit in at once the GranCabrio is a surprisingly practical family car with plenty of room for four adults to travel comfortably. The boot in the soft top version of the car is too small for family luggage and for the shopping but is perfect for the kind of shopping a girl driving one of these should do- a pair of LK Bennett’s and a Mulberry handbag would fit in perfectly! Park this car at the supermarket and it attracts so many admiring stares that it would be a shame to ruin the dream by putting bread, milk and toilet roll in the back! This car has been designed as a luxury

tourer and that is exactly what it should be used for. It just begs to be driven on a Sunday afternoon tour of the New Forest and proves to be fabulous at low speeds, and even at higher speeds; just incredible. The engine noise is music to the ears and this car needs to be driven with the top down, even in minus temperatures, to hear its exhaust’s musical output. As dusk fell and it began to rain it was a real wrench to stop driving and park up this beautiful machine. Like Dave, I found the suspension set up to be excellent and this was puzzling because it is rare for Dave and me to agree on this. Further investigation led to me discovering that the Maserati uses its innovative ‘skyhooks’ technology; an intuitive suspension system which adapts to each drivers style of driving. In fact Dave and I enjoyed completely different suspension set ups, perfect for our individual driving styles; pure genius! Now I am realistic enough to know that our editor isn't going to buy me a Maserati as a company car anytime in the near future, and the family budget won't quite stretch to it but hey; a girl can dream! To help those dreams along take a look at the Maserati website www.maserati.co.uk where you will find a great feature that enables you to deign your own personalised car. So if you ever see a bright yellow GranCabrio with red leather upholstery, the music turned down low and the roof down in Locks Heath-you'll know who has won the lottery!! l

Her summary

A comfortable, surprisingly practical and easy family supercar. Look out for the yellow one - I want it!!

The Maserati GranCabrio is available from the Local Maserati Dealership:

Meridien Modena 77 High Street, Lyndhurst, Hampshire.

Telephone: 02380 283404 www.meridien.co.uk



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26… •JANUARY2012•solentlife.co.uk

We have all become familiar with this image of Vinnie Jones over the last few weeks and many of us will instantly recall the important message from the clever, and powerful, British Heart Foundation advertisement in which he stars, and hopefully we may have the confidence to administer hands only CPR, hard and fast, to the Bee Gees’ tune 'Staying Alive', even when faced with the most frightening scenario possible, somebody dying before our eyes.

words • janet grimm

carterdavies

ali estaying

It was the sad story of a group of people who did not have the confidence, or knowledge, to save a child dying in a school corridor which inspired

Pippa Davies and Jane Carter to found Carterdavies Professional First Aid Training. Their research when starting the company showed there were other first aid training providers but with their combined 36 years experience in emergency medical care, including roles as a Paramedic, Senior Operating Department Practitioner and Resuscitation Officers, Pippa and Jane knew that they could confidently train others to do something to make a difference by creating a slightly different style of first aid training. The aim of this fledgling company is to provide bespoke first aid training courses that are thorough and of the highest quality delivered in comfortable surroundings which are conducive to a good learning experience. Their courses take place at the Lysses House

Hotel, High Street, Fareham where delegates can enjoy a peaceful learning environment, quality refreshments and an excellent lunch. With real-life experience of resuscitation and emergency care, Pippa and Jane are credible and confident instructors dedicated to ensuring that their courses are all about learning how to make a difference and not just about ticking a box on a form, getting a certificate or filling a gap on a C.V. Carterdavies offer a range of first aid courses. For employers, the most sought after session is the ‘HSE 1 day Emergency First Aid at Work’ course. Other courses offered range from Adult Basic Life Support to Medical Emergency training in professions where Continued Professional Development verification is required. Each course is tailored to the participants’ needs, whatever their background, so a group of school employees may learn slightly different skills to a team from a building site or factory. Because the groups are always small and

manageable Pippa and Jane are able to facilitate participation and practice for each delegate and everybody is fully supported. The atmosphere and setting, as well as the calm and friendly approach of Pippa and Jane, ensure that even the most shy or reluctant soon participate enthusiastically. Carterdavies Professional First Aid Training courses at Lysses House Hotel are available throughout the year at competitive rates. Course charges include training, certificate, lunch, refreshments and parking. If preferred, and if suitable training facilities are available, Pippa and Jane can design and deliver a course at business premises too - call them for further details. Like Vinnie in the advert, let Pippa and Jane teach you a lesson you'll never forget. Its not as hard as it looks, and, according to the British Heart Foundation, with over 30,000 people going into cardiac arrest outside hospital every year in this country, its possible that, one day, you may need to know how to ensure that they are 'Staying Alive'. l

Carterdavies Professional First Aid Training – see website www.carterdavies.com for course

dates and details, further information and availability 07594 638872.Teaching you the skills to save lives.

Find out more…


As employees, apprentices earn a wage, and work alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific skills. Off the job,

usually on a day-release basis, apprentices receive training to work towards nationally recognised qualifications. Anyone living in England, over 16 years-old and not in full-time education can apply. Apprenticeships can take between one and four years to complete depending on the level of Apprenticeship, the apprentices’ ability and the industry sector. The minimum salary is £2.60 per hour; however, many apprentices earn significantly more than this minimum. Unlike the old Apprenticeship the modern equivalent is open to all age groups above 16 years-old whether you are just leaving school, have been working for years or are seeking to start a new career. This is not an ‘easy option’ as the competition for places can be fierce, so candidates will need to show commitment, and be fully aware of responsibilities to both themselves and the company who would employ them. They will also need to be happy to work as both part of a team and individually. The Modern Apprenticeship is devised by the people within industry to enable them to get the best candidates who will eventually become the new workforce, so this is as

important for the company employing them as it is for their personal self-belief and confidence. As an employee they will be in employment for most of the time as the majority of training takes place on the job; further training will be at a local college or a specialist training organisation. This off-the-job training can be completed either on day release or over a number of days in a block. The amount of time spent varies according to the specific Apprenticeship. It could be anything from one day every other fortnight to two days every week. All the topics and subjects that are studied will add knowledge and experience that will not only be useful in the everyday job but will help with success in a future career. Apprenticeships are increasingly recognised as the gold standard for work-based training. There are currently over 100,000 employers offering Apprenticeships in more than 160,000 locations; there are more than 200 different types of Apprenticeships available offering over 1,200 job roles. So there is something to suit everyone and help find a career with a real future and a set of skills that offer a new and better way of life. Remember, apprenticeships are now for everyone and there is pretty much something that is right for just about anyone and can open the way to a skilled working life. l

The old image of an Apprenticeship is of a young 16 year-old grease monkey cleaning the mechanics tools and going to the chip shop for him at lunchtime. In days gone by the apprentice motor mechanic would have been lucky to see an engine let alone work on one! But today the Modern Apprenticeship is for anyone and everyone wanting to learn a new trade or skill – and getting paid whilst learning.


apprenticesthe source of

solenteducation

To discover more about Apprenticeships and to discover if it is what you have been looking for then look out for events in the Solent Life area as preparations are well underway for this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, taking place from 6th to 10th February. This event has had tremendous success over the last four years and it is expected that this year will be even bigger and better. Everyone with an interest in Apprenticeships across the country is encouraged to get involved in the Week. For more details of events, Apprenticeships and the answers to many of the questions you have, go to…www.apprenticeships.org.uk

Find out more…

28…

childcare


Call us on 01489 577778 or visit our website

www.fpchildcare.co.uk

A Quality Day Nursery

9 Ofsted Outstandings

Futurepath Childcare Limited. Warwick House, Beacon Bottom, Parkgate, Southampton, SO31 7GQ

careyour child’s

is our pathway to success

July 2011 saw a new children’s Day Nursery open its doors for the first time in Park Gate, offering quality childcare for all, in the surrounding areas. ‘Futurepath Childcare’. Solent Life was chosen as the preferred reporters for Jacky and Peter’s vision. Some 6 months later they have now achieved a status of being in the top 3 day nurseries in the local area, with 9 ‘yes 9’ outstandings in their first Ofsted inspection.

Jacky and her team have created an exceptional environment with staff completely dedicated, passionate and having fun mentoring and teaching the children in what has to be said is a magical place.

In the baby room, parents have been overwhelmed by the nurturing and professional standard of care their child receives. All the highly qualified staff including Peter (who produces a fact of the day !), are immensely proud to be part of something where the standards of care are so high and maintained. Children are treated to an exciting day in the older room, where they freely flow between the suite of rooms and the outdoor space, craft activities and imaginary play, all this leads to a great learning experience. Parents come from all over the county including, Portsmouth, Botley, Bursledon, Fareham, Havant and central Southampton, just to be part of it. Jacky, Peter and the Futurepath team have created the dream. l

Here are some quotes from the report…

‘Children's well-being is paramount.’

‘The nursery has exceptional leadership driving improvement.’

‘All children clean their teeth after meals.’

‘The nursery is very well presented, clean, bright and stimulating.’

‘Children enjoy and greatly benefit from the healthy and nutritious meals provided.’

‘Management demonstrate high aspirations for quality.’

‘Parents report they are extremely happy with the high levels of care their children receive and the good progress they make.’

Taking each step

with a smile

“”

…29

Thinking of a career in the Performing Arts? Then find out what Fareham College has to offer.The Performing Arts and Music facilities have had £150,000 invested in them and now boast a rehearsal studio and Apple Mac suite. These have helped the students develop by giving them a new outlet to practise in as well as additional computers.

The College has also welcomed guests from the Academy of Live and Recorded Artists based in London. This prestigious stage school conducted outreach auditions to save students both money and time of getting to London. They also performed to the students and offered advice on how to get into the industry.

Another guest has been actor, Mitch Hewer, who played Maxxie in hit E4 show, Skins. Mitch, who has starred in Britannia High and has been auditioning in Hollywood, came to the College to hold a Masterclass and Q and A session.

For those interested in screenwriting and producing, advice was given from the co-writer of several Wallace and Gromit features, Bob Baker, who has won BAFTAs, an Oscar and numerous other awards for his work. During his visit, he helped students with their own screenwriting ideas and informed them of who to contact in the industry to get their work seen.

If you love being on stage in front of an audience then what are you waiting for? Look out for information on the website about the forthcoming production, Twelfth Night. To find out more about the performance and courses, call (01329) 815200 or visit www.fareham.ac.uk.


Be at the front of the class – a career in teaching is within your reach Have you ever thought that you would love to share the knowledge and life experience that you’ve gained throughout your education or career with other adults?

Itchen Sixth Form College on Middle Road, Southampton, offers a range of Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector courses, with

qualifications awarded by Greenwich University, to give you the knowledge, qualifications and experience to teach over 19s.

Adult learner, Sally Howlett, is currently studying the Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS), “I started the teaching courses because I felt ready for a career change. I’d wanted to take my PGCE for many years but I was unable to travel any distance due to other commitments. Itchen provided a convenient local option which gave me the flexibility to study at times that suited me. I have found studying as an adult both enjoyable and meaningful. Learning within a group has helped keep me focused and motivated and the independent study allowed me to work at my own pace, with support always available if I needed it.”

The skills and knowledge Sally has gained have allowed her to fulfil her ambition to teach and she now teaches Functional Skills English and Maths to adult learners at Itchen. She said “I would like to continue teaching Functional Skills since I find it rewarding and worthwhile. I would also like to teach Law because it would make use of my previous qualifications and experience.”

If, like Sally, you would like to consider a career in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector, simply contact Itchen’s Adult Education team on 023 8044 6156 or email [email protected] your ‘New Year, new improved you’ activities might be much easier than you thought!

30…

Many Schools claim to have a strong “family-orientated ethos”, but

few can match the strength of the “family feel” at The Gregg School

in Southampton.

Maybe it’s because Townhill Park House, the School’s main building,

was once the family home of Lord and Lady Swathling, or perhaps

it’s the School’s small size – there are currently 310 students on roll

- which gives it such a unique atmosphere. Whatever the reason, it’s

clear that students at the independent senior school value the close

relationships which exist not only between themselves, but also with

their teachers – relationships which were given an “outstanding”

accolade by the Independent Schools’ Inspectorate.

The School prides itself on providing a high quality education,

tailored to the needs of individual students. Unlike most

independent schools, The Gregg does not select students on the

basis of academic ability. Entry to the School is via an Entrance

Assessment, the results of which are used to ensure students are

placed in the most appropriate teaching group. Expectations

are high in all areas of school life, and in public examinations,

students of all abilities achieve high grades which are usually above

benchmark predictions.

Visits from prospective students and parents are welcomed

at all times of year, and the School also invites applications for

scholarships and bursaries. For further information, please visit

the School’s website: www.gregg.southampton.sch.uk


“Family Feel” at The Gregg School

Choosing the right school for your son or daughter can ensure they have a successful start in life. Meoncross School is a thriving independent, co-educational school where pupils consistently achieve at least 5 A*-C GCSE passes. The school welcomes children aged 23/4 to 16 and aims to provide a well-rounded academic, social and personal education. Small classes throughout the school allow individual tuition and care; and children flourish in bright, warm, friendly surroundings. In the Kindergarten, the emphasis is placed on learning through play with a gentle introduction to reading, writing and numeracy. Once in Primary School, firm foundations in English, Maths and Science are established whilst specialist staff deliver lessons in PE, French, Music, R.E. and ICT. Study in the Senior School supports and stretches each pupil, ensuring they leave with a strong GCSE base. Subjects are taught in small groups, thereby offering specific guidance within a structured, purposeful and stimulating environment. The curriculum is enriched with Sport, Drama, Music, international study visits and trips to relevant museums and theatres. The School has an ethos of welcoming children of all ages at any stage of their schooling. Pupils are invited to enjoy a ‘Discovery Day’ and parents are encouraged to tour the school and meet for an individual visit with the Headmistress, Jenny Clough. For further information about Meoncross School, and to book a tour, please contact Mrs. Lorraine Orridge, Registrar, on 01329 662182 or visit www.meoncross.co.uk


{T} 0800 9177 463{M} 07590 396 031

l Adult & baby classesl Child lessonsl ASA instructorsl FREE Certificates

Venues include: Nuffield Health Club / Springfield / Quindell Golf & Country Club

{E} [email protected] {W} www.GBallSwimSchool.co.uk

Our next Open Morning for the Kindergarten and Infant School is on Saturday, 10th March from 10am to 12 noon.

Whynotcheckusoutonline?

Scan the QR code on your smart phone for a direct link to the Solent Life website! Keep up to date on the move, read this months features and enter our competition! Visit our website at: www.solentlife.co.uk

there’s an app for that...

A L S O A T : W I C K H A M • F A R E H A M • B I S H O P S W A L T H A M • S T U B B I N G T O N

hmhairdesigngroup

Aveda Full Spectrum™ colours are like an artist’s palette, giving your Aveda hair colourist the tools to create rich, vibrant, customised colour to suit your needs. Beautiful colour, unlimited creative possibility.Park Gate • Middle Road Tel: 01489 572291

32…

Simply Me Beauty Salon in the High Street, Southampton, specialises in creating a spa experience with all the convenience of a salon, offering high quality and innovative treatments.

The owner and founder Sophie Sexton, spent seven years as a therapist, gaining the experience and knowledge she considers essential, before opening her own salon based at the same location as Lisa Edwards Hairdressers.

In just two years Simply Me has gained accolades from the Beauty Industry, and now has three therapists offering a full range of treatments in each of the three fully equipped treatment rooms.

Salons such as Simply Me have to rely on building a good reputation, Sophie and her team at Simply Me have worked hard to ensure their clients have a relaxing, professional experience when visiting the salon. They only use quality products such as the Dermalogica brand. In fact such is the reputation of her salon it has meant that even in the current economic climate the businesses is expanding with a second salon having recently opened in Reading.

Not only does Sophie rely upon the good reputation of the salon, but also on the marketing and promotion of the business. This has ensured that the business has continued to evolve, the beauty business moves at a fast pace and Simply Me salons offer all the

‘beauty basics’, such as good skin care treatments, facials, together with the latest trends such as MYscara, a new semi permanent mascara, voted the best new beauty treatment for 2011 by Beauty Finder Members, it’s a revolutionary beauty treatment currently taking the beauty industry by storm. The MYscara product is a safe, eye friendly lash coating, that can be layered up until the desired effect. It will look like traditional mascara but lasts weeks. It won’t smudge or budge no matter how much you get them wet. It is aimed for the natural lash, giving volume, curl and definition.

The humble manicure has moved on too, GELerations is another treatment offered by Simply Me, proving to be a huge hit with clients. The GELerations manicure lasts for weeks, is high shine, and comes in a stunning array of colours or of course a classic French manicure.

Anyone wishing to visit the salon will receive a 20% off their first visit, by quoting ‘Solent Magazine’. To see all the treatments offered and to get tips and advice off the Simply Me blog, visit the website: www.simplymebodycare.co.uk. Simply Me is also on Twitter @SimplyMeB and Facebook, just search ‘Simply Me at Lisa Edwards’. Simply Me can be found in Lisa Edwards Hairdressers Salon, 154 High Street, Southampton, SO14 2BT. For advice or bookings please contact the salon on 02380 238080 or email [email protected].

health&beauty


Recieve £5 off any colour

service with this advert

Welcome to Simply Me @ Lisa Edwards

Simply Me @ Lisa Edwards 154 high street Southampton so14 2bt

02380 238080 simplymebodycare.co.uk

20% OFF when quoting Solent Life

Magazine

Whynotcheckusoutonline?

Scan the QR code on your smart phone for a direct link to the Solent Life website! Keep up to date on the move, read this months features and enter our competition! Visit our website at: www.solentlife.co.uk


63 Southampton Road, Park Gate, Southampton, Hampshire SO31 6AHT: 01489 581158 | F: 01489 582220 | E: [email protected]

www.titchfielddental.co.uk

“Incredible amounts of time are devoted to individual patients,” David Houston, head of the judging panel.Discover how a patient-led practice can make a difference to your dental experience and the health of your mouth. If you are anxious about visiting the dentist, look no further than Titchfield Dental Health.

Call us now on 01489 581158Look out for the green and white picket fence.

Winners of Best Patient Care Private Dentistry Awards 2011

NEW YEAR OFFERS at TITCHFIELD DENTAL HEALTH

Have you always wished you could have straighter teeth?

Clare Chavasse is offering free of charge consultations for short

term adult orthodontics (usual price £140) – you could have

straight teeth before your next check up is due!

Clare is a recognised provider of the Six Month Smile programme.

Do you want whiter teeth?

Now is the time to book a free of charge consultation for

whitening and if you are suitable claim your half price whitening

(usual price £470).

Have you got uncomfortable, ill fitting or unnatural looking dentures?

Come to Judith Deeprose for a free of charge dentures

assessment (usual price £90).

Want to reduce the wrinkles?

Nicky Wright offers a free of charge Botox consultation (usual

price £90). If you are suitable there is a half price offer until

February 29th (usual price for 1 area = £140 2 areas = £220

3 areas = £280).

We also carry out general dentistry!! Come along for a cuppa and a look around before you commit

to making an appointment and see for yourself why we are the

current holders of the “Best Patient Care” award!

…33

Discover the Secret toSuccessful Slimming with ‘Virtual Gastric Band Surgery’! The specialist team at the Hampshire Hypnotherapy Centre will show you the secret to easy, lasting, weight loss with the unique ‘EASY LOSS PROGRAMME’ or ‘VIRTUAL GASTRIC BAND SURGERY’

“If you’ve decided that you want to lose weight, then you’ve come to the right place!” says Sue. “We will help you lose the weight you no longer want. Now you can put an end to your weight problems and quickly become slimmer, fitter, healthier and happier.”

With our specialised hypnotherapy programmes it is possible to lose your unwanted weight just by changing the way you make your eating decisions… no starving yourself, no calorie counting and definitely NO FAD DIETS.

Call TODAY on 0800 970 4776 to arrange your Free ‘Easyloss’ Initial Consultation or ‘Virtual Gastric Band ‘Consultation just £50.00 (Usually £75) if booked before 29th February 2012 and discover how you can enjoy losing weight and get the slim figure you dream of – or visit our website at www.hantshypno.co.uk

Wanted – Smokers Who Want To Stop Smoking… Forever!! You can join the 100s of Non- Smokers who have successfully given up smoking with help from Stop Smoking specialist James Holmes just by calling on 0800 970 4776 TODAY. You will kick the habit in just one life changing session. Imagine how.

Don’t miss out! Call James TODAY on 0800 970 4776 or visit our website at www.hantshypno.co.uk and find out how easily you can Stop Smoking and take back control of your life!


Houghton Lodge & GardensOverlooking the River Test with beautiful gardens, Houghton Lodge is a romantic 18th century Grade II* house for stylish and exclusive weddings. North Houghton, Stockbridge, SO20 6LQ

T: 01264 810502 • www.houghtonlodge.co.uk


solentweddings

Although spring, and the months leading toward sunnier days, can be a beautiful time of year, the weather can be a little unpredictable; which may explain why this time of the year is third in the popularity stakes for a wedding day. Rather than this putting a dampener on your plans it may well be what nudges you toward naming the day.

words • janet grimm

spring surprises

It is a beautiful time of the year when Mother Nature is at her best and freshest; spring is seen as a time of re-birth and rejuvenation. It is the time of year when spring flowers can be seen bringing the first splashes of colour back to the landscape.

In purely practical terms this is a good time to plan your wedding as, especially if you are looking for a church wedding, you may well be able to book for Easter time, with all the themes that offers especially when it comes to guests’ ‘favours’. You will probably also discover that it is a little easier to book venues. On the down side, the weather at springtime can be a little changeable, but your ensemble can also be changeable by adding a bolero top or even a luxurious cape to match your wedding dress. Also it could be worth adding that little extra to your outfit, such as flowery wellies for under your dress and a bridal brolly in case of minor downpours – offering a fun option for your wedding photos as well as keeping your extremities dry…

stubbington village florist

Helena at Stubbington Village FloristWe are a local florist, offering a friendly professional service. Whatever your style – vintage inspired, modern, traditional or just simply elegant, we will work with you to create tailor made beautiful flowers for your special day. We offer a bespoke design service with a free no-obligation initial consultation, ensuring that all your requirements are met & any budget catered for.

T: 01329 667833E: [email protected]

17 Stubbington Green • Stubbington • Fareham • PO14 2JG

Dancewear of FarehamBeautiful Bridesmaid dresses, Wedding shoes & handbags plus a complete colour matching satin shoe & handbag dyeing service. available at Dancewear of Fareham. 3a High Street Fareham PO16 7aNT: 01329 829393 • www.todance.com

The Engagement Ring Studio & Wedding Ring Studio in Southampton. Let Couples Design the Perfect Ring for their Special Someone Southampton’s Engagement Ring Studio & Wedding Ring Studio give customers step-by-step help to design their very own rings from over 20,000 stones and more than 1000 settings. The new-concept shop opened in May 2011 to introduce greater choice and individuality of engagement, eternity and wedding rings. Managing Director Chris Nash spotted a gap in the market after struggling to find a suitable engagement ring himself.When customers choose the bespoke or design-your-own services, experienced assistants guide them through the design and selection processes. This guidance includes how to judge diamond quality and how to select a ring setting that best suits the client’s taste, stone choice and budget. Each couple’s rings are unique. The Engagement Ring Studio & Wedding Ring Studio is located at 196 Shirley Road, Southampton, SO15 3FL. Customers can see sample designs at www.theringstudio.com or visit the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ring-Studio-SouthamptonSouthampton’s ONLY dedicated

Engagement, Wedding and Eternity ring shop.

l An extensive range of rings l A FREE design service l A specialist shaping service (if required)

With the undivided attention of one of our expert consultants we can find you your perfect ring.

Appointments welcome but not always necessary. Please visit us at 196 Shirley Road, Shirley, Southampton, SO15 3FL or call us on 0845 388 8873.

www.theringstudio.com

Luv FlowersLuv Flowers specialises in wedding floristry that will set your big day apart.Unique and innovative flower designs from vintage to contemporary.Stunning flowers for the small and intimate, to the very grand.Friendly help and advice at competitive prices

T: 01489 795240www.luvweddingflowers.co.uk


Join us for our OPEN WEEKEND Sat 11th & Sun 12th February

10am to 4pm

View the new Spring/ Summer collections for Mother of the Bride & Groom & Wedding

guests in sizes 10 to 28 & enjoy a complimentary glass of

Bucks Fizz.

School Road, Fawley Village Southampton SO45 1EA

Tel: 02380 894500 Open 9am to 5pm Mon – Sat (normal opening hours)

www.charismafashions.com

No.1 FOR MOTHER OF THE BRIDE

Ladies Designer Fashion

We specialise in outfits for

Mother of the Bride, Mother of the Groom

and other guests

2012 Stock Now InMatching hats,

Renata shoes & handbags. Stockists of Condici,

John Charles & Many More

www.davinasladiesfashion.co.uk

Over 250 outfits in stock Sizes 8-20

71 High Street, Fareham, PO16 7BB

01329 826123

Want to fit into that dream dress? Why not take the stress out of losing those extra inches and try the latest guarenteed inch loss treatment. Strawberries & Cream laser lipo is a non-surgical painfree treatment which guarantees inch loss in just 8 sessions.

Call now to book a FREE consultation and trial session and see the results for yourself after just 1 session. Limited spaces available. Also available, the latest CACI non-surgical Facelift, Bust lift, ‘Pippa Bum’ & Cellulite treatments.

Call now to book an appointment. Main No: 08445 447898 Lisa… 07917 104777 Nikki… 07867 897662

Getting Married?

BEFORE AFTER

50% off RRP for all brides to be against courses of laser lipo treatments booked and paid for in February ready for your big day. 25% off for other bridal party members.

Martin Lewis PhotographerWedding and special event photographer. a modern blend of traditional and relaxed documentary photography. Flexible packages and a high quality, yet affordable service. Storybook, coffee table and traditional albums and images on disc options.

www.martinlewis.biz T: 01243 389 803M: 07761 157 296

Inspiration Cakesat Inspirations Cakes we offer a comprehensive consultation service, including tastings of a variety of sponges and a rich fruit cake. T: 01489 896662 / 893883E: [email protected]

Forever Wedding RingsSouthampton’s only dedicated Engagement, Wedding and Eternity ring shop. Offering an extensive range of rings, a FREE design service, a specialist shaping service (if required).196 Shirley Road, Shirley, Southampton, SO15 3FLT: 0845 388 8873.

Little LimosFor an unusual and different way to arrive at your wedding venue, take a trip in our converted London taxis. Proof that size doesn’t matter! Little Limo has attended PMN Wedding Fayres since 2008 and they get bigger and better every year.T: 02392 797432 facebook.com/littlelimo


Personal hairdressing service also specializing in weddings, social occasions, proms, theatreSalon opened September 2010 at: 50 Columbus Drive, Admirals Wood, Sarisbury Green, Southampton SO31 7LW Telephone: 0753 0170 860 (appointments only)l Fully qualified and insured l Customer loyalty discount cardOpen: Monday – Friday • Wednesday evenings Saturdays: for weddings and special occasions only

Hairdressing

springbrides

Weddings of DistinctionDedicated to Spectacular Weddings, Corporate Events and Balloons. all within your budget. Hours: 10.00 to 4.00 most days. Preferably by appointment.

20,North Cross Street Gosport, Hants PO12 1BE

T: Show Room 023 9250 1554 M: 075 0399 8933E: [email protected]: [email protected]

Viva Las Vegas Fun CasinoSurprise your family & friends with the Ultimate Wedding Entertainment for all ages. Fantastic ice breaker. Prizes for the winners.

Professional, friendly, experienced family team providing an exceptional service to complement your special day.

T: 01202 762339 E: [email protected] www.vivalasvegasuk.com

Nigel Copcutt PhotographyYour wedding day is a wonderful expression of your love for each other which will go by in the blink of an eye.We will photograph your wedding day as it is intended to be - romantic, spontaneous and fun.T: 02392 571827M: 07831 806690www.nigelcopcutt.co.uk

Luv FlowersLuv Flowers specialises in wedding floristry that will set your big day apart.Unique and innovative flower designs from vintage to contemporary.T: 01489 795240www.luvweddingflowers.co.uk

Finch-Horner Productionsat Finch-Horner Productions we don’t just make wedding videos, we create cinematic masterpieces that you’ll want to watch over and over again. T: 0800 6444 064 E: [email protected] www.finch-hornerproductions.co.uk

Eclipse have been one of the leading mobile disco’s on the South Coast for the past 10 years. a personal, friendly service tailored to your special day, with a reputation that speaks for itself, just look at the customer reviews on our website!

Chris Such ImagesChris Such Images don’t think of themselves as wedding photographers, their Creative Director, Chris Such, is more of a photographic artist who just happens to specialise in shooting weddings.

(023) 9235 6831 [email protected] [email protected]

Elegance Bridal CoiffureT:02392178775www.facebook.com/annettehairandmakeupwww.elegancebridalcoiffure.co.ukTwitter. @BridalCoiffurewww.facebook.com/elegancebridalcoiffure

Mrs BouquetMrs Bouquets, wad established in 2008 by Micah Marshall who has 21yrs experience in the florist trade.T: 07577962658 [email protected]

Wedding Fayres:The Holiday Inn Titchfield Sunday 5th February 2012 Frensham Pond Sunday 12th February 2012 Portsmouth Guildhall Sunday 19th February 2012

Spring Fayres:De Vere New Place Sunday 11th March 2012The Old Thorns Manor Hotel Sunday 13th May 2012The Grand Brighton Sunday 20th May 2012

Summer Fayres:The Pyramids Centre Southsea Sunday 10th June 2012Cams Hall Sunday 1st July 2012Frensham Heights Sunday 22nd July 2012



On the 4th March the pages of those glossy magazines

will come to life at the largest interactive Wedding

event Hampshire has ever seen. Visitors can taste the

most fabulous cakes, smell the most beautiful flowers,

try on the most incredible dresses and even listen to

the very best Wedding entertainment.

There is so much to see and do with more than 140 of the best

Wedding suppliers in the Hampshire area attending.

l 140+ exhibitors

l An amazing atmosphere

l Interactive Exhibitors

l Dedicated Vintage Room

l Hampshire's best Wedding Suppliers

l Entertainment and Performance Room

l Win your Wedding

l Performances all day

l A great day out

It is the ultimate wedding experience with thousands of ideas and

experts for whatever stage of planning the happy couple are at.

Its a fun and inspiring day for all the Wedding party, the bride and

groom-to-be, their mothers, bridesmaid, pageboys, the best man

and even the stags and hens.

The glamorous Wedding show offers various specialist rooms, each

with a unique theme and atmosphere. Whether you are watching

one of five catwalk shows or participating in some of the live

samples offered by hair and beauty experts, newly weds-to-be

will find everything they need for their perfect day.

Further inspirations can be found in the unique Vintage room,

packed full of the very best vintage and vintage style suppliers in

the industry. Visitors can even sit back and relax in the very special

Music, performance and entertainment room which will see a

number of entertainers perform throughout the day.

And of course its not all about the Bride, which is why the

Hampshire Wedding Show will ensure that they have the very best

in groomswear from traditional top hat and tails to contemporary

styles as well as a selection of bridesmaid and flower girl dresses,

mother of the bride , and groom, outfits and occasion wear.

For the first time we are offering our brides the chance to enter

a competition that could win them the prize of a lifetime...

The Wedding of their dreams.

Enter the competition on entry to the show and one lucky couple

will win everything they will need for their perfect day.

The Hampshire Wedding Show is on the 4th March and further

information can be found at hampshireweddingshow.itsadoddle.com or by calling 0800 1588 188 or follow us on Facebook

or Twitter.

From the venue to the menu, from the proposal to the Big

Day, The Hampshire Wedding Show at the University of

Southampton offers excited newly-weds-to-be everything

they need to help them plan their dream wedding. All in

one place, all in one day visitors can choose wedding gowns,

occasion wear, menswear, accessories, favours, cakes,

photography, flowers, gift lists, honeymoon destinations,

stationery, beauty, entertainment, venues and much more.

itsadoddleweddingSHOW

solentweddings

solentbusiness


40…40… •FEBRUARY2012•solentlife.co.uk

OPENALL DAYVALENTINES

DAY MENU

LARGE

PLAY

AREA

To complement our food we have a selection of traditional real ales and an excellent wine list • We serve food all day on Saturdays & Sundays • Succulent sea food, locally caught

(our speciality)• Business breakfast ideal for meetings • Offering superb food lunchtimes & evenings • Extensive a la Carte Menu

ThE Jolly Farmer

Country Innis the place to celebrate any occasion

TRy OUR FARMERS LUNCHTIME SPECIALS & SUNDAy ROASTS

l SuPERB ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES AVAILABLEl TRADITIONAL BREAkFAST SERVED EVERy MORNING

GIFT VOUCHERS from The Jolly FarmerTreat your family and friends to a great dining experience at our Country Inn

PSyCHIC NIGHT Thursday 23rd February. Starts 6pm.

Outside we have a large beer garden & patio area For children we have a purpose built play area

FLEET END ROAD, WARSASHTEL (01489) 572500 / 575118 FAx (01489) 885847)EMAIL: [email protected]

All served with fresh vegetables and potatoes of the day

Bring your loved one or someone elses!

£27.95 per person

DessertsCupid’s Choice of Sweets or Cheeses

Captivating Irish Coffee & Mints

Starters Cupids Crispy Duck Salad with Plum Sauce

Sexy Seafood Chowder served with Melba ToastAmorous Avocado & Smoked Bacon Salad

Tempting Trio of Melon & Saucy Fruits Valentines Salmon Fish Cake with Lemon Mayonnaise

Main CoursesTantalising Tournedos Rossini

(slices of Fillet Steak on a Crouton Topped with Pate Wrapped with Madeira Sauce)Fillets of Saucy Seabass Bonne Femme

Desirable Strips of Chicken in Brandy & Peppercorn Sauce & RiceSeductive Poached Salmon in a Asparagus & Cream Sauce

Lovable Lamb Cutlets in Port & Red Wine SauceRavishing Puff Pastry Case Filled with Cupid’s Creamy Asparagus & Vegetables

ROMEO’S VALENTINES MENUTuesday 14th February 2012

NEW! Internet dating with a personal touch

On Valentine’s Day 2012 an exciting, unique, internet dating service launches in Hampshire, West Sussex and East Dorset.

Harking back to the vintage values of the 1950s, Honesty Dating will help you to find a serious relationship without the pitfalls of traditional internet dating.

Everyone will have a personal consultation before their membership is confirmed.

Compatibility is based on personality profiling carried out by a real life person not a computer. So, although it is based on internet dating, it is with a personal touch.

So often we hear that internet dating does not turn out to be a great experience. By carrying out personal consultations, the Hampshire based innovators behind Honesty Dating are doing everything possible to eliminate the bad experiences.

A profile will only appear online when the consultation has taken place and membership confirmed making this service ideal for professionals such as teachers, solicitors, and medical professionals etc. who would rather not have their profile available for all to see. Especially if their pupils or clients were able to find out that they were looking for a relationship on line.

Joining fees will be waived for clients who join in the first three months. Membership fees are payable and you can join for 3 months, 6 months or a year.

If you are serious about finding your perfect partner and fed up with unsatisfactory internet dating this is the service for you! Send an e-mail to [email protected] and join 'Intro dating' with Honesty Dating today.

valentinesday

☎ 01489 573088Warsash Village, SO31 9HX

BOOK NOW FOR MOTHER’S DAy SUNDAy LUNCH

HOME COOKED SUNDAy LUNCH THREE COURSES £11.95

FROM 12–6PM

SUNDAy MEAT RAFFLE ExCELLENT MEAT & CASH PRIzES 1.30PM

WEDNESDAy IS STEAK NIGHT £6.50 RUMP STEAK & CHIPS WITH A CHOICE OF SAUCE

GOOD WELL KEPT TRADITIONAL ALES

SERVED SuNDay-THuRSDay 12–9pM FRiDay & SaTuRDay 12–10pM

(booking advisable)

F R E S H M E AT S U P P L I E D B y R . O W T O N

…41…41solentlife.co.uk•FEBRUARY2012•

The Elephant Boatyard, Lands End Road, Old Bursledon

Please note our entrance is no longer through Deacons Boatyard,

now approx 100 yds before the Jolly Sailor, for more details please ask at

time of making reservations.

THE ONLY FLOATING RESTAURANT RIGHT ON THE HAMBLE RIVER.

Thursday Night Special 4 Course Inc. Cheese course just £18.95 per head

Lunchtime menu from baguettes & Lighter Lunches to fresh fish & steak

book noW for Valentine’s Day

Open all day SUNdAY with roast at just £8.95!!!

closed mon & tues. open Weds-sat 11:30-2:00pm (lunch) & 6:30 onwards (dinner). sun all day from 11:30am

tel: 02380 402566 www.ferryrestaurant.co.uk

BOOk THE ENTIRE VENUE FOR YOUR CELEBRATION EVENT!

42…42… •FEBRUARY2012•solentlife.co.uk

Reham leaves her Thames Valley home at around four o’clock each morning and arrives at the BBC studios in Southampton an hour later; her first broadcast is at 5.30am.

“I broadcast to Solent, Berkshire and Oxford radio stations as well as serving two TV stations.” She explained. “At 5.15am I open the data from the Met Office and check on things such as predicted temperatures, rainfall etc and then it is time for the conference call with the BBC weather team and the Met Office; to re-affirm what is happening.”Reham is university educated but she, and all the weather presenters, have had Met Office training. “That training is vigorous as it is vital to have an understanding of how the weather works. We also have to have a firm knowledge of the geography of our area, we cover a massive region, over nine counties and we have to look closely at the weather right across that region as well as taking in the fact that we also serve a large sailing community along the coast.”This is not just a case of looking good on screen either, the script is Reham’s. “I interpret the weather; I am a fully trained journalist and am reporting on part of the news, it just so happens that my news is the weather.” Reham said. “There is a great deal of multi-tasking, in the morning briefing I am also preparing my script and getting ready to broadcast.”As we spoke the clocked ticked toward 10am, time for her breakfast hour to come to an end and so we went into the studio and following a minute or two of off-air banter with the main show presenter Reham went to work, a seamless verbal movement from on-air chit-chat to a professional and slick weather report for Radio Solent, only once did she briefly glance at the written script in front of her, it was all in her mind and she reported faultlessly. One-minute Broadcast over and it was out of the radio studio and down to the TV version.A minute does not seem long, but in

broadcasting it is a very long time. Just hold your breath for one minute and time it while counting how many words you can speak in that time, the lack of breathing seems to last for ever.The true difficulty of the job was described when we entered the South Today studio and stood on her weather report spot alongside the curved red couch. “Shortly before my slot I am sat on the couch chatting with the presenter, I then have to move seamlessly and swiftly to the spot in front of my camera and as I take those few steps, being careful not to trip over the camera cables that snake across the floor, the director could be saying through my earpiece that I have to extend my report by 25 seconds, or reduce it, depending on how the show timing is running.” Reham stands a few feet in front of a green screen, there is no weather picture behind her, what we see on our televisions is down to technology. “I do have a large monitor off to my left but to look at that I would have to turn round and that would mean showing my back to the camera, and the viewer, which would be rude and obvious.” So experience and practice show her where to point and indicate with her hands. Another surprise is that there is no autocue!

“I cannot have an autocue because if the timing changes then my script has to change and that would be confusing,” she continued, and then the degree of difficulty rose even higher. “While I am doing my weather report the other presenters are moving around the studio and talking about their next piece to camera, the director is talking all the time in my earpiece and I am pointing at a green wall and reporting from memory.”Ever rubbed your stomach while patting your head? Well, do that while someone speaks into your earpiece and you recite a minute and half of script, from memory, that you wrote only moments before; add to that the complexity of rewriting that script in your head as you are delivering it because you

have been told to cut it or extend it; it is not an easy job!

“It is not just a case of reporting the weather as we see it either, we have to also make it interesting and engaging, because as I have already said, one minute is a long time in broadcasting. We need to make it relevant to each listener, or viewer, as well as localising the report.

“There is no room for a large ego, we are here to provide a service and we value each individual listener or viewer and we do get amazing feedback. I get very upset if I do not deliver to the very best of my ability!

“I have been raised as a perfectionist, and yet weather reporting is not an exact science.” Reham continued. “Because the weather is always changing we have to ‘signpost’ to point the listener toward what is going to happen later in the day or later in the week. It is like delivering the news, but with the news continually changing and needing updating. I am always fascinated by the weather patterns and I have to sift through a mass of information from a global model down to local weather events.

“As I said, it is not an exact science so we must work to different levels of confidence in what is going to happen. For example there may be a 60% chance of rain and this also enables me to use the graphics well; which is also my job to prepare. As a weather presenter I have a lot of information and I am dying to get it all out there and the more complex the weather patterns are, the harder that is.”So the next time you watch the weather, remember, there is someone talking in the presenter’s ear, in a busy studio from a script they have written but cannot see about a changeable science in front of a graphics display that is out of sight and not where the finger is pointing, while trying to make it interesting, engaging, informative and all delivered professionally and with a smile. Easy peasy! l

“I love waking up early to get to a job I love.” BBC presenter Reham Khan was on her breakfast break, half way through her working day and at a time when most of us were only just arriving at our own jobs. “Although I work on both radio and television there is a little more satisfaction from radio as there is more banter with the main show presenters, but also it feels as if radio has a more important job to do especially with people leading such busy lives, they don’t always have time to sit and watch the TV.”

interviewed by david rose-massom

day in the life of

weatherwarning

solentlife’s new series of interviews

…43…43solentlife.co.uk•FEBRUARY2012•

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Tandoori Main DishesTandooriChicken £4.90(2 pieces on the bone) ChickenTikka £6.40LambTikka £6.40ChickenShashlik £6.50LambShashlik £6.70TandooriMixedGrill £7.90

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Biryani DishesAll biryani dishes include a side dish of Vegetable Curry.ChickenorLambBiryani £7.60ChickenTikkaBiryani £8.30ChilliChickenBiryani(Hot) £8.30PrawnBiryani £7.90VegetableBiryani£6.00OrientalChickenBiryani £7.60All dishes in this menu are exclusive of rice unless otherwise indicated.

Medium Curry DishesBhunaChickenorLamb £5.50ChickenTikkaCurry £5.50SagChicken £5.70With spinach ChickenorLambDupiaza £5.70 With fried onion and garlic toppingChickenorLambRogonJosh £5.70With fried tomato and garlic toppingMethiChicken £5.50With fenugreek leafChicken&MushroomCurry £5.20

Mild Dishes The following dishes are creamy and very popular. A good choice for newcomers to Indian cusine.ChickenTikkaMassala £6.40LambTikkaMassala £6.40LambBadamiPassanda £6.40ChickenorLambKurma £5.70PrawnKurma £5.90KingPrawnKurma £8.70ChickenKashmiri(Fruity) £5.50LambKashmiri(Fruity) £5.50ChickenTikkaPassand £5.90With sultana and cashew nutsModhuChickenorLamb £5.40Cooked with organic honey

Seafood Prawn DishesPrawnCurry £6.40PrawnMadras £6.20PrawnPatia £6.40BhunaPrawn £6.40SagPrawn(with spinach) £6.20PrawnDansak £6.40

King Prawn DishesKingPrawnCurry £8.90KingPrawnMadras £8.70KindPrawnDansak £8.90KingPrawnJalfrezy £8.50

Karai Dishes(Spicy with green pepper and onion)KaraiChickenorLamb £5.90KaraiChickenTikka £6.20KaraiPrawn £5.90KaraiKingPrawn £8.50VegetableKarai £4.90

Side DishesSpecialMixedVegetables £2.70BombayPotato £2.70AlooGobi£2.70 Potato and cauliflower MushroomBhaji £2.70DallSamba £2.70Mixed vegetables and lentilsTarkaDall £2.70AlooChana £2.70Chick peas with potatoNiramish £2.70Mixed dry vegetables with green chilliSagAloo £2.70Spinach with potatoSagBhaji £2.70Peppaloo £2.70 Spicy potato and green pepperSagPoneer £2.70

Rice DishesBoiledRice £2.00BasmatiPilauRice £2.50SpecialFriedRice £2.90(Vegetable)MushroomFriedRice £2.90

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Special Meal for Two (A) £19.00 Starters:ChickenTikka&MixedKebabMain Courses:BaltiChicken&ChickenTikkaMassalaSide Dishes:MushroomBhaji,2PilauRice,1NanBread,2Papadoms&1MangoChutney

Special Meal for Two (B) £19.00 Starters:MixedKebab&OnionBhajiMain Courses:ChickenKurma&LambPatiaSide Dishes:SagAloo,2PilauRice,1NanBread2Papadoms&1MangoChutney

The House Pack £16.00 Starters:ChickenTikka&OnionBhajiMain Courses:ChickenKurma&ChickenTikkaJalfrezySide Dishes:1Chips,2PilauRice&1NanBread

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The Furlong Shopping Centre In Ringwood is the ideal destination for discerning shoppers who want to enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience. A stunning selection

of premium fashion, homeware, beauty and food shops nestle around a picturesque courtyard. With free parking for up to 2 hours you can soak up the charming surroundings over a coffee or enjoy a relaxed lunch with friends. A welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Despite tales of doom and gloom in the press about the demise of the High Street and the prospering of out of town centres and online retailers, The Furlong is proud to be bucking the downward trend. With town centre vacancy rates doubling over the last two years, it’s a refreshing change to see new retailers join The Furlong. With its unique blend of independent shops mixed with big retail names, The Furlong has attracted some exciting new stores in 2011 such as Fenn Wright Manson, the Boston Tea Party, The Forge Cycleworks and a new and enlarged AGA Store, all of whom have chosen Ringwood because of its excellent location and accessibility to the South Hampshire/Dorset region. These attributes, combined with its historic market town feel and affluent catchment, make The Furlong an attractive destination for both shoppers and retailers alike. This year there are more exciting developments planned at the centre so watch this space. lwww.thefurlong.co.uk

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A bit about Boston Tea PartyWe are a family owned & award winning small West Country café chain who pride ourselves on serving outstanding coffee & tea as well as creating delicious, feel good & affordable meals with products sourced from ethical & local suppliers whenever possible. Serving breakfast, lunch & tea all day everyday. We are of course very family friendly.

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The Forge Cycleworks is a new bike shop at The Furlong, Ringwood. The ‘Forge’ stocks quality road, leisure and mountain bikes from Trek, Merida and Ridgeback as well as an extensive range of clothing and accessories. The shop also has a comprehensive workshop and bike servicing is carried out by experienced staff who are always happy to provide help and advice.So whether you are new to cycling or a seasoned veteran, The Forge has something for you! Please come and find us at our new store, we guarantee you’ll be impressed!Telephone: 01425 482797Email: [email protected]

…45

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Our Solent Life restaurant revue for this month is an eatery that is celebrating 20 years of serving the people of Park Gate and the surrounding areas.

It is also a restaurant that for all of those years has held onto a great reputation and with good cause.Chef/Proprietor of the Park Gate Tandoori, Anwar Miah, may have been serving great curries for two decades but it is interesting to note that the British link with the spices and flavours of the East go back much further. The history of the association of Indian food and Britain is now almost four hundred years old, starting with the arrival in Surat of the English merchants of the East India Company between 1608 and 1612. The first appearance of curry on a menu was at the Coffee House in London’s

Haymarket in 1773 however, the first establishment totally dedicated to Indian cuisine was the Hindostanee Coffee House in Portman Square in London in 1809. Back to Park Gate and Solent Life editor, Dave Hill, and I had similar ideas for starters; he plumped for the Prawn Puri whereas my choice was the Egg Akuri. The egg akuri carried a lovely aroma that drifted upward with the spiralling steam. To be honest the prawn puri looked more appetising with is bright red tandoori spiced colouring and it also won in the texture stakes because of that ‘pop’ that happens when you bite into a prawn and release its flavour; but when it came to taste the scrambled and spicy egg took first prize with a wonderful tingly hit that just warmed the back edges of my tongue. The ‘fried bread’ carried a tempting little spice hit of its own as well. Two fine appetisers that advertised the tastes and

chuffed with

restaurantreview

dinnerIt is the perfect use of premises, utilising half of a railway station for a restaurant, there is something charming about the concept. Sitting above the railway line watching trains draw into the station platforms; it is just a shame that we no longer have steam trains passing through and adding to the romance.



dinnertextures that were still to come.There is nothing overly pretentious about the décor in the Park Gate Tandoori but it is suitably comfortable. The cuisine is quality but conventional and is traditionally presented rather than attempting to drive appeal purely upon elaborately styled arrangements. That said, there can be few establishments that have so many awards pinned to their walls or standing on their shelves; there are also very few that can boast commendations for consistently high standards in producing good quality and flavourful food. Mention this restaurant to locals and they will all have a favoured dish that they can recommend; I now have mine and sadly it was the one chosen by the editor.Butter Chicken is marinated chicken that is roasted in a selection of tandoori spices with butter and cream, and no, this is not

a diet version! It is a simple dish; nothing special to look at, but dip your fork in the sauce and get a taste of that smooth, rich and creamy coating and the flavour is epic. The chicken is tender and succulent and with that creamy, buttery sauce the flavour is just sensational and very gentle on spiciness.One of the mouth-watering treats when it comes to exotic dishes is the aromas that rise up from the bowls as the food is placed in front of diners and it was a real blend of intoxicating smells that rose from the centre of the table; but, leading the way was the perfumed fragrance that kicked up from my Lamb Dupiazal. The sauce was a little heavier and darker than the butter chicken and very enjoyable. The chunks of lamb were soft and tender and the meaty taste blended well with the onion and in the spice department, although the ‘bite’ came through late it gave a lovely hit to the taste buds. With the current cold snap in the weather this felt like the perfect antidote to winter – a great Lamb Dupiazal.When it comes to hotness I am not very macho with my choice of curries; I find the experience far more enjoyable when each individual ingredient can be tasted and distinguished and it is not just about how much ‘heat’ I can take from the spices. Everything we tasted had just the right amount of spiciness, enough to offer a pleasant tingle and nothing that anaesthetised the tongue.The Bombay Potato was a dry dish with

chunks of well cooked vegetables coated in spices and the Sag Aloo was more about the textures of the ingredients, spinach and potato, than the spices; both great side dishes. The Basmati Pilau Rice was fluffy with the grains being separate and clean, and still carried that nutty flavour rice should have.Everything about the Park Gate Tandoori is traditional and classic; great food, or in the case of the Butter Chicken fantastic food, and good service. All the while I sat there gazing out of the window as the trains went by; I couldn’t help but wish for the romance of a little bit of steam, the hiss as the engines blew their valves, and then the heavy chuff, as the power was forced through the engine to begin its pull out of the station. l

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Claiming to offer a serious alternative to the “stuffier” top-end agencies Director

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Shrubs looking good this month are camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas which will all provide early colour in the garden. They are best planted in ericaceous compost and

will need shelter from the wind. If planted now, their roots can establish before the dryer weather begins in late spring.

If you’re looking for a long-lasting Valentine’s present, the romantic Camellia is ideal. A few varieties to consider:

l Camellia Nicky Crisp is a pretty variety with semi-double flowers and wavy petals surrounding a fresh golden heart. The flowers of this slow growing compact variety are a soft lilac pink.

l Camellia Lemon Drop has white flowers with a lemon centre. It’s very hardy and produces flowers from late winter to early spring.

l Lastly, the Camellia Adorable is a vigorous upright variety that grows up to two metres. A good structural plant, it has double bright pink flowers.

Camellias are woodland shrubs so prefer a partially shaded and protected area. As well as being a good evergreen for the garden, they are one of the few plants that provide a big splash of late winter/early spring colour in the garden.

If your garden soil is not acid, camellias will thrive in a pot or container and you can move them to a shady spot in the warmer months. Give them a regular ericaceous feed – there are several to choose from at Garsons.

I hope your winter bulbs are providing colour and interest. For summer bulb inspiration, pay a visit to the garden centre. I’ve listed below some new varieties available for the first time this year. They will produce a lovely display in your late summer borders or in containers:

l Dahlia Diamond Jubilee has a white flower with a pink blush. It grows to a height of 90cm and will flower all summer long.

l Begonia Odorata Mother's Day is fragrant and suitable for containers or baskets. The large white flowers are tinged with pink.

l Gladioli Capricio is a soft coral pink with a lemon blush, it grows up to 120cm tall and is ideal in the border. It’s an excellent choice for cut flowers.

It’s been a milder winter than we’ve had for a while, which is good news for getting out in the garden and preparing for spring growth. If the ground isn’t frozen, you can establish new shrubs before the dryer weather starts in a few months.

words • anne watson

greenfingersFebruary

greenfingers


Jobs for February gardeners

l Start to prepare your vegetable seed beds. Sprinkle some fertiliser and if you have plastic cloches, cover the ground to help warm up the soil.

l Buy your early potatoes and ‘chit’ them. This means standing them in a light, cool place so they start to sprout before planting in March.

l Prune winter flowering shrubs that have finished flowering.

l Clear fallen debris away from the borders.

Until next month, happy gardening!


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One bird you can always guarantee seeing at Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve is the Mallard – which is probably the most widespread duck in the world. In February their colours, especially those of the males, are at their brightest. This is, of course, because the breeding season is about to start.

words • jess daish-miller images • darin smith & peter hutchins

Mallards enjoy a varied diet which includes seeds and other plant material, insects and even frogs.

It is always tempting to feed them bread but this can actually be harmful to the ducks as it does not contain the wide variety of nutrients found in their natural diet. Bread left uneaten can also harm the lake habitat. The drake’s bright plumage might be used in courtship but he doesn’t take any part in nest-building or rearing the ducklings. The female duck makes the nest from grass, leaves and down. The nests are usually on the ground but can sometimes be up in a tree! The female lays 6-14 grey-green eggs and incubates them by herself. The ducklings hatch after about 26 days and follow their mother into the water as soon as their feathers have dried. Another less familiar duck species is finishing its winter visit to Swanwick

Lakes during February. The Gadwall, an inconspicuous grey-brown duck, is resident all year in the UK but its numbers increase during the winter, as birds from the continent fly here to escape harsh weather. Why not come to Swanwick Lakes to catch a site of the Gadwall before they leave for the summer? l Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve is an 86 acre reserve located on Sopwith Way, off Swanwick Lane. The reserve is owned by NATS and managed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. The reserve is open from dawn until dusk for all to enjoy. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust works to create a better future for wildlife and wild places in Hampshire and the Island. Find out more at www.hwt.org.uk

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at Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve…Swanwick Toddlers – Oscar and the Moth 7 February 2012 10.30am – 12pm or 1–2.30pm

Oscar is a curious kitten who is full of questions about

light and dark. Luckily, Moth can help him with the

answers. Come and join our session of stories, games and

crafts for pre-school children at Swanwick Lakes Nature

Reserve. For further details, please contact Dawn Preston

or Jess Daish-Miller on 01489 570240. Suggested donation

£3 per child. Please wear warm outdoor clothing and

wellies. Booking is essential as places are limited.

An Introduction to Moths (Fareham District Members Group) 13 February 2012 7.30am

An illustrated talk by Phil Budd on moths and the use of

moth traps. To be held in Holy Trinity Church Hall, West

Street, Fareham PO16 0EL. Parking is available in Western

Road or Trinity Street car parks. For further information

please contact Peter Adams on 01329 287653. Suggested

donation £2.

Wild Camp 13 February 2012 10am–2pm

Enjoy a day outdoors at Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve

learning some useful bushcraft skills. Build a shelter, light

a fire safely and make something to take home. This event

is for families with children aged 6 and over. For further

details, please contact Dawn Preston or Jess Daish-Miller

on 01489 570240. Suggested donation £6 per child. Please

bring a packed lunch, warm waterproof clothing and

sturdy shoes or boots. Booking is essential as places

are limited.

Swanwick Lakes Wildlife Watch – Nest boxes 16 February 2012 6.30-8pm

Build nest boxes with the Wildlife Watch group. Wildlife

Watch is a local club for young people who are interested

in wildlife and the environment. To find out more or

to book your place, please call Carly Fretwell on 07733 980980. Booking is essential.

eventsbacktonature

Join us today… …and enjoy the benefits of being a member of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. For more information contact our membership team on 01489 774408.



HISTORIC WALK The next Lee Historic Walk and Talk will take place on Tuesday 7th Febuary, the leader is Ray Harding. Walk will commence at Elmore Car Park Marine Parade East, next to the Fishing Club Compound at 10.a.m. The route is along Lee Promenade to the Old Swimming Pool site and back. Total time is around 90 minutes. Talks, lasting around 45 minutes, to Groups and Organisations can also be arranged for a donation to LoSRA Community Fund. Contact Ray Harding 02392 551706 or email [email protected]

SARISBURY GREEN FLORAL ART SOCIETY It is an exciting year ahead, with monthly professional demonstrations, workshops, talks and visits as well as the opportunity to learn new skills and attend regional and national events. This is a small, friendly club that welcomes anyone interested in making the most of flowers from their garden, the supermarket or the florist. Membership for the year is just £28, or visitors can join in any meeting for £5. Next meeting on February 21st is a demonstration by Denise Bright called, "Magic moments". Meetings will be help at the Sarisbury Green Community Centre, SO31 7AA, on the third Tuesday of the month (except August) from 7pm. For more information, please contact Ailia Ashworth on 01489 579863 or email [email protected]

JOIN MARWELL IN THE RACE TO SAVE WILDLIFE The public can now register for Marwell Wildlife's annual 10K run which takes place on May 20th. Sign up to Hampshire’s unique running event and help raise funds for wildlife conservation and the care of animals in the park. Popular with both competitive long distance and fun-runners alike, the undulating course takes participants through picturesque countryside and past some of the world’s most incredible animals! Children can also dash past the animals, including zebras, rhinos and tigers, in their very own Junior Fun Run, with medals and goody bags up for grabs. All supporters can enjoy discounted entry to the park. Entry Fees: 10k road race £15 – non-club runner; £13 – club runner. Fun run £6 - all runners. Start Times Fun run – 10am; 10k road race – 10:30am. To register visit www.marwell.org.uk Call 023 8069 3989 or email [email protected] The closing date for entries is April 27. The Marwell 10k is jointly organised with Eastleigh Running Club.

WINTER TREES IN THE HAMBLE VALLEY Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust - 19th & 26th February –9.30am - 12.30pm. Different trees have different uses because of the different qualities provided by their timber. Since we normally plant or fell trees in winter, it is very useful, and satisfying, to be able to tell them apart without their leaves. This short course provides a great opportunity to learn and practise identifying (mostly) deciduous trees in winter from the twigs, growth pattern and bark with expert tutor Phil Budd. Part of the first session will be indoors, learning what to look for and how to use keys; then you can try out your new skills on some common wild species

at the Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve. The second session will take place at Holly Hill, Sarisbury where there is a wider range, including some evergreens. Cost £30.00 Book onto a Wildlife and Countryside course? Call 01489 774400 or by email [email protected]

DO YOU NEED INSPIRATION TO LOSE WEIGHT AND GET FIT? Then look no further than a local dog, Max whose impressive weight loss has resulted in him becoming a calendar star for pet food manufacturer Royal Canin. Max is a five-and-a-half-year-old black flat-coated Retriever rescue dog. When owner Tracey Jenvey first took him on, he weighed an astonishing 62kg and has since managed to lose an impressive 26kg with the help of Tracey and Head Veterinary Nurse Julie Trim RVN, from Hedge End Veterinary Health Centre. If you think your dog or cat may need to lose weight, contact your local vet about the Royal Canin diets that are available to help your furry friends find their inner, healthier selves – or visit www.royalcanin.co.uk

BLOOMING BOTLEY Botley has a thriving and popular Gardening Club which is looking forward to another busy year. Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of the month at Botley Market Hall. After its AGM on the 15th February when there will be a talk on a local allotment, there will be talks throughout the year on birds in the garden, foliage in garden design, growing less common fruit and the Eden Project. All this plus visits to a local farm and orchard, and the annual Horticultural Show in September – a major event in the village calendar. New members are always welcome – ring 01489 781155 for more information.

BURRIDGE AND PARK GATE WI Will be meeting at St Margaret Mary Church Hall, Park Gate, on Tuesday 6th March at 7.15pm and Eric Birbeck's topic will be the History of Haslar Hospital. Visitors are very welcome to join in.

‘TIME FOR A CUPPA’ Saturday 11th February, 10am - 12pm, Paterson Centre, Church Road, Swanmore. A coffee morning in support of DementiaUK, come and find out more about Admiral Nurses, and how they can help people with

dementia and their carers. This event is hosted by the Meon Valley Carers Group.

ORGANISE A WALK FOR CANINE PARTNERS National charity Canine Partners, who provides specially trained assistance dogs to people with disabilities, is calling on Solent Life readers to organise a bluebell walk in their area. Now in its ninth year, the Bluebell Walk Campaign has to date raised more than £100,000. Organise a walk in April or May, whilst spring flowers are in bloom and walks can cover any distance and organisers will be provided with a free information pack on how to make the walk a success, as well as merchandise and entry forms. If you would like to get involved and organise a bluebell walk for Canine Partners, please contact Libby Rome on 01730 716013 or visit www.caninepartners.org.uk

GROW YOUR CONFIDENCE FOR PUBLIC SPEAKING Make 2012 your year to ‘banish your nerves and build your skills’, helped by award-winning Solent Speakers. New guests welcome, no charge. This year marks the 10th year of the foundation of this not for profit organisation. In those ten years the club has helped over 400 people acquire and improve public speaking skills, trained charity spokespersons, and helped young people speak publicly in the Prince's Trust Programme and helped Fareham Borough Council at Civic Events. February meetings on 7th and 21st February, starting at 7:15pm Venue: Lysses House Hotel, 51, High Street, Fareham PO16 7BQ. For more information, visit www.solent-speakers.org.uk or call Louise Hockaday, 01329 235923 or 07958 589971.

IF YOU HAVE A LOCAL EVENT Let us know at [email protected] Please note we need 6-8 weeks notice of events.

your essential guide to all the local news and events in your community

community news

February

communitynews


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Support your Local Arts Centre View our Spring and Summer Season of shows for 2012 at your local arts centre. www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com

WHERE: ST MARGARETS ARTS, ST. MARGARETS LANE, TITCHFIELD PO14 4BG.

TIME: START AT 7.30PM. MONDAY TO THURSDAY – £9. FRIDAY & SATURDAY – £11.

DISCOUNTS: £1 OFF FOR STUDENTS, SENIORS, UNEMPLOYED, PARTIES 4+ £1 PER TICKET DISCOUNT.

BOOK 2 SHOWS OR MORE £1 PER TICKET DISCOUNT. SPECIAL RATES FOR SCHOOLS AND PARTIES OF 10+.

BOx OFFICE 01329 556156 OR AT www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com

> 14th – 24th MARCH Noel Coward's scintillating comedy of manners. Full of dazzling dialogue, irresistible one-liners and acerbic wit, it explores the conventional and unconventional ways of being in love.Elyot and Amanda are divorced. Honeymooning with their new spouses ,Sybil and Victor, at the same hotel they encounter each other one evening. Rekindling their passion, they decide to run away to Paris. But can Elyot and Amanda really be together?

> COLDER THAN HERE

> 15th – 25th FEBRUARy A moving comedy of a woman's journey to her grave. One mother’s lifetime passage is winding down to its final destination… a hilarious and powerful story of our human condition.

> PRIVATE LIVES by Noel CowardSee our full Spring Summer listings, why not get a copy of our Theatre Calendar Card to remind you of what's coming up.

Just phone 01329 556156 and we will send you one free of charge.

60…

So tell us about Sister Act – what can the audience expect?

It is a visual spectacle, I am stood in the wings watching the performances and it is great seeing the young performers doing their stuff. It’s a show you cannot get tired of – I am signed up for almost a year on this tour and it is a very funny and touching story, audiences just love it, they get up on their feet at the end of every show.

I have always wanted to do theatre; I started out on the stage, and then took a diversion into television to do Brookside and Coronation Street followed by 6 years in The Royal. I have been very lucky in the business, since Brookside I got to do what I wanted. I have never had a problem with typecasting

– however I am never going to play Hamlet or Superman – there are certain physical attributes that you need!

So does Michael like dressing in frocks since he was on the road playing Edna Turnblad in Hairspray last year and now dons a Cassock for Sister Act?

“You know it’s funny, I have lots of sisters, and when I dressed for Edna for the first time, my youngest sister sent me a text me to say Oh My God you look like me! That was a bit of a shock! When I was rehearsing in Manchester for Hairspray, I was getting used to wearing the high heels – I had asked my wife how do you wear these? – She said you will walk the way you walk – don’t try and put it on. So any time I was alone, I walked around in my hotel room with the shoes on. One time I was practising some dance moves, and there was a knock at the door, and a courier driver was there with a script for me, he glanced down at these bright turquoise shoes. I said, ‘I know what you’re thinking but..’ and he cut me off saying, ‘it’s alright mate, I’ve seen it all before – don’t worry about it!’

solenttheatre

Michael Starke, best known as the cheeky chappie Sinbad from the long running soap Brookside will be starring in the divine comedy musical Sister Act, fresh from the West End in the role of Monsignor O’Hara. We caught up with him in Bristol relaxing in his dressing room with a fresh cup of tea before a matinee of the show.

interviewed by robin hancox

father figure

sister act’s


…61

Becoming that female character in Hairspray was very liberating and you could throw yourself into the role. I initially thought that wearing the cassock in Sister Act may not be as well accepted, but as soon as you put the costume on you are there. There is a great stillness with Monsignor O’Hara – he is kind of centred where I am the opposite. I wonder what my grandmother would have thought. Having had a Catholic upbringing I still have the hang-ups. When I was young I was an altar boy, but not for long as I was always laughing. It was probably my first taste of an audience – having all those people looking at you and performing a role.

Have you been to The Mayflower Theatre before?

My first visit to The Mayflower was in either 1988 or 89 in a show called Be-Bop-a-Lula featuring 60s music. We were on the night after a Bros concert. When we arrived everyone was repairing the seats. We asked what’s going on. They said the kids went haywire last night! Then I came back to Southampton in Anything Goes with Angela Rippon. It is a lovely theatre – perfect for big musicals like Sister Act.

Are you still recognised in the street?

It has been 12 years since I left Brookie, I am amazed people still remember me from it. When you are not on television people ask you if you are still doing acting – even though you may be in theatre all around the country. It is funny, but what I am getting now is younger people coming up to me saying

“my mum used to like you” – so don’t they like me anymore then?


Sister Act runs at The Mayflower Theatre from Tuesday 21 February to Saturday 3 March 2012. Tickets available from mayflower.org.uk or 02380 711811


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64…

New years Day Swim

out&aboutSolent Life has been venturing out across the region to capture and bring to you some images from the notable events of the past few weeks…

words & images • david rose-massom

out&about


More than 300 brave swimmers took to the waters of Stokes Bay, Gosport, for the annual charity swim on a cold, wet and grey New Year’s Day. Over £2,000 was raised for the Gosport and Fareham Inshore Rescue Service (GAFIRS), as well as monies through sponsorship for 30 other various charities. The Mayor of Gosport, Councillor Christopher Carter was one of the first into the chilly and choppy waters.

…65

Moonlit Memories

Romsey Market

Stubbington Health Clinic Open Day

Portsmouth FC favourite Linvoy Primus was the first to sign up for this year’s Moonlit Memories Walk when Rowans Hospice launched the event at sponsors Briscoes offices in Portsmouth. This is the fifth anniversary of the walk which has so far raised £1.25m since it was launched in 2008. The night time walk, there is a 12 mile and 5 mile version, will start at Southsea at 11pm on 16th June and the route passes through the historic dockyard. www.rowanshospice.co.uk for registration and sponsorship details.

Holding an event you’d like us to feature? Simply email details of your event to [email protected] and we will do our best to cover the most exciting and interesting events.

Stubbington Natural Health Clinic is in its 26th year of treating residents in the Solent Life area and they celebrated with staff and clients by expanding into another premises and adding to the treatment space. The Official opening took place in two parts with the Mayor of Fareham, Cllr Trevor Cartwright MBE cutting the first ribbon and his wife Ruth cutting the second ribbon. www.stubbingtonnaturalhealthclinic.com

The known history of Romsey Market dates from as far back as the reign of Henry I (1100-1135). He granted the Abbess of Romsey Abbey the right to hold a weekly market on a Sunday and it was situated outside of the Abbey Gates. The town continued to grow and prosper until the plague, known as the Black Death, struck the town in 1348-9 and killed off half Romsey’s population. Through history the town has had a way of helping itself out of trouble and with Bradbeers, the town’s own department store, along with the support of Lord Romsey, the busy but small market was resurrected. Although small it offers charm and varied trades to the historic market town. Markets are held on Tuesdays and Fridays. www.bradbeers.com



Lover, (pronounced low ver) is a tiny hamlet caught up in the bigger surrounding village of Redlynch and situated on the edge of the

New Forest, on the border of Hampshire and Wiltshire; it is surrounded by beautiful countryside and some magical walks. On a still, cloudy, winter day we explored two of the walks; the first around and across New Forest and National Trust heathland and the second, where we shall begin as it was the favoured walk of the two, through an enchanted woodland filled with birds and mammals. Within moments of entering the woodland reserve it was as if the landscape had become bewitched, the woods became a

fantasy; an enchanted forest. Birdsong was everywhere, nature’s surround-sound. The trees, still stripped of their summer foliage, crowded in on a leaf-strewn pathway, their slim empty branches curving overhead forming a natural archway. Above the branches a sky painted in a dull, grey, layer of undercoat as if waiting for spring to apply a topcoat of blue. Stopping for a breather and to check the clearly signposted footpath markings I noted that the only sounds were those of the birds and of my own breathing. Not a dog barking nor a car engine revving, blissful peace and tranquillity. The narrow, and quite muddy, path twisted and turned and then dropped down a

heath&woodlandwalk

loverenchanted

It is the month of romance, of love and enchantment; so, where to walk at such a special time? Solent Life decided to visit a Lover; and what a beautiful Lover it turned out to be…

words & pictures • david rose-massom


slight incline, at the bottom a shallow brook and over it the most rustic of little bridges, solid and yet giving an appearance of being rickety. Stopping to photograph the bridge I could hear the tap, tap, tap of a green woodpecker. Its pecking is easy to distinguish as it is a much softer sound than the ‘ratatatat’ thrum of our two other native woodpeckers. It was the sound of another bird rustling through some foliage that helped me get a sight of the woodpecker. A beautiful nuthatch fidgeted around a branch covered in bright, green ivy. The clearly defined footpath continued on through the surrounding woodland and it just continued to enchant. A sound from the thick bed of bracken caught my attention and there standing proud was a herd of young fallow deer, about 20 or 30 strong. Lifting my camera I was certain of getting some charming images when out of the brush dashed an uncontrolled grey dog, which startled the timid deer and sent them darting away and deep into the trees. A few seconds later its carefree owner arrived and found the whole scenario amusing, behind him another group of deer, this time around a dozen strong, scattered in the opposite direction. This thoughtless owner was totally unaware of the mayhem he had caused. Apart from that moment of annoyance the walk through the woods close to Lover was enjoyable, peaceful and above all enchanting, as if the wood sprites had offered up some magical charm. The second part of my day was just a few minutes drive away and was more about the open heathland, although parts of the walk

were through pine enclosures, than about enclosed woodland. Turf Hill has a large car park and more than enough room to let the dogs off their leashes and let them run free. It is a popular car park with plenty of walkers no matter what the weather and with footpaths that head off in every direction. One path even leads across to Godshill with its pottery and pub. I followed a broad gravel path and then an even wider grassy runway where it was obvious that horses enjoyed a good gallop from the widely spaced hoof marks in the soft mossy surface. Entering the first of the pine enclosures a murder of crows let fly from the protection of the trees in a broad and noisy cloud of black wings; mysterious and dark against the grey of the sky. In the opposite direction flew a lone jay, beautiful in colour but with its harsh cry like a witch’s cackle. My chosen route followed a dip and traversed a narrow stream before it climbed again and went through a gate and alongside a corral, this time empty of ponies. On the ground a flat piece of wood bore the blackened and burnt practice presses of the branding irons used to denote Commoners’ ownership of the ponies let out to graze freely. As the path reached its low peak the walk once again opened out into a vast area of heathland, this time it was a National Trust area called Hale Purlieu. A local did ask me not to tell anyone of this walk as it was her favourite place to take her two lively dogs. She made me promise to only share it with you!

The circular route can be as long or short as you like but I was so enjoying my walk and the scenery that I stayed out on the footpaths for some three hours, added to the two hour circular route of the enchanted wood it was a long and tiring day – there was need of refreshment. Back in Hamptworth Lane there is a glorious pub, The Cuckoo Inn, years ago I was a regular and little has changed over the years. It has a thatched roof and it is an inn from an era long since destroyed by breweries making all pubs look the same. Inside there are three small bars, filled with nick-knacks and with two tiny serving areas; it is quaint, untidy, cluttered and when busy you will have to pass your empty glass and money over the heads of your fellow drinkers and await for its return. If you want romance on Valentine’s Day, take your lover to Lover and pick any one of the beautiful walks around the village. One word of warning though – just keep in mind that this is a Leap Year!. l

From the A36 follow the signs for Hamptworth Golf and Country Club, then follow Hamptworth Road past the delightful parkland golf course and just after Langley Wood House, a luxury B&B, there is a small lay-by and the entry to Langley Wood, a Natural England wildlife reserve.On leaving Langley Wood continue on down Hamptworth Road and follow signs to Lover, once in the village take the left fork, and then left at the T junction will take you to Turf Hill, the New Forest heathland walk.

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If you have anything going on, tell us here at Solent life and we will include it in our feature

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PREVIEW

“This is a new adaptation locally, but it has been performed to great acclaim nationally,” Artistic Director of theatre company One Off Productions David Lippiett told Solent Life. “My wife Pam is the director and this adaptation was the favourite for both of us.”David and his wife Pam have had a lifetime of experience in the dramatic arts, with David being in and around theatre companies since the 1950s.

“I have always had the desire to do the classic plays and the last 60 years of passion have led up to this production,” he continued as we sat in a wine bar looking out onto the unique frontage of Southsea’s Kings Theatre. “This production is very much aimed at the 200th Anniversary of Dickens and David Copperfield became our choice after a lot of research. Copperfield is very much about family togetherness and love and about the title character’s struggle to retain his family ties.”There is a strong amateur cast of 24 actors and David Lippiett says rehearsals have been going well. “I am confident that it will be a really good performance and that we have a production that both the audience and the actors can respond to. We are very proud that we

have the chance to celebrate such an event especially as I am aware that I am coming to the end of my career and this feels as if I am leaving on a very high note and with something very special.” l DAVID COPPERFIELD by CHARLES DICKENS adapted for the stage by Alastair Cording. Tues 7th February till Sat 11th February at 7.30pm; with a matinee performance at 2.30pm on 7th, 9th and 11th.

Tickets £12, £10, £8 (conc available)Kings Theatre, Southsea Box Office 023 9282 8282 or www.kings-southsea.com

productionanniversaryIt opens on the birthday of Charles Dickens and the story, as with so many of his tales, reflects his real life, close family, debt and abandonment and rebirth into society and family life.



Children

KIDS FOR A QUID: The Spinnaker Tower is offering families a fantastic half-term outing this February with the chance for kids to enjoy the spectacular views for just £1. A visit to the tower is filled with fun for all the family. At 170 metres tall, the Spinnaker Tower offers breath-taking 350º vistas of the South coast, the Solent and the Isle of Wight with a unique view every time. Walk on air on the glass floor situated 100 metres above the stunning Portsmouth Harbour Spinnaker Tower, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, PO1 3TT. Open daily from 10.00am to 6.00pm Saturday 11th to Sunday 19th February. Offer is per child, when accompanied by a full paying adult www.spinnakertower.co.uk

ORCHID DAYS AT HOUGHTON LODGE GARDENS: Visit the recently established Tropical Orchid House and enjoy talks from Andy Phillips, a leading expert on Orchids and a Member of the British Orchid Growers Association. 10.30am – Enjoy morning coffee and a chance to view the Orchid Collection including many rare specimens. 11.00am - 1.00pm - Morning Talk Growing orchids, and orchid care for the beginner. 1.00pm-2.00pm - Light Lunch. 2.00pm-3.30pm - Afternoon Talk Demonstration of re-potting and re-flowering your orchids and dealing with their problems. There will be orchid plants for sale and an exhibition of engraved glass and gilded orchid models. Tickets: £15.00 to include a light lunch, glass of wine and coffee as well as entry to the 16 acres surrounding the house. Sunday 12th February ADVANCE BOOKING REQUIRED – book by calling 023 8000 1655 or email [email protected] www.houghtonlodge.co.uk

SIMON CALLOW: Renowned Dickens fan, actor Simon Callow, performs excerpts of his fantastic new book Charles Dickens and the Great Theatre of the World. The event is in celebration of the 200th anniversary of Charles Dickens birth, 7 February 1812 in Portsmouth. In association with the New Theatre Royal and the Charles Dickens Statue Fund; the statue's sculptor, Martin Jennings will also be in attendance. NEW THEATRE ROYAL, Portsmouth, Tue 7th February at 7:00pm Tickets are selling out quickly, so book now to avoid disappointment. Tickets - £15 / £13 concessions www.newtheatreroyal.com

Also at: THEATRE ROYAL, Winchester on Wed 8th February at 7.30pm with a post-show book signing. Tickets are £15.00, Concs £13.00, Friends £12.50. For further information or to book tickets, please call the box office on 01962 840440 or book online at www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

ROMEO AND JULIET BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE: Two households. Five days. A whirlwind romance. This hot-blooded new production of the world's greatest love story is an explosive collision of youth with age, sex with death and love with tragedy from “the country’s most exciting touring company” with their sensational production of Romeo and Juliet. A must for Shakespeare aficionados and newcomers, and everyone in between, Headlong’s brand new production of Shakespeare’s classic takes us into the blistering heat of Verona’s streets where two young lovers risk everything to be together. Passionate and dangerous, impetuous and

heartbreaking; Shakespeare’s great tragedy of family feuds and forbidden love is given a fresh spin in this modern and theatrically inventive production. Daniel Boyd plays Romeo with Catrin Stewart as Juliet alongside an exciting cast of young and experienced talent. The Nuffield Theatre, Southampton, Main House Thursday 2 – Saturday 18 February 7.30pm nightly (7 Feb 7pm) | Matinees 2.30pm (9, 15 Feb), 3pm (18 Feb) Tickets £10.50 - £19 www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk

DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE: A classic romp that follows the fortunes of Simon Sparrow played by Joe Pasquale, starting as a new medical student at the fictional St Swithin's Teaching Hospital in London. When Sparrow has to leave his first choice of lodgings to get away from his landlady's amorous daughter, he ends up with three amiable but less-than-shining fellow students as flat mates. Towering over them all is the short-tempered, demanding chief surgeon, Sir Lancelot Spratt (Robert Powell), who strikes terror into everyone. Doctor in the House has delighted audiences for generations. Refereed by award-winning director Ian Talbot, it was the most popular box office film of 1954 in Great Britain. Its success spawned six sequels and a very popular television series. Kings Theatre, Albert Road, Southsea, Tuesday 17th to Saturday 21st April. Price: £15.00-£24.50, Box Office: 023 9282 8282. www.kings-southsea.com

THIRSTY: One of the most highly acclaimed shows at the Edinburgh Festival last August, the show is presented in association with the University

of Winchester and performed by The Paper Birds in a highly physical and engaging production that explores our nation’s love affair with alcohol. The play, set in the ladies loo at a nightclub, is performed by two women and a musician. It was written using transcribed text taken from audiotapes from a telephone hotline and face-to-face interviews with women about their drinking habits. THEATRE ROYAL, Winchester on Tues 7th at 8.00pm. Tickets £13.50, Concessions £11.50, Friends £11.00. For further information or to book tickets, please call the box office on 01962 840440 or book online at www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

THE HITCHHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY RADIO SHOW- LIVE: From the Saga that changed Life, The Universe And Everything – The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy by Douglas Adams became an instant and enduring classic on its launch as a radio series. Now Adams's immortal creation explodes back into life, re-born in a ground-breaking new stage production – a radio show the like of which has never been seen – in surround sound, packed with laughter, robots, really wild sound effects and drinks with extremely silly names. Members of the legendary Radio and TV casts are re-united for these live performances. MAYFLOWER THEATRE, Southampton, Sunday 15th July. Tickets for The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy are on sale from The Mayflower Box Office: 02380 711811, online at mayflower.org.uk

What'songuide Music, Comedy, Events & Theatre


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solent life magazine wessex february 2012

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