NEWSLETTER Address: Osborne Road, New Milton, Hampshire, BH25 6EA Telephones: Reception 01425 610495; Office 01425 620987

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New Milton & District Community Association NEWSLETTER Address: Osborne Road, New Milton, Hampshire, BH25 6EA Telephones: Reception 01425 610495; Office 01425 620987

ArtArt Registered charity No. 301897 SEPTEMBER, 2021

BallroomBowls Dancing Beading Bridge Board Games FROM THE EDITOR Canasta I trust you have all managed to make the most of our summer months as Book Club Chess well as the pleasures of this area in which we are so fortunate to live. Bowls Perhaps you have also taken the opportunity to explore other parts of Come Dancing Bridge the UK by way of a staycation - so many beautiful places, even if you Craft have to play safe and take an umbrella! Hopefully some more pleasant Canasta Cribbage days to come before we see evenings darkening a bit earlier and have to Chess think about checking our winter wardrobe. Darts Come Dancing Discussion Group Final Reminder: Our AGM will take place at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Craft Holidays 15th September. Members plus one person from each affiliate can Cribbage attend and vote. As we will still be taking some Covid precautions Jubilee Singers Darts seating will be 1m apart and anyone wishing to be present needs to Language Classes Discussion Group book a seat because numbers will necessarily be limited. A register will Line Dancing be held in Reception and you can either book in person or by phone. Film Show We have to advise that Glen Kennedy has decided to resign as Local History Jigsaws/Colouring Chairman, so grateful thanks must certainly go to him for heading Mah Jong Jubilee Singers up the Executive Committee through an unexpectedly difficult, unpredictable time. With things now approaching “near normal”, if any Men’s Get LanguagesTogether member feels that he or she might be interested in stepping into the Line Dancing Modern Ballroom Chairman’s role, will they please contact Bob Stevens, as Secretary. LiteratureDancing The Committee does need some “fresh faces” with new ideas, challenges, and vision for the Centre’s progress. LunchMonthly Club Luncheon Mah Jong Fans of the Jubilee Singers will be sorry to learn that Choir Conductor

MensNew GetForest Together Walks Janet Trow’s husband passed away last month. Our sincere

PianistsPianists Section condolences go to her at what will be a very sad, difficult time. Poetry Group Something rather appropriate comes to mind. Do any of you remember Poetry a well-known actress/singer/comedienne called Joyce Grenfell? She RefreshmentsRummikub often played the rather goofy “jolly hockey stick” teacher in the St. RoundScrabble Dancing Trinian’s films. When, many years ago, she realised her days were Scrabble numbered she left this message for her friends: “When I am gone, don’t Sequence Dancing speak of me in a hushed, solemn voice but in the way you have always SocialSequence Sequence done. Weep if you must, for parting is hell - but life goes on, so sing DancingDancing as well.” TableTable Tennis Tennis Whist Website: https://www.newmiltoncommunity.org.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nmdca/ Email: [email protected]

We have also just learned with much sorrow of the sudden death, in her sleep, of Jean Gales. She was a stalwart, keen supporter of the Centre, having run the Lunch Club for many years as well as being a volunteer in the kitchen and in Reception. Our condolences go to all who knew her.

Following up on a sad subject, last month was an unhappy one for me having learnt, a week before my birthday, that my sister had died. Not entirely unexpected but still a shock when it happened. Unable to make the journey to Essex for her funeral, I had to view the proceedings online and now try to console myself by remembering companionable days when (both widowed within three weeks of each other) we would meet up as often as possible to recall good times gone by, share lots of laughs and rather risqué stories. A reminder that we should cherish our family members while they are with us.

By the time you read this we may know if M&S really is coming to town, with the aim of opening by the year-end or early January. There are already a few mutterings that it’s too expensive for food shopping but devotees insist it would offer wider, slightly different choices. If it happens we should feel fortunate that such a store is confident enough to be opening up here when businesses, in general, are going through a tough time, and it would certainly give Station Road a much-needed lift. And now it seems we may have KFC taking a chance on us and moving into the old Natwest building. Again, perhaps not everyone will welcome it and would much prefer a more up-market restaurant where family and friends can be pleasantly entertained. Whatever the outcome, we need something which will show that the town doesn’t completely die after 5 o’clock!

What, if anything do you know about Morris Dancing? We see them at local events and displays - sometimes the subject of good-natured amusement at their ancient costumes, bells, and waving handkerchiefs. Interesting to learn that we have a Morris “activity” almost on our doorstep but, due to the pandemic and other issues, they are currently seeking new recruits and supporters so that they can continue to entertain and ensure their age-old activity continues to thrive. Read all about them on page 5.

So we came away from the Olympic Games with lots of of medals, and congratulations go to all the athletes for their efforts and dedication to their chosen sports. What leaves a rather nasty taste in the mouth, however, is to learn of the ungracious, petulant behaviour of some of them who had to “make do” with a silver or bronze. Little team spirit, no good-natured hand-shakes with the winners - just whingeing and crying like thwarted babies because they didn’t achieve gold. A culture spreading through to the young that you’ve got to win and nothing else will do. Sportsmanship seems to be a largely forgotten word. It was reported that, even when England lost to Italy recently our team threw their toys out of the pram and metaphorically chucked their medals in the bin because they weren’t gold! Many years ago, when music exams and auditioning became a part of my young life, my very wise Father said “Just do your best, accept any failure or rejection with good grace and be generous in defeat, because nobody likes a bad loser”. A lesson well-learnt and taken to heart. Perhaps today’s parents should tell this to their children - that it’s not the end of the world to lose - it’s the having a go, testing yourself and working with others that counts.

Last month the media reported that a man was accused of sexist behaviour because he told a woman she looked pretty! Since then a ruling has come out that wolf-whistling is banned! This confirms to me yet again that the world has gone mad and, in particular, this country has lost its once-innate humour and sense of the ridiculous. Courtship is an old-fashioned word but what, I ask myself, does a man do these days when, attracted to a woman or for any other reason, he wishes to pay her a compliment? A sue-able minefield! 2

Strange as it may seem, in my younger days I did attract the occasional wolf-whistle and usually took it in good part. If not, they got a Cockney comment to the effect that they should depart forthwith! No harm done - it didn’t upset me, make me cry, or seek counselling! Recently, I read in my daily paper a columnist’s article on this subject, which included a half-page of a famous comedian’s old scripts. Completely non-PC and he’d have probably ended up behind bars if he were to say all those things in today’s humourless environment. Yes, of course I agree wholeheartedly that we shouldn’t be encouraged to laugh at someone else’s expense, especially if it involves a disability, but everything needs to be taken in context and if comedy is delivered in sympathy, “with a twinkle”, then surely it shouldn’t be regarded as deliberately offensive? In these rather depressing times we all need to laugh and see the funny side of life instead of taking things so seriously and looking for something to complain about. Think we need to lighten-up!

Thought for the Month: In the 60s people took LSD to experience a weird world. Now the world IS weird so people take Prozac to make it seem normal. Phyllis Inglis

FROM THE CHAIRMAN Lockdown relaxation gave us the chance to open up the Centre. The feeling of normality soon started to show, with members pleased to be able to once again socialise and attend our activities. More sections are returning - Bowls came back three mornings a week last month and Fabric Craft, Extend and the choir have all booked to return this month. It is anticipated that still more will follow soon, including the wide range of language classes. Hirers are also back including I Talk, Line Dancing and Marshal Arts. We are doing all we can to encourage further attendance. The first Coffee Morning was well supported, with catering volunteers busy selling drinks and donuts. Thanks to those who arranged this event, and we may consider holding a Coffee Morning on a regular basis each month, so watch this space. For all you quizzers - Who invented the potato crisp? Answer next month. Glen Kennedy

FROM THE SECRETARY Continued Covid 19 Safeguards The Executive Committee met last month to review the safeguarding of members attending the Centre. It is felt that there are still considerable concerns over Covid risks, and with infection rates, hospitalisation and deaths continuing to be high, we cannot put the health of our members at risk. It has, therefore, been decided to continue our current procedures for a further four weeks. Activity and Section Leaders are required to ensure compliance amongst their members. Accordingly, for the next month we will still require face protection to be worn throughout the building, and social distancing maintained at 1 metre. Remember: Hands, face and distance. If you are planning to return or join the Centre, please be aware you will also need to show proof of vaccination. All this is for your safety, so do bear with us in these requirements. The situation will be reviewed by the Committee later this month, and you will be advised of our decision. Art Section: The Art Section, under the Chairmanship of Barry Richardson, has been disbanded and we now offer members the opportunity to join a NEW Art Section at the Centre. All those interested should contact Chris Lynott or John Revill to discuss the way ahead under new leadership. As Secretary of the Association I have to say that we are disappointed in the Art Section’s manner of leaving as no concerns or grievances relating to their decision were formally brought to our notice, as required by our Constitution.

Trustees: Richard G. Ferguson has resigned as a Trustee of the Association, and we wish to thank him for his years of service to us. We are now seeking a new Trustee and would welcome applicants who feel they may be interested in taking on this important position. Full details of a Trustee’s duties and responsibilities can be found on our website and full training will be given. Please apply to me as Secretary. Bob Stevens

FROM THE WEBMASTER This now-printed Newsletter is full of information useful to members but cannot be updated once it has been passed to the printers. The website has the advantage that it can be updated as frequently as required. So, with things changing so often and at the last minute, please do let me know so that I can amend information for anyone interested in your group. Another advantage of the website is that there is no limit of 12 pages each month. In fact, the website has a copy of all Newsletters dating back to 2016 and a selection of even older copies. Other Centre publications are also available including the new Diamond Jubilee Booklet which had been planned to go with the Jubilee celebration which had to be put on hold. It is in the website’s history section containing old photos and maps of the Centre’s early years. Photos re-taken in 2021 show how things have changed. If you have other old photos or information they would be most welcome. Nigel King

FROM THE MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY This is a difficult time for the Centre. Members are returning but not in the numbers that previously attended and, at the same time, Government support is coming to an end. It is an even more difficult time for Lettings Officer Chris Lynott who has to allocate rooms to groups of unknown size since they are not returning in their pre-pandemic numbers. You can help him if you can determine how many will attend your sessions, so that he allocates a suitably-sized room. For those returning the re-joining procedure is simple - pay for the current month and each remaining months of the year. So, joining in September will cost £4 but if you would like to help the Centre with a donation, it will be gratefully received. If you can present your old membership card the process will be even quicker. Please renew membership when you come to the Centre for a meeting as it may not be open at other times. Nigel King TO ALL SECTION AND GROUP LEADERS AND AFFILIATES We urgently need to up-to-date A4 posters for our noticeboards to display all the activities available at the Centre. Can you please provide an A4 poster giving a brief resume of your activity, the day and time it takes place, and how any interested person can get in touch with you to find out more. Please hand in the posters to Reception and they will be displayed in an appropriate location. Thank you.

COMMUNITY CENTRE TABLE TOP SALE This will be held during the morning of Saturday, 11th September, open to buyers from 9.30 a.m. Anyone interested in having one of the few tables still available (£5) should please contact June on 540310 a.s.a.p. Refreshments will be available.

COFFEE MORNING In aid of MacMillan, this will be held on Friday, 24th September.

CAFÉ This facility will be open every afternoon, plus Wednesday and Thursday mornings.

LUNCH CLUB Devotees will be delighted to learn that the Lunch Club has started up again - promptly at 12 noon on the third Thursday of each month. The Club caters particularly for members who live alone, providing a two-course meal. Everything is home-cooked, particularly the desserts, and fresh vegetables are used whenever possible. Tickets cost £3.50 payable in advance, on sale at Reception from the 1st of each month, and the planned menu is published in the foyer. Ticket-holders don’t need to queue in Reception but come straight in and take a seat. No need to queue for water as this will be served along with a choice of drinks (in a glass rather than a plastic tumbler!) at your table. You will see that the tables are nicely decorated to give a more homely, feel.

Please support the Lunch Club and, whilst numbers are reasonable, we can easily accommodate a few more, so do tell your friends. If you have any suggestions which you feel would make things even better, please let me know. Gill Ferguson

RECEPTION - REQUEST FOR HELP Could you spare a morning or afternoon each week to help us assist other members of the community? We urgently need more volunteers to work in Reception. You would be expected to deal with a variety of tasks including issuing keys, renewing membership, selling books and jigsaws, selling lunch tickets, answering members’ queries, etc. There are quiet spells during the session when it is possible to enjoy conversation with others, and you can leave feeling satisfied that you have been a great help in making visiting the Centre a pleasant experience. Free teas or coffee is provided during the session.

If interested to learn more of what is involved, please ring Reception Manager Gill Ferguson on 612612, [email protected]. Thank you.

NEW FOREST MEDDLARS Did you know that the New Forest has its own Morris Dancing Side? We are a mixed group, formed in 1990 and based in Lyndhurst, dancing mainly in the Cotswold and Border traditions. We also have dances choreographed in other styles and attend workshops with other groups (Sides).

Due to the lockdown and other matters our numbers have rather depleted, so we are attempting to recruit new members in order to ensure the New Forest can continue to be represented in this ancient activity.

During the winter months we practice from September to April at Emery Down & Bank Village Hall, Emery Down, Lyndhurst, SO43 7EB. From May to August we can be seen (mainly on Tuesday evenings) dancing at local hostelries in the Forest or on Lymington Quay. We also perform at local fetes and festivals in the region, with the aim of raising money for local charities.

We are holding two taster sessions on Tuesdays 5th October and 12th October from 7.30 to 9.30 p.m. at th Emery Down & Bank Village Hall. Why not come along and join us, see what we’re all about? It’s a great way to keep fit and active. No dance experience required, you just need to be of adult age. You will find a very friendly group awaiting you.

Do help us preserve and keep alive the long-established tradition of Morris Dancing. Alan Frampton (Squire), [email protected]

DID YOU KNOW THAT……?  Hamburgers were the first patties, invented in the 19th century with beef mince from cows reared in Hamburg.  Fortnum & Mason claim to have made the first Scotch Egg in 1738 as a convenient snack for the upper classes to eat on long coach journeys.  The ancient Greeks invented the first donuts - originally given as prizes to winners of the Olympic Games, marking it as a treat that’s lasted to this day.  You can get food poisoning from eating reheated rice! Uncooked, it contains spores which can grow into bacteria once cooked and then left standing at room temperature or heated up again.  To kill weeds or cracks in the garden path, driveway or patio, mix a lire of water with five tablespoons of vinegar and two tablespoons of salt. Mix, put in a spray bottle and aim at the weeds.  For rusty tools, mix salt with lemon juice and rub over the rust. A shiny, clean result.  Slugs and ants dislike salt, so spread around areas where you don’t want them to roam.  Hearing aids are not accepted by recycling centres or local authority schemes, but other organisations can reuse them. The Lions Clubs International Hearing Aid Bank Programme (HARP) aims to address hearing needs of children and others around the world and establish an international hearing/recycling programme to collect, refurbish and distribute donated hearing aids. They accept old, used and unused aids (regardless of size, condition or age). If donating an aid please ensure it is yours to donate as those obtained on the NHS remain NHS property and so should be returned to them when no longer wanted. Go online for Lions’ contact details.

News From the Sections & Activities

BRIDGE Contact: Marion Short, [email protected] A warm welcome back to all Bridge players. Here’s a reminder of our programme, all starting at 1.30 p.m. Chicago Monday Cut-In Tuesday (self-managed) Rubber Wednesday Duplicate Wednesday Social Improvers Thursdays (self-managed)

Our first Social Chicago will be held on Friday, 17th September. Players must come with a partner. It will follow the usual format with a raffle, so we ask you to bring small prizes. Proceeds will go to subsidise the Christmas Party on Saturday, 17th November. Of course, any member can attend the above sessions. However, the Monday Chicago is competitive (with a prize for the highest scorer at the year-end), so players need to be of a reasonable standard. If you would like to join the Monday Chicago session please come along for a couple of weeks to see how it works. Meanwhile, the Thursday group is there to help improvers.

Please pay your membership fee to the Community Centre if you have not already done so, and there is a table charge of £1.50 per player per session.

You will need to follow the Centre’s requirement of Hands, Face, Space, for the next month at least, and wear a mask at table. Windows will be opened, so please dress accordingly and bring your own refreshments. There will be a hand sanitizer on each table and players are required to use it as they move from one table to another. Bring your own pen for scoring.

PLEASE DO NOT COME TO A SESSION IF YOU HAVE ANY COLD OR FLU-LIKE SYMPTOMS.

We do look forward to seeing everyone again!

CHESS Contact: Ken Clark, 613666 Our group resumed its meetings at the end of August, and there has been an enthusiastic return to our weekly Thursday afternoon games. We have a range of talent and would be pleased to see new members of any standard. If you haven’t played before we will be happy to teach you this absorbing game - it’s not difficult and we do have a special “learners” set to help beginners. Why not come along and see us?

COME DANCING Contact: Julia Brown, 547039 Tuesdays7.30 to 10 p,m. The dance steps seem to be coming basck to us all - some quicker than others! Thanks go to Fred for becoming our Treasurer, James for taking on the role of Secretary, also to Andre, Barbar and me(!) for agreeing to remain on the committee. We will be getting together to arrange some “special” evenings, so watch this space.

LANGUAGES Contact: Susanne platt, 612680; [email protected] German (Improvers, Intermediate); French (Improvers) As I write this in mid-August we are all set to start our classes again. Let’s hope it stays like that!

German Improvers (for those with a basic knowledge of the language) From 7th September - Tuesdays 11.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. German Intermediate (for those who are able to conduct a conversation) From 7th September - Tuesdays 10 to 11 a.m. If you are a complete beginner but would like to learn German do get in touch. I am hoping to restart a German beginners’ class.

French Improvers (for those with a basic knowledge of the language) From 6th September - Mondays 10 to 11 a.m.

RUMMIKUB Contact: TBA A new Rummikub group will meet for the first time on Wednesday, 8th September, and will continue on a weekly basis. Everybody is welcome so do please come and join us for a friendly/happy meeting. Chris Waters, Group Liaison Officer

SEQUENCE DANCING Tuesdays 1.45 to 4 p.m. Contact: John and Margaret Larkin, 01590 670453, [email protected] This is a sociable afternoon of dancing with a refreshment break halfway through. We thank Delia and Richard, Lin and Alan for helping us all to remember the correct steps to some of the forgotten dances. Additionally, in order to maintain this programme, it would be helpful to have standby presenters in case of “pinging” etc. If you are willing to assist, please let us know. Entrance fee £5 per couple.

SOCIAL SEQUENCE DANCING Thursdays 1.45 to 4 p.m. Contact: Dave or Dee, 627922 Isn’t it good to be dancing again? Gentle exercise not only for our feet but also a wake-up call as we are all so much more reliant on memory and recollection of steps and routines. Gradually, with the music to assist, things are at last beginning to fall into place and, since opening with a small gathering on the first week, more people are beginning to filter back and enjoy the afternoon. However, moving forward, we desperately need to recruit at least one other music presenter as it is not easy and sometimes not viable with so few, to guarantee a presenter for every dance. We really do need help in order to keep the dances flowing on a weekly basis. CDs are available and help is at hand with suggestions, or even a specimen programme, together with training on use of the equipment. Your help is urgently needed so please give it a go and remember we are all amateurs!

TABLE TENNIS Contact: Secretary Gloria Lovelock, 613795; [email protected] Hi all! Table Tennis is open as normal, with Hands, Face and Space plus a vax. As soon as the café is open we will be starting our treat coffee mornings on the last Friday of the month.

Diary Dates - Singles and Doubles Monday evening Closed for the moment Tuesday morning 10 a.m. till 12 Wednesday evening Closed for the moment Thursday afternoon Closed for the moment Friday morning 10 a.m. till 12

To help us arrange the sessions, please let us know if you will attend any of the above open days. Session fees are now £1.70. TT annual subs have been held over from last year. See you at the tables. Glo and Glen

Glo’s Do-Das: Sometimes my brain is like the Bermuda Triangle. Information goes in and then is never found again!

News From The Affiliates

EXTEND Contact: Diana Steer, 610756 To those who have missed our exercise during the pandemic I am pleased to say I can now restart the class at 10 a.m. on Thursday, 9th September. The class is chair-based, using music and equipment to enhance the experience. We aim to improve mobility, strength, coordination and BALANCE as well as making you feel better in yourself. You may even make new friends and socialise over a “cuppa” after the class! Please give me a ring if you’ve not been with me at the Memorial Centre and now wish to join us. It will give me an idea of how many might turn up. In the meantime, STAND to sit and SIT to stand, using legs only (no hands involved!).

MILTON HERITAGE SOCIETY Contacts: Chairman Nick Saunders, 618549, [email protected]; Secretary Steve West, 6199058, [email protected]. 7 p.m. Friday, 10th September, talk by Society committee and members on local myths and legends. 7 p.m. Friday, 8th October, talk by Stephen Robson on Charles Rolls and the History of Early Flight. Please contact either Nick or Steve for venue details. Members free, visitors £5. Membership fee is £12 per annum.

PHOENIX HOLIDAY GROUP Contacts: Pat McKean, 278669; Richard White, 01590 682427; [email protected] Outings: 31st August - Unfortunately the Gosport Ferries trip up the Hamble River was cancelled by the boat company and we have not been able to arrange an alternative date at this time. 3rd October - Horse-drawn barge trip on the Torrington Canal, £39. A lunch stop is being arranged. Holidays: 17th/20th September, Cardiff - Due to lack of support this has been cancelled. It will be rescheduled with a slightly amended itinerary. 7th/11th November, Sidmouth - Four-star Belmont Hotel. 5 days £595, sea view £675. Includes Barnstaple with complimentary lunch at another Brend Hotel, tour of Exeter by local guide, Donkey Sanctuary, etc. Please contact us a.s.a.p. if interested. 9th/13th May, North Yorkshire - Staying in Scarborough.

Meetings: Community Centre 10 a.m. till noon Friday, 17th September; Greystones Hall, Highcliffe, 2.30 p.m. Friday, 3rd September.

THE ARTS SOCIETY, NEW MILTON Contacts: Chairman Chris Davies, 07768 648604; Membership Secretary Wendy Hazell, 07766 073096 Come and join us for our next lecture on Thursday, 9th September when Dr. Neil Faulkner will talk about Lawrence of Arabia - “Excavating A Legend”. We meet at 10 a.m. for coffee at the Memorial Centre and, after the lecture, there will be time to socialise with drinks and nibbles. For those members who prefer to stay at home the lecture can be watched on Zoom. The lecture will begin at 10.30 a.m. and the Zoom link will be sent out in good time. Visitors £6. For further details do contact Chris or Wendy, as indicated above. 8

This Month’s Quiz 1. What spice is often sprinkled on strawberries? 2. Where is red rice usually grown? 3. In Italy, what is considered the “King of Cheeses”? 4. What are poor man’s oysters? 5. What is halloumi? 6. Sloe berries come from which tree? 7. Bread, cheese and what else is deemed to be a Ploughman’s Lunch? 8. What is a chapati? 9. Is it true or false that vegetables were rationed during WW2? 10. What is the drink often served in a schooner? 11. How are puy lentils different from other lentils? 12. What does MSG on a food label stand for? 13. What is khichri also known as? 14. What do the Americans call a skillet? 15. What is quark made of? 16. What is salsa? 17. Haggis is traditionally encased in what? 18. What is aspic? 19. What is the main ingredient of pease pudding? 20. What type of icing is traditionally used on wedding cakes? ______

Bits & Pieces

I know the voices in my head aren’t real, but sometimes their ideas are absolutely awesome! Glo

BENDING THE RULES Visiting her bank, an elderly lady asked to withdraw £10, and she was told that for withdrawals of less than £100 she should use the cash machine. When she queried this, saying she didn’t really know how to use the machine, the cashier irritably said “They’re the rules Madam and I can’t help you - there’s a queue behind you waiting to be served”. The lady thought for a moment and asked to withdraw £300. Taking the money, she put £10 in her purse and then told the cashier to pay £290 back into her account! There’s always a way of getting round the system!

THOSE WERE THE DAYS, MY FRIENDS! Back in the days of tanners and bobs, when mothers had patience and fathers had jobs When football team families wore hand-me-down shoes and TV gave only two channels to choose Back in the days of threepenny bits when schools employed nurses to search for your nits Snowballs were harmless, ice slides permitted, and all of our jumpers were warm and hand-knitted Back in the days of hot ginger beers, when children remained so for more than six years When the young respected what older folk said and pot was something hidden under the bed Back in the days of Listen With Mother, when neighbours were friendly, talked to each other When cars were so rare you could play in the street, doctors made house calls, police walked the beat Back in the days of Milligan’s Goons, when butter was butter and songs all had tunes It was dumplings for dinner and trifle for tea, and your annual break was a few days by the sea Back in the days of Dixon’s Dock Green, Crackerjack pens and Lyons ice cream When children could freely wear NHS glasses, and teachers stood at the front of their classes Back in the days of rocking and reeling, when mobiles were things you hung from the ceiling When woodwork and pottery got taught in schools, and everyone dreamt of winning the Pools Back in the days when I was a lad, I can’t help but think of the fun that I had Hopscotch and roller skates, snowballs to lob — Nostalgic thoughts of a tanner and bob!

THE MODERN WORLD I’ll never really understand this computer age, the only tweet I get is from my budgie in his cage As for emails I always write a letter, put in the postbox and it feels so much better My phone may not be smart but I can make a call, and isn’t Google something to do with a cricket ball? Never will I shop online, I use my local store and, as for reading Kindle, isn’t that what books are for?

People ask “Have you got wifi?” “Well, no” is my reply, I continue to be happy with my old hi-fi My only laptop is a tray, I don’t use online banks - When you talk about What’s App, I reply “I’m really quite well, thanks!”

A SPECIAL LOVE STORY We’ve been together now for many years, I knew that it would last And to me each month of every year has ticked by far too fast Just being with you puts a spring into my step And with hand on heart I can say there’s never been regret You’ve seen me through the good times and helped me through the bad Always put a smile on my face when I’m feeling rather sad That feeling seems quite mutual, for I helped when you were ill And it warmed your heart my being there - I could always tell I swore from the first day I met you that your life I would defend As we left the gates at Battersea, my faithful four-legged friend!

OBSERVATIONS OF SENIOR CITIZENS 1. It’s OK to talk to yourself. There are times you need expert advice. 2. Your people skills are fine. It’s your tolerance for idiots that needs working on. 3. Ageing might have slowed us down but it doesn’t have to shut us up. 4. “One for the road” means visiting the loo before leaving home. 5. You’re not fat - you’re just easier to see. 6. It’s ironic that the colours red, white and blue stand for freedom - until they’re flashing behind you. 7. Money can’t buy you happiness, but it keeps the kids in touch. 8. Growing old should take longer.

And finally…… If you think that nobody cares whether you’re alive, try missing a couple of payments!

REMEMBER THAT IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN PERHAPS JOINING ONE OF OUR OWN SECTIONS OR ACTIVITIES, YOUR FIRST “TASTER” VISIT WILL BE FREE OF CHARGE

NEED HELP? The following have been recommended by members and pay a nominal sum to advertise in this Newsletter throughout the year. Inclusion does not indicate Association endorsement!

BATHROOM & KITCHEN UPGRADES Mike Brewster, Halton Property Services. Local friendly installation service for updating kitchens and bathrooms. 07736 679390/01425 615236; [email protected]; www.haltonps.co.uk FIRST CHOICE ELECTRICAL Dave Woodhouse for all electrical work. 01425 619705/07971 050557; [email protected] FRUSTRATED BY COMPUTERS? I offer a local, friendly, inexpensive repair and tuition service. Over 25 years’ PC Experience. David Mason, 01425 626112/0-7851 335749; [email protected] GILES TATHAM, RFHP, SACDip., FHP. Qualified foot health professional. Nail cutting, callus, corns, diabetic foot care. Full treatment or just nail-cutting. Appointments in the comfort of your own home. Call 01202 986164. NEW FOREST HOME CARE LTD. Providing all aspects of care in the home by reliable, fully trained and qualified staff. For details contact 01425 621461, [email protected]. PAINTER & DECORATOR Andy Scrutton. Prompt, reliable service. No job too small. 01425 276973/07526 542040. PLUMBER & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Contact Guy Callway, 34 Barton Court Road, New Milton, BH25 6NR. 01425 620858/078980 172151 J.STEEL DOUBLE-GLAZING REPAIRS Window doors, locks, hinges, handles, misted glass, etc. No job too small. 02380 570700/078370 82309; [email protected]

Affiliated Organisations

Accord Legal Services Ltd. Rebecca Callow 07712 045969 What's On in September Brockenhurst College Mrs. R. Clark 01590 625222 CAMEO - Ladies’ Group Margaret Sheldrake 628675 Regular Hirers Coastal Medical Partnership Matt Perkins 621188 Contact the Hirer if you wish to join Extend Exercise Diana Steer 610756 Hirer Session Day September HOPe - Brockenhurst Yoga E Tues 7,14,21,28. Helping Older People New Forest Jo Kane 629009 Improve-Your-Balance Martin Common 07973 639348 C & NF Nat.Trust E Wed ----- Milton Heritage Society Nick Saunders 618549

CAMEO Ladies M Wed 1. Doohan Yoga E Thurs 2,9,16,23,30. Modern & Social Sequence Dancing Mr. R.J. Gillies 07582 969111

EWE 2 Club A Thurs ----- Mornington Care Home The Manager 460883 Neighbourcare New Milton David Whittington 611662

EXTEND M Thurs 9,16,23,30. New Forest Players Gordon Baker 627239 Hort. Society E Wed 15. Mandela Book Grp E Mon ----- New Milton Carers’ Support Group Maggie Salame 614714

New Milton Friends Group Fran Carpenter 07867 502624 Martial Arts M Sat 4,11,18,25. New Milton Horticultural Society Dane Thomas 07941 207985 NF Quilts Group E Mon 6. New Milton Indoor Bowling Club Bernard Barwick 63950 Tangent Yoga E Thurs 9,16,23,30. NM Macular Support Group Rt. Rev. Paul Burton O7802 222604 NM Sands WI A Mon 20. New Milton Local Quakers Rosemary Wells 614279 Townswomen's Guild A Mon ----- New Milton Quilt Group Jenny Davies 620680 U3A Family History M Mon ----- New Milton Residents’ Association Alan Watson 07771 754025

U3A Joy M Thurs 23. New Milton Stroke Group Phyllis Inglis 615069 ----- U3A Local History M Wed New Milton Talking Newspaper Mr. A. Singfield 616361 U3A Singing A Mon ----- New Milton Town Partnership John Evans 610943 Open Sight Mrs. P. Batchelor 627460 U3A World History M Thurs -----

Weavers & Spinners M Mon 20. Phoenix Holiday Group (Highcliffe) Pat McKean 278669 Royal British Legion NM Branch Phyllis Inglis 615069 R.N.L.I. Steve Sinyard 07445 929006 SSAFA Sue Larking 07712 569016

Sullivan Lawford Nathan Gooch 200668 The Art Society New Milton Chris Davies 07768 648603 U3A New Milton Mrs. V. Reece 511963

INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES: Miss W. Maund Mr. G.F. Denson Mr. R.G. Ferguson

TRUSTEES/EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: President Malcolm Swan Chairman Glen Kennedy Vice Chairman/Maintenance Officer Ken Redburn Secretary/Health & Safety Officer Bob Stevens Treasurer John Revill Membership Secretary/Webmaster Nigel King Lettings Officer Chris Lynott Social Secretary Pamela Badcock Liaison Officer Chris Waters

Non-Committee: Newsletter Editor Phyllis Inglis Reception Manager Gill Ferguson Catering Contact Genevieve Sagar

What's On in September Regular Events (Covid-19 restrictions permitting)

Section /Activities Time Day September Section /Activities Time Day September Art 2:00 PM Wed ----- French Improvers 12:00 PM Mon 6,13,20,27. Ballroom Dancing 2:00 PM Mon 6,13,20,27. French Int/Adv 9:55 AM Mon 6,13,20,27. Ballroom Dancing 2:00 PM Tues ----- German Beginners 11:30 AM Tues 7,14,21,28. Ballroom Dancing 7:30 PM Thurs 2,9,16,23,30. German Improvers 10:00 AM Tues 7,14,21,28. Beading 7:00 PM Wed ----- Italian - Beginners 2:00 PM Fri ----- Beading 9:45 AM Thurs 2,9,16,23,30. Italian - Improvers + 10:00 AM Fri ----- Bowling 6:30 PM Mon ----- Italian - Improvers + 11:15 AM Fri ----- Bowling 9:45 AM Tues 7,14,21,28. Italian - Manuela 11:30 AM Thurs ----- Bowling 9:45 AM Wed 1,8,15,22,29. Line Dancing 12:15 PM Fri 3,10,17,24. Bowling 9:45 AM Thurs ----- Literature Group 2:00 PM Wed ----- Bowling 9:45 AM Fri 3,10,17,24. Luncheon Club 12:00 PM Thurs 16. Bowling 6:30 PM Fri ----- Mah-Jong 1:30 PM Fri ----- Bridge Chicago 1:30 PM Mon 6,13,20,27. Mens Get Together 10:00 AM Thurs ----- Bridge Cut in 1:30 PM Tues 7,14,21,28. Piano 10:45 AM Mon 6,13,20,27. Bridge Partner 1:30 PM Wed 1,8,15,22,29. Piano 10:45 AM Tues ----- Bridge Duplicate 1:30 PM Wed 1,8,15,22,29. Poetry 10:30 AM Thurs 16. Bridge Friendly 1:30 PM Wed 1,8,15,22,29. Rummikub 10:00 AM Wed 8,15,22,29. Bridge Friendly 1:30 PM Thurs 2,9,16,23,30. Saturday Dancing 7:30 PM Sat ----- Bridge Cut in 1:30 PM Fri 10. Scrabble 1:30 PM Mon ----- Bridge Chicago 1:30 PM Sat ----- Sequence Dancing 1:45 PM Tues 7,14,21,28. Canasta 1:30 PM Thurs 2,9,16,23,30. Social Seq Dancing 1:45 PM Thurs 2,9,16,23,30. Chess 1:30 PM Thurs 2,9,16,23,30. Spanish Conversation 10:00 AM Mon ----- Choir 2:00 PM Wed 1,8,15,22,29. Spanish Beginners 11:15 AM Mon ----- Come Dancing 7:30 PM Tues 7,14,21,28. Spanish Beginners 11:15 AM Fri ----- Craft 10:00 AM Wed 8,22. Spanish Improvers 10:00 AM Fri ----- Cribbage 2:00 PM Tues 7,14,21,28. Spanish Circle 7:30 PM Tues ----- Darts 2:00 PM Mon ----- Table Tennis 7:00 PM Mon ----- Darts 2:00 PM Tues ----- Table Tennis 10:00 AM Tues 7,14,21,28. Discussion Group 2:00 PM Tues 14. Table Tennis 7:00 PM Wed ----- Fabric Craft 2:00 PM Thurs 9,23. Table Tennis 2:00 PM Thurs ----- Film Show 2:30 PM Sun ----- Table Tennis 10:00 AM Fri 3,10,17,24.

Editor’s Contact Details: Mrs. Phyllis Inglis, 8 The Scarletts, 60 Whitefield Road, New Milton, BH25 6FA. 01425 615059; [email protected]. Copy deadline date is 18th of the preceding month (a week earlier in December for the January edition). The Editor reserves the right to adapt/summarise any contributions received.

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