v THE HERALD, 2 HIGH STREET, HYTHE, SO45 6AH v No 483 • FREE Every 3 Weeks • 20th November-11th December 2025 Est: 1994 The Your Community Magazine Call for a FREE Quotation 023 8078 3031 www.gasworks.co.uk Visit our showroom at 299 Shirley Road, Shirley, Southampton SO15 3HU Hythe, Waterside & New Forest: 023 8084 0257 Boiler Installation Services & Repairs 0% Finance Available Accredited Installer To book a complimentary Consultation Appointment call 023 8066 8886 www.dentureconfidence.co.uk Steve Martin D.D. (Hons), Dip CDT RCS (Eng) Denturist, Clinical Dental Technician GDC number: 140520 THE COMPLETE DENTURE CENTRE Helping you rediscover your smile • Dentures that look like natural teeth • Denture repairs with On-site laboratory • Expert denture advice • Referral processes for ALL your dental needs • Relaxed atmosphere for anxious patients BEFORE AFTER Established 2004 ANXIETY - PANIC ATTACK? Stay Calm, in Control & Relaxed. Break Free from a Fear or Habit. Regain Confidence & Happiness. Fast & Effective, Lasting Results. Call 07786 376980 E: alan@alanjoneshypnotherapy.com 7 & 9 The Marsh, Hythe SO45 6AJ • 023 8084 4131 • hythe@pearsons.com • Reliable and Efficient Service • Serving Trade, Domestic and Commercial Customers • Three sizes of bags available GRAB BAGS - A CHEAPER FLEXIBLE ALTERNATIVE TO A SKIP Tel: 023 8081 1757 • www.abbeygrabbag.co.uk • Call us for Prompt Delivery of a Bag • Fill Like a Normal Skip • Call again for a swift collection. • We can also collect your own grab bags 15 Marsh Parade, Hythe 023 8084 4741 FRAME SHOP HYTHE PICTURE FRAMING Local Cyclists Raise Over £7K for Samaritans In July 60 local cyclists joined in this year’s Cyclocruze challenge, cycling around the Isle of Wight, raising money for the Samaritans. Cyclocruze riders raised an amazing £7300 for the charity, which was recently presented to Nichola Kirby, Director of Samaritans Southampton and District. Nichola explained that they plan to ring fence some of the money to use for one or more speci c items in their new workspace. Keith Wilson a regular Samaritans volunteer and fellow cyclist was also keen to remind everyone that Samaritans is not only there for those considering suicide, they also provide a listening ear to anyone who needs it. If anyone is interested in joining the ride next year, it is held on the rst full weekend in July. Follow the Cyclocruze Facebook page for details: www.facebook.com/groups/cyclocruze Whatever you’re going through, a Samaritan will face it with you, call: 116 123 for free or visit: www.samaritans.org (Left to right) Paul Uglow (Cyclocruze committee member and cyclist), Keith Wilson (cyclist and Samaritans volunteer) and Nichola Kirby (Director of Samaritans Southampton and District)
Page 2 • The HERALD • 20th November 2025 v SAY YOU SAW IT IN THE HERALD v PICK UP YOUR COPY FROM HYTHE • Age Concern • BeBe’s Café • Bells Furnishing • Beyond the Fringe • The Boathouse • BH Marine • Boots • Cards for all Occasions • CGM Solicitors • Chip N Tails • Citrine Estates • Cornerstone • Crew Barbers • Dancewise Studios • Direct Carpets • Ebenezer’s • Eden Health & Beauty • The Frame Shop • Fred.Olsen Travel Agents • Freedom Boat Club • Fully Woolly • Havencourt • Headquarters • Herald Publishing • Hythe Chiropractic Centre • Hythe & District Social Club • Hythe Community Centre • Hythe & Dibden Parish Council • Hythe Ferry Office • Hythe Hospital • Hythe Kebab Centre • Hythe Library • Hythe Photographic & Electrical • Hythe PO • Hythe & Waterside Lettings • Jane Bidwell Flowers • J R Hardware • KJ’s Mobility • Luis Liu • LW Repairs • The Malt • The Maples • Marchwood Motorways • Master Spares • McColls • Meraki Beauty Salon • Millie’s Tea Rooms • MM Sales & Lettings • Mockingjay • Modern Chinese Takeaway • Oxfam Bookshop • Oyster Financial • C A Parfitt & Son • Paul Jeffreys • Pearsons • Pebbles • Philpotts • Rocco’s • Room 13 • Seadown Vets • Seashells • Shell Garage • St John’s Hall • Tenovus • Toys Ahoy • The Travellers Rest • Visual Cuts • Waitrose • Warings • Waterfront & Solent Surgery • Waterside Furnishings • Waterside Health Centre • Waterside Physiotherapy & Osteopathy Clinic • Waterside Tours DIBDEN PURLIEU & BUTTS ASH • Age UK • Arrosto Di Caffé • Badgers Holt • Benjamin Wells • Coppice Gate • Dibden Purlieu Newsagents • Forestside Dental • Forestside Health Centre • The Glen • The Heath Hotel • Joyners • Netley View Post Office • Sam Long Fruit & Veg • Shawfix • St Andrew’s Church • St Anne’s Community Centre • Tails 2 Fish & Chips DIBDEN & MARCHWOOD • All Saints Church • Applemore College • Berkeley Parks Church Farm • Clayfields Post Office • Horrill Centre • Premier Express • Pococks • The Podium • The Roebuck • Tesco Petrol Station • Waters Edge • Welcome • White Horse BLACKFIELD & LANGLEY • Age Concern • Blackfield Baker • Blackfield Garage Services • Blackfield Newsagents • Compuco • Fawley Royal British Legion • G J’s Plaice • Gang Warily • Harts & Mortons Hair & Beauty • Langley Tavern • Lepe Beach Café • New Forest Bistro • Priest Croft • Tesco • Wendys Café • Zoutorias FAWLEY & ASHLETT • All Saints Church • B’s Garage • Calshot Activities Centre • Charisma • Charles Ley Court • The Falcon • Fawley Garage • Jolly Sailor • Jubilee Hall • Premier Fawley Express/PO • Sundial Cottage Rest Home • Yew Tree Workshop HOLBURY • Boots • Computaplace • Expert Domestics • Eyre & Elliston • Forest Home • HairWorks • Holbury Dry Cleaners • Holbury Fish Bar • Holbury Pets • Holbury Service Station • Holbury Tool Hire • Jasper Vincent Solicitors • ML Convenience Store • Old Mill Inn • PC Buildings Supplies • Travis Perkins • Vibrant Forest Brewery • Walbank Opticians • Waterside Carpets BEAULIEU, BROCKENHURST, EAST BOLDRE, EXBURY & PILLEY • Belle & Blossom • BH Marine • Chapel Store, East Boldre • Drift Inn • Exbury Club • Exbury Gardens Shop • Fairweathers Garden Centre • Pilley Stores • The Royal Oak • Turfcutters Arms, East Boldre TOTTON • AFC Totton • Age Concern • Arrosto Di Caffé • Best One • Calmore Community Centre • Calmore Service Station • Castle Investments • Complete Bathrooms • Debra • Eling Heritage Centre Café • Footner & Ewing • Forest Gate Surgery • Goodies • Graysons Hairdressers • Hairtalk • Hairway Barbers • Hanger Farm • HCC • Images Hairdressers • Jalfrezy • King Rufus • Masons • Maydays • McColls • More Than Hair • The Old Farmhouse • Salmon Leap • Sunnyfields • Sweet Thoughts • Tesco Express • Testwood Arms • Three Score Club • Totton Civic Centre • Totton Community Centre • Totton & Eling Bowls Centre • Totton & Eling Tennis Centre • Totton Library • Water Lane Post Office • West Totton Centre • West Totton Launderette ASHURST, CADNAM, COPYTHORNE, LYNDHURST & NETLEY MARSH ASHURST: Forest Inn • Happy Cheese • Longdown Farm Shop • New Forest Inn, Ashurst • Welcome CADNAM/COPYTHORNE: • Coach & Horses • Co-op • The Empress of Blandings • Le Chateau • White Hart Inn • Woodington Feeds LYNDHURST: Fox & Hounds • Fenwick2 • The Greenwood Tree • Lyndhurst Community Centre • The Lyndhurst Tea House • Lyndhurst Working Mens Club • Mailmans Arms • Peggy May’s Coffee Shop • Waterloo Arms MINSTEAD: Trusty Servant NETLEY MARSH: • Discount Warehouse ROMSEY AREA • Age Concern • Carlo’s Tea Rooms • Co-op, Halterworth • Crosfield Hall • Gilberts Nursery • Home Hardware • Luzborough Inn • Nisa • North Baddesley Community Library • The Phoenix • Ray Meader & Son • Romsey Library • Seafare Two • Teacups Café • The Duke on the Test • Wellow Village Stores SURROUNDING AREA BRAMSHAW/BROOK: The Bell • Bramshaw Village Stores • The Green Dragon • Sir Walter Tyrrell NURSLING: • The Four Horseshoes OWER: • Mortimer Arms Hotel CALL 023 8084 5700 IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BECOME A PICK UP POINT Advertising: 023 8084 0815 Editorial: 023 8084 5700 E: editor@herald-publishing.co.uk W: www.herald-publishing.co.uk Distributed FREE across the area and also available online Brockenhurst
v CALL US: 023 8084 5700 v 20th November 2025 • The HERALD • Page 3 • Fascia and Guttering • Loft Insulation and Boarding • Conservatory Repairs • Glazing • General Maintenance • Conservatory Roof Insulation • Windows and Doors Free Quotation or Advice 0800 014 1404 023 8251 4723 sales@srwservices.co.uk THE FRAME SHOP Prints and Paintings for sale by local artists Mirrors made to order THE FRAME SHOP, 15 MARSH PARADE, PYLEWELL ROAD, HYTHE SO45 6AN PICTURE FRAMING 023 8084 4741 Est: 1987 • ROOFS • PATIOS • GUTTERS • CONSERVATORIES • WINDOWS ✦ Fully Insured ✦ 07960 915741 info@mossbossuk.com www.mossbossuk.com Waterside Carpet Cleaning PROFESSIONAL CARPET CLEANING! Using Prochem Equipment and Materials • SPOT/STAIN TREATMENT • Fully Insured 023 8066 0878 or 07770 337917 www.watersidecarpetcleaning.com Giant Pumpkin Smashes Two Guinness World Records Titles And Ozzy Osborne Tribute Mosaic Scoops A Record Too! Guinness World Records (GWR), celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2025 is delighted to announce three new Guinness World Records titles locally, to the heaviest pumpkin weighing 1,278.8 kg (2,819 lb 4 oz), the largest pumpkin by circumference measuring 649.8 cm (255.8 in; 21 3.8 in) and the largest pumpkin mosaic covering 212 m² (2,281 sq ). For the rst time UK growers have achieved the largest/heaviest pumpkin titles, swooping the title from traditional holders in warmer climates. Twin brothers Ian and Stuart Paton, from Lymington, grew the enormous pumpkin and the Nelson family at Sunny elds Farm achieved their second Guinness World Records title for their pumpkin mosaic in homage to Ozzy Osborne. e Paton twins, Ian and Stuart have been growing giant vegetables for over 50 years and used their wealth of experience and a big dose of perseverance to grow this colossal pumpkin – a ectionately named Muggle! Growing the giant gourds in a greenhouse was a key factor that has enabled them to push ‘Muggle’ to unprecedented proportions and bring the coveted title to the UK! No strangers to growing giant vegetables, the Paton brothers secured the UK 2022 title for the largest British pumpkin and have entered their fantastic vegetables for many years. e Paton brothers said, “We are so proud to bring this record to the UK... sorry Travis.” referring to the American pumpkin grower Travis Gienger who held the title previously with his pumpkin that weighed 1,246.9 kg (2,749 lb) and had a circumference of 642.6 cm (21 1 in). Sunny elds Farm looked a er the Giant pumpkin at their annual Pumpkin Time event, alongside the incredible Pumpkin mosaic of Ozzy Osborne. e Osborne family even paid a visit to the Prince of Darkness homage at the farm and were touched by the pumpkin display. Adam Millward, Managing Editor, Guinness World Records said “Halloween is the season for pumpkin records but it is not very often that GWR gets to witness two at the same time in the same location. Sunnyfields Farm well and truly squash-ed its previous mosaic record with its touching tribute to recently departed rock legend Ozzy Osbourne. While the gargantuan gourd that’s as heavy as a small car grown by Ian and Stuart Paton is proof how sibling synergy and tenacity can pay off in the end; after five decades, the twins have finally earned their place in the global pumpkin-g hall of fame.” Heaviest pumpkin with Ian and Stuart Paton at Sunnyfields Farm (Credit: Guiness World Records) The incredible Pumpkin mosaic of Ozzy Osborne at Sunnyfields Farm (Credit: Guiness World Records)
Page 4 • The HERALD • 20th November 2025 v SEND ALL YOUR LOCAL NEWS TO THE HERALD v • Fascias • Soffits • Guttering • Cladding • Repairs • EPDM Rubber Roofs • Flat Roofing • Moss Removal • Exterior Painting 15% OAP Discount • All Maintenance Work Call 07776 476913 gcgutteringandflatroofing@gmail.com 20 year Guarantee G C GUTTERING & FLAT ROOFING Waterside based Locksmith with over 40 years’ experience within the window and door industry. YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT TRUSTED LOCKSMITH CORGI REGISTERED, NCFE AND CITY & GUILDS QUALIFIED WITH OVER 400 GENUINE LOCAL REVIEWS • NO CALLOUT FEE OR VAT CHARGED • FREE ON-SITE QUOTE/ADVICE • FREE 12 MONTH WARRANTY • HIGH SPEC PARTS FITTED, 1ST CLASS SERVICE & THE LOWEST PRICES TO MATCH! Book us through Checkatrade and get a free £1,000 guarantee If you need a lock think KeyLock Locksmiths • Lost keys • Locked out - Non-destructive entry • Onsite Key Cutting Service • Moving home - New locks & keys required • Door lock adjustments with repair and replacements for all multipoint locking systems • Door realignments/servicing • Hinge repair/adjustments • Broken/misted double glazing units replaced CALL 023 8089 9989 OR 07771 994536 24HRS TO SPEAK TO A LOCAL FULLY QUALIFIED LOCKSMITH PJ-T DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS • Misted Units • Locks • Handles • Hinges • Door Adjustments/Repair • Cat Flaps Paul Jackson-Turner 07708 620910 pjtrepairs65@yahoo.com uPVC & Aluminium Free Quotes Fully Insured LOCAL CHARITY, TOOLS FOR SELF RELIANCE CELEBRATES 45 YEARS OF TRANSFORMING FUTURES Friday 10th October marked a major milestone for Tools for Self Reliance (TFSR), as the local charity celebrated its 45th Anniversary with events bringing together supporters, volunteers, and partners. e occasion was both a celebration of past achievements and a look ahead to an ambitious future. Since its beginnings in 1980, Tools for Self Reliance has evolved from collecting and refurbishing unwanted trade e evening also saw the unveiling of a refreshed logo. Like the previous design, the new logo features a hand – a simple but powerful reminder of human connection at the heart of their work. e updated look represents a natural step forward, carrying forward what matters while re ecting the charity’s growth and future direction. Alongside the logo, a new strapline was introduced – We Build Working Futures – a phrase that speaks directly to the impact of the charity’s projects: helping people gain the skills, and con dence to shape their own livelihoods. CEO Sarah Ingleby said: “This anniversary is a chance to reflect on the thousands of lives that have been changed over the past 45 years, thanks to the generosity of our volunteers, partners, and supporters. But it’s also about the future – we are determined to reach even more people with the opportunities they need to transform their own working futures.” As Tools for Self Reliance looks forward to the next 45 years, the charity extends heartfelt thanks to all those who make its work possible – from volunteers in the UK to partners and trainees across Africa, and of course everyone who has donated in some way. e support helps raise as much as possible for their projects in Africa, as well as UK-based initiatives such as Building Heroes, which supports veterans into new careers. Supporters are invited to continue their involvement by donating, visiting the on-site shop, or simply sharing its story. Every action makes a di erence. Upcoming events: Saturday 22nd November – Christmas Quiz at Colbury Hall, 7pm onwards, booking essential, Saturday 29th November – Tool and Haberdashery Winter Sale, at TFSR in Netley Marsh. For more information on the events or about the charity, email: info@tfsr.org, or call: 023 8086 9697 or visit: www.trsf.org TFSR Team gathered with family and friends to share experiences and showcase the vital work done behind the scenes. e evening saw a second event at Minstead Lodge, attended by founder Glyn Roberts’ family, long-standing supporters, local businesses, councillors, and MPs. e programme included inspiring speeches, the presentation of four Honorary Lifetime Achievement Awards, and the unveiling of a refreshed new logo. Among the award recipients was long-standing volunteer and advocate, Janet Moody, who was named an Honorary Lifetime Ambassador. Speaking at the event, Janet said: “Being part of Tools for Self Reliance is a wonderful privilege. I’ve seen first-hand how a refurbished toolkit or a training opportunity can change someone’s entire future. To receive this award is an honour, but it really belongs to all the volunteers and supporters who make this work possible.” tools to delivering skills training and enterprise development across sub-Saharan Africa. Today, the charity equips people with vocational and business skills, provides high-quality toolkits, and o ers start-up support to graduates and small businesses. is approach enables individuals to build sustainable livelihoods, li ing themselves, their families, and their communities out of poverty. Celebrations took place in two locations. At the charity’s Netley Marsh workshops, volunteers from across the UK TFSR Founder Glynn’s sons Adam and Bjorn with CEO Sarah (Credit: Zacary Colverson)
v SAY YOU SAW IT IN THE HERALD v 20th November 2025 • The HERALD • Page 5 MPL Roofing & Guttering Services • Fascias, Guttering, Soffits, Cladding and much more PVCu work • All roof repairs, gutters, flat roofs, chimney repairs • Moss removal 15% Discount for OAP’s Established 30 years 07920 122984 023 8087 9135 mplroofing@hotmail.com DECORATOR INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING General Small Maintenance Works Reliable, Prompt with a High Standard of Work Fully Insured • Free Estimates NICK CROUCHER 07395 042193 £2500 Raised Towards Life Saving Heart Screening In the 479 issue of e Herald we featured a story about local lady Sue Carter, who along with her partner Gary and son Alex, started raising money for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) in memory of her son Ryan, who passed away at just 25 years of age, to sudden arrhythmia death. Having previously raised over £19,000, on 26th July a heart screening session was held in Totton where 105 youngsters between the ages of 14 and 35 were screened with ECG and Echo tests, at a cost of £10,000. A second screening day is already planned for 18th July 2026. Sue is continuing to raise money for more screening events, in September she held a fundraiser at Empire Hall in Totton, where £2,500 was raised. She was recently nominated for a Pride of Britain Award and made it to the top 4 nalists for the South West Region, with ITV Meridian lming at Sue’s September fundraiser and interviewing her about her fundraising work. “We are very grateful for all the love and support we have received, heart screening is really important - it saves lives.” comments Sue. If anyone would like to support Sue with her fundraising events please call her on: 07811 873280. Andy Clark, Gary Cowper, Sue Clark and Pam Clark To book on to a heart screening event please register using the QR code. If you would like to make a donation to the Ryan Carter Memorial Heart Screening CRY fund please visit: www.c-r-y.org.uk/ryan-carter Steam and Vintage Vehicle Show Raises £10K for Air Ambulance Burley Steam and Vintage Vehicle Show was held on the 27th and 28th September in Burley Park. e weekend raised an amazing £10,000 which was recently donated to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. is was the highest amount raised and donated by the show to date. e organisers of the show would like to thank everyone involved who made this possible and to everybody that attended this year’s show. ey are already looking forward to the next show in 2026. Burley Steam and Vintage Vehicle Show organisers presenting the cheque to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance
Page 6 • The HERALD • 20th November 2025 v PART OF YOUR COMMUNITY FOR OVER 30 YEARS v Waterside Furnishings & Re-Upholstery 023 8020 7895 16 Marsh Parade, Hythe (Opposite Hythe Club) Est 2006 REPAIRS ANTIQUE, MODERN & MARINE REFURBISHED FURNITURE FOR SALE RE-UPHOLSTERY Call Richard on 07554 421544 or 023 8178 8299 PEST CONTROL All aspects of control and treatment undertaken including: Rodents, Insects, Moles, Wasps, Birds and Property Proofing Licensed waste removal of all types of waste Local Friendly Family Run Business • Fully Trained & Insured Kitchen & Bathroom Showroom with free design service Tel: 023 8084 3787 Email: showroom@pcbuildingsupplies.co.uk Web: www.pcbuildingsupplies.co.uk Send your news to The Herald by email: editor@herald-publishing.co.uk Ghoul Times At Hythe Pier And Hythe Pier Museum A spooktastic time was had by several hundreds of children at Hythe Pier and the Hythe Pier Museum during Hythe’s Halloween Treat Trail. Each dressed in costumes of ghouls, ghosts, vampires, zombies and witches visiting both the pier and museum were rewarded with a sweet treat. Hythe Ferry sta , demonic Bob and Kathy the witch, were kept busy throughout the a ernoon with the steady line of excited callers. e same was happening at the Museum where Ann and Derrick were no less busy. As well as the usual Halloween suspects, the Museum was visited by a giant dinosaur and a unicorn. Each took a great interest in the display of Hythe Pier, Train and Ferry exhibits and memorabilia. Children waiting for their treats at the pier (Credit: Alan Titheridge) Children waiting for their treats from Hythe Pier Museum (Credit: John Greenwood) The unicorn and dinosaur enjoying the Hythe Pier Museum (Credit: John Greenwood) Local Bowling Club Raise Over £2K for Air Ambulance During the 2025 bowling season Brockenhurst Bowling Club held several fundraising events in aid of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (H&IOWAA), the charity nominated by this year’s President Pete Drodge. Although a relatively small local lawn bowling club, their generous members have succeeded in raising £2,350 for the charity. At the club’s Presentation Evening in October, President Pete handed over a very “large” cheque to John Wingham, the representative from H&IOWAA. John gave an interesting talk about how the Air Ambulance works and explained how the donation would help them to continue funding the development of their new base at Southampton Airport and to keep their three helicopters and various support vehicles active. He said that although the amount raised may seem like a drop in the ocean when considering how much it costs to put just one helicopter in the air annually, every donation, no matter the size, is vitally important in helping to save lives. Club President Pete Drodge with John Wingham from the H&IOWAA
20th November 2025 • The HERALD • Page 7 Rehau Smarts
Page 8 • The HERALD • 20th November 2025 v SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSES v Services: Oak Framing, Summer Houses, Porches, Car Ports Call us today for a Free No Obligation Quote 023 8198 0182 Opening Hours Monday-Friday 9.30am to 4pm Hello@newforestoak.co.uk www.newforestoak.co.uk Decking, Pitched Roofs, Sleeper Walls, Garages, Fencing, Furniture, Gates, Mantels, Stables and more…… Community Celebrates Sold Out Low Noise Firework Display Fawley Parish Council is delighted to announce the success of its low noise Firework Display, held at Gang Warily Recreation Centre on Sunday 2nd November. e event drew a soldout crowd, who enjoyed a spectacular evening of light, colour, and community spirit — all without the louder bangs traditionally associated with reworks. e display was designed to be more animal-friendly and inclusive. As the rst low noise rework display of its kind in the area, the innovative use of low noise pyrotechnics and choreographed music created a mesmerizing show that lit up the night sky while respecting the needs of the wider community. Chairman of Fawley Parish Council Alan Alvey, said: “We are thrilled with the turnout; the low noise firework display proves that we can celebrate in ways that are both spectacular and considerate. It was wonderful to see so many families and friends come together to enjoy the evening.” e event also featured LED and re performers, food stalls, and familyfriendly activities, making it a true celebration for all ages. Fawley Parish Council would like to thank all staff, vendors and partners who made the event possible, as well as the residents whose support and enthusiasm helped create such a memorable evening. Fawley Parish Council’s next event will take place on Friday 28th November, marking the Council’s inaugural Christmas Light Switch-On at Long Lane in Holbury. ere will be festive Christmas music, the Waterside Christmas Fire Engine, Howley Co ee Co, and much more! e 2026 event schedule is already underway, and they are eagerly looking forward to welcoming you to many more exciting events in the future. You’re invited to the 8th Copythorne Christmas Carol Sing-A-Long on Sunday 21st December, 3pm–5pm at Copythorne Parish Hall. Pull on your nest Christmas jumper… get out your favourite tinsel and fairy lights… and sing your heart out in fun- lled jamboree of the most-loved carols and all time Christmas hits. Raise the roof of the Parish Hall with the Sing For Life Choir. Plus a visit from Santa too! ere will be Mince Pies, Mulled Wine, Tea, Co ee and a Draw. Adults £3, children £1, with proceeds going to the hall. Christmas Carol Sing-A-Long MUSIC IN ROMSEY e next concert in Romsey Abbey will be Romsey Youth Choir’s 15th Anniversary Christmas Concert on Saturday 13th December at 7.30pm. An evening of wonderful Christmas music celebrating the past 15 years of the choirs, including Romsey Youth Choir, Romsey Youth Chamber Choir, Romsey Youth Children’s Choir and Romsey Youth Choir Alumni. Followed on Friday 19th December for Joy to the World with the Romsey Singers, at 7.30pm. Popular carols for choir and audience from the Romsey Singers. Tickets for the above concerts are available in advance from: ticketsource. co.uk/musicinromsey or from Oasis, Church Street in Romsey (01794 512194).
20th November 2025 • The HERALD • Page 9
Page 10 • The HERALD • 20th November 2025
20th November 2025 • The HERALD • Page 11 v SHOP LOCALLY FOR SERVICE & VALUE v NEW FOREST PLUMBING AND MAINTENANCE 24/7 LTD *YOUR LOCAL 24 HOUR EMERGENCY CALL OUT PLUMBER* We provide a wide range of plumbing services, with an established reputation for quality, service and customer satisfaction. www.newforestplumbing.co.uk Contact us on 07912 092557 or 023 8194 0237 newforestplumbing@yahoo.com TOP CHEFS TURN UP THE HEAT FOR CHARITY Head chefs from many of the top hotels in and around the New Forest le their kitchens for a night to cook up a treat for charity at a Chefs’ Night, held in the Brabazon Suite of the National Motor Museum, in support of the Beaulieu based Countryside Education Trust charity. Now in its 28th year, the popular sellout event, again hosted by BBC South’s radio and weather presenter, Sam Fraser, raised over £7,000 for the charity which aims to connect people to the countryside through its residential and day courses for children and adults. A packed audience was treated to an evening of culinary excellence and tips by chefs from e Montagu Arms, Lime Wood, Balmer Lawn, e Pig, Nici Hotels, e Jetty and Hythe based dining caterers, TASTE. Each chef cooked a signature dish which was then auctioned for the winning bidders to enjoy with a matching bottle of wine. A er interval canapés provided by the hotels, the chefs were split into two teams to go head-to-head in a very competitive Ready Steady Cook-o . e audience was also treated to a demonstration of sugar art with a stunning sugar sculpture centrepiece created by Allan Davison-Collier of Brockenhurst College. e evening nished with an auction of fantastic prizes donated by the supporting this event. We would also like to thank this year, the 2nd year students from Solent University’s Creative Department for giving their time to provide the event’s essential audio-visual support”. hotels. e Countryside Education Trust is this year celebrating the 50th anniversary of its establishment by Lord Edward Montagu in 1975. Jane Cooper, Chief Executive of the charity said: “The amount of money raised is an incredible result, reflecting the hard work of everyone involved in putting on the event. The funds raised will help our charity to ensure that children and young people have opportunities to connect with the countryside and to inspire them to understand and cherish these precious places. In this, our 50th year, we believe that this is more important than ever”. Event organiser, Jan Hoy, added “We are, as always, hugely indebted to the hotels and their chefs - and our loyal audience - for their continuing generous support of Chefs’ Night Local Florists Raise Over £1.2K for Macmillan On Friday 10th October the team at Jane Bidwell Flowers held their annual Macmillan Cake Day, raising their highest total to date, with an amazing £1,280.12 donated to Macmillan Cancer Support. e team lled the middle table of the shop with a huge array of mouth-watering sweet and savoury bakes to buy for a donation, as well as holding a ra e and fun games including guess the number of dots on the cake and name the Teddy. Over the years Jane and her team have raised thousands of pounds for Macmillan Cancer Support. Jane comments: “Thank you so much to everyone that came along to support our Cake Day, your generosity has helped us to top our previous Cake Day total by over £200!” The fabulous cake table Join Hythe Library on Wednesday mornings 10am to 12noon to meet and socialise with new friends who are also retired. Feel free to take along existing friends or get to know their regulars and enjoy a free hot drink and maybe even a biscuit. No need to book, they look forward to seeing you there. ‘Chat About’ Social Club
Page 12 • The HERALD • 20th November 2025 v EMAIL YOUR NEWS: editor@herald-publishing.co.uk v DECORATING Interior and Exterior Established 1985 07867 528307 mark.blake.decorating@gmail.com To advertise your business in The Herald, contact Sue on 023 8084 0815 or email: sjones@herald-publishing.co.uk Light Up A Life In Memory Of Loved Ones is year, Oakhaven Hospice is hosting ve Light up a Life services - in Beaulieu and Brockenhurst, as well as Hythe, Totton and Lymington. Whoever you have lost, whenever and wherever it was, you are warmly invited to join together to cherish and celebrate the lives of those who were so precious to us. Oakhaven’s much-loved Light up a Life services are beautiful and upli ing occasions, allowing a moment to pause and re ect before the festive season gets underway. is year, there will be ve Light up a Life services, sponsored by Cinnamon Care Collection’s Hartwood House and Mornington Court: • Monday 1st December, 5.30pm - at Hanger Farm Arts Centre, Totton • Tuesday 9th December, 2pm - at Beaulieu Abbey Church, Beaulieu • Wednesday 10th December, 5.30pm - at St John’s Church, Hythe • Thursday 11th December, 5.30pm - at St Thomas’ Church, Lymington (followed by a procession to light the tree outside Moore Barlow LLP) • Friday 12th December, 5.30pm - at St Saviour’s Church, Brockenhurst Tickets are not required for the events; however, please note that seats will be allocated on a rstcome, rst-served basis. Jill West, Oakhaven’s Community and Events Manager, said, “This year we are pleased to be adding Light up a Life services in Brockenhurst and Beaulieu, following popular demand. Light up a Life provides an important moment of reflection, especially for those who are coming to terms with a loss or experiencing difficult times. You do not have to have lost someone who was cared for at Oakhaven to participate. Oakhaven’s hospice care is provided free of charge, both in the Hospice and in patients’ homes throughout the New Forest, Totton and the Waterside. All funds raised will help to fund Oakhaven’s day-to-day running costs, which last year amounted to £9 million. With only 11% of funding covered by the NHS, Oakhaven relies on kind donations, fundraising, gifts in wills and income from its charity shops and home care provider, Oakhaven Care Ltd, to cover the remaining 89% of costs. We would like to thank Cinnamon Care’s Mornington Court and Hartwood House for supporting this year’s Light up a Life as headline sponsor.” Gemma Ridout-Bowden, General Manager at Mornington Court, said, “At Cinnamon Care Collection we recognise the incredible and compassionate work Oakhaven Hospice does for individuals and families during the most challenging times. We are honoured to support such a remarkable charity and to play a role in these very special events. Light up a Life is a cherished tradition for many and Cinnamon Care Collection is delighted to help ensure its continued impact and reach.” For more information please visit: www.oakhavenhospice.co.uk/light-up-a-life Lymington’s Light up a Life service is followed by a procession down the High Street to light a tree outside Moore Barlow
20th November 2025 • The HERALD • Page 13 WILTON ROYAL BALMORAL 40oz Normally £24.99m2 .........NOW £14.99m2 WILTON ROYAL CHARTER 40oz Normally £31.99m2 .........NOW £14.99m2 WILTON ROYAL WINDSOR 100% WOOL Normally £21.99m2 .........NOW £19.99m2 STAIN FREE WILTON Normally £37.99m2 .........NOW £29.99m2
Page 14 • The HERALD • 20th November 2025 v READ THE HERALD ONLINE: www.herald-publishing.co.uk v Wet clean or Dry clean • Carpets • Rugs • Upholstery • Cushions • Mattresses • Caravans & Motor Homes Contact Chris for a free estimate and advice. We have full liability insurance 023 8104 0185 07770 792361 clean-u-up@hotmail.com We provide one of the best professional Carpet & Fabric cleaning Systems New Forest Scaffolding All aspects of scaffolding undertaken • Extensions • Chimneys • Re-Roofing • New Builds etc For a friendly, local, reliable service and a free quotation Telephone: 07734 476855 www.newforestscaffolding.co.uk Full Liability Insurance Lychette Cottage, Roughdown, Blackfield SO45 1XG • Re-Skimming • Rendering • Coving • Dry Lining • Tacking • Artex Covered • Floor Screeding www.tbrownplastering.co.uk Call: 07919 183989 Friendly • Reliable • Professional • Free Estimates Presentation to Age Concern New Forest by Waterside Quilters Each year Waterside Quilters choose a charity to support, this year they have chosen to support Age Concern New Forest (ACNF). As a result of their 2025 group project the group were able to present two lovely handmade 48” square quilts to the charity. On 12th October they welcomed Carol Marley, Information and Advice Coordinator from the charity to their meeting where she was given the quilts, plus a wall hanging donated by Anne Wellington, one of their members. Carol was very pleased to receive the quilts, thanking the group and saying the charity will look into the best way of using them to raise funds and ‘to do justice to the time and effort the group have put in to producing the works of art’. e quilting group will continue with their fundraising until the end of the year when they will present the charity with the money they have raised. Age Concern New Forest is an independent local charity providing support for older people 55+ years, their families and carers in the New Forest. ey are displaying one of the quilts in their main charity shop in Dibden Purlieu and people are invited to ‘choose a date’ from an annual calendar (365 days) for a minimum donation of £1. e last date to donate will be Thursday 11th December (shop closes at 4pm) the winner will be chosen on Friday 12th December. For more information about Age Concern New Forest visit: www. ageconcernnewforest.org.uk Judy Elson, who put the quilts together, Carol Marley and Wendy Axton the groups committee chair Have Your Say In New Forest National Park Authority Residents’ Survey New Forest residents are invited to give their views about the National Park in an online survey. A previous survey by the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) in 2021 received more than 2,700 responses and 10,000 comments. It helped inform the National Park Partnership Plan of actions for organisations looking a er the New Forest. Many respondents in the last survey said they wanted to live a more sustainable lifestyle. e National Park Authority set up the £1.4m YouCAN youth for climate and nature scheme with partners to drive climate awareness and action through a Climate Action Fund grant from e National Lottery Community Fund. It established a Green Groups Network, a New Forest Awakening Festival, and sustainable living pledge to harness and increase this activity in New Forest communities. People also said they wanted wildlife and nature prioritised, so partners introduced two Public Spaces Protection Orders enabling nes to be issued to reduce the threat of wild res and feeding and petting Commoners’ animals. e NPA secured a £1.3m Species Survival Fund with partners to enhance 250 hectares of land for nature across 25 sites – the equivalent of 350 football pitches. By March 2026 it will have given out over £1 million in grants to farmers, commoners and landowners to support nature recovery and sustainable farming through Defra’s Farming in Protected Landscapes scheme. NPA Communications Manager Hilary Makin said: “Our communities and local organisations are best placed to understand issues on the ground and how to solve them to enable people and nature to thrive in the National Park. New Forest partners have been acting on previous feedback. We’re now encouraging people of all ages to tell us their thoughts and ideas for the future of the National Park.” Have your say at: nfnpasurvey2025. commonplace.is. e survey closes on 30th November.
v THE HERALD - YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE v 20th November 2025 • The HERALD • Page 15 SUNDAY CARVERY IS BACK!! AT THE BOLD FORESTER MARCHWOOD!! ENJOY LUNCH OR DINNER IN THE NEW FOREST BOOKING HIGHLY ADVISABLE! FRESH HOMEMADE FOOD ALL DAY 12 NOON – 9.30PM THE BOLD FORESTER BEAULIEU ROAD MARCHWOOD SO40 4UQ www.theboldforesternewforest.co.uk info@theboldforesternewforest.co.uk PHONE: 023 8017 5588 SUNDAY CARVERY £15.99 BEEF TURKEY GAMMON VEGETARIAN OPTIONS SERVED 12 NOON-9PM NEW!! KIDS MENU £4.99 FRUIT SHOOT MAIN MEAL AND ICE CREAM!! DAILY FANTASTIC NEW FAMILY MENU SERVED ALL DAY EVERY DAY SAME QUALITY FRESH FOOD – NEW LOW PRICES PLUS DAILY SPECIALS CHECK US OUT PW Bathroom Installations Call 07778 345 124 Email: petewilliams21@hotmail.co.uk Design, Supply & Fit High Quality Bathrooms in Southampton and surrounding areas Over 20 years experience Fully Insured - Free Quotation For more pictures of our work visit: @pw_bathroom_installations PW Bathroom Installations Send your news to The Herald by email: editor@herald-publishing.co.uk e Bold Forester at Marchwood, perfectly situated on the edge of the stunning New Forest National Park, is delighted to announce its exciting new chapter. Following a complete makeover, a brand-new team led by Nick Hill is ready to welcome guests old and new to experience a warm, friendly atmosphere and a freshly revitalised menu. Renowned for its welcoming hospitality, e Bold Forester continues to serve homecooked food lovingly prepared on-site by passionate chefs. e refreshed menu focuses on locally sourced ingredients, celebrating the best of Hampshire’s seasonal produce. Guests can enjoy an appealing range of dishes, from hearty pub classics like Liver and Bacon (£12.99) and handcra ed Burgers (from £13.99) to freshly made 12” Pizzas (from £11.99). Families are especially welcome, with a great-value Kids’ Menu including a Fruit Shoot, main course, and ice cream for just £4.99. A highlight of the new o ering is the much-loved Sunday Carvery, now proudly reinstated. Served from 12noon to 9pm, diners can enjoy tender Beef, Turkey, Gammon, plus Vegetarian and Vegan options, accompanied by roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, and seasonal vegetables - all for £15.99. Add-ons such as pigs in blankets, cauli ower cheese, and extra Yorkies make it the perfect Sunday treat. Whether you’re stopping by for a drink, co ee and cake, or a full dining experience, the team promises a relaxing and enjoyable visit. With large tables for families, cosy spots for two, and a welcoming policy for walkers, cyclists, well-behaved dogs, and children, e Bold Forester is your ideal New Forest destination. Go along and discover the new Bold Forester – where great food, friendly faces, and warm hospitality await! All Day – Every Day! The Bold Forester Reopens Following Complete Makeover Scarecrows Raise £1,890 for Charity Over 100 Scarecrows appeared around Hythe for the 2025 Hythe Scarecrow Trail and Festival in September, with this year’s event raising £1890 for charity. e Fire Fighters Charity and Hythe Alive have each received £945. e winning Scarecrows announced during the Scarecrow Festival were: Best Literary Scarecrow, chosen by Meeple Play Cafe: 1st Mr Tickle, 2nd e Explorer. Best Scarecrow by a Business, chosen by Lambertlux: 1st Wessex Cancer Support, 2nd JR Hardware. Public Vote, sponsored by Waterside Mortgages was Peter Rabbit. Best Scarecrow by a Resident, chosen by AJ Gleeson: 1st A day at the races, 2nd Cruella Deville, 3rd Peter Rabbit. Best Animal Scarecrow chosen by the Puurfect Cat Ladies was Peter Rabbit. Best Community Group Scarecrow chosen by Hythe Fire Station was Wildground School. Funniest Scarecrow chosen by Badminstons of Hythe was Melting Olaf. Best Dressed Scarecrow chosen by e Maples Guesthouse was Willy Wonka. New to this year’s festival was a Bake O which was sponsored and judged by Tilleys Bakery. e organisers would like to thank everyone for their support with this year’s Scarecrow Trail and Festival. Peter Rabbit, winner of the Public Vote, Best Animal Scarecrow and 3rd place for Best Scarecrow by a Resident
Page 16 • The HERALD • 20th November 2025 v SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSES v WATERSIDE NETWORK GROUP: MEMBER FOCUS Christmas Dinner Done Right If there’s one meal in the year that just has to be spot on, it’s Christmas dinner. So don’t leave it to chance, or the haphazardness of the supermarket – this year get the very best turkey from Sargents Butchers in Dibden Purlieu. Sargents Butchers’ turkeys are all of exceptional quality, with each one hand prepared with care and attention so you bene t from over forty years of combined experience. e Sargents Butchers’ team are also on hand so you can take advantage of a few tips and tricks; such as how to best cook your bird for the nest results. And what if you fancy something di erent to turkey? Well, Sargents Butchers o er a wide range of other meats to make the big day special, such as lamb, beef, pork, game, and even locally sourced venison, direct from Exbury. And don’t forget the stu ng, stu ng mix, cranberry sauce, pigs in blankets, and a whole host of other sauces and extras to make the day go with a bang. So, make this year’s Christmas dinner one to remember, for all the right reasons (not just Granny having too many sherries). e Christmas order book is now open, so make sure you place your order by the 10th December to avoid disappointment. Sargents Butchers can be found in Merriemeade Parade, Dibden Purlieu, with plenty of free parking outside. Is Your Business Leaking £2,000 Per Month? by David Ward, Business Automation Specialist Most local businesses aren’t struggling with sales - they’re struggling with invisible pro t leaks. Missed calls while you’re working. Duplicated admin eating 12+ hours weekly. Forgotten follow-ups are losing you £500+ jobs. After assessing dozens of local companies, I’ve found the same pattern: service businesses lose £1,500 to £2,500 per month to preventable ine ciencies. e four silent pro t killers: Time drain. 12-15 hours weekly on calls, quotes, and admin. at’s £14,400- £18,000 of your time annually. Missed opportunities. 30-40% of calls go unanswered while you’re working. Each one could be a £500+ job. Costly errors. Wrong quotes, double bookings, missed appointments. Industry average: 2-5% of revenue lost. No-show waste. 15% average no-show rate costs prep time, travel, materials, and blocked calendar slots. Modern automation (AI assistants, smart booking, instant quotes) plugs these leaks without hiring sta . On average, over 3-4 months, a servicebased business can now enjoy reducing to 45-hour weeks instead of 60, and saving £1700/month, just by implementing smart systems. Want to see where your business is losing time and pro t? Book your free 20-minute Discovery Call today. Contact Dave at PFMR on: 07458 255561. PFMR - Profit Through Innovation. David Ward, PFMR Order the very best Christmas Turkey from Sargents Butchers
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20th November 2025 • The HERALD • Page 19 v F @heraldpublishing v ABOUT US Our roofers are the best in the business and are ready to give your roof a full and completely FREE inspection GUTTERS CLEANED AND REPAIRED • FASCIAS • SOFFITS • GUTTERING • ROOF CLEANING • CONSERVATORIES • ROOFS • GUTTER REPAIRS 07946 222820 info@hunterwgc.co.uk www.hunterwgc.co.uk WINTER’S HERE - GET YOUR GUTTERS CLEANED OUT & REPAIRED SP DECORATING Painting & Decorating Specialist Simon Perks Tel: 07889 091420 Email: simonperks@rocketmail.com • Interior & Exteriors • Wallpaper Hanging • Prompt & Reliable Service • Free Quotations & Expert Advice • Fully Insured HANDY HANDS HANDYMAN SERVICES Your Local Handyman For ALL Your Small Jobs • Gutter Clearance & Clearing • PVCu Fascias, Gutters, Soffits & Conservatory Cleaning • Pressure Cleaning of Paths & Patios • Window Cleaning • Interior & Exterior Painting • Grass Cutting, Strimming • Hedge Trimming • Shed Re-treated/ Roofs Re-felted • Flat Pack Assembly Fully Insured Free Estimates Work Guaranteed References on Request T: 023 8084 0096 M: 07840 860202 Send your news to The Herald by email: editor@herald-publishing.co.uk COMMUNITY COME TOGETHER TO HELP LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER When the shop window at NuiBui Outdoors in Dibden Purlieu was smashed recently, the local community rallied around to help business owner Toby Simpson-Silo. On the evening the damage occurred in September, leaders from the 3rd Dibden Purlieu Scout group, based just behind the shop in Whin eld Road, came to help Toby clear up the debris and provided boarding to seal up the broken window, saving him from paying the Police to secure the property. Paulesh and family from Dibden Purlieu Post O ce were also very supportive on the night. e damage couldn’t have come at a worse time for Toby as he was in the process of closing down the shop in Dibden Purlieu. On speaking to his insurance company, it became evident that they would not pay out due to a clause about malicious damage or attempted the , leaving Toby to foot the bill for a new window. Toby has been a longstanding customer of Jerry Still Installations over the years, on hearing about his window damage, Jerry’s son Lewis o ered free labour to t the new window for Toby, which he did in time for Toby to hand back the keys of the shop to the landlady. Lewis Still commented: “My Dad has known Toby for a long time, when we heard about his insurance not paying out, we offered to do the fitting for free, Ashurst & District Ladies Probus are a very friendly group of Ladies and would love to see you. ey meet on the 3rd Thursday of every month at e Happy Cheese, Ashurst at 11am. ey have a speaker every month on a great variety of topics and a erwards most of the members stay for a lunch and general chat. eir next meeting is Thursday 20th November for a talk about Bird Aware Solent. Followed on Thursday 18th December for a talk about Foxlease. ey would love you to go along, it’s a lovely way to spend the morning, with some interesting, informative speakers. If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact Marian Quantrell, Treasurer on: 023 8029 2381 or: 07849 410323. has helped me, to 3rd Dibden Scout Group and Paulesh and family for their support on the night it happened, to Lewis for fitting the window without charge and finally to all my customers for their continued support.” NuiBui Outdoors owner Toby Simpson-Silo with Lewis Still, Jerry Still Installations one business helping another during hard times.” Toby comments: “Thank you to everyone that BIRD AWARE SOLENT If you enjoy dancing, go along to Hythe and Dibden Parish Hall in West Street Hythe on Wednesday afternoons, 1pm–3pm for Ballroom, Latin and Sequence dancing. Admission £5. Refreshments provided. DANCING IN HYTHE
Page 20 • The HERALD • 20th November 2025 v SAY YOU SAW IT IN THE HERALD v Next Level Scaffolding Ash 07702 082961 Next Level Scaffolding Josh 07896 883508 ashcarroll@nextlevel-ltd.co.uk All joinery and carpentry requirements undertaken • Bespoke wooden windows, doors and staircases • PVCu windows and doors fitted • Decking, pergolas and out buildings • Custom made wardrobes and cupboards • Fencing and gates Contact us for advice and quotes Tel 023 8066 8021• Mobile 07467 594993 fillisjoinery@outlook.com Professional quality joinery for over 25 years FLAT ROOFING SPECIALISTS All Roof Repairs Tel: 023 8184 5632 Mobile: 07880 508415 Email: steve@braithwaiteroo ng.co.uk THE FLAT ROOF SPECIALIST SOLENT SKIP HIRE LTD FOR ALL YOUR COMMERCIAL AND DOMESTIC WASTE MINI ~ MIDI ~ MAXI SKIPS ALSO CUBIC YARD BAGS OWN BAG COLLECTION AVAILABLE 023 8066 0123 01590 619700 • 01962 588288 Email: office@solentskiphire.co.uk Fawley Parish Council Named Hampshire Council of the Year 2025 Fawley Parish Council has been awarded Hampshire Council of the Year 2025 by the Hampshire Association of Local Councils (HALC), recognising its outstanding leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the local community. HALC’s announcement praised Fawley Parish Council for setting “a standard of excellence for parish councils across Hampshire” through its strategic vision, strong governance, and active community engagement. e award celebrates a council that exempli es the very best in local government - forward-thinking, inclusive, and deeply rooted in its community. Council Chairman Alan Alvey said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be named Hampshire’s Council of the Year. This award belongs to everyone in Fawley - councillors, staff, volunteers, and residents - who work together to make our community such a special place. It’s a real celebration of what can be achieved when people pull together with passion and pride.” Over the past year, Fawley Parish Council has gone above and beyond in delivering value for residents. Councillors and o cers have worked tirelessly to ensure the best possible value from the council’s budget, while successfully securing external grants to deliver projects and services that go well beyond what could be achieved through the parish precept alone. is proactive approach has enabled a wide range of initiatives that have enhanced community life and improved local facilities. Among the many achievements are the creation of a new Centre has boosted biodiversity and reclaimed a boggy area, and a brand-new baseball pitch has been provided to meet the needs of one of the parish’s fastest-growing sports. e council continues to bring people together through free and low-cost community events such as Emergency Services Day, Armed Forces Day, and the annual Fireworks Display. Over the past year, special commemorations have also marked D-Day and VE Day with a ernoon tea, live music, and the installation of a commemorative bench - meaningful gestures that have honoured both local and national heritage while strengthening community bonds. In partnership with Waterside Arts, the council has ensured that high-quality cultural opportunities are accessible to all. From live theatre performances and music to children’s arts festivals, these collaborations have helped make arts and culture a vibrant part of everyday life within the parish. Looking to the future, the council’s Strategic Plan to 2030 and Neighbourhood Plan are shaping a sustainable, community-driven path forward. e refurbishment of Jubilee Hall and St George’s Hall, along with the creation of the Six Villages Charity, underline the council’s commitment to long-term investment in community spaces and nancial resilience. From o cers entering local ower festivals to sta fundraising for charities and residents nominating neighbours for Fawley’s Finest awards, community spirit remains at the heart of everything the council does. is recognition from HALC is not only a re ection of past achievements but a springboard for future ambition. Fawley Parish Council continues to demonstrate that with strong leadership, teamwork, consultation, and dedication, a parish can achieve extraordinary things for the people it serves. Community Orchard, transforming unused land into a flourishing community space, and the provision of new allotments to meet growing demand for sustainable, healthy lifestyles. e council has organised holiday clubs with meals included to support families throughout school holidays and overseen major energysaving upgrades at Gang Warily Recreation Centre, ensuring its long-term sustainability. Two popup cinemas have brought affordable entertainment to underserved areas, while the installation of a Christmas tree in Black eld has helped foster local pride and identity. Tree planting at Gang Warily Recreation Councillor Chas McGill MBE receiving the HALC Council of the Year Award 2025
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