LONGSTOCK21 Febmar 210121 FINAL.Spub

Page 1 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021

Green bags are collected on Tuesdays of the spring of promise A Cole, E. Photo: same week as brown bins. To subscribe please Police non-urgent calls 101 Here we go again! contact TVBC on 368000. Neighbourcare Andover 336 020, 339 899 Sophie Walters, Chair to the Parish Council writes Foil is collected at Chilbolton’s West Down car Surgery 810 524 park & at Andover Garden Centre. Helpline for Carers (Freephone) 0800 032 3456 I know that the present situation is presenting yet more hurdles for us to navigate but we can Plastic pots are no longer recycled there. Hants County Council information 0300 555 1375 get through this nightmare. We have had and indeed do have some cases of Covid-19 in the Glass recycling. The PC is investigating suitable village, we are not impenetrable, everyone is at risk so please be careful. We send our thoughts sites for a bin in the village. Test Valley Borough Council 368 000 and prayers to all our friends and neighbours who are having to cope with the virus and its Glass, clothing and foil recycling bins are Citizens’ Advice Bureau 0344 411 1306 effects Ð we’re here to help if we can. avalable at Chilbolton Down car park, and at To call anonymously with information Andover Wyevale Garden Centre. about crime: Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Longstock is a wonderful village and the feeling of community is truly heart-warming. I’ve spoken to people who are struggling but the recurring words that come back are “I’m ok, I’ve got fabulous There is a collecting box for clean TRANSPORT neighbours”. This is what a community is, ready to help, there when needed and able to listen. We are plastic milk bottle tops in the Stagecoach Stockbridge to Winchester church lychgate, and a separate one buses number 68 0345 121 0190 doubly lucky to also have Henry Smith’s Charity supporting us. Several cheques have been distributed to for batteries. Please don’t put either residents and I’m so glad to hear that this really does make a difference to people’s lives. Talking of Cango buses to Romsey have been replaced with in plastic bags. Batteries can also be Henry Smith, we usually have a great lunch for every resident over 60 around February or March. This is disposed of in supermarkets & should shared taxis to your door .Register on not go in dustbins. 01962 846 786 a highlight in the Parish Council’s year, it’s always very well attended, fabulous food, lots of chat and The batteries (small, not car!) will be taken for Traveline for countrywide travel info banter all washed down with whatever you fancy! Sadly, we will have to postpone this year Ð not cancel, safe disposal; and clean plastic milk bottle tops 0871200 2233postpone. We will try and organise an event sometime in the summer in lieu of the usual lunch. So, watch with the HDPE symbol will be recycled to raise Dial-a-Ride (Joyrides Stockbridge). Minibus to this space for dates and plans. funds for the Gift of Sight’s research into macular Andover. Register on 356 808 My feeling is that we are now the right side of Christmas, the evenings are getting lighter, Snowdrops degeneration. NO OTHER TYPES This runs through Longstock on Wednesdays at OF TOPS PLEASE as these are the only 9.30, returning at noon, for £5 return, or £3 for have been sighted and the Daffs are pushing their way up Ð a sure sign spring is on the way. Keep positive ones accepted now, and PLEASE don’t put bus pass holders. For more information, ring everyone we have a vaccine to get us through this. Let’s get the elderly and vulnerable protected and batteries in with bottle tops.The consequences John Musters 810 459 or Dane Oliver 810 slowly, slowly we will get back to some semblance of normality. If you are feeling low, alone or just in are DIRE! 839. need of a chat do please call your patch leader who will be happy to chat and help in any way they can. Just ask!

The deadline for newsletter submissions is Friday 19th March if you’d like to submit any news or comment, or offer to help! [email protected] Page 2 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 2 Recreation Ground Ð The Rec is still open for Parish Council Report Parish Council Parish Councillors: by Mark Flewitt, Parish Clerk residents, but everyone is reminded to observe the latest government guidelines, including social Meeting Dates Monday 8th Feb Ð at 7.00 pm Chairman: Sophie Walters Parish Council (PC) Meetings Ð the PC continues distancing, hand sanitising etc. [email protected] 07740 443 460 to run its regular meetings on a virtual basis via Streetlights ÐThe final phase of the replacement of Monday 8th Mar- at 7.00 pm Zoom. All residents are very welcome to join and the streetlights throughout the village is now These meetings will be held as virtual Councillors: view the virtual PC meetings. Information is meetings via Zoom. All residents are welcome David Burnfield, [email protected] complete, following the delivery and installation of to view and contribute provided on the village noticeboards and on the PC the further 9 LED streetlights for Roman Road, 810 529 website. John Eastwood [email protected] Southside Cottages and Houghton Road. 07880 644 977 PC Finance Ð The financial review as at Dec 20 Traffic Speed on the Bunny Ð The PC is working Newsletter editors wanted! Angie Filippa, [email protected] shows that the PC finances are in line with the on the process to reduce the speed limit to 30 mph 07817 576 346 budget projection of a year-end bank balance in Mar The Newsletter editorial team is looking for help Ivan Gibson, [email protected] 810 002 across the whole length of the Bunny. Further with text editing. This is a fun job that helps to 21 of £2.5k, following the final installation of and updates will follow. Charles Grieve, [email protected] payment for the new streetlighting. maintain the village community. 810 580 War Memorial and Benches Ð In view of the Selina Musters, [email protected] The PC has decided to increase the annual Precept We use Microsoft Publisher/Swift Publisher for text grime and dirt that has accumulated on the War editing so a basic level of computer skills is required 810 459 amount collected through TVBC from £8k to £8.5k Memorial and the 3 adjacent benches, the PC will in addition to a bit of time every two months. Clerk Mark Flewitt with a view to gradually rebuilding a stable PC arrange for them to be cleaned. It is important to reserve of £5k. Training, tools and support provided! [email protected] 810 752 maintain and protect this important and iconic space Colin McIntyre, [email protected] The PC has agreed to an approx. 10% increase in the in the heart of our village. Do get in touch with us at advertising rates for the Newsletter. This should [email protected] District Councillors: enable the Newsletter to be self-financing again Census 2021 Ð The 10-yearly National Census is Ian Jeffrey, [email protected] due to be held on 21st March 2021. The PC is 01794 388872 following the introduction of colour pages in 2020. providing assistance in the communication process This Newsletter is published by Longstock Alison Johnston, [email protected] Neighbourhood Plan (NHP) Ð the NHP Steering to our residents. Further information is provided 01794 517939 Parish Council and delivered free to every household in Group are reviewing the Housing Needs Tony Ward, [email protected] elsewhere in this Newsletter. Longstock. Assessment, prepared by consultants AECOM, and 01794 389649 TVBC are helping to analyse the more than 90 Disused Chalkpit on Bottom Road Ð This plot of land is an asset of the PC, and the PC is intending to Anyone else may subscribe at £10 a year by contacting County Councillor: responses received on the Housing Needs Survey. [email protected]. Andrew Gibson, [email protected] More details elsewhere in this Newsletter. consider potential local projects that may be able to provide long-term benefits to the community. 01264 861138 Longstock Parish Council Website ÐThe PC website at www.longstockparishcouncil.co.uk, Freedom of Information Request (FoIR) Ð The includes past and current Parish Council PC has received a FoIR and is dealing with it in documentation and other useful information. accordance with the relevant legislation and guidance. Bottle Bank and Recycling Site Ð We are delighted that the new recycling site has been installed at the Recent Expenditure Leckford Farm Shop site in January. The PC is very SSE - Streetlighting Electricity Supply £106.66 grateful for Leckford Estate’s help and cooperation Sarsen Press Ð newsletter printing £307.64 in making this site available. Utili-Light Ltd Salisbury Hill Pavements and Trees Ð Following - Installation of new streetlights £2,928.00 representations to the PC from parents of children at Test Valley School about the narrow and overgrown IG Ð Cemetery and Playground mowing £500.00 pavements on Salisbury Hill, the verges and Royal British Legion undergrowth have been cut back by HCC. Ð Remembrance Day wreath donation £100.00 Police Update Ð following PC letters to our MP, and GDPR/Data Protection Licence to the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner, annual renewal £35.00 we have received confirmation of significant new recruiting developments at Stockbridge Police Recent Planning Applications Station. 3 new PCs will be in place by end-January Ð Old School House; New building and tree 21, with a further 2 new PCs arriving in March. In works - PC SUPPORT addition, 3 new PCSOs will be arriving by end- April. Ð Vale House; Replace conservatory with extension Ð PC SUPPORT Test Valley School Ð The new Head, Toni Wilden, joined the Dec PC meeting to provide an update on Ð Church Farm; Tree works Ð PC OBJECTION developments at the school over the past year. A to felling of large Ash, with PC NO OBJECTION to number of very positive initiatives have been felling and clearing of Willow trees introduced around issues such as behaviour Ð Tamlyn; use of PC land during construction management and raising expectations, and the works. PC agreed subject to formal agreement response from pupils has been very positive. New uniforms have also reinforced the message of a fresh Ð Little Manor Barn Ð New extension as start at the school. Permitted Development Ð PC NO COMMENT Page 3 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 3 Recreation Ground Ð The Rec is still open for Parish Council Report Parish Council Parish Councillors: by Mark Flewitt, Parish Clerk residents, but everyone is reminded to observe the latest government guidelines, including social Meeting Dates Monday 8th Feb Ð at 7.00 pm Chairman: Sophie Walters Parish Council (PC) Meetings Ð the PC continues distancing, hand sanitising etc. [email protected] 07740 443 460 to run its regular meetings on a virtual basis via Streetlights ÐThe final phase of the replacement of Monday 8th Mar- at 7.00 pm Zoom. All residents are very welcome to join and the streetlights throughout the village is now These meetings will be held as virtual Councillors: view the virtual PC meetings. Information is meetings via Zoom. All residents are welcome David Burnfield, [email protected] complete, following the delivery and installation of to view and contribute provided on the village noticeboards and on the PC the further 9 LED streetlights for Roman Road, 810 529 website. John Eastwood [email protected] Southside Cottages and Houghton Road. 07880 644 977 PC Finance Ð The financial review as at Dec 20 Traffic Speed on the Bunny Ð The PC is working Newsletter editors wanted! Angie Filippa, [email protected] shows that the PC finances are in line with the on the process to reduce the speed limit to 30 mph 07817 576 346 budget projection of a year-end bank balance in Mar The Newsletter editorial team is looking for help Ivan Gibson, [email protected] 810 002 across the whole length of the Bunny. Further with text editing. This is a fun job that helps to 21 of £2.5k, following the final installation of and updates will follow. Charles Grieve, [email protected] payment for the new streetlighting. maintain the village community. 810 580 War Memorial and Benches Ð In view of the Selina Musters, [email protected] The PC has decided to increase the annual Precept We use Microsoft Publisher/Swift Publisher for text grime and dirt that has accumulated on the War editing so a basic level of computer skills is required 810 459 amount collected through TVBC from £8k to £8.5k Memorial and the 3 adjacent benches, the PC will in addition to a bit of time every two months. Clerk Mark Flewitt with a view to gradually rebuilding a stable PC arrange for them to be cleaned. It is important to reserve of £5k. Training, tools and support provided! [email protected] 810 752 maintain and protect this important and iconic space Colin McIntyre, [email protected] The PC has agreed to an approx. 10% increase in the in the heart of our village. Do get in touch with us at advertising rates for the Newsletter. This should [email protected] District Councillors: enable the Newsletter to be self-financing again Census 2021 Ð The 10-yearly National Census is Ian Jeffrey, [email protected] due to be held on 21st March 2021. The PC is 01794 388872 following the introduction of colour pages in 2020. providing assistance in the communication process This Newsletter is published by Longstock Alison Johnston, [email protected] Neighbourhood Plan (NHP) Ð the NHP Steering to our residents. Further information is provided 01794 517939 Parish Council and delivered free to every household in Group are reviewing the Housing Needs Tony Ward, [email protected] elsewhere in this Newsletter. Longstock. Assessment, prepared by consultants AECOM, and 01794 389649 TVBC are helping to analyse the more than 90 Disused Chalkpit on Bottom Road Ð This plot of land is an asset of the PC, and the PC is intending to Anyone else may subscribe at £10 a year by contacting County Councillor: responses received on the Housing Needs Survey. [email protected]. Andrew Gibson, [email protected] More details elsewhere in this Newsletter. consider potential local projects that may be able to provide long-term benefits to the community. 01264 861138 Longstock Parish Council Website ÐThe PC website at www.longstockparishcouncil.co.uk, Freedom of Information Request (FoIR) Ð The includes past and current Parish Council PC has received a FoIR and is dealing with it in documentation and other useful information. accordance with the relevant legislation and guidance. Bottle Bank and Recycling Site Ð We are delighted that the new recycling site has been installed at the Recent Expenditure Leckford Farm Shop site in January. The PC is very SSE - Streetlighting Electricity Supply £106.66 grateful for Leckford Estate’s help and cooperation Sarsen Press Ð newsletter printing £307.64 in making this site available. Utili-Light Ltd Salisbury Hill Pavements and Trees Ð Following - Installation of new streetlights £2,928.00 representations to the PC from parents of children at Test Valley School about the narrow and overgrown IG Ð Cemetery and Playground mowing £500.00 pavements on Salisbury Hill, the verges and Royal British Legion undergrowth have been cut back by HCC. Ð Remembrance Day wreath donation £100.00 Police Update Ð following PC letters to our MP, and GDPR/Data Protection Licence to the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner, annual renewal £35.00 we have received confirmation of significant new recruiting developments at Stockbridge Police Recent Planning Applications Station. 3 new PCs will be in place by end-January Ð Old School House; New building and tree 21, with a further 2 new PCs arriving in March. In works - PC SUPPORT addition, 3 new PCSOs will be arriving by end- April. Ð Vale House; Replace conservatory with extension Ð PC SUPPORT Test Valley School Ð The new Head, Toni Wilden, joined the Dec PC meeting to provide an update on Ð Church Farm; Tree works Ð PC OBJECTION developments at the school over the past year. A to felling of large Ash, with PC NO OBJECTION to number of very positive initiatives have been felling and clearing of Willow trees introduced around issues such as behaviour Ð Tamlyn; use of PC land during construction management and raising expectations, and the works. PC agreed subject to formal agreement response from pupils has been very positive. New uniforms have also reinforced the message of a fresh Ð Little Manor Barn Ð New extension as start at the school. Permitted Development Ð PC NO COMMENT Page 4 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 4 New Headteacher at Test Valley School enable them to pursue their own personal excellence. This new arrangement will provide the School with Mrs Dean’s executive leadership and further stability during which further development management of Test Valley School ended on 31 can occur. December 2020 but I am delighted to inform you that Ms Wilden has become the Head Teacher and I am confident that you will be as delighted as the taken on the leadership and strategic oversight of the Governing Body with this arrangement and will wish School, as well as oversight of operational day to to continue your support of Ms Wilden and her day management to provide direct support to parents colleagues at Test Valley School in maintaining and and children. Mrs Dean has generously offered her developing further the excellent progress that the continued support and expertise as well as the School is making. continued support and mentoring from Westgate Should you require any further information please School to Test Valley School. Mrs Dean’s personal do contact me commitment will be formally recognised through her appointment to the Governing Body as an Sarah Botwright Associate Governor. Mrs Dean and Ms Wilden, Business Manager together with their colleagues, have, despite the Test Valley School constraints of Covid 19, moved Test Valley School to being a school that expects great things of its 01264 810555 pupils and provides the opportunities and support to

March 21st unique. There’s simply nothing else that gives so Is Census Day! much detail about us and the society we live in. All kinds of organisations, from local authorities to charities, use the information to help provide the Did you know? services we all need, including transport, education The first UK Census took place in 1801, the and healthcare. Without the census, it would be England & Wales population was estimated to be 8.9 much more difficult to do this. million. By 2011 it had grown to 56,075,912! By taking part, you’ll be helping make sure you Statistics from the National Census will be used and your community get the services needed now for the next 10 years to help create policy, plan and and in the future. So this year, we are asking you to allocate funding throughout our area and beyond. complete the census and if you can, offer help to The census gives us a picture of all the people and friends and family so we can collect the best data households in England and Wales. The census is possible.

We are on the Test Way, midway between Stockbridge and Romsey in the picturesque village of Horsebridge. We are ideally suited for groups of ramblers or cyclists with a pre booking service available. We are a Free House specialising in ﬁne ales, wines and home-cooked locally-sourced food. Choice of freshly cooked roasts every Sunday. We are open throughout the day from 9.30 am and will not close before 10pm, or later if we Alasdair John Cox have customers. Food served between 9.30 am until 8pm, and later if pre-booked. We have 30 covers inside and 32 seats available in our garden to the rear. Carpentry specialist; garden maintenance; building work inside & out. We are conscious of the Covid regulations providing table service, sanitiser and safe seating. Fully insured, good references. Inside 2 Households can sit together, outside 2 households or a maximum of 6 people from Free quotations; no job too small. multiple households to each table. 2 Manor Farm Cottages, North Houghton We are allowing more than 2 drinks to each customer. 810311 or 07900 621842 HORSEBRIDGE ROAD, HORSEBRIDGE, SO20 6PU Telephone: 01794 388644 Johnofgaunt.co.uk Page 6 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 6 so that all might be saved and pass from death to Churchyard tidy/Church clean completed I can complete the request for payment of Church News life. An email will be sent round regarding a Spring the 2 grants, worth £4,500. One grant worth £1,500 By dying you unlocked the gates of life for all Clean, as and when we can. was paid up front, which was most helpful. those who believe in you. If you would still like to make a contribution - (for So we trust that Mary is with You believing that, Wall Update the wall or church running costs) Cheques should be made out to ‘PCC Longstock’ and sent to me, the Maddie Hedley writes with sins forgiven, The actual wall was completed The Crib Service on 20 December went really she will share a place of happiness, light and mid December, but we have had Treasurer, 1 Chattis Hill Stables, Stockbridge, well Ð the church had the maximum we could fit in peace to wait until the new coping SO20 6JS. and although everyone missed the fun of seeing the in the kingdom of your glory forever. Amen stones were finished and The alternative is to make a direct bank transfer children bring down the occupants of the crib, we (BACS) to: Mary’s ashes were interred alongside her husband ‘seasoned’ to complete the managed to say a couple of carols and then hum to 2 rebuilding. These are now at the Lloyds Bank: Sort Code 30-90-21 carols sung by the very small choir. Hearing the at Longstock Cemetery on 4 December. Many came and stood in the roadside saying their final farewells. churchyard and waiting for Colin Account No 00265278 sung carols was delightful! The crib had been Avery to return and ‘top off’ the prepared and the church was decorated with Joan Amey: Another long term resident, Joan wall. Christmas flowers Ð thanks to Boo and her team. The Amey also died late October, after some weeks in If anyone has any questions, please let me know hospital. There was a private cremation service. We have received sufficient funding from Christmas tree had been decorated thanks to Rik and community contributions, grants and from Friends of (810284) or email [email protected]. Sarah. Nancy Savage: We also remember Nancy, who died in November, with love and gratitude. St Mary to cover the costs. The PCC is most grateful If you would like a word with the vicar, The service on Christmas Day was a little quieter for the very generous response. I am hoping that or be put on the mailing list, please contact February Ð So here we are again in lockdown. with 27 people coming to All Age Christmas. Revd there will be a further sum of money towards the Rev’d Philip Bowden Ð 810810 or Bob Green presided and communion was taken by Many people now resuming contacts with friends wall from gift aid repayment. Once the wall is most present. and neighbours via the telephone or email Ð or zoom. email [email protected] On 6 January 2021, one year exactly after In this Benefice we have decided, that although we could maintain worship, as the numbers attending Garry’s sudden death, we were able to inter his ashes Remembrance Sunday Condolences in St Mary’s Churchyard. A very small family were decreasing, it would be better to resume Zoom occasion, with just a few other close friends Services at the time of 10am on a Sunday morning. at Longstock 8th of November 2020 attending. There are other occasional services on Zoom and Philip will publicise these in his ‘Church News’ Mary Saunders: The following prayer was said Three comments following John Musters’ excellent account of our for Mary at the Sunday Service on 1 November, with It is hard to predict when things will improve. Ash Act of Remembrance in the last Newsletter. As he wrote, because of the the Pascal Candle lit. Wednesday is 17 February, but I doubt that we will Covid we couldn’t enjoy the generous refreshments normally provided be able to have the usual Ash Wednesday service. God of mercy, Lord of life, you have made us in by the Peat Spade. So people dispersed although a few remained, your image to reflect your truth and light: There may be something on Zoom, so look out for socially distanced, to catch up with one another. This included a pair of shipmates, both Longstockings, emails about this. we give you thanks for Mary, who served together in HMS Invincible during the 1982 Falklands War and who have never met before. March services are likely to be on zoom Ð but if To mark the occasion they spliced the mainbrace, with sincerity. A villager attending our Service for the for the grace and mercy she received from you, things have improved and we are open for services, first time, favourably compared it to others he had attended, particularly citing the inclusiveness and for all that was good in her life and the memories we will be having the usual pattern, which is simplicity which made it more meaningful for him. Finally this was Longstock’s 101st and surely most she leaves. 7 March 9.30am All Age Worship; unique ceremony. The photograph shows the first ceremony. Does anyone recognise themselves or any Especially we thank you for her long life here 14 March 9.30am Parish Communion and other faces? in Longstock, her service to the church as 21 March 9.30am Morning Worship. Captain of the Bell Tower and as Church Warden. Good Friday will be 2 April and depending on She will be much missed as mother, friend and where we are with Coronavirus restrictions, we neighbour. might be able to have a Good Friday Walk (socially Lord Jesus, our Redeemer, you willingly gave distanced) Ð again, look out for emails with yourself up to death, information. Services at St. Mary’s currently take place on zoom The St Mary’s church continues to be open for individuals to go in and pray. There will also be other opportunities for prayer. The wardens and rector will find a way of communicating these. Please ask people to watch out for emails or letters advising them of prayer and worship opportunities. Church Warden: Maddie Hedley on 810284

R C Church of St. Thomas More Behind Rosalind Hill House, Stockbridge High Street Mass usually celebrated at 09.00 each Sunday - Currently please contact Father Mark Hogan, Parish Priest Tel: 01962 852804 Page 8 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 8 Flooding and Ground water in 2021 WI News ...a nudge John Eastwood writes: Although unable to meet in person, Longstock and Leckford WI has been managing plenty of There is a small patch of grass in my garden that alternatives to keep members’ spirits up. becomes a puddle when a flood warning is in place. I am expecting the puddle to appear in the next two During the summer, there was a marquee in the months as there is much concern from the garden of The Mill, and groups of six would meet Environment Agency that the water table is very for tea and chat, with enough space to spread out high for the time of year. October had 289% more safely, but no fun now! rainfall than the average. We keep in regular touch with each other by Ground water rises out of the ground, it does not phone or email, and there is plenty to join in online flow, so it is difficult to deal with. The good news is from Denman, the WI College, or from the that Longstock is not a flooding village, however if Hampshire or National federations, as well as your house is near the water table you should read magazines from both and the national campaigns. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ At Christmas, each member flooding-from-groundwater had a gift bag delivered, which the committee had fun putting which can be found on the Longstock Parish together, and this gave website under the heading "Flooding December enormous pleasure, especially 2020". There are also publications of graphs and the tangerine and walnut long-range weather predictions which will appeal to reminding ladies of their your inner meteorologist. childhood stockings. The national WI website Longstock Phone Box Library (www.thewi.org/media-centre) John Eastwood writes: has lots on it, with many I had expected at the age of 18 to have various non- interesting pieces, showing that executive directorships on reaching the age of 63. the organisation is very far from the sometimes Although this has not happened, the Parish Council fuddy-duddy stereotype in people’s minds, and is has given me the responsibility for the red phone also very much more than a local meeting point, box in Longstock. The outside as Maintenance although that is a big part of it. Officer and the inside as Librarian. One good thing to come from this devastating My first job as the latter was to throw away half the period, is that because more is now virtual, new books. I like throwing away books. There is a sense members have been joining, and even forming new of power when you dispose of "Business in the virtual WIs. Second Millennium". The decision based not on If you’d like to know more, you’ll find our page any knowledge of the contents or usefulness, but on the Hampshire Women’s Institute website, which my subjective prejudice and mood. still optimistically says that we meet every month in Amateur Photography I have persecuted, with Stockbridge Town Hall! This month we do have our apologies to the donor. Who needs a shutter speed speaker, Neil Littleales, zooming to us, to when you have a mobile? The dog eared, anything complement our weekly zoom chats. You can ring written by an author with a surname starting with our president, Sue Hill on 811779, email the letter S or beyond - all history. [email protected], which is Selina Plus others: Sorry Maeve (Binchey), sorry Len Musters, or call Selina on 810459. (Deighton), Nigel Mansell’s biography is no longer, Josceline Dimbleby's (once married to David) Glass Recycling at Longstock Farm Shop "Puddings, and Pies and Gateaux", ex-sponged, excuse the pun. "Canadian Mortgage payments Good news for the conscientious recyclers among Tables" survived the first cull but not the second. I us, there is now a glass recycling bin at the Farm don't want to spoil the ending but the last entry on Shop. the last page is 15,1173. This means that during opening hours, we can "Riders" by Jilly Cooper has been saved. In the stock up on replacement bottles (of Leckford early 80s it was considered quite racy, an eye champagne perhaps, or rapeseed oil?) and local opener on the horsey set, much discussed and a "top mushrooms and flour, among other delicious foods, shelf" publication. It is still on the top shelf, and I or even buy a bare root rose or new fruit tree Ð and suggest you leave it exactly where it is. Socrates all while recycling our empties. There are even a goes to Andover tip definitely. couple of commissioned Leckford Estate tea towel I am looking for one book from each of you to designs! Don’t forget that the Farm Shop is replenish the empty spaces, not quantity but quality. continuing with the delivery service too, if you are If you have one book that you have liked a lot, can not going out at the moment. Ring 810270 to place you write on the inside why it is so good and the an order Ð the staff are very helpful and friendly! date. I will clear a shelf in preparation. Page 9 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 9 Flooding and Ground water in 2021 WI News ...a nudge John Eastwood writes: Although unable to meet in person, Longstock and Leckford WI has been managing plenty of There is a small patch of grass in my garden that alternatives to keep members’ spirits up. becomes a puddle when a flood warning is in place. I am expecting the puddle to appear in the next two During the summer, there was a marquee in the months as there is much concern from the garden of The Mill, and groups of six would meet Environment Agency that the water table is very for tea and chat, with enough space to spread out high for the time of year. October had 289% more safely, but no fun now! rainfall than the average. We keep in regular touch with each other by Ground water rises out of the ground, it does not phone or email, and there is plenty to join in online flow, so it is difficult to deal with. The good news is from Denman, the WI College, or from the that Longstock is not a flooding village, however if Hampshire or National federations, as well as your house is near the water table you should read magazines from both and the national campaigns. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ At Christmas, each member flooding-from-groundwater had a gift bag delivered, which the committee had fun putting which can be found on the Longstock Parish together, and this gave website under the heading "Flooding December enormous pleasure, especially 2020". There are also publications of graphs and the tangerine and walnut long-range weather predictions which will appeal to reminding ladies of their your inner meteorologist. childhood stockings. The national WI website Longstock Phone Box Library (www.thewi.org/media-centre) John Eastwood writes: has lots on it, with many I had expected at the age of 18 to have various non- interesting pieces, showing that executive directorships on reaching the age of 63. the organisation is very far from the sometimes Although this has not happened, the Parish Council fuddy-duddy stereotype in people’s minds, and is has given me the responsibility for the red phone also very much more than a local meeting point, box in Longstock. The outside as Maintenance although that is a big part of it. Officer and the inside as Librarian. One good thing to come from this devastating My first job as the latter was to throw away half the period, is that because more is now virtual, new books. I like throwing away books. There is a sense members have been joining, and even forming new of power when you dispose of "Business in the virtual WIs. Second Millennium". The decision based not on If you’d like to know more, you’ll find our page any knowledge of the contents or usefulness, but on the Hampshire Women’s Institute website, which my subjective prejudice and mood. still optimistically says that we meet every month in Amateur Photography I have persecuted, with Stockbridge Town Hall! This month we do have our apologies to the donor. Who needs a shutter speed speaker, Neil Littleales, zooming to us, to when you have a mobile? The dog eared, anything complement our weekly zoom chats. You can ring written by an author with a surname starting with our president, Sue Hill on 811779, email the letter S or beyond - all history. [email protected], which is Selina Plus others: Sorry Maeve (Binchey), sorry Len Musters, or call Selina on 810459. (Deighton), Nigel Mansell’s biography is no longer, Josceline Dimbleby's (once married to David) Glass Recycling at Longstock Farm Shop "Puddings, and Pies and Gateaux", ex-sponged, excuse the pun. "Canadian Mortgage payments Good news for the conscientious recyclers among Tables" survived the first cull but not the second. I us, there is now a glass recycling bin at the Farm don't want to spoil the ending but the last entry on Shop. the last page is 15,1173. This means that during opening hours, we can "Riders" by Jilly Cooper has been saved. In the stock up on replacement bottles (of Leckford early 80s it was considered quite racy, an eye champagne perhaps, or rapeseed oil?) and local opener on the horsey set, much discussed and a "top mushrooms and flour, among other delicious foods, shelf" publication. It is still on the top shelf, and I or even buy a bare root rose or new fruit tree Ð and suggest you leave it exactly where it is. Socrates all while recycling our empties. There are even a goes to Andover tip definitely. couple of commissioned Leckford Estate tea towel I am looking for one book from each of you to designs! Don’t forget that the Farm Shop is replenish the empty spaces, not quantity but quality. continuing with the delivery service too, if you are If you have one book that you have liked a lot, can not going out at the moment. Ring 810270 to place you write on the inside why it is so good and the an order Ð the staff are very helpful and friendly! date. I will clear a shelf in preparation. Page 10 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 10 Longstock - Our Environment The level of sound is measured in decibels (dB), “In the Middle Ages, houses would be Longstock Ð Your Village, Your Vision By Chris Reynell and sound meters can be bought for under £25 online decorated with greenery for the Christmas By Angie Filippa, Longstock Neighbourhood Plan or downloaded as an App for most mobile phones. season on Christmas Eve day. The feast of Steering Group Noise Pollution Here are some examples of the dB of everyday Christmas started at around 4pm on Every year early on Christmas and Easter activities: Christmas Eve afternoon and continued until A very happy New Year to you all! Although mornings it’s so quiet as there’s no traffic noise, that the Epiphany on 6 January. Christmas may not have been quite what we all constant whine and rumble we hear the rest of the Sound level dB But contrary to popular belief, the Christmas wished for, here’s hoping that the New Year brings year in the daytime. During the March and April 100-110+ Alarm clock, petrol chain saw or season actually continues right through to us a step closer to seeing an end to Covid restrictions Covid 19 lockdown, there were several weeks of strimmer, dog barking Candlemas on 2 February so there's no real and a return to some much-needed normality. quietness. We heard more welcome sounds such as 80-90 Adjacent to a main road, lawn mower, reason why you should take your When we last updated you, the Steering birdsong, the spring calling, the dawn chorus. Some school playground at break time decorations down earlier. could hear the River Test running over the weirs, the Committee (with Test Valley Borough Council) had 70-80 Traffic in the High Street, old tractor, The tradition that it is bad luck to keep just embarked on Housing Needs Survey. First of all, rustle of leaves in a gentle breeze. next door’s chickens decorations up after Twelfth Night and the Traffic noise has been picking up, though. As you Epiphany is a modern invention, although it we’d like to say an enormous thank you to all of you 60-70 Normal conversation, the Bunny who took the time to complete the survey, either on- know, traffic noise volume and tone increase with waterfall, pigs grunting may derive from the medieval notion that speed. At low speeds e.g. Stockbridge High Street decorations left up after Candlemas eve line or by post. We’ve been reliably informed that and the road through Longstock (assuming it’s 50-60 Countryside with birdsong, cattle would become possessed by goblins! I’m of when the survey closed, we had achieved a very limited to 30mph) the sound is from the engine 40-50 Library, bedroom (no heavy metal the opinion that, after the year we’ve all had, healthy 40% response rate which in terms of public exhaust, machinery rattling and rumbling of the music!), hedgehog we certainly deserve to keep the Christmas surveys, is a very respectable figure. tyres. At higher traffic speeds, the predominant cheer going a little longer.” At the moment, your Housing Needs data is being sound is from the tyres and more raucous sounding In general, Longstock is good at keeping noise exhaust pipes. As the volume increases with the low at weekends and evenings, long may it continue. So let’s have some cheerful golden and collated, analysed and amalgamated into a single vehicle speed, cars can sound as loud or even louder colourful decorations into February, every year! report and we are on target to receive the results in than lorries. No wonder it can be “hell” to live close the next week or two. As always, we’ll certainly be to a motorway. The sound can vary due to road Light Pollution of the Sky Longstock Archaeology looking to share the results with you, so please keep surfaces, concrete is normally the noisiest, then “Mummy, what’s that?” “Darling, it’s the stars” Weekend an eye out for our next update in the newsletter. traditional tarmac and a lower noise on porous It is difficult to think of living in an urban area How about the Another on-going element of the Neighbourhood tarmac. where the night sky is just an orange haze. Imagine chance to carry out Plan is the Housing Needs Assessment which has Porous tarmac was originally introduced to allow what it’s like not to see the beauty of the clear night small archaeological been completed independently for us by our technical rapid rainwater drainage through the road surface, sky, the winter and summer constellations, meteors, ‘test pit’ excavations to support consultants, AECOM. reducing spray and collisions when the road surface moon phases and eclipses. find out how the Parish The Housing Needs Assessment differs slightly in is slippery and there is less visibility. There is a good The main culprits obscuring the night sky are has developed over example of this sound absorbing porous tarmac street and flood lighting and outdoor/security hundreds Ð even the fact that it analyses pre-existing data, such as along the A30 where it crosses the county boundary lighting plus fog, mist and air pollution. As well as thousands Ð of years in information from the Office for National Statistics, towards Salisbury, as well as nearly all of the lighting the pavements and roads, the older versions the past? Over one Land Registry and census. We are very pleased to Newbury Bypass (thanks to “Swampy” and strong of streetlights also shone upwards as can be seen on weekend these can be advise that we have just received a first draft of this environmental campaigns). satellite images of the planet at night. Apart from a dug by residents in their document and that as a group, we are ploughing Another means of reducing noise is the use of waste of energy, bright lights are harmful for gardens throughout the through it to complete a review. village, the pits are wooden barriers or earth bund walls, which can wildlife and human sleep cycles. Over the past 30 As the Housing Needs Assessment is a slightly lower the sound by 10dB as the source is out of years modern street lights have tended to shine about 1 yard or metre square and each 10cm or weightier tome, as soon as it receives sign off by us sight, although some sound will spill over the top. It downwards preventing light pollution of the sky. The and it’s formally published by AECOM, we will be will be interesting to find out if the proposed new warm white LED lights in Longstock are a good 4in layer is screened to Stonehenge Tunnel will significantly lower or even example. sieve out artefacts such looking to make it available to you on the Longstock eliminate noise from the A303. as pottery, stone tools, Parish Council website. Once again, we will let you We can all do something to prevent light know when this happens. In the long term, road traffic noise will slowly pollution by adjusting our outdoor lights, especially metal objects and goldcoins. Also soil types can decrease as more sound absorbing road surfacing is security lights, so they shine downwards and are less be noted for each layer. Finally, as always, we are always keen for used, as more electric and hydrogen vehicles are likely to shine into neighbouring homes. The village hall could act as HQ for the residents to join us either as part of the Steering bought and perhaps also as there is better MOT One day let’s hope there will be a “Starry, starry weekend, the recovered artefacts can be dated Group, or just to offer your skills, experience, or compliance of exhaust pipes. night” for all to see. and displayed before returning them to their suggestions on an ad-hoc basis. If you feel that you Garden machinery has also always generated owners. This could be arranged for September would like to know more or perhaps would like to get considerable noise, but more powerful mains electric this year or May next year, do let us know if you involved then please email us at Christmas Lights are interested. and battery mowers, strimmers, hedge cutters and [email protected] chain saws have become available, with the new At ground level at this time of the year, when it’s cold and gloomy, we need warm lighting to keep us charge in batteries lasting about the same as a tank of CALLING ALL LONGSTOCKINGS fuel. Not only less noisy with less vibration, these cheerful. There were some amazing displays this are also easier and cheaper to maintain than petrol or year. Longstock Neighbourhood Planning Committee are creating a short film about diesel models. The other noises we hear in A BBC news item on 5th January this year Longstock, its residents and why we’ve chosen to embark on a Neighbourhood Plan. Longstock are aircraft, farm machinery, church bells, suggested that to bring cheer to the winter months, We would like to include soundbite interviews with Longstockings of all ages to get a people, animals, amplified party music, and we should follow medieval tradition and keep our brief insight into what it means to be a Longstock resident. occasionally fireworks. Most are for short time Christmas decorations up until 2 February. Dr Michael Carter, English Heritage’s Senior Properties If you or someone you know would like to get involved please email us at; periods, usually during the morning and afternoon or [email protected] for special events. Historian, explained: (continued) Page 11 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 11 Longstock - Our Environment The level of sound is measured in decibels (dB), “In the Middle Ages, houses would be Longstock Ð Your Village, Your Vision By Chris Reynell and sound meters can be bought for under £25 online decorated with greenery for the Christmas By Angie Filippa, Longstock Neighbourhood Plan or downloaded as an App for most mobile phones. season on Christmas Eve day. The feast of Steering Group Noise Pollution Here are some examples of the dB of everyday Christmas started at around 4pm on Every year early on Christmas and Easter activities: Christmas Eve afternoon and continued until A very happy New Year to you all! Although mornings it’s so quiet as there’s no traffic noise, that the Epiphany on 6 January. Christmas may not have been quite what we all constant whine and rumble we hear the rest of the Sound level dB But contrary to popular belief, the Christmas wished for, here’s hoping that the New Year brings year in the daytime. During the March and April 100-110+ Alarm clock, petrol chain saw or season actually continues right through to us a step closer to seeing an end to Covid restrictions Covid 19 lockdown, there were several weeks of strimmer, dog barking Candlemas on 2 February so there's no real and a return to some much-needed normality. quietness. We heard more welcome sounds such as 80-90 Adjacent to a main road, lawn mower, reason why you should take your When we last updated you, the Steering birdsong, the spring calling, the dawn chorus. Some school playground at break time decorations down earlier. could hear the River Test running over the weirs, the Committee (with Test Valley Borough Council) had 70-80 Traffic in the High Street, old tractor, The tradition that it is bad luck to keep just embarked on Housing Needs Survey. First of all, rustle of leaves in a gentle breeze. next door’s chickens decorations up after Twelfth Night and the Traffic noise has been picking up, though. As you Epiphany is a modern invention, although it we’d like to say an enormous thank you to all of you 60-70 Normal conversation, the Bunny who took the time to complete the survey, either on- know, traffic noise volume and tone increase with waterfall, pigs grunting may derive from the medieval notion that speed. At low speeds e.g. Stockbridge High Street decorations left up after Candlemas eve line or by post. We’ve been reliably informed that and the road through Longstock (assuming it’s 50-60 Countryside with birdsong, cattle would become possessed by goblins! I’m of when the survey closed, we had achieved a very limited to 30mph) the sound is from the engine 40-50 Library, bedroom (no heavy metal the opinion that, after the year we’ve all had, healthy 40% response rate which in terms of public exhaust, machinery rattling and rumbling of the music!), hedgehog we certainly deserve to keep the Christmas surveys, is a very respectable figure. tyres. At higher traffic speeds, the predominant cheer going a little longer.” At the moment, your Housing Needs data is being sound is from the tyres and more raucous sounding In general, Longstock is good at keeping noise exhaust pipes. As the volume increases with the low at weekends and evenings, long may it continue. So let’s have some cheerful golden and collated, analysed and amalgamated into a single vehicle speed, cars can sound as loud or even louder colourful decorations into February, every year! report and we are on target to receive the results in than lorries. No wonder it can be “hell” to live close the next week or two. As always, we’ll certainly be to a motorway. The sound can vary due to road Light Pollution of the Sky Longstock Archaeology looking to share the results with you, so please keep surfaces, concrete is normally the noisiest, then “Mummy, what’s that?” “Darling, it’s the stars” Weekend an eye out for our next update in the newsletter. traditional tarmac and a lower noise on porous It is difficult to think of living in an urban area How about the Another on-going element of the Neighbourhood tarmac. where the night sky is just an orange haze. Imagine chance to carry out Plan is the Housing Needs Assessment which has Porous tarmac was originally introduced to allow what it’s like not to see the beauty of the clear night small archaeological been completed independently for us by our technical rapid rainwater drainage through the road surface, sky, the winter and summer constellations, meteors, ‘test pit’ excavations to support consultants, AECOM. reducing spray and collisions when the road surface moon phases and eclipses. find out how the Parish The Housing Needs Assessment differs slightly in is slippery and there is less visibility. There is a good The main culprits obscuring the night sky are has developed over example of this sound absorbing porous tarmac street and flood lighting and outdoor/security hundreds Ð even the fact that it analyses pre-existing data, such as along the A30 where it crosses the county boundary lighting plus fog, mist and air pollution. As well as thousands Ð of years in information from the Office for National Statistics, towards Salisbury, as well as nearly all of the lighting the pavements and roads, the older versions the past? Over one Land Registry and census. We are very pleased to Newbury Bypass (thanks to “Swampy” and strong of streetlights also shone upwards as can be seen on weekend these can be advise that we have just received a first draft of this environmental campaigns). satellite images of the planet at night. Apart from a dug by residents in their document and that as a group, we are ploughing Another means of reducing noise is the use of waste of energy, bright lights are harmful for gardens throughout the through it to complete a review. village, the pits are wooden barriers or earth bund walls, which can wildlife and human sleep cycles. Over the past 30 As the Housing Needs Assessment is a slightly lower the sound by 10dB as the source is out of years modern street lights have tended to shine about 1 yard or metre square and each 10cm or weightier tome, as soon as it receives sign off by us sight, although some sound will spill over the top. It downwards preventing light pollution of the sky. The and it’s formally published by AECOM, we will be will be interesting to find out if the proposed new warm white LED lights in Longstock are a good 4in layer is screened to Stonehenge Tunnel will significantly lower or even example. sieve out artefacts such looking to make it available to you on the Longstock eliminate noise from the A303. as pottery, stone tools, Parish Council website. Once again, we will let you We can all do something to prevent light know when this happens. In the long term, road traffic noise will slowly pollution by adjusting our outdoor lights, especially metal objects and goldcoins. Also soil types can decrease as more sound absorbing road surfacing is security lights, so they shine downwards and are less be noted for each layer. Finally, as always, we are always keen for used, as more electric and hydrogen vehicles are likely to shine into neighbouring homes. The village hall could act as HQ for the residents to join us either as part of the Steering bought and perhaps also as there is better MOT One day let’s hope there will be a “Starry, starry weekend, the recovered artefacts can be dated Group, or just to offer your skills, experience, or compliance of exhaust pipes. night” for all to see. and displayed before returning them to their suggestions on an ad-hoc basis. If you feel that you Garden machinery has also always generated owners. This could be arranged for September would like to know more or perhaps would like to get considerable noise, but more powerful mains electric this year or May next year, do let us know if you involved then please email us at Christmas Lights are interested. and battery mowers, strimmers, hedge cutters and [email protected] chain saws have become available, with the new At ground level at this time of the year, when it’s cold and gloomy, we need warm lighting to keep us charge in batteries lasting about the same as a tank of CALLING ALL LONGSTOCKINGS fuel. Not only less noisy with less vibration, these cheerful. There were some amazing displays this are also easier and cheaper to maintain than petrol or year. Longstock Neighbourhood Planning Committee are creating a short film about diesel models. The other noises we hear in A BBC news item on 5th January this year Longstock, its residents and why we’ve chosen to embark on a Neighbourhood Plan. Longstock are aircraft, farm machinery, church bells, suggested that to bring cheer to the winter months, We would like to include soundbite interviews with Longstockings of all ages to get a people, animals, amplified party music, and we should follow medieval tradition and keep our brief insight into what it means to be a Longstock resident. occasionally fireworks. Most are for short time Christmas decorations up until 2 February. Dr Michael Carter, English Heritage’s Senior Properties If you or someone you know would like to get involved please email us at; periods, usually during the morning and afternoon or [email protected] for special events. Historian, explained: (continued) Page 12 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 12 Joe talked more about his life with Brenda, who Goodbye to had died too young – ‘I never expected to be on my Church Farm own for 30 years’, he said. He told me how they’d hoped to have children, and how those hopes were By James McConnachie cruelly taken away. He loved talking about his ‘So you’re the one wartime service Ð how once, at a camp in the north, who’s moved into Ken he’d altered his 24-hour pass from ‘Manchester’ to Bookham’s house?’ ‘Winchester’ and travelled by train all day to see his parents, walking through the night from Winchester This was a fairly typical greeting after we arrived at railway station, stopping for tea in the small hours, Church Farm in September 2014. We had been then walking all the way back again. 75 years on, he advised Ð warned Ð that living in a 500-year-old still resented those American soldiers who didn’t building means living with the past, but I hadn’t stop to give him a lift. expected it to be quite so alive. Many other neighbours became good friends. Any house in any village is part of that village’s Stephen Ellis would turn up with gifts of flowers and history, but Church Farm really is special. I think plants for Alice, which still flourish. Nicholas this is partly because of Ken Bookham’s legendary Tatton-Brown would appear with a couple of trout or reputation, and partly because it sits on the a clump of hollyhocks at the kitchen door, which had crossroads opposite St Mary’s. In the early days I been Church Farm’s principal entrance in the past. (I spent a lot of time working outdoors, digging out love how the old patterns of living still continue, ploughshare points and old tractor batteries (one of whatever remodelling has been perpetrated.) We the many Bookham legacies Ð he farmed there in the talked mostly about gardens. ‘Everything should be old-fashioned way until the late 1980s), uprooting white unless there’s a very good reason’, Nicholas nettles, putting up fences, planting things. There once said, solemnly. I agreed, though admitting, ‘I were always people passing by Ð church-goers, dog- do quite like lavender…’ He grinned. ‘Then that’s a walkers, allotment-holders, neighbours Ð and I very good reason!’ somehow found it easy to put down my tools and chat. In the evening, the setting sun shines directly Losing Nicholas and Joe was one of the things that, down Church Road, pouring over the gate and down in a way, made it possible for us to leave. Alice and I the driveway Ð which I like to believe was the old put down lots of little roots in a relatively short time. route between the hill forts of Danebury and (Literally Ð I planted just over a hundred trees. Some Woolbury, on Stockbridge Down. (Why wouldn’t it friends have asked me if I regret that and, honestly, I be? The kink that takes you down the Bunny past the don’t; the pleasure was in the doing not the having, Peat Spade is strangely indirect.) It is a lovely place and I like thinking of them growing, still.) The to linger, and a perfect one for getting to know your deaths of two friends felt like loosenings of the soil, neighbours. making the uprooting we imposed on ourselves Ð we wanted the children to go to school and have their Church Farm also felt unusually in touch with the teenage years in Winchester Ð somehow more recent past Ð a past in which villages were still full possible. of people who had been born there, who worked on the land, who spoke with true Hampshire accents. I That is why I’ve made this about the people we had the privilege of getting to know my octogenarian met, not the house we lived in. Houses can be special neighbours at 1 and 2 Church Cottages, Joe for this reason or that, for their history or Goddard, and Peter and Sam White. Peter had architecture, their smoke-passage or longitudinal worked on Church Farm as a boy. He showed me form, or whatever. What makes them wonderful where the cows used to be milked, where the orchids places to live is the communities they sit within. And came up in the rough grass in summer; about the cat Longstock, for us, was a fine place in which to spend that fell in the blue paint one day; how the five happy years. We wish the Fulton family every dilapidated old staddle barn was dismantled and happiness there. We’ll miss Church Farm, and we’ll taken away. (You can see it now, restored, at Manor miss Longstock. Farm in Botley.) Would I change anything about Longstock? That’s a risky question! When you depart any place you should leave behind compliments, not complaints. I will mention one thing, though, because I think it could make an extraordinary difference. Longstock has within its boundaries something that is astoundingly rare on a global scale: a chalk stream. There are only 210 in the world, and the Test is the longest and arguably the finest. Longstock’s stretch is looked after by the Leckford Estate river keepers, who save it from all kinds of environmental abuses (and do lots for the village that goes unnoticed, like clearing fallen trees from the roads). Nevertheless, it is still ‘leased out’, in the words of Shakespeare’s John of Gaunt, ‘like to a tenement or pelting farm’ Ð for the exclusive benefit of a few wealthy anglers. The Estate does things for the parish council, I know. It permits an annual parishioners’ walk along the banks Ð which rather painfully reveals what you’re missing on the other 364 days of the year. But imagine it: a footpath for older residents, a picnic spot for families, a place for children to swim. The river should and could be at the heart of the village. Page 13 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 13 Joe talked more about his life with Brenda, who Goodbye to had died too young – ‘I never expected to be on my Church Farm own for 30 years’, he said. He told me how they’d hoped to have children, and how those hopes were By James McConnachie cruelly taken away. He loved talking about his ‘So you’re the one wartime service Ð how once, at a camp in the north, who’s moved into Ken he’d altered his 24-hour pass from ‘Manchester’ to Bookham’s house?’ ‘Winchester’ and travelled by train all day to see his parents, walking through the night from Winchester This was a fairly typical greeting after we arrived at railway station, stopping for tea in the small hours, Church Farm in September 2014. We had been then walking all the way back again. 75 years on, he advised Ð warned Ð that living in a 500-year-old still resented those American soldiers who didn’t building means living with the past, but I hadn’t stop to give him a lift. expected it to be quite so alive. Many other neighbours became good friends. Any house in any village is part of that village’s Stephen Ellis would turn up with gifts of flowers and history, but Church Farm really is special. I think plants for Alice, which still flourish. Nicholas this is partly because of Ken Bookham’s legendary Tatton-Brown would appear with a couple of trout or reputation, and partly because it sits on the a clump of hollyhocks at the kitchen door, which had crossroads opposite St Mary’s. In the early days I been Church Farm’s principal entrance in the past. (I spent a lot of time working outdoors, digging out love how the old patterns of living still continue, ploughshare points and old tractor batteries (one of whatever remodelling has been perpetrated.) We the many Bookham legacies Ð he farmed there in the talked mostly about gardens. ‘Everything should be old-fashioned way until the late 1980s), uprooting white unless there’s a very good reason’, Nicholas nettles, putting up fences, planting things. There once said, solemnly. I agreed, though admitting, ‘I were always people passing by Ð church-goers, dog- do quite like lavender…’ He grinned. ‘Then that’s a walkers, allotment-holders, neighbours Ð and I very good reason!’ somehow found it easy to put down my tools and chat. In the evening, the setting sun shines directly Losing Nicholas and Joe was one of the things that, down Church Road, pouring over the gate and down in a way, made it possible for us to leave. Alice and I the driveway Ð which I like to believe was the old put down lots of little roots in a relatively short time. route between the hill forts of Danebury and (Literally Ð I planted just over a hundred trees. Some Woolbury, on Stockbridge Down. (Why wouldn’t it friends have asked me if I regret that and, honestly, I be? The kink that takes you down the Bunny past the don’t; the pleasure was in the doing not the having, Peat Spade is strangely indirect.) It is a lovely place and I like thinking of them growing, still.) The to linger, and a perfect one for getting to know your deaths of two friends felt like loosenings of the soil, neighbours. making the uprooting we imposed on ourselves Ð we wanted the children to go to school and have their Church Farm also felt unusually in touch with the teenage years in Winchester Ð somehow more recent past Ð a past in which villages were still full possible. of people who had been born there, who worked on the land, who spoke with true Hampshire accents. I That is why I’ve made this about the people we had the privilege of getting to know my octogenarian met, not the house we lived in. Houses can be special neighbours at 1 and 2 Church Cottages, Joe for this reason or that, for their history or Goddard, and Peter and Sam White. Peter had architecture, their smoke-passage or longitudinal worked on Church Farm as a boy. He showed me form, or whatever. What makes them wonderful where the cows used to be milked, where the orchids places to live is the communities they sit within. And came up in the rough grass in summer; about the cat Longstock, for us, was a fine place in which to spend that fell in the blue paint one day; how the five happy years. We wish the Fulton family every dilapidated old staddle barn was dismantled and happiness there. We’ll miss Church Farm, and we’ll taken away. (You can see it now, restored, at Manor miss Longstock. Farm in Botley.) Would I change anything about Longstock? That’s a risky question! When you depart any place you should leave behind compliments, not complaints. I will mention one thing, though, because I think it could make an extraordinary difference. Longstock has within its boundaries something that is astoundingly rare on a global scale: a chalk stream. There are only 210 in the world, and the Test is the longest and arguably the finest. Longstock’s stretch is looked after by the Leckford Estate river keepers, who save it from all kinds of environmental abuses (and do lots for the village that goes unnoticed, like clearing fallen trees from the roads). Nevertheless, it is still ‘leased out’, in the words of Shakespeare’s John of Gaunt, ‘like to a tenement or pelting farm’ Ð for the exclusive benefit of a few wealthy anglers. The Estate does things for the parish council, I know. It permits an annual parishioners’ walk along the banks Ð which rather painfully reveals what you’re missing on the other 364 days of the year. But imagine it: a footpath for older residents, a picnic spot for families, a place for children to swim. The river should and could be at the heart of the village. Page 14 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 14 Longstock villagers who helped with transport, catering, supervising etc. Longstock Over the years, we have made sure that all Tadpoles, members have had the chance to have a ‘first camp’ Mayflies and out in the open, but with maximum security. For ‘Spinoffs’ anxious ones, they camped within 20 feet of Beth By Dane Oliver sleeping on the sofa next to open French doors in our house! All have been able to camp in the New Forest at one of the very good Outdoor Education Centres. From the Tadpole archives Bonfire Night We first went to Wales as a group in 1983, when we From the very first time in 1982, and until 2017, used the oldest HCC mountain centre at Heol Senni. Bonfire Night provided a focus for activities We had two minibus loads with 20 children camping throughout October. For at least three weeks prior to in the grounds, with Dane and Tadpole adults the event, imaginative guy creations were catering from the centre’s kitchen. In subsequent constructed prior to the judging on Bonfire Day. The years, we used the newest HCC centre at Argoed, prize for the winner was to strike the first match to where we were able to include a caving programme. light the towering bonfire! All children had a navigational programme that enabled them to grow in skill from being able to read There have been a number of locations for the a plan and find locations in a garden to being able to fire. Originally, when the old wooden village hall navigate competently by OS map and compass. In was in place we held the Bonfire Night celebrations most years, we were able to canoe and kayak either in the field behind the village hall. This was always a at Calshot or at the Woodmill Centre in real community occasion when, apart from the Southampton. bonfire, we often had quite spectacular fireworks. I Integral to all these activities were the spinoff say this with a little embarrassment. In those early years we had to obtain permission from the PC as the events for parents and supporting adults. These land was their responsibility. I see from the parish included several trips to Wales, where we took long records of 1984 that David Owen, as chair of the PC hikes, went pot-holing and enjoyed many evenings of games and fun. When we reached the top of any had to make a formal apology to committee for the extreme noise caused in the village by the Tadpoles hill on our treks, Chris Reynell would suddenly Bonfire Night celebrations. I had omitted to tell him shout 'Dead Ants', and we would all lie on our backs beforehand that I had a friend who made his own waving our arms and legs in the air! fireworks (licensed) but they were a little more I will finish with a humorous incident that explosive than the usual ones bought over the happened at my expense. At the start of every counter! Obviously, we had to move location when Autumn school term, I would take the older children the new hall was built. up the hill behind our house to bivvy out without a Over the years, David Burnfield has been an tent for one night. On one occasion, we had just got absolute star, always finding a solution and settled when a Landover came over the hill with full providing a field when we were struggling to know headlights on, and a bank of extra lights with figures where to have our fun. Over the past decade, Chris on the back of the vehicle holding guns. I had a and Jane Reynell have been wonderful hosts as we momentary vision of trying to explain to parents how their child had been shot whilst in my charge! I then held massive fires on their field. On one year the fire was so big you could not see Ivan’s old caravan that had a mad few minutes running like an idiot Pancake day in 1983! This year on February 16. was hidden inside the fire! In later years insurance alongside the vehicle whilst leaping to grab a gun to has been difficult to find, so in the end we could not draw attention to the fact that there were young have fireworks as the Mayflies insurance would not people in the bushes. Eventually I managed to grab cover such an event. To get round that, Ian Tranham someone/something and the vehicle came to a halt. I would ignite fireworks as a private operator in an had never heard of “lamping” as they explained what adjacent Burnfield field so that we could all see and they were doing. Luckily, they agreed to go enjoy them! somewhere else! Such is the fun of life in the outdoors! Summer Outdoors Although the summer outdoor programme mainly involved young people, it would be unjust to suggest that 40+ years of outdoor activity could have happened without the support of numerous Page 15 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 15 Longstock villagers who helped with transport, catering, supervising etc. Longstock Over the years, we have made sure that all Tadpoles, members have had the chance to have a ‘first camp’ Mayflies and out in the open, but with maximum security. For ‘Spinoffs’ anxious ones, they camped within 20 feet of Beth By Dane Oliver sleeping on the sofa next to open French doors in our house! All have been able to camp in the New Forest at one of the very good Outdoor Education Centres. From the Tadpole archives Bonfire Night We first went to Wales as a group in 1983, when we From the very first time in 1982, and until 2017, used the oldest HCC mountain centre at Heol Senni. Bonfire Night provided a focus for activities We had two minibus loads with 20 children camping throughout October. For at least three weeks prior to in the grounds, with Dane and Tadpole adults the event, imaginative guy creations were catering from the centre’s kitchen. In subsequent constructed prior to the judging on Bonfire Day. The years, we used the newest HCC centre at Argoed, prize for the winner was to strike the first match to where we were able to include a caving programme. light the towering bonfire! All children had a navigational programme that enabled them to grow in skill from being able to read There have been a number of locations for the a plan and find locations in a garden to being able to fire. Originally, when the old wooden village hall navigate competently by OS map and compass. In was in place we held the Bonfire Night celebrations most years, we were able to canoe and kayak either in the field behind the village hall. This was always a at Calshot or at the Woodmill Centre in real community occasion when, apart from the Southampton. bonfire, we often had quite spectacular fireworks. I Integral to all these activities were the spinoff say this with a little embarrassment. In those early years we had to obtain permission from the PC as the events for parents and supporting adults. These land was their responsibility. I see from the parish included several trips to Wales, where we took long records of 1984 that David Owen, as chair of the PC hikes, went pot-holing and enjoyed many evenings of games and fun. When we reached the top of any had to make a formal apology to committee for the extreme noise caused in the village by the Tadpoles hill on our treks, Chris Reynell would suddenly Bonfire Night celebrations. I had omitted to tell him shout 'Dead Ants', and we would all lie on our backs beforehand that I had a friend who made his own waving our arms and legs in the air! fireworks (licensed) but they were a little more I will finish with a humorous incident that explosive than the usual ones bought over the happened at my expense. At the start of every counter! Obviously, we had to move location when Autumn school term, I would take the older children the new hall was built. up the hill behind our house to bivvy out without a Over the years, David Burnfield has been an tent for one night. On one occasion, we had just got absolute star, always finding a solution and settled when a Landover came over the hill with full providing a field when we were struggling to know headlights on, and a bank of extra lights with figures where to have our fun. Over the past decade, Chris on the back of the vehicle holding guns. I had a and Jane Reynell have been wonderful hosts as we momentary vision of trying to explain to parents how their child had been shot whilst in my charge! I then held massive fires on their field. On one year the fire was so big you could not see Ivan’s old caravan that had a mad few minutes running like an idiot Pancake day in 1983! This year on February 16. was hidden inside the fire! In later years insurance alongside the vehicle whilst leaping to grab a gun to has been difficult to find, so in the end we could not draw attention to the fact that there were young have fireworks as the Mayflies insurance would not people in the bushes. Eventually I managed to grab cover such an event. To get round that, Ian Tranham someone/something and the vehicle came to a halt. I would ignite fireworks as a private operator in an had never heard of “lamping” as they explained what adjacent Burnfield field so that we could all see and they were doing. Luckily, they agreed to go enjoy them! somewhere else! Such is the fun of life in the outdoors! Summer Outdoors Although the summer outdoor programme mainly involved young people, it would be unjust to suggest that 40+ years of outdoor activity could have happened without the support of numerous Page 16 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 16 Allotment & Veg Plot Diary trays under glass and plant them out when things Sadly, they are perhaps one of the most maligned improve. Sow broad beans, peas and mangetout, for February and March and hated of our native birds. But is this really sweet peppers, cauliflowers, carrots, spring onions, The Jay justified? I don’t think so. Yes, they do take young By Micki Nadal celeriac, leeks, onions, early celery and parsnips and (Garrulus glandarius) nestlings and eggs in the breeding season, however start chitting potatoes. February is a difficult month for vegetable By Carrie Ross they too need to raise their own young … it's what growers, an optimistic breed who, having already In March, add turnips, beetroots, sprouts, kohl any parent has to do to ensure survival. Consider rabi, tomatoes, spinach and lettuce to the list and the following and see if you like them a little forgotten last year’s failures are keen to get started Jays are handsome members of the crow family. The include any missed last month. Sprouted sets of better. on this year’s crop. For me, February is a month of Latin name “Garrulus” means noisy and chattering, potatoes can be planted out towards the end of the preparation, clearing beds and covering the first to “Glandarius” means “of acorns”. This neatly They are intelligent birds and research shows they month. Comfrey growers can add a layer of wilted be planted with black plastic or cloches to dry and encapsulates what Jays do each autumn, gathering can successfully store thousands of acorns and then leaves in the bottom of the potato trench as an warm through the soil by up to 3¡C. If it is and storing acorns (as do squirrels) in order to accurately find their caches. One experiment with excellent source of nutrients later in the year. particularly wet, lay down boards to walk on to maintain food supplies through the long cold Jays was undertaken with a series of different Growing bags can be warmed up in a greenhouse or avoid soil compaction. Autumn raspberries should be winters. We are certainly en joying a pretty cold start foods to be stored into various trays (peanuts, shed for a few weeks. cut down to about 1”/2.5cm and mulched. About to 2021, so the bumper acorn crop of last summer raisins, berries etc.) which was achieved “showing 25% of older stems, as well as crossed and weaker Old seed viability can be checked by sowing should be good for survival rates. a level of anticipation never before seen”. There is some on damp kitchen roll, placing in a clear plastic also the ancient Aesop’s Fable about the Jay and stems, can be cut from blackcurrant bushes and Jays are resident in the UK and are found wherever container or jar and leaving in the airing cupboard to the pitcher. After a long hot spell of weather, in a standard apple and pear trees pruned. This is a good there are trees, especially oak, beech and hornbeam see if it germinates. Larger seeds can be tested in a period of drought, a pitcher of water was spotted in time to give fruit bushes and trees an early feed. in mature woodlands and wooded parklands. The glass of water overnight; if the seed floats it’s dead. the garden by a Jay. But he couldn't quite reach Grapevines can also be pruned now, whilst they are oak tree seems to have found a perfect way to get Stored correctly, some varieties can last several down into the pitcher to drink. After careful dormant, and a few rhubarb crowns can be covered acorns not only distributed, but also buried by years. Squash and cucumber seeds should last thought pebbles were dropped in, thus ensuring the for forcing early, tender shoots. helpful squirrels and Jays. There is an estimated around 6 years, brassicas 5 years, lettuce and onions water level rose, allowing the bird to drink. This month is your last chance to plant garlic 170,000 number of breeding pairs. Certainly, I see 4 years, carrots and tomatoes 3 years, parsley and bulbs. In heavy, waterlogged or frozen soil, try Jays frequently when walking my dog on West Well, I’ve used a bit of poetic license, it was peas 2 years and parsnips 1 year. Try to organise a planting bulbs in pots and growing them in an Down. However usually, all I see is a white rump actually a crow in the fable, but Jays are equally regular sowing cycle, to avoid the dreaded gluts later unheated greenhouse or cold frame. They can be and a flash of white on the rounded wing as the bird smart. in the year, and remember, if you are a little late in planted out when the soil is in a better condition. flies away uttering a harsh distinctive call. They are Happy New Year by the way! sowing something, chances are it will catch up. Onion sets, shallots and Jerusalem artichokes can extremely handsome birds with a pinky/brown body, There is still time to prepare runner bean trenches; also be planted out this month, although if the a black moustache, blue and black wing feathers and dig a trench about 60cm/2’ deep and line with weather is bad, try planting onions and shallots in streaky crest feathers. They are about 30cms long vegetable waste and torn up sheets of newspaper, and as the name suggests pretty noisy … it is a covering each layer with soil. This will form a good screech! They have been known to mob a roosting moisture retentive, nutritious base when you plant tawny owl which considerably outweighs the out beans later in the year. mobster! If you have any special gardening tips you would Being omnivores, Jays eat a varied diet of berries, like to pass on to local vegetable gardeners, please nuts from beech, oak and hornbeam trees, beetles, let me know and I’ll include them over the coming worms and insects as well as predating on nests of months. other birds. Nests are built fairly high in trees, often Longstock allotments are a precious and special in the fork of the trunk, and consist of twigs and mud Listed & Historic Damp Proofing part of the village; if you are interested in taking up a for stability with a neat inner lining of grasses and Longstock surgery is closed Properties whole or partial plot, please contact our Chairman hair. 3-5 eggs are laid which hatch in 2 weeks and due to Covid-19, Structural Gareth Evans at [email protected] or on the young fledge in around 3 weeks. Pest Control Waterproofing 07751351507 / Micki Nadal Ð please contact the Winchester surgery [email protected] or 01264 810567 Lime Plastering & Timber Treatment & Repointing Fire Retardant Page 17 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 17 Allotment & Veg Plot Diary trays under glass and plant them out when things Sadly, they are perhaps one of the most maligned improve. Sow broad beans, peas and mangetout, for February and March and hated of our native birds. But is this really sweet peppers, cauliflowers, carrots, spring onions, The Jay justified? I don’t think so. Yes, they do take young By Micki Nadal celeriac, leeks, onions, early celery and parsnips and (Garrulus glandarius) nestlings and eggs in the breeding season, however start chitting potatoes. February is a difficult month for vegetable By Carrie Ross they too need to raise their own young … it's what growers, an optimistic breed who, having already In March, add turnips, beetroots, sprouts, kohl any parent has to do to ensure survival. Consider rabi, tomatoes, spinach and lettuce to the list and the following and see if you like them a little forgotten last year’s failures are keen to get started Jays are handsome members of the crow family. The include any missed last month. Sprouted sets of better. on this year’s crop. For me, February is a month of Latin name “Garrulus” means noisy and chattering, potatoes can be planted out towards the end of the preparation, clearing beds and covering the first to “Glandarius” means “of acorns”. This neatly They are intelligent birds and research shows they month. Comfrey growers can add a layer of wilted be planted with black plastic or cloches to dry and encapsulates what Jays do each autumn, gathering can successfully store thousands of acorns and then leaves in the bottom of the potato trench as an warm through the soil by up to 3¡C. If it is and storing acorns (as do squirrels) in order to accurately find their caches. One experiment with excellent source of nutrients later in the year. particularly wet, lay down boards to walk on to maintain food supplies through the long cold Jays was undertaken with a series of different Growing bags can be warmed up in a greenhouse or avoid soil compaction. Autumn raspberries should be winters. We are certainly en joying a pretty cold start foods to be stored into various trays (peanuts, shed for a few weeks. cut down to about 1”/2.5cm and mulched. About to 2021, so the bumper acorn crop of last summer raisins, berries etc.) which was achieved “showing 25% of older stems, as well as crossed and weaker Old seed viability can be checked by sowing should be good for survival rates. a level of anticipation never before seen”. There is some on damp kitchen roll, placing in a clear plastic also the ancient Aesop’s Fable about the Jay and stems, can be cut from blackcurrant bushes and Jays are resident in the UK and are found wherever container or jar and leaving in the airing cupboard to the pitcher. After a long hot spell of weather, in a standard apple and pear trees pruned. This is a good there are trees, especially oak, beech and hornbeam see if it germinates. Larger seeds can be tested in a period of drought, a pitcher of water was spotted in time to give fruit bushes and trees an early feed. in mature woodlands and wooded parklands. The glass of water overnight; if the seed floats it’s dead. the garden by a Jay. But he couldn't quite reach Grapevines can also be pruned now, whilst they are oak tree seems to have found a perfect way to get Stored correctly, some varieties can last several down into the pitcher to drink. After careful dormant, and a few rhubarb crowns can be covered acorns not only distributed, but also buried by years. Squash and cucumber seeds should last thought pebbles were dropped in, thus ensuring the for forcing early, tender shoots. helpful squirrels and Jays. There is an estimated around 6 years, brassicas 5 years, lettuce and onions water level rose, allowing the bird to drink. This month is your last chance to plant garlic 170,000 number of breeding pairs. Certainly, I see 4 years, carrots and tomatoes 3 years, parsley and bulbs. In heavy, waterlogged or frozen soil, try Jays frequently when walking my dog on West Well, I’ve used a bit of poetic license, it was peas 2 years and parsnips 1 year. Try to organise a planting bulbs in pots and growing them in an Down. However usually, all I see is a white rump actually a crow in the fable, but Jays are equally regular sowing cycle, to avoid the dreaded gluts later unheated greenhouse or cold frame. They can be and a flash of white on the rounded wing as the bird smart. in the year, and remember, if you are a little late in planted out when the soil is in a better condition. flies away uttering a harsh distinctive call. They are Happy New Year by the way! sowing something, chances are it will catch up. Onion sets, shallots and Jerusalem artichokes can extremely handsome birds with a pinky/brown body, There is still time to prepare runner bean trenches; also be planted out this month, although if the a black moustache, blue and black wing feathers and dig a trench about 60cm/2’ deep and line with weather is bad, try planting onions and shallots in streaky crest feathers. They are about 30cms long vegetable waste and torn up sheets of newspaper, and as the name suggests pretty noisy … it is a covering each layer with soil. This will form a good screech! They have been known to mob a roosting moisture retentive, nutritious base when you plant tawny owl which considerably outweighs the out beans later in the year. mobster! If you have any special gardening tips you would Being omnivores, Jays eat a varied diet of berries, like to pass on to local vegetable gardeners, please nuts from beech, oak and hornbeam trees, beetles, let me know and I’ll include them over the coming worms and insects as well as predating on nests of months. other birds. Nests are built fairly high in trees, often Longstock allotments are a precious and special in the fork of the trunk, and consist of twigs and mud Listed & Historic Damp Proofing part of the village; if you are interested in taking up a for stability with a neat inner lining of grasses and Longstock surgery is closed Properties whole or partial plot, please contact our Chairman hair. 3-5 eggs are laid which hatch in 2 weeks and due to Covid-19, Structural Gareth Evans at [email protected] or on the young fledge in around 3 weeks. Pest Control Waterproofing 07751351507 / Micki Nadal Ð please contact the Winchester surgery [email protected] or 01264 810567 Lime Plastering & Timber Treatment & Repointing Fire Retardant Page 18 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 18 Welcome to Longstock! As we start the New Year, we are delighted that several new families have come to live in Longstock and we offer them a heartfelt ‘Welcome’. Owyn and Olivia Reeves moved in to no 29 just before Christmas, with their dog Jasper, and are expecting their first child in May. Alison and Charles Fulton moved into Church Farm with their four children, Philip, 23, Toby, 19, Tristan 16 and Frances who is 14. Nick and Tanya Heston are now living at Hazelwood with their children Solomon and Oscar aged 5 and 6 years. Finally, James Smallwood and his wife Alison Frater have moved into the Old School House. Both James and Alison have lived and worked in and around Hampshire for many years and decided that Longstock was the perfect place to settle and be near their family. How right they are and we wish them all every happiness here! With other news of village moves, Sophie Walters has moved down the road so she can continue to make sure everything in the village runs smoothly! Although we are a bit slow off the mark, we’d like to congratulate Gareth and Carolyn Evans, whose granddaughter Fern Elizabeth was born to Kate and Scott Evans-Brahim on August 12th last year.

Broccoli, Ginger & Coconut Soup Fresh ground black pepper by Anne Roberts Lime wedges to serve (optional)

A speedy, filling soup which can be made and Fry the garlic, ginger, chilli and salt in the served in 15 minutes. coconut oil in a saucepan for a couple of minutes to release their flavour. Add the broccoli stalk Serves 4 and coriander, stir through. After 5 minutes add the florets. Pour in the can of coconut milk, then 1 garlic clove, roughly chopped fill the can with warm water and add this to the 1 heaped tablespoon finely chopped ginger pan. Cover and bring to the boil, reduce the heat (15g 1/2oz knob) simmer gently for 5-7 minutes or until the ¼ - ½ red chilli, finely chopped plus thin slices broccoli stalks are tender. for garnish Deep fry the peanuts (if using) until lightly 1 teaspoon salt brown and roughly chop. 2 tablespoons coconut oil or ghee 400g/ 14oz broccoli cut into small florets and Remove soup from heat and use a stick blender the stalk thinly sliced or food processor to blend into a smooth consistency. Adjust the seasoning as necessary, 25g/ 1oz coriander leaves and stalks roughly pour into warm bowls and garnish with the chopped, use a few leaves for garnish coriander leaves, peanuts and black pepper or 1x400ml 14fl oz can of coconut milk extra slices of red chilli with the lime wedges 50g 1¾oz unroasted peanuts (optional) alongside for squeezing. Page 19 The Longstock Newsletter Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 Issue No 251 Feb / Mar 2021 The Longstock Newsletter Page 19 Welcome to Longstock! As we start the New Year, we are delighted that several new families have come to live in Longstock and we offer them a heartfelt ‘Welcome’. Owyn and Olivia Reeves moved in to no 29 just before Christmas, with their dog Jasper, and are expecting their first child in May. Alison and Charles Fulton moved into Church Farm with their four children, Philip, 23, Toby, 19, Tristan 16 and Frances who is 14. Nick and Tanya Heston are now living at Hazelwood with their children Solomon and Oscar aged 5 and 6 years. Finally, James Smallwood and his wife Alison Frater have moved into the Old School House. Both James and Alison have lived and worked in and around Hampshire for many years and decided that Longstock was the perfect place to settle and be near their family. How right they are and we wish them all every happiness here! With other news of village moves, Sophie Walters has moved down the road so she can continue to make sure everything in the village runs smoothly! Although we are a bit slow off the mark, we’d like to congratulate Gareth and Carolyn Evans, whose granddaughter Fern Elizabeth was born to Kate and Scott Evans-Brahim on August 12th last year.

Broccoli, Ginger & Coconut Soup Fresh ground black pepper by Anne Roberts Lime wedges to serve (optional)

Thank you to our VILLAGE DIRECTORY in February 2021 deliverers for this issue: Church Warden 810 284 Veronica Ayers Peter Bramley Rev’d Philip Bowden, Rector 810 810 Charles Grieve Canon Paul Townsend (RC) 01962 852 804 Angie Filippa Community Sports Hall TV School 810 555 Geoff Merritt Boo Milne Garden Club 810 794, 810 432 John & Selina Musters Mayflies Youth Club (8-16s)(Liz Howard) Dane and Beth Oliver 07870 612 127 Gary Oliver Neighbour Care Scheme for Nigel Rugman Thank you also to everyone contributing or Stockbridge/Longstock/Houghton 0845 0943 713 checking articles & news. Parish Council Clerk 810 752 Please contact the Parish Clerk, on 810752, or Pilates at Leckford 810 549 e-mail [email protected] if Scouts Stockbridge (Mo Collins) 01256 895 534 you’d like to help with the newsletter in any way, and by Friday 19th March if you’d like to submit Village Hall, Badminton/Bowls 810 459 an article or announcement, give us some news, W.I. 810 603 or place an advert. EMERGENCY or USEFUL CONTACTS DUSTBIN COLLECTION Environment Agency Black Fri 12th, Fri 26th February Incident Hotline 0800 807 060 bins Fri 12th, Fri 26th March Hampshire Fire & Rescue 02380 644 000 February / Brown Fri 5th, Fri 19th February Floodline 0345 988 1188 March 2021 bins Fri 5th, Fri 19th March Southern Electric 105 Southern Water 0330 303 0368 Green bags are collected on Tuesdays of the same week as brown bins. To subscribe please Police non-urgent calls 101 contact TVBC on 368000. Neighbourcare Andover 336 020, 339 899 Foil is collected at Chilbolton’s West Down car Surgery 810 524 park & at Andover Garden Centre. Helpline for Carers (Freephone) 0800 032 3456 Plastic pots are no longer recycled there. Glass recycling. The PC is investigating suitable Hants County Council information 0300 555 1375 sites for a bin in the village. Test Valley Borough Council 368 000 Glass, clothing and foil recycling bins are Citizens’ Advice Bureau 0344 411 1306 avalable at Chilbolton Down car park, and at To call anonymously with information Andover Wyevale Garden Centre. about crime: Crimestoppers 0800 555 111

There is a collecting box for clean TRANSPORT plastic milk bottle tops in the Stagecoach Stockbridge to Winchester church lychgate, and a separate one buses number 68 0345 121 0190 for batteries. Please don’t put either in plastic bags. Batteries can also be Cango buses to Romsey have been replaced with disposed of in supermarkets & should shared taxis to your door .Register on not go in dustbins. 01962 846 786 The batteries (small, not car!) will be taken for Traveline for countrywide travel info safe disposal; and clean plastic milk bottle tops 0871200 2233 with the HDPE symbol will be recycled to raise Dial-a-Ride (Joyrides Stockbridge). Minibus to funds for the Gift of Sight’s research into macular Andover. Register on 356 808 degeneration. NO OTHER TYPES This runs through Longstock on Wednesdays at OF TOPS PLEASE as these are the only 9.30, returning at noon, for £5 return, or £3 for ones accepted now, and PLEASE don’t put bus pass holders. For more information, ring batteries in with bottle tops.The consequences John Musters 810 459 or Dane Oliver 810 are DIRE! 839.

The deadline for newsletter submissions is Friday 19th March if you’d like to submit any news or comment, or offer to help! [email protected]