solentlife wessex eddition november 2012

1… • JULY 2011 • solentlife.co.ukA 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

NOVEMBER 2012

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2… • JULY 2011 • solentlife.co.uk

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18

welcome

10

NOVEMBER 2012

features14… Bishops Waltham

A traditional Christmas fayre

20… Festive Recipes Christmas dinner crackers

24… Little Black Dress With love from Chanel

28… Mayflower Theatre Julian Clary’s behind you - oh no he isn’t!

32… Remembrance A time to thank those who risk life and limb

36… Hollybank A boutique care home in Botley

regulars6… The Walk Up hill and down dale along the Test

10… Artist Review Going wild in Southampton’s streets

52… Coast & Country Prehistoric Enigma - The Cormorant

56… Out and About Photographic memories of events across the south

82… What’s On Reviews, theatre and events coming your way

42

in this issue…

Published by Living Coast Media. © Copyright Solent Life 2012. 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.

Halloween has given up the ghost, the clocks have gone back and now it is off to Santa’s many grottos for the festivities of Christmas, well maybe not for a few weeks yet but it is getting ever nearer.

Welcome to the November issue of Solent Life, where we continue to look forward to Christmas, but not too

much; we take a moment to reflect on the cost of battles fought and that continue to be fought. We have a revealing and uplifting story from the partner of one directly affected by conflict - perhaps a reminder of why we take two minutes silence on Remembrance Day.

Over recent months, we have received one or two comments about the readability of the features in Solent Life and that the typeface that we use is a little difficult to read for some whose eyesight is perhaps not what it was a while ago (and yes, I admit it, my reading glasses are getting thicker these days). This apparently is made worse under the newer energy saving lights. Always wishing to respond to feedback and improve our magazine, we have spent some time experimenting with different fonts and layouts. This month we have used a new font that is much darker and with the wider line spacing and paragraph indents that we introduced just a little while ago, we hope that this change will bring a noticeable improvement. Please be sure to give us feedback on this or anything that you think we can improve. Don’t forget – you can say nice things as well!

contactusSolent Life Magazine Tel… 01489 583800 • Fax… 01489 564549

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 Janet Grimm Sarah Kent Tel… 01489 583800 Tel… 01489 584010 Email… [email protected] Email… [email protected]

Barbara Smith Steve Walker Tel… 01489 583852 Tel… 01489 583815 Email… [email protected] Email… [email protected] Design & Production Leanne Dodd – Senior Designer Adam Barnard – Online Designer

Tel… 01489 583718 Email… [email protected]

| MANAGING EDITOR

16

// Deadline for advertising copy & editorial for December issue: 19th November 2012

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I had just started to walk up the grassy knoll that is the recreation ground alongside Kings Somborne Village Hall, when the church bells chimed and, despite an overcast day, it seemed to signal a fine walk ahead.

The village name derives from where swine (or som) drank at a crossing in the stream (or borne); the area also has royal connections dating back to Saxon times. Although no longer obvious to the casual observer, John of Gaunt is said to have had his palace behind where the village church now sits; John (1340-1399) was an English prince and father of Henry IV.

The village school, which is next to the church, was founded in 1842 by Rev Richard Dawes who was an educational innovator with progressive teaching methods that attracted great interest. According to Dawes, its construction was inspired by the need to raise moral standards of those who lived here, as he found the parish to be run down and demoralised when he moved to the village in 1837. The good news is that it is now a very pleasant place with friendly and upstanding natives.

In the top right hand corner of the recreation ground, a gateway leads walkers down to a road crossing. This is the main Romsey – Stockbridge road and although the speed limit is 30, be very aware as it is a busy road.

Across the road, a kissing gate proved too small for my mighty frame, my walk was almost over before it began, but a strong five-bar gate allowed me an easy climb into the field.

This footpath is one of the oddest I have encountered in nearly eight years of walks for Solent Life, as it passes through many a gate and through several back gardens. No need to fret though, as you have not followed a wrong route, it is just one of

the charms of this short but fascinating adventure.Eventually the footpath emerges at Horsebridge; a tiny hamlet

that sits right on the banks of the River Test and is the point where the original Roman road from Old Sarum to Winchester crossed the Test. The white frontage of the John of Gaunt pub faces directly onto the road and over the door hangs an impressive pair of antlers. A reminder that this was once the site of a deer park owned by the prince who acquired the hunting ground following his marriage to Blanche of Lancaster in the year 1359.

A bush on the corner by the John of Gaunt was so laden with bright reddish/orange berries that its branches hung almost down to the road, after a wet summer the autumn berries are now full of water and bursting at the seams.

A stone road-bridge arches gently over the fast moving and crystal clear waters of the Test and an old mill, now converted to offices, stands solidly alongside the river. A few paces further on and the pathway, known as the Test Way, crosses the road; our journey has us turning right and dropping down into a tunnel of trees that overhang the pathway.

River & HillThe gentle toll from a nearby church bell started me on my way

for this month’s Solent Life Walk.

Words & Images by David Rose-Massom


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alk

I had just started to walk up the grassy knoll that is the recreation ground alongside Kings Somborne Village Hall, when the church bells chimed and, despite an overcast day, it seemed to signal a fine walk ahead.

The village name derives from where swine (or som) drank at a crossing in the stream (or borne); the area also has royal connections dating back to Saxon times. Although no longer obvious to the casual observer, John of Gaunt is said to have had his palace behind where the village church now sits; John (1340-1399) was an English prince and father of Henry IV.

The village school, which is next to the church, was founded in 1842 by Rev Richard Dawes who was an educational innovator with progressive teaching methods that attracted great interest. According to Dawes, its construction was inspired by the need to raise moral standards of those who lived here, as he found the parish to be run down and demoralised when he moved to the village in 1837. The good news is that it is now a very pleasant place with friendly and upstanding natives.

In the top right hand corner of the recreation ground, a gateway leads walkers down to a road crossing. This is the main Romsey – Stockbridge road and although the speed limit is 30, be very aware as it is a busy road.

Across the road, a kissing gate proved too small for my mighty frame, my walk was almost over before it began, but a strong five-bar gate allowed me an easy climb into the field.

This footpath is one of the oddest I have encountered in nearly eight years of walks for Solent Life, as it passes through many a gate and through several back gardens. No need to fret though, as you have not followed a wrong route, it is just one of

the charms of this short but fascinating adventure.Eventually the footpath emerges at Horsebridge; a tiny hamlet

that sits right on the banks of the River Test and is the point where the original Roman road from Old Sarum to Winchester crossed the Test. The white frontage of the John of Gaunt pub faces directly onto the road and over the door hangs an impressive pair of antlers. A reminder that this was once the site of a deer park owned by the prince who acquired the hunting ground following his marriage to Blanche of Lancaster in the year 1359.

A bush on the corner by the John of Gaunt was so laden with bright reddish/orange berries that its branches hung almost down to the road, after a wet summer the autumn berries are now full of water and bursting at the seams.

A stone road-bridge arches gently over the fast moving and crystal clear waters of the Test and an old mill, now converted to offices, stands solidly alongside the river. A few paces further on and the pathway, known as the Test Way, crosses the road; our journey has us turning right and dropping down into a tunnel of trees that overhang the pathway.

River & HillThe gentle toll from a nearby church bell started me on my way

for this month’s Solent Life Walk.


River & Hill The passage along the Test Valley follows the route of the now disappeared Test Valley Railway, or as it was known in its heyday, the ‘Sprat and Winkle line’; built in 1865, it was closed during the Beeching era in 1964.

The Test Way itself is a path that traverses Hampshire, from Inkpen Beacon near to Newbury, in the north, down to Totton in the south, a distance of some 44 miles.

In the summer for much of this walk, the river is hidden from view by the foliage, but as nature drops her leaves for the winter the view becomes more open, and even more stunning. Through a narrow gap in the trees came the rapid click of the ratchet on a fly rod reel being wound in by the angler, as he stood on the grassy bank of the Test expertly flicking his line and fly onto the surface of the flowing water in order to tempt one of the trout to take a bite.

The track narrows to the foot but opens to the sky and is flanked on one side by a very high and steep, foliage covered embankment while on the other it is expanses of meadow and river. No matter where you stand along the Test the views are glorious and inspirational. It was not far from here, at Houghton House, that part of the mini TV series ‘The Buccaneers’ was filmed alongside the picturesque Test.

Over the meadow, a kestrel drifted in search of prey while, following the river’s course. A cormorant flew by, its wings flapping madly and its neck extended forward like an athlete searching for the finishing tape.

The Test Way reaches a crossroads with the Clarendon Way, a 27 mile footpath named after Clarendon Park on the eastern edge of Salisbury that links that city on the River Avon with Winchester on the River Itchen, as well as crossing the River Test at Kings Somborne.

Our route turns right and climbs a long, steepish, hill back toward Kings Somborne. Why are the big hills always toward the ends of walks? The reward for that final effort though is well worth receiving as from the top, the views in all four directions of the Test Valley and the surrounding countryside are magnificent.

My pathway again turned right to head down toward the village. Voices could be heard and on the other side of the hedge a group of walkers had stopped for a sandwich and drink break, while taking in the scenery; no dining room could have more stunning views!

The footpath was narrow and lined with tall hedgerows, with gaps cut into them to take in the view across the farmland to distant vistas. As I walked down, small birds from blue tits to robins and from blackbird to thrush all darted out from the undergrowth, raced down the path in front of me before diving back into cover once more; it was like an avian relay leading me back to the village below.

The walk took just a couple of hours but I spent much more time on the journey as the views need to be appreciated. There is little better than standing over, or alongside, the beautiful River Test and watching it flow by, and then standing on top of a hill looking across the chalk downs of our stunning county of Hampshire.

This was a 3.5 mile circular walk, which begins and ends in the car park at the village hall in Kings Somborne. For refreshment there is of course the John of Gaunt en route or back in the village there is also the Crown Inn.


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Solent Life took a slow walk between the animal enclosures to talk to Kirstie Mathieson, the Project Manager of the event that is to be called Go! Rhino. “Although this is new to this region we are replicating an event which has already happened in several cities across the UK,” she told us. “As part of Marwell Wildlife’s 40th anniversary celebrations and with the support of Wild in Art, Southampton City Council and the local charity, Rose Road Association we will be bringing a world-class, mass art event to the streets and parks of Southampton.

“For ten weeks through the summer there will be an art trail that people of the city and visitors can follow and it will be made up of 3D works of art from a wealth of artistic talent, but it will also be highlighting the significant conservation threat that is facing wild rhinos,” Kirstie added.

In January there will be a ‘Call-to-Artists’ event that will invite creative and artistic individuals to submit designs for the large, almost life-size fibre glass rhinos. “The whole event works by getting sponsor companies, and individuals, to rent a rhino and then choose a design, or indeed choose their own artist to create a design, and get their names connected to the work of art.

“As well as the large rhinos on the public trail there will be up to 100 schools with a smaller version, around two feet by three feet in size, to decorate,” she continued, “Through workshops and visits from education officers it is a way of involving children in both art and conservation projects and the school get to keep their rhino works of art after the event.”

During Solent Life’s visit to Marwell Wildlife, we were introduced to Reggie the Rhino who had already been on display at the recent Southampton Boat Show and created quite a stir among visitors. Reggie, although obviously shaped like a rhino, carries a bright and cheerful work of art that depicts a deep blue sea, light blue sky and a fleet of colourful yachts, spinnakers flying, sailing across his body. Reggie is a beautiful and fascinating thing to behold.

“At the end of the 10 weeks of trails and displays the bigger rhinos that are on view to the public will be auctioned off with the proceeds going to the Rose Road Association and to Marwell Wildlife. Depending on the artwork and the desirability they can go for anything from a few hundred to several thousands of pounds; a similar event at Bristol Zoo Gardens, WOW Gorilla, in 2011 raised £450,000 from their auction.”


One of the ‘big’ attractions at Marwell Wildlife Park is undoubtedly the Rhino enclosure with its massive lumbering, but somehow attractive, beasts and through the summer of next year these wonderful, horned creatures will become the inspiration for up to 60 works of individual art which will culminate in an ‘art’ auction that will raise tens of thousands of pounds for two of our local charities.

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For more information contact Kirstie MathiesonMarwell Wildlife Park, Colden Common, Winchester, SO12 1JHTel: 01962 777407 . E-mail: [email protected]

A dedicated website will be up and running shortly.

Artists wanting submit designs to GO! RHINOS an application form is online with full details at www.marwell.org.uk/gorhinosClosing date for artists is Jan 4th.

The auction, as Kirstie explained, is not the only financial benefit. “There is a great deal of additional income being brought into the town because of the increase in footfall and visitors. Every town involved in similar events, Liverpool for example, calculated that income generated specifically by the event was in excess of £41m, with 34% of their Go Penguin visitors taking specific daytrips to follow the art trail. A major shopping centre in Norwich saw a 26% increase in their footfall and two years on they are still seeing the benefits.”

Companies such as Balfour Beatty, Ageas Bowl, Coffin Mew and Holiday Inn have already signed up to sponsor their own Rhinos; Kirstie explained the sponsorship costs. “There is a great deal of publicity for the companies who do take up sponsorship, including a plaque by their Rhino, and details on the map of the trail, etc., Go Penguin in Liverpool generated £4.5m worth of positive media coverage. For £4,000 plus VAT the businesses will get an artist commissioned to paint the sculpture (£3,500 if they commission their own artist), a quarter page advert in the official guide, 10 tickets to visit Marwell Wildlife and the opportunity to work closely with Business Solent. The smaller rhino for the schools cost just £375 plus VAT and there

Our Artist Review is kindly sponsored by WHITE DOG GALLERY 8 Milvil Court, Milvil Road Lee-on-the-Solent Hampshire, PO13 9LY 023 9255 2255 www.whitedoggallery.co.uk

ART FOCUS S P O N S O R S H I P

A series of photos with a similar theme - school photos or action shots for example - look great framed together in one frame. Multi-aperture frames can include as many pictures as you like and can be arranged in a particular way to tell a story in the case of an action shot or in age if you’re framing yearly school photos for example. The frame can be either landscape or portrait and it’s possible to have a description to accompany each image or just one for all the images. Whatever your choice, multi-aperture frames can make a collection of images a real focal point. And it doesn’t just need to be photo’s as a series of small paintings or sketches can also look equally impressive framed in this way.

THE WHITE DOG TIP

are many benefits attached to those including an education officer; our first three schools are already signed up.

“This is all about something really exciting for the city and a great opportunity for businesses and schools to get involved in something that has already proven its worth in other parts of the UK. Most of all it is an opportunity for some fun that will also promote local business,” Kirstie concluded.

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Bishops Waltham Traders are once again hosting the annual Christmas Fayre in the High Street on Thursday 6th December 2012 from 6.00pm to8.00 pm – all welcome and again this year we will be making a Donation to Home start who support local families with young children.

The theme for this year’s event is ‘Medieval’ celebrating the towns medieval History so we can look forward to seeing several wenches and possibly royal Nobility as well as several santa’s and elfs on the night. You will have a warm Welcome from the traders who will be offering a selection of tasty treats, roasted chestnuts, ale, wine and much more.

The children will be excited once again to find Santa in his wonderful grotto at Whitehorns in the village. Traditional carols and lots more entertainment will enhance the magical atmosphere of the evening.

Bishops Waltham is probably one of the jewels in Hampshire crown with its charming high street and its unique independent shops offering a whole range of unusual gifts. Several new shops have opened this year including 2 new ladies boutiques, a toy shop several gifts shops who will all be open on the night. There will be lots to get you into the Christmas spirit and a host of lucky winners of fantastic prizes in the raffle which will be

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T: 01489 897711 www.bishopsestate.co.uk

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

from all at Bishops


Group one: These are the folks who don’t just love Christmas, they live for it; they put the early shoppers of October to shame. Many commence their Christmas shopping in the preceding Boxing Day sales, and spend the year joyfully adding to their stockpile of presents. Whilst some of us mutter darkly about Christmas starting indecently early in the retail world, they fall on the first displays of Christmas wares with exclamations of delight; buying gifts for not only family and friends but all those that they are on first name acquaintance with. Cards are purchased, written and stamped before the powers that be at the Post Office have even pondered on when the last posting day will be. Their Christmas decorations are up and twinkling merrily by the first of December, they sing Christmas Carols morning, noon and night and break out the mince pies and mulled wine before most of us have started our pre Christmas diet.

Group Two: These happy campers commence their Christmas shopping at the carefully considered right time....not too early but not too late. According to a recent survey I conducted amongst family and friends; whom I consider to be representative of a cross section of the general population; most people seem to fall into this category. Although I should state that by people, I mean women, as all of the men surveyed fell into Group Three or Four, or simply professed ignorance when asked if they had started their seasonal buying fest, and referred me to their wife. Group Two are the people I consider to have the most balanced approach to Christmas; they are organised but not obsessed and despite the odd complaint about the length of their Christmas shopping list, they tackle the whole seasonal shindig with good grace and a fair amount of good cheer. Their tree goes up a respectable two weeks before the day, their mince pies make their first appearance the week before and the mulled wine is fully enjoyed in one sitting on Christmas Eve.

Group Three: I am an expert on this group as I fall into it. We are the people who put our heads in the sand about all things Christmassy for as long as is decently and sensibly acceptable... or sometimes, and stupidly, longer. We ignore all the warning

signs that the season is upon us; we turn a blind eye to the displays of Christmas goodies, we refuse to hum along when the shopping centre Christmas Carol sound track commences, and use the back of our children’s Christmas lists to write notes to the milkman. Whilst we know that we will have to take the Christmas shopping plunge at some point we keep putting it off in the hope that it will all go away. It is not that we don’t enjoy Christmas it is just that we would prefer it if the Christmas Fairy did all the hard work and we could merely sit back and pull some crackers on the day. We keep this up until the first week or so of December and then we rush around manically, performing Christmas feats in a flurry which would leave most people standing and somehow or other manage to pull it all together as the Christmas Bells chime. Our mince pies are served from the box on Christmas Eve, assuming there were some left in the shop that morning, and our wine is straight from the bottle with not a clove to be found.

Group Four: I think it is fair to say that this group is made up of many of our men folk. They leave all the preparations up to the women in their lives. Their contribution is limited to when, upon request (or command), they venture forth to source the largest, bushiest Christmas tree they can find. They will make much of putting it up; with great precision to ensure level placement; and then disappear behind the paper as the annual ‘family’ decorating of the tree commences. In the week before Christmas they will purchase what they hope will be the perfect gift for the woman in their lives, although the success of this depends on whether or not they registered the many hints that were dropped in the preceding weeks. They will ensure that the Christmas drinks are warmed or chilled as appropriate, leap up to serve them to guests and eat more than their fair share of the mince pies.

Whichever group you fall in, come Christmas Eve, hopefully everything will be wrapped, stuffed or mulled as appropriate and you can sit back with your wine and mince pie, sing “Ding Dong Merrily on High”, and let the festivities commence.

words by Fiona Cooke

now november is upon us, there is no avoiding the fact that Christmas Day looms ever nearer. By now

many of us will be well under way with our seasonal preparations, and whilst we like to think we are unique,

our approach could fall into one of four groups...

It’s all in the preparation...


Christmas

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Opening times:Mon - Fri: 7am - 5pm . Saturday: 7am - 4pm

Join us for our first Christmas!

Change your life for the betterWith a glorious autumn to look forward to, why be on your own when you could be out socialising and making new friends with Club Weekenders ?.Club Weekenders is a social group for the over 40’s that arranges many social events throughout the year including walks, holidays, theatre trips, meals out, sports activities, mini breaks and so much more.With Club Weekenders you will meet like minded people experiencing new interests

and going to new places. If you think this is for you then give Judith or Bree a call and they will arrange to meet you on Monday Bar Nights at the Delme Arms in Fareham.Phone now – you’ll be glad you did: Judith 01329 317319 or Angela 01329 239529


1 Melt the butter in a large heavy based pan add sliced onions and cook until translucent, about 5-10 minutes 2 Add the sliced chestnuts and cook lightly for a further 5 minutes . Stir in the mushrooms and cook for a further 3 minutes 3 Add the stock ,bring to the boil and simmer for 15 minutes .4 Transfer soup into a blender and allow to mix until desired texture achieved 5 Finish with salt and pepper to taste

Chestnut & Mushroom Soup

Bacon Wrapped Turkey Paupiette, Apricot & Walnut Mousse, Fondant

Potato, Thyme Jus

Starter

Main Course Turkery paupiette

150 g Turkey breast sliced and flattened

04 slices Smoked Streaky bacon rashers

Apricot And Walnut Mousse

120 g chicken breast skinless and boneless

10 g apricots dried, soaked in hot water

5 g walnuts toasted and crushed lightly

20 g egg white20 g whipping cream

salt and pepper

Fondant Potato1 large baking potato200 g butter unsalted

Thyme Jus500 ml chicken jus, dark (available in all stores)2 sprigs fresh thyme

5 g butter

Turkery paupiette 1 Place the apricot and walnut mousse in the centre of the turkey breast.2 Season with salt an pepper and roll the breast to cover the mousse.3 Wrap the rolled breast with the bacon rashers neatly and make sure the ends of the bacon slices come together at the bottom of the roulade.4 In a hot pan sear the rolled turkey lightly to seal the ends of the bacon slices5 Place the potato fondant along with the turkey roulade on a grease proof paper layered tray in the oven at 180*c for 8-10 mins until cooked6 Once the turkey is cooked, remove from oven and allow to rest for 4-5 mins and then slice neatly with a sharp knife and place at the centre of the palate.7 Place the fondant potato on the plate and serve hot with thyme jus

Apricot And Walnut Mousse1 Place chicken breast egg whites and seasonings into a food processor and blend til smooth.2 Add the cream on a slow speed and do not over mix as the cream could split.3 Transfer the mix into a clean bowl and fold in the apricots and walnuts.

Fondant Potato1 Cut the potato into a barrel shape.2 Peel off the remaining skin from the barrel shaped potato.2 Smooth the edges of the potato so that it does not burn whilst cooking3 Heat the butter in a heavy bottomed pan and place the potato in it.4 Cook for 20 minutes on a medium low heat without moving the potato5 Season with salt and pepper6 Carefully turn the potato (it should have a golden brown colour)7 Repeat the same process on the other side until cooked8 Check if the potato is fully cooked, (carefully insert a small sharp knife into the centre of the potato. If the knife goes in easily then it is cooked)9 Remove from butter and place on a kitchen towel to remove the excess butter

Thyme Jus1 Reduce the chicken stock to half on high heat with the thyme2 Finish with the cold butter and serve hot.

Ingredients 75g Butter

1 onion finely chopped200g fresh cooked chestnuts 200g chestnut mushrooms

1.5 litreschicken or vegetable stock1 tsp chopped parsley

THE FERRY RESTAURANT & BAR

fest

ive

| fo

od


1 Melt the butter in a large heavy based pan add sliced onions and cook until translucent, about 5-10 minutes 2 Add the sliced chestnuts and cook lightly for a further 5 minutes . Stir in the mushrooms and cook for a further 3 minutes 3 Add the stock ,bring to the boil and simmer for 15 minutes .4 Transfer soup into a blender and allow to mix until desired texture achieved 5 Finish with salt and pepper to taste

Chestnut & Mushroom Soup

Bacon Wrapped Turkey Paupiette, Apricot & Walnut Mousse, Fondant

Potato, Thyme Jus

Starter

Main Course Turkery paupiette

150 g Turkey breast sliced and flattened

04 slices Smoked Streaky bacon rashers

Apricot And Walnut Mousse

120 g chicken breast skinless and boneless

10 g apricots dried, soaked in hot water

5 g walnuts toasted and crushed lightly

20 g egg white20 g whipping cream

salt and pepper

Fondant Potato1 large baking potato200 g butter unsalted

Thyme Jus500 ml chicken jus, dark (available in all stores)2 sprigs fresh thyme

5 g butter

Turkery paupiette 1 Place the apricot and walnut mousse in the centre of the turkey breast.2 Season with salt an pepper and roll the breast to cover the mousse.3 Wrap the rolled breast with the bacon rashers neatly and make sure the ends of the bacon slices come together at the bottom of the roulade.4 In a hot pan sear the rolled turkey lightly to seal the ends of the bacon slices5 Place the potato fondant along with the turkey roulade on a grease proof paper layered tray in the oven at 180*c for 8-10 mins until cooked6 Once the turkey is cooked, remove from oven and allow to rest for 4-5 mins and then slice neatly with a sharp knife and place at the centre of the palate.7 Place the fondant potato on the plate and serve hot with thyme jus

Apricot And Walnut Mousse1 Place chicken breast egg whites and seasonings into a food processor and blend til smooth.2 Add the cream on a slow speed and do not over mix as the cream could split.3 Transfer the mix into a clean bowl and fold in the apricots and walnuts.

Fondant Potato1 Cut the potato into a barrel shape.2 Peel off the remaining skin from the barrel shaped potato.2 Smooth the edges of the potato so that it does not burn whilst cooking3 Heat the butter in a heavy bottomed pan and place the potato in it.4 Cook for 20 minutes on a medium low heat without moving the potato5 Season with salt and pepper6 Carefully turn the potato (it should have a golden brown colour)7 Repeat the same process on the other side until cooked8 Check if the potato is fully cooked, (carefully insert a small sharp knife into the centre of the potato. If the knife goes in easily then it is cooked)9 Remove from butter and place on a kitchen towel to remove the excess butter

Thyme Jus1 Reduce the chicken stock to half on high heat with the thyme2 Finish with the cold butter and serve hot.

Ingredients 75g Butter

1 onion finely chopped200g fresh cooked chestnuts 200g chestnut mushrooms

1.5 litreschicken or vegetable stock1 tsp chopped parsley

THE FERRY RESTAURANT & BAR500g parsnips500g carrots

2 -3 tbsp olive oilFew thyme sprigs

1 cinnamon stick, broken in two3 star anise

1 -2 tbsp clear honey150ml chicken stock

Sponge 5x med eggs

230g caster sugar2 tablespoons clarified butter

85g plain flour45g cocoa powder

Dark Chocolate Torte

Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips Brussel Sprouts And Chestnuts

Dessert

Vegetables

1 To make the sponge, preheat oven to 200c, combine the whole eggs and the sugar, using an electric whisk beat until tripled in volume, gently fold in the clarified butter, sift the cocoa powder and flour, gently fold in to the mix, place the mixture on a baking tray about ½ cm thick, bake for about 8 minutes

2 To make the torte place chocolate in a bowl over a pan of boiling water to melt.

3 With an electric mixer beat eggs and egg yolks until ribbons form. Combine the sugar with the water and boil until it reaches 120c, gently pour the sugar mixture into the eggs (pour down the side of the bowl so it does not touch the whisk). In a bowl whisk the cream until it forms soft peaks, add the chocolate to the mixture, slowly, making sure the chocolate is at room temperature, until fully combined, fold in the cream to the

chocolate mix,

4 To assemble the torte, place the sponge in the bottom of you desired moulds, use a little stock syrup or brandy to moisten the sponge, add the chocolate torte mix on the top, place in the fridge for about 4 hours, and gently remove from moulds,With the sponge trimmings, place in 80c oven for about an hour then place in food processer blitz until crumbs,

5 To assemble place the crumbs roughly on the plate, place the torte on the plate place the white chocolate sorbet on the crumbs, decorate with the mango coulis and popcorn,

Torte300g dark chocolate

5 egg yolks 2 eggs

250g caster sugar 80ml water

500ml double cream

500-750g (1-1½lb) Brussel sprouts, prepared

30g (1oz) butter200g packet cooked and peeled whole chestnuts

1-2 level tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 Peel and chop the parsnips and carrots so that the pieces are all of a similar size (e.g. into quarters).2 Heat the olive oil in a roasting tray on the hob, add the carrots and parsnips and toss to coat in the oil. Add the thyme, cinnamon, star anise and some seasoning. Drizzle over the honey and allow the vegetables to pick up a bit of colour before adding the stock. Allow to simmer turning the vegetables to help them cook evenly.3 Add the butter and toss through before placing the vegetables in the oven at 220C/gas mark 7 to cook for 25-30 minutes.

1 Bring a large pan of water to the boil; add the sprouts and cook for about 10 mins, until just tender. Drain well.2 Melt the butter in the same pan; add the chestnuts and stir to coat in the butter, then add the sprouts to the pan and mix well.3 Stir in parsley just before serving. Serve straight away.

festiv

e | fo

od


Every Christmas Santa parks up the reindeer and sleigh and sets out his store in an assortment of venues. From garden shed to shop and store, and even a submarine; then with the help of his elves, begins to dispense Christmas cheer and the first of the year’s gaily wrapped festive presents.

By the use of magic dust, the white-haired old gentleman spreads himself thinly around the county so that children from all areas can get to see him and deliver their wish list by hand. Solent Life have discovered the best special venues that have even more to offer for the family excursion, than just the visit to Santa’s grotto!

Our first visit will be to the region’s leading theme park, Paulton’s Park; there the children will be able to enter

Santa’s Christmas Wonderland from 17th November and step into a magical world of fun and song. Adorable animated characters will greet visitors at their every turn as they take the mystical journey through the enchanted snow scene.

Don’t miss Rudolph and Donner the singing reindeer and see the elves working hard to finish all the gifts in time for Christmas Eve in Santa’s toy factory! At the end of the journey children will get to meet Santa Claus and receive an exciting present. Plus there will be the added exciting attraction of Peppa Pig’s World at Christmas with twinkling illuminations, Christmas trees and so much more to enthral the young ones!

All tickets must be pre-booked and pre-paid and because he is so busy flying here and there, visits to Santa have an

allotted session time but guests can enjoy the rest of the Park at other times during the day. For information and to book you tickets, visit www.paultonspark.co.uk or call the booking hotline on 023 8081 4442.

Marwell Wildlife Park always have so much to offer at this time of year, the magic of being around all those exotic wild animals only heightens the thought of a visit to Santa.

Santa will be in his grotto amidst the wildlife on various dates from 24th November to 24th December and because of the amazing venue it will make your family’s Christmas magical this winter. You will join the elves in their toy factory in Marwell Hall and warm yourself with a glass of mulled wine, or hot blackcurrant, and an obligatory mince pie. The children can follow Mrs Claus as she welcomes them through to her parlour, for the loveable story and puppet show of Pinocchio. Then it’s a step into the elf kitchen to decorate their own Christmas cookie before, at last, being called to meet Santa in his sparkling grotto and receive a special gift for all children under the age of 14.

Meet Pickle the Penguin and enjoy time with Santa’s elves in what promises to be an enchanting Christmas experience and the whole journey will last around an hour and includes all of the above as well as entry to the magnificent Marwell Wildlife Park. www.marwell.org.uk

Other exciting grottos can be found at:The Royal Navy Submarine

Museum in Gosport; Saturday 8 & Sunday 9 December 10am – 4pm. In these days of satellite navigation and tracking systems, Father Christmas likes to remain secretive as he travels around the world delivering presents and so he now uses

a submarine! Meet Santa, his elves and submariner helpers, take a ride on his Santa train, explore his submarine and help the elves to get ready for the big day. Free gift for every child. Tickets: Advanced £9, Family (max 4 persons) £24,On the door £10, Family £30. Please call 023 9251 0354 ext 240 to book or visit www.submarine-museum.co.uk

No sign of a grotto but it is a traditional Christmas at Beaulieu with a time of magic with fun, activities and entertainment for all the family. Palace House, home of the Montagu family since 1538, is a place of enchantment at this special time of year. Children can delve into a ‘Box of Delights’ and dress up in period costumes while in the Lower Drawing Room there will be carol singing around the grand piano for everyone to enjoy.

15th December - 6th January. Ticket prices and availability are available on-line at www.beaulieu.co.uk/beaulieu-events/christmas-celebrations

Grotto - a cave, especially one with interesting natural features; especially when a large, jolly man in a red suit takes up residence!



Christmas

at The Nuffield

Parrots, Pirates

and Pieces of eight!

Treasure Island

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023 8067 1771www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk

Nuffield Theatre Southampton 6 December 2012 to 13 January 2013

The perfect family show!

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She did not invent the concept but Chanel brought it to popularity when she introduced her little black dress in 1926 when American Vogue published a drawing of her design. In her book ‘A Short History of the Little Black Dress’, Maura Fritz says it was apparently a simple yet elegant sheath, in black crêpe de Chine, with long, narrow sleeves, worn with a string of white pearls; and Vogue proved to be correct in the prediction that it would become a uniform. Since then it has become the very by-word of chic and style and a uniform for every special occasion.

That first version was a slash-necked, short silk dress with only diagonal pin-tucks as decoration. American Vogue called it the ‘Ford’ because as with Henry Ford’s Model-T car, the LBD was not only an instant hit and widely available but it only came in black. Chanel’s LBD was designed not to show stains and to fit every woman and was meant as the fashion ideal: a perfectly simple and yet sexy object.

Despite its instant success it was not until 1954 that the women of America, and across the globe, took to the creation; not until a glamorous Givenchy LDB was worn in the film Sabrina by the beautiful and enigmatic Audrey Hepburn. In December 2006, another famous Givenchy version, again worn by Audrey Hepburn but this time from the film Breakfast at Tiffany’s, was sold at auction for over $800,000.

Designer Karl Lagerfeld said of the ultimate fashion purchase; “Today, the little black dress is like jeans, it is a wardrobe’s essential element.”

When Chanel first launched her version 86 years ago the critics panned her design and yet women instantly took a liking to the LBD and began wearing it. Then in 1961 Jacqueline Kennedy as America’s First Lady selected the black sheath for a White House reception which once again bought the dress to the forefront of high fashion. Then when Princess Diana appeared wearing an off the shoulder LBD it saw yet another resurgence as the must-have item of every sophisticated woman’s wardrobe. The Christina Stambolian designed creation worn by Diana became an instant hit with the media; with bare shoulders, a glimpse of thigh and accessorised with a broad pearl choker it was the height of style and glamour.

Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel’s designer since 1983, says one of the keys to the little black dress’s appeal is indeed that, “You can accessorize depending on the occasion,” just as Hepburn did when her LBD was accessorised with evening gloves and a wide-brimmed hat to her Hubert de Givenchy frock in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

During the Victorian era black was reserved for periods of mourning only, as Queen Victoria is seen following the death of her beloved Albert. In fact polite society decreed that a widow was expected to be in mourning for nearly two years. Women would wear plain black clothing with no decoration for the first year. Then as they left that period of ‘Deep’ mourning and for the next three months it was acceptable to wear black silk and accessorize with lace, ribbon or jet jewellery, after that women were then allowed to introduce certain demure colours with purple being a popular choice.

As with many Victorian sagas it was to be a scandal that changed things, the media being much less of an influence back then. This particular scandal in 1884 was the showing of a painting titled ‘Madame X’ by artist John Singer Sargent. He had become fascinated by the beauty of a Paris socialite Madame Gautreau who was way ahead of her time. The portrait showed her in the black dress, or Petite Robe Noire, in what was for those days, a highly revealing pose and it shocked society, but it also enabled women to begin wearing black for social occasions.

Coco Chanel turned the Little Black Dress, or LBD as it has become known, into the iconic fashion must-have; but it took a Hollywood superstar, a US President’s wife and a Princess to make it and keep it as the one garment that every woman has in her wardrobe.

A Little Black Magic

Words by David Rose-Massom Painting by Lynne Davies


She did not invent the concept but Chanel brought it to popularity when she introduced her little black dress in 1926 when American Vogue published a drawing of her design. In her book ‘A Short History of the Little Black Dress’, Maura Fritz says it was apparently a simple yet elegant sheath, in black crêpe de Chine, with long, narrow sleeves, worn with a string of white pearls; and Vogue proved to be correct in the prediction that it would become a uniform. Since then it has become the very by-word of chic and style and a uniform for every special occasion.

That first version was a slash-necked, short silk dress with only diagonal pin-tucks as decoration. American Vogue called it the ‘Ford’ because as with Henry Ford’s Model-T car, the LBD was not only an instant hit and widely available but it only came in black. Chanel’s LBD was designed not to show stains and to fit every woman and was meant as the fashion ideal: a perfectly simple and yet sexy object.

Despite its instant success it was not until 1954 that the women of America, and across the globe, took to the creation; not until a glamorous Givenchy LDB was worn in the film Sabrina by the beautiful and enigmatic Audrey Hepburn. In December 2006, another famous Givenchy version, again worn by Audrey Hepburn but this time from the film Breakfast at Tiffany’s, was sold at auction for over $800,000.

Designer Karl Lagerfeld said of the ultimate fashion purchase; “Today, the little black dress is like jeans, it is a wardrobe’s essential element.”

When Chanel first launched her version 86 years ago the critics panned her design and yet women instantly took a liking to the LBD and began wearing it. Then in 1961 Jacqueline Kennedy as America’s First Lady selected the black sheath for a White House reception which once again bought the dress to the forefront of high fashion. Then when Princess Diana appeared wearing an off the shoulder LBD it saw yet another resurgence as the must-have item of every sophisticated woman’s wardrobe. The Christina Stambolian designed creation worn by Diana became an instant hit with the media; with bare shoulders, a glimpse of thigh and accessorised with a broad pearl choker it was the height of style and glamour.

Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel’s designer since 1983, says one of the keys to the little black dress’s appeal is indeed that, “You can accessorize depending on the occasion,” just as Hepburn did when her LBD was accessorised with evening gloves and a wide-brimmed hat to her Hubert de Givenchy frock in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

During the Victorian era black was reserved for periods of mourning only, as Queen Victoria is seen following the death of her beloved Albert. In fact polite society decreed that a widow was expected to be in mourning for nearly two years. Women would wear plain black clothing with no decoration for the first year. Then as they left that period of ‘Deep’ mourning and for the next three months it was acceptable to wear black silk and accessorize with lace, ribbon or jet jewellery, after that women were then allowed to introduce certain demure colours with purple being a popular choice.

As with many Victorian sagas it was to be a scandal that changed things, the media being much less of an influence back then. This particular scandal in 1884 was the showing of a painting titled ‘Madame X’ by artist John Singer Sargent. He had become fascinated by the beauty of a Paris socialite Madame Gautreau who was way ahead of her time. The portrait showed her in the black dress, or Petite Robe Noire, in what was for those days, a highly revealing pose and it shocked society, but it also enabled women to begin wearing black for social occasions.

Coco Chanel turned the Little Black Dress, or LBD as it has become known, into the iconic fashion must-have; but it took a Hollywood superstar, a US President’s wife and a Princess to make it and keep it as the one garment that every woman has in her wardrobe.

A Little Black Magic

Words by David Rose-Massom Painting by Lynne Davies

Although Chanel and Lagerfeld are famous for their love and re-invention of the LBD, it has been the likes of Givenchy that have continually reinvented, what is after all, a simple and basic design product. As several sources report; every haute couture designer has their own version of the LBD, and has itself become almost a style signature of every top designer: Balenciaga’s is elegant, Thierry Mugler’s futuristic, while Galliano’s is daring and Prada’s a classic.

On a web blog called My Little Black Dress, It says of Mugler’s LBD from his 2011 collection; ‘These black dresses are worn close to the body and fit perfectly over every curve. There’s a perfect black dress for every woman. Give in to temptation for an elegant black dress by Thierry Mugler’.

What woman can resist the Little Black Dress?

- A day out shopping for that special occasion- Wardrobe cleanse (min 3-4 hrs)- Makeup tips to suit skin tone and your occasion- Clothes to suit your body shape & skin tone- Colour analysis to suit you- Gift vouchers available Christmas and Birthdays

Interested in hiring an Interior Designer, please contact me on: 07791 040602

or email Ash&[email protected]

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Contact: 07791 040602 Email: [email protected]

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The White Horse Hotel, Market Place, Romsey, Hampshire SO51 8ZJ 01794 [email protected] www.silkshotels.com

BRASSERIE

HL NY_1/4 04/10/2012 13:52 Page 1


PHOTOGRAPHY

For more information or to book an appointment:PAUL LEWIS : 07502 244435 or ELLIE BRETON : 07588 461247Located at the back of Sheila Hurst Florist, 22b Middle Road, Park Gate, SO31 7GH

PORTRAITS & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHS MAKE FANTASTIC CHRISTMAS GIFTS. PHONE FOR BOOKINGS AND SPECIAL OFFERS.

Paul Lewis, professional photographer with many years of experience in all aspects of photography, including portraits, children, pets, wildlife, weddings, parties, special occasions, corporate events and training.

Paul has formed a partnership with Ellie Breton, former Fareham College student with a Photographic Media qualification. Ellie has a special skill with pets, children and location photography.

The brand new studio in Park Gate will be available for portraits, family groups, children, pets, ID photographs for passports and driving licences. We can also be hired for location events such as weddings, parties and celebrations, as well as commercial and promotional events.

PHOTOGRAPHY

For more information please contact:Paul Lewis : 07502 244435Ellie Breton : 07588 461247

The best for day time cuisine, a country atmosphere with a fresh appeal.

Evenings that entertain and delight, with beautiful surroundings for your private function both day and night.

Sun to Thurs 10-5 Fri to Sat 9-5 01794 340 556 / 777Kimbridge Lane, Timsbury, Romsey, Hants. SO51 [email protected] Find us on Facebook

K i m b r i d g eR e s t a u r a n t

Annie’s Tearooms

Christmas Lunch Menus available from 24th November to 23rd December along with

the normal Daily Menus – prices start from £16.95

Christmas Party Dinner Menus also from 24th November to 23rd December (subject to availability) for 15 to 60 guests

– prices start from £20.95 Large group discounts available

Post Christmas Party bookings available throughout January 2013


Unit 31-32 Locks heath centre, centre Way, Locks heath, soUthampton, so31 6DXt: 01489 581991 | 07738 759 505

W: WWW.interia-groUp.co.Uk

NEW BATHROOM, KITCHEN & BEDROOM SHOWROOM OPENS IN THE LOCKS HEATH CENTRE

DESIGNEDSUPPLIED

INSTALLED

Interia had a successful launch party to open their stunning 3000 sq ft showroom in the Locks Heath Shopping Centre. The launch which was attended by invited guests as well as existing customers, was officially opened by former footballer and TV pundit Paul Walsh. Paul amongst others enjoyed the buffet and champagne while admiring the many displays and room settings that Interia have created in the showroom which is located on the first floor above Martins Newsagents.

The displays include Bathroom settings from wetrooms to showerbaths with a huge range available. The kitchen range spoils you for choice with modern and traditional on display. There is also a fully working kitchen where a Neff Home Economist will be cooking from 9 to 3 on Saturday 17th November so pop along and savour some dishes!

Interia also offer fitted bedrooms or sliding wardrobes in a huge choice of styles and colours.On top of this they offer a full cad design service and will supply only or have a team of fitters who will undertake the full installation.

They are open 7 days a week including Sundays so if you are looking to improve and put value on your home visit Interia for inspiration!

COME ALONG AND SEE THE NEFF COOKERY DEMO ON SATURDAY 17TH NOVEMBER BETWEEN 10 AND 3

IN OUR FULLY WORKING KITCHEN

Visit the website for more details www.interia-group.co.uk


This year traditional family pantomime returns to The Mayflower Theatre with their production Jack and the Beanstalk. The theatre has signed a three year deal with Qdos Entertainment, the world’s largest pantomime producer ensuring the continuity of high quality entertainment for the people of the south.

Julian Clary will star as Spirit of the Beans, Nigel Havers as Fleshcreep, Lee Mead makes his pantomime debut in the title role of Jack and comedian and ventriloquist Paul Zerdin, as Simple Simon, and his cheeky companion Sam. They are joined by veteran panto dame and Hi-De-Hi star Jeffrey Holland as Dame Trot, and local Wave105 news journalist Shireen Jordan will play the Lady in Waiting.

Featuring a larger-than-life beanstalk and one very mean giant at the top of it! The traditional elements of a family pantomime combine with visual effects, including a fantastic 3D enchanted forest and journey through the Giant’s castle. This is pantomime at its best!

We caught up with the shows headline star, Julian Clary at the press launch for the show…

So Julian have you had a lot of pantomime experience?I have done about 14 pantomimes, playing roles from Dandini

in Cinderella to Spirit of the Bells in Dick Whittington at the Birmingham Hippodrome a few years ago. Here I am playing The Spirit of the Beans in Jack and the Beanstalk, I am a kind of ethereal being who arrives from another planet in a big space rocket. I will be looking over young Jack played by Lee Mead. My real role is to entertain the Mums and Dads in the audience. The story and all the magic is for the children, although we all like to see good triumph over evil of course, but the parents do need to have a good time as well. So that’s what I’m there for.

I do love pantomime, and I never thought I would find my way into panto as I am an adult entertainer. However, I love overdressing and wearing too much make-up and you can’t be accused of overacting in panto!

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Jack and the Beanstalk Saturday 22 December until Saturday 19 January

The Mayflower TheatreTel 02380 711811

mayflower.org.uk

Do you have to be careful with your delivery of gags in pantomime?

It really does me good to carefully hone the double entendres in the show so that they are funny enough for the children to enjoy and be spot on for the adults. For example in Cinderella, my entrance is riding on a chariot drawn by two bare chested mules, and my opening line is ‘I like to be pulled wherever I go”. The adults will laugh in a sniggering way, and the kids will find it funny on a different level. A proper double-entendre is funny on two levels.So tell us about the show

Jack and the Beanstalk is really going to be spectacular – in fact I would use the word lavish! – I am going to be wearing about 9 costumes throughout the show. Jack is a wonderful story – it has got happiness and sadness, and good triumphs over evil at the end of course as it has to in all pantomimes.

Have you ever been to Southampton before?I have played the Mayflower before with my stand up

shows, and Southampton audiences always seem cheerful and jolly. You have to enjoy where you are performing. With Pantomime, you are in the theatre most of the time, so the dressing room has to be a home from home!So you are working alongside Nigel Havers, Lee Mead, Jeffrey Holland and Paul Zerdin, is it fun to be part of an ensemble?

Yes, they are spectacular panto performers; it is nice to get on so well with the people you work with. I have been in productions where people fall out, and I can’t be doing with all that. Life is too short. You need to make it fun. Nigel is a proper actor you know, not like me, who can do the whole range from nice to nasty. I can only really play myself. Whatever part you see me in you only really get Julian Clary.

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WHERE: ST MARGARETS ARTS, ST. MARGARETS LANE, TITCHFIELD PO14 4BG. TIME: START AT 7.30PM. TICKETS: MON – THURS £9. FRI & SAT £11. MATINEES £9.

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

www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com

6th -15th December at 7.30pm Matinees on Saturday 8th & 15th at 2.30pm Miracle on 34th Street a heartwarming modern tale about the existence of Father Christmas and all the values that surround him. A kindly old gentleman proves to be a sensation as a stand in Father Christmas at a major New York department store. But is he really the real Father Christmas? A Christmas courtroom drama quickly tests everyone’s belief in the magic and spirit of Christmas. A magical,funny modern Christmas tale for all the family.

6th -15th December at 7.30pm Alan Ayckbourn’s time-travelling comedy thriller where men have blood on their hands and women have time on theirs.Ms. Poopay Dayseer, a twenty-first century Specialist Sexual Consultant, while peddling her ‘services’ to an elderly hotel room client unexpectedly finds herself running for her life. Her flight through a communicating door brings her face to face with her own past and with Ruella who apparently died under suspicious circumstances twenty years earlier. But will Poopay’s friendship with that remarkable woman change the future for both of them...?

> Communicating Doors


Back in the September issue of Solent Life we told the story of Dave Henson, a soldier who lost both legs after standing on an IED in Afghanistan, the story that remained untold was that of his partner, Hayley Brown, who was left behind and then stood by her man when he was returned from the war zone.

“It all started for us with a lot of tequila five and a half years ago.” school teacher Hayley said smiling and remembering the party at university where they first met. “We used to work at the Student Union together and we have been seeing each other ever since.”

Hayley told us that she and Dave had not lived together prior to him losing his legs. “We did not move in together until he came out of hospital. Shortly after we met I went to America to college, studying geography and sports studies in Oklahoma,” she explained. “Dave came out on a couple of occasions and we used to ride around on a couple of cheap Walmart bikes; at the time Dave could run so fast I would have trouble keeping up with him while I was on the bike!

“When I came back to the UK, Dave was at Sandhurst and it was all too busy for us to think about moving in together. I was living in a student house in Portswood in Southampton which was just five minutes from his parents’ house. This was really nice as it meant I would go over there for Sunday lunch, his family were always so lovely and welcoming.”

That nearness proved fateful following news of Dave being blown up! “Dave, at first, never liked it being referred to as his

‘accident’; he always said someone caused it!”“I always knew from when we first got together that he would

be going to Afghanistan, we were both of the same belief that there was a vital job to do out there and I have always agreed with his reasons for going,” she said with pride and support. “He worked very hard, and for many hours, training himself and his men – something that eventually helped save his life after being blown up. Those long hours of training were a strain on our relationship at the time!

“I suppose in a way I was quite numb about him going, as I always knew he would be going out there, and as I have already said I agreed with his reasons for wanting to go and serve. I did not cry when he left; in fact the only time I did cry, was strangely on the night before Remembrance Day, when I dreamed he had died out there. Each day was just a countdown to when he came home!”

Hayley and Dave’s parents had often talked about what they would do if there was bad news; that day was not long in coming. “It’s weird how clearly you remember the day; I had cleaned the bathroom, made coffee and was getting ready to go to his parent’s house for roast dinner as it was Sunday.

“It was about midday and I heard someone at the door and I could see figures standing the other side through the glass. It took a few seconds to react but his dad was quick to say Dave was alive, it was just an injury – my first thought was something like a sprained ankle or something – ‘injury’ just does not do

As Remembrance Sunday approaches we remember those that have given their lives and limbs in the defence of our nation; but equally important are the unsung heroes of every conflict fought around the world, those that are left at home; the wives, partners, siblings and parents.

Hayley and Adjustable Dave


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justice to what actually happened.” As Hayley spoke she was calm and collected, and she continued with her and Dave’s story.

“At that point none of us knew the extent of Dave’s injuries but with his parents was a Welfare Officer from the army and she explained about the IED; behind her and pinned to my mirror was a photo of Dave and the realisation hit me that he would never be able to run again, and do all the things he did again. As the Welfare Officer spoke Dave was in surgery in Afghanistan just four hours after the explosion.”

The army took great care of Hayley and Dave’s parents. “The army could not have done more, they found us a flat in Birmingham where Dave was hospitalised after being flown back to the UK, they paid for car-parking made sure we had food and everything we needed.”

She received a much needed message from one of Dave’s friends in the war zone. “He got a message back to say Dave was still looking ‘buff’, he always did look fit. I cried for 24 hours!

“It was about five or six on that Sunday evening that we discovered he had lost both legs; we were like zombies and just carried on, almost on autopilot, we even still made the roast dinner! We slept little but when we woke the next morning, it really sank in.”

Monday, as Dave was being flown back to the UK, was a hard day for the family, as they knew then that they would not be able to see him until the Tuesday morning. “Once he was back here we saw him before he went into surgery again – his legs had already gone by then!” she said, her voice just a little softer by now. “I saw his face and then just looked down to where his legs should have been; but I could see that it was still him in the bed, it was still him!”

The first thing he said was to his mum, and her told her; “I am OK, but I am just a bit shorter!”

“Since that first day life has just sort of fallen into place,” Hayley continued. “This is our life now and we just get on with it, yes there are legs everywhere, and Dave has so many shoes and trainers it is ridiculous. There is a wheelchair next to the bed, and trainers everywhere. It has not changed how we are together, except now of course we do live together, and we are not getting married until he gives up smoking.” It was the first stern note in her voice.

The couple are indeed very comfortable together and offer each other great support and humour. Dave’s recent birthday present was a basketball net for the garden, to go along with his trampoline. Hayley gets far more baskets than Dave, something she is very proud of. “The weird thing to get used to is that he is always different heights because of his different legs and their different uses. He is my Adjustable Dave!

“Living with his frustrations is worse than his injuries; we can all just leap out of bed but Dave has to work out how to do simple tasks like that – he always has to work out stuff before he does it. When he is in his legs people give him respect but when he is in his wheelchair he feels people pity him.

“When I first saw his damaged legs with the scar tissue, it was a case of not being shocked but more about it being worse for him in that he did not have the freedom any more to do the things he loved and used to do. After spending time packing his wounds for him it sort of brought us closer together. My first big fear was that he would push me away because he would think that I felt different toward him; but, it has always been just Hayley and Dave.”

What is the best and worse thing for Hayley? The worse things are the frustrations; I can never make his legs better and that’s the only way to make it all better,” she answered, “The best thing is him still being here and being Dave; just being himself because with everything he has been through he has still remained the same character – he is just the same, he is Dave!”

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Yet suffering can give birth to a desire to help others avoid a similar experience and can change lives in a positive and rewarding way. So it was for Lynne Squibb and Diane Salisbury, the sisters who founded the Hampshire Asbestos Support and Awareness Group (HASAG) after the death, in 2005, of their father Dave Salisbury from Mesothelioma.

There cannot be many who have not heard of Asbestos and know that it is linked to a fatal lung condition, but how many know that mining of the mineral Asbestos began over 4,000 years ago, when it was used to strengthen earthenware pots and cooking utensils? Its use became widespread with the Industrial Revolution; when it was viewed as the miracle mineral; and peaked in 1975, with mining in 25 countries across the world. Asbestos was valued for its resistance to fire, heat, electrical and chemical damage; and its affordability led to its use in manufacturing and for applications such as building insulation.

The link between Asbestos and early death and lung problems was first noticed in the early 1900’s in Asbestos mining towns, and the first documented death related to the mineral was in 1906. The majority of deaths related to Asbestos exposure are from Mesothelioma which is a form of cancer of the lining of the lung, rather than the lung itself; even the smallest amount of exposure can lead to the disease.

When Dave was first diagnosed with the condition there was no support locally. Both he and his family felt tremendously isolated and frustrated by the fact that they could not get access to the treatment which would have given Dave a better quality of

life in his last months; and could find very little information about the condition or any benefits or help that might be available.

Mesothelioma is always terminal, with a good prognosis being 18 months to two years. The majority of sufferers start with breathlessness which worsens and is accompanied by a cough. These are symptoms of the build up of fluid within the cavity outside the lung. Many who get the disease have worked with Asbestos, but some can succumb from second hand exposure. Lynne told me of a sufferer, diagnosed in her 40’s, whose contact had come from sitting on her Grandfather’s lap. Another had the disease from washing her husband’s overalls and whilst she sadly died, he is still alive. It is not known why some succumb and others don’t but Lynne feels that we will see a peak in deaths from the condition in the next eight years; explained by the fact that whilst blue and brown Asbestos were banned in 1980s; white asbestos was not banned until 1999.

Prior to this Asbestos was widely used across Hampshire, and this area is now a hotspot for Asbestos related disease, which is why founding HASAG has been such a valuable and rewarding experience for Lynne and Diane. However, back then, all they wanted to do was meet other people who had been affected by Asbestos, and so put an advert in a local paper for a coffee morning. Quite a few turned up and this was the start of HASAG and what has now become a full time occupation for Lynne, Diane and Lisa, who lost an Aunt to the disease.

“When Dad was ill it took 10 phone calls to find out what was needed” explains Lynne. “There was no one who could advise

us on hospices, benefits, compensation or occupational therapy. We did not want others to go through the same experience.”

So within six months of that first coffee morning the girls found themselves with a hospital contract, acting as advisors to the victims and relatives of the disease. Today Dianne, Lynne and Lisa spend their time on home visits across the South of England. They receive referrals from 16 hospitals, are involved in lobbying parliament, and are part of a country wide group of asbestos related charities. And it doesn’t end there; they also hold two coffee mornings a month, organise raffles, days out, raise funds and hold an annual awareness day.

Like all cancers Mesothelioma is cruel, with the sufferers being the innocent victims of something completely outside their control. Dave Salisbury paid a heavy price, all the more so because the family had so little support at the end of his life. However he did leave a legacy, in the form of his daughters and their wish that no one else should go through the same experience.

Where there is a negative there is a positive and for Lynne, Diane and Lisa the positive is that they can help to make the journey as stress free as possible for other sufferers and their families.

Lynne’s final words were “We take comfort from that.”

support and awareness

Sometimes the legacy a person leaves behind can never be envisioned beforehand, especially when the circumstances in which death occurs are far from ideal.

To conTacT HaSaG:Lynne: 02380 010 015LiSa: 02380 010 016

www.HaSaG.co.ukDonations to:HASAG. 79 Radstock Road, Southampton, SO19 2HT

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We offer a house clearance service (charges may apply) CONTACT USTelephone: 0800 8048010Email: [email protected] Address: 51-55 Elm Grove, Southsea, Portsmouth PO5 1JF

We will accept and collect for free your good quality old furniture and electrical items to raise funds for DEBRA.

Washing machinesFridges and dishwashers

Tables and chairsSofas and armchairs

TVs, DVD players and Hi-Fi stereosOther small electrical and furniture items

WANTEDFURNITURE & ELECTRICAL ITEMS

www.debra.org.ukA charity registered in England and Wales (1084958) and Scotland (SC039654)

Please note we may not be able to accept some items due to safety or quality reasons. Free collection of smaller items is at the discretion of

the store manager. Our van drivers will make the final decision regarding the collection of any donations.

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Wanted Ad Southsea 188mm.pdf 20/10/2012 20:18:55

The charity DEBRA is opening a Furniture & Electrical Charity Superstore at 51 Elm Grove, Southsea, Portsmouth. The store which opens on Wednesday 21 November 2012 at

11.00am is in desperate need of good quality used furniture and electrical items to sell for the charity.

DEBRA is the only national charity that supports individuals and families affected by Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) – a rare genetic skin condition which causes the skin to blister and shear at the slightest touch. One in 17,000 births are affected by EB, which is caused by a breakdown in the natural proteins that hold the skin and internal membranes together, causing blisters and sores that have to be lanced and dressed daily – an excruciatingly painful procedure, taking hours.

Ben Merrett, Chief Executive, DEBRA, “We are very excited to be opening our second Furniture & Electrical Charity Superstore. We are expanding our successful charity retail arm to include higher value furniture and electrical stores to fund research and ultimately a cure for EB. Many of our research projects are reaching a stage where they can begin clinical trials. These exciting but costly stages need recurring and increased income streams which we are determined to provide with the help of this retail expansion”.

An example of one of these ground breaking research projects involves having fibroblasts, the cells that produce the collagen that EB patients are missing, injected into damaged areas of skin. Fibroblast trials have proved successful for a number of people with the condition, wounds heal must faster on these areas and the stability of skin improves noticeably. In comparison, without treatment, people with EB can experience open wounds and blisters that take months to heal, with some never completely healing at all.

A participant of one of the Fibroblast trials explains the difference the treatment has made to their life, “Although the injections can be painful, the pain can be managed and I feel that the experience is a short-term pain for a long-term gain, especially as EB is generally so painful to live with day-to-day! My skin is greatly improved – I’m still amazed by it! This treatment is not a cure, but it has proved to be a wonderful intervention. I can now go without dressings in the treated areas and have had no further infections or deep ulcers, only dry, superficial wounds that heal in three days”.

The research which resulted in this effective treatment is an example of the way DEBRA hopes to help other people living with this debilitating condition. The planned retail expansion will provide the recurring income needed to fund similar life

changing research into treatments with the ultimate goal of attaining a range of cures to enable people to live pain-free.

If you have any unwanted furniture or electrical goods you would like to donate to the store or a few hours you could spare volunteering, please call 0800 8048010 or email [email protected]. To find out more about DEBRA and EB visit www.debra.org.uk.


As you approach the archway front door of a lovely Victorian house in the beautiful old village of Botley,

it is opened by a friendly, welcoming young couple and you are invited into the interior of what appears to be a tasteful boutique hotel.

Old Age Idyll

However this is Hollybank Rest Home, a recently renovated and extended 23 bed care home and the couple are owners Glynne and Emma Pusey.

Glynne and Emma have been in charge here for just over 4 years following the retirement of Glynne’s parents who opened the home in 1988 with just four residents. They have just overseen a huge renovation project throughout the whole house whilst maintaining the highest levels of care for the residents who remained throughout the project.

Glynne’s Mum had many years of experience as a district nurse and over the years developed a passion to provide the best care for the elderly, in a family home environment. Much has changed since then, especially in terms of rules

and regulations and of course, health and safety. Hollybank itself has now been extended to provide luxurious facilities for 23 residents. At the beginning Hollybank used to meet the needs of residents, nowadays the care provided meets the needs and desires of an increasingly discerning population, not only with dignity and respect but with encouragement to live a full and active life. What hasn’t changed is the passion to provide the best possible care in a family environment.

Glynne grew up at Hollybank and met Emma when she started work as a carer aged 18. Now their children are often found chatting with the residents. Glynne and Emma are accompanied by Chris, an experienced registered care manager who has been at Hollybank for 21 years. Their

joint experience ensures continuity of care and their huge investment in staff training and development means that all residents are looked after by care professionals who prioritise dignity and compassion. As standards of care in the industry rise, so the team at Hollybank have worked hard to ensure that those standards are always exceeded.

It is a sad fact that there is a massive shortage of care beds now. The post war ‘Baby Boomers’ are in their sixties and people are living longer – Apparently 70 is the new 50! Dementia is also becoming more common and Hollybank specialises in the care of residents with dementia. The refurbishment has been carried out bearing their special needs in mind. Patterns, for example, are kept to a minimum as dementia patients often try to ‘pick up’ patterns from carpets or wallpaper.

Hollybank has WiFi throughout, enabling residents to use the latest technology for entertainment or to stay in contact with their loved ones. Each individually designed room has a luxurious en-suite wet room, although a ‘family bathroom’ with a lovely deep bath is also available. There is a ‘therapy room’ for hairdressing, although alternative therapies or relaxation is also available. The lounge is bright and airy and the furniture throughout the home is specially designed to be pressure point relieving, ensuring the ultimate comfort.

The new kitchen means that lovely home cooked food is produced and meals are designed to meet all nutritional requirements. All the work has been completed by a wonderful local builder and his team - who even had one of the residents acting as ‘foreman’!

Emma and Glynne are quick to point out that they are lucky enough to meet wonderful people who have had fulfilled and interesting lives and that they get great joy from hearing their residents stories , including those of Stanley , their oldest resident who celebrated his 100th birthday this year. They are saddened though, that they often don’t meet people until they have already reached crisis point, either in hospital and unable to return home or a family member suffering guilt at ‘having to put a loved one into a home’

Their advice is simple – don’t leave it too late. Make the choice of where and how you will spend your last years while you still can and don’t be afraid to live the life you want to live

Hollybank Rest Home

41 Winchester StreetBotley

SouthamptonHampshireSO30 2EB

TEL: 01489 784144FAX:01489 798740

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As you approach the archway front door of a lovely Victorian house in the beautiful old village of Botley,

it is opened by a friendly, welcoming young couple and you are invited into the interior of what appears to be a tasteful boutique hotel.

Old Age Idyll

However this is Hollybank Rest Home, a recently renovated and extended 23 bed care home and the couple are owners Glynne and Emma Pusey.

Glynne and Emma have been in charge here for just over 4 years following the retirement of Glynne’s parents who opened the home in 1988 with just four residents. They have just overseen a huge renovation project throughout the whole house whilst maintaining the highest levels of care for the residents who remained throughout the project.

Glynne’s Mum had many years of experience as a district nurse and over the years developed a passion to provide the best care for the elderly, in a family home environment. Much has changed since then, especially in terms of rules

and regulations and of course, health and safety. Hollybank itself has now been extended to provide luxurious facilities for 23 residents. At the beginning Hollybank used to meet the needs of residents, nowadays the care provided meets the needs and desires of an increasingly discerning population, not only with dignity and respect but with encouragement to live a full and active life. What hasn’t changed is the passion to provide the best possible care in a family environment.

Glynne grew up at Hollybank and met Emma when she started work as a carer aged 18. Now their children are often found chatting with the residents. Glynne and Emma are accompanied by Chris, an experienced registered care manager who has been at Hollybank for 21 years. Their

joint experience ensures continuity of care and their huge investment in staff training and development means that all residents are looked after by care professionals who prioritise dignity and compassion. As standards of care in the industry rise, so the team at Hollybank have worked hard to ensure that those standards are always exceeded.

It is a sad fact that there is a massive shortage of care beds now. The post war ‘Baby Boomers’ are in their sixties and people are living longer – Apparently 70 is the new 50! Dementia is also becoming more common and Hollybank specialises in the care of residents with dementia. The refurbishment has been carried out bearing their special needs in mind. Patterns, for example, are kept to a minimum as dementia patients often try to ‘pick up’ patterns from carpets or wallpaper.

Hollybank has WiFi throughout, enabling residents to use the latest technology for entertainment or to stay in contact with their loved ones. Each individually designed room has a luxurious en-suite wet room, although a ‘family bathroom’ with a lovely deep bath is also available. There is a ‘therapy room’ for hairdressing, although alternative therapies or relaxation is also available. The lounge is bright and airy and the furniture throughout the home is specially designed to be pressure point relieving, ensuring the ultimate comfort.

The new kitchen means that lovely home cooked food is produced and meals are designed to meet all nutritional requirements. All the work has been completed by a wonderful local builder and his team - who even had one of the residents acting as ‘foreman’!

Emma and Glynne are quick to point out that they are lucky enough to meet wonderful people who have had fulfilled and interesting lives and that they get great joy from hearing their residents stories , including those of Stanley , their oldest resident who celebrated his 100th birthday this year. They are saddened though, that they often don’t meet people until they have already reached crisis point, either in hospital and unable to return home or a family member suffering guilt at ‘having to put a loved one into a home’

Their advice is simple – don’t leave it too late. Make the choice of where and how you will spend your last years while you still can and don’t be afraid to live the life you want to live

Hollybank Rest Home

41 Winchester StreetBotley

SouthamptonHampshireSO30 2EB

TEL: 01489 784144FAX:01489 798740

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annaways

Gannaways are the proud supplier of all the fresh, high quality fruit and vegetables at Hollybank Rest Home. We are a family run business and have been established for over 35 years as a Greengrocer for retail and wholesale, we pride ourselves in our quality and service

We offer many different services including free local home delivery. Over the last 5 years we have added a florist to our business and offer all the classics and bespoke design. This also includes free local delivery. Coming soon you can visit us at www.gannaways.com. Visit us now in our shop in Bitterne.

Congratulations to Hollybank for all the hard work that they have put into the refurbishment of their rest home. We have no doubt that all their efforts will prove to be a great success.

419 Bitterne Road . Bitterne Precinct . BitterneSouthampton . SO18 5EE

Tel: 02380 441543

2A The SquareBotley, Hampshire01489 78316101489 788200

[email protected]

Hours of business:Lunch 12 noon - 3pm

Dinner 6pm - 12 midnight

Every day Including Bank Holidays

PURBANIBOTLEY

Restaurant & Take AwayLarge Parties catered for

Wishing Glynne and Emma Best Wishes in Future Business

HollybankRest Home

Specialists in Dementia Care

We have a single and 1 Lady's shared vacancy

Each room is fully equipped and has a luxurious ensuite wetroom

Compassionate and fully trained Care Professionals

Full assessment undertaken to ensure that we are able to meet your individual needs and requirements

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Due to our recent Renovation and Expansion

Phone us for a chat or pop in anytime (but please be mindful of our existing clients needs)

�01489 784144 41 Winchester Street, Botley�


Tel: 01329 661840 . E-mail: [email protected]

Portsmouth . Winchester . Romsey . Chichester

We are proud to have carried out the extensions and renovations at Hollybank and wish Glynne, Emma and the team every success for the future.

Specialists in building quality homes, major refurbishments & extensions Using only the best materials for the job, our homes are built to last

Exbury Homes The Right Choice

Quality Homes Since 1988

The

A day in the life of website designerThe world as we know it has been revolutionised by the World Wide Web, or internet to you and me. The physical market place or shopping centre has extended into cyber space, to a place where there are no storage limits, no over priced real estate rental costs, a place where the retailer can display products and services to millions of potential customers at any time of day or night, almost anywhere in the world. “Call me a bit of geek, but the limitless possibilities of the internet fascinate me!” Chatting to our tame web developer, Cathy Hudson, its clear she has a real passion for her work. Cathy owns and runs The Paper Face, a web development and design company based in Botley. “I’m amazed at the amount of businesses that own such aesthetically prefect shops in the highstreet, selling extremely popular products, undersell themselves on the internet!” Cathy continues to explain, “Your web page is your online virtual shop, an attractive and interesting front page dictates whether a customer will enter your online shop or simply skip to another, potentially loosing out on a sale” We cant deny she makes a good point, and going by her own website, she clearly has no shortage of technical and graphical skills. If you have a website in need of a revamp, you could do a lot worse than to have a chat with Cathy at The Paper Face, the cyber space designer, with real world ideas.

Why not call us and find out how we can improve your business? 01489 789 932

www.thepaperface.co.uk

[email protected]

Check out our website for all our latest stock ‘Special Offers’. www.carpetzone.co.uk

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The capital of Brunei is Bandar Seri Begawan, a city that is vibrant yet peaceful, a fusion of majestic opulence and traditional respect, a city that is both modern and timeless. The cities centre piece is the breathtaking Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, a stunning tribute to the nations’ deep-rooted faith whilst the Bruneian Kampong Ayer Water Village offers a glimpse of Brunei’s quaint Asian charm. First settled over 400 years ago above the Brunei River, the village with its stilted houses and rickety walkways can be easily reached by speedboat that makes for an entertaining and highly interesting excursion.

Bandar is one of the safest cities in the world and when heading out at night the Gadong Night Market should be high on your list, where you will be able to sample such local culinary delights as char grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves or rice rolls with deep fried prawns whilst the really adventurous can try the Ostrich balls.

Nature lovers will definitely be spoiled in Brunei. Pristine rainforests, unspoiled coral reefs, mangrove-covered islands, white sand beaches and accessible nature reserves offer visitors a dazzling array of ecotourism options. In Brunei, visitors can have the unique opportunity to walk in the rainforest canopy which houses an abundance of birds, plants, micro fauna and mammals, such as the rare Bornean proboscis monkey, making up one of the world’s richest and most diverse ecosystems. They can also stroll

around the hauntingly beautiful lakeside walkways of Tasek Merimbun or relax on the turquoise shores of Muara beach without the crowds of other Asian destinations.

For those that like a more active holiday there is an abundance of opportunities from mountain biking, white-water rafting, rock climbing, sport fishing, wreck and reef diving in the South China Sea, to jungle hiking on well-maintained trails, the ecotourism and adventure options in Brunei are endless.

Enjoy the thrill of riding a local longboat up the rapids to the nation’s various national parks scattered throughout the nation’s four districts. Learn to raft — whether white-water or on a tranquil jungle river, rafting in Brunei can be a fun experience for all ages, beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike.

Diving is another up and coming activity and Brunei offers all levels of participation, from shallow coral reefs for beginners to an incredible array of well preserved wrecks for the more experienced diver. Because diving is still in its infancy in Brunei, one of the advantages is that you will at times find that you pretty much have the dive sites to yourself. The best time to travel for visibility is March through to November when you can expect to spot sharks, rays, tropical fish as well as hard and soft corals.

a kingdom of unexpected

treasures

BRUNEI

Brunei Darussalam located on Borneo, one of the world’s bio diverse islands with a jungle that is 70 million years older than that of the Amazon Rainforest. Brunei offers

beguiling mix of Southeast Asian and Islamic culture that has a lot more to offer than a couple of days respite on route to Australia.

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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

Your Local Travel Experts

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

operators from which to choose your dream holiday.

Our expert consultants can also piece together the elements of your dream trip into a tailor-made holiday while you relax,

safe in the knowledge that your arrangements are fully bonded.

Holidays to Brunei

12 nights Borneo and Brunei from £2395 per person

Includes 10 night Borneo nature watch and 2 nights in Brunei

Economy flights from London departing 31 March 2013.Based on 2 persons sharing a twin room, subject to availability

with the local travel

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Some time ago while driving past a local lake, just before sunset, a motion on the water’s surface caught my eye; it was a battle for dinner between a cormorant and a long and meaty eel that was reluctant to become the main course.

Head thrown back the long hooked beak of the bird pointed skyward and two-thirds of the eel wriggled and twisted in an attempt to slither free. The bird swallowed and swallowed again and the fishy treat all but disappeared, it appeared the battle was won and dinner served. There again nature has a way of bringing out the survival instinct of even the simplest life-form; the eel wriggled his way back up the throat and out of the beak in a bid for freedom; the cormorant had to let him go for a split second before diving and catching his prey again. It took three attempts before dinner was finished and the big bird had finally swallowed his prey, which had actually been longer than the bird’s neck and body – where he put it I could not tell but now fed, the bird flapped his wings in wild and abandoned celebration of his victory.

In some parts of the world, the amazing fishing skills of the cormorant have been exploited by humans and are used rather than conventional nets or lines. Fishermen in China, Japan and Macedonia have trained the birds to dive and retrieve fish. Just in case the natural urge to eat takes hold, a snare is tied near the base of the bird’s throat, which allows it to only swallow small fish. When the bird captures and tries to swallow a large fish, it is caught in the bird’s throat and when it returns to the fisherman’s raft or boat, the fish is removed from its throat, placed in the basket and is on its way to market. The method is maybe not as common today, since more efficient methods of catching fish have been developed in these regions.

In Japan, cormorant fishing is called ukai and to this day the traditional forms of ukai can be seen on the Nagara River, where it has been practiced, uninterrupted for 1300 years.

This large and conspicuous waterbird; has an almost primitive appearance with its long neck and hooked bill making it appear to some as almost reptilian and prehistoric.

The classic pose that we see most often is standing with its wings held out and spread wide to dry but this very stance has

had it regarded by some as black and sinister; as well as greedy, cormorants are supreme fishers which has brought them into conflict with anglers and caused them to have been persecuted almost to extinction in the past.

They are not only found around our coastline and on rocky shores, they can also be seen on coastal lagoons and estuaries and is now increasingly being seen inland at reservoirs, lakes and gravel pits as their numbers grow. A recent survey put the numbers at approximately 9,000 breeding pairs but that number can grow to 25,000 birds during winter months. In the UK the breed has internationally important wintering numbers.

There have been claims that fish stocks have been decimated by the cormorant and this has led to a call from some quarters for a national cull to reduce numbers. For most people however they are a fascinating and beautiful creature that can soar like a vulture or race along like a winged dart just a few feet above the water’s surface.

They are normally cliff dwelling birds but in recent years more have taken to nesting in tree top colonies and it is thought that this habit has been ‘taught’ by Continental birds that have visited these shores to breed. Seaweed is the normal nest building material for cliff sites but tree nesters use twigs and branches as well as rubbish such as plastic and string. The tree roosts are causing some damage to the trees though as the droppings of the large bird can accumulate.

Eggs are laid in April in this part of the country and there are normally three or four, which hatch some 26 to 29 days later with the young fledging some 48 to 52 days later.

Whatever your opinion of this amazing bird it does capture the imagination. It appears mysterious, prehistoric, reptilian and, because of its size, clumsy. But when you watch them fly by, or catch them with their strange hump backed dive as they turn into the clever hunter there is one thing for certain, they are prehistoric in appearance, and yet a strangely attractive bird, that draws the eye toward them; especially when you have a front row seat as they battle a two-foot eel in a tussle for supper.

We often see them sat on the triangular tops of groyne markers with wings spread wide drying feathers in the sun and breeze, but the cormorant is an enigmatic sea bird about which we seemingly know little about...

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Solent Life has recently been invited to speak with the Head of one of the south’s best known Community Schools. While she is positive and upbeat about her students, staff and school, the recent debacle over the exams results have left her, and on behalf of her students, angry; but first we asked what are the challenges of running such a large state school?

“I wouldn’t do it if it was not something I enjoy, it is professionally fulfilling,” explained Ria. “What makes Brookfield special is its community and the diversity and inspiration that students and staff bring to the school. Yes, it is challenging, emotionally and intellectually but it is the challenges that also make it exciting and professionally energising.

“It is a large school but the structures that are in place mean that it is communities within communities; the House system we have works very well indeed and it gives the youngsters the chance to fit in easier and also give them a sense of belonging and a safe feeling within the larger organisation,” she added. “It also works well for the staff and fits in with their feeling of community.”

Ria went on to explain that there was a healthy House competitiveness but it is as much about taking part and being part of a team as it is about winning; “It is shared ownership and responsibility.

Students and staff alike have a shared responsibility and sense of accountability toward their House, their school, and their individual achievements!”

Having visited many schools while talking to Head Teachers, a benchmark of a schools ability to work well with everyone involved is that time between classes and during breaks; with a happy school, the sounds coming from the student body, as they move around the campus, are positive and happy sounds. While Ria stepped from her office for a moment the only sound rising from outside was from a content and happy group of young people; Brookfield is a happy place to be!

All too soon the positive talk about her school and its charges changed to one of almost despair for the passionate Head. “The children have been seriously affected by the GCSE fiasco. We were expecting our 5A* to C including Math and English, to be between 73 and 75%, our target; all the hard data was indicating that to be the case. The unforeseen change to the grade boundaries has meant that we achieved 61%, which is devastating for the youngsters.

“The grade bandwidth between January and June was changed considerably without the schools being advised and if those changes had not been there we, and the children would

have achieved our targets, or better!” It was impossible not to take note of the soft taint of anger in her voice.

“It saddens me when you hear it discussed in the media as it is about figures and numbers and nothing to do with moral responsibility to the children and the effect it has had on those students. It has shattered the confidence in both them and the staff after the commitment they have put into their learning and exams.”

“Our job now is about keeping the students focussed and re-instilling in them their confidence as learners and the value of the education process – we have to give them back a belief in themselves and what they are doing. If they work to the best of their ability there will always be a value in what they achieve.”

“When there is a fire drill and you are outside with 2,000 faces looking at you, that is when you realise the responsibility you have as a Headteacher. At that moment you are responsible for their safety, but the moment that they file back into school you are responsible for the outcomes that they achieve. Being able to contribute just a small part to the people that they become is an enormous privilege; I can’t think of any other job that I would rather have.” Ria Allen, Head Teacher at Brookfield Community School.

words & images by David Rose-Massom

meet the headA SENSE OF WORTH

To arrange a visit, please contact 01489 576335

Brookfield Community School and Language CollegeBrook Lane, Sarisbury GreenSouthampton, Hampshire SO31 7DU www.brookfield.hants.sch.ukTel: (+44) 01489 576335Fax: (+44) 01489 579914Email: [email protected]

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Find out what your local sixth form college has to offer at its

Autumn Open EveningWednesday 14th November 6.00 - 8.30pm

Mill Lane Gosport Hampshire PO12 4QAT: 023 9258 8311 F: 023 9251 1186 E: [email protected] W: stvincent.ac.uk

Call now 01329 815 200Tweet us @farehamcollegeVisit www.fareham.ac.uk

A-levelsApprenticeships

BTECsNVQs

Open Evening28th November 20125-8pm


Christmas comes early as Locks Heath Shopping Centre is

giving shoppers the chance to get their skates on and enjoy

their Skating Rink from Saturday 17th November until Sunday

13th January.

The rink will be available to the public between 10am and 10pm

every day so whether you fancy a pre-shopping skate, a fun

day out with the family, or even a romantic skate in the evening,

Locks Heath Shopping Centre certainly has your Christmas

covered!

Prices are £5 for a child, £7 for an adult and £20 for a family

(2adults, 2 children.)

And don’t forget…

This year Locks Heath Shopping Centre will be giving one lucky

shopper the chance to WIN Christmas!

Just correctly unravel the 8 anagrams of Christmas prizes

located in various shop windows around the Centre and you

could be in with a chance of winning them all!

Simply pick up an entry form from selected stores within

the Centre and you and your family could have a very merry

Christmas indeed!

Closing date is Wednesday 12th December and winners must be

available for a photo call on Saturday 15th December.

There are many ways to keep up to date with Locks Heath, follow us on twitter @locksheathsc (including #Discoverlocksheath) and add us on Facebook: ‘Locks Heath Shopping Centre’ for all the latest news and events or visit our website www.lockheathshoppingcentre.co.uk

Get your skates on at Locks Heath!

City College Southampton’s A level provision has got off to a flying start with

a 100 per cent pass and success rate for students in their first year.

The college began offering A level qualifications alongside vocational courses

last September and in 2012 the first wave of students to take the programme

received the results for the first stage of their qualifications - AS levels.

The results follow the news that City College has the top success rates for 16

to 18-year-olds in the area at advanced level (Data Information Service* 10-11

data).

City College introduced ‘combined’ A levels in September 2011 to give

students studying vocational qualifications the best of both worlds - the

academic stretch as well as the hands-on confidence. By combining A levels

with vocational qualifications the college

says students are likely to get even better

grades in their practical work, with the

A level underpinning their knowledge, and

they will have a competitive edge when they

go for jobs.

And from September 2013 City College will

expand its A level provision even further as it

offers stand-alone A levels in STEM (science,

technology, engineering and maths) subjects.

A vast breadth of subjects are on offer at the

college, with everything from business to beauty

and media to marine electronics, and students get

to choose the way they learn with a wide range

of options available. These include its new A levels

combined with vocational courses, BTECs, diplomas,

HNCs, HNDs, apprenticeships and advanced

apprenticeships.

From its city centre campus, which has had a £48m

redevelopment in recent years, it gives students the

ability to experience hands-on and academic learning

in the best possible environment, using equipment that is used in workplaces

across the world.

Facilities include a 240 seat professional theatre fitted with the latest

professional equipment, fully-functional restaurant and kitchens that are open

to the public, a professional hair and beauty salon, media suites filled with

around £1m worth of industry-standard equipment and its own TV studio,

and top of the range engineering, electrical and construction workshops.

Visit www.southampton-city.ac.uk to see a behind the scenes video showing

the wide range of opportunities available for 16-18-year-olds.

Alternatively, see for yourself at the college’s forthcoming Open Event on

Thursday 8th November, 5 to 7:30pm, or call for a personal tour.

Full details can be found on the website at www.southampton-city.ac.uk.

100 per cent pass and success rate for first A level students at City College

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Christmas!Discover the key to a great...

17th November – 13th JanuaryChristmas Skating Rink • 10am - 10pm

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Congratulations to Glynne & Emma of Hollybank Rest Home on completing such an amazing refurbishment!from everyone at Winton Healthcare Limited

At Winton Healthcare we are trained to install, repair, service and test a wide range of products including:• Electric profiling beds (Hospital and Care Home types)• Alternating pressure relieving mattresses• Mobile and overhead hoists, stand-aids (including LOLER Testing)• Care home consumables• Lean processes

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A wedding hair stylist designer from Cowplain, Hampshire has been shortlisted in a national wedding awards scheme. Annette Bradford from Elegance Bridal Coiffure is in the final ten hair stylists in the hitched.co.uk Breakthrough Awards.

Annette opened her salon, Elegance Bridal Coiffure in Cowplain as she felt that the area was in need of something dedicated to bridal hair. Her salon is a tranquil place where a bride can go for her hair trial as well as on the big day, but Annette still offers the flexibility of travelling to the bride’s home or venue on the wedding day, a service she feels is unique to the area.

The UK’s leading wedding website, hitched.co.uk has launched the hitched Breakthrough Awards (HBAs) shortlist. The HBAs recognise talent in the wedding industry for companies that have been in business since the 1st of January 2011.

50 people (ten in each category) have been shortlisted by expert judges in five categories including wedding cake design, wedding floristry, wedding stationery, wedding photography and wedding hair styling. The 50 shortlisted have been narrowed down from hundreds of entries from all over the country with the editor of Salon magazine and Boutique magazine, Gemma Ward selecting the ten hair stylists finalists.

Annette said: “My salon is so unique to this area and I am so proud of the response I have had over the last year I thought that entering the HBAs would be a fantastic way of letting brides know about the experience they could have when it comes to their wedding hair.”

To vote for Annette, simply go to www.hitched.co.uk/HBA/voting and click on Annette Bradford in the wedding hair stylist category.

Local wedding hair stylist shortlisted for national award

Call for a free consultation01489 565456

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T H E R U L E S :

All images must be taken by the named photographer and the

photographer should not be a professional (eg earning the bulk

of their income from photography). Images should be ‘landscape’

in format, saved as Jpegs and named for their location. Images

should then be sent via email 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]

DON’T FORGET THAT THIS YEAR we have an extra prize of The Young Photographer of the Year.

Our thanks for the continued sponsorship from the London Camera Exchange, Fareham branch.

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]

competitionphoto2013

A Farewell To Film

October’s winner… orla roe

It was in the mid 1970s that I first picked up a camera, and once the bug had well and truly bitten the amount of equipment and lenses that I carried grew. There was one bag

for the hard camera gear and another smaller bag for the film stock that was needed.

Kodachrome transparency film to begin with, until Fuji Film brought out their amazing Velvia.

First produced in 1935 Kodachrome was one of the first successful colour materials and was used for both cinematography and still photography. For many years it was the stable product for professional colour photography, especially for images intended for publication in print media. Due to the widespread transition to digital photography, Kodachrome lost its market share, its manufacturing was discontinued in 2009 and its processing ended in 2010.

Because of the ever changing light conditions a selection of film speeds needed to be carried, 50asa, as it was then but later called ‘ISO’, for bright sunny days, and 200 or 400 for duller days.

That bag of film also carried some print film, for different work or subjects, again in varying film speeds. Then there was the Black and White film and personal preference was always the Ilford brand. FP4 was a fine grain film that was unrivalled in the market place and offered superb quality prints from the negatives. For lower light conditions it was the HP4, this was a much grainier film quality but many photographers used this as their monochrome film of choice as that grain offered some amazing imagery.

Many professional photographers, and some amateurs, still use film stock but for most of us it is now digital photography! No extra bag with a selection of various films of varying speeds but now the twist of a dial, or a switch of settings on the mini computer monitor on the back of the camera and then back to the home computer for a download and post production where you can choose colour or monochrome to suit the image.

I miss the excitement of waiting for the transparencies to arrive via the post to see if the ‘shot’ wanted had been achieved, from just 36 opportunities that a roll of film offered. I don’t miss the cost of every roll of film though. There was a certain romance about film cameras and definitely an art and craft to getting the right shot, whereas now for many photographers it is if you take enough images you are bound to get one or two good ones.

Would I go back to film? For fun maybe, but for work digital is easier, I can control every aspect of my work from the first look through the viewfinder to the final computer generated image. Then again; there was the fun of the darkroom and physically manipulating the prints!

words by david rose-massom

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T H E R U L E S :

All images must be taken by the named photographer and the

photographer should not be a professional (eg earning the bulk

of their income from photography). Images should be ‘landscape’

in format, saved as Jpegs and named for their location. Images

should then be sent via email 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]

DON’T FORGET THAT THIS YEAR we have an extra prize of The Young Photographer of the Year.

Our thanks for the continued sponsorship from the London Camera Exchange, Fareham branch.

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]

competitionphoto2013

A Farewell To Film

October’s winner… orla roe

It was in the mid 1970s that I first picked up a camera, and once the bug had well and truly bitten the amount of equipment and lenses that I carried grew. There was one bag

for the hard camera gear and another smaller bag for the film stock that was needed.

Kodachrome transparency film to begin with, until Fuji Film brought out their amazing Velvia.

First produced in 1935 Kodachrome was one of the first successful colour materials and was used for both cinematography and still photography. For many years it was the stable product for professional colour photography, especially for images intended for publication in print media. Due to the widespread transition to digital photography, Kodachrome lost its market share, its manufacturing was discontinued in 2009 and its processing ended in 2010.

Because of the ever changing light conditions a selection of film speeds needed to be carried, 50asa, as it was then but later called ‘ISO’, for bright sunny days, and 200 or 400 for duller days.

That bag of film also carried some print film, for different work or subjects, again in varying film speeds. Then there was the Black and White film and personal preference was always the Ilford brand. FP4 was a fine grain film that was unrivalled in the market place and offered superb quality prints from the negatives. For lower light conditions it was the HP4, this was a much grainier film quality but many photographers used this as their monochrome film of choice as that grain offered some amazing imagery.

Many professional photographers, and some amateurs, still use film stock but for most of us it is now digital photography! No extra bag with a selection of various films of varying speeds but now the twist of a dial, or a switch of settings on the mini computer monitor on the back of the camera and then back to the home computer for a download and post production where you can choose colour or monochrome to suit the image.

I miss the excitement of waiting for the transparencies to arrive via the post to see if the ‘shot’ wanted had been achieved, from just 36 opportunities that a roll of film offered. I don’t miss the cost of every roll of film though. There was a certain romance about film cameras and definitely an art and craft to getting the right shot, whereas now for many photographers it is if you take enough images you are bound to get one or two good ones.

Would I go back to film? For fun maybe, but for work digital is easier, I can control every aspect of my work from the first look through the viewfinder to the final computer generated image. Then again; there was the fun of the darkroom and physically manipulating the prints!

words by david rose-massom

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Basmati Restaurant at the Locks Heath Centre is the latest in a small chain of eateries where the à la carte menu offers dishes that cover a wide area of the Asian sub continent, including India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. In fact a glance through the menu will reveal Bengali dishes, Mogul delicacies and a delicious sounding Parsi apricot chicken.

Of course we had to begin with poppadoms which were dry, crisp and served with the usual accompaniments of mango chutney, mint sauce, onion chutney and a slightly hot and course lime pickle. As well as being a great appetiser, also a lovely dish to begin conversations over.

For a starter I tried something different, in my mind, I find the combination of curry and fish to be uncomfortable partners and yet it is always an enjoyable dish. Tilapia Biran is a light starter of boneless fillet of tilapia fish, pan fried in light spices. Tilapia is an underrated, firm-textured, white fish which are farmed around the world.

There was no need for a knife as the flesh was soft, delicate and yet quite firm; it was light in flavour with a brief coating of gentle spices that were barely discernible and yet gave the fish an amazing, easy flavour. Colourful presentation also helped the overall experience as this was obviously a dish put together with care by the chef. Every mouthful was an enjoyable treat.

The lids were lifted from the dishes that held our main courses and immediately the aroma of warm spices and rich sauces wafted across the table. Bombay Potato, soft pieces of potato, not swimming in sauce but gently coated with a selection of spices. The vegetable was perfectly cooked and made a great extra dish.

Chicken Dansak is a classic dish; Persian in origin it was served as part of an emperor’s feast. It is formed by a thick lentil base flavoured with spices, cane extract, tamarind and lemon juice which gives it a hot, but slightly sweet, and sour, taste. The chicken was chunky, but soft and melted in the mouth with the slightly hot spices adding an exciting kick to the experience.

Asian

Sometimes a grand frontage has little behind it, nothing more than a façade; so it comes as a pleasant surprise when a little

shop front, tucked away under some stairs, opens out like Dr Who’s Tardis into a spacious and comfortable interior. Basmati Restaurant in Locks Heath has even more surprises once you open the menu.

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My choice was one of the Basmati Restaurant’s ‘Signature’ dishes. These are traditional dishes to which the chefs have added their own distinctive touch, using their extensive knowledge of spices and flavourings. Top of the list in the menu was an exotic sounding Wild Lemon Lamb and despite many fine sounding dishes on the page below it, its description had me wanting to try this unique main course.

This is a dish often prepared in Bengali homes and cooked with specially imported Bangladeshi Shatkora lemons, which give it a unique deep and aromatic lemon flavour.

I was expecting quite a harsh tang of lemon but in reality the citrus offers just a delicate, but rich after taste. This is a mild dish when it comes to hotness but a full-on, wonderful tasting and exciting meal. It was the star of the show that evening and it simply

sent my taste buds into raptures. The lamb was shredded and this offered not only an amazing texture to the dish, but also gave out the full taste of the meat. Creamy sauce, soft lamb, the lemon tang blended into the sauce and it was an amazing combination of taste and texture.

The Pilau rice that I ordered to go with it was a soft yellow colour, it was just perfectly firm and each grain was clean and separate.

So, what may not have seemed too promising, turned out to be a wonderful evening of good service, lovely surroundings and a very fine, and different, selection of foods from Asia; that left us with an enjoyable feast that will stick in the memory for many reasons, but most of all for that delicious lamb main course.

BASMATI RESTAURANT open 7 days a week from 5pm till 11pm

10a Locks Heath Centre, SO31 6DX

01489 575556 www.basmatigroup.co.uk☎

Our meal without drinks came in at under £30. The kitchen uses no artificial flavours or preservatives and the poultry used is welfare audited.

words & images by david rose-massom

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MEET THE BUYER 2013

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Please note our entrance is no longer through Deacons Boatyard, now approx 100

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Food & Drink | 31

To advertise call: 01962 735137 SEPTEMBER ISSUE 51

Kimbridge Farm ShopFROM SMOKED TROUT TO LOCAL MEAT

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AT KIMBRIDGE FARM SHOPWe endeavour to find the best local produce around the local area. While farming our own beef at Chalcroft Farm, West End we work closely with over 20 other Hampshire farmers to find the best pork, beef and lamb. We have won numerous awards for our sausages and most recently we have won a 'Great Taste Award',

which are the Oscars of the food industry, for our traditional faggots. We are members of Hampshire Fare and the prestigous Q Guild of Butchers Scheme.

With the Christmas season looming we will be offering the best free range and barn reared turkeys as well as all your festive needs. We have quality wines, ales, cheese, fruit & vegtables, ice cream, Kimbridge trout, chutneys, Christmas sweets, biscuits and gifts and so much more.

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OWTONS TRADITIONAL BUTCHERSAT KIMBRIDGE FARM SHOPWith the Christmas season looming we will be offering the best free range and barn reared turkeys as well as all your festive needs. We have quality wines, ales, cheese, fruit & vegetables, ice cream, Kimbridge trout, chutneys, Christmas sweets, biscuits, gifts and much more. Christmas order forms are now available instore along with any advice you need on size of poultry. For the best quality at the best price give us a try.WE ARE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK - WITH FREE PARKINGMONDAY- SATURDAY 9AM - 5PM SUNDAYS 10AM - 4PMOwtons at Kimbridge Farm Shop, Kimbridge, Near Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 0LE.

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To find out more and book your free review, give us a call on 01489 878 300 or email us at [email protected] quoting SL04.

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Although the State Pension provides a limited income (currently £5,311 for a single person, per annum, based on a full NI record), it falls drastically short of providing a comfortable lifestyle. So how do we avoid poverty in retirement?

First, decide how large a fund you will need. One method is to multiply your target retirement income by 25. So, if you think you’ll need £25,000 a year, aim for a fund of £625,000.

Next, select the most appropriate investment vehicles to achieve your goal. Property, Investment Bonds and ISAs have all proved popular over recent years but don’t offer the same tax breaks or guarantees as a pension. Be sure to take advice from a financial professional.

And remember, retirement funds are coming under increasing pressure from the fact that we’re living longer.

In 1981, a person’s pension was expected to last them for 16 years. Now it needs to last 22 years*.

So where £100,000 provided an annual income of £6,250 in 1981, £137,500 is required today to achieve the same income. So what are your best income options? You can exchange your pension pot for a guaranteed annual income called an annuity. They are fixed for life but can be linked to inflation and provide your partner with an income when you pass away. The annuity rate offered by the life assurer is affected by the prevailing yield on gilts and corporate bonds. Annuity rates have recently been falling. Nevertheless, it is imperative to exercise the Open Market Option – your right to compare annuity rates in the market – before making a decision. An alternative to an annuity is income drawdown which seeks a superior return by investing in assets such as stocks and shares. With recent market volatility they have not performed well but bear in mind markets will, eventually, bounce back.

Deciding how you take your pension benefits is complex and necessitates professional advice. All appointments are held in the strictest confidence and without cost or obligation.

*Source: Government Actuary’s Department – January 2009. Assumes pension benefits commence at age 65. The title `Partner Practice’ is a marketing term used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

J.S. Wealth Management is a Partner Practice of St. James’s

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Unfortunately following announcements from many of the high street banks, many people are finding that their financial advisor is no longer available to offer them guidance.

Lloyds banking group is the latest to announce the axing of its mass-market investment advice service following on the heels of Barclays, HSBC and RBS. The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has conducted a Retail Distribution Review and introduced new rules and regulations to ensure greater clarity over the different types of financial advice available. However the cost of complying with the RDR is considerable and as a result, offering such advice is no longer profitable and therefore the service has been limited to those with over £100,000 (and is no longer free) or has been withdrawn altogether.

It may be that you are one of those customers who has been sold a financial product from a company such as Scottish Widows or Legal and General via your high street

bank, with little or no advice, and who will now discover that you are unable to alter the product to suit your needs or even top up an ISA without being referred directly to the parent company.

So what are your choices now? Should you keep filing away the paperwork without looking at it or understanding it? Should you ignore the possibility that you may not be getting the best return on your investments? Should you pay for financial advice ? Or should you do nothing at all?

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It’s time to come cleanWhether you have wood or stone floors,

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We are a family run company who specialise in supplying quality Kitchens to suit all budgets. We will project manage all aspects of fitting from start to finish and for your peace of mind we are proud members of

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107120 SolentLife 297_210 wk18.indd 1 25/10/2012 15:42


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Acer, hawthorn and birch all give wonderful seasonal displays in gold, red and orange. Cotoneasters are loaded with red or yellow berries, which birds feast on. Do your bit for wildlife by planting native hedges, such as hazel, dogwood and the already mentioned hawthorn and birch. It will help encourage a host of wildlife as well as bringing nature and diversity into your garden.

Get fruity this month and plant fruit trees and soft fruit ready for next year. Apple, pear and plum trees are in the garden centre now, along with raspberry, blackcurrant and gooseberry bushes. It’s the right time to plant them for a ripe harvest next summer.

When planting shrubs and trees, add slow-acting fertiliser to the planting hole and be generous with the compost to get them off to a healthy start. We had heavy rainfall in October but make sure your new and relocated plants are well watered in dry spells and have a thick layer of mulch. Check out the planting tips at garsons.co.uk.

It’s lovely to still have colour in the garden this time of year. Cyclamen and chrysanthemums add welcome bursts of colour. Winter flowering pansies look good in containers or you could add clusters in your borders to brighten up dull patches. Or how about a Christmas rose for a wintery display of white flowers?

Tulip bulbs can go in the ground now and this is your last chance to plant all other spring bulbs. You’ll be glad of the effort in the spring. Five inches is the right depth for bulbs that will be lifted after flowering, or eight inches for permanent planting. Plant them on a good sprinkle of horticultural grit to help with drainage. If you’ve planted any bulbs in bowls, place them in the dark and water them when the soil gets dry.

Jobs for November:� As we’re approaching the frost season, remember to protect tender plants with horticultural fleece.

� Move containers close to the house so they’re less exposed to the elements.

� Now’s the time to tidy up the garden before it gets too cold. Clear away fallen branches and leaves, but leave it a bit untidy for wildlife to go about their business.

� Roughly dig over empty patches of your borders and dig in some manure so it will be broken down by next spring.

� Don’t forget wild birds – put bird feed or scraps on a bird table and add nuts to your bird feeders, along with a water source that’s kept topped up.

Until next month, happy gardening!

NovemberGardening

The nights are closing in and gardens are winding down for the colder months but let’s not forget that autumn is nature’s time for planting. Before the frosts start, you can put in new plants or move established ones to better positions. Now is a good time to plant shrubs and hedging as the soil is warm enough to encourage root growth, even if the air is cold. Supplied by Garsons www.garsons.co.uk

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Perhaps the most important of the ‘evergreen’ plants is the ivy which provides a late source of nectar for any insects tempted out by weak autumn sunshine followed by berries which feed the birds well into the winter. Not only does it provide food at a difficult time of year, but it also gives shelter to the over-wintering chrysalis of the beautiful Holly Blue butterfly.

One of our less welcome evergreen species at Swanwick Lakes is the non-native shrub, cherry laurel. Having once escaped from local gardens, these invasive plants have reached huge sizes and are quickly out-competing our native trees and shrubs. With the help of our volunteer team, we are gradually cutting down the cherry laurel to improve the health of our woodland.

Elsewhere on the Reserve, late autumn is a great time to appreciate some of our fern species. Ferns are amazing plants whose relatives have been around on Earth for about 400 million years! They don’t produce flowers and seeds, reproducing instead by spores. Ferns and

related species are found in almost every kind of habitat and some of them, like the Horsetails, can be positive pests. But in the predominantly brown autumn woods, it’s lovely to see the green of a delicate fern frond uncurled in the sunshine.

Why not brave the November weather and come for a stroll at Swanwick Lakes? You may be surprised by how much green can still be seen.

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

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 774 408.

By November, most of the trees at Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve will have lost their leaves but scattered throughout the Reserve there will still be green leaves in evidence.

forevergreen

6th NOVEMBER 2012 Swanwick Lakes Wildlife tots- has Anyone Seen My hedgehog? 10.30am-12noon or 1-2.30pm Do you know where he might be? He is small, brown and spiky and he is probably looking for somewhere to hide. Come and help us find out more about him at our regular event for toddlers and pre-school children at Swanwick Lakes.

Contact Dawn Preston or Jess Daish-Miller on 01489 570240. Please bring warm outdoor clothing and wellies. Booking is essential as places are limited. Suggested donation £3 per child.

12th NOVEMBER 2012British Orchids 7.30pmRosemary Webb, who is an excellent photographer and orchid expert, will describe her wonderful images. To be held at Holy Trinity Church hall, West Street, Fareham, PO16 0EL. Contact Peter Adams on 01329 287653 e-mail [email protected]. Parking is available in Trinity Street or Western Road car parks. Suggested donation £2.

12th NOVEMBER 2012Swanwick Lakes – Wildlife Watch Group Wildlife Watch is a local club for young people who are interested in wildlife and the environment. The Watch Group has two events in November. Booking is essential.Saturday 3 Nov 10:30am – 12noon Winter wildfowl.thursday 15 Nov 6:30 – 8pm Night walk, bring a torch.

For more information or to book your place please contact Carly Fretwell on 07733 980980 or Michelle Crooks 07784 391604

Events in November

Words by Jess Daish-Miller Images by Darin Smith

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Solent 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…

out &aboutwords & images by david rose-massom

BEACH OF THE DEAD

A little out of the Solent Life area but still an amazing event, if not a little strange, Beach of the Dead is Brighton’s world-renowned annual Zombie Walk. Now in its 6th year, it attracts 1000’s of lost souls who embrace the macabre spirit and wear some incredibly creative costumes, all in the name of Halloween.

Superb bathrooms and kitchens are now available through INTERIA in Locks Heath after they celebrated the opening of their brand new, and stunning, showroom on the first floor overlooking the shopping precinct. The ribbon cutting was carried out by ex-Portsmouth footballer Paul Walsh.

AUTUMN FESTIVAL

INTERIA

We may be suffering with bad weather but the sun shone for a weekend in October when Sir Harold Hillier Gardens held AUTUMN FESTIVAL. It was a spectacular range of crafts, sculptures and art and even a chance to hold a beautiful barn owl. A photo and art exhibition in the entrance hall and a stroll around the beautiful gardens completed a great weekend.


TUDOR REVELS

TUDOR REVELS reached St Michaels Square in Southampton at the end of September, when a Tudor Michaelmas Market brought colour as well as the noise and fun of a bygone era, to the front of the newly renovated and reopened Tudor House Museum.

WINCHESTER ART MARKET

In Winchester the ART AND DESIGN MARKET which is held on the 3rd Sunday of each month is a collection of artists and artisans selling their crafts; ideal for unusual Christmas gifts but also great for getting some original artwork; everything from clothing, to painting, photos and nick-knacks.

CRAFT FAIR

A CRAFT FAIR chose one of the south’s best museums for its latest show. Explosions is the museum of Naval Firepower on Gosport’s waterfront and has on display everything from an arrow to an atomic bomb. It also has a lovely tea room that sits right on the water’s edge and overlooks Portsmouth Dockyard.

LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR exhibition is now open at Moors Valley Country Park near Ringwood and Solent Life were invited for a sneak preview and to chat with Lymington based category winner, ‘Living The View’, Baxter Bradford. His stunning shot of the Round the Island race yachts from Hurst Point was well deserving of its award. The stunning exhibition runs till 25th November.


WICKED & Wonderful

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The Point, Eastleigh 02380 652333

Chichester Festival Theatre

01243 781312

Salisbury Playhouse 01722 320333

Mayflower Theatre 02380 711811

Theatre Royal Winchester

01962 840440

King’s Theatre Southsea

02392 828282

Tower Arts Centre, Winchester

01962 867986

Ferneham Hall 01329 231942

Ashcroft Arts Centre Fareham

01329 310600

The Concorde Club 02380 613989

If you have anything going on, tell us here at Solent Life and

we will include it in our feature.

01489 583800 [email protected]

After week one of TV’s Strictly Come Dancing Lisa Riley topped the table and received 124,000 hits on You Tube, the biggest number of hits in one day for the show. This Christmas

she will be at the Kings Theatre, Southsea as Queen Malevola, the wicked queen, in Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs and she recently took time out from dance training to talk with Solent Life.

THE EVENT

“It is amazing that after just one minute and thirty seven seconds of dancing that Robin and I could get so many hits on You Tube!” Lisa said as we sat looking down at the stage she will be performing on this Christmas. “It is all down to my partner, Robin Windsor, who made the dance to suit me. I have never felt better or fitter, my dress for the panto has already had to be taken in by six inches and we have only done the first dance so far; it’s intense but its amazing.

“Who knew back in Bury, North Manchester that little Lisa Riley would one day be doing such a thing! Robin and I are known as ‘Camp and Camper’ on set because we play it up so much. Who knew that one minute 37 seconds would simply change my life?” she added with real surprise in her voice.

“All I did was to get out there and perform the routine that Robin devised for me; we have this cheeky mentality together and we are so in tune with one another.”

Lisa Riley is one of those actors where what you see is what you get. She is passionate about her craft and friendly with everyone around her; later outside of the theatre she spent time with a few fans and gave her time willingly and happily.

On a personal note we asked if she was a role model for woman, and people in general, of larger proportions; her reply was emphatic. “If I get one plus-size woman up on the dance floor with what I am doing on ‘Strictly’ then I will have done my job. People keep telling me that I make them smile; and for me you cannot get a

better response than that!“It is a massive drain on the body and my feet are

covered in blisters, after the first show I had seven on my left foot and five on my right, but with never less than seven hours of training a day, it is bound to take its toll on my body and feet.”

She was at Southsea for the panto a few years ago and she is pleased to be back. “Southsea is blessed to have this venue. The Kings Theatre is run by people who are totally involved with their hearts; it’s not a machine here, it’s about the people,” she said. “They get the kids in, and kids in theatre learn about confidence and being a part of the community. Plus I love to go shopping when I am down here, Gunwharf Quays will get a real battering when I arrive, my friends and family know they will get great presents at Christmas when I am here.”

In Snow White Lisa plays the Wicked Queen. “I have played the baddie three times in pantomime now, when I am normally known as a goodie, but the baddie is so much more fun, its like a food and you feed off the audiences’ reaction to you. Pantomime is like a multi-layered gateau and being the baddie is just the cherry on top!”

SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFSKINgS THEATRE, SOuTHSEA12TH DEcEmbER - 6TH JANuARybOx OFFIcE 023 9282 8282 OR WWW.KINgS-SOuTHSEA.cOm


ChildrenMusic, Comedy, Events & Theatre

cHRISTmAS AT SPINNAKER TOWER: This festive season and to coincide with Dickens bicentenary, the Spinnaker Tower will be launching a Christmas Carol themed celebration with its Christmas Past, Present and Future event. Visitors can experience nostalgia and the fun of previous Christmases with toys from a ‘Christmas Past’ on the view decks, give a ‘Present’ of food to the local food bank in exchange for an admission discount and write hopes and dreams for 2013 on decorations to adorn the sparkling Christmas ‘Future’ tree. Sarah Webb, general manager at the Spinnaker Tower, commented: “A Christmas Carol is a classic and was recently voted the number one must-read book for children. With it being Dickens’ bicentenary year, we felt it was the perfect time to combine celebrating his outstanding writing talent with the magic of Christmas.”The Spinnaker Tower is open daily from 10.00am to 6.00pm (excluding Christmas Day).See www.spinnakertower.co.uk or call 02392 857520 to book in advance or to find out more!

LEONA LEWIS: Since her meteoric rise to global fame, Leona’s incredible voice has captivated millions of people across the world. She’s broken countless sales records and smashed chart records universally. Her 2010 Labyrinth Tour won her critical acclaim as well as reinforcing her position as one of the most successful British female artists to date. Speaking about her coming tour she said. “I can’t wait to get out there and play my new songs. I had such fun on my last tour and I’m really excited about doing it again next year.”BIC Windsor Hall, Bournemouth, Fri 17th May Tickets: £35 - £55 call BH Live Tickets on 0844 576 3000, book online at www.bic.co.uk or visit the BIC or Bournemouth Pavilion Ticket Office in person.

cHRISTmAS IN FAREHAm: Christmas begins at 4.30pm on Sunday 25th November when the town centre’s festive lights are switched on. This year will see outstanding new stylish

decorations along West Street which have been tailor-made to complement the street lamp columns. Hosted by our friends from The Breeze 107, the family fun starts at 11am. Local bands and choirs including Ashcroft Arts Centre Community Choir & Streetdance, Bodyrox Productions, Glee Club UK Fareham, Igloo Music, Love Soul Choir, Miss Hayley Fisher & First Night Nerves, The Offbeat Offensive, The Undecided and the TS Tennacity Band will take to the stage throughout the day filling the town centre with seasonal cheer. Gosport Solent Brass will round the event off with a sing a long carol concert. Award-winning children’s favourite Peppa Pig will make free meet-and-greet appearances at the Performance Podium during the day at 11am, 12noon, 1pm and 2pm. She will also come on stage at 4.30pm to switch the Christmas lights on. Cinderella’s Ugly Sisters (Richard Pocock and Mark Siney) from this year’s seasonal pantomime at Ferneham Hall will make a guest appearance and entertain with some traditional family humour.

bRAVO FIgARO!: Comedian Mark Thomas is back by popular demand and the Comedian and writer returns to The Point with his new show Bravo Figaro! - A true tale of a builder’s love of opera, his battle with a degenerative illness and how to put on opera in a bungalow in Bournemouth. Thomas draws on his own relationship with his father for the piece, a personal and poignant tale that plunders the operatic themes of love, family, death and art. A self-employed builder, Thomas’s father has a passion for Verdi, Rossini, Puccini and Mozart. But when he is diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy, his life begins to crumble. As his father descends into dementia so Thomas evaluates their relationship. Inspired by his parent’s love of opera, he takes three opera singers to Bournemouth and stages a concert in his father’s living room to try to connect with him through music. Expect a rollercoaster of emotions, with plenty of laughter along the way. The Point in Eastleigh on November 23rd at 8pm. Tickets £16.50. To book, call the box office on 023 8065 2333 or www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

mADAgAScAR LIVE!: Dreamworks and Stage Entertainment Touring Productions proudly present the first arena tour of Madagascar Live! in the UK, Join Alex, Marty, Melman, Gloria and the plotting Penguins as they escape from New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on a journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. This celebration of friendship is brought vividly to life by imaginative sets and costumes, joyous dance numbers and spectacular new songs bringing West End values to the arena environment. A cast of 25 characters take the audience on a journey from Central Park Zoo all the way to the beaches of Madagascar in a song-filled show for the whole family. BIC Windsor Hall, Bournemouth; Thurs 10th to Sun 13th January. Call BH Live Tickets on 0844 576 3000, book online at www.bic.co.uk or visit the BIC or Bournemouth Pavilion Ticket Office in person. Tickets: £20 - £50, Family ticket - £99

SWAN LAKE: Russian State Ballet and Opera House with music performed live by a Philharmonic Orchestra will bring an autumn experience of this delightful ballet to Southsea this month. Tchaikovsky’s classic will be sure to enchant. Composed between 1875 and 1876, and still scored to the original music of Tchaikovsky, Swan Lake remains one of the most well-known and loved ballets of all time. First performed at Moscow’s Bolshoi Theatre in 1877 as The Lake of Swans, the ballet tells the story of Odette, a young princess who is turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer and can only be saved by her prince’s everlasting love and eternal devotion, overcoming the forces conspiring to deceive and separate them. The world famous Russian State Ballet and Opera Theatre of Komi has been delighting audiences since 1958. THE KINGS THEATRE, Southsea on Friday 16th November at 7.30. Tel:023 9282 8282 or www.kings-southsea.com


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.

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JACK AND THE BEANSTALKCrofton Amateur Dramatics Society (CADS) On the 13th, 14th, 15th , 16th December local group CADS will perform the pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk in the Crofton Hall Theatre, Stubbington. Evening performances on Thursday and Friday; afternoon matinees on Saturday and Sunday. There will be action, fun, song, and dance to make a great production. Tickets £5 child, £6 concessions, £8 adult. Ticket hotline 01329 661143.

SOUTHAMPTON CANAL SOCIETYThursday 6th December 2012 Southampton Canal Society “Annual Inter-Society Waterways Quiz” Visitors welcome. 7.45pm Chilworth Parish Hall, Chilworth SO16 7JZ.An American Supper finishes the evening. Thursday 3rd January 2013 Southampton Canal Society” Members Waterways Photographic Evening and Competition” visitors welcome 7.45pm Chilworth Parish Hall, Chilworth, SO16 7JZ www.sotoncs.org.uk

GROUNDLINGS THEATRERoman Murder Mystery Dinner: A Bloody Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. Don your togas and thinking caps to find the killer in a Roman Murder Mystery Dinner! Probe into the suspects’ backgrounds, examine clues and find who had the means, the motive and the opportunity to do away with one of their number in another of our popular interactive theatre events. Tuesday 13th November at 8pm Tickets: £18.50 includes a two-course meal Fancy dress available to hire at Groundlings wardrobe from £10

HANDEL’S MESSIAHConcert by Botley Choral Society of Handel’s Messiah on Saturday 24th November – 7.30pm at St John the Evangelist Church, West Meon. Also on Sunday 25th November – 7.30pm at All Saints Church, Botley. Tickets £12 (£10 concessions, age 16 and under free) Tel: 01489 890007 E-mail: [email protected] or www.botleychoral.co.uk

A CHRISTMAS MARKETSt Mary’s Church, Church Road, Warsash, is holding a Christmas Market on Saturday, 1st December, in the church, from 1.30 to 4.00 pm. There will be a number of stalls with a Christmas theme, and seasonal refreshments, with carols by the choir. Come and get into the Christmas spirit in a happy and relaxed atmosphere.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAYRE Park Gate Primary School Saturday on 1st December, 11.30am – 2.00pm. Go along to the Park Gate Primary School Christmas Craft Fayre where there is lots on offer for all the family including Christmas craft activities for children, games, tombola, lucky dip, refreshments, grand raffle and Santa’s grotto! Admission £1 per adult, children free. Park Gate Primary School, Northmore Road, Park Gate, Southampton SO31 6LX

ART AND CRAFT FAYRESarisbury Green Community Centre on Saturday 1st December from 10 till 4 with some of the proceeds going toward the upkeep of the Community Centre; paintings, crafts, Christmas gifts, art and craft materials and second-hand art jumble. Call Sue on 01489 798445 for details on tables bookings.

VINTAGE & RETRO VILLAGEOn the first Sunday of every month this unique market is held in the heart of Winchester from 10am till 4pm. Antique, 20th Century collectables, retro and vintage market, a fascinating event for anyone wanting to buy or sell any retro or vintage items.

CHRISTMAS BAZAARSt Margaret Mary Church CHRISTMAS BAZAAR on Saturday 8th December from 10am till 1.30pm, at Lockswood Community Centre. Grand draw with £250 first prize, gifts, crafts and cakes, toy and book stalls, festive floral decorations, home produce and Christmas Fayre stalls. The children from St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School will be singing traditional carols throughout the day.

“THE NOTE BEFORE CHRISTMAS”West End Singers will be performing their Christmas concert entitled “The Note Before Christmas” at Thornden Hall, Chandlers Ford on Sunday December 16th at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from Ingrid McIntyre 023 80 404881 priced £10 (£9 concession)

A Community concert will also be held on Sunday 9th December at the 2000 Centre at 2.45pm. Tickets/reservations (£5) can be made with Di Cooper 07919847705. There will be a range of traditional and popular music performed.

LOCKS HEATH HORTICULTURAL SOCIETYThe next meeting of the Society will be held on Wednesday 14th November at 7.30pm in the Memorial Hall, Locks Heath Park Road. Carol Watson will give a talk entitled “South Africa in Spring”. Visitors will be very welcome.


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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.

NO

VE

MB

ER

JACK AND THE BEANSTALKCrofton Amateur Dramatics Society (CADS) On the 13th, 14th, 15th , 16th December local group CADS will perform the pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk in the Crofton Hall Theatre, Stubbington. Evening performances on Thursday and Friday; afternoon matinees on Saturday and Sunday. There will be action, fun, song, and dance to make a great production. Tickets £5 child, £6 concessions, £8 adult. Ticket hotline 01329 661143.

SOUTHAMPTON CANAL SOCIETYThursday 6th December 2012 Southampton Canal Society “Annual Inter-Society Waterways Quiz” Visitors welcome. 7.45pm Chilworth Parish Hall, Chilworth SO16 7JZ.An American Supper finishes the evening. Thursday 3rd January 2013 Southampton Canal Society” Members Waterways Photographic Evening and Competition” visitors welcome 7.45pm Chilworth Parish Hall, Chilworth, SO16 7JZ www.sotoncs.org.uk

GROUNDLINGS THEATRERoman Murder Mystery Dinner: A Bloody Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. Don your togas and thinking caps to find the killer in a Roman Murder Mystery Dinner! Probe into the suspects’ backgrounds, examine clues and find who had the means, the motive and the opportunity to do away with one of their number in another of our popular interactive theatre events. Tuesday 13th November at 8pm Tickets: £18.50 includes a two-course meal Fancy dress available to hire at Groundlings wardrobe from £10

HANDEL’S MESSIAHConcert by Botley Choral Society of Handel’s Messiah on Saturday 24th November – 7.30pm at St John the Evangelist Church, West Meon. Also on Sunday 25th November – 7.30pm at All Saints Church, Botley. Tickets £12 (£10 concessions, age 16 and under free) Tel: 01489 890007 E-mail: [email protected] or www.botleychoral.co.uk

A CHRISTMAS MARKETSt Mary’s Church, Church Road, Warsash, is holding a Christmas Market on Saturday, 1st December, in the church, from 1.30 to 4.00 pm. There will be a number of stalls with a Christmas theme, and seasonal refreshments, with carols by the choir. Come and get into the Christmas spirit in a happy and relaxed atmosphere.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAYRE Park Gate Primary School Saturday on 1st December, 11.30am – 2.00pm. Go along to the Park Gate Primary School Christmas Craft Fayre where there is lots on offer for all the family including Christmas craft activities for children, games, tombola, lucky dip, refreshments, grand raffle and Santa’s grotto! Admission £1 per adult, children free. Park Gate Primary School, Northmore Road, Park Gate, Southampton SO31 6LX

ART AND CRAFT FAYRESarisbury Green Community Centre on Saturday 1st December from 10 till 4 with some of the proceeds going toward the upkeep of the Community Centre; paintings, crafts, Christmas gifts, art and craft materials and second-hand art jumble. Call Sue on 01489 798445 for details on tables bookings.

VINTAGE & RETRO VILLAGEOn the first Sunday of every month this unique market is held in the heart of Winchester from 10am till 4pm. Antique, 20th Century collectables, retro and vintage market, a fascinating event for anyone wanting to buy or sell any retro or vintage items.

CHRISTMAS BAZAARSt Margaret Mary Church CHRISTMAS BAZAAR on Saturday 8th December from 10am till 1.30pm, at Lockswood Community Centre. Grand draw with £250 first prize, gifts, crafts and cakes, toy and book stalls, festive floral decorations, home produce and Christmas Fayre stalls. The children from St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School will be singing traditional carols throughout the day.

“THE NOTE BEFORE CHRISTMAS”West End Singers will be performing their Christmas concert entitled “The Note Before Christmas” at Thornden Hall, Chandlers Ford on Sunday December 16th at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from Ingrid McIntyre 023 80 404881 priced £10 (£9 concession)

A Community concert will also be held on Sunday 9th December at the 2000 Centre at 2.45pm. Tickets/reservations (£5) can be made with Di Cooper 07919847705. There will be a range of traditional and popular music performed.

LOCKS HEATH HORTICULTURAL SOCIETYThe next meeting of the Society will be held on Wednesday 14th November at 7.30pm in the Memorial Hall, Locks Heath Park Road. Carol Watson will give a talk entitled “South Africa in Spring”. Visitors will be very welcome.


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PC Start Up Problems Data Recovery & Backup

Wireless, Network & Broadband

P r o n t a C a l l

PLEASE CALL MIKE ON: 07958 41010101489 578476

NO CALL OUT CHARGE

DOMESTICAPPLIANCE REPAIRS

10% DISCOUNT WITH THIS ADVERT

TUMBLE DRYERS OAP DISCOUNT DISHWASHERS

COOKERS WASHING MACHINES

SAME DAY SERVICE NO VAT

NEW MACHINES SUPPLIED & FITTED

FAMILY RUN BUSINESS

CR

AF

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SHOWERS & BATHROOMSTHE COMPLETE

SERVICE

B A T H R O O M S

01489 579461 www.aquabathrooms.com

FREE QUOTES 31 YEARS EXPERIENCE

DESIGN INSTALLATION

PLUMBING • TILING CARPENTRY ELECTRICAL

STEAMROOMS WETROOMS

WATER SOFTNERS PLASTERING

BUILDING WORK SUPPLY & FIT

PART ‘P’ CERTIFIED

For a first class installation with tiling that’s second to none

CALL

where reputation matters

• Washing Machines/Vacuums• Dishwashers/Cookers

• Tumble Dryers/Microwaves

NO CALL-OUT CHARGE

01329 844 88401489 559 687

Mob: 07879 841881

Repairs & ServicingOver 20 years experience

£5 off any repair with this advertisement

BUTLERDomestic Appliances

Cleaner ChimneysChimney Sweep

All Hampshire coveredCertificates issued:lMember of National Association of Chimney SweepslTrading Standards ApprovedlCowls Fitted

Warsash Hampshire01489 57854107540 841022www.cleanerchimneys.co.uk

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Business Directory

Please contact us on…

01489 583800

advertise your business here?…

CONSTRUCTION

Call: 07748 255356 parkerbrownconstruction

@googlemail.com

l New build & extensionsl Period renovationsl Kitchens & bathroomsl Groundworksl Demolition & site clearanceAll work carried out to a very high standard.

JOB DONE HANDYMAN SERVICES

• Decorating • Tiling • Plumbing • Gardening

• Coving • Plastering

- NO JOB TOO SMALL -

GIVE GRAHAM A CALL ON MOB: 07969 112748TEL: 01329 519149

www.barrchimneys.co.uk15 Fairmead Walk, Cowplain, Waterlooville

BARR CHIMNEYSChimney Specialists Ltd

Domestic Work Specialists • Fully Insured Fast, Clean, Reliable Service

• All Areas Covered Vacuum & Brush • All Types of Cowls Fitted All

Woodstoves Installed

T: 02392 648400 M: 07885 643638

10% DISCOUNT ON ALL LINERS

Your local papercraft supplier

Greating cards, scrapbook layouts & those special place cards for the Christmas table!

25p per pack of 6Hurry While Stocks Last

The Stash, 98 West Street, Portchester 02392 200874

(closed Mondays)

Now in stock...christmas toppers

Visit us at...


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22G Middle Road, Park Gate, SO31 7GH

(Behind Sheila Hurst Florist)

Service with a style!Quality accessories01489 57611807795 056649

www.dollybags.co.uk

SG

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FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION

QUOTE OR ADVICE PHONE CHRIS ON

07500 926558UNIT 2A, BRIDGE FARM INDUSTRIES

BOTLEY ROAD, CURBRIDGE SOUTHAMPTON, SO30 2HB

EMAIL: [email protected]

TEL: 01489 786273 or 07500 926558

Solent Garage Doors

THE PREMIER GARAGE DOOR SPECIALIST

GARAGE DOORSSUPPLIED & FITTED

l MAINTENANCE FREE DOORSl UP AND OVER DOORSl ROLLER DOORSl SIDE HUNG DOORSl SECTIONAL DOORSl AUTOMATION TO NEW AND

EXISTING DOORSl REPAIRS – SPRINGS CABLES –

LOCKS ETC. FOR ALL MAKES OF DOORS.

All Types of Quality Fencing Supplied & Erected, Including....

NO VAT – CALL NOW

• Discount Sheds made to Order

• Repairs• Gates • Decking• Patios & Paving

and Much, Much More

We will beat any written quotation

SHORELINE FENCING

Tel: 01489 578699 Mobile: 07850 332363

[email protected] www.shorelinefencing.co.uk

Dons Doorswww.donsgaragedoors.co.uk

• Manual • Automatic • Spares & repairs • Maintenance free • All leading brands supplied & fitted

023 8060 0027Fax: 023 8060 0070

Unit 9 Vicarage Farm Business Park, Winchester Road, Fair Oak, Eastleigh, SO50 7HD

Please ring

01489 482855

DJO ServiceS

- Home & Garden -

Decorating & General Repairs

- Clean, Tidy & Reliable -

- Free Estimates -

CYCLE

REPAIRS

Tel 01489 572583Mob 07771 783822- Between 8am and 8pm-

• Same day repairs available• Service £40• Collected & delivered to your door• Some 2nd hand bikes bought & sold

Nigel Tidman - Mobile ServiceExperience& Friendly Mechanic

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THE FRUIT & FLOWER BASKET

166 Hunts Pond Road Titchfield Common, Fareham, PO14 4PLYour local florist & greengrocer. Flowers for weddings, funerals

and corporate functions.

Phone Julia & Claire 01489 576764

Quality Floristry with Local, National and

International Delivery

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Team Greens

Private and Commercial

All Aspects of Hedge Work

Target Pruning / Trimming

Mowing and Brush Cutting

Garden Maintenance

Site Clearances

Planting / Re-planting

All Green Waste Disposed of

Steve Allen Fully Insured

Tel: 07983 62274701489 588533

Grounds Maintenance Services

[email protected]

12 yearS eStabliSheD

Tel: 01329 235993 or 07768 072627

[email protected]

beeWiSe anD call US

• Free Estimates • • Family Business •

• Block Paving • Tarmac • • Gravel • Concrete •

• Drainage • Brickwork • • Slab Work •

• Fencing • Decking •

Why not check us out online? Scan the QR code on your smart phone for a direct link to the Solent Life website!www.solentlife.co.uk

there’s an app for that...


Tel: 01329 235993 or 07768 072627

[email protected] www.bwdriveways.co.uk

beeWiSe anD call US

12 yearS eStabliSheD

• Free Estimates •• Family Business •

• Block Paving • • Tarmac •• Gravel •

• Concrete • • Drainage •

• Brickwork •• Slab Work • • Fencing •• Decking •

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KEVIN TAYLORProfessional Decorating Services

Tel: 01489 582655 Mob: 07771 970294

All types of decorating, paper-hanging a speciality,

no job too small.Public liability insurance held.

FREE ESTIMATESFor a professional service

with over 30 years experience call:

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PL

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01489 787647 07775 506891

Boiler Servicing, Central Heating, Dripping Taps, Landlord Safety Checks,

Blocked WCs, Bathroom Suites

All Plumbing Work Undertaken

COLIN SHARPE

PLUMBING & HEATING

Decorating Services

Est. 23 years

•Internal/External•Paperhanging•Insurance Work a Speciality

Call Derek on01489 581 269 07780 910 799

=

ESCAPESAll Aspects of Hard & Soft Landscaping

• Patios & Decking• Pergolas & Pathways • Fencing• Water Features

Jonathan Pearman: 07974 195874 William Pearman: 07793 116017 [email protected] FUNTLEY ROAD, FUNTLEY FAREHAM, HAMPSHIRE. PO17 SEE

Garden Maintenance & Landscaping

Dan Morgan

• Ponds & Water Features • • Border Maintenance •

• Grass Cutting • Decking • • Hedge Trimming• Pergolas •

Fencing • Patios • Fencing

Mobile: 07725 210869 Home: 01489 589516

[email protected]

109 Fleet End Road, Warsash Southampton, SO31 9JH

Business Directory


01489 583800


JJ PLASTERING

07715 054663 01489 [email protected]

20 Years Experience City & Guilds

lAll plastering work

undertaken including

skimming, rendering,

screeding & dry-

lining.

lAverage size ceiling

(12x12) skimmed to

cover artex £100

inc materials.

Call Jason on…

☎ 01489 557115M 07917 125706

YOUR DOG DESERVES IT!

We come to your home in our customised heated mobile grooming parlour

Warm water Hydro Bath • Shampooing Flea Treatment • Conditioning • Turbo Drying

Deodorizing • Clipping & Grooming ID Microchipping Recommended by vets

Hair De-Shedding

E [email protected]

Call Alf on

PE

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VIC

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GUTTERSCLEAREDusing the reach vacuum

Also:UPVC conservatory

& window cleaning. Gutter repairs

& replacement.

www.highvac.co.uk [email protected]

Call Mark023 80 4779 80 or

07762 807824

0800 955 088831 Bentley Green, Southampton

where reputation matters

Proud members of

NEW KITCHEN ?

www.re-nukitchens.co.uk

0800 590987 • 01329 220319 02392 990195

Phone now for a Freeno obligation Quotation

See samples in your own homeWe do Wardrobe doors too !

Save Mess, Disturbance & Cost

• New Quality Doors• Hundreds of Choices• Made to ANY SIZE• Worktops / Appliances• Extra Units (any size)• Sinks & Taps etc

Save up to 50% on New Kitchen costs

Just Change the Doors!!

LANDSCAPES & BUILDINGof Winchester

Fencing, Paving, Turfing, Patios, Drives, Walls, Treework

Pointing, Brickwork, Drains All aspects of Building & Landscaping

Tradesmen, 30 years exp.Free estimates

All areas. Guaranteed

01962 62070107732 015184

Complete Home & Garden Contractor


www.westendcarsfareham.co.uk

• Airport Transfers • Seaports

• Local & Long Distance • Friendly, Reliable Service

CALL 01329 842963

West End CarsFarehamTaxi Service

01489 571388 • 07960 [email protected]

& PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

COMPLETE ROOFING SERVICEALL ASPECTS COVERED

ROOFING WORKUPVC Fascia & Soffits • Velux Windows

Gutters • Loft Conversions Dorma’s etc • Insurance Work

MAINTENANCE WORKBlock Paving • Fencing

Garden Decking • Garden Walls Re-Pointing • General Property Repairs

FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES

UP

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01329 825045

Grab a Cab

Airports Seaports, Clubs

Local & Long Distance

Wheelchair and pushchair friendly

All aspects of plumbing & heating undertaken

W.R.A.S Approved 01489 691541

07711 812966 or 07977 807057

• OAP Discounts for boiler servicing

• Boiler changes/replacements• Reasonable rates• Power flushing • Local and reliable • Free estimates • Bathrooms

233959

PURPLEPLUMBING & HEATING LTD

[email protected]

Team GreensTree Services

All aspects of tree work » Crown Reduction

» Crown Lifts / Felling

» Target Pruning

» Dismantling

» Hedge Work

» Stump Grinding

» Emergency Tree

Work Undertaken

Steve Allen NPTCQualified

Fully Insured

Telephone: 07983 62274701489 588533

Call Paul on 01329 841416

or 07876 194823

REQUIREDBuilding Plots & Houses in

need of Renovation in Warsash and the surrounding area.

Strawberry Homes

A member of The County Wills GroupNot Written Your Will yet?Don’t put off the essential job any

longer.Now it could not be easier with a

confidential and professional Will Writing Service in the area.Instructions are taken in the comfort of your own home.

Your family deserves the protection a legally binding Will can provide NOW

also lasting power of attorney Don’t be tempted to put it off

For prompt personal attention,

Tel: 0845 6200016 or 02380 403781

Solent Wills

For All Your Plumbing & Heating Requirements, From a Dripping Tap

to Bathroom Installations & Power Flushing

Fully Insured – Free Quotations

Tel: Dave 01329 847056 Mob: 07852287476

Gas Safe Registered

Proctor Plumbing & Heating Services

Tel: 01489 583486 or Mob: 07813 087210

New Roofs & Repairs to:• Flat Roofs • Tiled Roofs •

• Slate Roofs • • Re-Pointing of Brickwork •

• Chimneys • • Valleys & Ridges •

• UPVC Fascias & Guttering

NEW SERVICES:l WINDOWS,

CONSERVATORIES, UPVC FASCIAS & SOFFITS CLEANED

l GUTTERS CLEARED

FLAT ROOFING SPECIALIST

All Aspects of Property Maintenance Over 20yrs

Experience. Fully Insured. Free Estimates.

10% OFF our new services with this advert

Why not check us out online?

Scan the QR code on

your smart phone for

a direct link to the

Solent Life website!

www.solentlife.co.uk

there’s an

app for that...

COVERING THE SOLENT AREAFROM £40 PER LOAD 24 HOUR

CALL OUT

RUBBISH CLEARANCE

ALL HOUSEHOLD, GARDEN, COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL

WASTE DISPOSED OF QUICKLY & PROFESSIONALLY

INCLUDING ASBESTOS & METAL

9 TIMES OUT OF 10 WE ARECHEAPER THAN HIRING A SKIP

AND WE DO ALL THE WORK!

CALL JIM ON 07984 501822www.rubbishclearanceandwasteremoval.co.uk

Registration Number:CB/pn5511ul

EnvironmentAgency



01489 583800

from as little as

£40 per month.


Come and see Santa at Romsey World of Water Sunday 25th November from 11amIn support of Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Sponsored by Scotthall Hampshire

www.scotthallhampshirebmw.co.uk www.scotthallhampshiremini.co.uk

Also enter a free prize draw to win a BMW or MINI for a weekend.

3… • JULY 2011 • solentlife.co.uk

JOIN

Winter WarmerMembership Offer4 Months Full Membership £120** Inclusive of joining fee, offer available in November & December 2012.New members ONLY.

In association withLittle Abshot Road, Titchfield Common, Fareham, Hampshire PO14 4LN

t: 01489 573936e: [email protected]

Abshot Advert Full Page Oct12_Layout 1 25/10/2012 12:28 Page 1

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Roy

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Mar

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www.royal-clarence-marina.co.ukProud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

Our visionfor your future

Think waterfront living. Think Berkeley.

Sales Suite open daily 10am – 5.30pm

Royal Clarence Marina, Portsmouth Harbour, Gosport PO12 1AX

This vibrant development combines heritage architecture, new buildings, a wine bar and restaurant, the colourful working marina and harbourside walks. Ferry connections to Portsmouth take minutes and give you easy access to all the city’s attractions, which include the Historic Dockyard, museums and shops.

2 bedroom apartments from £165,000

For information call 023 9252 9054

solentlife wessex eddition november 2012

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