v THE HERALD, 2 HIGH STREET, HYTHE, SO45 6AH v No 490 • FREE Every 3 Weeks • 23rd April-14th May 2026 Est: 1994 The Your Community Magazine Vehicle Servicing Garage For all your mechanical needs Tyres, Servicing, Clutches Diagnostic work, Brakes Cam Belts, Tyres, Exhausts, MOT’s arranged Servicing from £69.99 See main advert page 79 Free local collection Courtesy cars available 114-118 Hampton Lane, Blackfield SO45 1UB www.rightautos.co.uk • 023 8089 0600 Quickstep Laminate Floors, Luxury Vinyl Tiles SJ SAVAGE BUILDING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE • Extensions • Loft Conversions • All aspects of building works including Decorating 07788 868262 stevesavo@hotmail.co.uk FOUR SEASONS DENTURE CENTRE MORE THAN JUST A DENTAL LABORATORY If you want the best quality dentures in a relaxed, friendly and professional environment then call today for a free consultation Tel: 023 8084 6443 Mobile: 07919 074360 1 HOUR DENTURE REPAIRS North Road, Dibden Purlieu, Southampton SO45 4RE NEED NEW DENTURES? STAIRLIFTS STAIRLIFTS Freedom Stairlifts Straight Stairlifts Curved Stairlifts freedomstairlifts.co.uk 15 Marsh Parade, Hythe 023 8084 4741 FRAME SHOP HYTHE PICTURE FRAMING • 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 Triple Award-Winning Chelsea Flower Show Garden Finds Permanent Home At Honeypot House A triple award-winning garden from the RHS Chelsea Flower Show has been relocated to e Honeypot Children’s Charity’s Honeypot House in the New Forest, creating a lasting legacy for young carers, and children facing challenging circumstances, aged 5–12 who visit the charity for residential breaks. e Addleshaw Goddard Freedom to Flourish Garden, designed by Carey Garden Design Studio, captured national attention at the 2025 show, winning an RHS Chelsea Gold Medal, Small Garden of the Year and Best Construction (Small Show Garden). Now, following its careful relocation, the garden has o cially opened in its permanent home within the grounds of Honeypot House. e project was made possible through the collaboration of Carey Garden Design Studio, teams from Addleshaw Goddard and Honeypot volunteers, who worked together to recreate the award-winning design so it can be enjoyed for years to come. A special opening event took place at the house, attended by representatives from Addleshaw Goddard, Honeypot sta and volunteers, with speeches celebrating the garden’s new role as a peaceful space to support children’s health and wellbeing. Visiting the garden at Chelsea Flower Show 2025 Continued on page 3
Page 2 • The HERALD • 23rd April 2026 v SAY YOU SAW IT IN THE HERALD v PICK UP YOUR COPY FROM HYTHE • Age Concern • Amberley Jewellers • 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 • The Indian Kitchen • Jane Bidwell Flowers • J R Hardware • KJ’s Mobility • Luis Liu • LW Repairs • The Maples • Master Spares • 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 • Visual Cuts • Waitrose • Warings • Waterside Furnishings • Waterside Health Centre • Waterside Physiotherapy & Osteopathy Clinic • Waterside Tours • WessMaps 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 • Goodies • Graysons Hairdressers • Hairtalk • Hairway Barbers • Hanger Farm • HCC • Images Hairdressers • 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 • Lyndhurst Community Centre • The Lyndhurst Tea House • Lyndhurst Working Mens Club • Mailmans Arms •Oakhaven • Peggy May’s Coffee Shop • Tesco • 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 23rd April 2026 • The HERALD • Page 3 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 • 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 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 Aster Crawshaw, Senior Partner at Addleshaw Goddard, said: “We are delighted to see the Addleshaw Goddard: Freedom to Flourish garden in its permanent new home at Honeypot House, where it will offer an oasis of calm for the young carers Honeypot supports. The ethos of the garden’s design was to create a place of calm and respite and so it feels appropriate that it will become a lasting space to rest, play and relax.” Originally created to re ect the calming power of nature, the garden aligns closely with Honeypot’s mission to give young carers and children who face challenging circumstances the chance to relax, recharge and enjoy carefree moments away from daily pressures. e space will now play an important role in residential breaks, providing opportunities for children to connect with nature, build friendships and simply be children. Simmi Woodwal, CEO of e Honeypot Children’s Charity, added: “We are incredibly grateful to Addleshaw Goddard for their continued support and for creating such a meaningful and lasting legacy for Honeypot. The Freedom to Flourish Garden is more than just a beautiful space – it is a place where our young carers can pause, reflect and enjoy moments of calm and joy during their time with us. This garden will be enjoyed by so many children for years to come and stands as a wonderful symbol of what this partnership has achieved together.” Triple Award-Winning Chelsea Flower Show Garden Finds Permanent Home At Honeypot House Continued from front page e relocation also re ects a growing focus on sustainability and legacy from Chelsea Flower Show gardens, ensuring their impact continues long a er the event itself. For the children who come to stay at Honeypot House, the Freedom to Flourish garden will become part of their experience – a place to unwind, play, re ect and make happy memories. HYTHE PIER RE-OPENS Having been closed since late September, the gates were nally unlocked and Hythe Pier was re-opened to the public at the beginning of April. Pier owner Ashleigh MutimearMacMillan detailed in her announcement of the re-opening that “A significant programme of work had been undertaken (during the months of closure)” She continued, “This included extensive electrical upgrades, alongside a full-cleaning of the pier, supported by local businesses, DFC Electrical, Masterblast and Holbury Tool Hire”. Volunteers from the Hythe Shed (at the Pier) were very much involved in the e orts to bring the historic pier “Back into active use”. Whilst the future of the Hythe Ferry continues to be uncertain, public access to the pier, which will be operated under the management of the Hythe Pier Company, will be con ned to pedestrian use. Negotiations are however ongoing with interested parties to also bring the pier train back into service. e pier opening times are from 10am until 4pm on Tuesday - Saturday. A £1 pier toll will apply. All income generated is being put back into the pier to secure its ongoing future.
Page 4 • The HERALD • 23rd April 2026 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 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 Cardiac Charity Receives £6,000 Donation From Local Trust A cardiac charity in Southampton has received a kind donation of £6,000 from the Marden Charitable Trust. Trustees of the Marden Charitable Trust, Kay and Adrian Butterworth from Brockenhurst, have made the biggest donation of their nancial year to cardiac charity Heartbeat to acknowledge its work supporting Kay as she underwent treatment for a heart condition. In 2022, Kay visited her local surgery as she had swollen ankles and legs, water retention and breathlessness. She was given water pills but symptoms continued - culminating in her emergency admission to Southampton General Hospital in May 2025 with congestive heart failure. Following this, she sought help from Lead Heart Failure Consultant Cardiologist at University Hospital Southampton and a Trustee of Heartbeat Dr Paul Haydock. He quickly ascertained the le side of Kays’ heart was not working properly and the right side was over compensating to keep up - resulting in the symptoms she had been su ering from. Kay had a pacemaker installed at the end of last year. Kay said she received second-to-none high-quality care and wanted to say thank you to the team at Heartbeat for the treatment she received and added: “Anyone who has been in and out of hospital to receive treatment will know the toll it can take on everyone close to you. Treatment I received at the hospital, but particularly from Dr Paul Haydock and his team, gave both me and my family the reassurance that I was in safe hands.” Adrian said: “As trustees of the Marden Charitable Trust, our aim is to give money to local organisations that do meaningful work – and we have a preference for charities that have human or nature interests. When make meaningful donations, rather than just a one-off, so we’re hoping to continue supporting Heartbeat to acknowledge the difference it’s made for us.” e funds will go towards the renovation of the heart failure unit at the University Hospital Southampton. Community Fundraising and Marketing Manager at Heartbeat Tanya Harder said: “We were delighted when we heard that Kay and Adrian wanted to make such a generous donation. To know that Kay has personally benefitted from our support makes it even more special. So much of what we do is funded by charitable donations – we couldn’t make an impact without the generosity and kindness of others.” Kay became unwell, saying thank you to Heartbeat didn’t only fit us personally, but it fitted the Trust’s aims perfectly well too. As a Trust we also like to Marden Charitable Trust Trustees Kay and Adrian Butterworth Sammy The Seal Is Back In Print! e popular local children’s book ‘A Seal Swam In From e Sea’ by Simon Chadwick is back in print. e book was originally put together as one of the many fund-raising e orts to save the Hythe Ferry following the pandemic. e book completely sold out, raising thousands of pounds for the cause. is second print run will also be raising money, but this time will donate £2 from every copy to supporting the Hythe pier and train. “The original story was never intended to be a book,” explained Simon. “It was created at the request of Hythe Library for a story trail around the village, but when the future of the ferry was put in doubt due to colossal bills and lack of income it was suggested by the parish council that the story could help. It took on a life of its own after that.” Today the ferry’s future is in the balance again, but for di erent reasons, but the work to restore and maintain the pier and train goes on regardless. Copies of the book are £7 and available from e Herald o ce, Hythe Pier, Toys Ahoy and Dibden Purlieu Post O ce, or online at: ceratopia books.co.uk
v SAY YOU SAW IT IN THE HERALD v 23rd April 2026 • 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 LORD-LIEUTENANT MEETS VOLUNTEERS CHANGING LIVES FROM NETLEY MARSH Tools for Self Reliance was delighted to welcome HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson Esq, to its Netley Marsh workshop in March, where he met volunteers and learned more about the charity’s practical, skills-based work. During the visit, the Lord-Lieutenant toured the workshop and spent time speaking with volunteers, including some who have supported the charity for more than 40 years. He heard rst-hand why they continue to give their time and expertise, and how their contribution helps create opportunities for others. For 45 years, Tools for Self Reliance has supported people to build sustainable livelihoods through vocational training. Working with trusted partner organisations across Africa, the charity supports the delivery of training in trades such as carpentry, tailoring, agriculture and mechanics, alongside business skills to help people earn an income and support their families. e Lord-Lieutenant also heard about the charity’s UK partnerships, including its work with Building Heroes, which supports military veterans and their families as they retrain and build new careers. He saw how donated tools, refurbished by volunteers in Netley Marsh, support both international training projects and initiatives closer to home. Speaking a er the visit, the Lord-Lieutenant said: “I am impressed by the depth of commitment shown by the volunteers and the practical impact of the charity’s work. It is clear that Tools for Self Reliance is built on long-term dedication. The volunteers here are not only preserving valuable skills but helping to pass them on in ways that change lives. It is encouraging to see such sustained community involvement making a real difference.” Sarah Ingleby, CEO of Tools for Self Reliance, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Lord-Lieutenant to our workshop. Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. Their time, skill and generosity enable people to gain practical training and the confidence to build a working future.” Based in Netley Marsh and supported by more than 350 volunteers across the UK, Tools for Self Reliance is committed to creating opportunity through skills, and promoting the circular economy. e charity relies on the support of local donors and funders to continue its work. Members of the local community who would like to support Tools for Self Reliance can nd out more at: www.tfsr.org Lord-Lieutenant with Tools for Self Reliance Team
Page 6 • The HERALD • 23rd April 2026 v PART OF YOUR COMMUNITY FOR OVER 31 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 Your Local Professional Electrician • Complete Rewires • Periodic Inspection Reports • Fault Finding & Repair • New Consumer Units • New Circuits • Central Heating Wiring • Extra Sockets/Lights • PAT Testing • No Job Too Small • Part P Registered • Fast & Efficient Service • Free Estimates Telephone Gary on 07788 865081 forestelectrical@gmail.com 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 All aspects of Plastering & General Decorating Covered Free Quotations Fully Insured Mobile 07941 255335 Phone: 023 8089 8324 parkesij@yahoo.co.uk www.ijs4plastering.co.uk Send your news to The Herald by email: editor@herald-publishing.co.uk Wessex Insurance Brokers Limited Make Donation to Fawley Men’s Shed Fawley Men’s Shed recently had a visit from their insurance brokers! All was good though, and they arrived bearing gi s. John Mitchell, Managing Director and Emma Mitchell, Account Handler from Wessex Insurance Brokers Limited visited on 18th March to see what goes on at the Shed and to drop o a supply of gun stocks - yes, gun stocks! John explained where they came from, “Hampshire Police! When guns are disposed of, the wooden stocks are cut-off, and we are pleased to help Men’s Sheds in the area make use of them. The metal parts are safely disposed of separately. This is the third time we have assisted the police in this way.” Bob Bunn, chair for the Shed, said, “This is an unusual donation but a welcome one. The high-quality wood can be turned into pens, table legs, door stops and many unusual items which we will be selling at the forthcoming Fawley Armed Forces Day and at the regular Exbury Club craft fairs.” ey also make items on request, examples of which can be seen on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ fawleymensshed e Shed, based in Newlands Road, Fawley, SO45 1GA is open Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10am and 4pm, new members are always welcome by either just turning up or call: 0755 5772024 and leave a message. Bob adds: “Fawley Men’s Shed is a registered charity (Charity number: 1180419) and provides a welcoming place for mainly men, although we do also have several female members, to dabble in woodworking or just sit and have a chat. Our monthly fish and chips day is particularly popular. We also provide one-to-one wood turning lessons at a very modest cost of £20 per hour from our very experienced in-house expert, Roy Merritt. Call Roy on: 07818 451275 for further details.” Left to right: Bob Bunn, Chair of the Fawley Men’s Shed, Emma Mitchell, Account Handler and John Mitchell, Managing Director, both from Wessex Insurance Brokers Limited e refurbishment project at East Boldre Village Hall is now well underway. e builders (Westmade Ltd.) are making good progress with many trades now on site and there are visible signs of how the improved hall will look. e asbestos has been removed from the main wall, removing this wall will increase seating capacity by almost 50%. e new internal walls are now built to recon gure the kitchen and store area, the toilets and a new corridor into the Robert Coles Room. e rst x electric and plumbing works have been completed. e walls in the toilets have been lined with aqua board and the kitchen and storeroom have been plastered. East Boldre Village Hall Refurbishment Update: Raising the Roof! o ered to help decorate. If you would like to help in anyway, please email the team: ebvillagehall@ eastboldre.org Donations are also gratefully received please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/charity/ eastboldrevillagehall e sca olding is being erected, and work is starting on the outside wall on the side of the hall where the main entrance is. e “bird cage” is being installed inside the hall to give the builders safe access to the roof. anks to the team of volunteers who have The main wall between the hall and old storeroom has been stripped Plaster drying out in the kitchen “Bird cage” being erected
23rd April 2026 • The HERALD • Page 7 Rehau Smarts
Page 8 • The HERALD • 23rd April 2026 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…… Romsey & Waterside Lions Donation to Romsey Family Support Group Romsey & Waterside Lions recently donated £300 to the Romsey Family Support Group to fund the purchase of a mobile phone and tablet which are to be used exclusively by the Group, thus safeguarding and restricting data to members and sta . Right: Lions Catherine and Patrick Berry presenting the cheque to Pauline Buckley, Joint Manager Free Antiques and Collectibles Valuation Day With TV’s Paul Martin If you have an antique or collectible at home and you are intrigued to know what it might be worth, take it along to the Community Centre in Milford on Sea on Tuesday 19th May, between 10.30am – 3.30pm, where TV antiques expert Paul Martin is holding a free antiques and collectibles valuation day. Well known from BBC’s Flog It and other antiques programmes, Paul has over 30 years’ experience in the industry and when he’s not lming for TV is Head of Valuations for Henry Aldridge Auction Rooms in Devizes. Paul comments: “I’ll bring the history of your items alive, talking about the makers, the social history, and the values looking at jewellery, coins, medals and watches, everyone gets to meet me and share their back story, bring as many items as you can carry! It’s very much Flog It style, giving advice and free valuations, we can also consign items to auction for you if you require.” ere is parking and refreshments available at the Community Centre, don’t worry about losing your place in the queue if you want to grab a co ee, everyone will be given a numbered ticket on arrival. Paul Martin ank you for all your recent donations of old and foreign coins for Hythe Pier Heritage Association (HPHA) another £215.17 has been raised, with more on the way soon, as another two bucket loads have recently been sent o to be sorted and exchanged. If you have any old or foreign coins or notes at home, you can donate them to the HPHA via the bucket in e Herald o ce in Hythe. Donated Coins Helping HPHA
23rd April 2026 • The HERALD • Page 9
Page 10 • The HERALD • 23rd April 2026 v F @heraldpublishing v FLAT ROOFING SPECIALISTS All Roof Repairs Tel: 023 8184 5632 Mobile: 07880 508415 Email: steve@braithwaiteroo ng.co.uk THE FLAT ROOF SPECIALIST ALL ASPECTS OF ELECTRICAL WORK UNDERTAKEN • Full Rewires • New Circuits • Consumer Unit Replacements • Electric Vehicle Charging Points • Landlord Certification • Smart Homes • Central Heating Controls 023 8089 0932 or 07534 343631 www.alnelectrical.co.uk info@alnelectrical.co.uk The Square, Fawley, Southampton SO45 1DD T: 023 8112 3112 E: office@zebra-ltd.co.uk All Plumbing Works Undertaken Full Bathroom Installation Toilet Fix from £75 Fully Insured Free Quotes No Job Too Big or Too Small PLUMBING & BATHROOMS • Re-Skimming • Rendering • Coving • Dry Lining • Tacking • Artex Covered • Floor Screeding www.tbrownplastering.co.uk Call: 07919 183989 Friendly • Reliable • Professional • Free Estimates Elite performers in science, technology, engineering and maths subjects at Brockenhurst College were formally recognised for their achievements at the college’s STEM Awards in March. e twilight, invitation-only event was staged in the main hall and represented the climax of British Science Week 2026 at Brock. It was hosted by Principal and CEO Helen Odhams, alongside Chair of Governors Bob Hogg, and was sponsored by Osprey Charging, which provides a charging network for electric vehicles. Each winner collected a framed certi cate containing a citation, along with a cheque for either £50 or £25, depending on whether they had won a Gold Award or a Silver Award. Also, South Coast Institute of Technology Director Matt Johnson gave a keynote speech about the skills and personal attributes needed to be successful in a STEM career. Mia Slattery from Lymington won the Gold Award for Geology and the Silver Award for Environmental Science. She said a erwards: “I feel completely honoured to win these awards - I wasn’t expecting it at all. I’m really proud of the hard work that I’ve been putting in, and I’m really happy that it’s been recognised. I’m hoping to go to university and study something related to earth sciences.” High Achieving STEM Students Celebrated At Brockenhurst College STEM Awards Award: Beth Dunkerley Further Maths A Level Gold Award: Rose Gulland Further Maths A Level Silver Award: Zaad Chima Engineering Level 3 Extended Diploma Gold Award: Thomas Evans Engineering Level 3 Extended Diploma Silver Award: Seth Holdstock Engineering Level 3 Extended Certi cate Gold Award: Matt Archer-smith Engineering Level 3 Extended Certi cate Silver Award: Jonas Josiah Engineering Level 2 Diploma Gold Award: Persephone Beacham Performing Engineering Operations Level 1 Diploma Gold Award: Noah Moxom Electronics A Level Gold Award: Jasper Morris Electronics A Level Silver Award: James Webb Product Design A Level Gold Award: Mark Kunchanapongphan Product Design A Level Silver Award: Hazel HonorBrown Information Technology Level 3 Extended Diploma Gold Award: Georgie York Information Technology Level 3 Extended Diploma Silver Award: Light Ugochukwu Computer Science A Level Gold Award: Dylan Rogers Computer Science A Level Silver Award: Albie Atkinson Information Technology Level 3 Extended Certi cate Silver Award: Alex Leach Information Technology Level 3 Extended Certi cate Gold Award: Freya Marr Information Technology Level 2 Diploma Gold Award: Max Gillhespie Brockenhurst College STEM Awards winners: Biology A Level Gold Award: Ace Storey Biology A Level Silver Award: Lara Allo Chemistry A Level Gold Award: Issac Harding Chemistry A Level Silver Award: Kayleigh Marshall Physics A Level Gold Award: Rowan Chandler Physics A Level Silver Award: George Heard Environmental Science A Level Gold Award: Venus Matthews Environmental Science A Level Silver Award: Mia Slattery Geology A Level Gold Award: Mia Slattery Geology A Level Silver Award: Sam Thomas Human Biology Level 3 Applied Diploma Gold Award: Caitlyn Kemp Human Biology Level 3 Applied Diploma Silver Award: Tahira Butt Maths A Level Gold Award: Amy Thomas Maths A Level Silver Mia Slattery with her two awards 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
23rd April 2026 • The HERALD • Page 11 v SHOP LOCALLY FOR SERVICE & VALUE v UPVC, WOODEN DOOR, WINDOW SPECIALIST LOCK PROBLEMS? We Can Help with ALL types of Locks • Fix or Replace • Gain Entry 24hr Emergency Call Outs • Specialised Non-Destructive Entries • Safe Unlocking Expertise • Broken Key Removals • Insurance Purpose Lock Changes & Repairs • Swift Burglary Repairs, Extra Door & Window Security Upgrades • Police Approved Keysafes – Emergency Boarding • Anti-Burglar Bars/Grilles For Windows & Doors, • Free Security Checks • Crime Prevention Advice Awarded Police Recognition, Donald Bugsy Edwards • All Work Guaranteed • No Call Out Charge • No VAT YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT LOCKSMITH BE WISE CALL KEYWISE 07453 327708 or 023 8155 0025 24 HOUR SERVICE 07946 222820 info@hunterwgc.co.uk www.hunterwgc.co.uk SPRING’S HERE - GET YOUR GUTTERS CLEANED OUT & REPAIRED Domestic & Commercial • WINDOW CLEANING • FASCIAS • SOFFITS • GUTTERING • CONSERVATORIES • GUTTER REPAIRS 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 Inclusive Performing Arts Fundraiser Exceeds Target Hampshire’s rst full day performing arts course for people with learning disabilities is set to launch this year a er supporters helped a fundraiser exceed its target. Blue Apple eatre and Minstead Trust have successfully completed their Big Give Arts for Impact campaign, raising £8,892.94 including Gi Aid and surpassing their original target within two days of launch. e campaign was supported by Arts Council England, whose match funding through the Big Give doubled every eligible donation during the one-week appeal. With an additional pledged £6,000 from a private donor, a total of £14,892.94 will now support the launch of Centre Stage, a new daytime performing arts course for adults with a learning disability and/ or autism. Centre Stage will run as a 12 week pilot later this year and will be the rst full day performing arts foundation course of its kind in Hampshire. e programme will o er structured workshops in acting, movement and voice, designed for people who may be completely new to creative training and who o en face barriers accessing traditional evening or community classes. Centre Stage focuses not on fast-tracking participants onto mainstage productions, but on developing skills that extend far beyond the rehearsal room: building con dence, enhancing communication, supporting emotional regulation, working collaboratively, and developing independence and creative resilience. Blue Apple performers Independent research from the University of Winchester (2023) has shown that Blue Apple’s performing arts programmes create profound positive changes in wellbeing, social connection and personal development. Centre Stage brings this evidencebased approach to a new group of people who have historically had limited access to similar opportunities. Richard Conlon, Artistic Director at Blue Apple eatre, said: “This is a brilliant achievement and brings us significantly closer to offering people a creative home and the chance to grow in ways they may never have been able to before. We are enormously grateful to everyone who donated or helped spread the word.” Planning is now underway to nalise the pilot location, secure a suitable venue, recruit participants and appoint an experienced facilitator. An evaluation study will run alongside the pilot to help shape its future development. e evaluation is central to the pilot’s design, ensuring the programme can grow sustainably and re ect what participants say they need. If the pilot proves successful, the long-term ambition is to establish Centre Stage as a permanent part of Blue Apple’s daytime o er and explore further sites across the region. Blue Apple eatre is part of Minstead Trust, which supports more than 600 people with learning disabilities to live more independent and ful lled lives in Dorset and Hampshire. WATERSIDE PRIMARY SCHOOL SPRING FAIR Go along to Waterside Primary School in Ashford Cresent, Hythe (SO45 6ET) on Saturday 16th May, 12noon–3pm for their Spring Fair. Organised by e Friends of Waterside PTA, the Fair will include BBQ, cream teas and refreshments, ice cream van, emergency service vehicles, bouncy castle, face painting, games, cra stalls, ra e, tombola, carboot sale and much more. Free entry – everyone is welcome!
Page 12 • The HERALD • 23rd April 2026 v EMAIL YOUR NEWS: editor@herald-publishing.co.uk v All aspects of Plastering undertaken Fully Qualified, Reliable, Quality Service Free Quotations Call Joe: 07713 724610 @jbplastering92 SPECIALISING IN HOUSE RENOVATIONS THE FITTING OF BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS CARPENTRY, GARAGE CONVERSIONS PATIOS AND GENERAL BUILDING Family-run business with over 30 years of experience Tel: 07774134992 w: southernhomedevelopments.co.uk MY MARINE FINISHER Specialising in Marine Restorations High Quality Finish • Polishing • Grp Repair • Varnishing • Painting • Teak Renovation • Valeting • Monthly Wash • Vinyl Application and more… • 25 years experience • Traditionally trained in all aspectsof Marine finishing • Friendly helpful service Matthew Young 07766 704659 Mymarinefinisher@outlook.com Leaky taps, wonky shelves, flat-pack nightmares, squeaky doors, pictures hung straight, TVs on walls and most of those other jobs you need doing. Reliable, tidy, fully insured, and won’t leave you with a bigger mess than you started with! New Forest & Waterside: SO40–SO43, SO45, SO51 Jim – 07379 383307 HANDYMAN NO JOB TOO SMALL 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 New Forest National Park Authority and Community First Host Inaugural New Forest Volunteer Collective Dozens of organisations came together at the rst New Forest Volunteer Collective to better share learning and expertise. e New Forest Volunteer Collective was convened by the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA), in partnership with Community First, in Brockenhurst on Saturday 21st March to foster a greater sense of volunteering community in the New Forest. e event sparked in-depth thought-provoking discussions, as well as vital networking. ere was also a talk on Community First’s Volunteer First service. Discussions and feedback captured from the Volunteer Collective will be used to improve how volunteering-including organisations work together and better support the volunteering community in the New Forest. e NPA also hosted its annual New Forest National Park Volunteer Fair in January, attended by 750 people with 50 organisations represented. It also hosts a volunteer nder on its website showcasing the breadth of volunteer organisations and opportunities available across the National Park. Community First o ers a volunteer brokerage service matching volunteers with organisations across Hampshire, including the New Forest. New Forest National Park Authority lead access and volunteering o cer, Adam Vasey said: “We often find that volunteer-including organisations make good connections at our Volunteer Fair, however this doesn’t extend much beyond who they happen to have a stall next to. So we created the New Forest Volunteer Collective, alongside Community First, to bring those organisations together to share expertise wider across Team New Forest. Topics explored on the day included recruitment, particularly of younger and working age volunteers, microvolunteering, conflict management, and celebrating volunteer achievements.” Community First lead volunteering service coordinator, Jag Singh said: “It was genuinely inspiring to see so many organisations come together with a shared commitment to strengthening volunteering across the New Forest. There was a real openness in the room, with people sharing honest experiences, practical ideas and learning from one another. At Community First, through our Volunteer First service, we see every day how important those connections are. This felt like a meaningful step towards building a stronger, more joined up volunteering community, and we are really looking forward to what comes next.” e New Forest Volunteer Collective and the NPA’s ongoing support of volunteering in the National Park is made possible by National Lottery Players through our New Routes to Nature project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Find out more about volunteering in the New Forest on the NPA website: https://newforestnpa.gov.uk/getinvolved/volunteer Find out more about Community First and its Volunteer First service at: https://www.c rst.org.uk Organisations coming together at the New Forest Volunteer Collective 2026 (Credit: New Forest National Park Authority) New Forest National Park Authority lead access and volunteering officer, Adam Vasey (centre) (Credit: New Forest National Park Authority)
23rd April 2026 • 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 • 23rd April 2026 v READ THE HERALD ONLINE: www.herald-publishing.co.uk v DRIVEWAYS Block Paving, Tarmac & Gravel Sand, Seal & Repair Service Call for a free quote & friendly advice FREEPHONE 0800 303 2558 Tel: 023 8098 3673 Direct: 07584 828587 www.drivewayscompanysouthampton.co.uk DON’T MOVE, JUST IMPROVE COUNTRY STYLE DRIVEWAYS Tarmacadam & Paving HANNAH’S ELECTRICS Your Local Female Electrician NEED AN ELECTRICIAN? From simple upgrades to complete house re-wiring - and everything in-between, Hannah’s Electrics is the perfect choice. A trusted tradeswoman with sensible rates covering Southampton, New Forest & Waterside areas CONTACT HANNAH 07585 778136 W: www.hannahs-electrics.co.uk • E: hannahelectrics@gmail.com Like us on Facebook • Re-Skimming • Rendering • Coving • Dry Lining • Tacking • Artex Covered • Floor Screeding www.tbrownplastering.co.uk Call: 07919 183989 Friendly • Reliable • Professional • Free Estimates MUSIC IN MAY WITH ANN TURNER AND FRIENDS from Ann and David Turner On Saturday 9th May at 7.30pm in St Andrew’s Church Hall, Dibden Purlieu Ann Turner and Friends are presenting a concert entitled ‘Music in May’. For various reasons we have decided that this will be our last concert and would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those who have performed with us and the audiences who have attended our concerts to allow us to raise money for a lot of charities over a considerable number of years, it would seem not unreasonable to put thanks in from the charities that we have supported as well; the advantages for the charities are not only nancial but in a raised awareness of them. We are also delighted that some people are joining us for this concert who have not been able, for many reasons, to perform with us more recently. e concert will be in support of Hope Gardens in Tamil Nadu, South India. Hope Gardens is based in Cumbum and is linked to the Christian facility, Rhema Garden. e charity has been supported by St Andrew’s church for 25 years or more, having been started by a former curate in the church with the, now Archbishop, Samuel Gnanaprahasam. e concert will feature a range of styles of music including operetta, musical theatre, and consist of vocal music: solos, duets and chorus items and piano duets. You will hear more about the charity during the evening. e work of Hope Gardens is structured along three programmes. Included in the hope for children programme there is a well-established and respected school in the gardens caring for and educating children with disabilities. In Indian society children with learning or physical disabilities are o en neglected, if not worse. e school in Hope Gardens supports 28 children where they are taught how to integrate into society within the learning community and when they leave the garden at 15 they are able to contribute to society and their families. ere is the provision of a er school activities in various communities where the children are provided with food and a safe space when their parents or carers are o en not home until a er dark. ere is also sponsorship provided for orphaned and semi-orphaned children. e hope for churches programme includes the bible college in the garden where those seeking to pursue a career in ministry are trained. e pastors go out, with their families, into local communities building sustainable programmes to help local people live selfsu ciently. Hope for communities includes provision of the medical centre in the garden, rst set up in 2009, o ering rst class and a ordable health care to those who might otherwise be overlooked, there are also 32 villages served by the mobile medical services launched in 2010. ere are currently 6 sewing institutes empowering women providing vocational training and boosting income and self-worth. ere is also help with the provision of food independence. One paddy eld of 3.36 acres was purchased in 2019 and the nalising of an additional 1.68 acres near to the dining hall is near completion. More information about the charity is on their website: www.hopegardensindia.org ere is no charge or tickets for the concert but there will be a retiring collection which will be used totally in support of the charity. Why not come along to an entertaining evening and support a very worthwhile cause. e Hythe & Waterside Rotary team of litter pickers were delighted to be joined by local Councillor Laura O’Halloran when they arrived in Holbury to start their clean up. As part of the Great British Spring Clean, Rotarians decided to carry out a litter pick in the centre of Holbury where they collected sack loads of sweet wrappers, fast-food wrappings and lots of drinks cans. “It was very rewarding to make such a difference in the local area” said Hythe & Waterside Rotary President Ian Wheeler, “And we would like to thank the Co-op store in Holbury for allowing us to use their car park as our base”. The Great British Spring Clean Litter pickers with Cllr O’Halloran Rotary Litter pickers WATERSIDE TENNIS CLUB CELEBRATES 75 YEARS Waterside Tennis Club, which evolved from the Esso Sports and Social Club in Long Lane, Holbury, has been providing tennis both competitively and socially for players of all abilities since its creation in 1951. With a membership of over 100, the club now also o ers coaching for both adults and juniors, and an active social calendar too! e club will be celebrating its 75th Anniversary with an A ernoon Tea at the clubhouse on Sunday 17th May at 3pm. ey would love past members to join them with their photos, memorabilia and anecdotes. If possible, please contact the Social Secretary, Mary Fort on: 07887 720621 or email: maryrefort@gmail.com to let her know that you will be attending.
v THE HERALD - YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE v 23rd April 2026 • The HERALD • Page 15 Hand-Dyed Yarn Pop-Up Comes to Hythe Local yarn shop Fully Woolly is set to welcome a special guest this May, as independent yarn dyer Pixie Yarn brings a colourful pop-up shop to Hythe village. Taking place on Saturday 9th May, the one-day event will see Sophie, the maker behind Pixie Yarn, showcasing her beautifully hand-dyed yarns. Based in the Somerset countryside, Sophie dyes small batches of yarn inspired by nature, colour and creativity, making each skein truly unique. Visitors can browse a stunning range of yarns, from rich jewel tones to so , speckled colourways, perfect for knitters and crocheters looking for their next project. e pop-up will run from 9am to 4pm at Fully Woolly, o ering a rare opportunity to shop indie-dyed yarns in person and meet the maker behind them. Whether you’re a seasoned cra er or simply curious, everyone is welcome to go along, soak up the creative atmosphere, and discover something special. Fully Woolly, 11a High Street, Hythe SO45 6AG. www.fullywoolly.co.uk Full details of the day, how it will run, how to get sponsorship, and all other information you need will be given once they can assess the interest from local groups. Get in touch with them as soon as possible at: testvalesquares@ gmail.com if you’d like to join them. For more TESTVALE SQUARES DANCEATHON FOR CHILDREN IN NEED information from the Club visit: testvalesquares.co.uk Dance is the perfect exercise for all ages, keeping both body and mind active whilst learning new moves and progressing through the di erent levels. e Danceathon is the perfect opportunity to promote this to the local community whilst also raising vital funds for Children in Need. Testvale Squares are looking for Dance Clubs local to Totton to join them at their Danceathon on 14th November in the Totton & Eling Community Centre. ey’ll be running the event from 10am till 5pm with time slots for each dance group. ey’re also hoping to get Pudsey along to join them for photo opportunities in the run-up to the event. Holbury Manor WI Holbury Manor WI is a friendly group that meets on the fourth Monday of the month at Fawley Rugby Football Club (RFC), Newlands Road, Fawley SO45 1GA at 7.30pm. eir next meeting is on 27th April for a talk titled ‘Can you recycle anything and everything’ by Lucie Mann. Visitors are always welcome to go along to see (and hear) what they do and what being in the WI is all about! Please contact: holburysec@hampshirewi. org.uk for more details, or do go along to a meeting.
Page 16 • The HERALD • 23rd April 2026 v SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSES v WATERSIDE NETWORK GROUP: MEMBER FOCUS by Simon Chadwick This issue’s trusted member of the Waterside Network Group is Maples Bookkeeping. For many of us, VAT, payroll and other bookkeeping necessities are a day-to-day strain. However, by using the skills and experience of Martin Deadman at Maples Bookkeeping Services, based in Hythe, you can relax in the knowledge that your accounts are in good hands. Martin is a certi ed bookkeeper licensed by the Institute of Certi ed Bookkeepers with many years of business, nancial and management experience. Under HMRC’s Making Tax Digital strategy, all businesses are having to change the way they record their nances and interact with the tax man. is means getting to grips with Cloud-based accounting systems, and falling in line with HMRC’s expectations. Martin has already helped a plethora of local businesses negotiate this di cult hurdle with his expertise in Quickbooks, Xero and Freeagent. For many business owners, the accounting side of running their business leaves them cold, and o en frustrated, but because Martin is an Advanced Quickbooks Online Proadvisor (Platinum Partner), a Xero Bronze Certi ed Advisor and a Freeagent Certi ed Practitioner, you can rest assured that you’re getting the essential help you need to comply with HMRC’s changes. Martin can o er a exible, e cient approach to assisting you, utilising modern technology to give you peace of mind. So whether you need help with Year End, Self Assessment Returns, or just a few regular hours per week to keep your accounts up-to-date, Martin, and Maples Bookkeeping, are there for you. For a full list of ways in which Maples Bookkeeping can help, please take a look at the website, and take advantage of the free consultation and no-obligation quote. ere’s no better time than now to get to grips with your accounts. Please visit www.maplesbookkeeping.co.uk Alternatively, please use the contact details, opposite. Are You Overpaying On Your Household Bills? by Claire Curl, Fair Bills With energy prices constantly changing, many households don’t realise they could be paying more than they need to. In fact, most people rarely review their bills - meaning savings can easily be missed. Here are a few quick tips to stay in control: • Check if you’re on a xed or variable energy tari • Keep an eye on contract end dates • Review how many providers you’re using—multiple bills can mean confusion • Consider combining services to simplify your monthly outgoings I help households bring energy, broadband and mobile together into one simple monthly bill through Utility Warehouse. is not only makes things easier to manage but can also unlock access to xed tari s, helping protect you from future price rises. If you’re unsure what you’re currently paying, or just want a second opinion, I o er a free, no-obligation bill review. Please call Claire at Fair Bills on: 07823 554 362. For bills that are fair speak to Claire. Claire Curl, Fair Bills Martin Deadman, Maples Bookkeeping
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