Soberton & Newtown PARISH MAGAZINE For all the community, delivered FREE to over 700 households

August - September 2020

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Photo by Jonty Sherwill See 'Protecting what we have' on page 14

www.sobertonchurch.org.ukwww.newtownchurch.org.uk St. Peter's, and Holy Trinity. Newtown.

CHURCH SERVICES *** SUSPENDED *** - please refer to page 5

For any enquiries, please contact either

Vicar of Soberton. Newtown and Hambledon The Reverend David Morgan. The Vicarage, Church , Hambledon. 023 9263 2921. Email: [email protected]

Licensed Lav Minister (Reader) Norman Chapman, Meadow Cottage, West Street, Soberton 01489 877378 e-mail: [email protected]

Our Ladv Queen of the Apostles. Roman Catholic Church St. Martin's Street, Bishop's Waitham, S032 1DN Canon Alan Griffiths ([email protected] O2380 273882

6.00 pm. Saturday (First Mass of Sunday) 9.30 am. Sunday There are Sunday evening services in and in . For further information contact Anthony McEwen 01489 877448

The Methodist Circuit. Services in the area are as foiiows:- Shirrell Heath 10.30 am & 6.00 pm Waitham Chase 10.30 am Bishops Waitham 10.30 am 10.30 am & 6.00 pm Hambledon 11.00 am & 6.00 pm

MAGAZINE PRODUCTION & COMMITTEE

Chairman: Perry Abbott 02392 632338

Editor: Gill Gray 07711 058760 [email protected]

Advertisina: Anthony McEwen 01489 877448 [email protected]

Smaii Ads: Jenny Clarke 01489 877836 [email protected]

Circuiation: Pete Woodacre 01489 877768

Treasurer: John Rowlinson 01489 877830

Secreterv: Annie Jacob 01329 832480

Tvoesettina of advertisements and orintina: Solent Design Studio

Front cover desian: Jonty Sherwill - www.sherwiildesian.com - 01329 835555 Contents

Page 4 From the Vicar - We will all need some love 5 "In thy house, great God, we offer of thine own to thee..." From the Registers and Sharp family thanks 6 Soberton and Newton under the Hammer 7 Village Updates 8 VJ Day Soberton & District Nursing Association Trust A Beetle Drive 9 Children's Week 2020 10-11 Soberton and Newtown Young Voices 12-13 Fishing in the - with hand grenades 14 Protecting what we have Newtown Infants School 15-30 Adverts - please support our local businesses 31 Local History ... some observations on Soberton in 1820 32-33 Our River - The Meon (invasive species) 33 Soberton & Newtown Local History Society 34-35 School records and COVID-19 ( Junior School) 36 RBL Droxford & District Branch ... 75 years ago 37 Black Tot Day, 50 years on.... Meon Valley Garden Club 38 SPC Flood and Watercourse Management 39 Winchester Council update 40-41 County Council update 42 Home-Start Hampshire- volunteer required MVCBA remains suspended A thank you from Phil Burton 43 Useful information 44 From the Archives ...

Please e-mail copy for the magazine to [email protected] NEXT COPY DATE - U""SEPTEMBER 2020

The Soberton and Newton Parish Magazine Committee would like to say a massive thank you to the team of volunteers who deliver the Parish Magazine to our homes. You always do a fantastic job, but your support and commitment throughout the lockdown has been absolutely amazing. THANK YOU! We will all need some love

I am very glad that when I wrote my first of these columns a year ago, our esteemed editor did not ask me to predict what would happen in my first year as Vicar of Soberton, Newtown and Hambledon - because never, not even in my most bizarre dreams, could I have predicted the past five months!

No Vicar should ever want to cancel all church services or close the church buildings entirely. I did not want to do it, and certainly I did not enjoy doing it. But I do believe that it was the right thing to do, and not just because the church authorities and then the government told us that we had to. The greatest commandments, said Jesus, were to "love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all always welcome! But nobody's livelihood - not your soul, and with all your mind" and to "love even mine (at least for now)- depended on our your neighbour as yourself (Matthew 22.37- church buildings being open. We were always 39). To have continued having services, to have going to be able to open the doors again for left the buildings open, would have been to prayer and worship. So, if we aren't sure, we have put each other at unnecessary risk. That can afford to be cautious. There will be would not be loving our neighbour. Nor would it businesses, arts organisations, charities, who be loving God - Jesus also taught us that the will not be so fortunate. There will be a lot of care we show for the most vulnerable in society people who are worried about their business or is an expression of our love for him (see their job, or already know they no longer have Matthew 25.31-46). one. Perhaps that's you, or someone you know.

Now we are all beginning to re-start so many There will be less obvious things as well, but things which needed to be temporarily put on things that are just as important. The postponed hold. That might be an activity, club, or event. It weddings. The funerals you couldn't go to. might be a holiday or visits to family. It might Missing your school friends or your work just be a trip to the pub or cafe. Some of us are colleagues, the people you would normally frustrated that things are re-starting too slowly meet at the village hall or the pub. Zoom and for our liking. Others of us feel that it is too WhatsApp and the like are better than nothing, much, too fast, too soon. but they really aren't the same. All of these things we have missed out on have their own Opening the church buildings and holding cost - not one that can be measured or counted church services are a part of that. We are now like money, but ones that are very real. permitted to do those things once again. For some of you that will seem like far too great a If I am glad that I didn't try to predict what would risk, while others of you will have wanted us to happen in the past year, then I certainly won't do much more, much sooner. I understand both be trying to predict what will happen in the next of those points of view - and at various year. It could be a tricky one for lots of us, for moments I have agreed with both of them. We lots of different reasons. There won't be any are trying to strike the best balance which we 'quick fixes'. But I do know this: we are all going can manage. We will continue to do what we to need some love, and we are all going to can within the guidance we are given (and need to show some love. That's certainly what within our own practical limits), while trying to God wants of us. And if my first year as Vicar keep us all as safe as reasonably possible. has taught me anything, it's that together we here in Soberton and Newtown have more than In some very important ways, though, we in our enough love for all of us who need it. three churches are lucky. There's no denying that churches are expensive things to run and Fr David maintain. We've certainly noticed the effects of a drop in income, and financial donations are "In thy house, great God, we offer of thine own to thee..."

As we go to press, we are at the very earliest If you want to be sure of staying up to date with the stages of being permitted to have church services, latest information, then please do join our mailing and to open the church buildings at Hambledon list by emailing [email protected] . and Soberton for individual private prayer, for the first time since mid-March. We are getting to grips You will also find out all the latest news on our with lots of new rules and guidelines we are Facebook pages (search Facebook for 'St Peter expected to follow - and they are changing rather Soberton' and 'Holy Trinity Newtown'), where you frequently, sometimes quite dramatically, and often will also discover lots of other content to help you leaving us very little time to adjust. think or pray - and hopefully to make you smile as well! And there's even more on our benefice What all this means is that we simply cannot YouTube channel (search YouTube for 'The predict at the moment when our services might be Benefice of Soberton, Newtown & Hambledon'). in August and September. We can't even tell you Please 'Like' and 'Subscribe', and don't forget to what they might be like; when we started, we had share us with your friends. to maintain two metre social distancing (which meant we could only have a few people in the We know that some of you can't, or don't want to, building), and we weren't allowed to sing. That come to the church building, but have enjoyed might all have changed already, it might be sharing in prayer and worship online through the changing soon, or it could still be the case for some lockdown. We will be finding ways to make sure time yet. We just don't know. that you can continue sharing, including by aiming to have a service which is available online (either We will have what services we can, when and how live streamed or pre-recorded) every Sunday. we can. We really are sorry that we can't say any more than that at the moment. We know it might be As always, if you have any questions, if you want to frustrating and confusing for you. It is for us as well. share an idea about something we could be doing, or if you just want to check when the next service is We will do our best to keep the church notice - please do get in touch, and we will do our best to boards updated - not just with what times the help. services are, but with other important information you might need to know.

the Jlegidte^

A committal was held for Grace Rosemary Reeves in Newtown churchyard on 10th June.

Geoffrey Sharp 13th August 1946 - 15th March 2020

We are most thankful and appreciative of the support we have received from our friends and neighbours in our villages following Geoffrey's death on the 15th March. The cards and letters have been a great comfort to Carol in her loss. Carol is also very grateful for the practical help offered to her at this sad and difficult time.

The letters convey that Geoffrey will be remembered for his cheerfulness and smiling presence at many village events during the 45 years he lived in Newtown. He was a wise and talented man who shared his knowledge of life to help others in whatever way he could. He enjoyed being the Driver of Thomas the Engine at Newtown fete. Chairmanship of Rookesbury Village Hall and Treasurer of the History Society.

With love, Carol, Sally and Stuart. Soberton and Newtown Under the Hammer

For two weeks in May and June Soberton She recruited Gi Halwagi and Sam Dunlop and Newtown residents enjoyed an exciting to help organize the prizes for both the and welcome diversion from the Covid-19 auction and for a raffle which was run by the lockdown. It was the Silent Auction offering shop at the Bold Forester, which has a range of treats and experiences from provided an invaluable community hub exotic holidays to slap-up meals and bee- throughout the lockdown and an essential keeping lessons to local bidders - all source of basic provisions for locals unable donated by local businesses and residents. to cope with supermarket shopping The story began with a modest idea from Local businesses backed the idea straight Anna Easton who lives in Ingoldfield Lane. away, with Merington's Garage and Wayne She simply wanted to lift the community Smith sponsoring the publicity posters, spirit during the lockdown, help local small which were delivered around the area by businesses by providing a showcase for dozens of willing volunteers. their products and services and raise much- _ , . , needed cash for the NHS. t^® '^®® snowballed and by the time the Silent Auction launched on May '''iM 22nd there were 130 lots to bid for, raising iill iiliilllB the amazing total of £10,529.45 for the NHS Charities Together Fund. m — \ IIIII!Hill CEO of the fund, Ellie Orton, wrote to Anna M f {M|g|«^ , -r praising the depth of generosity of our local I ii community for donating their own property, ■ " -Li time and services to raise this "incredible ' Cr""; ■■sajir' 'ijB sum." She said the money would help kit out mHiJI il£-m||| "Wobble Rooms" where hospital staff can go 'JHHI relaxation during busy shifts and ''^HuJBiilUlllil would also help pay for activities for young "'■tr XT®'* - . "5 mn patients in mental health wards. ,, Jis As part of the auction half the proceeds of ^^® Grenada - £450 - was '■ t ■■ ■■, donated to the JJ Robinson Trust, an A lil "iii" educational charity run in Grenada by a former Soberton resident, Jean Robinson jj|||pj||[|||i|j|^ offered the two week package. See more at www.jjrtrust.com The thrill of bidding ...... for the amazing lots in the Silent Auction certainly kept villagers on tenterhooks. Here's a selection of comments from the successful bidders...

"I have always been partial to a silent auction, but when I saw the fabuious iots for our iocal community I had to bid. Joining forces with our new neighbours we bid for the Chariotte Tilbury/dining experience. How awesome to be the highest bidders." Toni Phillips-Munday

"I am just pleased to have been one part of something so big! And secretly bidding more than other people came with a thrill tool" Hazei Dupont.

"We were keen to support such a worthy cause, and there was such an excellent range of lots to bid for. We were iucky enough to win the family picnic and hamper, which we enjoyed a few weeks ago. We look forward to petting ducks and having curtains made once the current restrictions lift further. Well done for delivering such an excellent auction," Paul Heather

"I took part in the auction because it was local, it was fun, it was a worthy cause and it broke up the monotony of lockdown! I bid on lots of things to start with ~ often heavily outbid ~ but won the logs and have had great fun burning them on the firepit, surrounded with candles and a glass of wine! Well done - a fantastic achievement and lots of fun!" Gill Gray Village Updates

Newtown Church Fete 2020 CANCELLED co-ordinators. Sue Musselwhite on 01489 877282 or Phil Bergin on 02392 632551. Date for 2021 Fete next year! In the last Parish Magazine, we put a 'Hold the Date' for September 5"^ in the hope that we'd be able to host Exciting News... the postponed Newtown Church Fete on that day. By the time you read this article, the new kitchen Sadly, we have decided that based on current should be installed in the Guide Hut - Yippee!!! I guidelines, it just won't be possible to go ahead. So really can't believe it, but it finally happened. please could you put another 'Hold the Date' in your diary for Saturday May 29th 2021 - let us all hope We plan to use our spare time during August that our lives will be more back to normal and we'll be redecorating the Hut and generally tidying up ready for able to meet and share the wonderful traditions of our the new term and, depending on the final cost of the villages once again. kitchen, we may have a little left to update the toilet area for a fully refurbished hut. Stay safe and well - look after each other and let us all count our blessings that we live in such a wonderful Thank you so much to everyone who helped make this community with so much hope for the future. possible. As soon as we are able, we will be hosting a tea party, so you all can see the new and shiny Guide Good Neighbours Group back In action Hut. Now that hospitals are opening their clinics as the Brownies & Guides still not allowed to hold unit lockdown eases the Newtown and Soberton's Good meeting, so we are continuing with our fortnightly Neighbours Group is starting to operate its regular virtual meeting during the summer. These have been medical appointment transport service again. great fun as we have attempted different things from our homes while watching each other on our We would also like to welcome new drivers to the computers. We have had scavenger hunts, quizzes, team. So if you have free time during the day and cooking, made scrunchies and even had a Visitor who would like to help, please talk to one of the co visited with their unusual pets. ordinators (see phone numbers below). It's not the same as seeing the girls face to face, but it We will be following guidelines on personal protection is still good fun and some of the more adventurous provided by the Good Neighbours Network and will be girls has completed some interest badges, worked on happy to provide a lift for anyone who cannot their Skills Builders badges and nearly completed the 3 othenvise get to GP surgeries, hospital clinics, Counties Golden Challenge. dentists, opticians and other medical or therapeutic appointments as well as to lunch clubs. We wish you all the very best and hope you stay safe over the summer and look forward to greeting you all Users of the service are expected to make a donation again soon. towards fuel and wear and tear on the driver's vehicle and also need to pay any parking charges, although With very best wishes, the Good Neighbours scheme has negotiated free Caroline Rogers - Unit Leader for Soberton & parking concessions at many of the local hospitals. Newtown Brownie & Guide Units Using the government mileage allowance as a base we have suggested donations as follows: Soberton and Newtown Ladies' Group Swanmore/Droxford £3.50 Now is our traditional summer break, but we are Wickham/Bishops Waltham/ £4.50 thinking of the new year for the group, starting in Q.A. Hospital and Fareham £7.00 September. As yet, we do not know what we will be Fareham Community Hospital, £10.00 allowed to do, but we are trying to make some plans. Sarisbury Green So we thought we would try and have a meeting in Spire, £12.00 September and, if we cannot have a face to face meeting, we will have a meeting via Zoom, which is the St Mary's Hospital, , £13.50 Winchester Hospital way most meetings seem to happen these days!. Hospital, Southampton £18.00 Spire We will keep you updated, via email, about we are planning to do. If you are not on our mailing list and Romsey Hospital £19.00 would like to be, please contact either Liz or me. Hospital £32.50 In the meantime, enjoy the summer. Wherever practical, drivers will wait and bring you home, but for longer appointments we may need to • Helen Stranks 01489 878270 [email protected] book a second driver to collect you, which will mean paying a second charge.lf you find yourself needing • Liz Whales 01489 877712 [email protected] transport to a medical appointment ring one of our VJ Day Commemorations - 15 August 2020

VJ Day marks the end of hostilities in World War 2. At last families around the globe could start to plan for and enjoy the benefits of international peace.

Under current COVID 19 Guidance the following are planned:

Saturday 15'" August

Short services of commemoration at War Memorials conducted by respective Rector ( Parishes) and Vicar(Soberton & Newtown)as follows:

1100 Droxford

1120 Exton

1145

1210 Newtown

1230 Soberton

Sunday 16"* August A service of thanksgiving and commemoration:

1500 The Church Green, St Andrew's Church, Meonstoke Conducted by Rector of the Bridge Parishes assisted by Hon Chaplain to the Royal British Legion.

SOBERTON & DISTRICT NURSING

ASSOCIATION TRUST YOU AM INVITED TO A Following on from the Local History page in the June/July magazine about "Health in Bye-Gone Soberton", I thought I would update you on the "Soberton & District Nursing Association Trust".

This was founded back in the 1930's. Ladies in Soberton, Newtown, Meonstoke, Droxford, and Exton put 6d a week into a fund. This entitled them to call upon the services of the District Nurse when nursing was needed or childbirth. When the NHS was introduced in July At Rookesbury Hall '7r» 1948, the fund was wrapped up and the remaining money put into trust. The income from On Friday 13*'' November from 5.30-7.30pm the Trust we use at Christmas to buy tins of Tickets £5 per person to include a hotdog, cake biscuits to give to those in the Parishes who have and soft drink. Raffle, bar, and more! had a difficult time during the year. No expiotiience necessary njies wHI be exptaified. Ymi play in pairs I have been involved since 1991 when I took and round the tabies after each beetle. over from my mother, Angela Bazalgette. Many rickets availabte from; The 810040 or of you will have received tins of biscuits over the email [email protected] years. We are always looking for more volunteers to help us. If you would like to get FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY! involved do please contact me. Raising funds for

Louise McEwen 01489 877448 pi||lBBBr» 1 ||i 1 ■ t W L' M (Chairman of the Soberton & District Nursing Association Trust). CUILDR[N'S WEEK 2020; / \ A I / UP. upanpauav...

In a year where nothing has been ordinary, Children's Week has been enjoying our summer as best we can! Some of us have been embracing our artistic side with a 'Children's Week Challenge' to make, model, write, or paint something imaginative around this year's theme - Up, Up and Away. If you still want to get involved the details are in last month's Parish Mag (if you've still got it!) or you can email us - the deadline for submissions is September, so there is still time to get creative! Many of the children have also been exploring the villages with a specially designed trail, taking part in activities based on past themes from Children's Week, whilst enjoying the great outdoors.

For the last part of our trail (even if you've not joined in before) we've got a box of 'treasure' for you to enjoy. To access this box, you will need to work out the (numerical) 4-digit code below:

digit - The decade the line shut to passengers (XX?X) 2"^ digit - The 2^^ digit of the century the Curl Chapel at St. Peter's was built + (plus)l\\Q 4*^ digit of the year Holy Trinity was built (X? Century) + (XXX?) 3^^ digit - The last digit of the White Lion Pub's phone number + (plus)~\hQ 3^^ numerical digit of the Bold Forester Pub's post code + (XXXX ?XX) 4^'^ digit - The number of balloons in the June/July Parish Mag -(minus) JhQ number of Plagues of Egypt in the Bible (??)- (??)

The treasure box will be outside the Rogers' house - Horns Hill House, Webbs Green, Soberton - between and 16*^ August, ready for you to collect your prize!

All questions, queries, and answers can be sent to [email protected]. We hope that you have all been enjoying your summer, whatever you have been getting up to, and we look forward to hearing from you soon! Summer Colouring page

10 Soberton and Newtown Young Voices

Jokes Recipe: Banana pancakes What do you call a dinosaur Something to try with an aduit helper that is sleeping? during the holiday! A dino-snore! 1. Mash together 1 banana, 1 egg and What do you call a ghost's 50g of self-raising flour. true love? 2. Meanwhile, melt a small knob of butter His ghoul-friend. in a frying pan on a medium heat. 3. Spoon three puddles (each about 2 What did the banana say to tbsps) into a pan at a time. Cook for 1- the dog? 2 minutes until the top starts to bubble, Nothina. Bananas can't talk. then flip and cook for another 30 seconds. 4. Repeat steps 2-3 with any remaining mixture. 5. Get creative with toppings! You could try chocolate chips, fresh berries, peanut butter, maple syrup or even yoghurt and honey.

Rocs Report We have shared two popular videos via the Soberton, ^ Did you know... ^ Newtown and Hambledon Benefice YouTube channel. This ^ Hampshire is famous for its ^ has included songs, a story and, ^ , having been growing the ^ of course, some craft activities! ^ crop since the 19th century. The ^ The videos remain online for you county is responsible for the majority to watch. Rocs meets during the family service at St Peter's Soberton on the first Sunday of every month. New faces are very welcome! We can't wait to meet you in person when it is safe for us to have you. Got a joke or comment to share? Email them to: [email protected].

n Fishing in the River Meon - with hand grenades By Richard Bell-Davies

Twelve year old Ron and his 2 mates were landed next to the Horse and Jockey pub at running towards the River Meon when the Hipley. Canadian soldiers shouted at them to get down. able h ratcly, by no means the least desirable attrilnile M the despera^ The soldiers then tossed a hand grenade into dccb da h t ttsmmer. the river in order to stun and catch fish. This is just one of the memories that Ron French, now a spritely 90 year old, has of his earlier years while living in this area. The year was 1942 and the Canadian troops were encamped in the woods on the South side of Budden's Lane. This location is about 100 yards South East of broken metal of th4»e who dai^ to 43's fim claim tW Battle

In the build up to D day the same woods were occupied by British troops who Ron and his mates would visit and learn how to load rifle magazines. While having a hair-cut one day in Swanmore there was a sudden roar of engines as 3 German bombers flew close by at very low level. The bombers turned for and bombed a factory which was making car-bodies for Ford motor works, which they had believed were Spitfire parts. About 4 days before D day German propaganda leaflet dropped over the Ron recalls a staff car with outriders passing by Droxford down,showing surrendered Canadian at speed heading north and perhaps destined TROOPS and their WHOSE TRACKS WERE DISABLED BY THE SHINGLE ON THE DIEPPE BEACHES AS WELL AS BY for the important Churchill meetings held in the

GUNFIRE FROM THE SURROUNDING HIGH CLIFFS. Droxford railway prior to the .

Other memories from that time are of the As a young lad, with an early bedtime, Ron's barrage balloons around the approaches to recollections of the VE day celebrations are of a Portsmouth and how they made a deep red large woodpile in Wickham square which was glow in the night sky when shot at by the later set alight. After the war placards went up German bombers. The aircraft would bomb in his school warning people not to pick up war Portsmouth and then overfly Soberton before related material because of its explosive turning back for France; so there were dog hazards. fights to watch. One bomber, a Fleinkel 111, was brought down by a Hurricane and crashed Ron joined the National goods trains. Later this reduced to just one Service and then the goods train a day which carried sugar beet. British Transport Police After the line was shut in 1968 it was used for a in which he served for while to store disused railway wagons and 35 years. trucks awaiting disposal. The sight of a long Sergeant Ron (on the left). line of dilapidated trucks in the Meon Valley raised complaints by those living in the more well-to-do houses. The trucks were held in place on the tracks using wooden chocks. One frosty night the lead wagon, a particularly scruffy wooden box truck, decided to free itself and set off down the shallow sloping In the mid 1950's he married Gill. towards Fareham. It passed Ron's house in the dark just as Ron was setting off for work making no noise and drifting slowly by; as if it were part of a ghost train. Ron reported the incident to his work and the truck was found the next morning at Knowle. The truck had tried but not made it to the main line at Fareham and had got stuck in the valley underneath the later built M27.

When Ron and Gill moved into Railway (now called Bridge) Cottage in the 1950's there was no electricity. For lighting they used paraffin Gill on a camping holiday with Ron in their early lamps downstairs and candles upstairs. Goal MARRIED DAYS. THE CAMPING GEAR WOULD GO IN THE was used for heating and hot water, while sidecar. Photo taken in the West Country. bottled gas was used for cooking. Mains water had arrived but in the garden there remained a They first rented and then bought a former borehole, wind turbine pump and a large water railway staff's cottage at the bottom of Budden's tank. Food and necessities were all delivered, lane in which they both happily live today. Their with the baker on a Saturday and a butcher on a house is right next to the railway line and Wednesday. opposite was Goods Yard which had

Ron has lived in this area for all of his life. He has been kindly delivering the Soberton and Newtown Parish Magazine to the residents of the Wood End and Mislingford area, near his home, for the past 20 plus years and continues to do so. Many thanks and best wishes to Ron and Gill.

a wooden platform. train stopped at Mislingford platform with Ron and Gill's semi-detached house (right) in the background

At that time the countryside adjacent to the railway line had no trees.

A couple of Ron's memories of the railway line are worth recording. In the early 1950's there Ron and Gill today in the garden of the same house were 4 passenger trains a day plus periodic AS shown in the photo on the left. Protecting what we have

Living in the beautiful countryside of the Meon Garden and roadside hedgerows are precious Valley is a privilege shared by residents but perhaps habitat for nesting and roosting birds, small taken for granted by some, as what might seem like mammals and butterfly populations, and one only timeless beauty is now under a growing threat from has to hear the volume of bird chatter to realise their development, climate change, and loss of habitat for value. The RSPB recommends no trimming our precious wildlife. between March and August, and think twice before removing a roadside hedge as there are regulations Listeners to BBC Radio 4's Farming Today on what you can do. Keeping boisterous dogs on programme (July 10th) will have heard the grim the lead in the woods during the breeding season statistic that over 2 million acres of grassland has will help prevent disturbance and death as will been lost in Britain over the last 25 years, equivalent keeping cats and dogs in the house when fledgling to the area of Suffolk and Sussex. Most has been birds are on the lawn. Driving more slowly will help replaced by concrete or tarmac with a smaller reduce animal road kill and at the same time proportion for planting of new forestry. Of particular enhance the village environment for everyone. concern is the loss of grassland in low-lying areas where water retention is a vital part of preventing There is much on the internet with hints and advice flooding in the winter months. and a website that caught my eye recently is the so- named People's Trust for Endangered Species that One only has to look around to see agricultural land tells us that in the UK almost two-thirds of species being lost to commercial use, sometimes without have declined in the last 50 years. It highlights the planning consent or relying on 'retrospective' decline in the hedgehog population and while there permission, an increasingly attractive route as a fast may not be much we can do to help the 250,000 track solution to avoid the input from neighbouring killed on UK roads every year we can at least help residents who would otherwise have the right to those in our gardens with suitable places to object or suggest improvements to a scheme. Better hibernate and also check under bonfires before legislation and enforcement from a more agile lighting to avoid casualties. planning authority is needed urgently to curb this trend or pressure will grow for rural planning to be The most obvious sign that all is not well is the overseen where the local knowledge and increasing amount of fly tipping, not helped by new commitment resides. restrictions at recycling centres and charging for disposal of particular types of waste. The Even if what's happening a mile down the road from environmental impact is considerable but so are the your house might not be of concern to you, pena^'Jas, and once again we can help by ensuring uncontrolled development has an impact on nature that contractors dispose of debris legally and not and even though correctly processed consent is just dump it so it becomes somebody else's likely to include mitigation of habitat loss, in reality problem. this is often a token gesture. We are fortunate to have active local groups that aim to preserve the Life in a rural village has always relied on the mutual flora and fauna in much-cherished locations and to support of friends and neighbours, but nowadays protect us from the effects of climate change. even more care and commitment is needed to Soberton Down, St. Glair's Meadow, the support those that we often take for granted, the Sobernewts and the Flood Action Group are prime wild creatures around us that have enriched our examples, but each of us can do our bit. lives during the lockdown but will only continue to be out there if we help them in these increasingly challenging times.

Jonty Sherwill

Newtown Infants School

The Parish Council would like to thank all those who contributed towards the cost of the new flashing speed signs. The signs are to be placed either side of Newtown Infants School in Church Road.

In particular, we would like to thank Patricia Stallard, our County Councillor for donating through the County Councillors Grant Scheme, the Charity - Allotment for the Labouring Poor, The Parish Magazine, Holy Trinity Church and PiNS. Without their very generous donations this safety measure would not have been able to be put in place.

We are hopeful that the signs will be put up before school commences in September.

14 • Service and repairs on site • Collection & delivery • Competitive rates SERVICE AND REPAIRS • Rotary blades & hedge cutter sharpening on site Specialist in all types of mowers • Over 10 years experience and garden machinery

Call James on 077 83 93 72 12 or 01489 878085 •[email protected] Mrs G's Pilates Pat Staples interiors INTERIOR DESIGN, FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS Claylands Road, Bishop's Waltham S Enhanced core strength Tel No: 01489 892626 Improved flexibility :ss iiR 1 rgiffiHrttg aiPi tmrnw Greater postural control Trading locaUy since 1993 I.-.—.1 -Interior Design Rooksbury Hall Tuesday \ J lij-'' ^ -Measuring & Fitting Service 9:15-10:15, or :%ii -Curtains & Blinds 1:1 & smaller groups. _ . _ — — *" -Carpets & Floorcovering ^ ^ -Upholstery & Re-upholstery -Wallpaper & Paint Contact Charlotte Graetz: 07776221077 01329 835717 or charlotteqraetzOvahoo.com wvvw.patstapiesinteriors.co.uk

Mushroom Catering hambledcJN Bringing Masterchef CARS to the Meon Valley Masterchef contestant Gill Holland PRIVATE TAXI SERVICE provides bespoke menus that give your special occasion the wow factor! Superior Air Conditioned Cars Traditional British fare, a Thai feast or 8 Seoter Minibus Airports, Stations & Cruise Transfers a Mediterranean mezze, canapes at a Theatre, Shopping, Business drinks party to full wedding packages. & Local Travel Whatever your event give Gill a call on the contact details below: Steve & Tracey Eames M:07766 027 301 www.mushroom-club.co.uk W:02392 632 375 West Down Cottage, Chalk Hill, [email protected] www.hambledoncars.co.uk Soberton, S032 3PH 07879 696495,01489 876741 West Street Hambledon Hampshire II or\ Forestry & Arboriculture Ltd • Crown Reduction/Re-shaping • Thinning/Dead Wooding • Skilled Tree Removal • Hedges Plantation Maintenance • Tree Planting • Fencing • Woodland Management• Stump Grinding Professional Qualifications •Insured in all apsects of forestr\ and tree surgery For a personal and caring service contact Joe Gordon IP 24 HOUR EMERGENCY CALL-OUT •FREE QUOTATIONS Hambledon 023 9263 2418 Mobile 07712 808 081 www.treedocjoe.co.uk

CloaiiiGT

laylcrs Garage Chimneys I I Droxford REGISTERED CHIMNEY SWEEPS Hampshire S032 SQL Certificates Issued, HETAS approved Tel: 01489 877433 Buy with Confidence Approved Trader Stoves, ranges, open fires swept Traditional and Power Sweeping CAR and MOTORCYCLE CCTV surveys and tar reduction services

MOTS Paul and Elly Clements 01489 578541 or 07540 841022 Service and repair to cars www.cleanerchimneys.co.uk light commercials and horse trailers Air conditioning - service & repair ^CORE STRENGTH FLEXIBILITY Competitive prices on FLAT STOMACH JOINT MOBILITY tyres batteries and exhausts REDUCED STRESS TONING Collection & delivery or loan car available .IMPROVED POSTURE ^ subject to availability

CARRIE MANDLEY RGN PILATES INSTRUCTOR BUY WITH CONFIDENCE PILATES PHONE 07854 413352 Trading Standards Approved Trader

Ij^oZ^o j^(§(^DuD§1[ji] PLUMBING,HEATING & SOLAR ENGINEERS

MIKlII* I *114:1 X*1*1

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WOODPECKERS,ALLINGTON LANE, WEST END,SOUTHAMPTON, HAMPSHIRE S030 3HP S^nd/vems/ ^^uixxs

Where Good Cars Cost Less

We specialise in Low Mileage, Service History Cars at Reasonable Prices

Find-a-car service in n R Free advice on selling your current car,

Nice cars bought for cash Our beers are available in For an up to date stock list, please visit bottles, www.andrews-autosource. CO. uk bags-in-boxes or casks, all direct Or call at: from the brewery The Forge Garage Droxford 01489 878 110 Telephone 01489 878 879 [email protected] www.bowman-ales.com

HURRICANE FARM WELLER PATRIC K Breeders of rare breed poultry Hatching Eggs, Chicks, POL Hens Breeders ot Pigs Glos old spots Tomworths and Kune Kune SOBERTON 01489 878218

AND MEON VAELEY LOCAL FARRIER PROPERTY (Soberton Based) EXPERTS David Povey Dip wcf Experienced local team with detailed knowledge ofthe area. Hot & Cold Shoeing Remedial Shoeing ■■■ ' ; 01489 893555 % i www.wellernatriek.eom Established 1985 ■ nII^ ^ info(®wellerDatriek.eo.nk 01489 878218 ]THE MOWER CUNI^ Repair and Service Facilityfor all types of: WALK-MOWERS• CHAIN-SAWS • STRIMMERS 1 HEDGE-TRIMMERS • SHREDDERS • BLO-VACS etc. New Service - at your home (minimum of3 items) Experienced Local Window Cleaners Sharpening of all garden hand tools ineluding Contact: David Maycock [email protected] SECATEURS • SHEARS • LOPPERS etc. www.dmwindowcleaning.com Tel: 01489 891025 - 07815 698140 Telephone: WICKHAM(01329) 833502

G. RIXON LTD.

ELECTRICAL PLUMBING AND HEATING ENGINEERS

TM

□1329 8346GG you're tfiinlring of movmg just need to know what's hs^jpeaiag to the value ofyour hmne call us a market appraisal, al^lutely &ee and withoirt Miy obUgs^km whatsoe^^er. www. g-rixon-ltd. co. uk

enquiries@g-rixon-ltd. cg. uk BYRNE RUNCIMAN

ESTATE & LETTING AGENTS WE ALSO INSTALL, REPAIR AND SERVICE Ben Runciman ■ Rotia Thurston OIL, LP& AND NATURAL GAS BOILERS

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To advertise please contact: PlanningPlan work Bricklaying. Digger Hire. Civil Engineering. Drainage. Anthony McEwen UPVC Windows & Doors. Fencing. Plastic Fascia & Soffit. Plastering. [email protected] Concrete. Driveways. Loft Conversion. Plumbing. 01489 877448 Roofing Pitch & Flat. Garages. Painting. Carpentry. Conservatories. Electrics. For Free Estimates please phone Rob 01489-891801 M «& S LOCKE & SON LTD PLASTERING & CERAMIC TILING CONTRACTORS D| Specialising in: ■ ibiP I • All aspects of plastering • All aspects of wall & floor tiling rACHIIVIERY • Interior stone flooring SALES & REPAIRS • Exterior stone patios • Full bathroom refurbishments Family run business with over 30 years experience, we offer a reliable, friendly quality service. Wheely Dovm Garages , Nr. Southampton ww*r,idj-scott.com For a free quotation/advice please call Dean on Hampshire S032 3L6 Mobile: 07712 894119/Home: 01489 877199 Telephone/Fax: 01730 829207 ■ \ ■

lieyrtHiie Call 01730 233264 NORTON iarnI

TIMBER AND:OAK FRAMED HOUSES AND BUILDINGS OF blSTINCTIDN

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CONTACT OUR SALES TEAM TO DISCUSS YOUR PRGOlBi

PAINTERS & DECORATORS Mmi- 1992 01489 8990^3

iiifofaihhrtQnbarn s.co .uk

Domestic & Commercial \ N7HBC www.liortonl3arns.co.iik

External & Internal Decorating

We Pride Ourselves on Quality Tel:02392 002872 02392 787967 Mob:07950 145494 Or Competent, Clean & Reliable

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FULLY INSURED & REGISTERED WITH THE INSTITUTE OF info(S)oliverspalnting.co.uk CHIMNEY SWEEPS. SEE US ON CHECKATRADE.COM THE TRAVELLERS REST FOOD An 18th Century Character Country Pub in OPEMIWe SERVED; the Rural Village of Newtown. TIMFS: "Great place, great people, great food!" HON-fKI 01329 830097 MOM -FRI 6PM-9PM 4PM TIL LATE SrAT £r SUM 12PM-8PM REAL ALES • HOME COOKED FOOD • BEER GARDEN SAT £r SUN CAMPSITE • PLAY AREA • INDOOR WELL • LIVE MUSIC 12PM TIL THE TRAVELLERS REST • CHURCH ROAD, NEWTOWN LATE FAREHAM, HAMPSHIRE P017 6LL KS Groundworks

Local General Builders & Ground Maintenance, Hardscaping, Drives, Slabs, etc. Over 30 years experience. Tel: 07801141517

Ben Tibbetts Electrical Ltd

Contact Details City^p -01489 278792 Your local electrician -07828 403185 No job too small APPROVED Guilds - [email protected] All work fully certified CONTRRaOR

LOCAL BARRISTERS AVAILABLE DIRECT TO THE PUBLIC

Disputes, Contract and HD Business Advice HACKETT & DABBS Wills and Powers of Attor■ney [email protected] Litigation Telephone: 023 93 878797

First 20 minute consultation free Part P Full Scope Electrician JT Derek Pilcher JIB Approved CARPENTRY&BUILDING Domestic • Commercial • Industrial All aspects of Carpentry & Building work undertaken Agricultural • Rewires • Extra Sockets • Lights Showers • Cookers • Fuseboards Security Lights etc Testing and Certification Emergency Call-Out available Tel; 02392 632037 Mob: 07885 283036 I [email protected] che«ftatrade.a Tel: 02380 602 627 Mob: 07766 418 039 I Fully qualified and insured ™ Email: [email protected] Leading the way in providing an AFFORDABLE PROFESSIONAL service Westminster LAW Wills, Probate & Estate Plannin WICKHAM CAR SERVICINC5 MILL LANE, WICKHAM, FAREHAM POI7 5HY 01329 832552 Local Collection & Delivery Service All Makes & Models serviced Tyres, Brakes, Batteries, Exhausts. If you arc ovor h.t il will only cosi you LT'i' Air Conditioning Service & Repairs to make or upilalo your Will. Engine & Gearbox repairs We are also Lasting Power of Attorney Specialists - only £85* each LPA if instructed DPF & Fuel System Cleaning during the Will appointment. Mobile Servicing & Repairs Our prices include home visits and Inheritance Tax advice. Light Vehicle Recovery Call us now for a no obligation chat on: 02392 706980

Courtesy Vans & Cars www.westminster-law.co.uk Trackers & Dash Cams fitted email: [email protected] Westminster Law Ltd, Grassmere Way,Wateriooville P07 8QD Class 4 & 7 Mots •ALL OUR PRICES INCLUDE VAT.These very special rates are only Welding & General repairs available if you are aged over 65. Our normal low price for a standard single Will is £125, or £195 for a couple.

FOR ALL YOUR DRY CLEANING AND LAUNDRY NEEDS

Duvets Laundered PETER A. BRYANT Laundry Service Curtain Cleaning & Alterations Carpet Cleaning Machine Hire Tailor Repairs & Alterations Waxed Garments Cleaned & Re-Waxed Wedding Dresses Cleaned & Boxed Pillows Cleaned & Recovered Specialist Rug Cleaning Service Suede & Leather Cleaning Professional Dry Cleaning Service

4 Merlin Mews, Bishop's Waltham. Tel: 01489 894421 • Agents: Pages of Wickhom & Meonsfoke Post Office www.peterabryant.co.uk EST1921

VISIT STORE or BUY ONLINE ♦ REPAIRS ♦ SERVICE ♦ PART-EX ♦ HIRE

LARGE GARDEN MACHINERY SHOWROOM Lawnmowers & Ride-Ons Chainsaws & Safety Clothing Hedge & Brush Cutters Rotavators & Shredders Leaf & Litter Blow-vacs Log Splitters & Chippers Snow Sweepers STIHi: Mail Order Spare Parts Used Machines Available

©Husqvama^ lYONDJV ">™.cartersofswanwick.co Call Direct On: uk|w^.bestbuymowers 01489 575242

Duncan Road,Swanwick, Southampton, SO31 iBD.(Opposite Swanwick Railway Station. Follow the signs to the station from Park Gate.) Victoria Road SURGERY HOURS (by appointment) Bishop's Waltham Monday-Friday 9.00am-12noon Hants. S032 1DJ Monday-Friday 4.00pm-7.30pm

Tel: 01489 896734 Saturday 9.00am-12noon 't ^ IWiimj(mm Open for routine enquiries between iir 8.00am and 7.30pm Monday to Friday & 8.00am and 12 noon Saturday 24 hour emergency cover provided by Vets Now www.shieldveterinarycentre.co. uk

• Design

Artwork • Postcards

•Stationery Folders

• Leaflets • Posters

Flyers • Banners C^l CKIX Li Eh 1^1 I • Brochures • Vinyl DES IGN • Booklets • Exhibition • Newsletters Displays

Tel: 01489 892344 • Email: sales(a)solentdeslgnstud!o.com www.solentdeslgnstudio.com

IMDSCAP£& Cyntflia tester Blinds and Curtain Track Experts LBH GROUND WORKSLM Free Estimates - Quality Work - Competitive Prices Vertical • Venetian • Roller • Pleated • Awnings Canopies • Plantation Shutters • Conservatory Blinds Brick Laying. Block Paving • PaUos Silent Siiss • Velux • Keyiite • Luxoflex

Concreting • Drainage • Extensions Custom made blinds & curtains Garages• Decking • Fencing • Turflng Full fitting service • Curtain tracks AtTlSA Poles • Electric • Bay specialist All other aspects of Hard and Soft Landscaping Upholstery • Traditional • Antique • Modern and Maintenance KEVIN HALL 07808 486004 city4^ Domestic A commercial contracts undertaken 7^:01329832188 gme^%UscM.co.uk Guilds Please contact us for advice & no obligation quotation Tel: 01329 833784 Email: [email protected] MJM PLUMBING & HEATING GAMBLIN CARS Wickham based company with over 30 years experience PRIVATE HIRE Installation, servicing and repairs for oil fired boilers. Installation of new oil tanks. Installation, servicing and repairs for all natural gas appliances, domestic and commercial. Installation, servicing and repairs of all IPG FOR ALL YOUR TAXI REQUIREMENTS appliances, domestic and commercial, TEL: 01489 89-33-33 AIRPORT SERVICES TO HEATHROW AND GATWICK mobile homes and boats. LOCAL & LONG DISTANCE Installation and maintenance of heating systems. 4-6 SEATER Central heating systems power flushed. Unvented hot water systems installed, serviced and repaired. . y^OFTEC Reg 14371 Gassafe Reg 529990 Complete bathroom installations, REQISTE" including wall & floor tiling. All general plumbing work, installation and maintenance. All work guaranteed for 12 months. Telephone 01329 507712 / 07773 385946 email: [email protected] Carpet Fayre Ltd www.mJmplumbing.co.uk m i\ m Logs, Logs Wi Hardwood logs delivered for log burners or open fires. HARVEY M A RI A V Abingixjn Si"" Contact: John Newbury WFSTEX 07940 357 839 Checkatrade.com www.lockshcathcarpeLs.co.uk ^30^1 Woodlea Nurseries Seasoned Where repu'ation matters * Sr" Call US on:01489 532530 Hardwood, Home Selection Service Available SYCAMORE TREE SURGEONS All aspects of tree work Pruning Surgery Felling Hedgecutting Tree Stump Removal and Site Clearance Approved contractors for local authorities

FULLY INSURED 023 9223 0146 Mob;07889 704449 David Farrlngton 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE D.G.CLEEVE GENERAL BUILDER

• EXTENSIONS• ALTERATIONS • REPAIR & MAINTENANCE• • DECORATING• PLUMBING •

NO JOB TOO SMALL

FOR ADVICE OR ESTIMATE TELEPHONE(01329) 833677 MOBILE 07919100074

Moore Electrical Services CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING HIGH QUALITY & AFFORDABLE A complete and reliable service including: • Independent Family Run & Owned Business -16 years Installation of new circuits and repairs • Carpets, Leather, Rug & Curtain Cleaning Fuse board upgrades • ApprovedA by Trading Standards/-V. . . WePrice endeavour wiatchany to Fauit finding . Honest & Competitive Pricing genuine quote... inspection and testing . Rapid Drying Times Landlords reports ■MlMiigaBBB • Discounts for Whole Houses 1 - Room - £65.00 Part P registered with the NICEIC " Call us today on: 2 - Rooms - £80.00 Cheekatradexom T:023 8055 5810 (additional rooms discounted) Where reputationtatlon matters 01489 786419 M: 07436 266078 20% OFF our regular price 07971 405014 www.elliottcarpetcare.co.uk on all UPHOLSTERY [email protected]

Chamberlain (iMops Wood IC

Award-winning self-catering holiday cottages Nigel Chamberlain & Partners • Eight cottages with 2, 3 or 4 en-suite bedrooms and excellent accessibility Independent Family • Underfloor heating, wood burners and free WiFi FUNERAL DIRECTORS • Indoor heated pool available from June 2018, serving Swanmore and Newtown since 1892 games room to follow The Gate House, Victoria Road • Contemporary, open plan layout with extending BISHOPS WALTHAM dining table seating 12 (01489)892640 • Individual enclosed gardens with hot tubs and stunning views, safe for both children and pets Bob Metcalf MBE • Ideal for family gatherings, groups, wedding Personal 24 Hour Service

guest accommodation or corporate visitors www.chamberlainfunerals.co.uk

SELECTED Independmt www.wallopswoodcottages.co.uk FUNEIWI. HOMES* T: 01489 878888 Member by Inviuition E: [email protected] Part of Richard Steel & Partners The Family Owned Funeral Directors Wallops Wood, Sheardley Lane, Droxford, Hampshire, S032 SQY Serving Hampshire since I860 LOGS & KINDIING PEST CONTR &( i.i4: Fast effective pest control Rabbits, Moles, Wasps, Rats, Bees, Mice Fleas, Hornets, Moths, Flies, Squirrels, Woodworm, Bedbugs, Foxes, Etc. Bee specialist humane bee removals Telephone: 07956 049462 other services Pest Prevention, Logs, Tree work. Garden Clearance 01329 833350 07453965542 [email protected] rht Sroomingi CHAMBERLAINS Family Solicitors - Home Visits willingly undertaken Professional Dog Grooming Fast, Efficient, Personal SenHce by the Partners Colin Chamberlain and Henry Mundy Cify tf SuHds Qualified with distinction, over 10 years experience We can help you with a wide range of legol services including conveyancing, Services Include: Probate and Wills Clipping • Scissoring * Hand Stripping • Wash & Sroom • Nail Clipping Free Initial Office Interview Based in Soberton Heath RED UON STREET(OFF HIGH STREET), BISHOPS WALTHAM Tel: 01329 835332 / 07909 575417 TEL: 01489 896141 www.k9 -4pawsandthegroomingroom .co.uk [email protected] cal. iiKic|X'iKit.MU and lam Since 1885 funeral homes of Dennic; Harpers Wiekham and C'lanlieh

Soulh I )(>\^ ll^ The A pa & Central Heating Company I Miionil Scr\ icL if Oil & Gas Aga servicing, repairs and installations. Oil & Gas boiler servicing, repairs and installations.

We also provide other services such as... EJiilLji • Oil tank replacement, Landlord safety installation and relocations. 24 hoiii', local and personal scrv icc certificates. • Morislrj scrsicc • Sloiiciiiasonr\ sitm'it • LPG, natural Gas & Oil work. • No deposits required • Chimney installations. Free quotes and Managing and Principle Funeral Director: professional Mr Paul M Lee-Bapty DIP Fl). ' Wood burning stoves. advice.

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"Highly Recommended" Local Chimney Sweep TANK EMPTYING Cesspits SERVICING Septic Tanks m ' All Treatment Plants Power Sweeping,Traditional Brushes, Interceptors Pump Sets Chimney Camera Surveys Grease Traps ' Pumping Stations Treatment plants ' Water Pumps Stoves, Open fires. Range Cookers Pump Stations INSTALLATIONS • Soakaways / Drainage Fields Less waiting time- 2 qualified sweeps • Drain Runs 023 9247 6458 or 07733 343530 • New Plant & Tank Conversions • Percolation Tests or 07847 466281 (Foul, Storm & Rainwater)

[email protected] PUMP SHOP • Air Blowers - All Makes DRAINAGE SERVICES PtmKf of • Submersible pumps • Root Cutting Che€i:atrade.coni • Spares and accessories • CCTV Surveys Wh«e wfxjtation matters • Blocked Drains (Jetting/Rodding)

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ICAEW A Beautiful CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Yoga Studio

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Self-Assessment Returns InkJet Printer Cartridges Detailed Fixed Cost Quotes e^SON'laSS eAmm Visits to your Premises Save Pounds on Compatible ' Original Printer Cartridges Today Excellent Price Free Delivery Email [email protected] Tei: 01489 877818 WWW.inkking, co. uk DROXFORD ANTIQUES @ THE OLD BAKERY High Street, Droxford 01489 878800 Established for over 40 years. Still buying and selling antiques of all descriptions, valuations and probate service. We repair, restore and polish in our own workshops. CURTAIN MAKING & ALTERATIONS Stockists of Kate Forman, Vanessa Arbuthnott, Ada & Ina We offer a full service from measuring to making beautiful hand sewn curtains, blinds and pelmets especially for you. Please telephone Mark or Mary for free, professional and confidential help and advice.

THE lOlNERS SHOP

Period Joinery of Every Description

Conservation Approved Double Glazed Box Sash Windows

^'Architectural Drawings JJ:-..ftflSyBfoti] (Genuine) Handmade Kitchens & Services" F'oc atiot'S Site Pians :)D Mofleiing info@f©8sandpartners.co.uk ng Appiicalions vvww.gossandpartners.co.u k Whs? we offsr. Using CAD so

Associate Member of the Hampshire Buildings Preservation Trust Ltd

Associated Trades

WHITE ROSE PLUMBING F A~R E H ,A M Russell Beaumont

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H E ^ ^ Oa WE'RE ON YOUR DOORSTEP

Having a local office means we're accessible, whether you need to make changes to your policy, make a claim or need financial advice.

We can help you with: • Home Insurance • Car Insurance • Business Insurance • Commercial Vehicle Insurance • Retirement Planning • Protection

NFU Mutual Financial Advisers advise on NFU Mutual products and selected products from specialist providers. We'll explain the services we tKAIIER BEHOH offer and the charges. Financial advice is provided by NFU Mutual Select Investments Ltd.

CABINETRY | KITCHENS | FURNITURE For a real conversation about your insurance Give us a call or pop in NFU Mutual Winchester and Wicklram,3- 5 Albany Business Centre, Wickham Road, Fareham, Hampshire,PO17 5BD T: 02392 632222 M: 07805 040464 01962 881888 [email protected]

fVhy not read our glowing reviewsfrom some of the Meon Valley's mostfabulous residents ?

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Our Agents are appointed representalrves ofThe National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No.111982). Registered in . Register^ Office: Tiddlngton Road,Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Coiiduct Authority and the Prudentiai Regulation Auttrarity A member ofthe Associab'on of British Insurers; >CC tcBSB RJS Fencing Contractors

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Stock Fence Electric Fencing Closeboard The Village Cattery - Soberton Deer Fence Equifence Panel Fencing Post & Rail Post & Rail Trellis Superior fioCiday accommodation Stake & Rail Stake & Rail Picket Fencing i Permanent Permanent Dog Proof Fencing for yourfeCinefriend Electric Fencing : Electric Fencing Post & Rail Viewing welcome by appointment Tel: 01489 877768 1 Glencoe Cottages, Long Road, Soberton, Hants 5032 SPG Call Richard on 07930 229649 www.villagecattery.co.uk

The best printers for miles - now only 1.7 miles from Soberton! STUDIO 6 DESIGN & PRINT Now offering high quality colour print at lower prices Professional graphic design • Posters & building plans printed Scanning service • Documents copied, printed & wire bound drtmd^sert/tce aanmn^eedf www.stuclio-6.co.uk • [email protected] Telephone: 01329 832933

"PBStOFF" PiST 0ONTBOI Wasps, Fleas, Flies, Rats, Mice <& Moles m

Call Matthew Tel: 01329 832159 Mobile; 07962 872063

BPCA Qualified Insured

A qualified & experienced Computer ' Engineer who can efficiently solve your home and business computer needs.

/=or St frfertcffy, no oJbfi^atron cjfUOtG caif: * Ctiris Ou^nlerr 01489 SCOT'S8 or OT962 6^1 >1 http://vk/\A/\A/.c:ps-ltcJ.org.uR [email protected]: MARK & JUNE MASON Ray Chandler Husband and wife high quality painters and STATION GARAGE FAREHAM LTD decorators. Period to modem properties, one room to a whole building. We work around SERVICING, MECHANICAL & BODY REPAIRS, your requirements. WELDING, M.O.T. TESTING, www.masonspaint.co.uk BREAKDOWN SERVICE

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FREE RANGE EGGS pi Available from: Your local choicefo r storage The Old Buttery. High Street, Soberton, Contact: Carol or Barry Tel: 01489 877389 Enfiaii: [email protected] Secure Storage for Classic Cars, Archived Documents and Personal Property. Long or short term storage options available. To advertise please contact: For ALL your storage needs Anthony McEwen Contact StorAway on 01489 877988 [email protected] or www.storaway.co.uk 01489 877448

A WARM WELCOME AWAITS from Allan, Vicky and their team at The White Lion School Hill, Soberton

Beer Garden, Functions, Home Cooking and Local Beers COUNTRY now offering HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST COMPANY Recently created 4 double rooms each Sales 1 Lettings I Management beautifully appointed with en suite. Luxury accommodation on your doorstep! Selling, Letting & Managing properties in the parish of Soberton Telephone: 01489 877346 [email protected] 02392 632 275 countryhousecompany.co.uk www.thewhitelionsoberton.com Local History - some observations on Soberton in 1820

Looking at the Births, Marriages and Deaths for 1820 H. Hulton and Jas. Ede Esq. against William Coker one might think Soberton was a thriving parish with charging him with having on the 22"" August last, at twenty-three baptisms to only eight deaths but sadly the parish of Soberton carried and conveyed[335 or this was not the case. Soberton was an agriculture 535]gallons of Brandy, the duties thereon not having community and farming was in the doldrums. Of the been paid. twenty-three baptisms sixteen of the fathers were described as labourers and one a pauper. Two were Other 1820 newspaper reports of local interest. the daughters of the curate the Rev. White and one Assize at Southampton Feb 1820 boy's father was in the . •Henry Boulton & Thomas Butcher for burglary at Soberton Three of the eight deaths were of children under the •Wm. Kitchen for horse stealing at Boarhunt age of five, one boy died age eleven, two were in their twenties and the eldest was fifty-six. Statistics Denmead Farm A newly erected and convenient we can barely understand two hundred years later. brick built dwelling house vendor's name not given The poor had suffered poverty during the Napoleonic Wars from the very high prices particularly of bread. Droxford Manor House Academy Although the wars had been a tioom time for Mr. Aylward 27*' inst... has made arrangements for landowners and some farmers, peace brought the the reception of those young gentlemen who did not opposite and the agricultural labourers felt the return after the Christmas Vacation in consequence depression keenly. Work was sporadic and not of the weather. He will also be happy to receive other guaranteed, those looking after animals were in the pupils who may also be about to leave their homes best position as they needed constant care. for the attainment of their education. Terms moderate. Respectable references March 24*' In some areas a system of making up the labourer's 1820 wages by an allowance of bread according to the size of the family was adopted and this was pointed Young Ladies Establishment, Bishop's Waitham, to as being a cause of the high birth rate. But Hants The Misses Prowting announce to their children grow up and large families needed feeding friends and Pupils with their sincere so it is little wonder than many men resorted to acknowledgments, that the duties of Instruction wili poaching and petty theft from fields and woods. be resumed on Wednesday 26*" inst.

There was also some smuggling activity as was The Summer Assize at Winchester, 1820 lists a recorded by the last curate and first Vicar of William Singleton for setting fire to 3 barns at Soberton, the Rev. Morley, in his notes. Droxford and considered to be one of the most serious cases in that session. 'Close to the chancel door, outside, on the right hand side, is a vault, now level to the surface of the William, a local man was transported to Van ground: here the smugglers in olden times, used to Diemen's Land for life arriving in Hobart Town in deposit a considerable amount of their booty. The 1821. William Cobbett in his "Rural Rides" wrote grandfather of Mr. Day Holmes was for many years about 'a chap called Singleton, deemed a great the head of their gang. One of the smugglers who poacher, being ousted from an encroachment he had was very active was groom to the then curate, Mr. made in the Forest by a local J.P. by name Goodlad. White his cob often being brought into A horse was stabbed and Singleton was transported. requisition (unknown to his master, of course) in the Cobbett and Goodlad of Swanmore were not the best middle of the night". HRO50M73 PZ3 of friends'. It seems likely that this was William because we have in our archives information that he The Rev. White might well wonder why his horse was sought advice from Charles Pink of Wood End about so sluggish some mornings but I suppose it was in some property which he was told he had forfeited his best interest not to enquire too closely. Certainly because of his conviction. The ironic thing is that he was not a poor curate, renting Soberton House when the Assize opened at the Castle, Winchester before moving to Droxford in 1825. Smuggling amongst the jurors was R. Goodlad. A fair Trial?? continued, other horses were found to carry the contraband as a report in the Hants Advertiser and However, William made good. A document dated Salisbury Gazette of Sept 10*" 1836 confirms 1832 and bearing the seal of Van Diemen's Land states his good conduct and behaviour made him 'a Winchester... Before the County Magistrates on fit object... for an absolute remission of his Friday, an information was exhibited before Edward sentence'.

31 Our River — The Meon (Part 3A)- invasive Species

Earlier articles have covered the importance of the Warnford and Titchfield. This suggests that they River Meon as one of only 200 chalk streams are distributed throughout the river system but, across the world and the dangers of pollution to its fortunately, at a comparatively low density. very sensitive environment. This article and its successor in my series, will touch upon some of Signal Crayfish are listed under Schedule 9 to the Wildlife and Countryside Act. As such it is an the invasive species which threaten it and many other rivers around UK. Some threats are bigger offence to release or to allow the escape of this than others - in every sense! species into the wild. Previous trapping schemes by local landowners and community groups have Signal Crayfish proved in effective and are believed to have contributed to it spread. The Environment Agency Originally introduced from the USA as a potential no longer support such initiatives. So the current advice if you see one is "Do not trv to capture" but rather "Report" and locally the best route is via the Wildlife Trust: [email protected]

Finally - to avoid inadvertently spreading the spores of the mould. Signal Crayfish eggs and other potentially dangerous species, fishermen and others regularly accessing the river now adopt a Check, Clean (Disinfect), Dry approach after every visit. If locals up and down our valley took similar steps with their Wellingtons it could help the food source the Signal Crayfish, like so many restore our native White Clawed crayfish to their imports, has turned out to be a mixed blessing. rightful home and prevent other infestations. Much larger than our native White Clawed The Killer and Demon Shrimps Crayfish it has largely displaced them throughout Britain not just by out competing them for food but also because they carry a water mould known as "crayfish plague". This is lethal to our natives and spreads incredibly quickly, both by spores travelling downstream and infected Signal Crayfish moving upstream and between waterbodies (often over land).

The Signal Crayfish, compared to our own native, is a voracious predator eating almost anything including plants, invertebrates, snails, small fish These aptly named creatures originate around the and fish eggs. When other prey is short it Black Sea and are believed to have spread across cannibalises its own young. Fully grown its body western Europe via commercial shipping. The can be over 6 inches long (15 cm)with enormous Killer Shrimp was first detected in UK in 2010 whilst Demon Shrimp were first found some 2 claws. years later. It can also be identified by the red undersides of its claws and the white or turquoise blotches on their More is known about the Killer Shrimp than the surface. This invasive crayfish has now reached Demon Shrimp. It lives for only a year or so but is a fast breeder and females produce 3 broods per epidemic proportions in many parts of Britain and year each of which has an average of 150 eggs. marine biologists have been desperately seeking a They can tolerate a variety of environmental way of halting its relentless spread. conditions but prefer to colonise waters with a Our native White-Clawed Crayfish were abundant moderate to slow flow speed using faster water to in the Meon up until the 1980's, but have not been drift to new locations. recorded on the river since the 1990's. There is Killer Shrimps are considered to be one of the limited evidence of Signal Crayfish in the river but most damaging invasive species in Europe, with they have been detected near Soberton, the potential to significantly affect the ecology of our rivers. The shrimp preys on a range of native locals and there was much consternation locally animals, fish eggs and even young fish. It often when 'Heath Road' appeared! kills its prey and leaves it uneaten. This alters the ecology of habitats it invades and could cause The main presentation of the evening was given by our Chairman Duncan Colin-Jones on the extinctions. Venerable Bede; a man whose influence is still Whilst neither of these dangerous customers have with us today. Born in 673, Bede was an been found in the Meon (yet!) some similar non- exceptional talent: a scholar, a linguist, a scientist. native shrimps were detected in samples taken Our final presentation, centred around King near Titchfield Haven in 2017. They are clearly a Solomon's mines, was from Robin West. Robin threat. Shrimp species and their eggs can easily introduced us to Louis Leakey a British be transported around in damp clothing and paleoanthropologist and archaeologist whose work equipment because they can survive for a in Tanzania and Ethiopia was important in surprisingly long while out of water. If everyone demonstrating that that humans evolved in Africa. followed the Check, Clean (Disinfect), Dry procedures after going out and about near the Sadly, no lovely refreshments to round off the river the spread of such these small but potentially evening but it was good to 'see' everyone. voracious and dangerous predators might be Jill Woodacre writes that The History Society met contained. for the third time on Zoom on Thursday 9"^ July and was attended by 28 "Zoomers". Although Acknowledgements: these meetings are not the same as a face to face In preparing this article I would like to thank and meeting, they have at least enabled us to stay in acknowledge the support from staff of The Wessex touch and we have had some interesting short Chalk Stream and Rivers Trust and the Hampshire talks. & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. Any errors are entirely mine! July's meeting started with a very informative talk Anthony McEwen by Lyndon Palmer on the life of St Swithun - a local saint who was once Bishop of Winchester. There are some beautiful medieval wall paintings depicting some of St Swithuns miracles in Soberton & Newtown Corhampton Church. Local History Society The second talk was from Geoff Philpottc, have been busy... chairman of Wickham History Society who gave us zooming! an illustrated talk on the history of Bridge Street in Wickham. I'm sure we have all driven up Bridge Once again, the History Society held a successful Street many times, but it is an ancient street with Zoom meeting in June, with 31 members in buildings going back to 1495 and well worth a attendance, writes Kate Uttlng. much closer look. GeofTs talk was fascinating and a real insight to a very local area. The first presentation was from Chris Cole who, drawn to a large cardboard box in a The meeting ended with a request from our bookshop, unearthed twelve copies of both the archivist Ann Pendred for any information on a 1904 and 1905 St Peter's Parish Magazine, Richard Ring who owned land on the indeed the very first copy was printed in January Soberton/Hambledon borders, and his daughter 1904 and began life as an insert to The Elizabeth. There was also an Elizabeth Godley Churchman's Notebook', relying on advertising for who was a beneficiary of the estate, who died in Robin Starch, Bird's Custard Powder, Cadbury's New Zealand. Any information would be gratefully Cocoa to name but a few. received!

Our archivist Ann Pendred reported that she had There will be no meeting in August. We hope there received quite a few interesting maps related to will be a September meeting, whether on Zoom or the with many fascinating ancient face to face remains to be seen as Government place names. One interesting fact - the road from guidelines dictate, so keep your eyes peeled! If Woodend Triangle to the A32 was known as you wish to become a member of the Society, Stoneover Lake Road, or Stoneover Road by the please contact us - details are in Useful Information (inside back page).

33 School records and COVID-19 (Droxford Junior School)

I have occasionally wondered what I would write in However there is mention of the evacuee children a school log if it were a statutory requirement still (a from in October9'^ 1939... requirement that ended for headteachers in the mid 1980s). After the 1870 Education Act all schools "...The whole of the evacuated children from receiving grants had to keep a note of the schools Gosport were "cleaned up" by two nurses with the activities in the school's log book. The headteacher help of several helpers and the trouble of dirty had to write in the log book each day recording heads should now be at an end..." absence, sickness, and any other important incidents. The log books had to be accurate and up- So what of this year's events? A lot could be to-date because they were inspected by the LEA recorded for posterity. There is no requirement to inspectors and played a role in the entitlement of log attendance in the same way but surely the grants. The most repetitive account in the log books events of the COVID-19 pandemic and the huge is the record of the daily pupil attendance. This effect it has had on our school could be recorded. figure was one of the requirements for a grant. But what would one write?

Perhaps I would, using chronology, diarise the 100 plus days of school closure (nothing like it has been experienced since the Second World War). Back in

■'■"••■fit ^ /?/• f'- /X ■ ' late February early March 2020 we began to realise ^.,'..4. .,^ I 1. , something unprecedented was going to happen

, ^ with schools and education. Safety of children and ' I- ■,••■"■1. staff being paramount. Eventually with short notice ^ = - . / we were told we were told to close, on March 20"^. Well not completely. On Monday 23''^ March we were open for children of Key Worker families. We had two days to plan it all! No support or guidance ^ "-'A?'" which was very challenging.

Extract from log book In the early days of lockdown things were very different - in the psyche of the nation and what you saw on the streets and heard from the Government. This explains the level of attendance detail in Parents were already concerned about COVID-19 Droxford Junior School's log book(s) compared to a and were pulling children out of school - not diary of events. However they are fascinating at necessarily because we were a risk - far from it - times and occasionally open windows to the past. we already had an extremely tight hygiene regime in place with soap and sanitisers all around the For instance there is much detail about the school through necessity - but because families condition and welfare of children (which did affect were hunkering down. Locking themselves down. attendance) for instance on May 22"^ 1930, the We know that many were. Remember the lack of headteacher wrote... items in the supermarkets? The streets, parks and roads were empty. "...Just as school Is settling down to work, a large percentage of children were excluded for weeks I have been in work every day since March 23"^^ (bar with chicken pox, measles and scarlet fever..." a few days at Easter and half-term) - it has been some journey to get to where we are now. I have But there was little detail to major events such as seen and heard many changes. the school opening its doors for the first time or to the start and end of the Second World War. The So no support or guidance and people were only mention of the war on September 11"^ 1939 worried, protective and vulnerable in the early days. says... As a school we put a rota system in place to lessen the exposure in school. We were and are teaching . .owing to the outbreak of the war, the school did and caring for children whose parents are and not re-assemble as Intended today..." certainly were at greater risk of infection. A number of staff had to shield themselves and self-isolate but not always; not to the standard of schools but it and it is possible two members of staff were taken has happened and parents need a medal and a ill with COVID but as there was no available testing break! Parents have been amazing! June 1®' came we aren't sure. I took no risks - had the building and two thirds of Year 6 (30) returned and the deep cleaned, contacted Public Health England school was buzzing again with children. 60 spread and the Local Authority. They were all very kind across the school with key worker children with the and said I had done the right thing; not to panic; said feeling of getting back to normal. The staff at the many others had been in the same predicament - school have been amazing. They have only wanted keep calm; carry on and stay open. Everything was to be safe; teach the best they can in really shared with the governors and reported to parents challenging circumstances, keep in touch with in my, now weekly, newsletter and carry on. families and get back to normal business.

We stoically continued to Easter, staffing at bare Unfortunately, for the school log I would have to minimum levels but still managed to provide home also detail all the lovely things we have had to learning for all age ranges of children at home, cancel. The enrichment we use to enhance the providing the child care in school and keep parents children's learning here at Droxford. YThe school connected and up to date with everything trips, author visits, residentials for Years 4 and 5 happening. We also set up a laptop loan scheme and the summer camp for Year 3. We were even for families who needed help with technology and going to have a school from Gosport come and organised a food parcel scheme for free school camp on our grounds as part of our meal families. With the unpredictability of National Park Ambassador School Project(more of supermarkets I wanted a healthy solution for that in the next issue). We also missed lots of families to make meals at home together. opportunities to raise funds in enjoyable ways such as our Easter Fair; joining in at the Droxford Fair; In April and May we welcomed back more key book events and our Summer BBQ. Lots of lost worker children, whilst continuing to provide work at revenue! We have just had an in house sports day home and then we were told that from June 1®' we and will have some Year 6 leavers' events taking had to have children from Year 6 back in school. place behind closed doors. This was much publicised as it meant we had to teach children of no more than 15 per class (as It has been lovely having more children back. socially distanced as possible in school - see Seeing them learn. Talking to them and having fun. picture of classroom) but to the exclusion of all the Striking up the positive relationships. They are other year groups - bar key worker children. This happier: we are too! was greeted with a mixed reception. Staff were concerned and needed to know how. Year 6 With the announcement that schools are to return families equally and everyone else upset their in September - with all children back - a new children couldn't return to school. chapter is being written. I am currently working on the plans for this but it will be business as usual - with the caveat that we must remain safe; maintain those aforementioned hygiene regimes and be careful and responsible until we are told otherwise and a vaccine is in place.

I'm not sure what else I would have written in the log book. They are not personal accounts. They do not detail feelings and emotions. Perhaps I have covered enough with this account; my weekly newsletters; the home learning and the daily tweets.

That is probably enough for the time being. Time for a break.

SOCIALLY DISTANCED CLASSROOM Stay safe and best wishes Having two young boys myself, one in Year 4 and one in Year 7, I totally empathise. It has been so Matthew Dampier difficult for families. Home learning has happened Headteacher RBL Droxford & District Branch

75 years ago...

Plans for Operation DOWNFALL were prepared with 14 combat divisions earmarked for the invasion of Kyushu (the southernmost of the main islands) with 22 divisions to assault Honshu and the Tokyo Plain. Although supported by the British Pacific Fleet, the operation would be primarily American involving some 4.5 million men. It was estimated that at least 250,000 would be killed on Kyushu alone. It was planned for the operation to commence on 1st November 1945, supported by 3,000 ships and 2,500 aircraft launched from 66 aircraft carriers for the close support of ground forces. Despite these huge resources, the Japan signs the instalment of surrender onboard USS Ulissouri in Tokyo Bay on 2nd September 1945 Americans would be outnumbered on the ground by ratio of at least 2:3 and it later transpired that the ... on 15th August 1945 Emperor Hirohito Japanese still had more than 12,000 combat aircraft announced Japan's surrender. Although some at their disposal. The fanatical Japanese would fighting continued, the 2"'' World War was finally have fought fiercely for their homeland with fatalities over. on all sides likely to exceed a million. Overshadowed by the war in Europe, Allied forces Meanwhile, research continued to develop an had fought a vicious and costly campaign to counter atomic weapon and the first test took place in New Japanese expansionism in the Far East. British Mexico USA on 16th July 1945. Having first Empire forces had focused on the defence of India entreated the Japanese to surrender unconditionally and defeating the Japanese in the jungles of Burma; at the Potsdam Conference attended by Allied the US Army with Australian forces advanced up the leaders on 26"^ July, an atomic bomb was dropped Melanesian archipelago towards the Philippines; the on Hiroshima on 6'*^ August - destroying 60% of the US Navy and Marine Corps fought to tighten the city and killing 80,000 inhabitants. blockade of Japan and secure the chain of Pacific On 8'^ August, the Soviet Union declared war on islands captured by the Japanese. Meanwhile a Japan and commenced a major offensive with high proportion of Japanese forces were still 1,500,000 troops in Manchuria. Having received no committed to operations in China. In the wake of response from the Japanese, a further atomic bomb VE-Day, further landings took place in the was dropped on Nagasaki on the 9'^ - killing Philippines; US forces consolidated their positions 40,000. Although civilian fatalities at Hiroshima and on Okinawa - the last major island before Japan - Nagasaki were small compared to those inflicted by and British forces were on the verge of defeating the ongoing conventional bombing campaign, the the Japanese in Burma. By 22nd June, Okinawa significance of such a death toll from a single was in US hands with the Philippines liberated on weapon was not lost on the Japanese 5th July 1945. administration and the Allied powers were informed Since securing airfields in Saipan and Guam in that Japan was ready to accept the terms of the 1944, intensive strategic bombing of the Japanese Potsdam Declaration on the 10'*^. There remained mainland had been conducted. It is estimated that some wrangling over the terms of surrender but more than 500,000 civilians died in these raids finally a decision was made by the Emperor to (German raids on UK killed 70,000). surrender, one that ultimately would save millions of Okinawa provided the Allies with a launch pad for Japanese and Allied lives. the invasion of Japan. The 75''' anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day and the end of the 2"'' World War will be commemorated on 15'" and 16'" August. Details of local commemorations are on page 8.

The RBL Droxford & District Branch is aiways iooking for new members, both Service and civiiian, to help keep remembrance alive and support our Servicemen and women, veterans and their families. For more information or to join us, please contact the Secretary- Cdr Rob Scott RN at robmunroscott&aol.com or 01489 877800. www.soberton. org/rblweb. Black Tot Day,50 years on.,, By Rob Scott

repairing one of the largest ropes onboard which was rewarded by an extra tot of rum. 'Splice the Mainbrace' can still be ordered today, usually following a Royal visit or the birth of a new prince or ^1^ princess. In the absence of Service issue rum, -rr::'7 commercial branded spirits are provided at public expense instead. As a junior rating in 1970 and, having turned 20 in early June, I declared myself 'G'(for Grog) and drew the tot daily for its final seven weeks. The alternative was 'T'(Temperance) for which the princely sum of 3d (equivalent to 1.25p) a day was payable in lieu. On the final day,'Up Spirits' was "Up Spirits" - a sailor drawing his mess' rum ration in one piped at 1145 as usual and the ship's company of OF Her Majesty's Ships HMS LOWESTOFT (a Type 12 frigate) mustered on the flight deck. The Pusser (Supply Officer) was You may get your copy of this magazine in time handcuffed to the Gunnery Officer and made to to commemorate Black Tot Day on 31®* July. If walk the plank, and an effigy of the Ministry of not,just raise a glass anyway! Defence was hanged from the starboard yardarm. In the 18th Century, a Royal Navy sailor's daily Black mourning armbands were worn by many. As a ration included a gallon of beer and /4 pint of spirits. special treat, junior ratings were allowed grog The latter was invariably rum which was cheap and diluted 1:1 as opposed to 1:2 and senior ratings readily available from British West Indian colonies. took their tot neat as usual. We then threw our Beer was usually 'small beer' with a low alcohol glasses into the upper reaches of Portsmouth content but preferable to drinking water which was Harbour where the ship was moored at the time. often foul after long periods at sea. Food was also The demise of the tot was widely mourned by poor, and rum helped to compensate for this and sailors but 1/8"^ of a pint of strong rum (95.5 proof or the harsh conditions of service in a sailing man-of- 54.6% ABV)at lunchtime had become incompatible war. Not surprisingly, drunkenness was a problem. with operating modern equipment. Although those Admiral Edward Vernon, when Commander-in-Chief on duty were issued rum in the evenings of the Jamaican Station in the 1740s, ordered that ('missmusters'), most ships' companies spent the the rum ration be diluted with water and the issue afternoon over the legal driving limit! It had been a split between noon and evening. Due to his habit of popular tradition and, although contravening wearing a grogram cloak (a form of rough cloth regulations, was often used to reward favours or made from silk and wool), his nickname was 'Old honour wagers -'sippers' or 'gulpers'. There was Grog' and, therefore, the diluted rum became known sometimes even a spare tot which was passed as 'Grog'. Sometimes lime or lemon juice was around the mess as the 'Queen's tot'. In added to combat scurvy - the origin of the American compensation, the daily beer allowance was raised nickname 'limeys' for British sailors or Britons from two half-pint cans to three. generally. As a parting shot just prior to being relieved as First The rum ration was halved in 1823 and again in Sea Lord, Admiral of the Fleet Sir Michael Le Fanu 1850, and remined at 1/8'*^ of a pint per day until its signalled the Fleet: abolishment on 31®' July 1970. The Royal /Wosf farewell messages try Canadian Navy continued issuing rum until 1972 To jerk a tear from the eye and the Royal New Zealand Navy eventually But I say to you lot stopped in 1990; the Royal Australian Navy never Very sad about tot issued rum. Latterly, it was only given to ratings But Thank You, Good Luck, and with officers entitled when 'Splice the Mainbrace' Goodbye. was ordered. This referred to the onerous task of The Queen Cod Bless Her

Meon Valley Garden Club We are hoping that we will have a couple of events in September for the Garden Club. • Wed 2nd Sept. Garden visit to Weir House, 1.30pm at Droxford • Wed 26th Smell the Roses by Gillian Taylor Droxford Hall 7.30 pm ^CHTimon quesuuns watercourse? §Hampshire i fatt to watn-course on/«t|Bcent to County Council SOBERTON my tend and flooding occurs as a result, do I have to coRH>ensale fOT damage caused to odiers? PARISH if you do ncd carry cnrt your r«sg«5slJi«res. y

If I own tend on both bartes of a uetercourse am i tuiiy respoisd^ for its maKitoitmice? From working witti ojmmunities devefoptng new fkjod actiwi f^ns. to improvirtg the Yes, you are re^xm^le for the msriienance. m^i^ement of our rtatural restwrtss, I own land on one bank of a w^efcwrse,nrtwt «n Hampshire Cotmty Council's amWion is to be [ respoflsdMe for? at the forefront of flood risk and water management, creating a safer, more to most tos^ce, ywi ace resprms^ few 9ie m^l«i»ice to the cehtre toe wat^crn^. tt toe resiliefit Hamp^ire. watercourse runs ^ngside toe ht^wsy. you are re^jonstble for the mairiteoance of toe vtotoe This guidance provides {^>down«rs wnth watercourse This is because ttw m^orfy highways tnformatxm ttteir rights and details their se consbuctefi m a dechcahon of tend by landowners, lesponsibiiities for mairrtaining watercourses on mesisig foe soil b^ietoh toe ht^iway remafos ei toe or adjacent to ^eir iartd, te help reduce flood ownw^ip of the teHdowner. ri^ to ^eif

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tffgiefggariii ntflli Imd 73 o BHHB ifeBi'a«wy:awww89aw«wiBew'i»»iaKfc. O Riparian landowner responsibiliOes - Mantaei Wcd«^c(Hirs8S rwining in a ci^rt as d i were an c opei x^siQ for axampie r<»ts - let wstor ftow toreut^ your tend y^out «iy obstniction. 7i - Do not aSow toe watercourse to become pNMed. 11% podutioii or dwersifsi which aflecfs how ofoers reewve toe water tocludes toe depose of $^den waste on nverbanks vitoere K Ui -Acceptflood Bows ttiH»9ft your twd CDuld bewared foto tfie river m - Keep aey sbucUire. such as ba^ screens, deaf of d^is - Leave a developcnent-ltee edge on toe baiks to alow easy access for d fflafotenance or Inspectkm is regured - Mafotaei toe bed »id banks of toe w^cmnse and toe bees and ■ stmibs mowing (hi toe baiks Any Wfer (»rtosbucSons shouid be Nr^ify Hampsh^e Count)' Counoi d you wish to commie any ciesed. regardless of tirtiere they came Irem vemporary or pecmanent work (mi an ordfoary w^ercourse so the flood itok can be assessed (owc^ants.gov.uk) > O m Here are sorr^ of the steps you can take to protect and prepare your Property Level Resilience property for a flood event and to reduce damage should an event occur S m z

Circumstances for each property need to be assessed individually. Piesse see the Ns^nal Flood forum for further guidance

HamfKhtre County CmmQl is the Ledct Iocs Flood Authortfy m Hampshire Hampshire You can contact us wa fwm ^tents.^.ulciy01962 S^736 CoLjrrtv Council iWiiiiii>B3«rsjiT«r;

The end of free kerbside collection of garden waste, which has been provided by the council Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) for over a decade. Safeguard our district's extensive natural habitats The existing sack based collection service will end and and precious ecosystems by delivering the actions will be replaced by an improved service which will in our Biodiversity Action Plan include a choice of wheeled bins offered to WCC are continuing to deliver biodiversity gain through householders who wish to participate. There will be an current land management projects and work annual charge .which includes the supply of the bin and programmes. With regard to the Biodiversity Action fortnightly kerb side collection. The new service offers Plan (BAP), the Business Justification Case has been the benefit of greater capacity and improved storage of approved and a Members briefing took place on 30 garden waste between collections and will be easier June 2020, providing an update on the proposals for and safer to handle for householders and bin collection the new BAP as well as wider ecological initiatives. staff. It therefore provides a real benefit to those Production of the BAP has started, and the draft households, which wish to subscribe. The additional document will be presented to the Health & capacity of the wheeled bins mean that those Environment Policy Committee on 30 Sep 2020 and properties, which generate substantial quantities of Cabinet in December 2020. This plan will be shared garden waste, will be able to save on visits to recycling with Parish Councils for comment. centres. The council faces significant pressures on its waste collection budget as a result of changes being South Downs National Park made by Hampshire County Council and this new service offer is essential to help the City Council to Margaret Paren steps down after 10 dedicated years as control its budget on a long-term basis. Chair. The new Chair elected at the annual general meeting is Ian Phillips and Deputy Chair is is Vanessa An annual charge in the first year of the service is set at Rowlands. £39 for those choosing a 140 litre wheeled bin and £59 for those choosing a 240 litre wheeled bin. Grants

Many householders clearly regard it is an integral part The Grants Department are continuing to provide of the household waste collection service and there will c'ganisations with the opportunity to apply for match be some adverse comment on the move to a charged funding of up to £2000 via Crowdfund Winchester. service. However, in view of the financial implications of For more information visit introducing a charge for collections, about which the https://www.winchester.gov.uk/grants/crowdfunding council is being transparent, and the improved service which will be offered to those householders who take up the option, the experience of other authorities who have introduced charging is that it is accepted (albeit Current consultations reluctantly) as a reasonable measure and that it is in To view the Council's current consultations, follow this the long term benefit of residents. The scheme will start link in February 2021. https://winchester.citizenspace.com/ For more details check out the Cabinet Paper presented at the July 9th meeting via WCC web pages - What's on across the District Committees and then select the Cabinet date. For information regarding future events across the district, including festivals, please follow these links: Council plan 2020-25 Q4 progress update https://www.visitwinchester.co.uk/whats-on/ https://www.visitwinchester.co.uk/whats-on/festivals/ • Winchester City Council to be carbon neutral by 2024 Contact your councillors: •The Winchester district to be carbon neutral by 2030 Vicki Weston [email protected] • Reduced levels of waste and increased recycling, Linda Gemmell [email protected] exceeding national targets Frank R. Pearson [email protected] • An increase in the proportion of journeys taken by walking, cycling and public transport (read the full the cabinet report) HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

Dear Resident How GCSEs, AS & A levels will be Awarded in As we enjoy the sunshine and warmth of summer, I Summer 2020 hope that you and your family are keeping well and Ofqual has set out details for schools, colleges, safe. These are very unusual and students, parents and carers on how GCSEs and A uncertain times and so I want to preface my usual report with a j^f levels will be awarded following the cancellation of this word of thanks for the community| If year's exams. See groups and individuals who have & .. ||H| https://wvtfw.aov.uk/aovernment/publications/coronavir done such amazing work HjKti' 'J®l us-covid-19-cancellation-of-acses-as-and-a-levels-in- supporting the elderly or j ■jBj 2020/coronavirus vulnerable people in our ■HI Hampshire Libraries Re-open community as we fight the dreaded coronavirus. Thank Libraries re-opened from Monday 6th July 2020 but to you all, but please take care and stay safe. I have really reduce waiting times and allow as many people as missed the summer fetes and meeting for a chat, but possible to visit our libraries, people are asked to limit hopefully things will soon return to a new kind of their visits to a maximum of 30 minutes and to keep normality. browsing to an absolute minimum. Reserved items can also be collected at this time. Newspapers and Household Waste Recycling Centres magazines are not available for the time being. [HWRCs] Please bring your library membership card with you All sites are now open between ttie hours of 9.00 am - when you visit the library. 6.00 pm. Social distancing measures have been set in place. You must now have an appointment to visit any • Toilet facilities will remain closed to the public for Hampshire HWRC. To book an appointment visit the time being, • Shared computers - Computers are free of charge https://www.hants.Qov.uk/wasteandrecvclina/recvclina to use for all library card holders, to secure a centres/book-appointment You can also telephone session you must book in advance by calling 02380 179 949, Monday to Friday 9.00 am to 5.30 pm. 01962 454747 • A place to study - study places are available from Vehicle Registration for HWRCS 13th July: to secure a session you must book in The County Council has decided to postpone the start advance by calling 01962 454747 of the scheme requiring HWRC users to register their • Library self-service app - Customers are asked to vehicles, in order to access HWRCs. The scheme had use self-service machines to borrow or return items been due to come into force on 1st April 2020. The new where possible or download the new Libraries start date will be publicised in due course. Residents mobile app to check out books by mobile phone. are encouraged to take the opportunity to register their https://vtfVtfw.hants.aov.uk/librariesandarchives/libr vehicles at https://www.hants.Qov.uk/wasteandrecvclina/recvclina Returning books - we are accepting returned library centres/vehicle-reaistration/reaister. books. Our current opening hours are slightly different to normal and you may be asked to queue outside the library. If your local library has a book Coronavirus Information and Resources return slot you can use that at any time. All returned The Connect to Support Hampshire website provides a books are quarantined for 72 hours before they go wide range of useful links and information to assist back into circulation. older and vulnerable Hampshire residents during the Overdue loans - pay outstanding fines online at Coronavirus pandemic. Visit https://wvtfw.connecttosupporthampshire.ora.Uk/s4s/W https://vtfww.hants.aov.uk/librariesandarchives/libr herelLive/Council?paaeld-3491 arv/aboutus/termsofmembership or by using contactless kiosks inside the library. Support for Businesses Ready Reads: We Select You Collect - Library staff For information about the financial support and advice will handpick a selection of books for customers available for businesses in Hampshire from our who call 01962 454747 Economic Development service, Business Hampshire For elderly or disabled residents who cannot attend visit Covid-19: Support for businesses at a library or arrange for a carer to collect library https://businesshampshire.co.uk/support/covid-19- books, you can telephone 0300 555 1387 and the support/ books will be delivered to your home. Country Parks and Outdoor Spaces Car parks at the following Country Parks are open: June, 91 went to applicants in the care sector. Priority Royal Victoria, River Hamble, Queen Elizabeth and has also been given to small and medium enterprises, Lepe - normal hours and parking fees apply. Toilets public bodies such as local councils, the emergency are accessible too. Visitors should continue to follow services and construction companies. the social distancing guidelines in place to protect County Councillor Grants everyone from Coronavirus. A reminder to community centres, churches, schools, Hampshire Local Outbreak Control Plan parish councils and community groups such as In line with the next phase of the UK's response to the playgroups, scouts, parent/teacher associations, social COVID-19 pandemic, Hampshire County Council is clubs, lunch clubs, church groups etc that you are all required to produce and implement a Local Outbreak entitled to apply for a small grant from me. The group Plan. See must have a named Treasurer and a separate bank https://documents.hants.qov.uk/corprhantsweb/HCC- account, I cannot give funds to individuals. In the past Outbreak-plan.pdf The Plan details how the local I have funded bench seats, club outings, defibrillators, authority and its partners will respond to further new equipment for clubs and much more. The project outbreaks of infection to protect the public's health. must be discussed with me before an application is Through the actions set out in the Plan, the aim is to submitted. Visit reduce the transmission of COVID-19, protect those https://www.hants.qov.uk/communitv/qrants/qrants- who are most vulnerable, provide consistent advice to list/countv-councillor places and communities to prevent the spread of coronavirus, and coordinate testing across the county. I I Hampshire Day A summary of the plan is also available at I Did you know that 15"^ July is Hampshire https://documents.hants.qov.uk/corprhantsweb/HCC- Day when the Hampshire flag is flown? It COVID-19-Local-Outbreak-Control-Plan-Summarv.pdf is not a County Council flag, but a flag for Hampshire. The county flag is not owned by any one organisation Investment in Staff Apprenticeships and can be purchased from the Hampshire Flag More than half a million pounds has so far been Company. invested in employment training in Hampshire in the first half of 2020, under a Hampshire County Patricia Stallard Council scheme that aims to create more Lead Executive Member for Children's Services & apprenticeship opportunities in the County - with care Young People homes by far the biggest beneficiary. Hampshire County Council The funding forms part of a £900,000 transfer from the Divisional Member for Winchester Southern Parishes County Council's Apprenticeship Levy made available to help fund new apprenticeships until 31st March 2021. Of the 120 transfers approved by the end of

LOCAL PLANNING APPLICATIONS (This may not be a complete list but is based on availability at time of printing - some are still open and others are for info only)

SDNP/20/01939/FUL West Dene Horns Hill Soberton S032 3PR Retention of single-storey timber cabin for use as a residential annex to 'West Dene' & proposed use of'West Dene' as a self-contained holiday-let at weekends. Closing Date 24'" July 2020

SDNP/20/02175/APNB Wallops Wood Farm Sheardley Lane Droxford Hampshire Straw Barn and Covered Silage Barn Closing Date 03 July 2020 SDNP/20/01922/HOUS West Barn West Street Soberton Southampton Hampshire S032 3PL Demolish existing triple garage which is in poor structural condition. Replace it with a new oak framed triple garage with slate roof. The garage would be relocated within the parking area. Closing Date 16 June 2020

20/00880/LIS Old Manor Barn Ingoldfield Lane Soberton Southampton Hampshire S032 3QA Rear extension with 3no rooflights and Ino flue; Ino rooflight to east elevation Closing Date 24 Jun 2020 20/00796/FUL Adams Farm Cottage Southend Lane Soberton S032 3QB Proposed erection of stable building; equestrian use of land; provision of gallop beside north boundary; and alternative entrance and access drive via Ingoldfield Lane. Closing Date 5 June 2020 20/00854/HOU Willow Cottage Chapel Road Soberton S032 3PP Single storey rear extension following demolition on rear and side external walls Join our Community Team At the heart of Home-Start Hampshire HfeME To take on the role of chair you will need to be able to are our volunteers and we currently have build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and START organise and delegate tasks and responsibilities. But, an exciting opportunity available as Chair Hampshire of the Meon Valley Community Team. perhaps most importantly, you will understand and care about the work of Home-Start Hampshire and the Our community teams form an integral part of our families we support. volunteer network. They work in the local community to increase awareness of Home-Start Hampshire, making Key responsibilities include: sure that people that need help know how to access it and • coordinating the community team, including local building relationships with individuals, groups and • ambassadors businesses locally, encouraging them to support us in a • working closely with the Meon Valley Family variety of ways. Our community teams help make it Support team to understand what's happening in possible for the work we do to continue. the local area, where support is required and current goals As chair you will take responsibility for leading a team of • working with other community teams across like-minded individuals, all sharing the common goal of Home-Start Hampshire, sharing knowledge and supporting Home-Start Hampshire. Community team coordinating efforts where appropriate projects include, but are not limited to • event planning This is an exciting opportunity to join a well-established • fundraising team and support them as they continue to go from • relationship building and networking strength to strength.DBS clearance will be required. • identifying and applying for local funding opportunities If you are interested in finding out more about this • community engagement and awareness position, or any volunteering opportunities with Home- Start Hampshire please email [email protected]

Meon Valley Community Bus Association

New routes and A thank you from Phil Burton destinations '•'s*'* era B» Effective 3^ February Z020 I would like to say thank you for the support from MoEMlay W«^sday to our neighbours, friends and fellow villagers since Fareham I had an unfortunate cycling accident on Kiln Hill munlfy 8us Thursday to K tiRHrtabled Whiteiey Shopping Centre on 30th May 2020. The generosity has been ot/ 4aAse-«sfi. or Hedge Ertd Marks & extremely humbling and the thoughtful acts of Spencer a kindness in support of Emma, my wife, during

WinctMster, Wate the period have reinforced to me what a Petersgf wonderful community we live in.

Additionally, I wish to take the opportunity to acknowledge the many fellow villagers who work FjW*5 the SIVK FH PC 4 for or have previously had a vocation in the NHS. HAscssm Pcuwj PO & Stsei Vststtsa^ 6«e'«6a^H«i:PAj«ER»gi am% &9iM Sioadw*^ (mA S»1an HeaFti Sg^ Rr^e? PH Qe3» Let us all continue to work together, stay safe, be careful out there and please support the NHS.

liOO USEFUL INFORMATION Any additions or changes, please contact the editor

USEFUL NUMBERS 1 LOCAL CLUBS AND INTEREST GROUPS

Beat Surgeries Alternate Fridays Brownies & Rookesbury Hall Caroline Rogers 01489 877430 (tbc) 10:00 to 12:00 Guides Droxford 01489 877588 Film Club Lyndon Palmer 01489 896862 Doctors Wickham 01329 833121 Surgeries Denmead 02392 239630 Duncan Colin- Local History 01489 877237 Bishops Waltham 01489 892288 Jones Wickham 1st Wed 2.00-3.00 Soberton Football Keith Moran 01329 834897 Comm.Centre Baby Clinics Soberton Players Susan Hyland 01489 878724 Village Hall 4*^ Wed 10-11:30 Social Services Pete Woodacre 01489 877768 0845 600 4555 Table Tennis Direct Adrian Hunt 01489 878141 Hants Carers 08457 221122 Ladies Group Liz Whales 01489 877712 Helpline Good Neighbours Sue. Mussellwhite 01489 877282 NHS Direct 111 Group Philomena Bergin 02392 632551 Soberton Lunch Sandra Henderson 01489 877978 Club Age Concern Head Office 0800 328 7154 Norman Chapman 01489 877378 First Friday of each 12.30 - Church Room month Meon Valley CAB 01489 896376 Ian Adams 0845 833 7812 Lions Club LOCAL FACILITIES 11 COUNCILLORS

Soberton Village Central Meon Frank Pearson 01489 892822 Katie Flannagan 07850 569548 Valley Vicki Weston 01329 835161 Hall Booking Councillors Linda Gemmell 01489 895023 [email protected] County Patricia Stallard 02392 251484 www.sobertonvillagehall. co. uk Councillor Rookesbury Hall SOBERTON PARISH COUNCIL Jenny Doney 01329 834392 Booking vmw.sobertomorg Chairman, [email protected]. uk John Hyland 01489 878724 Finance, Planning Guide Hut Vice-Chairman, Mrs. 0. Rogers 01489 877430 Jane Masterman 01489 878580 Booking St Clair's Meadow Roads, David Salmon 01489 878659 Lengthsmen Transport, Bob Stranks CHURCHES 1 Emergency Plan 01489 878270 Newtown Church Fra Wells 01329 834130 Finance Arabella Turner 01489 878409 Wardens Barry Rowswell 01329 834671 Soberton Church Flood Action Louise McEwen 01489 877448 Rachel Hicks 01329 835050 Warden Group Sarah Page PCC Secretary(N) TBC Neil Findlay 01489 877259 [email protected]

PCC Secretary(S) Norman Chapman 01489 877378 TBC Wendy Prangnell 01489 877316

Clerk & Proper Capt. Of Bells(S) Noel Evans 01489 877271 Jenny Clarke 01489 877836 Officer Churchyard Keeper(S) John Lester 01489 878557

Please e-mail copy for the magazine to [email protected] NEXT COPY DATE - SEPTEMBER 2020

43 From the Archives.

Above - A postcard from the early part of 20thC being a composite of existing postcards of Soberton village views. The views are very recognisable today and they just remind us how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful part of the world - especially at this time, when many of us don't venture out too far. Top row l-r: High Street, The Towers, Big Tree Corner. Centre: St Peters Church. Bottom Row l-r: Church Road Newtown, River Meon, Webbs Green with The Falcon Pub. Postcards were an extremely popular form of communication at that time, cheaper to send than a letter and with several deliveries a day. We have seen postcards inviting people to tea on that same day!(postcard courtesy of M. Wingham)

Due to the extraordinary circumstances this year, the two Village fetes, which are an annual highlight of village life have had to be cancelled. Weatherwise, both Newtown and Soberton fetes are usually very lucky, but in retrospect, Soberton Fete would have taken place on a very wet and windy Saturday this year! Looking at the Parish Magazine of 30 years ago, the Soberton Fete report states that due to the weather, the fete had to be moved from Church Creen and Soberton House Garden to the Village Hall. Nevertheless, the proceeds were still £2700. Newtown Fete at the end of May fared much better with good weather and raised £4245 gross.

The Soberton d Newtown History Society has copies of the Parish Magazine going back to 1985. If anyone has any older ones tucked away in the loft, or in a cupboard, we shall be very pleased to take them off your hands!

(from the Archives of the Soberton & Newtown Local History Society) any additional information is always welcome. Please contact [email protected] or [email protected].