THE GAUNTLET THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE SOMBORNES AND ASHLEY Methodists celebrate in style 140 years of their church PAGES 6 and 7

Also in this issue:

Marquee markets return Your support needed PAGE 9 Village festival defies weather Beer and music event report PAGES 10 and 11 MP opens pavilion at Village Hall Plus good news for the future PAGES 14 and 15 Don’t miss our Arts section Drama, art, crafts and poetry all included PAGES 28 to 32 AUGUST 2011

DELIVERED FREE TO THE RESIDENTS OF THE SOMBORNES AND ASHLEY POSTED TO ANYWHERE ELSE IN THE FOR £8 PER YEAR

Useful names and numbers Parish Church Schools 01794 388381 Vicar: Rev Rob Stapleton 01794 388223 King’s Somborne School School 01264 810555 Reader: Sue Holligan 01794 388484 Wardens: Police David Bevan 07769682696 Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Sandie Pepperell 01794 388021 Police Station 0845 045 45 45 Urgent Calls 999 PCC Secretary: David Bevan 07769682696 Neighbourhood Watch Treasurer & Gift Aid Sec: Andrew Brock 01794 388227 Claire Bevan 01962 820482 Parish Council Sacristan / Cleaning For all officers and councillors, see page 4 Tony & Christine Mitchell 01794 388150 Borough Councillor Flowers: Tony Ward 01794 389649 Penny Ward 01794 389649 County Councillor Methodist Church Andrew Gibson 01264 861138 Minister: Member of Parliament Revd Dr Rosemary Baker 01962 880383 Caroline Nokes MP (evenings only) & Soton North Conservatives Steward: Marion Downing 01794 388121 01794 521155 Neighbourcare Roman Catholic Churches Transport to essential appointments and St Joseph‘s Romsey 02380 273882 other small tasks - details from: St John the Baptist Andover 01264 352829 Sue Jackson 01794 388884 Jenny Crouch St Andrew‘s North Baddesley 02380 273882 01794 388882 Village Correspondent Village Hall Dawn Harrison 01794 388418 Bookings: Mary Bradley 01794 388386 Village Website www.thesombornes.org.uk Epworth Hall The Gauntlet Bookings:Marion Downing 01794 388121 Editor: Harvey Saunders 01794 388029 Advertising: Sue Byram 01794 388521 Doctors Distribution: Norman Denison Stockbridge surgery 01264 810524 01794 388889 www.stockbridgesurgery.co.uk Please deliver articles for Broughton surgery 01794 301210 The Gauntlet to [email protected] Out of Hours Service 0844 811 3060 or The Post Office. Pharmacy Copy date is no later than 5.00pm on Stockbridge Pharmacy 01264 810624 the 15th of the month please. 1

Village Directory Allotments Friends of King’s Somborne Contact: Ray Blackmore 01794 388888 Church Contacts: Art exhibition committee Anthony Chilton (Secretary) 01794 388160 Contacts: David Pye (Membership) 01794 388405 Madeline Edmonds 01974 389014 Pam Watson 01794 388429 Football Club Contact: Doug Stammers 01794 389192 Badminton Club Every Monday 7.30pm. Restarts September Footpath walk Contact: Sue Jackson 01794 388884 Monthly walk on Parish footpaths on the last Sunday of each month. Starting at Baby & Toddler Group 2.00pm at the Village Hall car park. For babies, pre-school children, parents and Contact: David Haydon 01794 388120 carers. Every Wednesday 9.30am - Alison Seymour 01794 389219 11.30am during term time. Contact: Clare Horsfield 01794 388765 French Twinning Association Regular exchanges with St Paul du Vernay Bellringing in Normandy Every Monday 7.30 - 9.00pm. Contact: Louise & Andrew Causer 01794 Contact: Sue Spurling 01794 388266 389364 Catherine Edwards Trust Garden waste scheme Provides grants to village students Garden waste will be collected in w/c 8th Contact: Frank Cleverley 01794 388399 and 22nd August. Cricket Club Home Group Contact: Frank Fahy 01794 388314 Biblestudy group. Usually third Thursdays of the month at 8.00pm. Christians Together in Somborne Contact: Nigel Coleman 01794 388449 and District Welcome all to open and ecumenical Horticultural Society meetings and services throughout the year. Meets for two talks and one visit per year Contact: Nigel Coleman 01794 388449 and organises the annual Flower Show. Contact: Pollyann Monk 01794 388482 Community Responders Contact: John Vanderpump 01794 388647 Household waste Non-recyclable household waste (black Dial-a-Ride bins) will be collected in w/c 8th and 22nd Trips to Romsey every Wednesday, for August. senior citizens and disabled people, at Recyclable household waste (brown bins) 2.00pm. Fare £2.70. will be collected in w/c 1st, 15th and 29th Contact: Dick or Zoe 01264 356808 August (one day late on w/c 29th August). Drop In Coffee morning at the Epworth Hall. Every first and third Tuesday at 10.30am. 2

Village Directory (continued) Mobile Library Sunday Night at Six (SNAS) Tuesday 23rd August: Christian youth group for ages 9-13+. 2.30 - 3.00pm Up Somborne Meets in Epworth Hall on 1st and 3rd 3.15 - 3.45pm Church Road Sundays of month in term time, 6.00- 7.15pm, plus outings and other events. Information: 02380 267393 Contact: Sam Barnes 07742077114 Pastoral Care Group [email protected] Contact: Fi Chilton 01794 388160 Tiny Tots Prayer Group Meet in the Parish Church each Tuesday at Please contact Rev Robert Stapleton on 2.00pm. 01794 388223 Contact: Christine Ball 01794 388633 School Association Women’s Institute A group of volunteer parents meeting twice Meets on the second Wednesday of each a term to organize social and fund-raising month at 7.30pm in the Epworth Hall. events to benefit the school and its pupils. Contact: Linda Aucock 01794 388542 Contact: Caroline Andrews 01794 389231 Working Men’s Club Scouts Various entertainments throughout the Beavers Wednesdays 5.45 - 6.45pm month. Cubs Thursdays 6.30 - 8.00pm Contact: Carol Black 01794 388027 Scouts Wednesdays 7.00 - 9.00pm Contact: Janice Waterman 01794 388588 Youth Housegroup For ages 11-14+. Meetings in members‘ Somborne & District Society houses or social events monthly. Meetings held on the fourth Wednesday of Contact: Pam Gravenor 01794 388531 each month at 8.00pm, usually in the Village Hall. www.communigate.co.uk/hants/somsoc Contact: Mike Reynolds 01794 388107 Somborne Needleworkers Meet each Thursday at 2.00pm at Nutcher‘s, 3 Nutcher‘s Drove. Contact: Eileen Humphreys 01794 388427 Somborne Players Regular, informal play readings and outings. Contact: Melanie Haydon 01794 388120 Somborne Singers Weekly meetings to sing ballads, songs from shows etc. every Tuesday at 7.45pm in the Parish Church. Contact: Sue Jackson 01794 388884

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Your Parish Council contacts: John Werrett 01794 389311 [email protected] Chairman Flood Watch/TVA of Local Councils/ Communications & Website Richard Harwood 01264 810314 [email protected] Vice Chairman Sports Facilities/Biodiversity Gordon Pearson 01794 388662 Chairman Planning Committee David Bidwell 01794 388939 [email protected] Vice-Chairman Planning Committee VHMC/Transport/Planning Committee Andrew Brock: 01794 388227 [email protected] Neighbourhood Watch/Farming Community Liaison/Up Somborne Liaison/Communications & Website Roy Curtis: 01794 389373 [email protected] Schools Liaison/Young People Frank Fahy 01794 388314 [email protected] CPRE/Sports Facilities/Highways/ Communications & Website Paul Goddard 01794 388187 [email protected] Dawn Harrison 01794 388418 Horsebridge Liaison [email protected] Geoff Herbert 01794 388688 [email protected]

Clerk Peter Storey 01794 389688 [email protected] Tree Warden Colin Matthews 01794 388272 [email protected] Footpath Wardens David Haydon 01794 388120 Alison Seymour Open Space Wardens Ron Bevan 01794 388545 Richard Dyke 01794 388525 Roy Pigeon 01794 388501

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Ten million in East Africe face starvation following worst drought in 60 years Christian Aid has launched an emergency humanitarian appeal to help people across the east and Horn of Africa after two failed rainy seasons have left ten million on the brink of starvation.

Drought and displacement combined with rising global food prices have left Kenya and Ethiopia in particular facing severe food shortages, with UNOCHA reporting that the regional situation is the worst food security crisis in the world today.

Some parts of the region are experiencing the driest conditions in 60 years, and Christian Aid emergency teams are continuously assessing how best to help local populations.

„The crisis has been building for some time, especially in Kenya and Ethiopia, and is fast escalating across the region,‟ warns Nick Guttmann, Christian Aid‟s humanitarian director.

„People are desperate and if we don‟t act now we could be looking at one of the worst humanitarian situations the world has seen in a long time.‟

Funds are urgently needed for life saving measures such as: Provision of water for villages experiencing the worst of the drought conditions Food for families, malnourished children, and pregnant women Animal feed to protect livestock that are so crucial to survival.

To make a donation to Christian Aid‟s East Africa Food Crisis Appeal call 08080 004 004 or visit www.christianaid.org.uk/east-africa-appeal

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Sun shines on Methodist Church celebrations The gloriously sunny weekend of the 2nd and 3rd July 2011 was one of celebration for King‘s Somborne Methodist Church. It marked 140 years since the Chapel opened in 1871. This fantastic anniversary was celebrated in true Methodist style - with large amounts of food and some roof-raising singing! On the Saturday, we welcomed church and Sunday school members old and new, local preachers, people from the village and the circuit and many other friends to the chapel for a leisurely walk followed by a delicious cream tea. (Huge thanks must go to everyone who helped provide these!) I believe it is fair to say that this was a truly ecumenical event, with What a spread! representatives from local Anglican, Catholic and Methodist churches. It photographs of chapel and Sunday was fantastic to see the Epworth Hall school activities in days gone by, and a full with people enjoying themselves, lot of reminiscing went on! meeting up with old friends and making new ones. Much fun was had On the Sunday, the festivities recommenced with a lovely service led looking at the extensive displays of old by the Revd Dr Rosie Baker. This featured many favourite hymns and readings. After the service, tea and coffee were served in the church, followed by a group photo outside in the sunshine. Then, about half the Walkers recover with the cream tea 6

congregation stayed for an eagerly awaited slap-up ploughman‘s lunch. This was a brilliant weekend for the All at the Methodist church thank all chapel, with a great time had by all. our friends in the village for their However, it wouldn‘t have been marvellous support throughout our possible without the help from Anniversary weekend. everyone at the church, so a huge Many thanks, thank you to you, and we‘ll see you all Rosie Baker in 10 years time at the 150th anniversary celebrations! Eleanor Gravenor

THE CATHERINE EDWARDS TRUST The Catherine Edwards Trust makes modest but useful grants to students who are staying on in education, training or apprenticeship after leaving Secondary Schools this summer. Grants usually take the form of books or other items recommended for the course but not supplied by the employer or college. Grant application forms are now available at the King's Somborne Post Office Counter or from Trust Secretary, Frank Cleverley at 20 Nutchers Drove, King's Somborne, Stockbridge, SO20 6PA where completed forms should be returned not later than Wednesday 14th September 2011. Grant awards will be notified shortly after.

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King’s Somborne Working Men’s Club Forthcoming events: Saturday 30 July Race Night Open to everyone (You must be over Accompanied children welcome 18 to gamble) Admission - small donation to charity First race at 8.15pm Saturday 6 August Mr Rodeo Country Open to everyone over the age & Western Evening of 16 Non-members £2 entry Saturday 20 August Fun Night Open to everyone Golf, Darts, Pool, Hi-Lo Cards, Table Football etc Teams of 4 (names to be pulled out of a hat on the night) Entry fee £1.00 per person Prizes to be won Saturday 10 Sept Family Disco Open to everyone Children must be accompanied by an adult No entrance fee Saturday 17 Sept Nearly New/Table Starts 2.00pm Top Sale If you would like to hire a table at a cost of £5, please contact Janette Batchelor on 07582 552666 or [email protected]

Neighbourcare - new tariffs Stockbridge £ 2.50 A reminder that Neighbourcare Broughton £ 4.00 charges will change from the first of August as detailed above — do keep Romsey £ 6.50 a copy of this article for reference. £ 8.00 Andover £ 10.00 £ 11.50 Other journeys will also be charged at 45p per mile. 8

The first Marquee market of the year will be held on Saturday 6th August. These popular events will be held every Saturday morning during August in the grounds of the Parish Church. Stalls will include produce, cakes, fabric material, books and cards. Any produce from your own gardens which is surplus to requirements would be welcomed and you may find something you want on the stalls yourself. Do come along and join us for a cup of coffee or tea and a piece of cake and stay and have a good chat! Hopefully the weather will be kind. We look forward to seeing you there.

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Festival spirit Most of the week leading up to our use of a number of black plastic bin second beer and music festival was bags, we were able to move the music spent listening to as many different outside to the Meachers trailer. The weather forecasts as possible hoping afternoon and evening progressed with for at least one to predict sunshine. some great performances in spite of We also tried to borrow as many the all too frequent bursts of rain. gazebos and marquees as we could get Special thanks go to Trevor Ryan who hold of to provide some cover from the manned the sound desk throughout the elements. In the end, we managed to day, John Vanderpump who assemble what must have looked like a introduced the acts and kept things mini-refugee camp for the audience, running to time and to the team at the the acts and the brave stall holders. Crown, who somehow managed to fit All who came along enjoyed a vast this all in around their normal day jobs array of local real ales the Crown had (and then cope with a busy fathers‘ day once again assembled and an excellent the following day!). range of food provided by local firms I‘m extremely grateful to all those who Perrins and Greenfields. helped stage the event by providing Unfortunately, we had to start off the either their time or various bits of event indoors. Both the local Scout essential equipment (or both) and group, who kicked things off with above all to the performers, stall excerpts from their gang show, and holders and other entertainers who then Miles Apart, who played a really helped make the day a success under great set, got us off to a fantastic start. very difficult conditions. In spite of It was just a real shame there were not the weather, we did manage to make a more people there to see them both. small profit for the Village Hall funds After that, and thanks to the judicious and by Sunday evening the field was

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and generally act like idiots. It seems almost inconceivable to me that in a small village like ours we need to employ a professional security firm to act as law enforcement at what is effectively a village fête; but that is what it will come to if we want to get a liquor licence again. We will also need more helpers, particularly over the weekend of the event but also to a lesser extent in the weeks and months leading up to the day. The event is one of a series of almost back to normal. events organised by the Village Hall If this event is to continue (and I really Development Fund Raising Committee hope it can) there will certainly need to and this committee is in need of new be some changes introduced. members who are prepared to get Unfortunately, prices will need to rise involved to varying degrees in some or to cope with the extra costs that will be all of the various events put on during inevitable given the behaviour this the year. If you would like to help year of a small minority. Both under- either with the beer and music festival age and over-18 drinkers insisted on or more generally on this committee spoiling the party by bringing please get in touch with Tony Brooke- excessive amounts of their own Webb (chairman) or myself. alcohol onto the site and then Doug [email protected] proceeding to drink themselves stupid Friends of Ashley St.Mary Traditional Tea Party Sunday August 14th 3.00pm until 4.30pm There will also be an Exhibition for the whole weekend entitled “The Towpath Years” by David Smith. All are welcome. No charge, but donations will go to the Churches Conservation Trust

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From the Borough Councillor Bottle Banks people in the village but we need to Now the new houses adjacent to the know who they are. If you want books recreation ground are being occupied, you used to get from the mobile library we are seeking an alternative location but cannot get to Church Road then for the bottle banks. We have received please contact me or get a friend/ noise complaints from residents of the neighbour to contact me on your new and existing houses. We need to behalf – I am sure we can find a move the bins either to another solution just for you. location on the recreation area or Insulate Hampshire elsewhere in the village. If we cannot Hampshire County Council and the achieve this then we will be forced to Borough Councils including TVBC remove the bottle banks from the have got together to launch a home village. insulation scheme. Full details have We have been working with the Parish not yet been released but at this time I Council to find a resolution but we can collect names of those interested. need your help. If you have a The scheme will cost no more than £99 suggestion to help then please contact for loft or cavity wall insulation. You me. can have both if you obliviously pay the £99 twice. This is subject to a Mobile Library survey. I have had a meeting with Hampshire County Council about the reduction in Over-70s and those on certain benefits services to make our dissatisfaction will be entitled to insulation free of clear. However, there are no charge. opportunities to change as HCC strive The scheme is likely to be launched at to save £500,000 in the library service. the end of July. Here are the usage figures for King‘s Somborne: Cllr Tony Ward April July Sep/Oct 01794 389649 2009 2009 2010 [email protected] Nutchers Drove 5 5 4 Church Road 5 8 4 Eldon Road 1 6 8 Although these are very small numbers, the library is important to these people. For those able to go to Church Road the library will still be available. A library volunteer is helping two people in Nutchers Drove and one in Eldon Road. There are other options to get books to other 12

Register for The Sombornes Pre-School NOW!

The Sombornes Pre-School Places for children Sessions available: aged 2 will be charged at just £4 per hour. Every Tuesday AM (Forest School Sessions are available from Tuesday to twice a month) Friday (see box on the left) and we‘re Every Wednesday PM also hoping to start a Lunch Club Every Thursday AM and PM (Forest every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, School for AM session only) if there‘s sufficient demand. Every Friday AM So, what are you waiting for? Register your child now for our village Pre- Do you have a child aged from 2 to 5 School and let us know if you would years? Are you looking for a local, like to take advantage of the pre- friendly Pre-School for up to 15 hours school Lunch Club. Please contact a week? Then you‘re in luck! Lucy Chadwick on 01794 389 587 or [email protected] to On 6th September 2011, The register or for more information. Sombornes Pre-School will open it‘s Priority will be given to those who doors to welcome all children aged 2 register now, once we start allocating to 5 years old. We‘ve had our spaces. OFSTED approval and are able to offer FREE places (up to 15 hours) to Sam Boot children aged 3-5 in line with the early Vice-Chair, years education funding scheme. The Sombornes Pre-school Committee

Queen’s 2012 Diamond Jubilee HM The Queen‘s Diamond Jubilee might be able to avoid a clash of will be celebrated over the period 2 to times which could prevent people 5 June 2012. The Parish Council from attending as many events as they believes it would be useful if those would otherwise like. thinking of organising a celebratory It does not matter if your ideas are event such as a street party, afternoon still in the early stages of planning. tea, something in the Village Hall, Any input will help map what might Churches or Schools, came to the next happen. Please pass on your thoughts Council meeting at 7.00pm on to the Clerk if you are unable to come Monday 5 September in the Epworth to the meeting. Hall to outline their thoughts. The Peter Storey Council has no wish to interfere but Clerk by co-ordinating dates and effort we

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Village Hall news The official opening of the re- gave us a grant of £20,000 for the furbished pavilion was held on the work as well as considerable advice 16th July. It proved to be a very about the requirements for a modern successful event. The weather in the sporting pavilion. As a result of the morning was ominous with heavy rain help from all these bodies we now but it gradually cleared as the day have one of the best pavilions in the progressed and, at 1.00pm, the Dave area. The Chairman also thanked Lee McLoughlin Memorial Football Young our builder for the quality of Tournament kicked off. See opposite his work and his co-operation with the for a report on the football. rather complicated project. We now At the opening ceremony, the know that 44 footballers can all have Chairman of the Village Hall showers without the water going cold! Management Committee thanked all After the speeches, our MP Caroline those who had been involved in raising money for the upgrading of the pavilion. Most of the money came from local villagers led by the Hall Development Committee but grants and support had come from the Parish Council, Test Valley Borough Council and Hampshire County Council and we were gratified that representatives from all these bodies were able to be present. In particular, we were delighted to welcome Sacha Nicholas from the Hampshire Football Association and Mel Antao from the Football Foundation. The latter organisation Caroline Nokes cuts the ribbon 14

Nokes cut the traditional ribbon and money has been raised through our unveiled a plaque in recognition of the own efforts but we have received Football Foundation‘s support. financial backing from our Parish Following this there was a poignant Council as well as TVBC and HCC. ceremony when Gloria McLoughlin The plans are with the planning dedicated a plaque to her late husband. department and once we receive Another cause for celebration is that consent we will draw up detailed we have heard that we now have specifications and obtain estimates from builders so that, with a fair wind, enough money to proceed with the next phase of refurbishment of the the new facilities will be in place soon Hall. This will be the provision of a after the new pre-school starts to meet. community room in place of the old Terry Mackintosh storage areas and the construction of new storage facilities. Most of the

The Dave McLoughlin Memorial Football Tournament The Football Club was proud to host a The thi rd- place match saw day of sporting competition in Stockbridge show their higher league memory of one of it‘s Life Vice class and get the better of Somborne. Presidents who passed away this year. The final was a fine contest that saw The tournament was held in Broughton overcome Braishfield. conjunction with the opening of the The trophy was presented by Gloria new pavilion and players appreciated McLoughlin, and we hope to have the new facilities. raised a tidy sum for the Brain In the first match, King‘s Somborne Tumour Trust. Many thanks to all those who brought raffle tickets, put up a good fight against Braishfield but were narrowly beaten. refreshments and programmes to In the second match Broughton beat boost the total. Stockbridge, but only after a nail Andy Gannaway biting penalty shoot out. Following the opening ceremony, the large crowd were entertained by a veterans match, featuring guys who used to work with Mac against ex- Somborne players. The game was won by Somborne, but the spirit of the game and the chance for old friends to get out there together were the real high points. 15

Bugsy Malone and Fat Sam come to town The recent inclement weather caused skilfully and unobtrusively by the disappointment to the children in our backstage team of Robert Monger, village school when it meant the River Bonnar-Osman and George cancellation of the school‘s planned Draper. sports afternoon. So it was good that Courteney Collis as Blousey and Heidi the KS2 production of ‗Bugsy Malone‘ Faux-Whitehead as Tallulah provided was not dependent on the weather. a good foil to the often unruly male This was an ambitious undertaking and characters, maintaining their how splendidly the cast rose to the immaculate and colourful appearance challenge. Loosely based on events in while managing to avoid the custard New York City in the prohibition era, shooting splurge guns. the story of rival gang members Bugsy This is a production with a little of Malone, Dandy Dan and Fat Sam, everything – gangster behaviour, aspiring singer Blousy Brown and Fat singing, mime and movement which Sam‘s girlfriend Tallulah is full of could so easily descend into action. It requires accurate and pantomime; but this production never meticulous timing to say nothing of the lost its credibility as something quite learning of lots of lines! All of this different. The children are to be was achieved with great skill by this congratulated on a magnificent young cast. It was impressive how production. Skilful direction, well lines were remembered and appropriate scenery, authentic props, delivered – at times in very convincing colourful costumes and effective accents! Special mention must be lighting meant that thanks must also go made of Joshua Thomas-Buffin as to teachers, parents and all those who Bugsy Malone and Adam helped them to achieve such an McClenaghan as Fat Sam who really impressive result. Judging from this became the parts they were playing. production it would appear that the The play demands many exits and future of The Somborne Players is in entrances and very speedy and subtle safe hands! prop changes, the latter carried out so Jo Finch

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John of Gaunt Award 2011 The Somborne and District Society Y a s m i n were delighted with the response to Lawrence this year‘s John of Gaunt Award, with for her no less than a record 28 entries, all of work on which were submitted by pupils from R o m s e y our village school. Judges Mary Abbey in Bradley and Sally Wilson were faced the 13th with the very difficult task of deciding century and on the winners and were impressed s e c o n d with the variety of topics and different prize went forms of presentation. Annotated to Clem illustrations, a model, a poem, Walsh and photographs, drawings, published S o f i e This year’s winner guide books, audio tapes and Barnard for interviews had all been used in a their joint entry on King‘s Somborne variety of ways to explore the various School. This included an impressive topics. model of the school together with This local history competition requires transcripts of interviews with that entrants choose a topic of local employees of the school. Yasmin, history, with ‗local‘ being defined as Clem and Sofie received money prizes. within the Test Valley. Some entries Winner of the John of Gaunt award reflected topics children had been was Jessica Clayden who produced a investigating in school, such as photographic record of buildings along buildings in King‘s Somborne, Romsey Road entitled ‘My walk to Victorian schools and the village school’. The photos, including those church. Other entrants chose their own of the then unfinished houses, were topics. The latter included King‘s accompanied by notes about the Somborne School, Romsey Abbey in buildings, demonstrating how rich in the 13th century, 12th century history is this area of the village. churches in the Test Valley, the Test Jessica also received a money prize Way disused railway and buildings and will retain the inscribed John of along Romsey Road. Gaunt cup for a year. Two entries were highly commended – The children‘s interest on local history a joint submission from Caitlin Lopich was evident in all the entries, and and Darcy Eckett on 12th century thanks must go to teachers, parents, churches in the Test Valley and a family members and friends for all project on the disused their encouragement and support. We railway from Christian Beck. These look forward to next year‘s three entrants each received a hardback competition. copy of ‗Horrible Histories of the Jo Finch British Isles‘. Third prize went to 17

What’s on Your guide to events in and around the district Blasts from the Past: Living by ‘s The Point Youth History Show Theatre. Free with entry to the Park. Set in the grounds of Broadlands Park, The world‘s largest annual wildlife art this glorious show for all the family exhibition on 25-29 August will brings history to life from the Ancient feature over 700 stunning exhibits, Greeks and Romans through to the late whilst sculptures by three different 20th Century. On 6 August, artists inspired by the natural world skirmishes, battles, musket and canon can be seen throughout the Park during fire, horses and armoured vehicles August. 01962 777407. combine with historical fashion shows, HMS Warrior has opened a family dancing, storytelling and scenes from activity area in the gunroom, including military camp life throughout the ages costumed role play, toys and games. for an exciting day out. Gates open at 11.00am. Free onsite parking. 023 9283 9766. Refreshments available. Further The New Forest Centre is holding details at www.broadlandsestates.co.uk discovery days on Tuesdays and or call 01794 512987. Thursdays during school holidays, with opportunities to explore the Mast Climb museum and join in Forest themed The challenge is on! Dare to climb to activities. 023 8028 3444. the top of a 125ft mast, enjoy a great atmosphere and raise money for a Enjoy ‗A Day Out with Thomas the worthwhile cause - the Jubilee Sailing Tank Engine‘ on the Watercress Line Trust is holding a sponsored mast between 6-14 August. climb on 6 August at Southampton After more than 20 years, the final Dock Gate 10. Test your nerve and Hayling Island Carnival takes place strength as you clamber two-thirds the on 6 August at 1.00pm. height of Big Ben on rope and wood ladders, to the top of Tenacious. This, Gardens open for charity and their other ship, Lord Nelson, are Longstock Park Water Garden opens at the only ships of their kind in the 2.00pm on 7 August (Winchester Live world that have been designed to at Home Scheme) and 21 August enable crews of all physical abilities to (Barton Stacey ). sail side by side as equals. The event National Garden Scheme: The starts at 10.00am and is free for Buildings, Broughton (6-7 August); spectators. For details, 023 8042 6868. Ibthorpe Tower, Family Holiday Activities (14 and 17 August); Gilbert‘s Nursery ‗The Jungle Book‘ will be performed (20, 27-28 August). Teas available. at Marwell Park from 14-27 August Bethan Bennett-Lloyd 18

Theatres Theatre Royal, Winchester 2 September (01962 840440 or Dominic Kirwin, Irish singer www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk) 10 September 5-6 August Crispystock Festival ‗Mr Benn‘ 14 September 24 August ‗An Audience with Ann Widecombe‘ ‗Bob the Builder‘ 15 September 31 August - 3 September ‗Music and Mirth‘, Weyhill Electronic ‗Singin‘ in the Rain‘ Organ Society ______17 September Chichester Festival Theatre ‗The Way Back Home‘, young theatre (01243 7813128 or www.cft.org.uk) Book now! 7 October 27 June - 10 September Omid Djahili, comedy ‗Singin‘ in the Rain‘ ______19 July - 3 September The Screen, Winchester ‗Rattigan‘s Nijinsky‘ (0871 9069060 or 13 July - 3 September www.everymancinema.com) ‗The Deep Blue Sea‘ 21 August 21 July - 20 August Glyndebourne Live: ‗The Turn of the ‗The Syndicate‘ Screw‘ 2 September - 8 October 15 September ‗‘ NT Live: ‗One Man, Two Guvnors‘ ‗The Browning Version‘ ______Outdoor theatre Salisbury Playhouse Manor House, Norton Park (01722 320333 or 01962 763000 www.salisburyplayhouse.com) 17 August 8 September - 8 October ‗Pride and Prejudice‘ ‗Way Upstream‘, Alan Ayckbourn 18 August 3-22 October ‗The Taming of the Shrew‘ ‗The Girl in the Yellow Dress‘ Beech Hurst Park, Andover 20 October - 12 November 5 August ‗Persuasion‘ ‗Pinocchio‘, free entry, 6.00pm. ______The Lights, Andover Nuffield, Southampton (01264 368368 or (02380 671771 or www.thelights.org.uk) www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk) Dance, drama, craft and cookery 10 September workshops throughout August. ‗Little Bo Peep‘ 23 August and 6 September 17 September Lee Nelson, comedy ‗The Hare and the Tortoise‘ 19

Village Diary for August 2011 1st Bell ringing 7.30pm 15th Bell ringing 7.30pm

2nd Drop in Club 10.30am 16th Drop in Club 10.30am 3rd Dial-a-Ride 2.00pm 17th Dial-a-Ride 2.00pm 4th Needle workers 2.00pm 18th Needle workers 2.00pm VHMC 7.30pm 6th Marquee Market 10.00am 20th Marquee Market 10.00am

8th Bell ringing 7.30pm 22nd Bell ringing 7.30pm 10th Dial-a-Ride 2.00pm 24th Dial-a-Ride 2.00pm Needle workers 2.00pm Somborne Society 7.30pm 11th SomSoc picnic 25th Needle workers 2.00pm 13th Marquee Market 10.00am 27th Marquee Market 10.00am VHMC 7.30pm 14th Ashley Tea Party 3.00pm 28th Footpath Walk 2.00pm

Footpath walk 7.5 miles (12 Km) 3 hours We leave the village on the footpath to Horsebridge where we join the Test Way and head south to Lower Brook. We then take the steep path up the hill (with a steel handrail) up to Michelmersh. We pass through the churchyard and on to Manor Farm. From Manor Farm we cross the fields to Eldon Church and then back to the village along Eldon Road. (Please note that the September walk will start from Stockbridge Town Hall.) Stockbridge 10K and 2K Fun Run Saturday 17th September 2011 In aid of Stockbridge Pre-school and the Friends of St Peter‟s Church, Stockbridge Registration from 8.30am Race starts 10.00am or register beforehand at www.runnersworld.co.uk or www.stockbridge10k.webeden.co.uk

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District diary for August 2011 5 August 14 August Tudor House and Garden; guided tour Hinton Ampner Family Fun Day, around one of Southampton‘s historic 10.00am-5.00pm. 01962 771305. sites, 11.00am. 023 8083 4563. 14 August 5 August ‗Skyride‘; a free cycle event through Royal Marines School of Music car-less streets of Southampton, from Guildhall Concert and Beating Retreat, 10.00am. www.goskyride.com , 2.00pm. 023 9282 4355. 14 and 28 August 6 August - 4 September Winchester Farmers‘ Market. Gurkha Museum Summer Exhibition: 15 August - 23 September The Scottish Connection - Tartan, King James Bible Exhibition at Bagpipes, Kukris and Courage. Daily . 01962 621209. from 10.00am. 01962 842832. 20 August 7 August Women in Winchester; guided tour Antiques and 20th century collectables based on the lives of three very market, Winchester. different historical figures. 3.00pm. 7 August 01962 840500. Romsey Farmers‘ Market, as part of 20-21 August the Hampshire Food Festival. Big Bike Bash at Avon Tyrell Activity 7 August Centre, New Forest. Bikes, beer and The Trout and About Festival; bands in aid of charity UK Youth. everything from artisanal cheese www.bigbikebash.co.uk makers to vintage clothing in 21 August Stockbridge High Street. Live music. Big Band on the Lawn; concert at Free from 10.00am. 07932 477436. Lainston House in aid of Macmillan 10 August Cancer Support. 01962 776088. Speed-dating at The Slug and Lettuce, 27 August Winchester. 7.30pm, 07774 521249. Family Summer‘s End Picnic and 13 August Fireworks at Hillier Gardens, from British Heart Foundation Randonee 6.00pm. 01794 369318. Bike Challenge. Cycle from Avebury 27 August to Tring along the Ridgeway. 0808 Chesil Railway and Tunnel; guided 100 2109. walk exploring the old Didcot, 13-14 August Newbury and Southampton line. 10th anniversary of the Exbury Garden 11.15am and 2.15pm. 01962 840500. Railway. Special events and visiting 27-29 August locomotives. 023 8089 1203. Kite Festival, Southsea Common. 14 August 29 August Classic Volkswagen show on Southsea Organ recital by Richard Hills, Common. Free entry from 10.00am, Winchester Cathedral at 4.00pm. charity donations. 023 9282 6722. 01962 857275.

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The Somborne and District Society The Society‘s two events in June brought to life the period of the 1912 proved to be outstanding successes. maritime disaster through costumes of The evening visit to Bishop‘s Waltham the age and anecdotes and testimonies was immensely enjoyable, with our from some of the survivors. two local guides giving us a well- Lucy Adlington and Gary Goldthorpe, briefed tour of the town, and our in period dress, recounted the events of supper at the Anvil restaurant was both the fateful voyage. For part of the time convivial and appetising. they were in character as Sir Cosmo A week later, around seventy Society and Lady Lucy Duff-Gordon who members and guests were superbly sailed on the Titanic and both entertained at our afternoon meeting survived. Lady Lucy was in fact a with a ―Titanic‖ theme. The well-known society fashion designer presentation by The History Wardrobe of the age and we saw, through her eyes and her subsequent writings, a picture of the social scene of the time. Alternately amusing and moving, the account kept the audience engaged for well over an hour and was followed by a delicious tea provided by committee members and other helpers. July saw the Society‘s AGM with new officers and committee elected and August will bring the Summer Picnic on Thursday 11th and a talk on The Fire Service in World War II on Wednesday 24th. Mike Reynolds Retiring Chairman

Sir Cosmo and Lady Lucy 22

ANGEL FESTIVAL 2011 ORGANISED BY THE PARISH OF SOMBORNE WITH ASHLEY 11-25 SEPTEMBER 2011

On Sunday 25 September 2011 we will be celebrating Michaelmas, the feast of St Michael the Archangel (also the Feast of Saints Michael, the Feast of the Archangels, or the Feast of Saint Michael and All Angels). The idea of an Angel Festival and celebration of a Giving Day seems a very fitting way to celebrate Michaelmas. The themes are ‗Modern‘, ‗Religious‘ and ‗an Angel in a Historical Event‘. Entries can be from individuals, local groups, businesses, schools or retailers. There will be prizes for the winners in numerous categories including a People‘s Choice Award. If you are a local group, you can display your Angel either around where your group meets or within the Church. If you are a business then Angels can be displayed in shop windows, etc. We are hoping to fill the Church with displays of Angels, as well as having Angels appearing in peoples‘ gardens, in windows of homes and all around. Angels will be displayed for two weeks, 11 September 2011 to 25 September 2011. This will give everyone a chance to marvel and vote on all the Angels displayed around the village. On Sunday 25 September, as well as the Church services in the morning, there will be a musical performance in the Church at lunchtime with refreshments, a chance to admire all the displays in the Church, and to celebrate our Giving Day. This will then lead in to our Alive Service at 6.00pm. Entry forms are now available from the Church. NB. You are very welcome to display Angels and not be in the competition (entry forms therefore do not need to be completed). Claire Bevan Church Treasurer and Gift Aid Secretary Tel: 01794 515163/01962 820482 Email: [email protected]

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Somborne Neighbourhood Watch This month the Somborne very low impact role in Neighbourhood Watch article in The terms of your effort, but Gauntlet is a little different, as I‘d like massive impact in terms of keeping to introduce myself as the new our village safe. Chairman of the Neighbourhood Watch Coordinators and update you on Somborne Neighbourhood some of the challenges we face. Watch Area Incidents In the last 12 months, just 3 domestic First, I would, on behalf of all of the burglaries occurred, 8 thefts from NHW coordinators, like to make a vehicles and 14 thefts from gardens/ special mention of and give heartfelt garden sheds, though burglary from thanks to Bill Hartley who is standing business in our area was slightly down as Chair of Neighbourhood higher with 16 instances (mostly Watch Coordinators. Bill has guided farms). There were 5 cases of criminal the Neighbourhood Watch scheme in damage reported. our village for a number of years. He remains an active and valued member Current Trends of your Neighbourhood Watch Heating oil theft – particularly coordinator team. from farms and frequently just after We enjoy an outstandingly safe and a delivery has been made. secure rural community. This adds to Secure your tank the wonderful quality of village life in Add a taggant (a tracking the Somborne Neighbourhood Watch chemical used to uniquely area. This is almost entirely due to the identify your fuel in the event vigilance of our neighbours and of theft) awareness of trends in criminal activity Mark it as tagged in the surrounding area. I‘m keen that Theft of machinery from garden we maintain this enviable reputation. sheds and gardens Secure your tools – ideally in a Your village needs you! locked shed We do however have some areas in the Etch valuable equipment Somborne Neighbourhood Watch Don‘t leave them unattended in areas that do not have any the garden Neighbourhood Watch Coordinators. So, I would be very interested to hear Your Somborne Neighbourhood from any of you prepared to act as a Watch can provide free tank stickers focal point for neighbours especially in and free loan of etching equipment - the following areas: Romsey Road just get in touch with one of us! (Hayes Close to Cow Drove Hill), Andrew Brock Muss Lane, Nutchers Drove, Brook Somborne Neighbourhood Watch and Crompton as well as the Eldon [email protected] Tel: 388227 Road and surrounding area. It is a

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King’s Somborne Cricket Club To the great relief of the officers of the Jarvis, and the Club, the Parish Council has funded, innings closed on 69 and submitted an application to the after sixteen of the Borough Council for, the erection of a scheduled twenty net to protect persons and property at overs had been bowled. The visitors the four new properties that have been took 17.1 overs to get the 70 runs built on the Old Garage Site adjacent needed with the four wickets being to the cricket ground. A Pre- taken by Fisher (2 for 11), Jarvis( 1 for Application proposal had previously 25) and Buckley (1for 21). been agreed by TVBC in principle. Winchester Doctors visited on 13th Prior to the start of the construction, July. They got off to a flying start, the developer failed to respond to the scoring off almost every ball with Club‘s repeated requests to discuss the excellent running between the wickets. potential danger to the new residents. The first three batsmen retired on 25 The fact that the Club had existed for runs, as the rule requires, and the 115 years before the building innings closed after the agreed development took place, together with eighteen overs on a challenging 152 the unheeded warnings, freed the Club for 3. King‘s Somborne‘s bowling from any legal requirement to mitigate was generally untidy, except for that of the danger. However, the officers of Phil Pidgeon who took 2 for 9, the the Club proposed the installation of other wicket being taken by Chairman the net on the basis of moral Harwood. Except for a lively innings responsibility. We await the response of 25 (retired) by Rory McClenaghan of TVBC to the application. and a stout innings of 11 not out by the Only two games have been played Chairman, the batting collapsed for a since 8th June because of a total of 79 for 7 in the allocated overs. combination of poor weather and the Frank Fahy failure of a visiting club to raise a team. Crawley came with the aim of avenging their earlier defeat by KSCC: and avenge they did! They took the first three King‘s Somborne wickets for two runs. Leon Fisher put up a fight for 14 but the next four batsmen could muster only six runs between them. Rory McClenaghan then played a defiant innings for the top score of 28 not out, assisted by seven from Rob 25

NOW OUT

Penny Morgan’s latest crime thriller that takes place in the New Forest.

Dog fighters will stop at nothing to protect their „sport‟, even murder.

Available online at Amazon, Authorhouse, major bookstores or directly from [email protected] Tel: 01794 388469 at £8.99

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The Up Somborne Farm Safari This year‘s summer event in Up and economical use of fertilisers and Somborne was a Farm Safari. Some herbicides at exactly the right time for 60 residents travelled in trailers, kindly each crop. They are very aware of loaned by . The first their environmental responsibilities stop was a hazelnut wood, where planting trees, hedgerows and wide Trevor Bailey, like his father before borders of grass which enable insects him, has been coppicing the trees to and wild flowers to flourish. make hurdles all his working life. Then it was off to Kirton Farm With the ease which only comes from Nurseries, or The Hairy Pot Plant the highest levels of skill, Trevor used Company as it is known, next to the a billhook to split a long, whippy wand Rack and Manger. Over 25 years in moments (see photo). He works Derek and Caroline Taylor have built alone but is never lonely enjoying the up a thriving business producing wild life and the seasons as he follows finished plants for nurseries, garden the craft which is little changed from centres and their own retail website that described by Hardy in The plus a specialist propagation unit Woodlanders. supplying young plants to other nurseries for growing on. The famous hairy pots sourced from Sri Lanka, the wooden labels and boxes, the use of organic fertiliser, the heating and watering systems are all designed to have as little environmental impact as possible. By now, in a new development, the first wind turbines in the area should have been installed, supplying nearly all of the nursery‘s electricity. In the excavations for this, The tractors, driven with impressive traces of what may be Iron Age field élan by Stan and Charlie – especially systems and early industrial workings when reversing - towed the trailers to have been revealed – a reminder that Rookley Farm. Here, Richard Monk, we are only the latest inhabitants of also following in the footsteps of his this area which has been farmed and father, Tony, grows crops which are worked for over two millennia. harvested to provide high quality Back at Rookley Farm, there was a seeds. The visitors were stunned to welcome cup of tea and splendid learn the cost of sophisticated scones and cakes to end this most equipment which is only used for a enjoyable and informative day. few weeks each year. Russell Frost, an Thanks to all those who made it agronomist, explained how farmers possible. maximise yield with the most efficient, Lizbeth Rake 27

The Inspector General On Saturday 10 July we set off to offers to pay the bill and to take watch this year‘s summer production Khlestakov on a tour of the town. by the Stockbridge Amateur Dramatic Khlestakov, under the impression that Society (SADS), held as usual in the he might be arrested for failing to pay garden of The Burrow in Longstock. his bill and not wanting to upset the The play is set in a provincial Russian Mayor, goes along. town. It starts with an introduction to The town‘s officials decide that the the Mayor (Barry Webb) and the only way to protect their positions is to senior town officials, including the bribe the Inspector. Khlestakov magistrate (John Barlow), the quickly latches on to this idea and Commissioner for Health (Anthea suggests the idea of a ―loan‖ to all of Coulson), the Director of Education his subsequent visitors. Meanwhile (Frank Saunders) and the town‘s Osip realises that the town have doctor (Alan Glynn-Jones). They have mistaken Khlestakov for someone else been summoned by the Mayor to be and persuades him that they should informed that the town is about to be leave the town rapidly. inspected by a Government Inspector. Soon after Khlestakov and Osip leave Indeed, the Inspector may have already town, the postmistress (Debbie Smart) arrived and be carrying out the ―finds‖ a letter sent by Khlestakov to a inspection incognito. The ensuing friend in St Petersburg describing how discussion reveals the extent of Khlestakov has taken a large amount corruption and incompetence within of money and expressing his low the senior officials and their opinion of the town and everyone in it. consequent horror of this being The play ends with the arrival of the discovered by the inspector. At this real Government Inspector. point the meeting is interrupted by Dobchinsky and Bobchinsky (Leslie This was another fine performance Gold and Sarah Webb), played as a from SADS, with strong performances magnificent pair of tweedledum and from the whole cast of 24 – too many tweedledee figures. They bring news to mention them all by name. They of an odd character who has been were ably supported by the production staying at the Inn for the past week. crew. This was a very enjoyable Everyone jumps to the conclusion that evening, with special thanks to Nigel this is the Government Inspector. In and Sarah Lynn for allowing hundreds fact, it is Khlestakov (Terence Cook), of strangers into their garden. Roll on a minor civil servant. He and his next summer. servant Osip (Chris Hall) are stuck in David Haydon the town. He has lost all of his money at cards and is unable to pay his bill. The Mayor, under the impression that this is the Government Inspector,

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The Somborne Players

Pantomime 2012 Performing Arts Bursary The start-up meeting for the The Somborne Players invite applications Somborne Players‘ 2012 for a bursary to support education or training pantomime will be held in the in the performing arts. The bursary is open Epworth Hall on Thursday 8 to anyone over 18 living in the Sombornes September 2011 at 7.45pm. (including Ashley, Horsebridge and Brook) Auditions will be held at this who intends to pursue a career in the meeting. Members and non- performing arts, including related technical members welcome. activities. The bursary is intended to help If you are interested in performing someone pursue a course at a suitable, or helping with the panto in any recognised institution. The bursary will be other way then we would love to awarded solely at the discretion of the Players‘ committee. Applications must be see you. If you are unable to come to this meeting then please submitted, in writing, by 15 September 2011. For more information please contact contact us to register your interest. the Somborne Players: The performance dates are 17 and [email protected] or 18 February 2012. 01794 388120.

The Somborne Players present An Evenings Entertainment on the theme of “Hatch, Match and Dispatch”

The Somborne Players bring you a themed evening of entertainment, games and hot food. All welcome. Village Hall Saturday 17 September 7.30pm

If you are interested in providing part of the entertainment or would like to join the Somborne Players please contact David Haydon on 388120 or email [email protected]

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King’s Somborne Arts & Crafts Committee THE SOMBORNES & ASHLEY 3RD OPEN ARTS & CRAFTS EXHIBITION

OCTOBER 29th and 30th 2011 Calling creative villagers! Show local people your talents Come and exhibit at the above event No cost to exhibit Nominal charge for those wishing to sell Details to follow Contact: Madeline Edmonds 389014 or Pam Watson 388429

Watercolour day The Watercolour Day dawned with We sallied forth, fortified with this glowering skies and cool temperatures, information, to choose a subject to so our plans of sitting outdoors all day paint—we did not venture far, and were rather curtailed. However, 14 everyone found something of interest enthusiastic participants brought their and beauty to paint around the bridge paints to the Epworth Hall. and houses at the junction of Old Wendy Jelbert had a difficult job, as Vicarage Lane, Muss Lane and abilities ranged from the total novice to Winchester Road. very experienced and skilled Having quickly sketched our subjects, watercolourists. However, she we returned to the shelter of the hall explained clearly techniques and rules and spent a happy few hours with paint that would help us all. As a complete and water and help from Wendy. I was beginner, I had never heard of the pillar amazed at the beauty and skill of the of shades from 1-6 (6 being black and 1 work of some of the participants, but being white), or considered that you we all left with a feeling of having could look at any object with these spent a fruitful, productive and shades in mind, and your drawings interesting day. It may well be a day would spring to life! Wendy also that will be repeated in future, so do get explained how to position the focal in touch with Madeline Edmonds point on your paper, lead the eye into (389014) or Pam Watson (388429) if the picture and the factors that were you would be interested. necessary to create a focal point. Sue Jackson

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Parish Councils Recent local government elections have brought parish councillors, or rather the shortage of candidates to be parish councillors, into the news. Some people dislike the publicity of electioneering but are quite willing to be co-opted and serve if asked individually. As I was. Parish councils were first set up in in 1903 (co-incidentally the same year the King's Somborne Football Club was established) when a priority for the new King‘s Somborne Council must have been the provision of a village burial place, the churchyard having been closed because it was full. Land was purchased on Stockbridge Road. When my great grandfather John Cleverley died he was one of the first to be buried there, in 1911. An interesting side issue then was that a large area at the top of the cemetery needed to be set aside for children‘s graves and to my generation this area is still known as the Children‘s Cemetery. Fast forward one hundred years and the ‗new‘ cemetery itself was now near to being full. So the PC, if it wished to continue to have a burial place within the village, needed to obtain new suitable land. This eventually led, mostly through the good offices of Chairman Ken Tull, to the purchase of adjoining land. It‘s worth recognising here what keeping a village cemetery meant and still means for village residents. It means that for at least the next one hundred years (unless there is another epidemic like the black death) relatives will be able to bury their loved ones here in the village and so be able to visit and maintain their graves without the need to travel to Woodley Cemetery or elsewhere. It also means that, if they so wish and plan for it, they can, when the end comes, be reunited with their loved ones here in the village. Just as friend and far sighted Chairman, the late Kenneth Tull has recently been, following many years of dedicated service to the Parish Council and the people of the parish. Antiphony These bones, are bones of yours created, pink feet held high the smack the cry. And time, impatient, passes by until, beneath this field this burial place, this hallowed ground, these bones with your bones lie. Full circle Mother, you and I. Frank Cleverley

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A huge Thank You to King’s Somborne Responders This week I experienced first-hand situation would have deteriorated had how vital the role of Community they not been on hand. I want to Responder is here in King‘s express my sincere thanks to both Somborne. Unfortunately, an allergic Responders for helping me so much reaction to penicillin sent me into that day. Anaphylactic shock. Within a few Heartfelt thanks also to a wonderful minutes of dialling 999, two friend Catherine who rushed to assist Responders arrived. These lovely and was fantastically supportive and ladies very quickly assessed the helpful, and to my husband Tim who situation, asking all the right questions took control of the situation with in a warm but professional way. The customary calm efficiency, despite oxygen and monitoring they provided being miles away and mutterings that I until the paramedics arrived was vital. ―would do anything to get attention Just as important was their calming and a free ride in an ambulance‖. manner. Assurances that my young Thanks also to everyone for their good daughter, who was also in the house, wishes since then, I am very touched was checked and in safe hands were a and feel very fortunate. great relief. I have no doubt that my Ethna Long

King’s Somborne School Association Dates for your diary: 1st October – Family photo session 14th October – Quiz Night 4th November – Bag 2 School collection Ongoing Fund Raising ..... Gardeners: If you fancy growing your own fruit or veg at home please take a look at www.rocketgardens.co.uk. Enter the code KINGS-SO206PN in the additional info when you order and the school will get 10%! Wessex Petroleum, domestic oil distributors, will donate 0.5 pence to the school for every litre of fuel bought - just quote reference D29 each time. Telephone 0800 9806175 The School Association consists of volunteers from the local area who organise fundraising events to provide additional equipment and cultural opportunities for our village school. For further details please contact Louise on 01794 389668

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How has your week been? Did you actually do the things you wanted to do or did you find that they were more difficult than you could manage? As people age they can find that criteria for support from Hampshire keeping up with life becomes much County Council‘s Adult Services more of an effort. They avoid doing Department. the things that they have always The Romsey Community Innovations enjoyed or stop looking forward to Team has a Social Worker, new opportunities and challenges. If Occupational Therapist, Nurse and this sounds like you, then your local Support Worker who will help you Community Innovations Team can review your situation and offer you help put you back on the right track. information, advice and support that Hampshire Community Innovations can enable you to maintain your Teams are part of a county-wide independence and get back out into service unique to Hampshire County your local community. We work Council. The teams combine the skills alongside you until you are ready to of social care, health and voluntary take control of the things that matter to sector professionals, working in you. partnership to promote better health For more information please contact and wellbeing for older people. This the Romsey Community Innovations service is specifically aimed at people Team on 01794 526299, or email: aged 55+ who are at risk of losing their [email protected] independence but do not yet meet the Winchester Churches Nightshelter Following Jane Duncan‘s appeal for Ways you can help: support for the Nightshelter in last Join our team of cooks month‘s edition of The Gauntlet, I am Pray for the work of the pleased to report that, so far, four Nightshelter and for the people people have committed to cook a being supported meal at home once a month for those in need at the shelter. The aim is to Donate towards the cost of the provide a simple, nutritious and food being cooked economical meal for 20 people, for Provide tins of fruit example: a chicken casserole with We would also be grateful for empty, vegetables or a cottage pie, and tinned large size ice cream containers for fruit for dessert. Ideally volunteers transporting the food to Winchester. will work in pairs. Of course, more people who taking part means each For more information or to offer help, person cooks less often. please contact Amy Denison (tel: 388889) 34

Women’s Institute At the meeting on 13th July, guest Danish enemy speaker, Mrs. K. Ainsworth, gave an in 878. He interesting and vividly detailed talk on established ‗The Life and Times of Alfred the himself as King of Wessex at Great‘ with the help of visual aids Winchester, which became a great depicting wonderful artefacts from centre of academic learning and Saxon times. Setting the scene, Mrs. wealth. Alfred was a cultured man, Ainsworth, who is an archaeologist, who translated documents from Latin took us back to the Roman withdrawal into English (some survive to this day). in 410. The following Anglo-Saxon He used an ornamented pointer known invasion left Britain to become a pagan as an ‗aestel‘ as a reading aid; some of land from the fifth to the seventh these have been found and can now be century, divided into many small seen in museums. He reconquered kingdoms. In the excavation of Saxon much of the land which the Danes had burial grounds, treasures were settled (known as Danelaw) including unearthed in the form of pottery and London, and paved the way to a united jewellery, including goblets, brooches England. Mrs. Ainsworth concluded and buckles. her talk with a view of the well-known In 597, the Pope sent 40 missionaries, statue of King Alfred, looking over led by St. Augustine, in an attempt to what was his capital restore Christianity in pagan Britain. and was thanked by Linda Aucock for Some settled at Canterbury, while her interesting and informative talk. others spread the word as far afield as After a refreshment break, it was then Northumbria, where monks founded a time to get down to business matters, community at Lindisfarne. chaired by our President, Thelma In 793, the first attack by the Vikings Blamey. Reports were submitted on took place on the north-east coast, with the month‘s activities and terrible destruction of lives and arrangements confirmed for the W.I. Coffee Morning, to be held at 10.30am property. on Saturday, 16th July, at the house of Alfred was born at Wantage in about Sally Wilson. 848 - the grandson of Egbert (‗the first King of England‘) and son of There will be no meeting in August, so Ethelwulf. When Alfred became king we shall next meet on Wednesday, 14th September, at 7.30pm in the in 871, England was disunited and under constant threat. Driven back by Epworth Hall. The guest speaker will the Danes to the West Country, Alfred be Mrs B Fuller, who will speak about took refuge in the marshy area of the ‗Rex Whistler and Mottisfont Abbey‘. Somerset Levels (where he famously All are welcome. burnt some cakes!?). He eventually Mary Gibbs saved his kingdom by defeating the

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Ashley St Mary The tea-party at Ashley last year was a exhibit. The great success. We will be repeating exhibition, the event this year on Sunday 14th which is August from 3.00pm until 4.30pm. most unusual Tea and cakes will be served and and intriguing, will be in place the everybody is welcome. This year there whole weekend from Friday 12th will also be an exhibition by David August until the Sunday. Smith entitled ―The Towpath Years‖. There is no charge for the exhibition or The main part of this work was tea-party but we will be happy to compiled by David while living on a receive donations which will go to the canal boat and consequently is made Churches Conservation Trust. up of many individual pieces which are combined to make up one large From the Churchwardens Once again, we have the Marquee Valley Benefice‘, each church within Markets on each Saturday in August. the new benefice will be independent We hope that the weather will be and will be running their own affairs; kinder to us than it was for the however this will be under the Summer Fair. guidance of the Vicar. That means The Lay Worship Group has we shall still have our own continued to grow in confidence in Churchwardens, our own PCC and helping out at Services. ‗The Service Treasurer and so on. Inevitably, we shall have to continue to raise our of the Word‘ now alternates on every second Sunday of the month with the own Parish Share. In other words, Family Service. However, do check there will be no significant difference the service times at the back of The as to how our parish is organised or Gauntlet each month, as there may be run, the only difference is that we changes if Robert is unavailable due shall be sharing our Vicar with the to his other commitment as Rural Stockbridge Benefice. Officer. No changes will take place until the We continue our meetings with the retirement of Robert in 2012/13, and we, as churchwardens, will continue Stockbridge Benefice, every three months now, planning for the future to keep you abreast of how things are when our two Benefices will join. progressing. Should you have any There seems to be a little concerns or hear rumours contrary to misunderstanding of what this this, please do not hesitate to contact amalgamation means. Although the one of us who will try to help you. new Benefice will be called the ‗Test David Bevan and Sandie Pepperell

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Tiny tots finished for the summer in time at Tiny Tots July after a fun Teddy Bears Picnic and wish them luck. which was held in Ethna‘s garden. Tiny Tots will start again in September Thank you Ethna! and will continue to run in the Parish We said goodbye to Hannah Norton Church every Tuesday afternoon from and Carla Horsfield who leave Tiny 2.00pm to 3.30pm during term time. Tots to move onto adventures new at Christine Ball the Village School. We gave each of 388663 them a small present to remember their Funday Club During the last half term, Funday it. The children always look forward Club has been learning about some of eagerly to the next part of our session Jesus‘ miracles: which is drinks and biscuits! Once - Jesus calming the storm refreshed, we then move onto our - Feeding the 5000 craft activity to which all the children - The miraculous catch bring their own very unique - The wedding at Canaan interpretations of each story which - The healing of the 10 lepers. results in some wonderful art work to Each session the children have take home. enjoyed a normally noisy game linked We have all had great fun and look to the theme of the week which allows forward to another term of Funday them to let off some of their energy! Club when school starts again in We have then listened to an September. interactive story and sometimes acted Christine Ball 388633 the story out or repeated rhymes about

More than 30 ―Friends of the Church‖ Everyone is welcome to join The met in early July for the latest social Friends, whose aim is to preserve the gathering organised by the Committee fabric of the Church. Anyone of The Friends. By kind invitation of interested in learning more should Peter and Bridget Wrangham, a very contact the Membership Secretary, pleasant evening with drinks was David Pye Tel: 01794 388405 enjoyed by all in a delightful garden setting. 37

From the Parish Registers

24th June Funeral Walter William Bamford 2nd July Baptism Phoebe Elizabeth Mortimore (b.13.05.2010) 3rd July Baptism Aidan Leo Foreman (b.12.11.2010) 5th July Funeral Jessie Clarice Barker

Home Group We meet at 8.00pm usually on the third Thursday of each month. We are a relatively small group of Christians from different traditions who meet for informal study, discussion and fellowship and we would very much welcome any newcomers who care to come along and join us. Contact Nigel Coleman on 01794 388449 for more information.

Do you know anyone who is new to the village, is lonely or housebound and who might need some support? If so, please ring Fi Chilton on 01794 388160 and we can arrange for one of our visitors to drop in and see them.

Prayer Meeting We hold our prayer meetings on the first Monday of each month at 2.15pm. We meet for about an hour at Margaret Babb‘s house at ‗Ferndale‘, Winchester Road, when we pray for our parish, families, friends and anyone else in need. If you have any prayer requests there are slips on the table at the back of the church which you may put into the box provided or alternatively phone Rosemary or the Revd. Rob Stapleton on 01794 388223. Our meeting is very informal and we should be pleased to welcome new members. Dulcie Witts 01794 388267 38

Church services in August 2011 Parish Church Methodist Church 7th August—The Seventh Sunday Sunday 7th August after Trinity 10.30am Rev Alan Baxter 8.00am Holy Communion (1662) Holy Communion 10.00am Parish Communion (CW) * Sunday 14th August (baptism) 10.30am Ms Pamela Gilbert Readers: Norman Denison: 1 Kings 19.9-18 Sunday 21st August Patrick Holligan: Romans 10.5-15 10.30am Mr Tom Belshaw Linda Aucock: Matthew 14.22-33 Sunday 28th August 14th August—The Eighth Sunday 10.30am Rev Dr Rosemary Baker after Trinity 8.00am Holy Communion (1662) 10.00am Service of the Word * St Thomas’ RC Church (with baptism) Stockbridge Fi Chilton and Sandie Pepperell 9.00am every Sunday

21st August—The Ninth Sunday St Joseph’s RC Church Romsey after Trinity St Andrew’s RC N. Baddesley 8.00am Holy Communion (1662) Tuesdays: 10.00am Parish Communion (CW) * 10.00am—St Andrew‘s Readers: Bill Lomas: Isaiah 51.1-6 6.00pm—St Joseph‘s May Lomas: Romans 12.1-8 Thursdays: Sandie Pepperell: Matthew 16.13-20 6.00pm—St Joseph‘s Fridays: 28th August—The Tenth Sunday 10.00am—St Andrew‘s after Trinity Saturdays: 8.00am Holy Communion (1662) 6.00pm—St Joseph‘s 10.00am Matins Sundays: (Followed by short Holy 9.15am—St Andrew‘s Communion) 11.00am—St Joseph‘s Readers: Sandie Pepperell: Jeremiah 15.15-21 Guy Boney: Matthew 16.21-end 6.00pm ALiVE—Songs of Praise Service Wednesdays 10.00 am Holy Communion (1662) * *Stay for coffee and biscuits after services marked * 39

The Vicar has the last word Dear All, The story goes that a little girl during one of her lessons at school was busy drawing a picture. When the teacher asked her what she was drawing, the girl told her that she was drawing a picture of God. The teacher explained that nobody knows what God looks like. The little girl sighed impatiently and said, ‗Well, they will when I‘ve finished.‘ This September, the question will be, what do you think angels look like? Our Angel Festival (11th - 25th September, see page 23) will be a time for a bit of fun, but it is also intended to get people thinking about angels and their place in the Bible and in the world today. Angels are supernatural creatures whose job is to serve God. The word ‗angel‘ simply means a messenger and we find in the Bible that one of the jobs that angels were given was to pass on God‘s message to His people at certain significant and important moments. Naturally they become a bit touchy when people don‘t believe them. On the other hand, angels enjoy having fun. In the story of the angel visiting Mary in Nazareth, you can sense the enthusiasm he felt as he gave her the message that she was to be the mother of Christ. In the fields outside Bethlehem, the angels who brought to the shepherds the message of Jesus‘ birth were having a wonderful time celebrating. Jesus also tells us that the angels in heaven rejoice when somebody repents and turns to God. We often find angels being given other jobs to do. The Cherubim were fierce winged creatures who guarded the way into the presence of God. Six-winged Seraphim had the job of simply being in God‘s presence and offering constant praise. Daniel talks of angels being guardians of countries and Revelation speaks of angels as guardians of churches. Jesus speaks of angels as being guardians of those who believe in him. Then again, we are told that people have entertained angels without knowing it, so perhaps an angel might look like an ordinary person, but that wouldn‘t be as much fun as using our imagination. In September we celebrate the feast of St Michael and All Angels, when the angels overthrew Satan, the causer of trouble and the accuser of God‘s people. The battle between good and evil continues to this day, but we are not alone in our battle against evil. When there are problems to overcome, I always find comfort in the stained glass window at the west end of our church, which depicts this victory. What do angels look like? Now is the time to wonder, imagine and dream. We would like you to take part in the Angel Festival and show us what you think. Wishing you every blessing. Yours in Christ,

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