THE GAUNTLET the LOCAL MAGAZINE for the SOMBORNES and ASHLEY Test Valley Clay Pigeon Shoot Report and Team Photos PAGES 6 and 7 Also in This Issue

THE GAUNTLET THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE SOMBORNES AND ASHLEY Test Valley Clay Pigeon Shoot Report and team photos PAGES 6 and 7 Also in this issue:

John of Gaunt Awards Winners announced PAGE 11

King’s Somborne Church of England Primary School A School to be proud of with another Good OFSTEAD PAGES 34 AND 35

Messy Church Starting A church with a difference! Page 36

New Vicar arrives with the ‘Last Word’ JUNE 2012

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Catering at outside venues a speciality

The team at The Crown look forward to welcoming you Credit/Debit Cards Accepted vi vii viii High quality mixed hardwood logs Seasoned and stored in large sheds adapted for maximum drying to ensure low moisture content Hardwood kindling and small logs also supplied in sacks All cut by ourselves and sourced from well managed and sustainable local woodlands. Various log lengths, sizes and delivery options available. All year round delivery. Stacking service also offered. Round logs and cordwood also available. For best local value call: Tel: 01794 389603 Mob: 079000 61158 Email: [email protected] King’s Somborne The Woodland Firewood Company Ltd

OWTONS TRADITIONAL BUTCHERS AT KIMBRIDGE FARM SHOP BEEF, LAMB & PORK SOURCED FROM LOCAL FARMERS QUALITY LOCAL PRODUCE INCLUDING ICE CREAM, APPLE JUICE ALES, HONEY, FRUIT & VEGETABLES, BREAD, CHEESE & AWARD WINNING SAUSAGES FROM OUR CHALCROFT FARM SHOP. FIND US ON FACEBOOK [email protected] KIMBRIDGE FARM SHOP, KIMBRIDGE LANE, NR ROMSEY, SO51 0LE 01794 341681

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xii

The Somborne & District Society

Talks on Local History and related Subjects. Visits to places of interest Visitors always welcome!

Meetings held on the 4th Wednesday of each month At 8.pm in King’s Somborne Village Hall

Contact : Mary Pollock 01794 388422 www.thesombornes.org.uk

xiii xiv

Useful names and numbers Parish Church Schools Vicar: Rev Jonathan 01264 810810 Somborne Pre-School 07530 893773 Watkins King’s Somborne School 01794 388381 Reader: Sue Holligan 01794 388484 Test Valley School 01264 810555 Wardens: Police David Bevan 07769682696 Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Sandie Pepperell 01794 388021 Police Station 0845 045 45 45 PCC Secretary: Urgent calls 999 David Bevan 07769682696 Neighbourhood Watch Treasurer & Gift Aid Sec: Andrew Brock 01794 388227 Claire Bevan 01962 820482 Parish Council Flowers: Clerk: Peter Storey 01794 389688 Penny Ward 01794 389649 Borough Councillor Methodist Church Tony Ward 01794 389649 Minister: County Councillor Revd Dr Rosemary Baker 01962 880383 Andrew Gibson 01264 861138 (evenings only) Member of Parliament Steward: Marion Downing 01794 388121 Caroline Nokes MP Roman Catholic Churches Romsey & Soton North Conservatives 01794 521155 St Joseph’s Romsey and Village Correspondent St Andrew’s North Baddesley 02380 273882 Dawn Harrison 01794 388418 Village Hall Village Website Bookings: Val Chapman 01794 388009 www.thesombornes.org.uk [email protected] The Gauntlet Epworth Hall Editor: Harvey Saunders 01794 388029 Bookings:Marion Downing 01794 388121 Advertising: Sue Byram 01794 388521 Distribution: Norman Denison Doctors 01794 388889 Stockbridge surgery 01264 810524 Please deliver articles for www.stockbridgesurgery.co.uk The Gauntlet to Broughton surgery 01794 301210 [email protected] or The Post Office. Out of Hours service 0844 811 3060 Pharmacy Copy date is no later than 5.00pm on the 15th of the month please. Stockbridge Pharmacy 01264 810624 1

Village Directory Allotments Friends of King’s Somborne Contact: Frank Fahy 01794 388314 Church Art exhibition committee Contacts: Anthony Chilton (Secretary) 01794 388160 Contacts: David Pye (Membership) 01794 388405 Madeline Edmonds 01974 389014 Pam Watson 01794 388429 Football Club Badminton Club Contact: Andy Gannaway 01794 388733 Every Monday 7.30pm. Footpath walk Contact: Sue Jackson 01794 388884 Monthly walk on Parish footpaths on the last Baby & Toddler Group Sunday of each month. Starting at 2.00pm at the Village Hall car park. Please check the Village Informal friendly get-together for babies, Diary or village website for details. pre-school children, parents and carers. Contact: David Haydon 01794 388120 Every Wednesday 10.00am - 11.30am in Alison Seymour 01794 389219 the Village Hall. Contact: Frances Barber 01794 388759 French Twinning Association Bellringing Regular exchanges with St Paul du Vernay in Normandy Every Monday 7.30 - 9.00pm. Contact: Louise & Andrew Causer 01794 Contact: Sue Spurling 01794 388266 389364 Catherine Edwards Trust FunDay Club Provides grants to village students Meets after school on Mondays for children Contact: Frank Cleverley 01794 388399 in years Reception to 4 Cricket Club Contact: Sue Holligan 01794 388484 Contact: Frank Fahy 01794 388314 Garden waste scheme Christians Together in Somborne Garden waste will be collected in w/c 11th and District and 25th June. Welcome all to open and ecumenical Home Group meetings and services throughout the Biblestudy group. Usually third Thursdays year. of the month at 8.00pm. Contact: Nigel Coleman 01794 388449 Contact: Nigel Coleman 01794 388449 Community Responders Horticultural Society Contact: John Vanderpump 01794 388647 Meets for two talks and one visit per year Dial-a-Ride and organises the annual Flower Show. Contact: Pollyann Monk 01794 388482 Trips to Romsey every Wednesday, for senior citizens and disabled people, at Household waste 2.00pm. Fare £2.70. Non-recyclable household waste (black Contact: Dick or Zoe 01264 356808 bins) will be collected in w/c 11th and 25th Drop In June. Coffee morning at the Epworth Hall. Recyclable household waste (brown bins) Every first and third Tuesday at 10.30am. will be collected in w/c 4th and 18th June. 2

Village Directory (continued) (One or two days late in Jubilee week.) Somborne Needleworkers Messy Church Meet each Thursday at 2.00pm at Fun, creative event (with tea!) for children Nutcher’s, 3 Nutcher’s Drove. of all ages and their families. 3rd Sunday Contact: Eileen Humphreys 01794 388427 of each month in termtime, 4.00 - 5.30pm at Epworth Hall. Somborne Players Contacts: Pam Gravenor 01794 388531 Regular, informal play readings and Sam Barnes 07742 077114 outings. Contact: Melanie Haydon 01794 388120 Neighbourcare Transport to essential appointments and Sombornes Pre-School other small tasks. Early Years education for children aged Contacts: Sue Jackson 01794 388884 from 2 to school age. Jenny Crouch 01794 388882 Contact: Zoe Stevens 07530 893773 Mobile Library Somborne Sessions Tuesday 26th June: Details: www.sombornesessions.co.uk 2.00 - 2.25pm Up Somborne Contact: Doug Stammers 01794 389192 2.45 - 4.00pm Church Road Somborne Singers Information: 02380 267393 Weekly meetings to sing ballads, songs from shows etc. every Tuesday at 7.45pm Pastoral Care Group in the Parish Church. Contact: Fi Chilton 01794 388160 Contact: Howard Rowe 01794 388400 Prayer Group Table Tennis Please contact Rev Robert Stapleton on Meet Sunday mornings 11am to 12noon 01794 388223 Village Hall. School Association Contact : Frank Fahy 01794 388314 A group of volunteer parents meeting twice Tiny Tots a term to organize social and fund-raising Meet in the Parish Church each Tuesday at events to benefit the school and its pupils. 2.00pm. Contact: Caroline Andrews 01794 389231 Contact: Christine Ball 01794 388633 Scouts Women’s Institute Beavers Wednesdays 5.45 - 6.45pm Meets on the second Wednesday of each Cubs Thursdays 6.30 - 8.00pm month at 7.30pm in the Epworth Hall. Scouts Wednesdays 7.00 - 9.00pm Contact: Linda Aucock 01794 388542 Contact: Janice Waterman 01794 388588 Somborne & District Society Working Men’s Club Various entertainments throughout the Meetings held on the fourth Wednesday of month. each month at 8.00pm, usually in the Contacts: Janette Batchelor 07582 552666 Village Hall. Trina Masham 07852 257596 www.communigate.co.uk/hants/somsoc Contact: Mary Pollock 01794 388422 Village Agents Contacts: Sue Jackson 01794 388884 Lin Curtis 01794 389373 3

The King’s Somborne Diamond Jubilee Cricket Match and Afternoon Tea Saturday 2nd June 2pm – 5pm The Village Hall and Rec, King’s Somborne

INCLUDING Grand Opening of Jubilee Room at 2pm in the Village Hall, Jubilee Exhibition, Story tent, Face Painting, Beer tent, Raffle, Cakes, Sideshows, and much more

To all tennis players Advance notice Tennis Tournament - 2nd September 2012 We are organising an informal Mixed Doubles Tennis Tournament in the King’s Somborne area on Sunday 2 September 2012 and very much hope that you will take part. The entrance fee, which will include lunch with drinks and tea, will be £17.50 per player with a reduced fee of £12.50 for those under 18 or still in full time education. It would be helpful if you could organise your own tennis partner, but if not we shall try and pair people up. The winning couple on each court will go through to a play-off in the knock-out stage. Cream teas will be served. Non-players will be very welcome as spectators and for tea (£5). Please put this date in your diaries now and if you would like to play contact David Evans on 01794 388246. An entry form will appear in later editions of The Gauntlet. 4

Farewell Interview with the Headmaster The recent very successful OFSTED King’s Somborne. The role of a inspection on King’s Somborne Headteacher in recent years has Primary School would appear to be a brought many challenges. Changing fitting and appropriate swansong for expectations and the rights of pupils Mr Nick Winning who retires at the and responsibilities of educators, have end of the present term after 15 years necessitated the need to keep pace with as Headteacher of the school. The changing Government demands. school was rated as Good in the areas So, what is Nick’s philosophy of of Pupils’ Achievement, Quality of education? He speaks with enthusiasm teaching and leadership and of a fascination with what makes management, and Outstanding in people tick and how they learn. At the behaviour and safety of pupils and so it end of his career his love of teaching is was perhaps inevitable, the local press as strong as ever as is his belief that spoke of the school’s ‘Winning Ways’. each child should be enabled to fulfil Nick was brought up in a small village their potential, which is reflected in the near to Oxford and it was here that he school’s motto ‘Everyone achieving received his own primary education their best’. He recognises the before moving onto Grammar school. importance of views, ideas and This was followed by study at Exeter opinions in addition to nurturing a love College, part of Oxford University. of learning and the development of Following graduation Nick undertook learning skills. Parents and other a PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate in visitors to the school will have seen Education) at Exeter University. On evidence of the success of this completion of this Nick taught in the approach in the pupils’ behaviour, Exeter area, mainly in the city centre – attitude to learning and relationships a very different environment from with each other both in and out of the King’s Somborne. Nick also worked school environment. Certainly, Nick for three years as a hospital porter in a has proved a more than worthy geriatric psychiatric hospital – an successor to the Reverend Dawes. experience which took him out of his The future will, no doubt, bring new comfort zone, bringing him into challenges. Nick would certainly like contact with some patients who had to return to Uganda and Ghana, and we few or no family contacts. do hope he will take with him happy Nick has now lived in Hampshire for memories of his time in King’s 22 years with his wife and their 2 now Somborne to match the gratitude of grown up children, his time at King’s pupils, parents and friends of the Somborne school being preceded by a school. deputy headship in Alton and the Jo Finch headship of a school very similar to 5

Test Valley Clay Pigeon Shoot 2012

was shining making ideal conditions for spotting the ‘clays’ as soon as they left the traps. Some teams were more successful than others as the final team scores ranged from 394 to 147 after shooting 100 clays from eight stands and then two very exciting th flushes when clays come On the 11 May the clouds parted, the from all directions at different heights sun came out, the Valley was alive to th being shot by the team together. the sound of ‘12 Bores’ and the 4 Test Valley Charity Clay Pigeon Shoot The Ladies Top Gun was Kate Bevan was under way. Thirty teams, one from Ickenham scoring 76 and the hundred and twenty shooters had entered from as far away as Ashford in Kent to the East and Westbury in Wilts to the West, not to mention thirty from The Sombornes, Ashley and Houghton. Following 24 hours of almost continuous rain it was a ‘little’ soggy underfoot but this was no deterrent as there was a gentle breeze and the sun

Philip Parker with his prize for ‘Side by Side’ Men’s Top Gun was Mike Mullett from Sherfield English with a score of 84. The winning ladies Team scored 381 points and the Men's team 394, including the scores made on the flushes. This year there was a special prize for a side by side gun which was won by local man Phillip Parker with a score of 75. There were three other Mike Mullett receiving his prize of ‘Top Gun’ prize categories one of which, the Pool

Shoot, was won by another local - John which three members are from the Perry - with a score of 8 out of a King’s Somborne. I would like to possible 10. The Ladies Top Gun has thank two members of our Fund been won for the last two years by a Raising sub- committee in particular – remarkable young lady, Amber Hill, who was unable to be with us this year as she was competing in the Olympic trials for the Skeet shooting event and a message of good luck from all at the shoot was sent to her. At the time of going to press I cannot say exactly how much was raised for the two charities, but despite the auction not raising as much as previously I am confident we will still have raised more than Colin Reeve who made the original last year. We had a wonderful selection of prizes and auction lots all donated suggestion of holding a Clay Pigeon by our various sponsors to whom of shoot for fund raising and without whose technical knowledge the shoot course we are very grateful for their could not have taken place and also support and generosity. Tony Brooke Webb who was This event takes an amazing amount of responsible for all the printing and arranging and it could not have much more and must be particularly glad that he can relax a little now and spend some time on his boat. It was a very successful day and I am of course very grateful to everyone whether committee members or volunteers for your support. If you would like to see more photos then please refer to our website www. tv - charityclayshoot.org.uk. happened without so many volunteers from the village. There were people If you may be interested in helping to from the Church, the W.I., the organise next years shoot to be held on Somborne Needleworkers, the 10th May 2013 please contact me. Somborne Society and the wives of committee members. The delicious John Vanderpump lunch was arranged by the Winchester 388647 Branch of Cancer Research U K of 7

Parish Assembly Meeting in April In February this year, the Parish Council’s John Werrett first started to think about the forthcoming Parish Assembly. Encouraged by the successful format of the November Community Workshop, John wanted to recreate a similar atmosphere and to host an event which was not just about the Parish Council but also a celebration of Parish life. It wasn’t long before locals began to get an inkling of what was planned with requests for photos, volunteers for tea-making and the pre-Assembly advertising which promised a new style format. On the evening of 19th April, Village Hall doors opened an hour early and, by 7.00 pm, the hall was busy with locals chatting over cups of tea and biscuits with councillors or watching the slideshow presentation entitled ‘Our Parish through the Seasons 2011/12’. The rolling presentation contained 70 slides and over 120 photos of Parish events such as sporting tournaments, fetes, music, new developments and schemes. Display boards provided council information under the theme ‘What your Parish Council does for You’. There was also an opportunity to talk with the guest speaker, Captain Richard Murray from Middle Wallop Training Corps. John Werret commenced proceedings at 7.30 pm and it was official business first. Parish Clerk, Peter Storey, was the first speaker to demonstrate the new style presentation of using slides during his financial reporting. Peter then handed over to John Werrett who gave the Chairman’s report. John began with the Parish Council’s year of change in which three longstanding councillors stood down at the last Assembly, seven were elected without challenge and three more were co- opted. A new Planning Committee now meets on the 1st and 3rd Mondays in the month, a Communications Working Group has published newsletters and a Teenage Recreation Working Group has carried out an online survey. John then outlined the Parish Council’s achievements during 2011/12 which included A3057 speed checks, new noticeboards, bio-diversity site and maintenance such as the telephone kiosk renovation and demonstrated how Parish Council grant aid had assisted the Village Hall development, the Pre-School and the Working Men’s Club. Continuing the theme of the slideshow, John talked about how the Parish continues to thrive through its societies, events and new developments and then reviewed 2012 and beyond. The Chairman’s statement closed on a amusing note as a tailor-made cartoon of each Councillor appeared as John gave individual thanks. It is traditional for the Borough and County Councillors to give a brief report at the Parish Assembly. Tony Ward spoke on many TVBC matters including the local economy, environment, communities and his lead on the Village Design Statement. Andrew Gibson outlined how the Hampshire County Council budget

8 is spent and what has been achieved over the past year. They were followed by the final speaker of the evening which was the representative from Middle Wallop. The evening ended with ‘Parish matters’ during which parishioners raised subjects of their choice. These included poor visibility at night, tasteful street lights, the dangers of the A3057 and affordable housing. On the whole, the Parish Council were happy with the new format although there will be improvements to next year’s Assembly such as a shorter length and perhaps a brief interval with refreshments. We are grateful for the many emails, congratulating us on the new style Assembly and for the feedback. The Council extends its thanks to all those who contributed; the parishioners who emailed photographs for the slideshow, the Somborne Society who supplied the projector and display boards, the Village Hall Management Committee and Diana Herbert, Wendy Storey and Penny Ward who served the refreshments. Thanks should also go to speakers Peter Storey, Geoff Herbert, Tony Ward and Andrew Gibson, and also to Andrew Brock for his slick operation of the speakers’ slides. Finally, many parishioners have since complained that one person was not thanked on the evening and so that omission is addressed here. Congratulations to John Werrett on achieving such a successful Parish Assembly and thanks from the Parish for all his hard work during his first year as Chairman of the Parish Council.

Forthcoming Council meetings Monday 11 June - Epworth Hall at 7.00pm. Then 2 July and 6 August 7.00pm

Planning Meetings will be held: 11th and 26th June, 2nd and 16th June, subject to there being applications to consider.

Dawn Harrison Village Correspondent

Full Minutes are at the Post Office, Martin’s Stores & www.thesombornes.org.uk Subscribe to King’s Somborne Parish Council Newsletter! Send your email address to the Parish Clerk at [email protected]

From the Borough Councillor

Planning for the Future Event The flyer in this month’s Gauntlet is about an exciting new event to launch the creation of an extended Village Design Statement. I am looking for many volunteers from every part of the community to help produce this comprehensive report over the next twelve months. Full details of the event are in the flyer and at www.yourcommunityplan.wordpress.com Waste paper Recycling If you put newspaper in the paper bin at the recreation ground it is worth £60 per ton but if you put it in your home brown bin its only worth £40 per ton. So if you are recycling your bottles, clothes and aluminium foil at the recreation ground save up your newspapers and take them as well. Volunteer Mini-Bus Driver We are looking for ways to run mini-bus trips for our less mobile residents to places like Mottisfont and Hillier Gardens. This would be just a few times a year and we still have to find the funds. It all becomes more feasible if we had our own driver's. If you have a current MiDAS Certificate or would be prepared to become qualified please contact me. Regular training courses are run in Romsey and Andover. The course lasts a morning (for standard minibuses) or a whole day (for accessible minibuses), plus a separate individual driving assessment on the road, lasting up to 90 minutes usually held on a separate day. Chuggers Mix charity and muggers and you get the word chuggers used to describe door to door and street fund raisers. Often they represent national charities and ask you to sign up for donations by direct debit. They are becoming a major nuisance and being on commission can be very aggressive and persistent. You cannot be sure they are what they claim whatever the badge they show you. Our advice in TVBC is never sign up to anything on the street nor your doorstep – a simple no is always the safest replay and there are lots of safe ways to donate to charity if you want.

Cllr Tony Ward 389679 [email protected] www.cllrtward.com http://Twitter.com/cllrtward

The John of Gaunt Award

Once again, entrants in the annual John Robyn and Isobel will each hold the of Gaunt Award, organised by the John of Gaunt cup for six months. Somborne and District Society, set a Second prize went to Ellie Chadwick very difficult task for judges, Daphne with a project on ‘King’s Somborne’s Field and Sally Wilson. This History’ and third prize went to one of competition which is open to all pupils the youngest entrants, Hattie Oliver in years 2 to 6 living or attending Hawkins with her project on ‘The school in the Sombornes and Ashley Queen’s Jubilee’ . Runners up who requires entrants to choose a local received book prizes were Jenny history topic—ie. within the Test Barnard, Faith Battams, Helen Valley—to research and present in a Cartwright, Jessica Clayden, Benjamin format of their own choosing. Devlin, Darcy Eckett, Harry Eckett, However, during this historic year of Rowan Horsfield, Yasmin Lawrence, the Diamond Jubilee the topic area was Caitlin Lopich, Holly Millar, Daisy extended to cover the Queen’s reign Natt, Lizzie Norton, Issie Oliver and Jubilee also. The topics chosen Hopkins, Clementine Walsh and Milly were varied as were the methods of Munro. presentation with scrapbooks, letters, a It would be lovely if next year we pretend newspaper report, models, could have more boys entering than interviews, photographs and this year’s 3 – so come on boys and illustrations. In the case of the Jubilee show us what you can do !! Thanks some children had also been able to must go to all the children for their draw on the memories of grandparents, hard work over the Easter holidays and some of whom were pupils themselves to parents, teachers, family members on that historic day in February 1952. and friends for all their support and Hopefully this all helped to bring encouragement. history alive for the children. Jo Finch During a presentation ceremony at the end of a recent school assembly the winners were presented with certificates and money prizes and runners up received a book prize with Jubilee themed personalised bookplates. The joint winners of the first prize were Robyn Grace and Isobel Johnson with a charming and colourful entry entitled ‘All about King’s Somborne and The Queen’. 11

Somborne Players AGM The Somborne Players held their AGM will be the Jubilee on the evening of 10 May in the Scout celebrations on 2 June Hut. Despite the weather 12 members where the Players will run a Children’s turned out. After the minutes of the Story Tent. The Players are organising previous AGM had been read and the village Variety Show on behalf of accepted a few matters arising were the Village Hall committee which will discussed including ticketing take place on 30 June and a varied arrangements for the panto. programme is coming together including a visit from Saxophony, a Jo Finch read her Chairman’s Report saxophone band. There are plans to and ran through the various activities perform a farce in November and that the Players have undertaken in the planning for the 2013 panto has past year including the social gathering in June for a barbecue, followed by a started! fireworks party in November. January The Treasurer’s Report showed saw a backstage tour of the Salisbury another breakeven year and healthy Playhouse and the post-panto meal bank balance. Subscriptions remain at took place at The Crown in April. The the same level. Melanie Haydon is 2012 panto ‘Sleeping Beauty’ took standing down as Treasurer after 12 place at the end of the half-term week years on the committee and six as and was a great success. The two Treasurer. With the exception of Saturday performances were both sell Melanie and Rebecca Rickard the outs. An innovation for 2011/12 was committee were re-elected. AOB was the performing arts Bursary that the mainly concerned with the renewed Players offered for the first time. This proposal that the Village Hall stage was awarded to Harriet Gandy to help should be moved. This would have a support her in her University drama big impact on our ability to stage the course. The forthcoming activities in panto in particular. which the Players will be taking part From the Churchwardens There will be a Thanksgiving Jubilee Service in the Parish Church on Sunday 3rd June at 10.00am which will be led by Sue Holligan and the Worship Team. All are welcome. We are looking forward to welcoming the Rev Jonathan Watkins as our new Vicar at a service on Sunday 10th June during which Jonathan will preach. There will be a special service later on in the year in which all of the churches in the new Test Valley Benefice will take part and to which we hope the Bishop of Southampton and the Archdeacon of Bournemouth will be able to join us. David Bevan and Sandie Pepperell

VARIETY SHOW Saturday 30 June 2012 King’s Somborne Village Hall 7.30 pm. All proceeds to Village Hall. An opportunity to join in an evening of fun filled entertainment ~ whilst supporting YOUR village hall.

King’s Somborne school band ~ Drama ~Saxophony ~ Singing ~ Dance ~ Music ~ Readings ..... and so much more. Refreshments ~ Soft drinks ~ Ices ~ Raffle Wine on sale from 7.00pm.

TICKETS: Adults: £8. 5-16 years: £4. Under 5s; free. On sale from Tuesday 29 May from Corner Stores and Cross Stores.. Note: Children under 5 will require a complimentary ticket also available from Corner Stores and Cross Stores.

This production is being produced by The Somborne Players at the request of the Village Hall Development Committee.

Table Tennis

The recent youth survey of preferences therefore free. From 3rd for sports/leisure developments in June, each player will be King’s Somborne showed indoor table charged £1 for the hour session. tennis to be the top preference. Owing Excess funds will be used as reserve to initially to the support of the Parish cover the summer holiday period when Council, and the subsequent generosity fewer players will be able to attend. of our Hampshire County Councillor, We hope that more adults might come Andrew Gibson, two tables have been and play, particularly because it will be purchased. With the support of the necessary to have a responsible adult Village Hall Management Committee, present at every session; Patrick and I the first session took place on 6th May, will not be available every Sunday. I between 11.00am and noon, with the hope that a few more young players second one a week later. On each will join us soon. With a greater occasion ten youngsters, plus Patrick attendance it might be practicable to Holligan and Yours Truly, took part. extend the sessions to two hours, but Everyone seemed to have a lot of fun. until that happens, we can’t afford the Future sessions will take place each extra cost. Just come along if you are Sunday at the same time. interested or email me. Players must The hire of the Village hall on a wear trainers to minimise damage to Sunday morning costs £9 per hour. the floor. The first four sessions are subsidised Frank Fahy [email protected] by two local gentlemen and are

KING’S SOMBORNE VILLAGE HALL RATES OF HIRE The following will be the hourly rates of hire with effect from 1st August 2012:

Main Hall £9 weekdays and Sundays £11 Saturdays Committee Room £6 all days Jubilee Room £7 all days Pavilion £6 all days Rates for combined room bookings will be issued in due course 14

Kings Somborne & District Horticultural Society

87th Flower Show & Fete with Companion Dog Show

Village Hall & Recreation Ground

Saturday 28th July 2012 Opening 2:00 pm Prize Giving 4:15pm

Lockerley Silver Band, Maypole Dancers Climbing Wall, Obstacle Course, Plant Stall, Tombola, Raffle, Children’s Sports, Bouncy Castle, and many more stalls and games

Entrance to Field and Car Park Free Admission to Hall 50p, U14’s Free Show Schedules available from Martin’s Stores, and Cross Stores

Members are politely reminded that subscriptions are now due. The Members evening outing and BBQ will be held on the 5th July, to visit The Island, at Greatbridge, home of Mr and Mrs Saunders-Davies. A reminder also, that people wishing to exhibit at the Flower Show must register their entries on the evening of Wednesday 25th July at the Village Hall, from 6:30 – 8:00 pm or by post / hand delivery, before 9:00 am on Thursday 26th. The committee regret that we are unable to accept late entries on the day of the Show since all exhibitor spaces are allocated when the hall is prepared on Thursday 26th.

Village Hall News

I am delighted to say that we are put their excess change into a nearly home and dry with the present collection box. Thank you to Michelle phase of refurbishment of the hall. The for thinking up the idea and all her carpets will be going down in the new customers who have made donations. Jubilee room within the next few days The major fund raising event of the and after that the two remaining doors year has been the Clay Pigeon Shoot will be fitted so that the room will be held with the kind permission of the ready to receive furniture and curtains. Compton Estate. A full report appears Outside the second steel beam above elsewhere in this Gauntlet but after the French windows is in position and several days of rain we were lucky on will be clad very soon. The guttering the day because the sun came out, the for the store rooms has almost been mud dried and an extremely enjoyable finished which will just leave the and successful day’s sport was held by protective canopy to be erected above all. Our thanks must go to the many the entrance to the pre-school store. people who helped run the event The official opening of the Jubilee including those in the photo below. room will be on Saturday 2nd June at 2 p.m. and will be performed by Lady Appleyard the Deputy Lieutenant of Hampshire. Everybody is very welcome to come and after the opening ceremony the Diamond Jubilee will be celebrated with a cricket match, tea and cakes and many attractive sideshows. Details of all the events appear elsewhere in this edition. The other good news is that the Parish Council have generously agreed The event should have made an to give the VHMC a grant of £1748 excellent profit which will be shared towards the next phase of between Cancer Research UK and the refurbishment of the hall. This will village hall development fund. mean that we can improve the emergency lighting in the main hall We used lots of marquees and tents for and vestibule as well as replacing old the clay pigeon shoot event which new doors, laying carpet tiles and reminds me that the village hall now redecorating the entrance area. has two excellent large marquees We have also received a generous which we are happy to loan out to donation of £25 from the customers of villagers for parties and other celebrations. The cost of hiring is £80 the Post Office stores who have kindly 16

plus a £10 erection fee but hirers will and the Accelerators, the amazing Beer have to provide willing hands to erect and Music Festival is on Saturday 23rd the tents (under supervision because June and the Variety Show which is they have to be put up in the correct being organised by the Somborne sequence). If you would like to avail Players is scheduled for the 30th June. yourself of this service please give Be prepared to empty your piggy bank Tony Brooke-Webb (388989) or because June is going to be a very busy myself (388248) a ring. month! Finally a reminder that the next very Terry Mackintosh (Hon Chairman popular Somborne Session will be held VHMC) on Friday 22nd June featuring Virgil

KING’S SOMBORNE DOG SHOW (by kind permission of the Kennel Club) Saturday 28th July

The King’s Somborne Companion Dog Show will take place on the Recreation Ground on the same day as the Horticultural Society Annual Flower Show and will start at 2 p.m. This proved a very popular event last year with nearly eighty dogs taking part. Once again we have been lucky enough to attract a top judge, Julia Iles Herbert, to undertake the difficult task of judging the pedigree classes. Julia is certainly up to this challenge as she has judged Labradors at Crufts. There will be a chance for all dogs to take part as Junior Handling and Novelty Classes will also be held. Full details of the classes will be in the next issue of the Gauntlet. There will be plenty of rosettes to be won and lots of fun to be had so do come along with your dog and enjoy the day.

Entry: £2.50 per pedigree class £1.50 per novelty class

For further details please contact: Terry Mackintosh on 388248 or Eileen Reynolds on 388107

What’s on Your guide to events in and around the district Diamond Jubilee Events The first Red Arrows display over Events in Winchester to mark the Southampton is the highlight of Diamond Jubilee start with a concert Cunard’s ‘Three Queens Diamond by the Waynflete Singers and Jubilee Event’ on 5 June. The largest Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra in three ships of the Cunard fleet will sail Winchester Cathedral on 2 June at up the Solent in formation during the 7.30pm. 01962 857275. early morning in preparation for a day of special tributes, celebrations and On 3 June, the ‘One Big Table displays at Mayflower Park. This is Festival of Volunteering’ and Lord the first time that these ships have been Lieutenant’s Picnic will take place in seen arriving and departing their home the Cathedral Close from 12.30- port together. The Red Arrow display 4.30pm, featuring a range of events to will start at 6.00pm, lasting celebrate the local diverse community approximately 25 breathtaking and contribution made by volunteers, minutes. 0800 0086677. food, entertainment and stalls. 01962 840500. On 9 June, the Southampton Concert Orchestra presents a gala concert at The Broadway will host ‘Jubilate, A Hillier Gardens, with a spectacular Street Party Fit for a Queen’ from firework finale. Picnics from 6.30pm. 12.00-5.00pm on 3 June, when you 01794 369318. are invited to bring a picnic, sample some of the local produce for sale or Overlord simple soak up the atmosphere created This four-day military spectacular has by the performance workshops, choirs, now moved to its new home at The magicians and visual art. Free entry. Lawns, Forest Road, in Denmead. www.jubilatewinchester.co.uk From 1-4 June, see arena events, over 300 military vehicles, battle re- Jubilee parties will also be held in Weeke (3 June) and the Worthys (4 enactments and stalls, and join in the spirit of the event by wearing 1940’s June). clothing, military or civilian, on 3 Open again after a major multimillion June. www.solentoverlord.co.uk pound redevelopment, Royal Week at the unique Victorian Fort Nelson, Discounts Portsdown, will see various events for Special offers are available on many all ages including a 21-gun Royal local attractions at the click of a Salute on 4 June. Free entry. 01329 mouse. To see the full range of money 233734. - saving opportunities, visit www.hampshireattractions.co.uk Traditional afternoon tea will be served at Lainston House on 5 June. Bethan Bennett-Lloyd To book, phone 01962 776088. 18

Theatres Salisbury Playhouse Turner Sims, Southampton (01722 320333 or (023 8059 5151 or www.salisburyplayhouse.com) www.turnersims.co.uk) 25 May - 9 June 8 June Salisbury International Arts Festival ‘Viva Madagascar’ (www.salisburyfestival.co.uk) 9 June ______Soton University Symphony Orchestra Nuffield, Southampton 12 June (02380 671771 or John Surman, baritone saxophone www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk) 14 June 19-23 June Natalie Clein, cellist ‘It Could Be Any One of Us’, Alan ______Ayckbourn’s comedy thriller with a Salisbury City Hall twist - a different killer each night. (01722 434434 or 29-30 June www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk) ‘Alice’, twist on Lewis Carroll’s 7 June classic tale with street and hip hop Joan Armatrading dance styles, song and surprises. 13 June 3-7 July The Lady Boys of Bangkok ‘The Yeoman of the Guard’ 24 June ______‘An Audience with Steve Backshall’ The Screen, Winchester ______(0871 9069060 or The Mayflower, Southampton www.everymancinema.com) (02380 711811 04 or 14 and 27 June www.the-mayflower.com) NT Live, ‘Frankenstein (Encore)’ 19-30 June 20 June ‘Legally Blonde’ Met Opera, ‘Wagner’s Dream’ 4-7 July 30 June ‘Porgy and Bess’ Met Opera, ‘Das Rheingold’ ______Outside Theatre Theatre Royal, Winchester 24 June (01962 840440 or ‘Pride and Prejudice’, Lainston House, www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk) 01962 776088 10 June 29 June Chris Addison ‘HMS Pinafore’, Ilyria, Winchester 28-30 June Cathedral Inner Close, 01962 85275 ‘Hamlet’, Blue Apple Theatre 30 June 5 July ‘Richrd III’, Festival Players, ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ Wolvesey Gardens, 01264 362872

Village Diary for June

2nd Opening of Jubilee 14th Needle workers 2.00pm Room Village Jubilee 2.00pm 18th Bell ringing 7.30pm Celebrations 19th Tiny Tots 2.00pm 4th Bell ringing 7.30pm Drop in Club 10.30am 5th Tiny Tots 2.00pm 20th Baby & Toddler 10.00am Drop in Club 10.30am Dial-a-Ride 2.00pm VHMC 7.30pm 21st Needle workers 2.00pm

6th Baby & Toddler 10.00am 22nd Somborne Sessions 8.00pm Dial-a-Ride 2.00pm 23rd Beer And Music 3.00pm 7th Needle workers 2.00pm Festival Footpath Walk 2.00pm VHMC 8.00pm 25th Bell ringing 7.30pm 11th Bell ringing 7.30pm 26th Tiny Tots 2.00pm Parish Council 7.00pm Village Agent Talk 10.30am 12th Tiny Tots 2.00pm 27th Baby & Toddler 10.00am

Over 50s Lunch 12.30pm Dial-a-Ride 2.00pm

13th Baby & Toddler 10.00am Somborne Society 8.00pm 28th Needle workers 2.00pm Dial-a-Ride 2.00pm 30th Variety Show 7.30pm W I 7.30pm

Footpath walk 6.75 miles (10.75 Km) 2.75 hours Sunday 24th June—9.30am start We leave the village via Froghole Lane and up the hill to join the Clarendon Way and on to the Test Way. Turning north we pass Marsh Court before turning north-east to cross the Stockbridge to King’s Somborne road. We follow the footpath along the track to North Park Farm before turning south to return to the village.

District diary for June

1 June climate change’; INTECH lecture, Join The Big Book Group to celebrate 6.30pm. 01962 863791. literature at Winchester Discovery 15 June Centre, 7.30pm. 01962 873603. ‘Midsummer Night of Music’, run by 2 June Trinity Winchester in support of Droxford Country Fair, The Square, at homeless people in the city. Live 12.30pm. 07803 115389. music, entertainment and BBQ from 2-10 June 7.00pm. 01962 842827. National and regional gliding 16 June competition, Lasham Airfield. Old Alresford Village Fair, long 3 June established traditional event on the Romsey Farmers’ Market village green. Free entry, 2.00pm. 3 June 16-17 June Rotary Club of Southampton’s annual Southampton Kite Festival, Lordshill Solent Gardeners’ Summer Fayre and Sports Ground, free admission. Craft; Wide Lane, Eastleigh. 10.00am. 17 June 3-5 June Alresford Rotary 10k Road Race and Hampshire Country Show, Broadlands. Fun Run, 10.00am. 01962 735172. 10.00am-6.00pm. 01283 820548. 19 June 4 June ‘Winchester Warriors, from chainmail Winchester Cathedral organ recital by to Greenjackets’; guided walk from Robert Quinney, who played at the The Westgate, 6.30pm. 01962 840500 2011 Royal Wedding in Westminster 23 June Abbey, 4.00pm. 01962 857275. ‘Get Crafty - The Ultimate Summer 5 June Garden Party’; all day craft workshop Avington Park Box Walk, around Nell at Sea City Museum, 023 8083 4586. Gwynne’s bathing pool, plus wine and 23 June Jubilee Cake; 10.00am. 01962 779260. ‘Summertime with Michelmersh Silver 7 June Band’; Romsey Abbey, 7.30pm. ‘Ocean Creatures’, family workshop at 01794 512987. Sea City Museum. 023 8083 4586. 28 June - 1 July 10 June Goodwood Festival of Speed, Clarendon Way Walk, annual Chichester. 01243 755055. fundraiser for Naomi House. Starts 29 June - 1 July Winchester at 8.30am. 01962 843513. Blissfields Music Festival, 10 June Woodmancott, Winchester. Mini Cooper Register Rally, Beaulieu. 30 June - 1 July 01844 354309. ‘Bugs, Butterflies and Bees’; a chance 10 and 24 June to see some of the 100,000 insects held Winchester Farmers’ Market by HCC Arts and Museum Service at 13 June Chilcomb House. Free entry, booking ‘Our dynamic sun: sunspots and essential. 0845 603 5635. 21

The Somborne and District Society Our speaker at the April meeting was Broughton and Lockerley. whilst the Stephen Ings who spoke on the Congregational Church was stronger in unusual subject of “Non-Conformity in towns. John and Charles Wesley took the New Forest”. Methodism to rural areas. They ordained their own preachers. and The Church of England was unchallenged during the reigns of formed their meetings into circuits. Elizabeth I and James I. Roman After John Wesley’s death, the Catholics faced many impositions and population grew rapidly and people trials for their beliefs, but many noble began building small cottages on waste families remained true to their Catholic land where they could not be turned beliefs. However, during the Civil off. In 1805, a split occurred in War, Parliament abolished the Church Methodism. An American preacher of England. The desire for Non- suggested Open Air and Camp conformity began in rural communities Meetings. His followers became and many new sects arose. As early as known as Primitive Methodists. This the 1620s a group of Anabaptists from teaching appealed strongly to those Holland settled at Downton. people who had built on waste land or Charles I wanted to restore The were farm labourers. Strong in belief, many preachers had difficulty in Church of England. There was much reading the Bible and could not write discussion as who should rule the sermons, but their chapels were full. country, the King or Parliament. This discussion involved religion. The Act The Wesleyans won more support of Uniformity declared all should be from small shopkeepers and business members of the Church of England men and were generally better off. and support the King, but many clergy Towards the end of his talk our could not accept this and were speaker, who comes from a family deprived of their livings. A local with strong Methodist connections, example of this was the Vicar of provided in local dialect, some Houghton who left and began what examples of utterences from Methodist was to become the Congregational preachers. Fortunately for some of us, Church in Romsey. The Conventicle he also gave us a translation! Act sought to forbid rejected clergy Members should note that our evening from preaching. Later, the Toleration visit to Fordingbridge will be on 27 Act of 1689 allowed Non-Conformists June. to meet provided they had a licence from a magistrate or a bishop. Please meet INSIDE the Museum at 6.00pm. Full details will be given at The Anabaptists, later known simply our Meeting on 23 May or else contact as Baptists, established themselves at the chairman (388 422). 22

St. Peter and St. Paul Parish Church King’s Somborne Hampshire

Flower and Needlework Festival 2012 Friday 6th and Saturday 7th July 10.00am to 5.00pm and Sunday 8th July 12noon to 5.00pm Refreshments each day

Entrance free

Ken Wood & the Mixers Black Pig Ben Goddard Rory & Friends Miles Apart The Badgers

A selection of local Hampshire real ales, ciders and a full bar

Hog Roast, BBQ, Fish & Chips, tea and coffee, sweets

A variety of arts and crafts stalls

Bouncy Castles, The Great Alonso, Duck Races

£5 (afternoon), £10 (all day) OR get the Festival Special: an all day Saturday ticket plus Virgil and the Accelerators at the Somborne Sessions on Friday 22nd June for just £15

Tickets now available from www.sombornesessions.co.uk

Get Ready to Rock with Virgil and the Accelerators at the Village Hall! Brilliant Blues Rock power trio ‘Virgil Doors open at 7.30 for 8 pm start. and the Accelerators’ (VTA) is the Tickets are £10 (£12 on the door, if latest act to hit the incredibly popular still available). You can order online at village music series, Somborne www.sombornesessions.co.uk or from Sessions. The band stormed into UK Doug Stammers (389192). Sharp- eyed venues for the first residents of the Sombornes and Ashley time in 2009 and their will have noticed that this is the rise since then has evening before the Beer Festival, been phenomenal. which incorporates a feast of musical Towards the end of acts from 3 pm onwards on Saturday 2010 they released 23 June 2012 on the recreation ground. their first album, ‘The Beer Festival tickets are £10 for the Radium’, which was whole day (£5 for the afternoon voted Number Two in the poll of Top session only) but you can buy a combo Twenty Albums for 2011 run by the ticket for both Virgil and the Beer influential US magazine, ‘Blues Rock Festival, priced at just £15 and a Review’. saving of £5 over buying individual tickets for the Friday and all day VTA is fronted by singer- songwriter Virgil McMahon (lead guitar and Saturday. All tickets can be bought via vocals), with brother Gabriel on drums the Sessions web site or ordered over the phone from Doug. and Jack Alexander on bass. The band covers the likes of Hendrix and the Peter Duncan Blues Breakers, but Virgil also performs his own compositions. This is a bit different from previous acts that have appeared at the Sessions, but we think that KS will never be quite the same again after hearing Virgil, Gabriel and Jack! Tour dates this year include the Cambridge Rock Festival, Upton Blues Festival, the Rhythm Festival and, of course, our very own Somborne Sessions. VTA are playing on Friday 22 June 2012 in the Village Hall.

Neighbourhood Watch The Sombornes area continues to particularly vigilant enjoy a very low crime rate – indeed especially after a one of the lowest in the country. delivery. Check the Sombornes However as spring turns to summer website for further details on and the days start to warm up, there is prevention tips an increased of theft from the garden Home Security Tips with tools left out, expensive pot plants on show, unlocked garden sheds and With summer just round the corner, try home security compromised due to to keep curtains open, and windows open doors and windows etc. and doors locked even when you are in the garden. It is also a good idea to Indeed having had no crime to report keep high value items out of sight and for several months, last month saw one keep your garage/shed doors closed at of the highest for thefts, primarily all times to prevent unwanted garden shed thefts but also some plants opportunist thefts or your garage or and also domestic heating oil. shed being assessed for the potential of Unfortunately Andover police no a burglary when you are not around. longer provide a detailed reports or If you see or hear any trend data as they rely heavily on the suspicious activity, please internet where crimes are recorded alert the police immediately. typically within 24 hours on

‘www.crimereports.co.uk) However Keep up to date with what’s this only provides very basic crime happening! data although you can review recent history and crime in other areas. On the internet? Then subscribe to NHW and get instant updates as news Sombornes Neighbourhood Watch arrives sent to your mail box. Go to does enjoy updates from Romsey www.thesombornes.org.uk and select Rural Policing and from Northern Neighbourhood Watch from the Country Watch Weekly. Any issues Directory tab and follow the with relevant information are available instructions. You will find see loads of for you on the Somborne Website (see general information as well as updates below). from Country Watch and Romsey Diesel and Heating Oil Rural Policing. As mentioned earlier, this still remains Contact us for any further a popular crime target. However over information. Better still join us and the last few weeks, the domestic oil help to make our community safer! price has reduced by nearly 5 pence a Andrew Brock litre, which should take some of the Tel: 388227 pressure off, but please continue to be [email protected]

Lunch is moving! Two dates for your diary again this was unable to make month. On the second Tuesday of the the May Talk, and month, 12th June, Lunch for over-50s. we had a session on will be held in the Epworth Hall as we g a r d e n i n g work alongside the Methodists to give opportunities. So in a great opportunity to get out, meet June Judy will people have a good meal and a chat. explain how to access grants to adapt Furthermore, if you wish you can stay your home to your needs and talk about a small repairs service that they on and play a game—there will be a can organise for you. Do come along to variety to choose from, or if you prefer find out what is on offer. Again, book just to watch and chat, fine. Tea and your place with us and ask for coffee will be served at 3.00pm to round off the afternoon. Please book transport if you need it. Details below, your place through Lin or myself and all over-50s welcome. let us know if you need transport, Sue J 388 884 which we can arrange. Lin C 389 373 Then on the third Tuesday, 26, you are not seeing double, as Judy McPhee Over 50’s Lunch and Games at the Epworth Hall June 12th 12.30pm £5 Ploughman’s Home-made Trifle Tea or coffee

Book Your Place on 388 884 or 389 373

Grants & Repair Services

Epworth Hall Tuesday 26th June 10.30am All over 50s Welcome

Followed by coffee and cake

Book Your Place on 388 884 or 389 373

Education Sunday It was lovely to see the Parish Church Sue Holligan’s talk took the theme of so full for the special Education ‘Who should serve’, after which the Sunday on 13th May. The service led school’s worship team were introduced by Sue Holligan was an excellent to all present. The school band opportunity for all to celebrate the conducted by Alex Needham of the work of the children in school with Hampshire Music Service played three them contributing much to the service pieces before the prayers of and also with the church full of intercession were read by Chairman of displays of work carried out in school. the School Governors John Cartwright and Parent Governor Duncan Natt. With the recent OFSTED inspection rating the behaviour of the children as During the singing of the collection ‘outstanding’ and mentioning the high hymn ‘Brother, sister, let me serve level of respect which they show for you’ a collection was taken for the each other we have every reason to be school’s chosen charity, the NSPCC. proud of our school and all who learn The service was followed by and work there, so the opening hymn refreshments, giving the opportunities ‘Give me joy in my heart’ was most for the congregation to look at the appropriate. Prayers of thanksgiving children’s work on display and to were then read by members of the socialise and enjoy each other’s school’s worship team – namely, company. Florence Horscroft, Lizzie Norton, Jo Finch Joshua Camplin, Tom Couch, Nell Litton, Daisy Natt, Helen Cartwright and Ellie Chadwick. Sue Holligan then read prayers on the theme of ‘Saying sorry’ and this was ‘Laughs and followed by the hymn ‘Our God is a great big God’ which was Crafts’ accompanied by actions. Callum MacBean and Charlie Younger must Are there any knitters, be congratulated on their beautiful crocheters, lace-makers or any other reading from the scriptures of Mark crafters who would be interested in Chapter 1 Verses 29-39. A great treat getting together once a month? If so, was in store for all with the singing of why not join us at the Epworth Hall on th ‘Who’s the king of the jungle’ with a the 4 Wednesday of each month th fantastic accompaniment on drums led beginning 27 June from 7pm to by Sarah Scutt of the Hampshire 8.30pm. Come and have a ‘laugh Music Service, and brilliant actions while you craft’! Contact Marion on very ably demonstrated by not only the 388121 for further details. children but also Mr Winning!!

Election of Churchwardens and Annual Parochial Church Meeting 2012 The annual Parochial Church Meeting the Friends of Ashley St Mary, The of the Parish Church took place on Gauntlet and from the school Monday 30th April in the Church with Foundation Governors. Linda Aucock 32 parishioners present. Before this gave a report on changes in the church meeting the election of churchwardens electoral roll. There are 118 people on for 2012/13 took place – Sandie the roll. In addition to the scheduled Pepperell and David Bevan were re- reports was a report from the Friends elected. The meeting also elected one of the Church. new member onto the Parochial As this was the Vicar’s last annual Church Council (PCC): Jackie meeting in the parish, Sandie Pepperell Masters, and Claire Bevan was re- spoke on behalf of parishioners, elected. thanking him for his ministry here in The minutes of the 2011 annual Somborne with Ashley. Sandie hoped meeting were agreed and signed. he would have a quiet and relaxing Reports were received on the financial retirement and wished both Rob and statements for 2011, on the fabric of Rosemary all the best for the future! the building, and on the proceedings of The Vicar thanked everyone for the Deanery Synod in 2011. The attending the meetings and wished meeting also had reports from the everyone every blessing in the year to Vicar, the Tiny Tots group, the Funday come. Club, the Fundraising group, the David Bevan Needleworkers, Home Group and Secretary Somborne with Ashley Parochial Prayer Group, the Flower Arrangers, Church Council (PCC) Service Schedule from 1st June: First Sunday Parish Communion 10.00AM Second Sunday Communion 8.00AM Family Service 10.00AM Third Sunday Parish Communion 10.00AM Fourth Sunday Communion 8.00AM Matins 10.00AM Fifth Sunday Communion 8.00AM Morning Worship (Led by Worship Team) 10.00AM ‘Alive’ 6.00pm WEDNESDAYS Vicar or Reserved Sacrament 10.00AM Somborne with Ashley has a mid-morning service every Sunday whether taken by the Vicar or Lay Worship Group. 29

Little Somborne Rogation Service A visitor to Little Somborne on the was packed tightly into the church, afternoon of 13th May might have with stools and garden chairs put to thought that he or she had stepped good use in every available space. The back in time. The tiny Anglo-Saxon Vicar kindly shared the altar area church was crammed with ladies in seating with his successor-to-be, Rev. crisp, white, pin-tucked bonnets and Jonathan Watkins, and we were treated brightly coloured shawls, accompanied to a service rich in the language and by men in smocks and kerchiefs, or top music of the 18th-19th centuries, with hats and tailcoats. They carried a rousing hymns and psalms. The Vicar wonderful variety of musical spoke movingly in his sermon about instruments that would have been used belonging – to the earth, to one’s in the 18th and early 19th century. community and to God: an especially ‘The Madding Crowd’, a group who poignant moment for all those of us specialise in the ‘West Gallery’ music who will be so sad to see Robert and Rosemary leave our community at the played at church services during that end of this month. period, had come to make the Vicar’s final service at Little Somborne a very After the service, whilst everyone special occasion. Even the weather enjoyed a very English tea outside at seemed to realise that it was an Somborne Park, Frederick Hervey- important day: the sun shone for the Bathurst thanked Robert on behalf of first time in weeks and gleamed on the all in Little Somborne for everything polished altar and beautiful flower that he and Rosemary have contributed arrangements, and we were able to to the community during their time stand outside the church for the here. We will miss them very much opening hymn and the blessing on the and wish them health and happiness in fields and crops. their well-deserved retirement. The congregation of over 60 people Annabel Hervey-Bathurst Garden of Remembrance in the Churchyard The Garden of Remembrance in the Parish should be allowed. There has been a Churchyard has been closed to new burials relaxation recently to this ruling to allow for some years. However permission can silk or similar fabric. However plastic be sought for additional ashes to be buried flowers will continue to be prohibited. with next of kin. Any proposed memorial Those instructed with overseeing a tablet must comply with the relevant rules churchyard may remove unsightly flowers and instructions and application forms from any grave, this includes both withered must be applied for before permission is natural flowers and decaying artificial silk granted by the Vicar or Archdeacon. flowers. Until now the rule has been that, with the His Honour Judge Christopher Clark Q.C. exception of Remembrance Day poppies Chancellor of the Diocese and Christmas wreaths, no artificial flowers 30

Women’s Institute

Members met on 9 May for the A.G.M. and Resolutions in an unusually spacious venue - the Village Hall. Glasses of wine were handed round and proceedings began with a welcome for W.I. Adviser Eryl continue in their respective offices. Thompsett from our President, Thelma Blamey. Reports were made on the month's activities, including weekly Having completed these business walks, the Book Club and a member's arrangements, Mrs. Thompsett read coffee morning in aid of Associated out the one Resolution to be put before Countrywomen of the World. the A.G.M. of the N.F.W.I. on 30 May, which called on the Government to The Treasurer reported on a healthy "increase investment in the training, financial situation for the year, and the employment and retention of midwives Secretary gave an account of the many in England and Wales to ensure and varied talks given and events services are adequately resourced and attended over the past 18 months since are able to deliver a high standard of the last A.G.M. Our President then care". Views were expressed on this addressed the meeting, praising the matter and the majority of members efforts of her Committee during the were in favour of a "Discretionary past months and other individual Vote" on behalf of King's Somborne members who had been particularly by the delegate to the national A.G.M. helpful. - each delegate casting the votes of W.I. Adviser Eryl Thompsett then took four W.I. branches on that occasion. over the proceedings and gave a brief The next meeting will be at the talk on the history of Denman College, Epworth Hall on Wednesday, 13 June, which was opened in 1948 and named at 7.30 p.m., with a talk by Ms. T. after the long-serving National Selwood entitled "Medicine - it's Federation of Women's Institutes growing all around you". All are very Chairman, Lady Denman. welcome. Mrs. Thompsett then conducted the Mary Gibbs election of our President, as a result of which Thelma Blamey agreed to remain in office for another year. The Committee remains the same, with the exception of Mrs. Stapleton, who is leaving the area and whose place will be taken by a new member. Both the Treasurer and the Secretary will 31

ADVANCE NOTICE 2012 Ride & Stride will be held on Saturday September 8th

Thanks to all our —sponsors, riders and striders and other volunteers we were ranked third in this worthwhile, ecumenical, fund-raising event last year. In total over £50,000 ( the highest ever) was raised by to support and preserve Historic Churches in this area. Please put this year’s date in your diaries now. All offers to participate, help or sponsor so that we can exceed last year’s wonderful total would be much appreciated by the organisers and your Area Coordinator, Norman Denison (Tel.388889 or [email protected].

CYRIL PIGOTT Thanks to everyone who attended my father’s memorial service on 4th May. It was heart warming to see so many there and to know that even after seventeen years away from the village Cyril is still remembered so well. He would have been astonished and humbled by the numbers present and the kind things said. Thank you too to Norman Denison for his generous words in this magazine. It is good that the lifelong teacher now rests within earshot of primary school children after such a long and fruitful life. Elizabeth Jones and family

King’s Somborne Working Men’s Club

Entertainment for the forthcoming months:

Saturday 16th June Race Night Open to everyone Accompanied children welcome First race at 8.15pm YOU MUST BE 18 TO GAMBLE

Saturday 4th August Nearly New/ Starts 2pm Table Top Sale If you would like to hire a table at a cost of £5.00 then please contact Janette Batchelor on 07582 552666 [email protected]

Watch the European Football Championships at The Working Men’s Club Saturday June 9th—Group B Netherlands v Denmark K.O. 1700hrs Club Opens 16.30 hrs Sunday June 10th—Group C Spain v Italy K.O. 1700hrs Club Opens 16.30hrs Monday June 11th—Group D France v England K.O. 1700hrs Club Opens 16.30hrs Friday June 15th—Group D

Sweden v England K.O. 19.45hrs Club Opens 1800 hrs

Tuesday June 19th—Group D England v Ukraine K.O. 19.45hrs Club Opens 1800 hrs

All are welcome—Club Open to Non Members*

*£1.00 Entrance Fee

King’s Somborne Church of England E Primary School – ‘A good school with outstanding features’

’Pupil’s attainment significantly above average’ ‘Pupils reading and communication skills significantly above those expected nationally’ ‘They want to succeed and do’ ‘Excellent, enthusiastic attitudes to learning’ ‘Enrichment programme is a strength of the school’ Quotes taken from March 2012 OFSTED report King’s Somborne Church of England findings of the inspection are Primary School has been graded as a reassuringly consistent with the good school with outstanding School’s own self evaluation of its features as a result of its recent strengths and developmental areas. OFSTED inspection. This is the The narrative in the report shows how school’s first full OFSTED inspection close we were to the outstanding in 6 years (due to the consistent classification under the new strength of the School’s academic framework. As both a parent and results) and during this time the governor, I am really proud of the inspection framework has been revised school; its ethos and its achievements. twice with the ‘bar being raised’ It is an inclusive school which reflects significantly. Indeed, under the its rich history, its founding principles criteria of the latest OFSTED and the community which the school framework which was introduced serves. January 2012, there are now The Inspector was particularly significantly greater challenges and complementary about the children, expectations required to achieve the commenting that they are ‘a real credit good with outstanding recognition to the school’. They are described as awarded. being ‘polite and courteous’ as well as This really is a great achievement ‘displaying excellent, enthusiastic which provides testimony to the attitudes to learning in lessons’, eager dedication and hard work of the staff to share their work and to talk about (our current staff and those who have the many things that make their school worked at the school during recent special. The children’s behaviour in years) and the broader community and around the School is described as which support our school. The report ‘impeccable’. These outstanding accurately portrays the school and the qualities are something which should

34 make all of us, parents, staff and work and commitment to on-going governors alike, feel immensely proud development and improvement, the of each and every child. The children governors for their effective challenge should feel equally proud of and support, and parents/carers who themselves too. have actively supported the School over the years. Another factor which was specifically recognised in the inspection was the I would also like to thank Nick impressive level of continuity which Winning, our Headteacher for his hard has been achieved by the leadership work and commitment to the school team, despite the extent of staff during the last 15 years. Nick is changes that have taken place during retiring at the end of the academic year the last year. There is now an and this OFSTED report is a timely opportunity to build on this and further and appropriate testimony to his work. develop subject area leadership within The report confirms that we have a the teaching team, which in turn will strong and very successful school with contribute to the overall leadership and much to celebrate. It is an enviable management of the school. position to be in as we transition We are never complacent and we leadership to our new Head-teacher continually work hard to ensure that and continue our goal of making the very best educational opportunities something good, outstanding. are being provided for all children at all times. The inspection confirmed that the pupils’ level of attainment in John Cartwright all Key Stages is consistently above Chair of Governors average and pupils make good and often accelerated rates of progress. The specific areas for improvement noted in the report as actions - effectively the ‘missing ingredients’ which would have taken us to an outstanding classification under the new OFSTED framework - relate to the need to challenge learning even further and to sharpen the feedback that the children receive about their work. These requirements have already been recognised by the School and will continue to be addressed as part of the School’s ongoing development and improvement programme. A successful OFSTED has many contributing factors and we would like to thank the staff team for their hard 35

is here!!

Come and join us for our first “Messy Church” at the Chapel on Sunday 17th June, 4.00 – 5.30pm at Epworth Hall, King’s Somborne Methodist Church, Winchester Road, King’s Somborne. SO20 6NZ

It’s a fun, creative & high energy event for all the family, including games, crafts, activities, Bible story, songs and Sunday tea (sandwiches & cakes). It’s messy. And it’s free!! It doesn't matter if you have been to church before or not, everyone is welcome at Messy Church! No need to book, just turn up! NB All children must be accompanied by an adult. For more info, contact Pam Gravenor, tel: 01794 388531 It’s church………………..but with a difference! 36

Since Easter the Tiny Tots have been no longer be able thinking about all the wonderful things to continue in this world: sun, moon, stars, bugs, running Tiny Tots. However it is with birds, fish and animals. great pleasure that I had over the reins to Sam, Kelda and Jane who will During our craft sessions we have continue running Tiny Tots in the made fan-winged birds, peacock pictures, sponge painted fish, fish church on Tuesday afternoons. I have collage pictures and piggy cakes! All really enjoyed my eight years running Tiny Tots and it has been a delight the children had great fun getting getting to know so many children in messy and have made some wonderful the village and watching them grow. artwork. Sadly due to work commitments I will Christine Ball Funday Club Funday Club is an After School club Sadly Christine will be leaving after for years ‘R to Year 4’ which meets h a l f - term as due to work on a Monday afternoon. We aim to commitments she is unable to look at the Christian faith in a fun way continue with the Club, but Sue with the children through games Holligan will continue with help from stories and craft. others.

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.

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 388 449 for more information.

From the Parish Registers 18th April Funeral Eileen Rose Dowling 29th April Baptism Jonah Haydn Parry (b.25.11.2009) 29th April Baptism Isaac Samuel Parry (b. 25.04.2011) 4th May Thanksgiving and Burial of Ashes Cyril Arthur Pigott 6th May Baptism Clara Jayne Perrin (b.6.10.2011) 14th May Funeral Frank Hedley Newell 15 May Funeral Ernest ("Ern") Rickman 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 388 267

Church Services in Stockbridge. Longstock and Leckford

Sunday 3rd June—Trinity Sunday Oliver 8am: Leckford— Said Holy 10.45am Stockbridge—All Age Communion Worship Lay Worship 10.45am Stockbridge—Jubilee Leaders Geoff Cox and Service Sonia Gubb 6pm Leckford—Evensong Sunday 10th June 10—Trinity 1 9.30am Longstock—All Age Sunday 24th June—Birth of John Worship— Lay Worship the Baptist Team 9.15am Longstock—Parish 10.45am Stockbridge—Parish Communion Communion 10.45am Stockbridge—Parish Communion—Revd Hazel Sunday 17th June O’Sullivan 8am Old St Peter—Said Holy Communion *Said Holy Communion Service each 9.15am Longstock— Service of the Tuesday Morning at 9.30am at Word Reader Sue Holligan, Rosalind Hill House, Stockbridge. Lay Worship Leader Beth 38

Church services in June Parish Church *Stay for coffee and biscuits after services marked * Sunday, 3rd June—Trinity Sunday 8.00am No Holy Communion service Methodist Church 10.00am Thanksgiving Jubilee Service Readers: Sunday 3rd June Jane Duncan: Isaiah 6.1-8 10,30am Rev Dr Rosemary Baker Peter Duncan: Romans 8.12-17 Holy Communion John 3.1-17 Sunday 10th June Sunday, 10th June—First Sunday 10.30am Rev Alan Baxter after Trinity Sunday 17th June 8.00am Holy Communion (1662) 10.30am Rev Dr Rosemary Baker 10.00am Family Service—Welcome to Rev Jonathan Watkins—Worship Sunday 24th June Group 10.30am Mr Nick Langham

Sunday, 17th June—Second Sunday St Thomas’ RC Church after Trinity Stockbridge 8.00am No Holy Communion 9.00am every Sunday Service 10.00am Parish Communion (CW) * St Joseph’s RC Church Romsey Readers: St Andrew’s N. Baddesley Norman Denison: Ezekiel 17.22-end Tuesdays: Christina Dumas: 2 Corinthians 5.6-10 10.00am—St Andrew’s (11-13) 14-17 6.00pm—St Joseph’s Linda Aucock: Mark 4.26-34 Thursdays: 6.00pm—St Joseph’s Sunday, 24th June—Birth of John the Baptist Fridays: 8.00am Holy Communion (1662) 10.00am—St Andrew’s 10.00am Matins Saturdays: (followed by short Holy Communion) 6.00pm—St Joseph’s Readers: Sundays: Terry Mackintosh: Isaiah 40.1-11 9.15am—St Andrew’s Patricia Mallock: Luke 1.57-66, 80 11.00am—St Joseph’s 6.00pm ‘ALIVE’ (Speaker: John Yarrien) Wednesdays 10.00am Holy Communion (1662) * (there will be no service on 6th June)

The Vicar has the last word As June begins, the new Test Valley Benefice comes into being. For this month it really means I’m having my “first” word rather than the “last” word as I join you and become the new Vicar of Somborne with Ashley! The first time I actually came to King’s Somborne was to take the Mothering Sunday service at the Methodist Church back in 2009. Later that year I was invited to be the visiting preacher at St Peter and St Paul for Remembrance Sunday. Over the last couple of years I have begun to get to know some of you a little and a number will have met me at various services and events. Well, now my work with you really begins and I realise there is a lot to learn. Fortunately, I will not be alone. I am grateful to many—Robert, Sue, Sandie and David as well as PCC members and others who have been supporting me in the lead up to this time of change. Christians everywhere have just celebrated Pentecost, the time when the friends and followers of Jesus received the amazing gift of the Holy Spirit. He came to help them tell the people that Jesus is alive and call us to reach out to everyone with this good news. In the early days of this month the nation celebrates the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. This incredible woman deserves to be recognised for the gracious way she has served the country during the last sixty years. On the first Sunday of this month, the focus in the calendar of the Church is on the Trinity; Christians think of God as three-in-one, the Father who made us, the Son who loves us so much he died for us and the Holy Spirit who promises to come to us and stay with us in the good times and the bad times. We also think of God as King – one who has been sovereign, not for 60 years but for all of time and beyond into eternity. These are big ideas and if you would like to think about them more then you are welcome at services in any of the churches. As we meet together week by week we look at what it means to be a Christian today. As I begin to work in and around the parish there are several ways if you wish to get in touch with me: Come along to services I am leading Look out for me when I am in the villages ‘Phone the Rectory number: Tel 01264 810810 Email: [email protected] Ask me to come and visit you in your home. My prayers and blessings as we get to know each other better. Jonathan Watkins

Printed and published by the Parish of Somborne with Ashley, Church of St Peter and St Paul, King’s Somborne, Hampshire 40

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Washing Machines, Tumble Driers. Dishwashers Fridges, Freezers and Electrical Cookers/hobs

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JOHN E. SHELDON Builder, Carpenter & Joiner Est 1969

Alterations Renovations Purpose made joinery, Kitchens, Wardrobes, Cupboards fitted. General Property Maintenance

HERON COTTAGE, LOWER BROOK KING’S SOMBORNE, STOCKBRIDGE, SO20 6QR Telephone/Fax: 01794 389559 Mobile: 07721 322051

Contact Val Chapman

017984 388009

[email protected]

WHAT ABOUT YOUR OWN PERSONAL POLITE AND COURTEOUS DRIVER FOR THAT SPECIAL OCCASION? USING YOUR VEHICLE FOR THAT PERFECT DAY WITH A SMARTLY-SUITED, OR FULL-CHAUFFEUR-LIVERIED, DRIVER WITH THE PERSONAL TOUCH THAT SAVES YOU EFFORT AND MONEY. OFFERED BY A MATURE TRAINED AND SECURITY-CONSCIOUS INDIVIDUAL. To discuss your requirements why not contact me - mike clark [email protected] Telephone 01794 388944 or mobile 07789246906 2 dairy cottages ashley king’s somborne stockbridge SO20 6RQ

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HOW PARK FARM

How Park Farm is the mellow family home of Caroline Halse, She is a member of Wolsey Lodges, a consortium of privately owned homes and Britain’s most prestigious group providing home hospitality.

Complete with cats, dogs, guinea fowl, chickens and peafowl, it is set in 7 acres with a lake and woodland - perfect for visitors to relax and enjoy.

Tel: 01794 388716 Website : www.howparkfarm.com E-mail: [email protected]

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Servicing, Repairs & Maintenance

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MOT’s arranged

Local collections & delivery arranged

Contact Neil 01264 810449 07789 075956

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A structured lawn improvement programme Border maintenance programme and soil analysis Hedge cutting, pruning and ground clearance Pest, disease and weed control General garden management

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23 The High Street, Wherwell, Nr Andover Hampshire SP11 7JG Tel: 01264 860400

Hazel, Christopher and the team at William Stewart look forward to welcoming you to our charming salon in Wherwell.

As a premier L’Oreal salon we have built up an exceptional reputation for our professionalism and technical ability, Particularly in all forms of colouring and for our total commitment to customer care and satisfaction.

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Tuesday - Thursdays 9 a.m - 5 p.m. Fridays 9 a.m - 6 p.m. Saturdays 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.