Welcome to our first magazine of 2017. I hope it’s not too late to wish you a Happy New Year. This month, rather like a passionate love affair, we have gone a little crazy, and published 6 pages of Valentine’s gifts. Apologies if Valentine’s day is not for you, but at least we can be reminded of all our wonderful local retailers, and the range of products they sell throughout the year. Who knows what 2017 will bring at home or abroad, but whatever happens, please continue to think local before you buy any goods or services. One subject that causes constant discussion, even controversy, is the country’s housing stock and on p.16, John Worsey talks about the future of the rental sector in Portsmouth, while Neil Maxwell keeps us updated on property sales, p.12. Meanwhile, February may be the shortest and one of the coldest month’s of the year but we have found more events than ever to tempt you outside - see our What’s On listings from p42 to p52. Kevin John Dean
