NEWS & EVENTS FOR FEBRUARY
Find out what's going on in the Test Valley
OUR REGULAR MONTHLY FEATURE
Knowing Me, Knowing You written by Lucia Foster-Found RECIPE OF THE MONTH Authentic Chickpea Curry
DEMOCRACY IN ACTION
An election every year - or is boredom setting in?
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Thursdays
From 10am to 11.30am
Abbey Hall, Romsey, SO51 8EL
If you’d like a friendly space and a warm welcome, The Social Cup runs every Thursday, 10-11.30am in Abbey Hall Lounge. Drop in for hot drinks and a chat — everyone is welcome. Abbey Hall can be found through the arch, towards the park; the second green door on the left before the road widens.
Chillout Tuesday
2nd Tuesday of the month
The White Horse Hotel, Market Place, Romsey, SO51 8ZJ
No down time? Find some 'you' time. Life hectic@ Meet new people, a warm welcome for everyone. A safe place for everyone. Held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. A relaxed, welcoming place to meet and chat — just look for the sign on the table. For more information visit: www.abbeyurc.org.uk or abbeyurc.chillout@gmail.com
Stockbridge Amateur Dramatic Society - Great Company
Tuesday 2 February
From 7.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
Come and take part in a Drama Workshop. Open to all, you don’t have to be a member of SADS to enjoy an evening of great company, though new members are always welcome. For more information, visit our website: stockbridgeamdrams.org.uk
Chilbolton Village Hall Film ‘Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (PG)
Friday 6 February
Doors 6.30pm Film 7.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
Featuring Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Dan Stevens, Elizabeth McGovern and Lesley Nicol. In the summer of 1930, the Crawley family are faced with the threat of financial trouble and social disgrace, when Mary finds herself in the centre of a public scandal. Doors Open at 6.30pm. Film commences at 7.30pm. Tickets £6 in advance from Beryl Lawrence on 01264 860618 Email: dlaw@davidlawrence associates.co.uk Or £7.00 on the door (if available). Tea/Coffee and biscuits available - Wine, Beer and Choc Ices on sale.
Saturday 7 February
From 9.30 to 4.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, Hampshire, SO20 6HE
We offer a wide range of Decorative, Useful, Interesting, Quirky and Unusual items including good quality Furniture, Paintings and Prints, Lighting, Silver, China and Glass and Jewellery. Free Admission & Free Parking. We will also buy. The Fair is on the first Saturday of the monthConfirm fair dates on Antiques Atlas: https://antiques-atlas.com/ dbevents/ Contacts: Instagramcarolfentumantiques Carol - 01264 335769/07870 432805, Steve01722 712267 / 07915 663251
Broughton and Bossington Horticultural Society Talk
Wednesday 11 February
From 7.30pm
Broughton Village Hall
High Street, Broughton Stockbridge, SO20 8AX
A talk by Zona McGlynn entitled Plants for Shady Areas. Zona will be giving an overview about the different adaptations used by plants and how they read them. She will cover the different types of shade and introduce a variety of plants that many may not have met before and show how to make what could be a dull area sing.
Stockbridge CinemaParthenope (15)
Friday 13 February
From 7.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, Hampshire, SO20 6HE
From Academy Award-winning filmmaker Paolo Sorrentino (The Great Beauty, The Hand of God) comes a monumental and deeply romantic story of a lifetime. Born in the Bay of Naples in 1950, Parthenope (Celeste Dalla Porta) searches for happiness over the long summers of her youth, falling in love with her home city and its many memorable characters. But when tragedy strikes, and carefree romances lose their thrill, she decides to seek a deeper sense of purpose. Featuring a captivating performance from Dalla Porta and an outstanding cast that includes Gary Oldman, Parthenope is another tale of great beauty from a master of modern cinema. Tickets £6.00 on sale online via www. stockbridgecinema.org.uk or free telephone call to TicketSource 0333 666 3366. Please visit our website for full details of all films.
Stockbridge CinemaDownton Abbey: The Grand Finale (PG)
Wednesday 18 February
From 4.45pm to 7.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, Hampshire, SO20 6HE
The cinematic return of the global phenomenon follows the Crawley family and their staff as they enter the 1930s. When Mary finds herself at the centre of a public scandal and the family faces financial trouble, the entire household grapples with the threat of social disgrace. The Crawleys must embrace change as the staff prepares for a new chapter with the next generation leading Downton Abbey into the future. Information common to both films Showing at Stockbridge Town Hall SO20 6HE. Tickets £6.00 on sale online via www.stockbridgecinema. org.uk or free telephone call to TicketSource 0333 666 3366. Please visit our website for full details of all films.
Friday 13 March
From 7.30pm (Talk 8pm)
Goodworth Clatford Village Club, SP11 7RE
A talk by noted aviation historian, Paul Beaver FRAeS, in which he will reveal some of his research following the release of his new best seller, Mitchell – Father of the Spitfire. Paying bar available. Tickets £10 available online at www.trybooking.com/uk/FPWD Paul will explain the RJ Mitchell legacy, the inside story of the design and the teething problems with the iconic fighter before it entered service in 1938. All proceeds towards The Village Club Refurbishment Fund. Signed copies of Paul’s book will be available on the night.
St Matthew PassionRomsey Abbey
Saturday 21 March
From 6.30pm
Romsey Abbey, Church Lane, Romsey, SO51 8EP
Looking forward to Easter… local choirs: Kingsgate Voices and Southern Voices will join forces with a host of famous soloists and first-class orchestra to perform JS Bach’s St Matthew Passion on 21 March at 6.30pm (NB: early start time). Katharine Fuge, Malachy Frame, Jessica Gillingwater & Gareth Brynmor John will be joined by rising stars including Sebastian Hill accompanied on period instruments by London Baroque Sinfonia with Andrew Hayman conducting and Winchester Cathedral Girls Choir. Perhaps a once in a life-time opportunity to hear this great work – not to be missed and book early! Tickets £38, £28, £18 (concessions available): ticketsource.co.uk/musicinromsey (0333 666 4466) and from Oasis Bookshop, 25 Church Street, Romsey (01794 512194).
If you would like to feature your event on this page FREE of charge simply email your contribution to editor@ forumpublications.co.uk Please note that we are unable to guarantee publication.
• Change all your drawers, doors, panels and plinths
• New worktops can be fitted
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Our head fitters are ex-shipwright joiners so you are guaranteed excellent quality installation.
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We also design and install bespoke new kitchens, bedrooms, boot rooms, media walls, living room storage.
Updating your tired and dated kitchen has many benefits; not only does it make your kitchen new and inviting and a pleasure to be in, but it can also help considerably with the saleability and value of your home! Call us today for a free of charge home visit, we can tailor a quote to your budget - be it a bespoke kitchen replacement or a simple kitchen makeover
Weyhill | Price £1,350,000
Outstanding brand new six-bedroom family house with open country views, set on nearly an acre with a long driveway, ample parking and a double garage.
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A charming detached period home that has been professionally renovated and modernised throughout offering generously proportioned light and well-appointed accommodation with a westerly facing landscaped garden set in the heart of this popular village.
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A semi detached period cottage with a large rear extension that has been tastefully modernised and is particularly well appointed with a beautiful garden which runs down and overlooks the Pillhill Brook.
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Over Wallop | Price £410,000
A charming period cottage that has been sympathetically restored and modernised full of character and with a beautiful cottage garden in a tucked away position set back from the road.
An excellent detached brand new 4/5 bedroom family house with well appointed and particularly spacious accommodation standing in about a fifth of an acre in a quiet elevated rural setting on the edge of the village with impressive far-reaching country views. West Tytherley | Price £1,300,000
A unique detached four bedroom house with a contemporary design together with a large versatile car barn set in a stunning mature garden and enjoying a peaceful tucked away position on the edge of the sought after village of West Tytherley.
It was the birds of prey that captured the heart of Reg and Hilary’s youngest son, Ashley, and together they trained some of the birds before demonstrating their first public flying display in 1975. It was a huge success. Around this time, Reg also played a key role in the formation of the Zoo Licensing Act, which set standards for the way animals should be cared for in captivity.
Unfortunately, by the late 1970s, Reg’s passion for European wildlife was not being shared by the general public, who wanted to see bigger and more exotic animal species such as elephants. However, Ashley’s passion for birds of prey was stronger than ever and, as a family, they decided that the time was right to specialise in one group of species. With this change, in 1980-1981, the park changed its name to The Hawk Conservancy.
Over the next few years, as the collection of raptors steadily grew, the care of injured wildlife continued, although there was now an emphasis on raptors, which still spent most of their time in the farmhouse. The Trust started to become involved with conservation breeding programmes and was one of the first collections to breed a variety of raptor species.
The Hawk Conservancy’s birds were in great demand for TV and film work and Ashley travelled to film studios all over the country. Some of the work included a James Bond film, pop videos and several TV commercials. Ashley and his birds met Prince Charles and Princess Diana at an exhibition and many of the birds were featured on natural history programmes including David Attenborough’s The Life of Birds.
In 1995, Reg was able to buy back the seven acres of land he’d sold to finance Weyhill Zoo. Sadly, Reg passed away that year but, as a tribute to him, Ashley and Hilary converted that land from arable farmland back into a
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the Hawk Conservancy Trust won awards as both a visitor attraction and a conservation organisation.
A fundraising appeal raised enough money over three years to build a state-of-the-art bird of prey hospital. Opened by the Duke of Gloucester, this facility provides specialist care and treatment for up to 200 sick, injured or orphaned raptors brought to the Trust annually. The hospital was built in recognition of the care and dedication Hilary had given to wildlife for more than 40 years, the hospital, known originally as ‘Hilary’s Hospital’ was a fitting memorial after her sad death in 2006.
In 2002, the Hawk Conservancy Trust was formed to take responsibility for rehabilitation, conservation and research activities. Three years later the Trust assumed full responsibility for the entire operational setting, including education.
Today, the Trust continues Reg and Hilary’s conservation work on a global scale. By working with many organisations and conservation groups across the world, we are able to deliver conservation, education, rehabilitation and research programmes and generate awareness for birds of prey, their habitats and the problems they face. This includes projects such as the Raptor Nest Box and Red Kite reintroduction projects in the UK through to the International Vulture Programme in southern Africa and south Asia.
None of this would be possible without the support of the many thousands of visitors who visit the Trust every year. As a charity, membership, entrance and support fees are a vital method of funding all the work at the Trust. Volunteers and staff work tirelessly to ensure that the vital work which began from humble beginnings more than 50 years ago, continues for many more years to come.
Donations are a vital source of funding and go directly towards the conservation, education, rehabilitation and research work that we carry out with birds of prey. As a registered charity we rely on your support and are very grateful for all donations that we receive. You can donate to the Trust by visiting: https://www.hawkconservancy.org/support-us/donate/
If you would like to donate on a more regular basis, please consider becoming a supporter. To find out more about supporting the Hawk Conservancy Trust visit: https://www.hawkconservancy.org/support-us/
We always love to hear from you and are happy to help with any questions that you have. To get in touch, please use the form below or the following contact details: info@ hawkconservancy.org
The best way to contact our team is via info@ hawkconservancy.org with details of your enquiry. Please include a phone number in case we need to call you back and we will contact you as soon as we can. Tel: 01264 773850 Lines are open between 10am and 4pm. If you do need to speak with someone, please call 01264 773850 between 10am and 4pm. The phone lines won’t be monitored outside of these times but you can leave a message and we will call you back.
Hawk Conservancy Trust, Visitor Centre, Sarson Lane, Weyhill, Andover, SP11 8DY
HEARING LOSS typically develops gradually, making it easy to dismiss early warning signs. You might find yourself thinking, 'Everyone mumbles these days,' or 'The sound quality on TVs isn't what it used to be.'
Here are common signs that it might be time for a hearing assessment:
• Do You frequently ask people to repeat themselves?
• Do You turn up the TV or radio volume higher than others prefer?
• Do You struggle to follow conversations in noisy environments?
• Do You find phone conversations difficult to understand?
• Do You mishear words or respond inappropriately in conversations?
• Do You feel exhausted after social events from the effort of listening?
• Do Family members comment that you don't hear them calling?
• Do You avoid group conversations or social situations?
• Do You struggle to hear children's or women's voices?
• Do You miss sounds like birdsong, doorbells, or timers?
• Do You experience ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus?)
If several of these sound familiar, a comprehensive hearing assessment can provide clarity and, if needed, open the door to solutions that will help you reconnect with the world around you.
Beep-beep. The car behind was tooting its horn.
“If I’d gone on amber, he’d have been jumping the red!” Himself was indignance personified.
“I know…”
“And if he’d jumped the red and met oncoming traffic on the single lane, then what would he have done? Engage his Pegasus engines and make like a Harrier jump jet?” Himself was cross. She knew the signs; the tips of his ears had taken on a crimson tinge.
“Unlikely...” Soothingly, she patted the hand that rested on the gearstick. The light turned to green and they duly negotiated the roadworks and reached the High Street. Himself’s ears had resumed their usual hue as he turned to her and said, “You’re very quiet. Are you alright?”
“Yes, I was just thinking about the couples’ Valentine’s quiz. We’ll be OK if there’s a whole round on your speciality subject: ‘Rolls Royce military aircraft engines from WWII to 1959’, but it’s a tiny bit specific and a little unlikely. Sorry Darling.”
“That’s a shame.” Himself looked crestfallen.
“But there is a Mr & Mrs round. I think we’ll do really well at that. We know all there is to know about each other after all these years.”
“Are you sure you wouldn’t rather have a romantic dinner à deux instead of going to a pub quiz?”
“No thank you, besides, I think it’ll make a nice change.” Over the years, they’d eaten out on Valentine’s night many times; a tale of stressed kitchens and glum couples in silence. Worst of all was the hard sell at your table; apparently nothing said ‘Be Mine’ like an over-priced red rose in a plastic tube. “Time to mix it up,” she said as they braved the shops. They’d agreed upon no sentiment-filled cards and no expensive blooms for each other for Valentine’s day – but in their quest for a birthday card and some non-romantic flowers for a friend, they were presented with a red sea of hearts and roses.
“It’ll be fresh Spring colours and Easter eggs everywhere next week, once Valentine’s out of the way,” Himself muttered, rummaging amongst the bunches of red rosebuds to find a bouquet that didn’t scream ‘I Love You’.
“And I’ll be quite happy with that. Red’s my least favourite colour.”
“Is it?” She wondered how she didn’t know that about him, as she located a small corner of the card display crammed with all the non-Valentine
cards. Birth, Marriage, Get Well and In Sympathy jostled untidily for position with the Birthday cards. All life is here, she thought as she selected the only non-alcohol-related card for their tea-total friend. Nodding approval at the freesia and carnation bouquet Himself had selected, she said in passing, “She’ll love them. They’re beautiful and, like me, she doesn’t like roses.”
“Really?” Himself frowned. All these years, had he been oblivious?
“Yes, I thought you knew. You’ve never bought me roses and I’ve always appreciated that.” It gets worse, he thought – both oblivious and unromantic.
Valentine’s evening came complete with matching colds that put paid to their quiz. “Knowing us, we caught this during our foray to the shops. No pub grub for us - but feed a cold, my mum would have said, so we should eat,” she announced and they shuffled snuffily off to the kitchen to make some dinner.
Head and shoulders in the fridge she called out, “It’s probably just as well we didn’t go to the quiz, the Mr & Mrs round might have been a disaster.” She closed the fridge door. “Seems I don’t know you as well as I thought. Since when have you disliked red?”
“Always. And I didn’t know you didn’t like roses.”
They looked at each other appraisingly and with fresh eyes. Just for a moment they returned to a time when she knew nothing about him, nor he her.
“Well, that was exciting,” she said, “we thought we knew all there is to know about each other. And we didn’t - but now we do. We’ll have another shot at the quiz next year.”
Himself agreed. “Aha! Well, knowing you as I do, there are some Roses of the Cadbury variety that I’m confident you love.” Withdrawing a hand from behind his back, Himself produced a box of chocolates.
“Aha! And knowing you as I do, there’s something red of the meat variety that I’m certain you love as well,” she said as she unwrapped a large piece of steak.
Over dinner, Himself gazed into her eyes and confessed, “I don’t like roses either. Maybe that’s the real reason I never bought you any.”
“No way! Well, now I think about it, I’m not a fan of red myself...”
This Trust is carrying out a survey to find out what patients think about our urgent and emergency care. This survey is part of the national CQC survey programme to improve quality of care and patient experience. We will work with our staff and patients to use the feedback from this survey to help improve patient’s experiences of the care we provide.
Patients aged 16 years and over who have received care from our Minor Injuries Unit at Andover War Memorial Hospital or Urgent Treatment Centre at Basingstoke in January and February 2026, and our emergency departments at either Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital or Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Winchester in February 2026, they may receive a survey asking questions about their experience. They will be asked about various aspects of their care, including waiting times, the quality of care and treatment, tests, discharge, medications and information.
An external survey contractor, Picker, is administering the survey on behalf of the Trust as an approved contractor for the CQC survey so that people’s responses are anonymous. Obtaining feedback from patients and taking account of their views is really important for bringing about improvements in the care we provide and understanding what really matters to our patients.
Taking part in the survey is voluntary and all answers are confidential.
If you do not wish to take part, or have any questions about the survey please contact our PALS and Complaints team on 01256 486766 or via palsandcomplaints@hhft.nhs.uk
More information about the survey is available at https://nhssurveys. org/received-a-questionnaire/
Stuck in a rut with your healing or recovery? Are you missing a key component?
When you embark on a recovery journey, be that after an acute injury or resolving chronic pain, there are three important components that must be addressed for healing and recovery to occur.
1. Treatment course and body awareness
2. Environment modification
3. Exercise and movement plan
All 3 components need to come together to create the optimal healing conditions for the body. Effects of treatment will not ‘hold well’ without changes made to how you move your body outside of the treatment room, or strength gains will be less effective if they are not integrated into daily life, and without modifying your environment you are not removing the possible triggers to pain or poor body alignment. What I am aiming to highlight is that in most cases you cannot rely on anyone of these components alone, or if you do, the probability of incomplete or very slow healing is likely and relapses can also occur. Recovery can often look like slotting multiple jigsaw puzzle pieces together to create the full picture!
Osteopathy highlights body asymmetries and alignment issues that have become symptomatic or prevent full healing, and treatment helps to restore balance by releasing areas of tension, stimulating the circulation and drainage, reducing central nervous system sensitivity and improving organ motility. Completing a course of treatment is vital in developing your body awareness (awareness takes time and needs lots of reminders!), stimulating consistent change within the tissues and supporting you with a progressive exercise and movement plan.
Environment Modification
In many cases your working or home environment needs to change in order to remove the predisposing and maintaining factors to your aches and pains. Key areas to consider are desk set up, driving seat position, saggy sofas, work surface heights, mattress and pillows and phone/iPad usage. Some of these maybe already be set up well, so do you need to include more movement breaks or do you need to create a more versatile space so you can move, even while you work?
Have you considered a 3-station working environment? Perhaps a standing area (could even be your laptop on an ironing board or window ledge if at home), sitting desk and an area to pace, swing or sway while you’re on the phone. In the evening or at relaxation times avoid dumping yourself into the black hole of your sofa, consider floor sitting on stacks of comfy cushions where you can cycle between lots of body nourishing positions.
Very few of us need to move less! Our environment is usually set up for convenience, comfort and rest, and to help us expend the least amount of energy possible. This leads to weakened and wasting musculature, bone density loss, stagnant and inflamed systems and even brain fog and mental fatigue. So part of an effective recovery plan is to integrate an individualised and progressive exercise program. This doesn’t have to look like a lycra-clad, daily gym sweat-sesh, but starting with where you’re at and with what you will enjoy and is convenient is the plan.
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 throughout the Test Valley, contact us today 01264 310 888 andover@bluebirdcare.co.uk
The key ingredients to any plan must include:
• Some form of resistance training, think bands or weights, 3x/weeks
• Daily light cardio such as walking, dancing, cycling, swimming, housework or gardening, for at least 20-30 minutes
• And 1-2x/week some short bursts of high intensity, harder cardio, such as short sprints (bike, row or run), jumping or skipping for 10-15 minutes
All our plans can be adapted to whatever set up you have, be that at home, in the office or in a dedicated exercise space, with no expensive kit or fancy clothes required!
I haven’t mentioned nutrition in my 3 components, but it does have a very important part in supporting healing, recovery and reducing inflammation too, so please also consider this if you know that you need help in this area and we can incorporate the necessary support into your program.
Have you now identified the absent link in your recovery journey? Let us know if you need help filling in the missing puzzle piece and achieving your goals.
Visit the website for an at-home action plan that you can print and tick off the daily and weekly steps to take for faster recovery. For additional guidance, you can visit our website to access a comprehensive at-home action plan. This printable checklist will help you keep track of your daily and weekly steps, making it easier to stay consistent and accelerate your recovery. Simply tick off each activity as you complete it to monitor your progress and stay motivated.
Emma Wightman www.the-sop.com
in women’s health, sports and paediatrics.
newborns, through to adulthood and in
King John’s House and Museum have been awarded a grant of £5000 by the Pilgrim Trust. The Trust funds smaller charities focussed on preserving the UK’s Heritage. The Grade-1 listed medieval Hall suffered severe fire damage in February 2025. It is currently undergoing major conservation works under the guidance of conservation architects Caroe Architecture.
Dr Freddie Law-Turner, Chair of Trustees, said ‘We are delighted with this grant, which will be used to fund a Statement of Historical Significance. This is a vital document that explains why a building is important and guides decisions for conservation and restoration. Alongside Romsey Abbey, King John’s House is one of the two most important buildings in Romsey. This will form a key part of our strategy going forward and will underpin our masterplan for this historic site.
King John’s House and Museum [KJH] comprises three unique historic buildings. Foremost is King John’s House itself, a Grade I listed medieval building named after the infamous King John of Magna Carta fame. It is believed to have originally formed part of Romsey Abbey. Alongside it is Tudor Cottage, a Grade II listed timber-framed building that reflects the charm of the Tudor period.
Finally, there is 13 Church Street, a Victorian home once owned by the Moody family, who operated a Gun Shop from the premises. In February 2025, a major fire caused extensive structural damage to King John’s House and smoke damage to Tudor Cottage. The Trustees of KJH are about to begin a significant restoration project, leading to the re-opening of this important site to the public.
Further Information
For information on the Pilgrim Trust please see: https://www.thepilgrimtrust.org.uk/ grants-awarded/recent-grant-awards/
For more details on King John’s House and Museum please see https://kingjohnshouse. org.uk/ or contact Jade Poulton, Museum Manager on info@kingjohnshouse.org.uk
In their first concert of their 2026 season, Stockbridge Music will welcome cellist Raphael Wallfisch and pianist
Simon Callaghan for a programme which includes several famous cello pieces as well as showcasing less well known works. The concert includes music by Bach, Beethoven, Bloch and Rachmaninoff.
There is a very moving story behind one of the works being played, Ernest Bloch’s Baal Shem. This piece will be played in memory of the victims of the Holocaust. Bloch composed Baal Shem in memory of his mother, and Raphael Wallfisch has chosen this piece because his own mother Anita Wallfisch Lasker is a survivor of the Holocaust, having been a prisoner at Auschwitz. She was spared the gas chamber only because she was considered to be of value playing the cello in the Auschwitz Camp Orchestra. Still alive today, her remarkable story was told in the 2024 documentary film The Commandant's Shadow.
Raphael Wallfisch is one of the most prolific recorded performers of cello music with over 70 discs to his credit. A BBC survey named Wallfisch’s recording of the Dvorak Cello Concerto the best recording of the work in the past 25 years. He regularly tours internationally and plays with many major orchestras including the London Symphony, London Philharmonic, BBC Symphony and the Hallé.
Simon Callaghan performs internationally as a solo pianist, chamber musician and recording artist. Recital partners have included Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Adrian Brendel, and Raphael Wallfisch. He is Professor of Piano at the Royal Northern College of Music. His playing has been widely acclaimed with BBC Radio 3’s Andrew McGregor saying: “I have nothing but praise for the performances... impressive pianism”.
The concert will take place at 7.30pm on Friday 12 March at St Peter's Church, Stockbridge. Tickets are available at www. stockbridgemusic.uk
It is sleek, kind on the eye and has an unmistakeable sound from his Rolls-Royce aero-engine. It is the most famous fighter aeroplane in the world, and it is is 90 years old on 5 March.
Supermarine’s Spitfire is a Hampshire bird. Designed in a period of rushing to re-arm for war, the Spitfire owes much to the development of racing seaplanes which won the coveted Schnieder Trophy for Britain in 1931. With total confidence in its Chief Designer, RJ Mitchell and his team of 150 engineers, technicians and draughtsmen, the Air Ministry ordered the first batch.
Development was brisk and the fighter was ready to fly on 5 March 1936 at Eastleigh aerodrome which had recently been renamed Southampton Airport. Not a moment too soon as war clouds were gathering. The Spitfire is synonymous with the nation’s victory in the Battle of Britain, the defence of Malta, the Italian campaign and every other place where British troops needed a support.
It is the only British aeroplane to have been in production from the beginning of the Second World War to the end. Over 20,000 were built at Southampton, Salisbury, Trowbridge, Reading, Swindon and Castle Bromwich. Such was the scale of the undertaking that subcontractors across the country were making parts and sub-assemblies.
In all, there were 24 marks, including specially adapted Seafires for the Fleet Air Arm, and 72 variants including floats and high altitude interceptors. It was flown by 30 nations during and after the war, including being the first aeroplanes of newly created air forces in Denmark and Norway. I shall be telling the story of the Spitfire at Goodworth Clatford Village Club on Friday 13 March.
Even with all international acclaim, there has never been a national memorial statue. Plans are now underway to change that with a mega structure at Mayflower Park in Southampton which will be the world’s largest stainless steel structure just low enough not to interfere with the airport’s flight line.
The National Spitfire Project aims to start initial work this year, and support is always well received. There is a JustGiving page were you too can contribute: https://www. justgiving.com/charity/nationalspitfireproject
We will buy your antique and quality vintage jewellery or gold watches.
We will also buy your unwanted or broken/damaged gold, silver or platinum jewellery.
Items we buy include:
• Broken/tangled gold or silver jewellery • Platinum & Palladium Jewellery
• Jewellery with missing stones • Gold Watches • Gold or silver coins (sovereigns, krugerrands etc)
• Single or pairs of gold or silver earrings • Old rings – wedding & engagement rings
• Certificated Diamonds
Best prices paid from people you can trust
Simply bring along your Items in to our shop for an instant, free, no obligation cash offer. You will need to bring photographic ID and proof of address (driving licence or passport & utility bill). Payment methods - Cheque - Bank Transfer - Cash - Part Exchange.
*Diamantina Jewellers reserve the right to refuse to buy any items offered to us.
Our other services include:
Our pieces are not only featured in-store but appear in popups all over the world. Our designs will not only inspire you, they will transform you.
We have a full range of jewellery repair and maintenance services. From cleaning and tightening to repairing breaks and resizing, our team can help you.
Nearly 200 New Forest commoners have gained practical skills and knowledge through a milestone series of livestock training events delivered by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, in partnership with Pilgrims vets.
Commoning is a practice that for centuries has helped shape the Forest’s landscape and sustain its internationally important habits.
The events programme is part of the charity’s ongoing work to support traditional commoning practices in the New Forest, reflecting the Trust’s long-standing commitment to both rural livelihoods and the protection of the internationally important habitats that commoning helps to sustain.
Rhys Morgan, Senior Land Advisor at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust said: “It’s encouraging to see how many commoners want to learn, adapt, and sustain this centuries-old tradition in a changing landscape.
“These events are not just about practical guidance, but also community connection, confidence and keeping a way of life alive in the forest.”
The free training events brought together local commoners, from those new to the Forest to long-standing families with generations of grazing knowledge. the Head of the Commoners Defence Association also gave updates at the events. Each session provides a space for learning, shared wisdom, and practical advice rooted in the realities of managing livestock on the open forest. All
took the opportunity to build their knowledge and confidence for grazing success in the modern New Forest landscape.
The first event, attended by 100 people, covered cattle care, breeding and fertility, what makes a good cow for the Forest, and the suitability of native breeds for grazing the unique open landscape. The second event, also led by local vet Alex Crook and attended by around 85 people, focused on cattle diseases.
Whilst an event for those interested in keeping pigs on the Open New Forest was also very well attended by New Forest commoners. The event provided very useful knowledge on the bi-laws for the forest and the requirements for the pigs to be allowed out for. Pannage (known as Common of Mast) when commoners’ pigs are marked and released onto the open forest to forage for fallen acorns, chestnuts and beech mast was also discussed. Pig ringing was also demonstrated to the group as this is a requirement for all pigs on the open forest.
Rhys adds: “I was pleased to see a good turnout for our first farmyard practical event, with people coming together to share knowledge.”
Tracé Cooper-Williams, Senior Nature Recovery Manager for the New Forest & Lower Test Valley at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust adds: “This work builds on 25 years of the Trust’s involvement in the New Forest. By supporting the commoning community, we’re helping sustain a way of life that underpins the Forest’s unique ecology.
“Our role is to ensure they have the advice, connection, and encouragement they need to keep doing what they do best - caring for this remarkable landscape.
“Commoning is a living tradition, it continues to evolve thanks to the passion, knowledge, and care of the people who practise it.”
The programme is funded by the Verderers of the New Forest through the Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) scheme, in partnership with the New Forest National Park Authority and Forestry England, with contributions from the Commoners Defence Association (CDA). The events are supported by the HLS scheme and the New Forest Land Advice Service (NFLAS), and feature updates from the CDA, helping to clarify emerging issues such as the transition beyond the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS), a key concern for many graziers.
The programme complements the Trust’s wider strategy to strengthen commoning in the Forest through training, peer-to-peer knowledge exchange, and close collaboration with local landowners.
This work aligns with the Trust’s facilitation of the Southern Cluster. This three-year project involves 25 land managers and tenants across the southern parishes of the Forest, and focuses on collaborative approaches to regenerative farming and land management.
Together, these initiatives support both longestablished and emerging generations of commoners, that benefit both rural livelihoods and the Forest’s internationally important habitats.
For more information or to book future events, contact Rhys Morgan at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust: Rhys.Morgan@hiwwt.org.uk
When every lane, street & village matters. We’re your local property experts.
Our friendly, dedicated Stockbridge team has decades of experience living and working in the Test Valley, giving us detailed knowledge of each village and many of the houses. That local insight and our real passion for the area guide everything we do.
We’re a leading local estate agent for over 120 years A
Over 750 qualified people looking to buy
One point of contact from valuation to completion, keeping you in the picture
St Swithun’s Prep School is pleased to announce the appointment of its new Head of Sport, Kat Shoesmith, who brings nearly 20 years of teaching expertise across the UK and Malaysia.
Kat undertook her BA (Hons) in Physical Education at the University of Chichester and began her career at Grays Convent High School, an all-girls’ school in Essex, where she spent eight years as Head of Department. She later worked for seven years in Malaysia across two international schools - Garden International School and The Alice Smith School - teaching pupils from Early Years in prep through to Year 13.
Her own sporting background includes competitive gymnastics, regional level rugby at university and, more recently, adult netball in the Southampton Margaret Whittaker League.
Kat’s vision for sport at St Swithun’s Prep is a purposeful and positive culture. “My job is to inspire a generation who love being healthy and active through the medium of sport. I want girls to leave school with the tools and confidence to look after their health and wellbeing long after their school years.”
The new head of sport aims to strengthen the school’s already well-established sports provision. “My goal is a well-rounded curriculum that means girls are exposed to as many activities as possible,” she explains. “This way each student can discover a form of movement they enjoy, helping them build the foundations of a healthy and active life that is sustainable.”
St Swithun’s Prep believes participation in sport has long-term benefits for girls’ futures. Research shows that a significant proportion of female CEOs played sport in their youth (Forbes 2022) and we see sport as an opportunity to strengthen the future projection of each student, with a byproduct of essential life skills such as teamwork and resilience.
Reflecting on her approach to encouraging young girls to play sport, Kat says, “Don’t be afraid of failure – that’s where the magic happens.” She believes that failure is not falling but choosing not to get back up.
Liz Norris, Head of St Swithun’s Prep said, “We are delighted to have Kat championing
on Friday 13 March 2026. Find out more at: www.stswithuns.com/preschool-and-prepopen-days
St Swithun’s Prep School, Winchester, SO21 1HA T: 01962 835750 www.stswithuns.com
We warmly welcome families seeking places from our co‑educational Preschool through to Year 6. From Reception upwards, our Prep School offers an inspiring girls‑only environment in Winchester, Hampshire.
During the afternoon, you’ll meet our Prep School Head, Liz Norris, before enjoying an individual tour led by one of our current pupils.
Scan to book your place
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Book your driveway & garden tidy up - get ready for spring!
Hambrooks Garden Centre, Titchfield Driveway & patio cleaning or repairs
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Open Mon-Sat: 8am-4:45pm Sun: 10-4pm
Yet again, the National Garden Scheme has beaten the 2024 total of £3.5 million by an additional £300,000, making a Grand Total of Donations for 2025 of £3.85 million, to be distributed to Nursing, Caring and Health charities. This is all down to the generosity of our garden owners, our army of volunteers, and the general public for visiting our fabulous Open Gardens.
Do you feel that your garden is worthy of opening for the National Garden Scheme - or maybe you have a friend or neighbour. We look at many varied gardens - from vast Country Estates to small cottage gardens and everything in-between: from wildflower gardens to those manicured lawns. We would love to hear from you to arrange a visit. In 2027 we celebrate our Centenary. That will be a very special year to be involved with the National Garden Scheme. The NGS takes care of all the advertising, and whilst a garden is open you have fully comprehensive insurance - there is no age limit for cover for volunteers.
And so to kick off our Open Gardens for 2026 - our Snowdrop Gardens - Opening in February:-
Bramdean House
Bramdean, Alresford, SO24 0J
Opening: Sunday 8 February from 1.30pm to 3.30pm
Admission: £7.00 children free. Cashless Payments available. Refreshments: Tea, coffee & cake. Donations to Bramley Church https://findagarden.ngs.org.uk/garden/3145/bramdean-house
A Beautiful 5 acre garden best known for its mirror image herbaceous borders, with a fine collection of Snowdrops and Spring bulbs.
Little Court
Crawley, Winchester, SO21 2PU
Opening: Sundays and Mondays 15, 16, 22 & 23 February from 2.00pm to 4.30pm Pre-booking available. Admission: £6.00 children free. Cashless Payments available. Refreshments: Homemade teas in the Village Hall in aid of the Village Hall Trust. https://findagarden.ngs.org.uk/ garden/8167/little-court
A sheltered, naturalistic garden with year-round interest, especially memorable in spring. Mature and exuberant, with a large plant collection and a traditional walled kitchen garden. Rustic seats throughout, good views, and described as 'an oasis of peace and tranquillity.' Sorry, no dogs.
ALSO: Open By Arrangement for Groups and Societies from 14 February to 5 July. Contact Owner for details and to arrange date and time. 01962 776365 or: elk-sic@btinternet.com.
The Down House
Itchen Abbas, SO21 1AX
Opening: Wednesday and Thursday 18 and 19 February from 1pm to 4.30pm. Admission: £12.00 (Includes Home-made teas) Children Free.
Refreshments: Included for FebruaryPre-Booking Essential: Book online on the garden link below https://findagarden.ngs.org.uk/ garden/21395/the-down-house
A 2 acre garden laid out in rooms overlooking the Itchen Valley, adjoining the Pilgrim's Way. In winter come and see garden structure, snowdrops, aconites and crocus, plus borders of dogwoods, willow stems and white birches. There is a new wildlife pond and sustainable garden, yew-lined avenue and walks in adjoining meadows.
ALSO: Open By arrangement for Groups or Societies of 10+ From 16 February to 27 February. Contact Owners 07814 958810 or markstephenporter@gmail.com I wish everyone a happy and healthy 2026.
Pat Beagley (Head of Publicity) pat.beagley@ngs.org.uk
National Garden Scheme - Hampshire www.ngs.org.uk
All building work undertaken
New Rooms, Garages | Patios | Conservatories | Lime Mortar work
No deposit required | Free estimates | Staged payment plan | Small works contract | Fully insured
Are you planning an extension, renovation or alteration?
m Mark: 07973 268336
m Mark: 07973 268336
k mark@mp-buildingservices.co.uk
1 www.mp-buildingservices.co.uk
k mark@mp-buildingservices.co.uk 1 www.mp-buildingservices.co.uk Andover, Basingstoke, Romsey, Stockbridge & Winchester
Please call or email me to discuss your proposed project
m Mark: 07973 268336
k mark@mp-buildingservices.co.uk 1 www.mp-buildingservices.co.uk
The latest art exhibition arriving at The Gallery in The Arc, Winchester is Yinka Shonibare CBE RA: Patterns of Power. The exhibition will run from Saturday 14 February to Wednesday 3 June.
A selection of artworks spanning 20 years of the artist’s career, including 40 woodblocks and screenprints, and featuring The Crowning (2007), a large-scale sculpture on loan from the Arts Council Collection. This witty, sumptuous piece, shows the critical crossexamining of contemporary and historic sensibilities for which Shonibare is famed.
Shonibare is a Royal Academician and internationally acclaimed artist who explores and confronts history and identity, often through the lens of art history and its figures of cultural power. In reference to complex relations between Africa and Europe, the artist reworks his signature motif of Batik fabric, itself a product of coloniality, into gripping and playful mixed media works.
Tickets: Adult £5.45, Concession £4.50, Under 16s £4.00
Step into Vincent's vivid world as immersive experience Van Gogh Alive comes to Winchester Science Centre. The most visited multisensory experience in the world, Van Gogh Alive sees the artist's masterpieces come to life, giving you the sensation of being within his paintings. Van Gogh’s works have been exhibited and admired for over a century. But never like this. In a feeling that is simultaneously enchanting, entertaining and educational, you will find yourself interacting with art in ways never imagined.
Van Gogh Alive will take over the planetarium dome. Through the play of light, colour and sound, discover how technology transforms the way we see and feel. Experience how your senses respond to changing light and motion, revealing the hidden science behind the beauty that inspired Van Gogh’s most iconic works.
Visitors will be transported through Vincent Van Gogh’s world, from the Netherlands to Arles, Saint Rémy and Auvers sur Oise, surrounded by over 3,000 stunning images of his most famous works, including Starry Night, Sunflowers and The Bedroom, all set to a powerful classical score.
Book now for an unforgettable journey. Tickets: £30. Tickets availabel from: https:// www.vangoghalive.co.uk/
Discover the magic of train travel with our very own magicians! Be spellbound by our shows at the Old Goods Shed in Alresford and wonder at the close-up tricks and entertainment on board our service trains. Enjoy learning how the magic becomes reality to make our locomotives move.
While on board enjoy the scenery of the South Downs National Park. Children will be provided with activity sheets to entertain them on the journey and our magician will amaze you with some close up tricks.
Activities run from 10.30am-4.30pm
Helios artwork by artist Luke Jerram is coming to Winchester for the first time to brighten up your year. Visit Winchester Cathedral to marvel at its beauty or join one of the many events and activities that will be taking place in the sunshine, from pilates and musical performances to silent discos and after hours viewings. The exhibit will be in place from the beginning of February until Sunday 1 March 2026.
'The imagery for the artwork has been compiled using approximately 400,000 photographs of the Sun provided by Astrophotographer Dr Stuart Green (taken between May 2018 to June 2024) and NASA observations of the Sun, with guidance from solar scientist, Professor Lucie Green of University College London (UCL). The sculpture also features the source of the solar flares which caused the Northern lights to be visible from the UK in May 2024'.
Luke Jerram
Tickets: Event accessible with standard entry fee to the Cathedral. Standard entry to see the Sun is included with an annual pass.
Tickets from £14 for more information and to book visit: https://watercressline.co.uk/ special-days/magic-of-locomotion/
We are delighted that the Railway 200 Inspiration train is visiting The Watercress Line on the 19 -20 February, as part of it’s tour of Britain. Tickets to Inspiration are free, but visitors must buy a Magic Of Locomotion ticket to be able to book an Inspiration time slot.
For more information visit: watercressline. co.uk/special-days/magic-of-locomotion/
A Class Roofing and Construction Ltd (A Class Roofing) is an established roofing and construction business. We have been established, well known and well credited business and between us have more than 100+ years of roofing experience.
We are a fully licenced and insured roofing business and perform our work with pride, safety and professionalism. We appreciate how important your home or business is to you and therefore we ensure our work is given the same care and attention as we would complete if we were performing on our own property.
We pride ourselves with our customer service, health and safety knowledge, and our attention to detail. We will always try to ensure that any work is a "stress-free" project from start to finish for our clients.
Please do contact us if you wish to discuss any roofing needs further or have a query in mind. We are always more than happy to help.
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
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A delicious, nutritional recipe from the best selling book, 'The Road from Karachi'. An ideal main for those colder evenings. Serve with chapatis or boiled rice.
• 1 tin of chickpeas in salt water
(or any vegetable chopped in small bite-size pieces).
• 1 tsp of each of:
Cumin powder
Cumin seeds
Chilli powder
Coriander powder
Turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp Garam masala powder
• A pinch of salt
• 2 medium onions sliced
• 1 inch of fresh ginger
• 6 cloves of garlic
• Half a tin of tomatoes
• A small bunch of fresh coriander
Step 1: In a pan add 2 tbsp of sunflower oil and toast 1 tsp of cumin seeds. Step 2: Then add the sliced brown onions. Add 2 tbsp of water when the onions have fried a medium brown in colour.
Step 3: Grate an inch of ginger and thinly slice 6 cloves of garlic and add to the onions. Add 1 tbsp of oil and stir for 5 mins then add 2 tbsp of water, and stir.
Step 4: Add all the spices and salt. 1 tsp of each spice apart from 1/2 tsp of Garam masala and salt to your taste. Add the quantity of chilli powder and salt to your taste.
Step 5: Add half a tin of chopped tomatoes into your pan.
Step 6: In the sauce, you can now add the chickpeas.
Step 7: Cook on a medium heat for 10 mins then simmer for another 5 mins.
Step 8: Add half of the fresh coriander and stir in when the chickpea is tender or the main ingredient of your choice is cooked and tender.
Step 9: Garnish your curry with fresh coriander.
Serve with chapatis or boiled rice.
Trying to make the most of your money is no easy task. Researching your options, understanding the details, and putting a plan together can be time consuming and complicated.
This is where a skilled financial planner can prove invaluable. They can help you in several key areas:
• Pensions and retirement planning: understand how much you need for a comfortable retirement and create a resilient, tax-efficient plan aligned to your long-term ambitions.
• Inheritance and estate planning: carefully analyse your long-term needs and your succession plan to align the distribution of your assets according to your wishes.
• Financial protection: safeguard your family, loved ones, and business interests.
• Investing: helping you make your money work harder with expert investment management.
To create a financial plan that gives your ambitions the best chance of success, working with a skilled financial planner is crucial. They have the expertise to consider your circumstances and create a personalised plan built around your values and goals.
They’ll ask about your family, career, lifestyle and property to understand your life and priorities. Using cashflow modelling, they can use this information to make specific recommendations and answer big questions such as:
• How much is enough to retire?
• How can I protect my family wealth for successive generations?
• How much should I gift – and when and how?
• How do I secure financial support for my family when I’m no longer around?
financial planning process
A financial planner’s approach is typically a straightforward, step-by-step process:
1. Getting to know you: spending time understanding your goals and objectives to inform a personalised plan.
2. Examining your options: analysing your situation and providing a detailed recommendation.
3. Agreeing the plan: discussing the plan with you and ensuring you understand and are comfortable with the approach.
4. Putting the plan into practice: implementing the agreed-upon plan, taking the administrative burden away from you.
5. Reviewing the plan: discussing the plan with you annually to ensure it remains aligned with your goals and objectives.
By taking control of your financial future and seeking the guidance and ideas of a skilled financial planner, you can unlock the full potential of your resources to help you achieve your goals with confidence.
We live and work local to you. We would be delighted to help you and your family achieve financial clarity and stability.
Joy Moir Wealth
Manager
E: joy.moir@brewin.co.uk
Chris Barry Wealth
Manager
E: chris.barry@brewin.co.uk
46 Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8RY
T: 01962 798000
W: 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. Forecasts are not a reliable indicator of future performance. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy.
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
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is
By Yinnon Ezra MBE
Recently HMG asked local authorities if they wanted to postpone their planned election in May - already postponed - for another year. Our local politicians debated this and concluded that it would not be good for democracy hence have fed back to Whitehall that they would like the elections to go ahead. If this sticks there will be elections this coming May for the County Council and some Districts, next May will see the election to the “shadow” new Unitary Councils and the year after the election for a Mayor for Hampshire and the Solent – with the new Councils in full swing.
The debate about the future shape of local government in Hampshire including the election of a Mayor has not really got the heart racing. Hopefully as many people as possible have responded to the consultation on what shape the new Unitary Councils will take. I may be wrong , but I fear that there has not been an overwhelming response. As for the elections, generally, unless local government elections fall on the same day as a General Election only between 30% to 40 % of voters go out and mark their cross.
On the issue of engaging people in the debate about local government reorganisationsfor most people as long as the dustbins get emptied, the schools keep going, the parks remain open as do the libraries and the potholes eventually get filled etc. etc. there is little or no interest about who is responsible. The current debate about the geographical shape of the new Councils has seen a little more debate as besides people being wary of change most remain loyal to the closest set up to where they live. We now await a pronouncement from HMG as to the geographical shape of the new all singing and dancing Councils.
Some argue that this string of elections although being worthy, in practice, may see a steady decline in voter participation. Hopefully the political parties will make a real effort to ensure the word gets out to all corners on the County. Also, that they offer a coherent vision of what and how they would run the new Councils. These new Councils will be with us well aften the next general election hence just “name calling” or “blaming the Government of the day” will not be enough. As illustrated by the evidence of Councils recently elected, they have found
when they get into power there are really difficult matters that need tackling; like remaining solvent, the rising costs of social care and ensuring that those services that make a real difference to the quality of life are not slashed even more.
In the end all this change depends on the quality and the commitment of individuals. It is vital that the Councillors that we elect have a good blend of new enthusiastic people and those with experience and knowledge. Setting up new bodies is an opportunity to think creatively about how services are delivered and a chance to tackle the “same old same old”. It will be the hard-pressed Council staff that will have to do all this – including organising election after election. Some may decide it’s the right time to jump ship others will relish the challenge. But please spare a thought for how they must feel as this process grinds on.
Resilience and focus on getting this right must be at the forefront of how all the political parties in our beloved County face these elections. The throwing of tired political slogans will not be enough.
