NEWS & EVENTS FOR DECEMBER
Find out what's going on in the Itchen Valley
OUR REGULAR MONTHLY FEATURE
All I want for Christmas is... by Lucia Foster-Found
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Tomato soup with ricotta and oak-smoked tomato balsamic
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
Enjoy your festive shopping in Alresford
STYLE ˙ INTERIORS ˙ HEALTH & BEAUTY ˙ INTERVIEWS ˙ FOOD & DRINK ˙ ENTERTAINMENT ˙ EVENTS
Director
Steve
Advertising
Mandy
Alresford Rotary Christmas Tree Sale
Saturday 6 December
From 8am
Broad Street, Alresford
From 8am until all are sold.
Winter Equinox Spiritual Fayre - Yuletide Blessings
Saturday 6 December
From 11am to 4pm
Ramalley Scout Hall, Ramalley Lane, Chandlers Ford, SO53 1JG
Readers, healers and therapists at affordable rates. Stall holders with unique products, homemade treats and refreshments. Free Entry. Facebook.com/Touchofspookie
ACTS children and Sunshine Singers present "Tinsel and Teatowels"
Fri 5 to Sat 6 December
From 6pm
St Johns Church, East Street, Alresford, SO24 9AG
Alresford Community Theatre Society - Written by Out of The Ark. A funny musical take on a school Nativity. Tickets available from ticketsource.co.uk/alresfordcommunity-theatre-society - Adults £5 Over 5yrs £3 under 5s free. Bar and cakes available before and after the show. Come and join us for festive fun!
Christmas Sunday Opening in Alresford
Sunday 7 December
Shop open varying times
Broad Street and West Street, Alresford
The shops of Alresford are opening on Sunday 7 December. A great opportunity to get your Unique Christmas Shopping at Alresford's independent retailers. D.Barker & Son, Billy Goat, Delilah, 40 West Street, Ragamuffin, Moda Rosa, Schuberts, Alresford Linen, The Toy
Shop, Laurence Oxley, House of Gallet, Wildbunch, Interior Style and Alresford Beauty.
The Old Alresford Dramatic Society Present Pinocchio
Mon 8 to Sat 13 December
Mon-Fri from 7.30pm (Sat 1.30pm & 5.30pm)
The Christy Hall, Old Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9DH
Written by Tom Whalley. He nose, but wood you believe it! Join us for a fantastical family panto bursting with magic, mischief and mayhem. Please note there will NOT be a show on Wednesday 10 December. But tickets from ticketsource.co.uk/ toads or email:boxoffice@oa-toads. org.uk.
Arrival of Father Christmas
Wednesday 10 December
From 5pm
Broad Street, Alresford
Late Night Shopping and Christmas Market. Market opens at 5pm. Local School Choirs and Festive Band Performances from 6pm. Father Christmas arrives around 7pm. Grotto open until 8.30pm. Organised by the Alresford Pigs and the Alresford Children's Christmas Tree Fund in conjunction with Alresford Chamber of Commerce, New Alresford Town Trust.
The Gospel Collective present a Winter Gospel Concert
Thursday 11 December
From 7.30pm
St Johns Church, East Street, Alresford, SO24 9AG
The concert will be followed by refreshments. To book tickets visit: events.gospelcollective.co.uk
A Christmas Carol Performed by West Meon Theatre
Wed 10 to Thur 11 December
Contact the organiser
The Flowerpots, Brandy Mount, Cheriton, SO24 0QQ
This classic tale, performed by six actors taking on all roles, combines live music with creative story telling to bring to life the time-honoured tale of Scrooge and what it means to embrace the true spirit of Christmas. Book tickets through our website at: https://www.westmeontheatre.co.uk/ Tickets £30 to include a 2 course supper and show. There will be a matinee at West Meon Village Hall on Sunday 14 December. £15 to include Christmas refreshments. events@theflowerpots.co.uk
St Peter’s Christmas Tree Festival
Fri 12 to Sun 14 December
See copy below
St Peters Church, Church Street, Ropley, SO24 0DS
Preview Evening: Friday 12 December 6.30- 8.00pm. Celebrate the lighting of the trees with BBC’s Sally Taylor Tickets are £20 and include fizz and canapés. Buy tickets online at: www.stpetersropleyvenue.org.uk
Saturday 13 December 10am - 5pm (Mini Crochets 9.30 - 10am). Sunday 14 December 12.30 - 5pm. St Peter’s will be transformed by a display of trees sponsored and decorated by the community. Visitors will be welcomed to view the display and enjoy Christmas activities and St Peter’s wonderful refreshments! Tickets £5 per person (under 10s free) on the door.
Alresford Community Choir present their 2025 Christmas concert - Deck The Halls!
Saturday 13 December
From 7.30pm
St Johns Church, East Street, Alresford, SO24 9AG
Come and enjoy Alresford Community Choir's much loved annual Christmas Concert, featuring
many of your festive favourites. At St John the Baptist Church, Alresford. Tickets cost £15 and £12 and will be available online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/alresfordcommunity-choir from Monday 10 November.
St John’s Tree of Remembrance
Until Saturday 20 December
Church Opening Hours
St Johns Church, East Street, Alresford, SO24 9AG
You are warmly invited to come and place a star on this tree in memory of someone who will be in your thoughts this Christmas time. There will be stars available in church, next to the tree, and you simply need to write the name of the person you are remembering on one of them. The tree will be in place from Friday 28 November until the new year. St John’s is open daily until dusk. You are also very welcome to join us for a short service of Prayers around the Tree of Remembrance at 12:00 on Saturday 20 December.
Screening of new British documentary System Update - Rebooting Our Future
Thursday 15 January
From 6.30pm
Perins School, Pound HiIl, Alresford, SO24 9BS
In collaboration with Perins School, New Leaf Alresford are hosting a screening of the film ‘System Update – Rebooting Our Future’. Join them to watch a bold new feature length documentary about climate change, exploring how we can transform our politics, economics and society to meet the climate crisis. The film will be followed by a question and answer session with our panel, who will offer their perspectives on the challenges we face, as well as potential solutions. The panel will include the film’s director Paul Maple, local MP Danny Chambers, and Denise Baden, Professor of Sustainable Practice at the University of Southampton. Tickets are just £5 for adults and FREE for under 18s. Please reserve your place here: https:// www.tickettailor.com/events/ newleafalresford/1945543
Bespoke sizing - Media walls, boot rooms, custom offices, installed by ex-shipwright joiners with exceptional attention to detail
Happy Kitchens have a unique approach when it comes to kitchens and custom spaces in the home. We use excellent quality materials which are fitted by exshipwright joiners, who used to fit the woodwork on Super Yachts. That in itself is unique in our industry but then add in the fact that we are bespoke, but don’t charge the inflated prices that your highend high street showrooms do, gives us the recipe for your perfect home solution. This is why we are one of the highest rated home improvement companies on HOUZZ, beating all the top names you might recognise when walking down your high street.
We have never had less than a 5 star
review and have won the HOUZZ best of service award every year since it has been running. The staff at HOUZZ reference us to other companies as to how customer service should be done. Many of our customers have used us 2 or 3 times due to moving house or tackling other projects in their existing houses.
We do not have a template for design and take a fresh approach with every customer. It is important to take all the best ideas a customer has, then bring in the experience we have to offer, and often our ideas will be completely different to any other companies as we are innovative and bespoke. We often hear that customers have had designs and quotes that all look the same, are boring and
• Change as much or as little as you'd like
• Free no obligation quotation
• Free design service for new projects
unexciting, yet expensive. This is because most high street ‘kitchen designers’ are just salespeople with no idea on how a kitchen works.
So whether you need an amazing Kitchen, Utility, Bedroom, Coffee Bar with custom pod storage, Office, Media Wall or Living Room storage we can help. The design visits are free of charge, and we can quote on the same day. Also Ben loves design, so often at no extra charge, he will help you choose paint colours,
One of the top reviewed companies on Houzz, offering free home design visits
light fittings, Bar stools, artwork and can even recommend great pots and pans.
Our customers will often use us again, and recommend us to Family and Friends. The quote from the review above was from a customer who has chosen us twice, and their parents also have a
Happy Kitchens are quite unique as we are able to offer top quality products, available in any size, fitted by the best professionals in the business. Change your kitchen and bedroom with a makeover or design and install a new kitchen and bedroom, whichever suits your needs or price range.
• Change as much or as little as you'd like
• Free no obligation quotation
• Free design service for new projects
Happy Kitchen, and two of the parents' friends.
The biggest compliment we get from our customers is always around our attention to detail and often bringing something completely different to the table. If you are still unsure after reading this, go and read some of our reviews on our Happy Kitchens Houzz profile, and do a search of kitchen companies on there by review rating, we are always close to the top of the list.
Out-of-the-box thinking, bespoke design features, and friendly staff with excellent attention to detail are just a few of the reasons you should call us today. If that isn’t enough please do remember that the design visit is free of charge, so you have nothing to lose.
8 year winner of the Best of Houzz award and one of the highest reviewed kitchen companies on Houzz in the UK
From vibrant town centre living to charming village escapes –there’s something for everyone
If you’re dreaming of a new home, Hellards Estate Agency is delighted to present a wonderful selection of properties newly available across Alresford and the surrounding Hampshire villages. Whether you’re drawn to the buzz of town centre living, or the peaceful charm of countryside life, our latest listings promise something to suit every lifestyle.
Town Centre Living
For those who love being at the heart of things, Alresford’s elegant Georgian streets and independent shops provide the perfect backdrop. From beautifully refurbished period apartments to modern family homes just moments from cafés and boutiques, our town centre properties offer convenience and character in equal measure. Imagine stepping out your front door for a morning coffee or weekend stroll along the River Arle — town living has never been more appealing.
Village Charm and Country Comfort
Prefer a little more peace and space? Our nearby village properties offer everything from thatched cottages with rose-filled gardens to
We are looking for someone who is interested in helping with the day-to-day administration and upkeep of our small parish church. The Church Clerk would work in close coordination with members of Tichborne PCC, Parochial Church Council. The church has a limited number of services per year.
The part time position is not expected to involve on average more than 2-3 hours per week. It could be undertaken either voluntarily or for a modest, fixed sum per annum. It may suit someone who has an interest in playing a key role in the community. No prior experience of church administration is necessary.
If you would like to know more about the role please call or email:
Sarah McWhirter, tel: 078111 81634, email: sarah.mcwhirter@btinternet.com Or Michele Hickman, tel : 07792 073615 Email: michelehickman@gmail.com
stylish barn conversions and contemporary homes with countryside views. Locations such as Cheriton, Ropley, and Old Alresford offer a welcoming community spirit, excellent local schools, and easy access to Winchester and beyond — perfect for families, commuters, and anyone seeking a slower pace of life.
Expert Guidance, Personal Service
At Hellards, we pride ourselves on matching people with homes they truly love. Our friendly, knowledgeable team has deep local roots and a passion for helping buyers and sellers alike make confident, well-informed decisions. Whether you’re taking your first step onto the property ladder, upsizing for a growing family, or downsizing to something more manageable, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
With such an exciting variety of homes now on the market, there’s never been a better time to explore what Hellards has to offer. Visit our Alresford office, browse the latest listings online, or get in touch to arrange a personal viewing — your dream home could be closer than you think.
11 Broad Street Alresford Hampshire SO24 9AR www.hellards.co.uk
In collaboration with Perins School, New Leaf Alresford are hosting a screening of the film ‘System Update – Rebooting Our Future’ on Thursday 15 January. Join them to watch a bold new feature length documentary about climate change, exploring how we can transform our politics, economics and society to meet the climate crisis.
In an era of accelerating climate change and cascading impacts, System Update offers a vital look at how transformative shifts in politics, economics, and society, can protect people from climate catastrophe. This film calls for a reboot of outdated systems that have failed to respond to the climate crisis.
World-leading experts and change-makers explain why these systemic changes are critical, and how they can be achieved. The film is more than an informative documentary; it is a rallying cry for a better future - one in which the majority of people are united in calling for the changes needed to avert disaster.
“We are on course for utterly catastrophic climate disaster within the lifetimes of younger generations,” warns Professor Jason Hickel, who argues for a radical departure from current economic thinking in the film. This is contrasted with political leaders betting on untested technologies to reverse carbon emissions at some point in the future. System Update presents the reality: the time for action is now.
The film will be followed by a question and answer session with our panel, who will offer their perspectives on the challenges we face, as well as potential solutions. The panel will include the film’s director Paul Maple, local MP Danny Chambers, and Denise Baden, Professor of Sustainable Practice at the University of Southampton.
The film will be shown using the new state of the art projection equipment in the Perins’ Main Hall. Doors open at 6.30pm, the screening will start at 7pm, and the panel discussion will continue until 9pm.
Tickets are just £5 for adults and FREE for under 18s. Please reserve your place here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/ newleafalresford/1945543
Please note: This film is a documentary and suitable for older children, teenagers and adults.
https://newleafalresford.org/ https://www.facebook.com/newleafalresford http://www.instagram.com/newleafalresford https://www.stagecoachbus.com/timetables https://www.perins.net/
"...born this Day, a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord"
Luke's Gospel, 2:11
Proclaiming the Lord Jesus Christ, who suffered, died and rose from the dead and lives forevermore, and is coming again.
PROCLAIMING JESUS
New Farm Road, Alresford, Hampshire Sunday Services 10.30am
Wednesdays 7.30pm (prayer and bible study on zoom) Tel: 07989 257707 (text or call) www.newfarmchapel.org.uk
Sunday Services, each Sunday at 10.30am Sunday 21st December 10.30am and 5.30pm Informal Carol Service (refreshments ) Thursday 25th December 10.30am short service
PROCLAIMING JESUS
New Farm Road, Alresford, Hampshire
Tel: 07989 257707 (text or call) www.newfarmchapel.org.uk
St. John the Baptist New Alresford (Anglican)
Sunday 7 December
16.00 Christingle
Sunday 21 December
18.00 Carol Service
Christmas Eve
16.00 Crib Service
23.30 Frist Communion of Christmas
Christmas Day
09.30 Christmas Family Communion
St. Mary's Old Alresford (Anglican)
Sunday 21 December
17.00 Carol Service
Christmas Day 10.00 Christmas Family Communion
St. Gregory's New Alresford (Roman Catholic)
Christmas Eve 20.00 Vigil Mass
Christmas Day 11.00 Mass
All Saints Bighton (Anglican)
Sunday 14 December 16.00 Carol Service
Christmas Eve 23.30 First Communion of Christmas
Alresford Methodist Church (Methodist)
Sunday 14 December 15.30 Sing your favourite Carols with tea and cake provided Christmas Day 09.30 Christmas Day service led by Jon Hughes
St. Peter's Ovington (Anglican)
Sunday 14 December 16.00 Carol Service
Christmas Day 09.30 Christmas Parish Communion
Christmas Trees 2025
As we approach another festive period, the combined teams from The Alresford Chamber & The Alresford Pigs are again busy gearing up to light up our wonderful town. Bulbs and strings have been taken out of storage, checked and tested and replacements ordered, ready for another year, while preparations are also under way to begin taking orders. And so, to the ‘big day’. Trees will be going up on Saturday 29 November (weather permitting), all undertaken again by a team of dedicated volunteers, decked out in their best hi-visibility jackets and fetching hard hats! Please do say hello if you happen to be passing.
Finally, a huge thank you to all those involved in continuing to make this project the success that it is. We wish you all a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Alresford Ghost Hunt 2025
Congratulations to The Ghost Hunt Winners, who are pupils of Sun Hill & Four Marks Schools. We had 2 first prize £20 gift vouchers this year donated by The Toy Shop & Billy Goat Children's Shoe shop. Feedback from businesses and residents has been fantastic, and this much-loved event was another popular year with 100s who took part from many other areas. Our thanks go out to New Alresford Town Council for their continued support of this project.
Arrival of Father Christmas & Late-Night Shopping
Come and enjoy a festive evening with this year’s arrival of Father Christmas & Late-Night Shopping on Wednesday 10 December. All the Alresford Community Groups have been working together to bring a spectacular event, with many shops staying open, a festive evening will be had by all!
Any businesses or individuals wishing to participate, sponsor or generally assist with any of our projects please do email us.
Together we are stronger Keep track of our events, follow us on Facebook @AlresfordChamberofCommerce / AlresfordCofC / info@ alresfordchamber.co.uk /www.alresfordchamber.co.uk
It’s all too easy to become disillusioned with politics when it seems like nothing ever gets done. But after big wins earlier in the year with the passing of my Animal Welfare Bill and successful local campaigns to save recycling centres and care facilities from closure by Hampshire County Council, we've continued to secure change.
It was fantastic to win important policy changes this year. For too long, our country has been in a mental health crisis, and I’ve been determined to make a difference. Serving on the committee for the Mental Health Bill, I worked with my colleagues to put forward amendments to ensure the Bill was the best it could be. It is vital that we support carers, and close blind spots in our legislation that too often let down people caring for loved ones with serious mental illness. Thanks to our amendments, for the first time ever, young carers supporting parents with a severe mental illness will get the help they desperately need.
I’ve been outraged at the lack of care shown towards our chalk streams by Southern Water, but the campaigning pressure we’ve been putting on the industry and government has started to pay off. It was announced that Ofwat will be replaced and there will be new powers to fine water firms committing environmental offences. We must now ensure that whatever replaces Ofwat is fit for purpose and actually holds the companies to account. Ultimately we need to replace the water companies themselves with organisations that serve the public and our environment, not just their shareholders.
While our campaigning pressure has yielded success in some areas, we still need to keep fighting in others. Growing up on a farm, I know all too well the challenges farmers are under. I recently spoke with farmers from across the Meon Valley who have told me about the pressures they're facing from inflation and the aftermath of the record dry summer we've just come through.
Adding to the pressure is the increasing risk from rural crime which is becoming ever more sophisticated. I visited Shavards Farm alongside Hampshire Police to learn more about the challenge and what we can do to tackle it going forward. Farmers are the backbone of our rural communities, and have been taken for granted for too long, so it’s more important than ever that we back British farms.
If there is anything I can help you with, please get in touch at danny. chambers.mp@parliament.uk
Danny Chambers MP
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• 500G ISLE OF WIGHT TOMATOES
• 1 RED PEPPER, CHOPPED
• 1 TBSP RAPESEED OIL
• 1 TBSP ISLE OF WIGHT TOMATOES OAK-SMOKED TOMATO BALSAMIC
• 2 CLOVES GARLIC, CHOPPED
• 1 ONION, CHOPPED
• 1 CARROT, CHOPPED
• 500ML VEGETABLE STOCK CUBE
• 2 TBSP PARSLEY, CHOPPED, PLUS LEAVES TO SERVE
• 100G RICOTTA
• PINCH OF SALT & PEPPER
Preheat the oven to 200C. Toss the tomatoes and pepper with half the oil in a roasting tin. Roast for 20 minutes, then drizzle over the balsamic vinegar and cook for a further 10 minutes.
Heat the rest of the oil in a large pan and fry the garlic, onion and carrot over a low heat for 5 minutes. Add the stock, bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the carrot is tender.
Add the tomatoes and peppers to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes, season, then blend using a handheld blender. In a bowl, stir the parsley into the ricotta then whisk until light and fluffy.
To serve, divide the soup into bowls and top each bowl with a spoonful of the ricotta mixture.
Maid Marian Ad
The annual tradition of the Broad Street Fair took place on Thursday 16 October. After several centuries of Sheep Fairs in Broad Street, the Victorians moved the sheep down the road to the Long Barn field, and began a Pleasure Fair that has lasted 150+ years. The Town Trust has worked with 4 generations of the Wall - Searle family for over 100 of those years to bring the Funfair to town. Somehow, in just 24 hours, the whole of Broad Street is emptied of cars and filled with rides, squeezed between the trees and only metres from the historic buildings. This year they included Dodgems, Waltzers, a Haunted House, an inflatable slide, and several nausea-inducing rides that only teenagers could surely enjoy, as well as gentle rides for smaller children and opportunities to hook ducks, shoot targets, and win cuddly toys. They are open for just 7 hours from 3pm to 10pm on the Thursday evening - and every child and teenager for miles around (and quite a few folk who aren't teenagers but wish they were) converges on Broad Street for the best night of their year. The smell of burgers and candy floss and the happy screams of the riders fill the air. Parents fill the local pubs, keeping nearby but out of sight. And then, by 7am on Friday, it's all gone. Broad Street is silent and tidy, no sign that the Fair ever happened. Maybe we imagined it? If so, we will imagine it all again, same time next year, for one day only.
One less thing to think about.
Maid Marian Ad 90 x 135 31/1/10 12:38 Page 1
• Regular cleaning and end
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• One off spring cleans
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Despite
all that follows, we wish you a Peaceful Christmas and Happy 2026
At this time of year, we especially appreciate our trees that dress the landscape. The loss of three mature beech trees in Alresford caused some distress. You can see the trees that are protected on Protected Trees Map on the Winchester City Council website: https://www.winchester.gov. uk/planning/trees/view-tpos-map/
This includes blanket tree protection orders, individuals, and those that are in a conservation zone. If you want to ensure that trees important to you are protected you do need to apply, the process can be found at Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) - Winchester City Council. Visit: https://www.winchester.gov.uk/planning/ trees/tree-preservation-orders-tpos
At the time in 2019 that Sun Hill obtained planning approval, one of the conditions was that the developer should install a sewage pumping station that would lift the foul water to the existing sewage treatment plant in Appledown Lane. This is the accepted practice almost everywhere, with all domestic drainage relying on gravity to flow to a low point and then being pumped to a plant.
The problems of such a system were amply demonstrated when the sewage pumping plant at the bottom of the Dean collapsed. This resulted in a very unpleasant experience for many residents in the Dean whose houses were flooded with raw sewage in 2000. All the wastewater from north of the high points of Sun Hill/Oak Hill, which are at about 102m, runs down to the Dean at an altitude of 61m, one of the lowest points in the town.
There have been subsequent failures of the Dean pumping station and unpleasant floods. The resulting damage is still subject to dispute. The Dean pumping station pushes the water back up hill from where it flows down to a pumping station by the Cricketers. From there
it is pumped to the station in Appledown Lane, at a height of about 102 m. All in all, quite a complicated system in which many components have to work very precisely and reliably, round the clock and for year after year. We get excited about these things even when they don’t go wrong! Failure can have dire consequences for people and the environment.
Since 2019 the responsibility for setting up the infrastructure and for its cost is carried by the statutory provider, in this case Southern Water. Southern Water have now decided that the proposed new pumping station serving for the Sun Hill (AKA Alresford Meadows) development is not required. The detail, such as it is, may be seen on the planning portal, reference 25/00391/NMA.
The agreement from Southern Water contains the less than reassuring phrase ‘Important note: This Section 106 approval does not confirm that public sewer network capacity is available at your location for the proposed development’. The brand of ‘Southern Water’ does not in the minds of many carry the same cachet of corporate responsibility and reliability as say does ‘Rolls Royce’ on an aircraft engine. Hence your councillors are concerned that skimping on infrastructure may create problems for the future.
Danny Chambers MP has a list of matters to be discussed with Southern Water, and the pumping station is on his list!
It is now unlikely that this will open before 2026. A short length of the new loop by the school cannot be completed until one of the electricity support poles is moved. The support pole cannot be moved until Scottish Southern Electricity have sorted out some legal problems.
Until that issue is resolved Hampshire County Council have decided that we should not put extra traffic on Sun Lane that would occur should the A31 access opened,
This is not just a convenient new route for vehicles, but important as it discharges a
planning condition which allows more housing to be completed. We feel swift progress on building new houses is important to the town, as some twenty affordable homes might be ready for new residents in the not too distant future. It is worth noting that in the latest CAB Housing “there are 88 families on the WCC housing list who have put down Alresford and the Itchen Valley as their first preference”.
The recent consultation event was well attended. A screening application can be seen on the planning website reference 25/02086/ SCREEN
Russell Gordon-Smith T: 01962 733219 rgordon-smith@winchester.gov.uk
Margot Power T: 01962 734167 mpower@winchester.gov.uk
Clare Pinniger
Tel: 077900 32349 cpinniger@winchester.gov.uk
Himself revolved slowly in front of the full-length mirror, sucking in his tummy and tugging at the edges of his jacket, trying to make them meet. ‘Last Christmas’ was playing on the radio and it occurred to her how apt that was; last Christmas his dinner suit had fitted.
“Fast Christmas,” he warbled along with George. “Because fasting is the only way it’s going to fit for your Christmas do. It must have shrunk in the wash,” he muttered as the spaniels leaned affectionately against his trousers, lovingly leaving a thousand white hairs.
“Must have.” She winked at the dogs. “I promise I won’t ever wash it again,” she reassured him. In fact, she never had; it was dry clean only. It would probably shrink some more by the evening of the Christmas do, what with the annual onslaught of puff, shortcrust and filo.
“Fret not, the dress code is ‘elegant, smart casual’, so dinner suit not required.”
“Thank goodness,” Himself sighed, relaxed and flung off the jacket onto the chair. Even the dogs seemed relieved as they curled up on it, depositing another thousand hairs.
Himself looked down at them and sang, “It’s the season, love and understanding, Hairy Christmas, everyone,” shaking his head with a wry smile. “Anyway, you ‘do’ elegant and I’ll ‘do’ smart casual,” he suggested. “Although, some people’s idea of smart casual... Remember that guy throwing shapes on the dancefloor in the fancy trainers at your Christmas do last year?”
She did remember – and because no one ever remembered what you wore unless it was trainers, she intended to wear the dress she’d worn last year. With dress code resolved, they returned to decorating the tree. This year, in a break from tradition, he’d asked to help. She had wondered if she would have to rearrange the baubles in the dead of night. Just like she did when the children were young – happy days.
As he reached up to top it off with the fairy, he burst into song, “So here it is, ‘Fairy’ Christmas, everybody’s having ‘pun’!” and laughed like a drain.
“Please don’t tell me that’s the only reason you helped..” she shook her head and giggled. Stepping back, she ran a critical eye over the finished article.
“It’s no garden centre spectacular, but a well-deserved come-dine-with-me. And with that in mind, dinner’s ready. I’m thinking of calling it ‘Fairytale of New Pork’. Belly pork stuffed with cheap tasty faggots,” she said.
“Kirsty and Shane, both dead,” Himself said sadly. His ensuing homage excited the dogs, who danced around his legs shedding more hair, but was missing most of the lyrics. Except the rude ones.
The gifts were already wrapped and ready to be placed beneath the tree. The dogs would give them the annual inspection and find, yet again, they contained no raw meat at all. Disappointing. She’d bought all the presents back in October during a flurry of enthusiasm, upon her return from a bottomless brunch. Things had been a bit hazy, but she’d hoovered up notto-be-missed offers from her Instagram feed. And even once the hangover had subsided, some of the gifts still seemed alright. Sort of.
The December page on the calendar (Himself was old school) looked expensive. Alongside the usual vet appointments, pet insurance renewals and worming reminders, there were drinks parties, Christmas fairs, the work Christmas do and at least three Christmas lunches. In between, she was shoe-horning in the makings of Christmas. Making pastry (lots of it), making lemon curd (for the tarts), making wreaths (more than one) and making sausage rolls and mince pies (for everyone apparently). It made her tired just thinking about it. And especially tired at the thought of all those turkey dinners.
“I’ve made an executive decision,” she announced. The dogs paid attention –maybe she was going to gift wrap some steaks after all.
“I know that I usually do all these things for Christmas. But this year I don’t want to. I want to spend December without the lists in my head and just enjoy the moments.”
Himself gave her a hug. “It’s about time.”
“And,” she drew back her head and looked at him, “no turkey on the day.”
“So glad,” he sighed. “Whatever you want to cook is alright by me. But,” he smiled, before breaking into a tuneful, “make my wish come truuue, all I want for Christmas is… stew.”
© LUCIA FOSTER-FOUND 2025 WWW.LUCIAFOSTERFOUND.COM | e @LUCIAFOSTERFOUND
FROM THIS TO THIS IN ONE DAY
FROM THIS TO THIS IN ONE DAY
FROM THIS TO THIS IN ONE DAY
Skandoor has led the way in manufacturing and installing garage doors in Hampshire and the south for many years. Our speciality is high-quality garage and front doors, on-time delivery and full ownership from start to finish.
A well respected long established family run business based in Bishop's Waltham
ELECTRIC GARAGE DOORS
AUTOMATIC INSULATED GARAGE DOORS & FRONT DOORS
The arrival of Father Christmas and Late Night Shopping in
Help keep the tradition alive in Alresford on Wednesday 10 December and go late night shopping whilst enjoying the Christmas Festivities and the arrival of Father Christmas!
Welcome to our special festive feature of 'On your high street'
For you to keep to hand when making Christmas lists and perusing our local shops. This month's edition is packed full of festive treats and gift ideas!
Enticing and eclectic items now available on your high street this Christmas Stay local and support your diverse retailers!
D.Barker & Son
Sterling Silver necklace by Ti Sento Milano - £279
Hand made Sterling Silver bangles with gold kisses - £470 40A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU | www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
Billy Goat Skechers Ladies water repellent chocolate brown boots £80 (lots of other colours & styles available) 43 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 733926 | www.billygoatshoes.co.uk
Pop in to see our huge range of Christmas Decorations in store
Red Berry Bush Trees from £12, Shelf Sitting Angels £5, Brushed Silver Highland Stag £20 29 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AB Tel: 01962 736311 | www.interiorstyle.biz
Delilah Boutique
Fico D'India - our favourite scent from Ortigia. Pop in to discover our range of gift ideas 34 West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AU Tel: 01962 738470 | www.delilahboutique.co.uk
Enticing and eclectic items now available on your high street this Christmas Stay local and support your diverse retailers!
Beauty
Aroma Home soothing lavender scent Hotties in a range of animal designs from £13.95
24A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT
Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk
Alresford Beauty
PoM Organic Christmas Socks - £7.99
In a range of 4 festive designs
24A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT
Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk
Beauty
and Ear Studs - £19.95
24A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT
Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk
24A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT
Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk
Enticing and eclectic items now available on your high street this Christmas Stay local and support your diverse retailers!
A Selection of Beautiful Cotton Nightware
Dusky Pink Tropical Pyjamas from PoM Shown - £49.99
24A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT
Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk
PoM Make-up Pouch - £14.95, Jewellery Boxes - £14.95, Glasses Cases - £12.95
Many other designs available in store
24A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT
Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk
Handcreams and Soap in three Christmas Fragrances from The English Soap Company - Hand Cream - £8.75, Soaps - £6 24A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT
Alresford Beauty
David Jones handbags in a range of different designs and colours from £39.99
24A West Street, Alresford, SO24 9AT
Tel: 01962 735553 | www.alresfordbeauty.co.uk
D. Barker & Son Ltd
D. Barker & Son Ltd
40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
D. Barker & Son Ltd
D. Barker & Son Ltd
D. Barker & Son Ltd
D. Barker & Son Ltd
40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
40a West Street, Alresford, Hants Tel: 01962 732200 www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
Alresford Rotary’s annual sale of locally sourced Christmas Trees is from 8am on Saturday 6 December outside the Horse & Groom in Broad Street. Competitively priced, buying a quality tree from Rotary enables Rotary to make a difference, both locally and internationally.
For the tremendous support you have once again this year given Alresford Rotary in its community and fundraising events, most recently by contributing to the Wessex Rotary Christmas Shoebox Scheme and by attending the Torchlight Procession, Bonfire and Firework Evening on 7 November.
This year local schools (West Meon, Cheriton, Itchen Abbas, Sun Hill (Infants and Juniors) and St Peter’s (Winchester)) and local churches and other organisations and individuals including the Women’s Institute and the Mothers Union enabled Alresford Rotary to deliver 307 shoeboxes of Christmas gifts to the District depot in Boscombe on 1 November. Those boxes and 18,838 others left Boscombe on 12 November for Moldova, Montenegro, Romania and (for onward transmission to Ukraine) Poland. On arrival local Rotarians will supervise the distribution of the boxes to disadvantaged and displaced children (15 and under), many of whom will never have previously in their lives received any gift!
Despite a discouraging weather forecast the mid Hampshire community turned out in force for New Alresford’s bonfire night. The evening proved to be drier than forecast and the torchlight procession led by Hampshire Fire & Rescue (carrying the Guy created by The Swan) stretched along the entire length of West Street and Pound Hill to the entrance of Arlebury Park. Following the lighting of the bonfire and the burning of the Guy, the crowd enjoyed a magnificent firework display managed by Pains Fireworks. As well as being for many a highlight of New Alresford’s community life the annual firework event is Alresford Rotary’s major fundraising event of the year. Alresford Rotary is grateful to everyone who contributes to its success.
Happy Christmas!
Alresford Rotary wishes all its mid Hampshire supporters and friends a very happy Christmas. If you enjoy making friends, having fun and helping others, locally and internationally – regularly or occasionally, old or young, male or female – please let us know!
James Pinniger - Phone: 07973 747305
Email: rotaryalresford@gmail.com Website: alresford-rotary.org
Working alongside the Better Planning Coalition,
secure key safeguards for nature and the countryside as the Planning and Infrastructure Bill progresses through the
Peers have now backed a series of important amendments that reflect many of CPRE’s long-standing priorities for a fairer, more sustainable planning system. These include:
• Ensuring the government cannot ignore Parliament or select committees when changing National Policy Statements for major infrastructure projects.
• Giving Parliament a say over new regulations that decide which planning decisions are made by council officers and which go to councillors on planning committees – a crucial step for keeping decision-making transparent and open to communities.
• Strengthening protections for chalk streams in new sub-regional spatial development strategies.
• Making sure new spatial development strategies prioritise brownfield first, encourage urban densification, and reduce travel distances.
• Limiting new environmental delivery plans to four areas — nutrient neutrality, water quality, water resources and air quality — where evidence shows the plans could work without threatening important habitats or species.
The Bill will have its Third Reading in the House of Lords on 10 November, followed shortly by Commons consideration of the Lords’ amendments. CPRE will be calling on MPs to keep these vital improvements in the final legislation.
Whatever the outcome, CPRE will continue to champion the countryside and push for planning reforms that deliver genuine environmental benefits: protecting and enhancing the places people and wildlife call home.
For more information on the work of CPRE and News visit: www.cpre.org.uk
Chilcomb Brut
Chilcomb Brut
“ the favourite at our Spring Wine Festival ”
£35.99 each
“ the favourite at our Spring Wine Festival ” £35.99 each
Louis Pommery Brut
Louis Pommery Brut
“ grown just on the edge of Alresford, a cracking refreshing local fizz “
“ grown just on the edge of Alresford, a cracking refreshing local fizz “ £34.99 each
£34.99 each
‘BEST WHITE ENGLISH SPARKLING’ AT THE WINE GB WESSEX AWARDS
‘BEST WHITE ENGLISH SPARKLING’ AT THE WINE GB WESSEX AWARDS
Chilcomb Brut Rosé £35.99 each
Chilcomb Brut Rosé £35.99 each
“ wild strawberry fruits, pure elegance ”
“ wild strawberry fruits, pure elegance ”
Louis Pommery Rosé £39.99 each
Louis Pommery Rosé £39.99 each
“ a touch of ripe red fruit, floral and fresh ”
“ a touch of ripe red fruit, floral and fresh ”
Gavi DOCG
Gavi DOCG
Casali Del Barone
Casali Del Barone
“ uerly fresh and refined with a racy floral fruit palate, distinct mineral accents” Now 12.5% OFF at £13.99 each
“ uerly fresh and refined with a racy floral fruit palate, distinct mineral accents” Now 12.5% OFF at £13.99 each
De Wetshof Lesca Chardonnay
De Wetshof Lesca Chardonnay
“ finer than most white Burgundy, A glorious ripe beautiful white with clarity and intensity that is very impressive ” Now £22.25 each
“ finer than most white Burgundy, A glorious ripe beautiful white with clarity and intensity that is very impressive ” Now £22.25 each
Barbera DOCG
Barbera DOCG
Casali Del Barone
Casali Del Barone
“ juicy bramble fruits, mid weight with a superb warm full finish this is the ideal red for your festive table ”
Now 12.5% OFF at £13.99 each
“ juicy bramble fruits, mid weight with a superb warm full finish this is the ideal red for your festive table ” Now 12.5% OFF at £13.99 each
Chateau Ruat Poujeaux
Chateau Ruat Poujeaux
MOULIS EN MEDOC 2016
MOULIS EN MEDOC 2016
“ perfectly aged Claret with mature flavours abound. Enjoy with all the classic festive fare ” Now £22.99 each
“ perfectly aged Claret with mature flavours abound. Enjoy with all the classic festive fare ” Now £22.99 each
We recommendforyou…
We recommendforyou…
Bedoba Saperavi
Bedoba Saperavi
“ from the home of all wine, this is the epitome of a warming wintry red ”
“ from the home of all wine, this is the epitome of a warming wintry red ”
£19.99 each
£19.99 each
Montagny Blanc
Montagny Blanc
“ there is elegance and finesse in here only really seen in wines twice the price ”
“ there is elegance and finesse in here only really seen in wines twice the price ”
£28.99 each
£28.99 each
Handpicked Yarra Valley Pinot Noir
Handpicked Yarra Valley Pinot Noir
“ absolutely fab Pinot, juicy, earthy and elegant”
“ absolutely fab Pinot, juicy, earthy and elegant”
£22.50 each
£22.50 each
inta do Vallado LBV Port
inta do Vallado LBV Port
CASE DISCOUNTS
“ our new favourite Port, velvety, full and moreish” £24.99 each
“ our new favourite Port, velvety, full and moreish”
£24.99 each
Vite Colte Moscato 375ml
Vite Colte Moscato 375ml
“ literally like liquid gold, sublime”
“ literally like liquid gold, sublime” £13.99 each
£13.99 each
Whitlaw Signatory 2014
Whitlaw Signatory 2014
Single Malt Whisky
Single Malt Whisky
“a secret Highland Park edition, very rare!”
“a secret Highland Park edition, very rare!” £49.99 each
£49.99 each
CASE DISCOUNTS FREE LOCAL DELIVERY
FREE LOCAL DELIVERY
BUY ONLINE WITH UK DELIVERY SPIRITS - LIQUEURS
BUY ONLINE WITH UK DELIVERY SPIRITS - LIQUEURS
REAL ALE - CRAFT LAGER
REAL ALE - CRAFT LAGER LARGE FORMAT BOTTLES
LARGE FORMAT BOTTLES
FINE WINE & VINTAGE PORTS
FINE WINE & VINTAGE PORTS
GIFT PACKAGING
GIFT PACKAGING
BESPOKE GIFTING
BESPOKE GIFTING BUSINESS TO BUSINESS PRICING
BUSINESS TO BUSINESS PRICING
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is recognised as one of the best in Europe.
This year's Christmas Market takes place at The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS from Friday 21 November to Monday 22 December 2025. The market is open Monday to Wednesday from 10am to 6pm, Thursday from 10am to 7pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 8pm ans Sunday from 10am to 5pm.
Winchester Cathedral's Christmas Market is renowned for its bustling atmosphere, stunning location and handpicked high quality exhibitors, which attracts visitors from around the world each year who come to shop at the pretty wooden chalets, situated within the historic grounds.
The wooden chalets are inspired by traditional German Christmas Markets, and combined with the festive lighting, the sound of Christmas carols and the aroma of mulled wine and cinnamon drifting in the air, visitors will be transported into a festive setting to purchase their Christmas gifts and take in the atmosphere.
For those in search of an authentic Christmas experience, the Cathedral is at the heart of the city's celebration, with its many Christmas services, carol concerts, events.
The Ultimate christmas celebration Step aboard a steam train transformed into a dazzling spectacle of colour, music, and festive cheer! Steam Illuminations returns with a reimagined experience for 2025 – featuring immersive entertainment, enhanced light displays, and more onboard fun to make your journey truly unforgettable.
This year, the magic goes even further… Even Better Onboard Entertainment. Enjoy a reimagined experience with live entertainers onboard, delivering festive fun, music, and magical moments throughout your journey. From interactive games to spontaneous singalongs, there’s excitement in every carriage.
Hosted by the Legendary ‘Voiceover Man’ Famous for Britain’s Got Talent and X-Factor, ‘Voiceover Man’ returns as your charismatic host – guiding the journey with warmth, wit, and his signature humour. Get ready to laugh, sing, and compete in the lively FlashyOke game! Snow Cascade Returns – Bigger & More Spectacular At the summit of your journey, be mesmerised by the newly upgraded Snow Cascade – a delightful display, now extended for even more wonder.
Enjoy festive treats, snacks, and drinks from our NEW trolley service, available throughout the journey to keep the celebrations going.
Christmas Vibes Until 28 December. Before Christmas, the train is filled with holiday spirit and classic festive hits to get the whole carriage in the festive mood. The illuminations continue into January 2026. For more information visit: watercressline. co.uk/special-days/steam-illuminations/
Light up your December with a truly magical evening at Staunton Farm's Enlightened trail. From 4 to 28 December 2025, over a mile of the farm will be transformed into an enchanted wonderland filled with specially curated illuminations. Book now and prepare to be dazzled by Enlightened's biggest year yet.
Off Peak and Peak Tickets Available. Tickets available from £12.00 per adult and from £8.50 per child. Infants are free. Tickets available from enlightenedmoments.co.uk.
For 2025 there are three parking options: Free parking option – Located in the Country Park car park, no pre-booking of parking is required.
Premium parking option – Located next to the entrance in the Staunton Farm car park. To book this car park, please select premium parking when booking your ticket. Availability is strictly limited.
Blue Badge Parking – Located in the Staunton Farm Car Park.
First Entry is 4.30pm and then slots every 15 minutes. Pre-booking is required. Ticket types: Adult (16 and over), Child (3-15) and Infant (undr 3). The event is organised by Enlightened Moments and all enquiries should be made via the contact details on the website. The event is not managed by Staunton Farm and the farm team will be unable to assist you with your enquiries.
For more information and to book tickets visit: https://www.enlightenedmoments. co.uk/events/staunton-farm-2025/
Staunton Farm, Middle Park Way, Havant, Hampshire, PO9 5HB
Step into 2026 with style at Lainston House, set in 63 acres of Hampshire countryside. Choose your New Year’s Eve adventure: The Avenue, where MasterChef: The Professionals winner Tom Hamblet serves a six-course menu with paired wines, or The Wellhouse, where exceptional flavours are fuelled by fire. Enjoy a drinks reception, live DJ celebration, midnight fizz and an overnight stay in a luxury room or suite, followed by a New Year’s Day breakfast that’ll start your year right.
The Wellhouse Celebration Stay from £630 for two The Avenue Celebration Stay from £975 for two
01962 776088
lainstonhouse@exclusive.co.uk exclusive.co.uk/lainston-house
Lainston House, Sparsholt, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 2LT
COLLECT YOUR FREE 2026 ITCHEN VALLEY CALENDAR
Available to collect in
Co-operative Stores, Alresford Hellards Estate Agents, Alresford Cheriton Post Office & Stores
Ropley Courtyard Community Shop Alresford Town Council Offices
Due to production costs we are unable to deliver door-to-door to the villages this year so please collect a copy from one of the above places
Those living in or around Alresford who would otherwise be on their own are invited to a Traditional Christmas Day lunch at Makins Court
Please book your place by phoning Patricia Walker on 01962 732629 Lifts will be available to and from Makins Court if required A contribution of £5 per person is requested
We also need Volunteers to help prepare vegetables and set up tables on Christmas Eve and on Christmas Day show guests to their tables, serve lunch, washing and drying up - leaving Makins Court clean and tidy. Please
A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in putting up the poppy’s around the town and creating the beautiful poppy display at St John’s Church.
Each poppy has been lovingly knitted by the talented ladies of Alresford, with generous funding provided by the New Alresford Town Council, and carefully assembled and installed by the Men’s Shed team.
Please can we give a warm welcome to our newest member of the council, Cllr Donna Lipton. Donna has spent over 30 years working as a clinician mainly in the NHS. For the past 10 years she has been a Specialist Community Public Health Nurse.
Donna lives with her husband and 2 dogs and can often be seen in Arlebury Park and around the town. Welcome Donna.
Did you know that some trees in our area are legally protected because of the value they bring to our surroundings?
A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is issued by Winchester City Council to protect individual trees, groups of trees, or even whole woodlands that make a significant contribution to the local landscape or are considered to be under threat. If a tree is protected by a TPO, it’s against the law to cut down, top, lop, uproot, or intentionally damage or destroy it, even if branches overhang your property.
Anyone wishing to carry out work on a protected tree must first get permission from Winchester City Council. If there’s a tree (or group of trees) in your neighbourhood that you feel is important — perhaps because of its beauty, history, or the wildlife it supports — you can apply for it to be considered for protection. You don’t have to own the tree to make a request.
To learn more or to request a TPO, visit: www.winchester.gov.uk/planning/trees/ tree-preservation-orders-tpos or email: naturalenvironment@winchester.gov.uk Please note that submitting a request doesn’t guarantee that a TPO will be made.
If you’re curious about which trees already have TPOs, there’s a great interactive map on the Winchester City Council website , just search “Winchester Council interactive map” online. In New Alresford, for example, NATC-owned trees with TPOs can be found along the footpath in Sun Hill Recreation Ground.
Alresford Recreation Centre
Need a professional space for your next community meeting or event for 2026? Rent our meeting room equipped with modern amenities, audiovisual support, wipe board and good central location with parking. It’s the perfect setting for success! Book now to host your gatherings with confidence and efficiency. Elevate your meetingsreserve our council meeting room today!
Hire Charges
New Alresford residents/charities £7.00ph
New Alresford commercial and non-residents
£8.00ph
Each year, we receive a number of reports about overgrown hedges and vegetation next to highways and footpaths. These issues can make it difficult,
and sometimes unsafe, for people to get around. We work together with landowners to help keep this kind of obstruction to a minimum.
Overgrown hedges can be especially problematic for people who are visually impaired or have limited mobility. When paths are narrow or heavily obstructed, these individuals might not be able to use them safely and could be forced to take a longer route. Generally, trees growing directly on a path are the responsibility of Hampshire County Council. However, if a hedge forms a boundary between a footpath and a private property, it’s usually the property owner’s responsibility to keep it trimmed. It is an offence under the Highways Act 1980 to allow trees, hedges, shrubs and so on to obstruct the highway.
In the first instance, we’ll contact the hedge owner asking that the work is done. Where a request from the Town Council goes unanswered, we will inform Hampshire County Council who may serve a notice requiring the work to be completed within a certain timeframe. We’d like to ask all property owners to take a few moments to check their trees, shrubs, and hedges that border highways or footpaths. Regular maintenance helps ensure that everyone in our community can use the paths safely and comfortably.
Please see this month's Calendar of events & meetings. You are very welcome to attend all meetings with an opportunity at the start of the meeting to share any thoughts or ideas. Meetings are held in the ground floor meeting room at Alresford Recreation Centre. Please don’t hesitate to contact our Town Clerk Richard Doughty: townclerk@newalresford-tc.gov.uk
Planning Committee Meeting
Tuesday 2 December from 7pm to 9pm Property Committee Meeting
Tuesday 9 December from 7pm to 9pm Full Town Council Meeting
Tuesday 16 December from 7pm to 9pm
Our office will be closed from Wednesday 24 December to Monday 5 January inclusive.
A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all from New Alresford Town Council
From flawless skin to sculpted confidence — be your most radiant self this season
This season, let your confidence shine through beautifully refre House Medi Spa are designed to smooth, lift and illuminate — en understated results that last well beyond the festivities.
Expertise you can trust Discreet, eleg Bespoke treatment plans Award-winning technology
Hydrafacial
Skin tag removal
IPL Treatments
Thread Vein Removal
Beauty and Massages
Facials
The Perfect Peel
Pain Free Laser Hair Removal
Radiofrequency Microneedling & HIFU
Viscoderm Hydrabooster
Step into the festive season feeling your absolute best
At Saddle House Medi Spa, we offer all your beauty essentials including:
BIAB Nails
Sienna X Tanning
Intimate Waxing
Gift Vouchers
HydraFacials
Massage
Brows
Luxury Thalgo
Redefine your shape this winter with Emsculpt Neo — where FDA approved technology meets transformation
Sculpt. Strengthen. Shine.
This winter, experience the ultimate body-sculpting treatment at Saddle House Medi Spa. Emsculpt Neo combines radiofrequency and high-intensity electromagnetic energy to simultaneously reduce fat and build muscle, giving you a firmer, stronger, and more defined body — with zero downtime.
The treatment is designed to help:
Abdomen Arms
Calves Bum Thighs Flanks
Courses of 4 treatments:
1 area – £1,200 (save £400)
2 areas – £1,800 (save £700)
3 areas – £2,400 (save £1,000)
Thank you to our wonderful staff
We would like to say a HUGE thank you to our wonderful staff who have organised, co-ordinated, vaccinated and inputted at our covid & flu clinics. We have vaccinated 2,328 covid and flu patients & 1,053 flu only patients (to date) and this is all in addition to our usual workload.
Medication supplies over the Christmas break
If you take regular medications, please make sure you have enough to see you over the festive period and please place requests with us in good time if repeats will be needed. If you have family coming to stay with you remind them not to forget their medicines.
Spotlight
In each issue we will provide details about a product, service or healthcare role.
does a Reception Care Co-ordinator do?
Reception Care Co-ordinators play a vital role in ensuring our practice runs smoothly by supporting patients. They are the first point of contact for patients offering assistance both in person and over the phone and respond to certain requests via your online services, ensuring a good healthcare experience.
Reception Care Co-ordinators:
• Handle incoming calls, address patient enquiries, and ensure patients are connected with the right department or specialist professional
• Perform reception duties, including scheduling appointments and managing administrative tasks to support the smooth operation of the practice
Working collaboratively within a team, they enjoy making a difference in people’s healthcare journeys. We currently have 8 Reception Care Coordinators (a mixture of full and part time)
How to set up your notifications in your NHS App account.
Check the set up in your device e.g. mobile phone, or tablet etc for the NHS App and make sure you have enabled notifications so that you get a prompt when NHS services have sent you a message. Please also look out for text messages, emails and phone calls.
eConsult will be switched off during the Christmas & New Year bank holiday period:
Any eConsult request you submit outside of our normal surgery opening hours will not be read until we open the next working day. Patients will not be able to submit eConsults over the weekend or bank holiday period. All the other eConsult advice services will still be accessible 24/7. NHS 111 can help if you have an urgent medical problem when your GP practice is closed. Dial 111 on any phone for advice, or visit the NHS 111 website – 111.nhs.uk. Remember to call 999 at any time in a medical emergency. This is when someone is seriously ill, or injured, and their life is at risk.
Christmas & New Year
We wish everyone a very happy Christmas – please make sure you have sufficient supplies of your usual medications to last over the holiday period which you can order in a number of ways;
• In person at the surgery
• By post
• Via the NHS App or Patient Access (https://www.patientaccess.com/)
PROVIDING CARE SINCE 1999
Check out our range of services from £55
All your routine podiatry/chiropody care followed by a nail treatment and Swedish foot massage. Finished with nourishing foot butter and hot boot therapy. Go on, you deserve it!
Treatment £87
Tel. 01962 571072
Located in: Walkers, 11 East Street, Alresford, SO249EQ www.alresfordpodiatry.co.uk
The surgery will be closed on 25 and 26 December and 1 January. If you need urgent medical care you can access the Out of Hours service for advice, a face to face appointment or, if it is necessary, a home visit. The number to call is 111.
111 is the NHS non-emergency number. It’s fast, easy and free. Call 111 and speak to a highly trained adviser, supported by healthcare professionals. They will ask you a series of questions to assess your symptoms and immediately direct you to the best medical care for you. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones.
May we wish you all a very happy Christmas and a healthy New Year from all the staff & partners at Alresford Surgery.
It’s good to be home
We’re here so your loved one can stay at home, where things are familiar and they feel at ease. We’re here for you too, because when a loved one needs care, it can be a challenging time in your life as well.
Of course, it’s much more than that. They also get 1-to-1 support with everyday errands. Help with washing and feeding, someone to swap stories with, and a new friend who can help them see old friends. All this in a safe environment, with familiar routines, that can delay age-related illnesses such as early onset dementia.
You also get complete confidence that they are receiving premium support from a provider that’s proudly rated Outstanding by the CQC.
For outstanding-rated home care in Alresford, the Worthys & Itchen Valley, contact us today 01962 856 900 alresford@bluebirdcare.co.uk
It’s not just putting Mum at ease. It’s giving you peace of mind.
Those of us who have issues down there know the impact our vagina can have on our quality of life.
But we should ALL feel good about our vaginas.
Ultra Femme 360 is the painless radio frequency treatment that promotes the body’s own natural collagen production to restore and tighten the vaginal area.
From puberty, childbirth, menopause, and all the fun stuff in between, our vaginas go through a lot, and we rarely give them the care they need. Our vaginal area is just as prone to damage and ageing as the rest of our body. Distressing problems with vaginal laxity, stress incontinence or reduced tissue quality are all experienced by most women at some point in their life.
The Ultra Femme 360 treatment provides total vaginal rejuvenation in one quick and painless treatment that lasts just eight minutes*.
What is Ultra Femme 360?
Ultra Femme 360 is a non-surgical solution for restoring the internal and external vaginal area. As the applicator is guided in and around the vagina, the radio frequency activates our own body’s natural collagen and elastin production, which tightens the vaginal canal and surrounding skin. The low levels of heat from the treatment also encourages blood flow to the area, further boosting the effects.
Feel good…
Who can benefit from Ultra Femme 360?
This is a safe and gentle treatment that is suitable for most women. If you have experienced vaginal changes since childbirth or menopause or have functional issues including stress incontinence or reduced sexual enjoyment, Ultra Femme 360 can tighten, restore, and rejuvenate your vagina for increased confidence and personal wellbeing.
Does the treatment hurt?
We understand that this kind of treatment can feel daunting. However, we aim to make you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout the treatment, which is entirely painless and lasts only 8 minutes. There is no downtime, and you can return to your normal daily activities immediately afterwards. *Recommended one treatment per week for three weeks for the best results.
We are one of the first clinics in the country to offer this treatment and look forward to welcoming you at The Face & Skin Clinic.
Those of us who have issues down there know the impact our vagina can have on our quality of life.
But we should ALL feel good about our vaginas.
Ultra Femme 360 is the painless radio frequency treatment that promotes the body’s own natural collagen production to restore and tighten the vaginal area.
From puberty, childbirth, menopause, and all the fun stuff in between, our vaginas go through a lot, and we rarely give them the care they need.
Our vaginal area is just as prone to damage and ageing as the rest of our body.
Distressing problems with vaginal laxity, stress incontinence or reduced tissue quality are all experienced by most women at some point in their life.
The Ultra Femme 360 treatment provides total vaginal rejuvenation in one quick and painless treatment that lasts just eight minutes*.
What is Ultra Femme 360?
Ultra Femme 360 is a non-surgical solution for restoring the internal and external vaginal area. As the applicator is guided in and around the vagina, the radio frequency activates our own body’s natural collagen and elastin production, which tightens the vaginal canal and surrounding skin. The low levels of heat from the treatment also encourages blood flow to the area, further boosting the effects.
Feel good…
Who can benefit from Ultra Femme 360?
This is a safe and gentle treatment that is suitable for most women. If you have experienced vaginal changes since childbirth or menopause or have functional issues including stress incontinence or reduced sexual enjoyment, Ultra Femme 360 can tighten, restore, and rejuvenate your vagina for increased confidence and personal wellbeing.
Does the treatment hurt?
We understand that this kind of treatment can feel daunting. However, we aim to make you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout the treatment, which is entirely painless and lasts only 8 minutes. There is no downtime, and you can return to your normal daily activities immediately afterwards. *Recommended one treatment per week for three weeks for the best results.
We are one of the first clinics in the country to offer this treatment and look forward to welcoming you at The Face & Skin Clinic.
BY JILL WALMSLEY, EDUCATION
December may be the quietest month in the gardening calendar, but it’s far from idle time. While the garden rests, there’s still plenty we can do to protect plants, care for wildlife, and prepare for the new year ahead. At Hampshire Gardens Trust, we celebrate the history and beauty of Hampshire’s landscapes — but that same appreciation starts in our own gardens, even in winter. So here are some key tips for December:
1. Protect from Frost and Snow
Cold weather can damage tender plants and containers. Use fleece or cloches to protect them, and move pots into sheltered corners or near the house. Raise them off the ground to prevent waterlogging, and gently brush snow off shrubs to avoid broken branches.
2. Care for Evergreens
Evergreens are the backbone of the winter garden, providing structure and colour when little else is growing. Check for wind damage and prune out any broken branches. A light mulch around their base will help protect roots from frost and retain moisture.
3. Plan for the Year Ahead
With the garden quiet, December is the perfect time to reflect and plan. Browse seed catalogues, design new planting schemes, and order bulbs and seeds ready for spring sowing. Clean and sharpen your tools, and ensure your greenhouse or shed is tidy and weatherproof.
4. Feed the Wildlife
Winter can be tough for birds and small mammals. Keep feeders topped up with high-energy foods like sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet balls. Refresh bird baths regularly to prevent freezing, and leave a small pile of leaves or logs for insects and hedgehogs to shelter in.
5. Enjoy Winter Colour
Plants such as hellebores, dogwood, and winter jasmine can bring life and brightness to your garden during the darker months. Place pots near windows or paths where you can enjoy them on crisp, cold days.
As the year draws to a close, take a moment to appreciate your garden’s quiet beauty and the promise of spring to come. To explore Hampshire’s remarkable gardens and join a community of enthusiasts, consider becoming a member of the Hampshire Gardens Trust — where a love of gardens is nurtured all year round.
Hampshire Gardens Trust - Jermyns House, Jermyns Lane, Ampfield SO51 0QA | Email: admin@hgt.org.uk
Tree Care and Woodland Management
• Tree surgery / TPO applications
• Hedge maintenance
• Fencing / Garden structures
• Woodland management / tree planting
Qualified
• equestrian maintenance • Ploughing
• field cultivation • Hedge cutting • Forestry
• spraying specialist • fencing • topping
• wood thining • Tree Felling & branch lopping Load of logs - £80 per truck load Tel: 01962 735452 / Mob: 07880 527049 www.appletoncontracting.co.uk
Daren George - your local pest controller from Alresford
• Rats & Mice, Moles, Squirrels, Rabbits, Wasps, Crawling & Flying Insects, Live Bee removals
Fully insured - Discreet service assured at all time
Harko:
Gifting money directly to your grandchildren could give them a valuable financial headstart. It could also be a tax-efficient way of passing on wealth to the next generation while helping to manage your estate’s inheritance tax (IHT) liability.
It’s expensive being young
University tuition fees in England and Wales now top £9,500 a year1, while the average UK house price stood at £271,415 in March 2025 – that’s 53.8% higher than a decade ago2 These challenges mean that gifting money directly to grandchildren could make a bigger difference to their financial security than if they were to wait for an inheritance.
Leaving money through your will might be one of the least tax-efficient ways to pass on wealth, and could come too late to make a meaningful difference. There are several ways to pass on wealth to grandchildren while you’re alive that could also help to manage IHT.
• Junior ISAs and bare trusts
A Junior ISA (Individual Savings Account) is a good way to save for a young grandchild’s future. While only parents or legal guardians can open one, anyone can contribute. The annual tax-free limit for a Junior ISA is £9,000. Alternatively, a bare trust has no investment limits. Contributions made into bare trusts by someone who’s not the child’s parent/guardian are taxed as if they belong to the child, often resulting in minimal or no tax being due. Once your grandchild turns 18, they can use the funds from either option as they wish.
• Lifetime gifts
Annually, you can gift £3,000 IHT-free and £2,500 for a grandchild’s marriage or civil partnership. Larger gifts, called potentially exempt transfers, may be IHT exempt if you survive seven years.
There’s an exemption for ‘gifts out of surplus income’ that can be used to cover recurrent costs, such as school fees. These gifts must:
Be part of your normal expenditure
Be made from your income (not capital)
Leave you with sufficient income to maintain your standard of living.
• Buy a life assurance policy
If you have surplus income, you could also fund a wholeof-life insurance policy, which is paid out on death and can provide a means to pay some of your estate’s IHT bill.
Securing your family’s financial security while gifting money can be challenging. That’s where a wealth manager can help. They will create a personalised financial plan to let you gift assets and build a legacy.
1 https://www.ucas.com/finance/undergraduate-tuition-fees-and-student-loans 2 https://landregistry.data.gov.uk/app/ukhpi
We live and work local to you. We would be delighted to help you and your family achieve financial clarity and stability.
Kirsty Simpson Wealth Manager E: kirsty.simpson@brewin.co.uk
Alice Proctor Wealth Manager E: alice.proctor@brewin.co.uk
46 Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8RY T: 01962 798000 W: www.brewin.co.uk/ our-offices/winchester
The value of investments, and any income from them, can fall and you may get back less than you invested. This does not constitute tax or legal advice. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. You should always check the tax implications with an accountant or tax specialist. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy. Information contained in this document is believed to be reliable and accurate, but without further investigation cannot be warranted as to accuracy or completeness. RBC Brewin Dolphin is a trading name of RBC Europe Limited. RBC Europe Limited is registered in England and Wales No. 995939. Registered Address: 100 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AA. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.
WARNER AND RICHARDSON LLP ARE INDEPENDENT SOLICITORS LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC CITY OF WINCHESTER.
WE HAVE A STRONG, LONG STANDING REPUTATION FOR PERSONAL SERVICE AND HIGH QUALITY LEGAL ADVICE. FOR INFORMATION ON HOW WE CAN HELP YOU WITH ANY OF THESE MATTERS:-
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PLEASE CONTACT US ON Visit our website:-
Towns, villages and homes are being lit up for the festive season, and cards are being written. It’s a good time to celebrate, but those nights are so long!
Children are walking to school in the dark, and maybe home too. Parents waking with tiny babies have to spend a lot of those dark nights wake. Those suffering with pain find the dark times even harder to bear.
As we approach the longest night and shortest day, I hold onto the saying:-
‘No winter lasts forever No Spring skips it’s turn’
I did shift work in the long holidays through University. I am so glad I did - the experience gave me a real appreciation of how hard it is. Working in a factory, eating your break at 4am… We rotated shifts 6am - 2, 210pm and 10 - 6am. I will never forget the feeling of wondering what sort of meal I should be eating? Even what day it was? The days just didn’t make sense. If you are required to work shifts - thank you.
There are jobs where shift work is essential - in the NHS for example. Staff working that long night shift need our appreciation, but those on days might have done nights recently too. Postal workers, Police and Emergency services and many others work night shifts too. So why do we make it worse by going back to GMT, when we could be in BST +1hour? It would save carbon too? Please let me know your views.
There are a number of consultations ongoing at WCC and HCC at present. There is a Budget Consultation at HCC. Go to the website and search Budget for details. We expect a Local Government Reorganisation consultation after Christmas too.
I dialled into a presentation from Southern Water this week. The storms hitting the UK will help to restore water levels but the reservoir at Budds Farm won’t now be complete until 2034 after a hitch in the geology. So the Candover Valley Water Augmentation scheme is back on the agendanow likely to cost £10m. Meanwhile, please continue to think how you can use water carefully, even though the ban is now off. It could be a good time to fit a water butt or two? If you would like one, but don’t know how to go about it, please contact me.
And talking of gifts… could the Juliana statue be a gift to Winchester?
I think Juliana de la Floude should have a statue just like Jane Austen and Licoricia. It would remind us how precious is pure clean water. Juliana, who lived in Winchester, fought for clean water in 1299. She won her campaign against a powerful local businessman who had a tannery, which polluted the water. Her appeal to the King was successful: she won! Her campaign led to the right to clean water in the Declaration of Human Rights. It seems fitting that this started in our district - with precious chalk rivers.
To find out more, please contact me! Jackie.porter@hants.gov.uk | 07973 696085
I am often asked about mobile telephones for seniors with no tech experience. A model worth considering is made by DORO. Available from Amazon new or refurbished they have a few simple clear buttons on the main screen making it extremely simple to operate. They will work with any UK network and all you need to add is a pay as you go SIM card with a basic plan. To all my customers - new and old - thank you for another great year! Whether it was setting up your new Mac, iPhone, iPad, Windows laptop, or PC, or just fixing a tricky tech problem, I appreciate your trust and business. A special thank you for reading my monthly newsletter and for all the positive feedback you send. Your engagement keeps them going, and as long as you keep reading, I'll keep writing! Wishing you all a jolly holiday season and all the very best for the next year.
Andy Mr Mac - December 2025
The Government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill is being billed as a way to unlock growth while restoring nature. But beneath that promise lies a serious risk to wildlife and wild places theyand we - depend on.
At the heart of the debate is Part 3 of the Bill, which would overhaul environmental protections in planning. It seeks to replace local, site-specific protections with a so-called strategic approach. Instead of requiring developers to avoid or minimise harm, Environmental Delivery Plans (EDPs) would allow them to pay into a central fund to compensate for the damage caused with no guarantee this would happen locally or at all.
That might sound efficient, but it risks creating a “pay-to-destroy” model. Once an ancient woodland or wildflower meadow is gone, no amount of money can bring it back. Species like bluebells and bats depend
on stable, undisturbed habitats that take centuries to evolve. The moral stakes are high too: destroying a badger sett causes real stress, injury, and death.
Working alongside The Wildlife Trusts, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust has worked closely with peers, raising awareness of the Bill’s risks and advocating for stronger protections that could safeguard nature from harm. Following crucial votes in the House of Lords, the Bill now returns to the House of Commons, where MPs must ensure safeguards remain.
Two amendments in the Bill are vital for Hampshire and the Island. Amendment 94 strengthens protections for our chalk streams and rivers, which are among the county’s most precious habitats. These crystal-clear waters are home to brown trout, water voles, otters and kingfishers. Once polluted, diverted, or built over, these unique ecosystems cannot be recreated elsewhere. Amendment 130 ensures that EDPs are used only where they benefit nature - such as
tackling air or water pollution - rather than being misapplied to species and habitats that depend on local conditions. Without it, species like dormice and badgers could lose vital legal safeguards. Badgers are territorial and depend on long-established setts; they cannot just “move on” when bulldozed.
Nature is at risk but your MP can make a difference. The Bill is close to becoming law, and without these safeguards, it could be disastrous for wildlife.
Please ask your MP to back Amendments 94 and 130. These vital protections are our last chance to make sure that wildlife and habitats aren’t sacrificed for development.
Nature needs your voice now. Visit: https:// action.wildlifetrusts.org/page/180301/action/1 to submit a very easy online form to your MP.
07801 816 062 email: franco@carpediemec.com www.carpediemec.com
The Christmas Orchestra is back! After a wonderful run of sold out shows in 2024 we are excited to bring you more shows and locations in 2025. Get ready to discover the magic of the festive season with our unique concert experience.
On 20 December our tour makes a special stop at Winchester Guildhall, bringing the festive spirit right to your doorstep. Celebrate this special time of year with us in Winchester and create memories together that will last a lifetime!
The concert is performed live by a 16 piece chamber orchestra supported with full sound production and lighting show. Experience uplifting nostalgia with compositions from your favourite Christmas films, as well as popular sing-along classics to ignite your festive spirit, including:
• Home Alone • Polar Express
• Love Actually • Elf
• Muppet Christmas Carol
• The Nutcracker
• Bridget Jones Diary
• Harry Potter
The Christmas Orchestra promises a magical and energising festive journey, capturing the essence of Christmas, perfect for igniting your holiday spirit.
Gold Vip Tickets - Tickets give you the best views at the event with the closest view of the stage and performance, plus a complimentary VIP concert programme.
Vip Tickets - Tickets give you close views of the view of the stage and performance, plus a complimentary VIP concert programme. All VIP seats will be behind VIP Gold Seats.
Central Seats / Gallery Seats - All of these allocated seats will be unreserved seats, but you must keep to your allocated seating area due to capacity and allocations. Checks will be carried out throughout the night. All Ticket types are unreserved seating and first come first served.
For more information and to purchase tickets visit: https:// guildhallwinchester.co.uk/events/the-christmas-orchestra/
MOT, Tyres & Bodywork Repairs FREE Local collection and courtesy cars (T&C's apply) Free Safety Checks
Please ring our friendly team on: 01962 736186 andy.wilcan@live.co.uk www.wilcan.co.uk THE LONG BARN, WINCHESTER ROAD, ALRESFORD, SO24 9EZ
TEL: 01962 865602 MOBILE: 07752 570787 OR VISIT WWW.PRESTIGECARSALRESFORD.CO.UK
Christmas cheer has taken over the Planetarium and Santa’s North Pole has come to Winchester. Young and old will be transported to an intergalactic wonderland as Christmas comes to life
through an immersive theatrical experience like no other. A live show, magical effects and an out-of-this-world journey through space on the Planetarium dome will come together as an original Christmas tale comes alive. Children will receive a special Christmas gift and there'll even be time to meet Santa himself and snap a festive selfie.
Make memories this Christmas that will propel you to the stars and back!
Our Cosmic Christmas experience includes:
• An immersive theatrical performance filled with magical effects and a Planetarium adventure (there will be audience participation which may be loud and the show will use immersive elements)
• A meet and greet with Santa and a chance to take photos
• A Christmas gift for all children
From Saturday 6 December to Tuesday 23 December. For tickets and more information visit: https://www.winchestersciencecentre.org/ whats-on/cosmic-christmas
ALRESFORD BASED AND COVER SURROUNDING AREA INCLUDING WINCHESTER
VIEWING AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
IF YOU ARE THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING A USED CAR PLEASE CONTACT ME
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