MARCELLA HOUSE. Helping People With Mental Health Problems

MARCELLA HOUSE Helping People With Mental Health Problems Hythe Pier Totton Meet & Greet Club New Mobility Aids Service Air Ambulance Christmas Events Competitions

2 New Forest Messenger CONTENTS Your Voice In The Forest Here we are again, the last Messenger of the year, and we are all wondering where this year went! I am delighted that word is spreading about our magazine and I hear lots of compliments about it. Copies disappear quickly from the outlets. We are now in more than 20 New Forest pubs, as well! I am very keen to put interesting articles in each issue and have some new ideas for next Spring which I hope will prove popular. Local artist Susan Kerrigan- Harris has donated a set of three of her pastel prints for the winner of the Winter Wordsearch. You can read all about her on page 9 and enter the competition on page 22. We also have a competition for those with young children in their lives: local author/illustrator Simon Chadwick is giving away a set of his picture books to one lucky person. See page 23. Our Facebook page has over 500 members and is still growing. If you can t find the magazine, download the latest copy from the website: newforestmessenger.co.uk I wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a special thank you to all my sponsors and to everyone who delivers and helps me to produce each issue. Kathy Baker Editor Marcella House 4-5 Hythe Pier 7 Portrait Of An Artist 9 Where Am I? 10 Mobility Aids Service 13 Oakhaven Hospice 13 Photo Contest 14 And The Winner Is... 15 Year-Round Bowls 17 Festive Events 19 Christmas Party 21 Competitions 22-23 Christmas Cards 25 Air Ambulance 27 Meet & Greet Club 29 In The Garden 33 Village Agents 33 Day Of Caring 35 Distribution Points 36 Competition Winners 37 Your Captions 39 Community Board 40 Published by New Forest Messenger, Business Mail, PO Box 300, Southampton SO45 9AW. Tel: 023 8019 2944 or 07774 545008 Website: newforestmessenger.co.uk Email: messengermag@yahoo.co.uk All content New Forest Messenger. Reproduction of any material, in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden without the prior written consent of the publisher. All material is sent at the owner s risk and, whilst every care is taken, New Forest Messenger will not accept liability for loss or damage. Design and layout by Ceratopia Ltd: ceratopia.co.uk Cover photo & page 2 photo by Cathy Anning

New Forest Messenger 3 Find Olly The Owl Competition In the Autumn issue of New Forest Messenger, Olly The Owl was spotted by a number of readers so their names were put in a hat and Mrs Pam Cole of Hythe was declared our winner of the 30 gift voucher. Olly is again hidden in one of the adverts in this issue of the New Forest Messenger magazine. To be in with a chance of winning: 1. State clearly the name of the advertiser and the page number you saw it on. 2. Please say where you picked up your copy of the New Forest Messenger. 3. Send your answer by email to: messengermag@yahoo. co.uk or by post to: Business Mail, PO Box 300, WIN 30 voucher Southampton SO45 9AW. The competition closes on February 10, 2018. Good luck!

4 New Forest Messenger YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT LOCKSMITH PVCu DOOR & WINDOW SPECIALIST LOCK PROBLEMS? We can help with ALL types of locks Fix or Replace Gain Entry Police Approved Key Safes All Work Guaranteed Fully Insured No Call-Out Charge No VAT 07453 327708 or 023 8089 7267 (24 HOUR SERVICE) Marcella House Making A Difference For People With Mental Health Problems By Hillary Mould-Ryan If you re living with a mental health problem, getting support with your wellbeing can help you cope with day-today life. Our friendly and welcoming Marcella House Wellbeing Centre in Hythe offers a busy programme of groups and activities. We help people learn new skills, support each other and learn techniques to improve and maintain their wellbeing. From Mindfulness and Worry Management, to Creative Writing and our Walking Group, we help people build on the five steps to wellbeing: Connect, Give, Notice, Be Active, Learn. You can see details of our latest New Forest activities at solentmind.org.uk/content/wellbeing Wellbeing is about feeling good on the inside and

New Forest Messenger 5 With mental health issues in the news recently I thought it would be a good time to highlight Hythe Wellbeing Centre, run by the registered charity Solent Mind. I heard about the centre from my GP, but you don t need a referral; you can contact the centre direct. Kathy Baker on the outside. It is something we all have and sometimes we need a bit of help to put us back on track. Everyone has their own way of dealing with the day-to-day pressures that life brings, whether it is baking, reading or playing sport. Each person is different, and that is what makes our Wellbeing Service so special. One service user said: Wellbeing is my lifeline. Going to Marcella House makes me want to leave the house and see the fantastic people I have met along the way. Solent Mind s Hythe Wellbeing Centre Marcella House, Jones Lane, Hythe SO45 6AW nfwreferrals@solentmind.org.uk 023 8084 1341

6 New Forest Messenger Unrivalled Quality at competitive prices Specialists in all blinds including Conservatory blinds Shutters Awnings Roman Wood Venetians Roller Vertical Pleated INTU Perfect Fit Your local family business with over 55 years experience Call for a free home design visit or advice 023 8084 0505 Unit 1 Trident Business Park, Shore Road, Hythe, Southampton, SO45 6GJ www.watersideblinds.co.uk

New Forest Messenger 7 Photos by Pat Waterman Hythe Pier & Train Together We Can By Peter King It has been almost a year since since The Hythe Pier Heritage Association was set up as a new community group. In the first instance our campaign was focussed on the immediate threat to the very future of the pier, train and ferry following the announcement by the former owners, White Horse Ferries, that unless a buyer could be found then the whole service would have to close. We resolved to set up a new charitable organisation to preserve and protect the pier and associated structures and to celebrate and share the history and heritage of this very special part of Hythe. Much has happened since then. With Blue Funnel completing the purchase of the ferry in April 2017, we gained a willing partner who wanted to work with the community to help us build a project that could deliver a long-term sustainable future for the pier and its unique pier railway. The community support has been amazing, with the SO45 Online lottery last Christmas, our 20 challenge in the Spring, our Walk The Planks event in August and Train Day just recently, which marked the centenary of the pier train locomotives (see photos). One of the most amazing and wonderful aspects of being involved in this project is that it really is all about connectivity. The pier, train and ferry are so special and unique in the way that together they combine to provide a connection through the historic transport link across Southampton Water. At the same time they provide history and heritage which also connects so many people in the community and far beyond. We have set out on our own journey to save Hythe Pier and I can say with growing confidence that: Together We Can.

8 New Forest Messenger NEW FOREST CARS We stock over 25 Quality Used Cars which have been Prepared to the Highest Standard RAC 82 Point Approved Preparation Check 6 Months RAC Warranty as Standard FREE 12 Months RAC Breakdown Cover RAC Accident Care Part Exchange Welcome Finance Packages Available All Major Debit & Credit Cards Accepted 57 Long Lane, Holbury SO45 2LG Open 7 Days a Week www.newforestcars.co.uk 023 8181 9121 07769 959981 We MOT Motorcycles, Trikes, Quads, Reliants, Cars & Light Commercials Free Local Collection & Delivery Courtesy Cars Available B s Garage Calshot Road, Calshot SO45 1BE Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm Saturday 8am - 1pm Willow TREE & GARDEN SERVICES All kinds of trees expertly felled with crown reduction, thinning and lopping, including all fruit trees pruned Root grinding Hedges trimmed Overgrown gardens tidied and cleared away Rotovating, turf laying and seeding All types of fencing Driveways regravelled All types of rubbish clearance Patios jet washed Mini digger available Fully insured Registered waste carrier References available on request No jobs too small or large For a free estimate call: 01794 323207 or 07811 970152

New Forest Messenger 9 Portrait Of An Artist Susan Kerrigan-Harris, a Marchwood-based artist, is donating a set of prints of her animal pastels as the prize for our Wordsearch Competition (see centre pages). This is her story. I have always loved drawing but failed miserably at art in school I don t like paint brushes! So, after painting horrors, I ve always stuck to plain old pencil. It s been my life s ambition to draw people but I never had the belief that I could. That is, until one Sunday five years ago when I woke up early determined to draw some cartoon characters for a maths game I was making (I used to be a teacher). I found a random image on the internet and had a go. I failed at drawing a cartoon but to my absolute joy I had drawn a realistic face! That was in 2012 and for four years I kept drawing in pencil I was happy and I was starting to get commissions. Then, for Christmas 2015, my sister gave me six pastel pencils, saying: I thought you could colour them in. I laughed but did so straight away in a tongue-in-cheek kind of way. She was encouraging and so I did a very childish drawing of a girl to prove to her that I didn t have a clue what I was doing! (If you want to see this drawing go to my website.) All her encouragement was enough to spark my interest and prompt a serious attempt at using pastel. That was two years ago and I haven t looked back since! I m totally in love with the qualities pastel pencils and pastel sticks can bring to my work; it s the perfect medium for people and animal portraits. I ve had a varied career from Glassblower to Design Engineer, from Teacher to Artist and I really feel that making a dream a goal can turn it into reality. Today I m a professional artist with an order book of portrait commissions. My next goal is to start tutoring and demonstrating. I have dyslexia and there is an assumption that we are naturally gifted in art but it has taken a lot of practice, persistence, encouragement and belief. SKH Portraits - Personalised Artwork Of Your Loved Ones Tel: 07740 282399 Website: skhportraits.co.uk

10 New Forest Messenger Win Afternoon Tea For Two courtesy of Waterside Blinds How well do you know our local area? Do you recognise the place in this photograph? You could win Afternoon Tea For Two at a local venue by entering this competition, sponsored by Waterside Blinds. To be in with a chance of winning, simply let us know Where Am I? the name of the location in this photograph and send your answer, along with your name and contact details, by email to: messengermag@ yahoo.co.uk or by post to: New Forest Messenger, Photo by Cathy Anning Business Mail, PO Box 300, Southampton SO45 9AW. Please let us know where you picked up your copy of the magazine. The competition closes on February 10, 2018. Did You Recognise Lyndhurst High Street? Our winner of the Autumn issue competition was Mrs N. Wilkins of Blackfield. Mrs Wilkins wins Afternoon Tea For Two at a local venue, courtesy of Waterside Blinds.

New Forest Messenger 11

12 New Forest Messenger Bespoke orders are our speciality Based in Marchwood, we have been established for more than 20 years, providing a bespoke flower service for birthdays, weddings and funerals. Carol: 023 8066 3717 or 07788 561 734 www.abcflowersandballoons.co.uk E Irons Gas, Plumbing & Heating Friendly professional service Installations, Repairs & Servicing Domestic, Commercial & Catering Appliances T: 023 8087 9533 M: 07894 946 407 E: eirons@eddie-i.net Gas Safe No: 558676 MCT Electrical For all your electrical requirements Extensions and new builds Full or partial rewires Consumer unit replacements Additional sockets and lighting points LED lighting installed External lighting and power sockets Hot tub supplies installed For a free no obligation quotation please call Mike: 023 8048 0818 07796 710581

New Forest Messenger 13 New Mobility Aids Service Growing Support Oakhaven s volunteer gardeners were looking for a couple of large planters and plants to brighten up the hospice garden outside The Coates Centre. Fairweathers of Beaulieu s Plant Area Manager, Sue Greaves, said: As a regular supporter of Oakhaven Hospice, we were asked if we could provide pots and plants for a north-facing area of their gardens. We chose camellias, gaultheria, heucheras, ferns and pansies. We hope that the pots and plants will be a delight for everyone. The British Red Cross in Hampshire has launched a new free service to deliver mobility aids to people living in the New Forest. The Balfour Project is an extension of the charity s Mobility Aids Service, which provides short-term loans of mobility equipment which can be collected from a number of local Red Cross depots. Thanks to funding from the Balfour Trust, Red Cross Trusted Assessors can now make homevisits in the New Forest. To find out more about the Balfour Project, email balfour@ redcross.org.uk or call 07808 204537. Managed by Places for People Leisure Ltd working in partnership with Test Valley Borough Council. #getactive Being a mermaid. BEAT THE QUEUES BOOK FAST TRACK SWIM TICKETS ONLINE www.placesforpeopleleisure.org Romsey Rapids Sports Complex 01794 835550 Free game of Adventure Golf with every Fast Track booking. Whatever place you're into A maximum of 2 children are permitted per adult (16+). Get the Places Locker fitness app

14 New Forest Messenger For Quality Fencing & Gates RYAN FENCING All types of fencing carried out. Closeboard with concrete posts specialists. For a prompt, professional service, call: 07769 706516 or 023 8084 1203 Photo New Forest Rivers, Streams or Beaches is the theme for this issue s photography competition. The prize for our favourite photograph is a 50 gift voucher, sponsored by Ryan Fencing Limited. Send in your photos before February 10, 2018, and our favourite Contest WIN 50 GIFT VOUCHER SPONSORED BY RYAN FENCING images will be featured in the Spring issue. Please email no more than two photos each to messengermag@ yahoo.co.uk. Private Hire Services Jameson Private Hire is ideal for business, family or group travel when you want something a little special, whilst still at a competitive price. Think of us for: Airport Transfers - reliably driven from Southampton to Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted and all South of England Regional Airports Business meetings and events - travel in style and comfort Wedding Guest Transport - ideal for the bridesmaids too Event Transfer - let us take you to Royal Ascot, Glorious Goodwood, Wimbledon Holiday Travel - we have loads of space for that luggage Days Out - travel in style, forget the stress of parking (London, Hampton Court, Brighton...) 07721 896 411 023 8084 2305 Hedge trimming Grass cutting Turfing Patios Planting Weeding Landscaping Fences Call Dominic Bottrell for a FREE quote. All work guaranteed. All waste removed and disposed of correctly. Fully Insured t 023 8089 7263 m 07956 346183

New Forest Messenger 15 And The Winner Is... Here are our favourite pictures sent in for the Issue 9 photography competition, entitled Colours of Autumn. Our winner, Barry Armstrong, receives a 50 gift voucher, kindly donated by Ryan Fencing Limited. Left: Our favourite image, sent in by Barry Armstrong. Clockwise from above: Our runners-up, by Marie-Anne Breakspear, Emma Chalmers and Jan Sutton.

16 New Forest Messenger MONDAY BLACKFIELD QEII Hall, Thornbury Avenue 5:30 & 7:30 PJ 07862 727742 TUESDAY MARCHWOOD Village Hall 3:30, 5:30 & 7:30 Sue 07917 891196 FAWLEY Jubilee Hall, The Square 5:30 & 7:30 Alice 07709 837866 WEDNESDAY HYTHE St John s Church Hall, New Road 3:30, 5:30 & 7:30 Karen 023 8086 2990 TOTTON Totton & Eling Cricket Club, Southern Gardens 5:30 & 7:30 Sue 07917 891196 CALMORE Community Centre, Calmore Drive 5:30 New consultant in January 2018 ROMSEY Woodley Village Hall, School Road, 5:30 & 7:30 Nicola 07720 869024 We have vacancies for new consultants to join our team. Please call Emilie on 07817 968028 for more info. THURSDAY CALMORE Community Centre, Calmore Drive 3:30, 5:30 & 7:30 Emilie 07817 968028 HYTHE St John s Church Hall, New Road 9:30am & 11:30am Morag 07541 373469 DIBDEN PURLIEU Noadswood School, Water Lane 7pm New group starting in January 2018 WEST WELLOW Village Hall, Buttons Lane 5:30 & 7:30 Hannah 07887 764890 FRIDAY CALMORE Community Centre, Calmore Drive 9:15 & 11:15 Emilie 07817 968028 ROMSEY Scout HQ, Braishfield Rd, Braishfield 9:30 & 11:30 Jenny 07780 603884 HYTHE St Anne s Community Centre Warry s Close 9:30am PJ 07862 727743 SATURDAY TOTTON St Theresa Church Hall Beaumont Road 9:30am New consultant in January 2018 WATERSIDE New group starting in January 2018

New Forest Messenger 17 Bowl All Year Round At Totton & Eling Club Totton & Eling Bowls Club has an artificial green, which means members and visitors can bowl outside all year. In addition, Indoor Short Mat Bowling also takes place from October to the end of March. Two mats are down permanently for this period. The club runs two internal Short Mat club leagues on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons. The mats are available for casual bowling at other times, although booking is recommended. The club also holds social events throughout the Winter. Whether you have bowled before or would like to start you will be welcome to join. For more information please call 023 8086 8846. Parking Fees Car parking charges will increase in New Forest District Council s 51 car parks from January 2018. Colin Read, Operations Executive Head, said: It was back in 2012 when we last put up car parking charges. The hourly rate remains competitively priced compared with private car parks and other local authority charges. From January, one hour s parking will 1, while the Short Stay Parking Clock will be 25. Your local flooring and made-to-measure curtain store Specialising in all residential and commercial hard flooring Visit our Holbury showroom for quality carpet, stylish anti-slip vinyls and laminate flooring Superb range of fabrics from I-liv and Blendworth 53 Long Lane, Holbury 023 8089 8460 Stylish and practical design flooring in wood and stone effect finishes Including Karndean, Moduleo, Altro, Camaro and TLC 49 Long Lane, Holbury 023 8089 0005 Visit our showrooms or choose our free home selection/estimating service at a time to suit you Prompt expert fitting and free easy parking Opening times: Monday Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm, Saturday 9.00am to 4.00pm Email: info@watersidecarpets.co.uk

18 New Forest Messenger ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE A Good Old-Fashioned Butchers Shop By Kathy Baker On a sunny day in October I was invited to Bramshaw to visit Mike and Sarah Alexander at The Farmers Butcher shop on Swallowfields Farm. Mike and Sarah took over the business in March, realising their ambition of running their own Butchers. I have fond memories as a child of walking with my mum to the farm shop every week for our eggs, bacon, Sunday joint and most of all a chat! This way of life, I believe, is returning to our villages. Having the advantage of being on a farm, the shop can in most cases cut out the middleman; for example, Mike supplies restaurants with his wild boar, which are reared on the farm. He also cures all his own awardwinning bacon, rearing the pigs on his farm. Developing the retail side of the business is important to Mike and Sarah, so what better time than the present for a visit to the shop, as the Christmas order book is now open. I, for one, will be returning for the pork and marmalade sausages! Orders now being taken for Christmas, including Free Range Turkeys (See our website for details: thefarmersbutcher.co.uk) We make our own: Award-winning, dry-cured bacon Award-winning, hand-made sausages Award-winning faggots Swallowfields Farm, Bramshaw SO43 7JJ 01794 322686 thefarmersbutcher.co.uk We also sell: Local venison, partridge & pheasant Wild boar, pork & beef reared on the farm Noah s Ark free range chicken Creedy Carver free range duck We also offer Butchery Demonstrations and one-to-one Butchery Tutorials

New Forest Messenger 19 Merry Christmas Festive events in a village or community centre near you Hythe Mistletoe Fayre Festive fun in the village centre on Saturday, December 2, 10am-4pm. New Forest Christmas Fair Exbury Gardens, December 2 & 3, 10am-4pm. Local produce and gifts in a festive atmosphere. Adults 2, children free. Dogs welcome. Light Up A Life 2017 Remember a loved one and help Oakhaven Hospice. Monday, December 4, St Thomas Church, Lymington. Victorian Christmas At Beaulieu December 16 - January 1, National Motor Museum (entrance fees apply). Explore the Victorian Montagu family home, capturing how the occasion would have been celebrated in 1889. Craft workshops and carol singing. Children s Christmas Party Totton & Eling Community Centre, December 20, 4-6.30pm. Children s entertainer, party food, Father Christmas, presents for the children. Please book on 023 8086 3769. A deposit of 5 is charged. Postal Express Exbury Gardens is open on December 9-10 and 16-17, 10am-4pm. Free entry to the gardens, 6 per person for festive train ride. Santa Dash Festive race in aid of Oakhaven Hospice. Race starts at 11.30am on Sunday, December 10, in Lymington. Carol Singing Totton & Eling Community Centre, December 11, 1.30-4 pm, includes homemade afternoon tea, refreshments and guest singers. Members 3, nonmembers 4. Christmas Fayre Totton & Eling Community Centre, December 16, 11am-2pm. Tombola, stalls, raffle, refreshments and Father Christmas.

20 New Forest Messenger Willow Future Planning Power of Attorney ENSURE YOUR FUTURE DECISION-MAKING IS IN TRUSTED HANDS Professional, friendly advice on Lasting Power of Attorney in the comfort of your own home, without obligation. By taking out a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) you will ensure that someone of your choosing is in a legal position to manage your financial affairs on your behalf. We are a small team who can help you to decide if a Lasting Power of Attorney is right for you. We are offering a 10% discount on LPAs starting during January and February 2018. www.willowfutureplanning.co.uk Tel: 07827 472003

New Forest Messenger 21 Waterside Seniors Christmas Party Waterside mum Sarah Leanne Braithwaite (pictured, left) is once again planning a Christmas party for local seniors. The party is to be held at the Cornerstone Church in Hythe on December 16, from 12.20-2.30pm. If you would like to donate a raffle prize, help in any way or attend, please email: s.braithwaite@ hotmail.com. Hythe & Dibden Football Club Claypits Lane, Dibden SO45 5TN Avoid queues this Christmas by using Dibden Post Office Open Monday to Thursday 9am-1pm LAST POSTING DATES 2 December: Africa, Middle East 6 December: Cyprus, Malta, Asia, Far East, Eastern Europe (except Poland, Czech Republic and Slovakia) 7 December: Caribbean, Central & South America 9 December: Greece, Turkey, Australia, New Zealand 13 December: Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Poland 14 December: Canada, Finland, Sweden, USA 15 December: Austria, Denmark, Iceland, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland 16 December: Belgium, France, Ireland, Luxembourg 20 December: 2nd Class 21 Dec: 1st Class Contact Claire: 023 8084 0843

22 New Forest Messenger WIN SET OF THREE PRINTS By Susan Kerrigan-Harris PRIZE ABSTRACT ARTISAN ARTISTIC BAROQUE CUBISM Name Address Phone Number WORDSEARCH F B G D E M O R H C O N O M A O C I T S I T R A M D I C B C L B K P M H G L S N H B S I P K R L J S R K I N K M T T H C N T N G Q M B R C S R S D D B A S A A Z U T M I A I C Q S W N L E M C T H N C L I I K F I E S Y E A K R T A T M P S L I T W S X E E C R N G M R L A C G E A G D A U A H B A Z R A T L Y O O F T M S E X L P G I V H T M G A O R S H J S S T D Q H T D N R Q K N V M L D M N I S G U D B A R O Q U E J B C O S F C B F D E Z I L Y T S P Words may be hidden horizontally, vertically, diagonally or back to front FOLK GOTHIC MINIMALISM MONOCHROME NATURALISTIC POSTMODERNISM REALISM ROMANTIC STYLIZED SURREALISM To be in with a chance of winning any of these prizes, please complete and send these pages to: New Forest Messenger, Business Mail, PO Box 300, Southampton SO45 9AW. The competitions close on February 10, 2018.

New Forest Messenger 23 Lovely Picture Books Here s your chance to win a set of five of Simon Chadwick s New Forest children s picture books. Simon s books cover topics such as litter, the New Forest ponies and under-confidence, with memorable characters such as Beaulieu the Hedgehog. New Forest Friends & The Litterbugs has also featured as a story on the BBC and been endorsed by Chris Packham and Bill Oddie. You can find out more at www.ceratopiabooks.co.uk All you need to do to be in with a chance of winning these books is to rearrange these letters to reveal a New Forest creature! TANSHAPE Email your answer to: messengermag@yahoo.co.uk or enter all our Christmas competitions and post the completed pages to the address below left. WIN CHILDREN S BOOKS By Simon Chadwick WIN SCENTED CANDLE & TEA LIGHTS Caption Capers This picture of goats on a picnic table was taken by Cathy Anning. Send in your caption and our favourite will win a Peony & Linden Blossom Candle and Tea Lights. Email your caption to: messengermag@ yahoo.co.uk or enter all our Christmas competitions and post the completed pages to the address on the left. Caption:

24 New Forest Messenger Call for a free no-obligation quote Den Childs 07706 705 662 dchi.co.uk Bathroom design & installation Kitchen design & installation Tiling Re-grouting and silicone Painting and decorating Door Hanging Garden Decking Small job friendly Fully Insured

New Forest Messenger 25 The History Of Christmas Cards By Kathy Baker How many of us still send out Christmas cards, I wonder? I do. For me it has become a ritual whereby I set aside an evening with a glass of wine and my list and hope that I don t forget anyone! Have you ever thought about when this tradition actually began? It was in Victorian times, in 1843, when a British narrative painter called John Callcot Horsley designed the first card for Henry Cole, his friend and director of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. They were printed in Lithography by Jobbins of London and hand coloured. Very few were produced and they went on sale in London for a shilling each. There are only 12 of these cards in existence today in private collections; one sold in Sotherbys in 2010 for a vast sum of money. Queen Mary had a private collection of cards which are now in the British Museum. I like to send Charity cards these days and it won t be long before I am once again sitting down with that glass of wine knowing that I am helping to keep this age old tradition alive! Come and enjoy Exbury s winter delights A Host of festive Treats at Exbury Christmas Postal Express 6 per person for a festive train ride Free entry to the gardens Visit the Elf Workshop in our Tea Rooms No pre-booking available,make sure you arrive early (opening times 10am 4pm) Two fabulous festive weekends in December 9th/10th, and 16th/17th December For more information please visit: www.exbury.co.uk

26 New Forest Messenger We believe everyone deserves the right to high quality care The Private Ear Clinic can help with: Water Free Wax Removal Swim Plugs Managing Tinnitus Hearing Tests General Ear & Hearing Care We offer individual treatment sessions at The Private Ear Clinic, and we are committed to your full care, comfort and satisfaction. With over 40 years combined experience in ear health, we understand your needs and offer a service with the highest standard of care. We have clinics at: Romsey Hospital Milford on Sea War Memorial Hospital Waterfront & Solent Surgery, Hythe Lymington Hospital 07514 417 556 info@the-private-ear-clinic.co.uk Small Household Jobs The Handyman Van I can help you with your home maintenance! Plumbing Plastering Tiling Electrics Window cleaning Garden clean ups Do you have endless odd-jobs that you never seem to have the time, or perhaps the necessary equipment to do? From putting up curtain rails to hanging pictures, my professional service is designed to help you with all those jobs that you simply can't do yourself. Perhaps it s help with assembling the furniture, maybe it s some decorating, which you really just don t have the time to do so, and would like someone skilled and trusted to be able to undertake it for you? Whatever handyman service you require, at a minimum charge of just 30 minutes, my excellent skills and professional service is just what you need! The handyman services I provide are Electrics, Plumbing, Plastering, Tiling, Window cleaning, Small household jobs and Garden clean-ups. Call me on 07734 364830 or visit thehandymanvan.co.uk handymanvanuk @handymanvanuk

New Forest Messenger 27 Small Change, Big Difference By Melissa Hare Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance recently launched Small Change, Big Difference; a regular-giving campaign designed to provide a steady income to help secure the future of the Charity. Supporters are asked to make a monthly donation of 8, equating to 26p a day. HIOWAA Head of Income Generation Rachel Leaman said: Your small change will make a big difference to the future of your Air Ambulance. A regular donation of 8 a month, or 1p an hour, will give us an income we can rely on for a stable future. Over 2,000 visitors turned up at Thruxton Motorsports Centre on Saturday 1st July to join the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance 10th Birthday celebrations, raising over 5,000 for the charity. The sun shone as children enjoyed traditional fun fair rides, arts and crafts and circus skills, whilst live music played in the arena and the proud owners paraded their dogs at the first HIOWAA dog show. The celebrations marked 10 years to the day since Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance made its first operational flight. It currently costs in excess of 9,000 a day to keep the Air Ambulance flying and saving lives. As HIOWAA looks forward to a second decade of operations, and the Charity continues to evolve pre-hospital care to meet patient demand, daily operating costs will increase. The Charity must therefore continuously look at new ways to raise the money necessary to secure the long-term future of the Air Ambulance. HIOWAA will be promoting Small Change, Big Difference with eye-catching posters and videos featuring the faces of supporters matched to faces of the Charity Critical Care Team. We ve had some fun looking for everyday objects costing around 26p that we can use to highlight our campaign. We want our supporters to know that for the cost of a daily Curly Wurly, they could help the longterm future of their Air Ambulance, said Rachel.

28 New Forest Messenger KJ s Mobility Providing all aspects of domestic and commercial painting and decorating services Producing high quality paint and decorating finish to interior and external areas Advanced Craft City & Guilds qualified and trained within the decorating industry 023 8089 4554 07710 464093 mark@markparsonsdecorating.co.uk Repairs and servicing carried out on mobility scooters, wheelchairs and walkers. Local collection and return service available. Mobility scooters, wheelchair and triwalker hire available. Mobility scooters and batteries Wheelchairs Wheelchair & scooter covers Walkers Walking sticks Bathroom, shower, toilet, dressing, household & bedroom aids Cushions Rise & recline chairs Premiercare mobility scooter, wheelchair, stairlift, rise & recline chair insurance Range of wrist, knee, elbow and back supports Incontinence products Stairlifts 12 High Street, Hythe, Southampton SO45 6AH 023 8084 4886 kjsmobilityltd@gmail.com www.kjsmobilityltd.co.uk KJ s Mobility Situated within the Sunderland Hangar and with truly spectacular views the Café Bar at Calshot Activities Centre is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee, a wholesome, delicious meal or a snack. Draught and bottled beers, wines and soft drinks are available. PRE-BOOK OUR CHRISTMAS MENU (AVAILABLE NOVEMBER 27 - DECEMBER 22, MONDAY - FRIDAY ONLY) @CalshotCafeBar www.hants.gov.uk/calshot 023 8062 4729

New Forest Messenger 29 Totton Meet & Greet Club NEW FOREST By Kathy Baker Being alone is not just a problem for the elderly; many of us feel lonely at times. Last Spring, some of you may remember, I was planning to start a club for lonely people; this led me to a new club that had just launched in the area. Totton Meet & Greet Club was started by Katharine Spencer- Brown, who had found herself wanting to get out more but not knowing anyone to go out with. She decided to set up a club where members create Events they would like to do, then invite other members to go along. The best part of her idea (which certainly attracted me) was that for every event a member would be outside to meet and greet newcomers so that they didn t have to walk in alone. Since May the club has grown to more than 300 members and there are lots of events, from coffee mornings and dance classes, to music and quiz nights. A recent Handbag Sale raised 500 for Hampshire and Isle Of Wight Air Ambulance. The club would especially like more men to join. Find Totton Meet & Greet Club on Facebook or email: meetandgreetclub@yahoo. com. Katharine can also be contacted on 07516 892822 or at 53 Sylvia Crescent, Totton SO4O 3LP. Joining this group was one of the best things I ve done! Pick Up A Bargain At Charity Shops Age Concern New Forest has Charity Shops in Totton, Dibden Purlieu, Holbury and Blackfield where they have a range of good quality jewellery, bric a brac, books, DVDs, puzzles, ladies and men s clothes and Christmas decorations, cards and gifts. The charity relies on your donations, which help it to raise money so it can provide services such as Information & Advice, Waterside Good Neighbours, Befriending & Telephone Buddying, Footcare, Lunch Clubs and Computers At Home. Please drop any donations in to their shops. The charity is also grateful to recieve gifts of chocolates, biscuits and toiletries that can be used as raffle prizes at the Lunch Clubs. Please drop them in to their Office in Dibden Purlieu anytime between 10am and 1pm, Monday to Friday. Call 023 8084 1199 for information.

30 New Forest Messenger ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE Charisma of Fawley By Kathy Baker A few weeks ago I was invited by my friend Debbie Hill, the new owner of Charisma of Fawley, to take a look at the huge refurbishment of her new business. Many people are familiar with this local boutique as it has been in the village since 1993. However, since Debbie purchased the business on July 1 this year, there have been lots of changes and new lines added so I do encourage you to take another look, especially if you have a Christmas or New Year party coming up! Knowing the shop previously, I was stunned the moment I opened the door; beautiful chandeliers hang from the ceiling and the stunning silver and purple colour scheme looks modern yet elegant with opulent Rococo furniture and accessories to complement the Aladdin s Cave of stunning ball gowns, cocktail dresses, daywear and accessories. Charisma have just introduced prom dresses to their extensive collections and have an exciting competition for one lucky girl to win back the value of her prom dress. Designers include the amazing American label Ellie Wilde. Charisma of Fawley School Road, Fawley SO45 1EA Open 10am-4pm Mon-Sat (closed Wed)

New Forest Messenger 31 Debbie will shortly be introducing a new line of jewellery to complement the stunning handbags she has on display in time for Christmas. If you are looking for a special outfit, Debbie is at the other end of the phone to offer help and advice. It won t be long before the Spring stock of occasion wear, hats and accessories are in stock, and Debbie has introduced lots of new high fashion lines such as Rosa Clara and Badoo to complement the wellknown designers such a John Charles, Condici, Frank Lyman Gina Bacconi and Lizabella. So if you have a wedding, cruise, day at the races, prom or charity ball to attend, pop in to Charisma of Fawley to find the perfect outift. There is also an in-house seamstress to make the final adjustments to any piece that may require it. To keep up-to-date with new stock arrivals, follow Charisma of Fawley on Facebook. Phone: 023 8089 4500 Email: info@charismaoffawley.co.uk Website: charismaoffawley.co.uk

32 New Forest Messenger We offer a huge range of high quality products and professional service Windows Doors Conservatories Fascias FREE QUOTATION All work is guaranteed for 10 years and Certass Fenestration Registered 023 8087 9098 07717 753457 blueskywindows@live.co.uk LJM BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Self Employed/Small Businesses Chiropody Clinic at: First Floor, South Street Centre, South Street, Hythe SO45 6EB Lift available Free parking Home visits also available. SCP & HCPC registered DBS checked Clair Sparkes BSc (Hons) in Podiatry & Biology t 07863 396 856 w sparkesfeet.co.uk Bookkeeping to Trial Balance Computerised Accountancy Credit Control Preparation of Final Accounts for Sole Traders VAT Returns Self Assessment Tax Returns Payroll Holiday Cover can also be provided for hourly rate charged Contact Lynda on 07774 790543 ljmbookkeepingservices@gmail.com

New Forest Messenger 33 First Village Agent For Wellow Age Concern Hampshire has appointed a long-term local resident as its first Village Agent for Wellow. Hidden Miracle By Susie James Of Exbury Gardens According to Albert Camus, Autumn is a second Spring when every leaf is in flower while Luther Burbank said, Every gardener knows that under the cloak of Winter lies a miracle. As we traverse through these two seasons, the one thing they have in common is our natural desire to stay indoors, cosy up in front of the fire and look forward to the new year ahead. But far from being a reason to hibernate, Winter can actually be the perfect time to get ready for the year ahead and get some much-needed fresh air! Winter flowering plants can add a wonderful show of colour to your garden pots and pine cones are a lovely addition to a dining table or hearth. Make sure you dead-head Autumn-flowering plants and prune Summer-flowering shrubs before the first frosts begin. Adding all your cuttings and leaves to your compost bin will give your soil a fantastic boost when you dig it in during the Spring! Finally we must not forget all the wildlife that frequent our gardens, so fat balls, nuts, bread and other food will help them survive the Winter (and keep away other garden pests!) The Village Agent scheme, supported by Hampshire County Council, provides information and support to enable older people to maintain their independence and maximise their safety so that they may enjoy their later lives in their own homes and communities. Meic is a solicitor who is retiring from a distinguished career serving local authorities across the country. He has previously been a Scout Leader in Wellow as well as serving on the Wellow Village Hall and Wellow Twinning Association management committees. I m looking forward to loving my later life in Wellow, said Meic. I have a lot to learn about the services and support that are available so I will be able to learn from others who are in the same position as me and make that information well known to older people in the parish. To contact Meic, email: wellowvillageagent@gmail.com

34 New Forest Messenger Specialist Skin Clinic DermaQuest skin peels Derma-Roller Shellac Microdermabrasion Exclusive brands Joma Jewellery & Katie Loxton 023 8178 1811 185 Lyndhurst Road, Ashurst www.skinco185.co.uk Here if you need a hand in the garden: Grass and hedge cutting Pruning, weeding and border care Care of sheds and fencing Cleaning drives, patios and decking Everyday garden maintenance Call Mike: 07846 027258 Email: hursleymike@googlemail.com Need new dentures? FOUR SEASONS DENTURE CENTRE 1 HOUR DENTURE REPAIRS More than just a Dental Laboratory If you want the best quality dentures in a relaxed, friendly and professional environment then call today for a free consultation 023 8084 6443 07919 074360 North Road, Dibden Purlieu, Southampton SO45 4RE

New Forest Messenger 35 Day Of Caring More than 60 volunteers from ExxonMobil Fawley took a day out from their usual work schedules to help make a difference to four local good causes. The site s annual Day of Caring scheme now in its 12th year saw four teams carry out a variety of work at Brockenhurst College (below, right), Hythe Sea Scouts (right), Blackfield Baptist Church (above) and Manor Infants School, Holbury (below, left). The aim of the event was to provide manpower and skills to organisations which would otherwise struggle to carry out vital work or specific projects. Simon Downing, Fawley Refinery Manager, said: We were delighted to help these four worthy causes as part of Day of Caring. It s a great way to demonstrate our commitment to helping the community and to being a good neighbour.

36 New Forest Messenger New Forest Messenger Distribution Points Calshot/Fawley Calshot Cafe Fawley Village Hall Zebra Home Services New Forest Funerals Premier Express & PO Alam Spice Takeaway Royal British Legion Blackfield/Exbury Gang Warily Sports Centre Blackfield Bakery Priest Croft Exbury Gardens Holbury Easton Residential Snack Attack The Co-Operative Food Sandra s Florist Cambridge Diet Centre The Pet Shop Beaulieu Fairweathers Garden Centre Mettricks Tea & Coffee House Hollybank MasterSpares The Modern Chinese Takeaway Hythe The Grove Council Office Post Office Hythe & District Social Club Oakhaven shop St John s Hall Waters Green Hythe Library KJ s Mobility Waterside Tours Hythe Pier Community Centre Langdown Firs Lawrence House Homeborough House Seadown Vets Dibden Purlieu Arrosto Coffee & Ice WH Smith Local Joyners Age Concern The Lovely Little Cafe Heathlands Court St Andrew s Centre Muir House ShawFix Autos Dibden Clayfields Sports Centre Church Farm Close Marchwood Telephone Box Library Community Centre The Co-operative Food Totton Hanger Farm Arts Centre Goodies Fish & Chips West Totton Centre Totton & Eling Bowls Club The Library Totton Community Centre Totton & Eling Town Council Calmore Community Centre Three Score Club Testwood Working Men s Club Bartley Post Office Forest Pharmacy Cadnam Wyevale Garden Centre Copythorne Parish Hall Ashurst Post Office Minstead Village Shop & Tea Room Lyndhurst The Library Community Centre Wellow Carlo s Ices & Tearooms Bramshaw Village Stores Landford Wyevale Garden Centre Post Office & Stores Romsey Hillier Garden Centre World of Water Cafe The New Forest Messenger is now available to pick up from all these New Forest pubs: The Anchor Inn, Eling The Bold Forester, Marchwood The Bell Inn, Brook The Coach & Horses, Cadnam The Compass Inn, Winsor The Empress of Blandings, Copythorne The Forest Home, Holbury The Forest Inn, Ashurst The Gamekeeper, Woodlands The Green Dragon, Brook The Happy Cheese, Ashurst The Haywain, Bartley The New Forest, Ashurst The Old Mill Inn, Holbury The Pilgrim Inn, Marchwood The Roebuck Inn, Marchwood The Royal Oak, Beaulieu The Trusty Servant, Minstead The Turfcutters Arms, East Boldre The White Hart, Cadnam The White Horse, Netley Marsh If you run a New Forest pub and would like to be a Distribution Point, please email messengermag@yahoo.co.uk or call 07774 545008

New Forest Messenger 37 Competition Winners We love to see the photos our winners send in of themselves enjoying their prizes, so thank you to Jo and Roger, who are pictured to the right. To celebrate our second anniversary, we asked if any readers still had a copy of the first issue of New Forest Messenger. Rita Wye wins a Hayes Travel voucher worth 50 for sending in a photo of her collection of New Forest Messenger magazines! Emma Cooper was the winner of the New Forest Activity Centre competition in Issue 8. Issue 9 s Wordsearch winner was Mrs S Tilley of Fawley. Mrs Tilley wins a set of crystal tumblers. Jo Barr and her mum, Ann Bisseker, enjoy the Afternoon Tea they won in the Issue 7 competition of Where Am I? Roger and Jan from Eling enjoy the Afternoon Tea they won in the Issue 6 competition of Where Am I? A truly independent funeral directors and monumental masons. We give continuity of care and a commitment to provide only the very best. With professional caring staff here for you 24 hours a day. Bank House, The Square, Fawley 023 8089 0339

38 New Forest Messenger HEATHERDENE Bed & Breakfast BEAULIEU ROAD, DIBDEN PURLIEU, SOUTHAMPTON SO45 4PW www.heatherdenebandb.com Telephone 023 8084 6485 The Happy Fryer Mobile Fish & Chip Van Tuesday: Haydon Tyres, Cadnam 6pm-7pm Thursday: Church Farm Close 5pm-5.45pm Thursday: Drapers Copse 6.15pm-7pm Friday: Calmore Road 5pm-6.30pm Also available for private functions Keith and Dawn 07716 837147 Master Chimney Sweep Open Fires Agas Woodburners Bird Nests Removed Tel: 07963 039013 Find us on Facebook The Pet Shop HOLBURY PRECINCT, HOLBURY DROVE, HOLBURY SO45 2PW 10% off with this voucher! OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9AM-5PM FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 3 MILES 023 8089 8654 BUILDING PLANS AND DETAILED DRAWING SERVICE Complete professional service for extensions, conversions, new houses and commercial projects 95 Cedar Road, Hythe SO45 3PX Tel: 023 8020 7195 www.sandersdesignservices.co.uk

New Forest Messenger 39 Your Captions No! Of gorse it s not a wig deer! Mr A J Rickett of Hythe (our winner) That s definitely my last Stag Party! Mrs D Jupe, Holbury I must stop gorsing around! Claire Trist Can t see the wood for the trees! Davina Harvey The New Forest Messenger is looking for a self-employed Telesales person to work from our Fawley office five mornings a week, 15 hours in total. Must have good communication skills, good command of English and be confident talking on the telephone. Must have own transport (you may need to visit clients). Please contact Kathy: 07774 545008 messengermag@yahoo.co.uk Romsey Wellow Landford Bramshaw Copythorne Cadnam Totton Bartley Minstead Ashurst Marchwood To advertise in the New Forest Messenger please call Kathy: 07774 545008 Lyndhurst Dibden Hythe Hollybank Dibden Purlieu Adverts should be supplied as a CMYK 300dpi print-ready PDF or a CMYK 300dpi uncompressed JPEG. Beaulieu Holbury Blackfield/Exbury Calshot/Fawley Alternatively, our design team could create an advert for you. Distribution Area If you have news or a story to tell, email messengermag@yahoo.co.uk Your Free Local Community Magazine

40 New Forest Messenger Community Board Volunteers Fair New Forest National Park Authority is once again promoting voluntary roles in the Forest. January 28, 10.30am-4pm, Lyndhurst Community Centre. Living With Loss New Forest Funerals has started a new Bereavement Coffee Morning in conjunction with the St Andrew s Church team. First Thursday of each month in the Garden Lounge at St Andrew s, Dibden Purlieu, 2.30-3.30pm. Scottish Dancing Class Small, friendly class meets every Wednesday in the Community Hall in Lunedale Road, Dibden Purlieu, 7.30-9.30pm. Beginners welcome. Call Helen on 023 8086 3184; email hels99@gmail.com. Lunch Clubs Hot lunches served two Sundays of each month at The Horrill Centre, Dibden. Hot lunches served one day a week at West Totton and Central Totton. Places must be booked in advance for all lunch clubs. Call Age Concern New Forest on 023 8084 1199 for details. Breakfast Club Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club, Hideaway Cafe, Blackfield, every Wednesday and Sunday, 10.30am-1.30pm. Library Events Libraries hold various classes and events. Pop in and ask for details at your local library or call 0300 555 1375. WEEKEND PHARMACIES Lloyds Pharmacy, Totton (023 8087 1255) Sat: 8am-7pm Sun: 10am-4pm Boots, Romsey (01794 513143) Sat: 8.30am-5.30pm Sun: 10am-4pm Boots, Lymington (01590 673097) Sat: 8.30am-5.30pm Sun: 10am-4pm Boots, Westquay Retail Park (023 8033 5622) Sat: 8am-7pm Sun: 11am-5pm (From a window when the shop is closed, until midnight) Boots, Above Bar (023 8033 3983) Sat: 8am-7pm Sun: 10.30am-4.30pm Tesco, Tebourba Way (0345 677 8626) Sat: 8.30am-8.30pm Sun: 10am-4pm Asda, Marlands (023 8022 9997) Sat: 7am-10pm Sun: 11am-5pm Times may vary over Christmas. If you would like to feature an event, send details to: New Forest Messenger, Business Mail, PO Box 300, Southampton SO45 9AW or email: messengermag@yahoo.co.uk

New Forest Messenger 41 Trades & Services CLEANING & HOME CARE Andrew s Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Services. Discounts for senior citizens, free quotation. Call 023 8178 6638 or 07467 027213. Bluebird Care. Home Care, Live-in Care, Dementia Care, Respite Care and Disability Care. Call 01590 678340 or 023 8202 6500. Ice Cleaning Services. Residential and commercial cleaning, from ovens to carpets. Call 07555 355198. Oven Wizards. Have your oven, hob, extractor or Aga professionally cleaned. Call Rob Coates: 01425 270843 or 07947 775192. FLOWERS, FOOD & DRINK ABC Flowers and Balloons, Marchwood. For weddings, funerals and special occasions. Call 023 8066 3717. Alford Butchers, Cadnam. Local Beef, Pork, Lamb; Home-Cooked Ham; Homemade Sausages and Burgers; Vegetables. Call 023 8081 2269. FUNERAL DIRECTORS New Forest Funerals, The Square, Fawley. For a truly Independent Funeral Directors and Monumental Masons, call 023 8089 0339. GARDEN SERVICES Acorn Garden Maintenance, Insured, registered waste carrier. All aspects of garden maintenance undertaken. Call 023 8104 4766 / 07849 924766. Forest Home Developments Ltd. Groundworks, Drains, Block Paving, Patios, Tarmac. Call 023 8084 3512. Ryan Fencing Ltd. Closeboard with concrete posts specialists. For quality fencing and gates, call 023 8084 1203 or 07769 706516. Willow Tree and Garden Services. Trees felled and thinned, hedges trimmed, turf layed or seeded. No job too small. Call 01794 323207. HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLBEING Hair Elegance, The Salon at The Horrill Centre, hairdressing and barbering. Call Kriss Weeks on 07715 447114. To advertise, please call 07774 545008 or email messengermag@yahoo.co.uk