Spirit of Christmas comes to Fleet

Karen Neville

Fleet

As the Christmas season gets underway, Fleet is preparing to wrap itself up in the magic of the season with three heartwarming events that capture the essence of Christmas

Get ready for the annual Fleet Christmas Festival on Wednesday, 22nd November, from 2pm to 9pm. Organised by a passionate team of volunteers, the festival transforms Fleet into a festive hub, boasting 120 market stalls lining Fleet Road.

From hot and cold culinary delights to unique gifts and decorations, the Christmas Market is a celebration of Christmas and the warmth of community connections. There will also be entertainers and rides as well as a giant snow globe where you can immerse yourself in a magical winter wonderland.

Gurkha Square becomes a stage for the town’s talents, featuring school choirs, community groups and the cast of the year’s pantomime, Dick Whittington. The switching on of the Christmas tree lights at 6.30pm marks a moment of shared joy and anticipation. The square also includes community stalls, celebrating the people who make a difference locally. Father Christmas will be in his grotto in The Harlington which will also host the Harlington Bazaar.

Hart Shopping Centre are hosting the Hart of Craft Christmas market where you can pick a unique or handmade gift, and also enjoy a free glass of wine and mince pie. The Shopping Centre is also host to Autism Friendly Fleet’s Chill Zone offering a quiet space to rest and chill.

Santa’s Post Office: Where wishes take flight

Santa’s Post Office returns to the Hart Shopping Centre, delivered by the Fleet Business Improvement District (BID) and funded by local businesses. This is a charming experience for adults and children alike and children can meet Santa’s elves and write their letters to Santa. It is a true community event with volunteers from Fleet Guides manning the Post Office, raising awareness of the great work they do.

Opening hours:

Wednesday 22nd November, 4pm to 7pm

Saturdays 25th November, 2nd, 9th and 16th December, 10am to 4pm

Sundays 26th November, 3rd, 10th, 17th December, 10am to 4pm

School holidays, Monday 18th – Friday 22nd Dec, 10am to 4pm

Snow Windows: Artistry in every corner

Building on last year’s success, the Fleet Business Improvement District has again commissioned Snow Windows to create unique Christmas artwork in Fleet. Shop windows throughout the town have been transformed into unique pieces of art, each personally designed by renowned artist Tom.

This unique street exhibition showcases the individuality of these local businesses, making a perfect Christmas trail for families to spot the details that make each artwork so special.

For anyone wanting to see the artist at work, Tom from Snow Windows will be decorating the window of 217 Menswear at 217 Fleet Road during the Fleet Christmas Festival on 22nd November.

Tracey Shrimpton, Fleet BID Manager said “Fleet puts on some amazing events throughout the year, and Christmas is a really special time in the town.

“The Fleet Christmas Festival is organised by a dedicated group of volunteers who work so hard every year to organise this event which attracts people from far and wide. Through the contributions of local businesses, the Fleet Business Improvement District is able to provide additional free entertainment including the magical experience of Santa’s Post Office and the awe-inspiring artwork of world-famous Snow Windows.

“We recognise that families may find the pressure to spend money stressful this Christmas and we are delighted that we can offer something very special for families to enjoy that they can do completely free of charge.

“We are so lucky to have such a fabulous range of committed small business owners who open their doors every day to offer customers unique services and products, with local staff to provide help and advice. The High Street is facing many challenges right now and our mission is to support businesses in Fleet with a number of activities to improve the trading environment and this is a great opportunity for people to show their support for local businesses which are the lifeblood of our community.”

Christmas crackers in Surrey & Hampshire

Karen Neville

Fleet

December 25th is hurtling towards us faster than a child can unwrap their presents but there’s plenty to wrap yourself up in before the ‘big day’ with events to enjoy, markets to plunder, food and drink to tuck into and not forgetting Santa to visit…

Are you hanging up your stocking on the wall? Ok, perhaps a bit too soon but in the words of Noddy Holder ‘It’s Christmas’ and there’s so much to do before it’s stocking time.

Christmas wouldn’t be the same without a bit of sparkle so how about starting off the season with a stunning light trail. Follow dazzling displays around RHS Wisley’s iconic sights through Seven Acres, the Rock Garden and Wisteria Walk and marvel at trees and shrubs bathed in a rainbow of light at Glow 2023 until January 2nd. Nearby Windsor Great Park Illuminated is back for its third year with installations featuring artistic projections and floodlit fountains. Go on an adventure surrounded by mythical creatures and dancing fairies. Also until January 2nd. Glow Wild returns at Wakehurst, celebrating its 10th anniversary with a new route and fresh installations. Enchanting winter lanterns and captivating light creations illuminate the gardens. Booking essential for all light trails.

The Christmas trail at Polesden Lacey takes you through familiar fairy tales, complete with a map and book to write your adventure. Ride the traditional gallopers in front of the house and meet elves and a tricky dragon. Booking advised for Santa visit and carousel rides. Enjoy a Nutcracker Christmas at Nymans where you’ll find glittering Christmas trees, colourful decorations, scenes inspired by the classic Christmas tale and giant Nutcracker soldiers. In the house discover ‘The Land of Sweets’ while a garden trail takes families on a voyage through this magical world.

Take a magical journey in to Narnia this Christmas with a visit to Hatchlands Park. In the house, enjoy the warmth and sparkle of a 1940s Christmas before stepping through the wardrobe to discover an enchanting world. Outside, enjoy the family parkland trail inspired by CS Lewis’s beloved story, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

Petworth is every colour of the rainbow with show stopping trees and decorations bringing the house and collections to life. Watch out for mice hiding among the desserts in the historic kitchens! The Makers Market runs on December 2nd and 3rd and if you’re visiting over a weekend be prepared to give your vocal chords some exercise with choirs performing in the courtyard.

Join Uppark House this festive season to discover towering Christmas trees covered with twinkling lights and traditional decorations. The mansion’s enchanting rooms are filled with scents and scenes of the season. From glittering baubles to handmade paper decorations, experience an ‘Upstairs, Downstairs’ Christmas in this Georgian home.

Father Christmas has filled his sleigh with presents, fed all the reindeer, made a list and checked it twice and is getting ready to land at West Horsley Place on selected Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays in December. The house will be decked out with festive decorations and there will be lots to see and do before and after your visit with Father Christmas including biscuit decorating and crafts. Booking essential.

Have a Gilbert White Christmas this December at Gilbert White’s House and Gardens. Starting off on December 2nd with Gilbert White’s Christmas Craft Fair, entry grants you access to the fabulous local craft fair in the barn, plus access to the beautifully decorated house and gardens for a day of traditional Christmas entertainment.

Hop aboard the Santa Express at Denbies for a ride through the vineyards with a special passport from Santa, play the Reindeer game and take home a gift at the end of your ride. Early booking advised. www.denbies.co.uk/fc-events/santa-express

Climb aboard the Rosebud boat and take a gentle cruise along the Basingstoke Canal to the start of the tinsel trail in the woods at Mytchett to find Father Christmas in his grotto and receive a gift. You’ll then cruise back to Basingstoke Canal Centre and head into Santa’s Workshop for Christmas colouring activities, warm drinks and mince pies. Cruises available until December 23rd.

Join Santa aboard the Swingbridge Tranquillity broadbeam boat this Christmas (December 2nd to 21st) for a gentle family cruise along the River Wey. The boat will depart from Millmead Island, Guildford in search of Santa. Look for clues along the towpath as you pass by to find out where he’s hiding.

The animal barn at Chobham Adventure Farm will be magically transformed into The Reindeer Lodge, where Santa’s real reindeer including Rudolph will be staying while they get ready for the big day! Meet the Elves and The Reindeer Keeper and upgrade your ticket to meet Father Christmas where you’ll wander through the snow trail before choosing a gift in his Toy Workshop. Finish the day ice skating.

What better place can there be for a spot of skating than the grounds of Henry VIII’s former home, Hampton Court Palace. Wrap up warm, get together with your friends or family and take in the magnificent views of the beautiful Tudor palace as you glide around on the outdoor ice rink, open until January 7th.

Experience the Christmas story in a unique way as you walk with Mary, Joseph and the donkey on the winding road to Bethlehem with fellow travellers, Roman soldiers and shepherds for The Wintershall Nativity. Enter the stable and watch the miracle unfold bringing the true meaning of Christmas to life for the whole family. December 16th, 17th & 18th. Book at www.wintershall.org.uk/nativity-journey-0

There’s nothing like a bit of sparkle and magic at this time of year and the Watercress Line Steam Illuminations delivers. The incredible light show on and in a steam train is made up of thousands of coloured LED lights and LED wristbands to create a kaleidoscope of different colours and flashing patterns making the steam train look magical both inside and out!

This Christmas, West Green House Gardens in Hook again present their hugely popular light spectacular with giant dancing fountains and a mile-long trail around the illuminated lake, narrating the tale of Alice in Wonderland. The Five Bridges transform into light tunnels with creatures below, and the Paradise Garden becomes the flamingo’s croquet lawn.

Join Marwell Zoo for an immersive light extravaganza that will see the majestic grounds turned into a twinkling wonderland full of fairy lights, magic, and delight with more than 250,000 LED bulbs making up their wonderful illuminations you can marvel at while you can toast marshmallows around cosy firepits.

The Glimmering Gardens return to Chawton House. Enjoy the beautiful decorations in the House and then explore the Gardens as they come to life in twinkling lights and spot the woodland creatures that call Chawton House home from December 16th to New Year’s Day.

Take a Christmas journey to the North Pole at Mottisfont until January 7th and find luxuriously decorated trees, piles of colourfully wrapped presents, extravagant floral displays created by Mother Christmas and Father Christmas’s study piled high with letters. Board the Christmas Express into the North Pole for the polar bear’s ball and become an honorary elf on the family activity trail helping to deliver Christmas wishes.

Experience a Neverland Christmas at Hinton Ampner this winter, with a sprinkle of fairy dust on the Christmas trees. Step into the home of the Darling family and Nana the dog, where light, sound and movement bring scenes inspired by JM Barrie’s much-loved story of Peter Pan to life. Outside, the adventure continues – to the Wendy House, the Mermaids’ Lagoon and Nana’s dog house, where your pooch can pose for pics. A Neverland Christmas which runs until New Year’s Day is presented in partnership with Great Ormond Street Hospital. Booking essential.

The Vyne invites you to follow Clara and the Nutcracker as they fight the evil Mouse King on indoor and outdoor trails. Look out for plucky gingerbread men, pirouetting snowflakes and a bounteous banquet in the Land of Sweets as you explore the opulently decorated ground floor of the house. Enjoy the magical tale through to January 1st.

Step into Santa’s workshop, dress as an elf and look out for the naughty elves hiding throughout Winchester City Mill. Two twinkling trees frame the door and a crafted Christmas tree has garlands full of items found and made in nature through December.

One of the best places to shop for unique gifts is Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market (until December 21st). Recognised as one of the best in Europe, the bustling lively atmosphere, stunning location and high quality products make this a ‘must visit’. Festive lighting, carols and mulled wine abound amid the wooden chalets inspired by a traditional German Christmas market – make sure to visit band shop jewellers, painters, glass makers and textile artists selling one of a kind gifts and decorations.

From traditional to out of this world at Winchester Science Centre which is celebrating a cosmic Christmas as you blast off on a live-action immersive festive space adventure before meeting Santa and taking home a gift.

From the greatest story of them all to some very silly ones with pantos across the county. Catch EastEnder Lucy Benjamin in Cinderella at the Yvonne Arnaud, Guildford; waltz across the stage with Anton du Beke in Peter Pan at Woking New Victoria; Cinderella’s also going to the ball at Camberley Theatre and board the magic carpet with Aladdin at both Theatre Royal Windsor and with Godalming Theatre Group.

Discover Santa’s Magical Gift at the Rhoda McGaw Theatre and meet the Society for Christmas Creatures at Farnham Maltings in the company of surely the only Christmas Lobster!

Justin Fletcher, aka Mr Tumble, has written a new magical family show Santa’s on his Sleigh. Santa is just about to set off on his delivery round on Christmas Eve when he finds his sleigh has broken down, can you help him fix it before it’s too late? You may just recognise Head Elf Justy in this show at G Live, December 16th to 24th, full of singing, laughter and Christmas spirit.

Ready to boo, hiss and cheer – it’s that time of year. Pantos are back and there are plenty to enjoy including those from some of the fine amateur groups who work hard to rehearse and stage stories of slapstick and silliness for your pleasure. Among these are Pumpkin Pantos whose Beauty and the Beast gets an outing at Alton Assembly Rooms (9th and 10th) followed by Forest Community Centre in Bordon the weekend after. Dick Whittington arrives to make his fortune at the Harlington, Fleet while Cinderella is looking for her lost shoe at Theatre Royal Winchester. Over at The Anvil in Basingstoke enjoy The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Hook. Dear Santa is the perfect introduction to theatre for children at The Haymarket where you can meet Santa afterwards. At the other end of the scale, The Phoenix Theatre, Bordon are staging an adult only panto and there’s fun for younger ones with Hansel & Gretel and Red Riding Hood.

Altogether now “I’m walking in the air…”, it must be Christmas if you can hear the sounds of The Snowman. You can join him and Wallace & Gromit who are still wearing the Wrong Trousers in the company of a live orchestra at Guildford Cathedral on 16th.

Shopping to do? Gifts to buy or just treating yourself (nothing wrong with self love) then be sure to visit Ramster Gardens Christmas market the first two weekends in December. Discover a unique collection of locally made gifts including food and drink, beauty products, art and homewares. Buy premium Christmas trees and beautiful wreaths from the Ramster Tea House where you can also enjoy mince pies and mulled wine.

Haslemere’s traditional Christmas market in the town centre offers 200 stalls of gifts and refreshments, you’re sure to find something for even the most difficult recipient here on Sunday 3rd.

There’s A Celebration of Christmas at Holy Trinity Church Guildford on December 6th when you can take part in a night of fun and warmth when the air will be filled with light and music.

Guildford Cathedral is the setting for John Rutter’s Christmas Celebration with a festival of carols and Christmas music for choir, brass, organ and audience on Saturday 9th.

Christmas with a much more relaxed elegant feel is being celebrated at Jane Austen’s House where you can enjoy an evening away from the hustle and bustle (December 2nd and 9th) and step back in time for a magical few hours discovering Christmas traditions and family pastimes with the house all dressed up for the season, complete with warming drinks and the chance to raise a toast to the much-loved author. Take a special Christmas virtual guided tour on 14th and celebrate Jane’s birthday on 16th with a virtual party.

Mulled wine and hot chocolate are on offer at Whitchurch Silk Mill as you celebrate a Victorian Silk Mill Christmas on 2nd and 3rd. The rooms are decorated to recreate the mill’s past with a seasonal make over replete with a table laid with gingerbread figures and figgy pudding – stop by and make a wish.

More nostalgia awaits amid the cobbled streets, seaside pier, teddy bears and vintage vehicles at Milestones Museum in Basingstoke. The period streets will be decorated for the season and the giant Christmas tree will give a warm, festive welcome until 23rd. Children can help Father Christmas find his lost reindeer with the special Reindeer Spotter trail, while the smell of mulled wine and the taste of mince pies will transport adults into the atmosphere of a perfect Christmas! Don’t miss the chance to meet Father Christmas from December 9th to 23rd. Booking essential.

The festive season wouldn’t be the same without glorious uplifting music so let the choirs of Winchester Cathedral entertain you on December 15th with traditional favourites, exciting new pieces and much-loved audience carols to sing along with.

Here’s a different way to mark the season, join the 5k Jingle Jog and run in festive fancy dress around Frimley Green and Frimley Lodge Park to the tune of a thousand jingle bells and if that doesn’t get you in the festive spirit nothing will! Medals, Santa hats, jingle bells (more of them), a mince pie and festive drink are included as part of your entry fee and new this year is the 2k fun run route. Run in aid of Frimley Health Charity’s Golden Christmas Appeal and help give a very special gift this Christmas.

If you’re looking for somewhere to socialise with your family and friends, or to make new friends, then head to the ‘hive of activity in the local community’ – West End Social Club in West End, Woking, (GU24 9PL). Two comfortable bars, regular live music (including Tributes), dancing, many other social and indoor sporting activities, Festivals and Seasonal events. New members and guests welcome, (bookable space for members private events). www.westendsocialclub.co.uk

There’s more to Christmas than just turkey and sometimes a change is good so how about fish from Surrey Seafood Emporium, an independent family-run business recently opened in Downing Street, Farnham, offering the freshest fish caught daily in Cornwall and Devon and brought straight to Surrey. The fantastic pre marinated and ready to cook selection are perfect for both the BBQ or in their oven bags. And if fancy a break from the kitchen, the chef there is busy on a daily basis making artisan fish pies, lobster mac ‘n’ cheese, fish cakes and many more fabulous fish dishes.

Struggling for gift ideas? Triple fff Brewery have a large selection of award winning beers in fun, festive, sustainable packaging – guaranteed to make any beer lover happy. You could also grab T shirts, caps, jackets, hoodies, gilets, glasses, Beer Growlers, subscription offers, brewery tours, bottle openers and gift vouchers!…And if you are having a party, a polypin of Brewery fresh beer is certain to go down a storm! Come and visit us in Four Marks!

Give a gift that shows how much you care this Christmas. A pain relieving muscle rub is the perfect gift for anyone looking to genuinely improve the lives of their loved ones. Soothe this season with a groundbreaking anti-inflammatory gel that got Ian Botham back on his feet. Give the gift of relief, with EthicaCBD Sports Gel, for muscles, joints, and tendons. Visit www.ethicacbd.com

Looking for Christmas gifts that show you care? Bordon-based eco family firm LittleLeaf Organic designs beautiful homeware, gifts and baby wear in the very finest certified organic cotton. Everything is made in a solar-powered Fair Trade factory, so your gifts can be eco as well as luxurious! Proud winners of the 2023 most sustainable UK small business award, www.littleleaforganic.com

 Celebrate at The Shed this November

Karen Neville

Fleet

There’s plenty to celebrate at The Shed this November, with a fireworks bonanza, a cosy comedy club and a Remembrance Day afternoon, plus Saturday Markets and Christmas Wreath workshops

The Shed has a sparkling selection lined up with some real fireworks throughout November with the return of the Cube Comedy Club as well as live music, quiz nights and the ever popular markets.

The venue offers the perfect backdrop for evenings of laughs and fantastic community events.

The Cube Comedy Club, 2nd November, 8pm

We’re back with a bang this November and continue to bring you the best of the best from the UK comedy circuit. This month features Matt Price, Eva Bindeman and Joey Page.

Eva Bindeman is a Bristol based, North East Comic bringing a warm, conversational sense of humour with a twist of the unexpected and named Funny Women “one to watch” in 2022.

Joey Page has been hailed as the future of stand up and is storming the circuit with his trail blazing brand of ‘Indie Comedy’ that’s surreal and inventive and has gained a big following during his time as support act for Noel Fielding on tour.

‘Conversations with Criminals’ podcast host Matt Price interacts with a crowd in a way that makes everyone in the room feel good. Matt’s stories are from the wilder side of life but surprisingly easy to relate to.

Firework Extravaganza, November 4th, 5-9pm

Get ready to light up the night sky with a FREE Firework Display on November 4th, with a night of dazzling lights, delicious treats, and fairground rides.

Head to Parade Square for a spectacular night of jaw-dropping fireworks at Whitehill and Bordon, with gates opening at 5pm and the breath-taking display commencing at 7pm, this event is not to be missed.

There will also be an array of exciting fairground rides for all ages. And when hunger strikes, indulge in mouth-watering meals from a selection of food trucks, offering sizzling burgers, hot dogs, delicious hog roasts, and a variety of sweet treats including donuts, waffles, and crepes.

Remembrance Sunday with Stephanie Bell, November 12th, 12-2pm

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of the 1940s as Stephanie Bell takes the stage gracing us with not one, but two captivating sets of music, each lasting 45 minutes. Absolutely free with no need to book, this is the perfect way to get the family together for an afternoon of remembrance and celebration.

Throughout November there are also the popular Saturday Markets on 11th and 25th November, as well as a Christmas Wreath Workshop at Bud Hut, where guests can learn how to create a stunning moss-based wreath adorned with seasonal natural accessories.

You can find the full line-up of all upcoming events at The Shed here: theshedwb.com/shed-events

Garden Invaders

Round & About

Fleet

There are many plants that can inadvertently take over our gardens, particularly weeds, but there are some beautiful plants on sale that you can wonder why you ever planted. These are my own experiences and everyone will have a different gripe, says R&A gardener Cathie Welch

Houttuynia cordata ‘Chamaeleon’ (pictured)

A beautiful plant often sold for ponds and waterside planting now rampaging in my edible border. It is edible but not very nice. It spreads underground by rhizomes and pops up everywhere gathering momentum after its winter sleep.

Bamboo

This is where it is essential to do your homework. There are bamboos and there are bamboos. Avoid at all costs the running away ones that can colonise gardens and invade those of your neighbours as well as lift up paths, destroy foundations and puncture pond liners. I tend to choose Phylostachys aurea and nigra which are clump forming with beautiful stems but they are quite high maintenance needing to be thinned and trimmed constantly. Occasionally an unwanted shoot pops up but it is important to cut it off. You are in charge of your plants and not vice versa.

Helianthus

Helianthus is the Genus which includes the annual sunflower. There are several perennial varieties that spread indefinitely if you don’t keep them in check. They also spread by underground tubers and as anyone who has grown Jerusalem artichokes on their allotment will know.

Sorbaria

This is a very pretty fern-like spreading shrub colonising the whole of Thursley common and the surrounding gardens. It is readily on sale in garden centres but never plant it in your garden unless you have the room.

Anemone japonica

I mentioned these in my last article and have battled with them in many a small garden. There are tall invasive varieties but also delightful cultivars like ‘Frilly Knickers’ which I can’t grow at all. They need a regular cull so just choose carefully.

Others

There are many other invasive garden plants like Hypericum calycinum which spreads like mad but is great for banks as is Vinca major or periwinkle. There are many Buddleias and Ivies that do not seed and are not invasive. All plants have their right place. Choose your plants and their location carefully and do a little research on your soil type as one person’s thug plant may not even thrive in your garden.

CGS Courses

Please ask for details as I am now meeting potential students for Spring Courses as well as bespoke workshops and volunteering. I can also come and teach you in your own garden and am happy to chat over a coffee at Ashdene.

Consultancy gift vouchers available too.

Website Cathie’s Gardening School: Surrey’s Garden School

Email [email protected]

A new lease of life

Karen Neville

Fleet

Second Hand September, upcycling furniture and repair cafes are all fabulous ways to fall in love again with something you once cherished, not only will it save you money but you’ll be doing your bit to help save the planet too!

How often have you bought something (often on impulse) got it back home only for it to loiter in the back of your wardrobe unworn for years? It’s probably something we’ve all been guilty of at one time, so this month rather than a) buy it at all or b) leave it lurking unloved, why not get involved in Second Hand September?

Find out how to get involved where you live


Education Guide: Winter 2023

Round & About

Fleet

As the new year starts for many it will mean a change in education or time to think about something new, read on for ideas

Click to view the interactive Schools map

Check out more education related articles

Make a splash at school

An initiative launched by The Outdoor Guide Foundation is helping provide Waterproofs and Wellies to state primary schools to allow pupils to enjoy their childhood

As a child, there’s nothing like the simple pleasure of splashing in a puddle. But to do this without being told off and getting too wet, you need the right clothing.

Sadly many children in state primary schools do not have these basic “tools” – Wellington boots, a hooded waterproof jacket and over trousers – to enable them to get out and enjoy this most innocent of pastimes.

However, thanks to The Outdoor Guide Foundation many are now being given this opportunity through the Waterproofs and Wellies Project, the first of what it is hoped will be several similar schemes from the foundation to help disadvantaged children make the most of the natural world around them.

The Outdoor Guide Foundation is the charitable arm of The Outdoor Guide, a free walking tool founded by TV presenter Julia Bradbury and her sister Gina, which aims to make the outdoors more accessible
for all.

Waterproofs and Wellies splashed onto the scene in March 2021 with CBeebies presenter Gemma Hunt launching the initiative alongside Gina. Gemma said: “I am thrilled to be supporting this wonderful initiative and encouraging more children to get outside. The kits provide the basic gear that will allow children to have wonderful outdoor experiences when at school, whatever the weather!”

The goal is to donate 10 sets of wellies and waterproofs to every state primary school in the UK – a whopping 20,000 – to make the outdoors more accessible for all, allowing youngsters to experience, understand and protect nature. The pandemic and subsequent lockdowns proved the benefits of being able to get outside: educational, social interaction and empathy, enhancing wellbeing, reduction in anger, stress and anxiety, improved physical fitness and community engagement.

The Children’s Society says spending time outdoors and in nature enhances a young person’s short and long-term wellbeing. It is also known to improve mental development and personal fulfilment, all of which is endorsed by Mind, advocates of the health benefits of outdoor activities in all age ranges including a reduction in anger, stress, anxiety and an increase in physical fitness as well as a sense of balance and personal awareness.

Waterproofs and Wellies is the result of working with reputable suppliers to source the best value kit with the sale cost for the whole kit just £30. The not-for-profit project donates 10 various-sized kits to a school for them to decide how to distribute at their discretion. Schools and parents can buy extra kits at the same cost.

Julia says: “I am thrilled to be supporting this and encouraging more children to get outside in all weathers! These packs have been sourced as the basic gear that will allow children to have wonderful outdoor experiences, whatever the weather.”

If you can help, please donate at tinyurl.com/mpf62jjv

£30 – will buy and deliver one complete kit to a school

£300 – will buy and deliver 10 complete kits to a school

£1,200 – will buy and deliver 40 complete kits to four schools

£10,000 – will provide kits for schools you choose in a specific area

Teachers, to find out more and nominate your school visit theoutdoorguidefoundation.org/

Get involved

Waterproofs and Wellies are calling on businesses to help support the project too – every business which donates £300 to the initiative will receive a certificate thanking them for their gift for putting something back into the community and will be able to choose which schools they support.

Thanks to the generous donations so far, The Outdoor Guide Foundation has been able to help more than 200 schools since the launch. Businesses interested in getting involved in Waterproof and Wellies should email Gina at [email protected] or call 0203 393 5084.

View the interactive schools map

More education related articles

Learn a new skill with Oxfordshire Adult Learning

2023: The year to learn

New year, new courses

Why choose an independent education?

Applying to University – The Personal Statement

Let us handle your care

Round & About

Fleet

CareHandle is an exciting new service supporting those exploring Care Homes for the first time

If you are over the threshold and paying privately you often explore care options alone which can be daunting and frustrating, especially when you need to focus on you or your loved one’s well-being.

Looking for care can be confusing, stressful and time-consuming, the team at Carehandle are on a mission to change this by offering advice, support and insight in a personal way.

We take care seekers through a 3-step process first to listen, understand and work through possible options. Next, we help Handle the search, find options and provide a free shortlist, we check availability, costs and quality. We are with you every step of the way to support better outcomes, we can book appointments and work with the provider for the best outcomes, a large number of those in care regret the initial decision so we can help to support and get it right first time.

Don’t handle it alone contact Carehandle.

E-mail: [email protected]

Call: 01242 384938

Visit: https://carehandle.co.uk/

Our mission also supports charities and by using our services we can help make a difference in local communities.

Art, design, your garden & you!

Karen Neville

Fleet

Broadlands in Romsey is the setting for The Garden Show from September 30th to October 2nd

The Garden Show is set to bloom again this autumn at Broadlands and although there will be fewer plants than in the spring and summer shows, it is the perfect time for planting trees, shrubs, bulbs, winter flowering plants as well as finding indoor plants to enhance the winter home.

It’s a great opportunity to source new talent, designers and artisans and browse more than 160 stands showcasing the latest specialist plants, garden and home accessories, art, design, sculpture, fashion, toys and a multitude of lovely goodies with tempting foods and wines in the Country Food marquee. There is something at the show that will appeal to everyone. It’s a good chance to do some early Christmas shopping and support the smaller businesses.

Apart from the extensive selection of retail companies there are many other attractions. Expert advice daily from ‘The Environmentalists, Jules & Lance, who apart from helping gardens thrive will be specifically providing the solution to any pruning confusion plus holding a daily Walk & Talk on The Hidden Life of Trees.

There is something at the show that will appeal to everyone. It’s a good chance to do some early Christmas shopping and support the smaller businesses.

On Friday Dr Ian Bedford, entomologist, will be running the Pest Clinic and can identify any bug samples brought along and how to rid your garden of them in as friendly a way as possible and he will discuss Britain’s Nature Recovery Plan. The show welcomes, Ben Cross from Crosslands Nursery who on Sunday will be extolling the British Cut Flower Industry … British Flowers Rock!

It’s not all about gardening: there are plenty of activities on site to keep all the family occupied including The Giant Tombola, a chance to win amazing prizes donated by The Garden Show exhibitors in support of the show’s chosen charity Jane Scarth House https://www.janescarthhouse.co.uk

There are fun times to be had with the children’s entertainer Crazee Hazee, learning circus skills and watching his hilarious Punch and Judy shows.

There will be ongoing artisan demonstrations along with musical entertainment from The Jazz Trio who will be wandering around delighting all with their evocative music of times past … all this and so much more to enjoy … including Huxley Birds of Prey who will thrill spectators as they soar to the skies.

Buy your tickets

Ticket prices on the gate –  adults £10, concessions £8, child £4 (4yrs and under FOC), family £26 (2A & 4C) Pre-book your tickets online 15% discounted!

Peter Rabbit & pals at Blenheim

Round & About

Fleet

Looking for something fun and immersive to do with your little bunnies in a gorgeous setting?

The Peter Rabbit Garden Adventure is the fabulous live immersive experience in the grounds of Blenheim Palace until 3rd September.

We have some happy bunnies here at Round & About who have loved the magical mix of storytelling, live performance, and puppetry.

Developed in association with Frederick Warne & Co, this is the first time Peter Rabbit has appeared in this way, and is also a first for World Heritage Site Blenheim Palace which has allowed unprecedented access for families trying to save Peter Rabbit from ending up in Mr McGregor’s pie.

The Peter Rabbit Garden Adventure is a fabulous live immersive experience in the grounds of Blenheim Palace

This 50-minute immersive adventure celebrates Beatrix Potter’s beloved rabbit who has starred in 250 million books sold since he first appeared at the start of the 20th century. The experience has been created by the team behind Autumn Treasure Hunt with Percy The Park Keeper At Chiswick House & Gardens.

There are also free activities on site and a Peter Rabbit Farm Shop.

Find out more

For more info or to book your trip please visit PeterRabbitGardenAdventure.com & blenheimpalace.com

Marc Antoni’s hair heroes!

Round & About

Fleet

Manager of Fleet salon makes headlines with British Hairdressing Awards nomination

If you are a customer of Marc Antoni in Fleet you know your hair is in good hands – the manager of the Hampshire salon has been shortlisted for a national hairdressing competition.

Now in their 38th year, the HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards 2022, are an annual celebration of excellence, recognising the achievements of stylists from across the country.

Daniel Spiller has reached the finals in the Schwarzkopf Professional Colour Technician of the Year category and now awaits his fate at a black-tie event on November 28th at Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London.

The stylists submitted four photographs each demonstrating the breadth of their hairdressing expertise, showcasing evidence of both technical skill and creative ability. They will now submit a further four images for the final round of judging, which takes place in September.

“This is such a proud moment for us”

Daniel was nominated alongside his fellow Marc Antoni stylist, Paolo Giamettei, senior stylist at the Bracknell salon who is up for Newcomer of the Year.

“This is such a proud moment for us,” said Daniel. “These awards always bring together such exceptional talent and to see our salon and our names alongside those shortlisted is mind-blowing. This is the third time I have finalised in the colour category so it really is an honour.”
Paolo added: ‘We’d love to bring a trophy or two back to Marc Antoni and hope the judges will recognise the love and hard work that has gone into our collections.”

Jayne Lewis-Orr, Executive Director of HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards said: “Every year, HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards serve as a reminder of the passion, artistry and expertise that this incredible industry has to offer, and it is a privilege to celebrate the talent and brilliance of creative individuals from across the country.

Finalists!

“In reaching the finals, Daniel and Paolo have demonstrated excellence in all areas of hairdressing, and an ability to bring together the magical elements that make a photographic collection stand out from the competition.”