Winchester Today - January 2013

Cheriton - Romsey - Littleton - Alresford - Chandler’s Ford

Prize Crossword and activities page, worth over £200!Prize ........................ 17

@winchestertodayMonthly • Issue 005 winchestertoday.co.uk

FREEJanuary 2013

Rebecca Rayner’s special report on The Joiners closure threat Page 7

Brussels, Canada and Ireland all featured in this bumper section Pages 9 - 12

Escape: Pullout

Inside

City Council proceed with second phase of its Local PlanProperty .................. 14

… and not forgetting Cheriton, Romsey, Stockbridge, Hursley, Kings Worthy, Littleton, Alresford, Chandler’s Ford, Micheldever, Bishop’s Waltham, and everywhere in between!

Turn it Up!

Michael Craig-Martin’s screenprints on displayAlphabet ................... 8

Wish You Were Here!

New Outpatients Ward at CountyHospital

£3m later and the new outpa-tients department at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital has welcomed the first users. The new facilities are on B-Level of Burrell Ward and replace those which over-looked Romsey Road.

Officials have even thought about the longer walk that will have to be endured along the corridor by bringing in a brand-spanking new buggy to help transport them to where they need to be.

There’s also dedicated disabled parking - and a new drop-off area in the car park which will be re-named Burrell Car Park.

Winchester MP Steve Brine has welcomed the news: “I’m delighted that the new outpatients depart-ment came on line in the New Year. I know there has been a lot of work across the board that has gone into this.”

Full details on Page 3

By Kevin Gover, Editor [email protected]

As we have all waited patiently over Christmas and New Year for our opportunity to point at the screen during ‘Les Miserables’ and shout: “I know that place!”, the editorial team has received some fantastic news from

Film Hampshire.The unit reckons it has crowned a

highly successful 2012 by delivering an estimated £3 million boost to the county’s economy.

Part of Hampshire County Council’s Economic Development Office, Film Hampshire helps to attract film crews to the region by researching and

Winchester Today - Your local FREE newsaper - out every month.

£3m Blockbuster for Hampshire finding scenic locations for them.Anyone who knows the county

will realise that Hampshire offers a wide range of opportunities for film, broadcasting and advertising produc-tion companies, not least here in Winchester – as proved with scenes shot for ‘Les Miserables’ around the city’s Cathedral.

The county as a whole boasts over 350 film locations, including 40 historic country houses and 25 parks

Students from Peter Symonds College enjoying the time of their lives on a Duke of Edinburgh Award Expedition in Slovakia. You can find out just how they did it and what they achieved in a special evening being arranged on 29th January at the college.

and forests. In these modern times the crews also demand up-to-scratch domestic and international transport links.

A large number of locally-based companies provide services to the creative industries, and we also have a wealth of historical connections, unparalleled local expertise and an extensive network of contacts.

Continues on Page 4 >>

Winchester Today,Suite 12380 High StreetWinchester SO23 9AT

2 WINCHESTER TODAY JANUARY 2013

Welcome

News in BriefStories for the breakfast table.

WinchesterToday est.2012

Editor-in-Chief:Kevin [email protected]

Deputy Editor:William [email protected]

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News & Features Correspondents:William [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Winchester Today is a publication printed on newsprint, so after you have finished with it please pass it on so others can read it or take care to recycle or re-use it. Be kinder to the environment, thankyou!

Letter from the editor

Hello to all the readers of Winchester Today and a Happy New Year!

Wow, what a great six months it has been for all the team here – and thank you to everyone who sent us a Christmas card and said as much. They really were appreci-ated, so thank you for all your kind messages.

Our next six months look equally fantastic – and we’ve got some good things going too. You can join in with the fun by nominating someone special for one of our awards. You can see more details later in the paper.

As we go in to the New Year, it would be great to think that we could continue as it began weather-wise here in Winchester. What a glorious New Year’s Day! Er, you do remember it, don’t you? There was wall-to-wall sunshine and not a cloud in the sky right through to sundown. Well, if we get the cold snap we’re promised through until February, perhaps we will see more of the sun too, just like last week. At least it will beat all that rain we had last year.

Of course, not everyone had such a great New Year’s Day – I’m thinking here of those involved with the Deanery book sales at the Cathedral and those who work at Phase Eight who had their working lives turned upside-down at the tail end of the day. Our thoughts and best wishes are with you.

**

Congratulations to everyone involved with the planning, building and commissioning of the new outpatients department at RHCH. Thanks also to the nurses and managers for their patience in showing us around. It is truly money well-spent, especially considering the economic times in which we live. Check in and enjoy the view!

**

We hope 2013 is a lucky one for you; don’t forget to pass on your stories, and we look forward to hearing from you.

Kevin Gover, Editor

Interested in becoming a sport contributor or joining the training project for 16 to 25-year-olds, Project:Alfie150? Drop us a line to [email protected]

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Business Development and Marketing Consultant:David [email protected]

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Your Winchester TodayThanks to all these wonderful people who have agreed to stock copies of Winchester Today for their customers:Halfords in WeekeFlower Pots Inn, CheritonThe Co-op, AlresfordCounty News, AlresfordPlaza Theatre, RomseyCheriton Stores and Post OfficeKeats, AlresfordMid-Hants Railway (Watercress Line)Tichborne ArmsSteve Brine’s Office, Stockbridge RoadDever Stores, Sutton ScotneyThree Cups Inn, StockbridgeMarwell Hotel

Paul Hellard & Co, AlresfordAlresford Group SurgeryIVC (Itchen Valley Cars), AlresfordThe Sandwich Shop, AlresfordThe Winchester Book ShopNanoo of Stockbridge RoadThe Naked Grape, AlresfordThe Station Mill, AlresfordLaurel House, AlresfordPerins School, AlresfordThe Horse and Groom, AlresfordThe Running Horse, AlresfordThe Cricketers Inn, AlresfordThe Alresford CobblerThe Courtyard Tearoom, A’fordAlresford Dental PracticeLong Barn Shop and Café, Alresford

The Receiver General of Winchester Cathedral - Mrs Annabelle Boyes - says it was a great relief that no-one was harmed in the incident - but that everyone is very disappointed by what has happened: “The Deanery Book Sale raises valuable funds to support the education for four of our Boy Choristers from generous donations of books given by many people throughout the year. It was launched by a band of volunteers led by the previous Dean’s wife Tessa Till some 12 years ago, and this tradition is carried on by the current residents of the Deanery.”

The incident was one of three in the city on New Year’s Day. At the time of Winchester Today going to press, a 47-year old man of no fixed abode has appeared in court charged with various offences, including arson and arson with intent to endanger life.

News Just days after the choristers at Winchester Cathedral took to the ice rink for pictures which ran around the world came a fire at theDeanery which destroyed stocks of books

News First two businesses recognised with Carbon Smart Winchester certification

News Three men arrest-ed by police in connec-tion to dog thefts

The editorial team here at Winchester Today has been contacted recently by concerned dog owners who are concerned for their animals following dog thefts in the area.

Three men have been arrested by police in connection with recent dog thefts in the Winchester and East Hampshire area.

Three working dogs were stolen

The University of Winchester and Dairy Cottage at Cowgrove Farm are the first two businesses to achieve the Carbon Smart Winchester certification for their efforts to improve their environmental performance.

The scheme was launched in October 2012, with over 30 businesses taking part so far. Each business is helped through the process of evaluating their carbon footprint, and identifying measures to reduce their impact on the environment by the Carbon Smart team.

The University of Winchester has

received the prestigious gold award because each and every aspect of the University’s interaction with the envi-ronment has been considered. This includes a rigorous carbon reduction plan which has seen savings of 22 per cent carbon since 2006. Their actions extend into leading the way and sharing their knowledge and best practice with other organisations and individuals.

Dairy Cottage at Cowgrove Farm offers self-catering holiday accom-modation, and the owners have taken the right steps to minimise its carbon footprint. Measures include providing recycling bins, the use of ecological cleaning products and regular moni-toring and minimising of electricity use.

from external kennels during burgla-ries in Bullington and Owslebury on Sunday, December 30 and Monday, December 31.

The arrests came following a report

of a suspicious vehicle entering a farm yard in the South Warnborough area in the early hours of Thursday, January 10.

Officers stopped a green Subaru

Forester on the A339 travelling towards Alton at 4.50am.

A 20-year-old man from Chobham in Surrey, a 24-year-old man from West Moseley in Surrey and a 21-year-old man from Yateley were arrested on suspicion of going equipped to commit theft and the theft of dogs in December. They have been bailed pending further enquiries until Thursday, March 14.

Anyone with any information should contact the Winchester Rural North Safer Neighbourhoods Team on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Catherine Turness from Winchester BID, Cllr Rob Humby from Winchester City Council, Myra and Malcolm Neal from Dairy Cottage with a selection of their environmentally friendly cleaning products, and Mat Jane from the University of Winchester in front of a green wall

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When working in open-plan offices in a previous life, I used to joke that we would know if we had enough space if we were able to play five-a-side football without banging into the desks. Walking through the new Outpatients Department at RHCH is akin to being at Heathrow’s Terminal 5. Especially if you remember what you had to sit in beforehand!

Walking through the new facilities on B-Level of the Burrell Wing, you wonder if there’s a 767 parked nearby, waiting to whisk you off to Athens. The reception is huge, bright and glorious.

The department is part of Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and has brought together all outpatient clinics as well as Audiology and Ear, Nose and Throat clinics.

The new department will see approx-imately 100,000 patients per year come through its doors, and replaces the old facilities which face Romsey Road.

I’m here on 3rd January - the day after the area opened to patients. I spoke to James Montgomery - who is the Outpatients Manager - to see how Day 1 had gone: “So far it has been great.

There were a few teething things which we’re working through. But essentially we had the first full day of outpatient clinics and we had a lot of positive comments and feedback from the patients and consultants –essen-tially people were able to wait in a nice modern, quality waiting area.”

James agrees that that they had to move on from the previous facilities: “This is a fit-for-purpose environment. The old facilities were still very good in their time but had become dated.

The staff knew how to work there, but it was cramped and frustrating at times. This is what they deserve.”

James tells me there’s been a lot of testing going on over the previous months so that they could deliver a quality service from Day 1.

He also says it’s a positive way to allay fears over whether Winchester was going to lose out under the new

way in which services are now run. “I think you can see this as a good

example of how Hampshire Hospitals want to run the 3 sites as part of one Trust for Hampshire. They want to make it as easy as possible for patients to want to come somewhere that is local to them.

This is a very good example of how the Trust wants to work, invest and deliver a good quality service.”

As you can see from our picture, a number of other developments have taken place on the Royal Hampshire County Hospital site to make it easier for patients to access the new outpa-tient department.

This includes dedicated disabled parking and a drop off area in the Queens Road car park (which will be renamed Burrell Car Park), and a buggy to help patients make their way from the hospital’s multi-storey car park through the site.

Hampshire Hospitals Chief Nurse and Chief Operating Officer Donna Green says they are all so pleased to be able to welcome patients into the new department:

“The old outpatients department was past its best, and did not reflect the excellent standards of care we aim to give our patients. The new depart-ment is modern and purpose built to the latest standards in many fields including infection control and the specialist soundproofing necessary for the audiology clinics. Both staff and our patient voice group have been involved in the planning and design of the new department, and we know it will provide a better working and caring environment for everyone.”

More than £3m has been invested in the IT and the specially designed waiting areas to make waiting with children easier for parents and carers - and also more enjoyable for the children. It looks fantastic. There are even self check-in kiosks. Would that be a window or aisle seat, sir?!

You may find yourself looking for Passport Control –Winchester Today’s Editor checks in at the new premises for outpatients at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital

Boarding passes please - The smart new look for Outpatients


News

Cathedral features as backdrop for Les MiserablesBy Kevin Gover

Story Continued from front page

The news surrounding the success of Film Hampshire will come as a delight to many, not least those within the council itself.

Ray Ellis is responsible for Economic Development and Rural Affairs, and says the result of attracting £3m is encouraging: “Among Hampshire’s great attractions are its outstanding historic buildings and stunning landscapes, which are in much demand.

These figures for 2012 underline the important work that Film Hampshire is doing to strengthen our economy.

Not only do production crews bring an immediate boost to hotels and restaurants but films, adverts and TV programmes showcase our beautiful countryside which in turn encour-ages more tourists to visit and stay.

The tourism sector plays a vital role in the local economy by generating well over £2bn every year from visitors to Hampshire and employs more than 60,000 people.”

He says we are leading by example by working with production companies on big

films that matter: “Tom Hooper’s latest film adaptation of Les Misérables, has parts which were filmed in Hampshire locations, including Winchester College and Portsmouth Naval Base. Other major productions filmed in Hampshire in 2012 include Skyfall, World War Z, and Tom Cruise’s All you Need is Kill, and independent film The Elder. TV credits include the BBC’s Wartime Farm on Manor Farm and The Fixer, and ITV’s Endeavour, Miss Marple and Dom Joly’s Fool Britannia. We are hoping that 2013 will be even more successful”

Film Hampshire exhibited at Earls Court Production Show last February where 150 enquiries from film professionals from Bollywood to Hollywood were generated. The unit also had a familiarisation trip in June with 10 location managers who have worked on productions such as Batman and Harry Potter.

They visited Portsmouth Naval Base, Black Hangar Studios, Aviator Hotel, MOD sites and a selection of Forestry Commission sites with the aim to encourage them to select Hampshire when scouting for productions.

Picture: Universal Pictures

CorrectionsApologies:&

Become a “friend”

Enjoy benefits including 5% off drinks and food and personal

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Great coffee - snacks wines and beers

Spaces for hire for your meeting or party

Cutting-edge exhibitions downstairs in the Jewry St Gallery

We are here to put things right when we get things wrong – which isn’t often, we hope! In our review of ‘Radio Times’ we correctly put Watermill Theatre in the original copy.

We know how famous you are! What happened next though to get it to how it was printed is anyone’s guess; we’re extremely sorry!

Also, apologies to those who tried unsuccessfully to crack one of our Sudoku puzzles last month. You were right, it was impossible!


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Badger Farm Friendly Club (Winchester)Badger Farm Community Centre, Badger Farm Road, Winchester SO22 4QBAlternate Thursdays, 2pm-4pm

Romsey CompanionsCrosfield Hall, Broadwater Road, Romsey SO51 8GLAlternate Mondays, 1.30pm–3.30pm

Romsey Tuesday LuncheonAge Concern Centre, 24 Linden Road, Romsey SO51 8DBEvery Tuesday, term time, 11.30am-1pm

Weeke Gaiety (Winchester)St Barnabas Church, Fromond Road, Weeke, Winchester SO22 6DYAlternate Fridays, 2pm-4pm

Would you like to join a friendship club for people in the South?Brendoncare Clubs are devoted to giving older people the opportunity to meet new friends, take part in activities and enjoy club outings. Here are the clubs running in your area. Why not come along and try out one of the activities and see how you can become a member....we’d love to welcome you there.

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Reviews

Review by Beccy Conway

Jack and the BeanstalkThe Mayflower, Southampton ∞ ∞ ∞ ∞ ∞

It wouldn’t be Christmas without a trip to the pantomime, and this season Jack’s adventures have returned to The Mayflower, with a difference. Combining quintes-sential panto skits with new 3D technology, Jack’s journey has been thrown rapidly into the modern day.

Lee Mead takes on the role of Jack, wowing the audience with his powerful voice. His chemistry with the sardonic ‘Spirit of the Beans’(Julian Clary) is charmingly witty, especially during a crowd-pleasing rendition of ‘Any Dream Will Do’ from Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, the song that made Mead famous.

Clary’s sarcastic commentary to the audience has everyone in stiches, as does his rapport with Nigel Havers who plays the panto’s resident baddie ‘Fleshcreep’, the villagers’ link to the tyrannical giant that resides above their village. Havers has the audience happily hissing and booing with his every entrance and exit, and the moment of “oh no you won’t,” “oh yes I will” has people roaring at the stage.

Paul Zerdin, the incredibly skilled ventriloquist, plays Jack’s brother Simple Simon. Zerdin’s perfor-mance with his rude puppet friend Sam delights everyone, as does his endearing interaction with the children from the audience, who

volunteer to come on-stage in Act II.

Robyn Mellor plays Princess Apricot, and she and her Lady in waiting (Shirleen Jordan) captivate everyone with their beautiful singing voices. The chorus of singers and dancers are enthusiastic, and the fantastic children from The Lindsey Read School of Dance appear to be having a brilliant time performing Gary Lloyd’s choreography.

No panto would be complete without a Dame, and taking up the role is Jeffery Holland. Dame-esque qualities of Clary’s character mean Holland’s role is less prominent, but his funny, sweet interaction with King Crumble (Ian Gledhill) provides great comic-relief from moments with the giant, which could be a little scary for younger members of the audience.

Jonathon Kiley’s direction, combined with 3D special effects by Amazing Interactives, brings the journey up the beanstalk to life. The audience screams and bats away 3D creatures that fly from the stage, and peer upwards as they feel themselves sitting at the giant’s feet. The Mayflower Orchestra pull the production together with profes-sional ease, and the flamboyant costumes by Timi Baer remind everyone why fundamental tradi-tions of the panto are still so well-loved today.

AladdinWritten and directed by James BarryTheatre Royal, Winchester - 5th January 2013, 7pm

Reviewed ByKevin Gover

∞ ∞ ∞ ∞ ∞

Tradition, tradition, tradition… Christmas means outrageous costumes, means terrible jokes, means women dressed as men, means men dressed as women, means singing, means dancing, means laughing, means shouting, means water pistols, means loud explosions, means a wedding; yes, it means panto!

This show was seen on the penul-timate day for the panto, and I think it’s testament to the efforts put in by the team at Winchester in the past that so many shows in this run of Aladdin were sold out. We were promised original songs with a live band – we got so much more.

We saw quality actors, big sets and nice touches. We got contemporary jokes that included Jedward and the Duchess of Cambridge. Was I also the only one who actually felt the cold when we were in the cave and Abanazer’s Lair? How did they do that?!

From the moment he took to the stage I loved Abanazer (Jon De Ville). I loved his huge cloak-like costume and the way he swept on to the stage. I loved his menacing demeanour. I loved the way in which he dealt with retorts (nice ones and not expected) from the audience within the first 30 seconds. I loved the way he looked like my hero (Alice Cooper) in places. He even said as much!

The Empress (Kali Hughes) was another who had to deliver the ultimate in nasty; Kali’s voice soared around the theatre both in acting and song. You feel you wouldn’t want to bump into her in one of the dark alleyways off Jewry Street! Hannah Jackson provided an infectious performance as Slave of the Ring – and congratula-tions to Amir Boutrous for his modesty as the Genie: “I’m providing the male eye candy… hey girls?” The Princess Jasmine (Felicity McCormack) looked stunning at the wedding scene.

Steve Ritchie (pictued, top left) drew as many bellows as he could from the younger members of the audience, providing much of the continuity as Wishee Washee during scene changes. Steve spoke to me during an autograph session just a few minutes ahead of the final show on the Sunday afternoon: “I can’t knock the spirit of panto. I can’t knock it at all. It’s such a shame that it’s the last show but all good things have got to come to an end. I have loved every minute of it and I do not want it to end - I’m living the dream; I’m loving it! The cast are absolutely fantastic, the crew are fabulous, and the people in Winchester have been amazing.” Just like Jon, Steve has to think quickly on his feet and react quickly to what children shout out during the performance: “Getting the reaction from the children and the responses and the rapport from them is the best thing ever. I just react to what anyone says to me… straight on with the one-liner and then boom, done,

move on! Get on with the plot! But all the cast like to have a bit of a giggle; that’s the main thing. I’m going to miss all the cast, they’re blinding; such a talented cast to work with. Hopefully I‘ll be back in Winchester next year, too.”

Then there was Aladdin. Samantha Jenkinson lives just up the road in Tadley, says she’s thrilled to have been working so close to home and she should be proud of what she managed to achieve on her debut here in Winchester.

Julian Eardley was superb as Widow Twankey, dominating the stage in equal measure as Abanazer; we were always on her (his?) side and the

adults in the audience delighted in his jokes that were aimed at them.

Others who need to take a bow include those responsible for the costumes (Lydia Southwell is the Wardrobe Mistress). They were bright and colourful and it looked like a lot of thought had gone into their creation, especially when they were made to clash in a hideous fashion like those for the Empress in Act 2. I also loved the Widow’s outrageous orange boots in the first act.

We were promised a flight on a magic carpet – and it was enthral-ling. It was clever and enchanting. Even King Alfred got in on the act here. I have absolutely no idea how they made the carpet fly, but that’s the magic of the theatre!

The dance scene with the Chinese Dragon was beautifully performed by the children. The dragon itself looked wonderful, well-made and stretched right across the stage – but I feel it could have been a lot brasher and noisier with the use of bigger cymbals like they do in the streets or restau-rants; the appearance of the Dragon is after all SUPPOSED to be proud and a little frightening.

The funniest moment was completely unscripted, and came when Abanazer had to show the Magic Ring to the rest of the cast – only to have to openly admit that it would have to be an imaginary one as he “had left the real one on the props table…” Everyone burst out laughing; it also brought a huge cheer and spontaneous round of applause from the audience as he had handled it so well and the Genie went off to fetch it!

Afterwards, it was especially good to see the cast come to the Stage Door in their costumes to have pictures taken with children from the audience. They were greeted with huge smiles all round, and it was a nice touch to end an evening full of laughter.

JLewis Plumbing

07704477229


Preview

A new exhibition of screen-prints by Michael Craig-Martin will be on display for much of January and in to February at The Gallery exhibi-tion space in Winchester Discovery Centre - bringing audiences in Winchester a chance to experience one of the most influential British artists of recent decades.

The Irish conceptual artist and painter taught many Young British Artists including Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin at Goldsmiths College in London in the 1980s.

In this exhibition, ‘Alphabet’, on loan from the Hayward Gallery in London, he has produced 26 screen prints in which the letters

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of the alphabet are overlaid with everyday objects such as a book, a glass of water or an umbrella. Michael Craig-Martin plays with the idea of the ABC children’s primer. Instead of a direct ‘A is for Apple’, ‘B is for Ball’, the relation-ship between the letter and image is more ambiguous and requires more

creative interpretation.Culture and Recreation boss Keith

Chapman is delighted by the oppor-tunity: “To be able to bring this high-quality exhibition from such an influential and renowned artist, to Hampshire for local audiences to enjoy, is a real privilege.”

Over the past decade, Craig-Martin’s work has embraced digital technology as a tool for working on ideas and compositions. He has used a computer to create an image-

bank of everyday objects which have been used in large-scale wall drawings and acrylic paintings on canvas. He drew upon this resource to create ‘Alphabet’, which was then produced using traditional screen-printing methods.

‘Alphabet’ is on loan from the Hayward Gallery in London.

‘Alphabet’ – Winchester Discovery Centre Michael Craig Martin (ends Sunday 10th February, 2013)

Alphabet, 2007 A series of 26 screenprints © Michael Craig-Martin. Courtesy Alan Cristea Gallery, London

Brussels EscapeJANUARY 2013 WINCHESTER TODAY 9

Having lived in Brussels for 6 years in the early 1980s, the joke about naming any famous Belgians started to wear thin around 20 years ago. This was a country that had cable TV - including a direct feed of BBC 1 and 2 - long before the UK had ever thought about it. Add a cosmopolitan popu-lation flooded with a truly interna-tional work-ethic slant; waffles, frites, chocolate, beer and an abundance of splendid restaurants with French, Italian and Flanders cuisine - and why would you need anyone famous?

Brussels is a city closer to us than many in our own country. Long gone are the days of catching the ‘boat train’ or jetfoil. Leave London at lunchtime and you could be enjoying a beer in the Grand’Place in the late afternoon. Brussels is now easily reached with a direct train route from St Pancras - or by plane from Heathrow or

ESCAPESouthampton.

There are incredible hotel deals off-season. I got a night at the Holiday Inn near Schumann through Kayak for £39. That’s a double room in a beautiful hotel - with a wonderful bright garden-facing restaurant (Pablo’s) where you can enjoy breakfast for an extra €10. The place empties of European Commission workers at the weekend and they’d rather have the rooms full than not at all. It’s only 2 miles from the centre... 5 minutes on the fast Metro. A metro ticket is fixed at €2 and you can get 10 for €13.

Getting there is hardly expensive either - as I write this, you can get a 1.30pm BA flight out from Heathrow on a Friday in February for £59, and the same price for an 8.30pm flight back on a Sunday evening.

I’d actually been invited there to be a guest DJ at a 1980s reunion, but made

sure I spent the next day as a tourist - something I rarely did when I lived there.

There are so many things to see and do that you would be hard-pushed to do it all in a weekend, especially if you want to include Mini-Europe and the Atomium. But in the centre, you can see much in 1 day at a relaxed pace. The Grand’Place, Mannequin Pis, Galeries, Opera House, Rue Neuve, breweries and Grand Sablon are all within a short distance of each other.

The city is a bit spread out if you look west to east and want to walk, but if you’re at the Palais de Justice and look north, you can see much of the city spread out before you. In a day, you can see all the things you want to see by foot.

I walked down from there through the flea-market at the Place du Grand Sablon on a cold but beautifully sunny autumn afternoon. If you can’t find what you want there, you never needed it. Then down to the most-photographed small boy in the world - the one taking a leak in the Rue de l’Etuve. Just 24 inches high, the Mannequin Pis is often dressed up and never fails to raise a smile!

From there, a short walk to the Grand’Place will make you say ‘wow’ at least 10 times. Surrounded by the Guildhalls, you can stand there for half-an-hour in wonder before you would ever want to move on. It’s a World Heritage Site. No surprise. It’s also where they filmed ‘Secret Army’.

Off towards what is effectively the east side of the Grand’Place you’ll find the Royal St Hubert Galleries... and lace shops and chocolate shops and lace shops and chocolate shops...! My favourite always has been Neuhaus in

A city break to Brussels in search of the perfect chocolate - Kevin Gover visits the country where no-one has to be [email protected]

the Galeries St Hubert. The staff are wonderful, they’ll help you choose your chocolates, and the packaging is superb. Yes, it costs an arm and a leg. But it’s worth it!

I topped this off with an hour or two sitting outside the Hotel Metropole in the Place de Brouckère. Why is it 5

star? Just look at the check-in. Look at the café inside. And if you can afford it - stay there!

Alternatively, just sit outside. Think about those five famous Belgians... maybe your list includes Clijsters, Hergé, van Damme, Merckx, Hepburn, Sax... Plastic Bertrand...

A Four PageSpecial


Escape Canada

As part of a recent round-the-world adventure, Adam Zuchetti found himself on a two-week trek across Canada, beginning in Vancouver and heading east to Montreal (pronounced Mon-ré-al en français!). Here he tells of bear spotting, sliding on a glacier and finding other Wintonians at the dining table.

For many people, Canada seems to be on the list of places to visit, but one that all too often gets bumped in favour of somewhere else. My recommenda-tion – bump the other places instead! I had high hopes for my Canadian voyage, and even these didn’t come close to the reality of what awaited me.

Vancouver was my first port of call – a city with a reputation for modernity, a pictur esque harbour and an abundance of “liquid sunshine” (it is generally wetter than most parts of the UK). However, warm sunshine greeted me on arrival, and was to pretty much follow my every move for the next two weeks. Here I stayed harbourfront at the Pan Pacific, adjoining Vancouver’s main conven-tion centre. The service was faultless and the beautiful room overlooked the harbour, from where you could take in breathtaking sunsets across the water up to the gigantic mountains towering over the city.

One of these is Grouse Mountain - a popular attraction offering gondola

A Canadian adventure to remember

and chairlift access to some stunning vantage points looking across the mountain tops and straight down to the city and harbour below. Atop the mighty mountain, you can do the touristy thing (a role I played shame-lessly) and see some grizzly bears and a lumberjack show, or simply take in the fresh mountain air and stunning views (on a clear day).

If you’ve got the time, you can take in the magnificence of Vancouver on foot, or by renting a bike, and leisurely making your way around harbourfront Stanley Park. Other attractions include nearby Vancouver Island, accessible by ferry and easily a full holiday experience on its own, while the inner suburb of Gas Town is a modern treasure trove of delights for foodies and culture buffs alike. If seafood is your thing, or even if it isn’t, Cadero’s on the city’s foreshore is a real treat. This restaurant, set in an old timber boathouse over the water, combines some extraordinary culinary treats – and views through the moorings that will make you want to sit and sip a glass of wine for hours.

Vancouver also hosts the terminus for the world-renowned Rocky Mountaineer: one of the world’s best train journeys, and one I just can’t rate highly enough. While it doesn’t come cheap, it is the ultimate holiday for every type of enthusiast – train, food, nature, landscape and of course photography! The staff brilliantly

blend the roles of server, tour guide and travel buddy, while the food is scrumptious and the drinks just keep on flowing.

Following an early start (arriving at 6.30am), everyone checked in and were then awoken by an impressive ceremony involving two bagpipers and a welcome speech. Once on board, we learned the significance of the bagpipes while toasting our voyage – the trans-Canadian railroad was only made possible thanks to Scottish expertise and financial investment.

There are several journeys you can make on the Mountaineer. I took arguably the best of these – a two-day trip across the Rocky Mountains to the ski town of Banff. On the first day, I was surprised to discover that Canada has a semi-arid, almost desert-like region. But it makes sense given the size of these mountains and their ability to disrupt and redirect rainfall to the coastline (hence Vancouver’s usual sogginess).

After overnighting at a hotel in remote Kamloops, day two began with a 6.15am bus transfer from the hotel. It was by far the most spectac-ular – there was more camera action than the red carpet on Oscars night! Gigantic mountains towering above pristine lakes and glacier-fed rivers running alongside the train, mostly in an azure blue but sometimes in a unique and strangely beautiful milky colour that the camera lapped up.

We were lucky enough to spot two black bears from the train as well as deer, elk and plenty of bald eagles nesting alongside the tracks, though sadly the moose were particularly camera shy. Depending on the time of year, you can also see the hoards of salmon making their way upstream to spawn.

A less usual sight was the helicopter whirling overhead videoing the train for next year’s advertisements. At one point, while downstairs savouring my delicious lunch, the helicopter dropped into a gorge and hovered right beside the carriage – one wondered if James Bond was onboard.

If you are going to do this trip of a lifetime, it is best to splash out on the top-tier Gold Leaf service. The comfy seats in the sky carriages, with full glass-dome roof on the top floor and luxurious dining underneath, as well as the carriage’s own private balcony for snapping pictures or enjoying the fresh mountain air, make it too good to pass up.

Included in the ticket price is every-thing you could possibly need to feel pampered: unlimited drinks service, hotel accommodation and transfers for multi-day journeys (you’ll even meet your luggage in your room along with a surprise memento of your travels), full breakfast and three-course lunch both days plus snacks in between, as well as souvenir postcards.

The Silver and Red Leaf classes lack the open-air space for taking photos and offer only limited services, but are significantly cheaper if you’re on a tight budget.

Once the scenic journey arrived in Banff, I checked into the splendid Rimrock Hotel. It is nestled at the base of towering Sulphur Mountain (top right), another with gondola access to the summit which boasts spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and deep gorges. Somehow again the weather was clear and sunny (albeit with icy mountain winds), meaning you could see forever – or at least to the next mountain.

After picking up a rental car (a surprisingly tedious feat for a pre-paid car in a Western nation) and with a stop for a Sunday pub lunch in the warm sun and mountainous surrounds, I hit the open road to explore one of Canada’s most iconic attractions – Lake Louise.

I was surprised to find the lake was nowhere near as big as the photos led me to believe and, sadly, the wind was persisting, meaning that together with the kayakers making their own fun, the mirror-image still waters were noticeably absent. However the rich blue colour of the lake and the glacier hanging ominously above it still made for some great photos. There are also walking trails around the lake and part-way up the surrounding mountains, so there are plenty of angles from which to savour the sight.

I stayed at the Deer Lodge, a two-minute walk away – a charming timber lodge with plenty of character, which was thoroughly enjoyable and modestly priced. But if you have the cash to splash, it would no doubt be another of those must-do-in-my-life-time experiences to stay at the grand old dame of hotels, The Fairmont, which straddles the shoreline and

Canada EscapeJANUARY 2013 WINCHESTER TODAY 11

offers unparalleled views to from which to see the lake change with the seasons.

Giving it a second crack for that mirror image, I checked out at dawn and made my way back to the lake’s edge to watch the sunrise. And it couldn’t have been more impressive. As the sun poked its head over the far-off mountains and bounced from cloud to cloud, the glacier began to glow, a pale orange at first before burning a brilliant red – reflected near perfectly on the lake’s surface. It was one of those moments you can’t help but be in awe of Mother Nature and all her wonders!

It is poignant to note that Lake Louise is frozen for most of the year, from October/November through to around June, so you will get a different view depending on the time of year you visit.

Connecting Lake Louise to the ski resort town of Jasper is The Ice Road, said to be one of the most scenic roads on the planet. A long trek and definitely one reserved for the warmer months, this drive takes you past incred-ible lakes and rivers, winds through mountains that appear to touch the sky and from which you’ll see plenty of glaciers perched high above you, some rich-blue in colour with intricate flow marks etched into them.

One of these is the Columbian Icefields. Here, you can take a guided

tour onto the Saskatchewan Glacier, previously one of the world’s largest but sadly fading rapidly in recent decades. My visit marked one of the most treacherous days of the year for visitors, given overnight rainfall and high (chilly) winds – meaning it was something of an effort to walk up hill against the wind, but ‘a breeze’ to let the wind slide you across the surface back down to the bus. But to say you’ve walked on a glacier is, pardon the pun, pretty cool – although not as cool as the -55° Celsius once recorded inside the locked up visitor centre!

Tearing off the beanie, gloves, scarf and coat, I jumped back in the car and hit the road once more toward Jasper. This was the place to shop for an authentic Canadian souvenir (among plenty of Chinese made ones) and watch the ominous first winter clouds rolling down the mountains toward the town.

It was also in Jasper that I boarded the Canadian operated by Via Rail – the trans-continental sleeper train that runs from Vancouver to Toronto. This was to be home for the next three nights, racing through the prairieland.

One may wonder about spending

such a large portion of your holiday on a train. Yes, I admit to being glad to get off at the end of it. But we passed through some spectacular country-side, never went hungry or thirsty, and when not enjoying one of the activities available (beer and wine tasting, movie nights, the activities car or enjoying the views from the sky cab) there were plenty of interesting people from the world over to catch the breeze with.

The majority of my fellow passen-gers were Canadian and American – although I did meet a New Zealand writer, a sheepfarming couple from the Australian outback and a family of Iranian-Canadians.

By a twist of fate, I dined one night in the company of a Canadian couple from – Winchester! Yes, they thought it marvellous to meet a resident of the original Winchester from which their home town in Alberta was named. Intriguingly, almost everyone I spoke to knew of Winchester thanks to the Cathedral immortalised in THAT song by the New Vaudeville Band...

Arriving in Toronto at journey’s end, the station struggled with handling luggage (one trolley with around six suitcases came down at a time – when I left an hour later, there was still a large crowd waiting for their bags). The city was also a construction zone, with cranes and road barriers every-where you looked.

Despite several train passengers

talking up Toronto, I opted to skip this one, instead jumping straight in the rental car (a stylish black Chevy was the “small car” I was given the keys to) and taking the hour-long drive through the wine region to the world-famous Niagara Falls [picture, main].

It’s true that the view of the Falls is infinitely better from the Canadian side (they form the border with the US), and the Sheraton Hotel is wonderfully positioned to take full advantage of this view. By day these gigantic falls are a sight unto themselves, but by night they are lit up in the colours of the Canadian and US flags, allowing you to appreciate them in a whole new light.

The roar of the water as it tumbles over the rocky ledge is incredible – particularly if you do the full tourist cliché and venture (in bright blue raincoat) on the Maid of the Mist, the boats venturing from both sides of the river to the base of the river. It’s loud, it’s wet and, up close, feels like the boat is caught in the spin cycle of a washing machine – but it presents an opportunity for some really unique photos.

Sadly the namesake town of this

wonder of nature is nowhere near as magnificent. One of the major border crossings into the US, the town resembles a very poor cross between Las Vegas and a children’s fair, with a mass of neon lights, museums for the celebrity-obsessed and tacky carnival rides. Someone told me it was precisely because of this town that both Canada and the US rapidly began creating National Parks in the Nineteenth Century

From here I embarked on the trip to my last destination – Montreal, in the heart of French Canada. In some ways it is remark-ably similar to the relationship between England and France, where French becomes spoken before English in official announcements and on sign-boards. However, unlike in Paris especially, if you speak French to the locals, they will happily continue to converse with you in French, instead of automatically responding in English.

The city itself is rather unre-markable, with a cluster of rather ordinary looking towers. However Montreal is more known for its cultural aspects, of which there are many. Some great shopping, good food

and an abundance of nightlife. Vieux Montréal (old Montreal) is also worth a look if you get the chance, with its cobbled streets, museums and gift shops and an overall old-world French charm.

My only real disappointment in Canada was not seeing any moose – and so at one of the many gift shops across Canada, Buddy the “moose bear” – a teddy bear wearing a moose onesie – entered my life and quickly became the mascot for the remainder of the trip.

Canadians are by far the friendliest people I have met anywhere in the world, the seafood is exquisite and the scenery – well, it speaks for itself. Just remember that most attractions close for Canada’s harsh winter months, from October through to around March/April, so if it’s sightseeing you’re planning, save it for mid-year. Otherwise, live it up and enjoy the journey – and watch out for me waving furiously from the Rocky Mountaineer in next year’s advertisements!

1 Eating Things are relatively expensive in Canada, when you consider that VAT and a tip of at least 15% is required on top of the price of meals. Think American-sized portions, though a touch smaller.2 Money virtually no ATM in Canada will let you withdraw money, no matter what cards they say they will take. Expect to live on your credit or debit card.3 Travel Internal flights are very expensive, so most people travel by train.

Escape: Travel Tips

Escape Ireland12 WINCHESTER TODAY JANUARY 2013

It is twenty minutes to midnight on New Year’s Eve at Sean’s Bar in the Irish town of Athlone. The singer is performing one of Ireland’s unoffi-cial anthems ‘Fairytale of New York’ and the happy punters are singing and dancing along. Being in an Irish bar on New Year’s Eve is hardly unusual but this is a bar with a difference. Sean’s Bar claims to be the oldest bar in Ireland. In fact many bars in Ireland claim this title but the difference is that this pub boasts that its title is backed up by the Guinness World Records. A framed certificate hangs proudly by the fireplace.

Archaeological evidence suggests that people have been enjoying a drink in Sean’s Bar since 900AD though its original customers have long gone judging by the amount of energy put into the singing and dancing. This is contrasted with a glass case containing a section of its ancient wattle and daub walls. Auld Lang Sydney kicks in and people welcome in the new year but in Athlone’s grand past is never far away.

Next to Sean’s Bar is the rela-tively young 12th century Athlone Castle which has just been reopened following a refurbishment. It was built during Anglo-Norman times for England’s King John by his Irish justiciar Bishop John De Gray of Norwich. The castle and its museum are well worth visiting. It is perhaps best known for its role in the Sieges

of Athlone when it was besieged by William of Orange’s forces in 1690 and 1691. The first attempt to take the castle failed but the second one was more successful.

Athlone has historically been of strategic importance as a town in Ireland because of its central location. It is in fact the most central town in the country. This has not only meant that invading armies have wanted to take it over to gain access to other parts of the nation but it makes it a great place for exploring this beautiful island. Unsurprisingly, you do not have to go far to find more history and beauty.

The town is on the banks of the River Shannon which is the longest river on the British Isles. Bronze Age artefacts discovered in its depths suggest humans have been in the area for thousands of years. The Vikings were no stranger to the area either and had been sailing on it 1,200 years ago. One of the best ways to learn about Athlone and surrounding areas is to take a Viking boat cruise which leaves regularly from outside the castle. Prices start from £8 for adults and £4 for children. I found it fascinating in terms of history and beauty. Our guide was very enthusiastic and you could sense his love for the place.

One of the cruises sails past nearby Clanmacnoise. Ireland is not only known for its colourful variety of bars but also for the influence of Christianity. It was founded sometime

between 545 and 548 AD by Ciarán Mac a tSaor. Until the 9th century it had close associations with the kings of Connacht. The central location of the monastery helped it become a major centre of religion, learning, craftsmanship and trade by the 9th century and visited by scholars from all over Europe.

Many local kings were buried here and in 1979 Pope John Paul II visited. It is easy for visitors to feel in awe of its history when visiting Clanmacnoise. Do not forget to admire the many old grave stones and intriguing Celtic crosses. The best way to get there is by car or taxi. Admission is from £6 for adults, £3 for senior citizens and groups and about £1 for children.

The grounds of Birr Castle are also a good place to visit. It also plays host to Ireland’s Historic Science Centre. There has been a castle on the site since 1170. It is still the home of the current Earl of Rosse who is the step-brother to Princess Margaret’s former husband Lord Snowdon.

Athlone’s Luan Gallery opened in 2012 with a prestigious exhibition from the Irish Museum of Modern Art featuring the work of accomplished national and international artists. Do not forget to also take time to admire the design of St Peter and St Paul’s Roman Catholic Church in the west bank of the river Shannon. The town is also popular with birdwatchers, anglers and swimmers. If you are after locally made arts and crafts try the Athlone Crystal and Gift Gallery.

The town’s location does not only mean that the whole of Ireland is very accessible but it also means that the town is within easy reach of the capital city Dublin and its airport. You can usually get to Athlone by car, train or coach within one hour twenty minutes. Bus Eireann and City Link offer regular services as does Irish Rail.

There is no shortage of hotels with my favourite being the Sheraton which is surprisingly affordable and is attached to the largest shopping and leisure centre outside of Dublin. Another nearby shopping centre called The Golden Island also features a cinema.

Sean’s Bar is but one of the many

Doing Something Different for New Year Winchester Today’s Deputy Editor William Brougham visits [email protected]

pubs in Athlone. Others include The Castle Inn, Richard Grace’s Bar and The Shack. But for me the food is the highlight in Athlone and I can honestly say I have rarely tasted such delicious food anywhere. My favourite place for lunch is a café called the Poppy Fields. It provides some great dishes including full all day Irish breakfasts, delicious main dishes and gorgeous desserts. O’Briens opposite has some tasty sandwiches and baguettes. Both places have excellent vegetarian and gluten free options.

Carveries are very popular in Ireland and one that I particularly like can be found at the Hodson Bay Hotel about three miles outside Athlone. Try the roast beef. The stunning setting on the River Shannon is to die for. For desert head back into town and enjoy some cakes on the banks of the river at the

Shannon Crafts and Coffee Dock. You can also buy locally produced souvenirs there too.

Athlone is also an excellent place to dine out in the evening. My particular favourite for a steak and friendly service is The Olive Grove. However, if you prefer something a bit more exotic then try the delicious Mother India, Al Mezze (Lebanese) and Kin Khao for Thai. I can thoroughly recommend all of them. Oh yes and for the best kebab you will ever taste try King Kebabs. Kebabs do not often feature in reviews but these are divine.

So as you celebrate the New Year, why not make a visit to this very beautiful and historic part of Ireland as one of your resolutions? After all, there’s always a warm Irish welcome and a drink with your name on it in Sean’s Bar.

TransportAer Lingus: Flights to Dublin from

£29.99 each way. - http://www.aerlingus.comCity Link: www.citylink.ieBus Eireann: www.buseireann.ieIrish Rail: www.irishrail.ie/AthloneAvis Car Rental: http://www.avis.ie

HotelsSheraton Hotel: Prices from £52

www.sheratonathlonehotel.com/(pictured, above)

BarsSean’s Bar: seansbar.lightholder-

productions.comCastle Inn: hecastleinnathlone.com

RestaurantsPoppy Fields: www.poppyfieldscafe.comO’Brien’s: www.obriens.ieOlive Grove: www.theolivegrove.ieHodson Bay Hotel: /www.hodsonbayhotel.com

Kin khao (Thai): kinkhaothai.ieAl Mezza (Lebanese): www.almezza.net/index.htmlShannon Crafts and Coffee Dock:www.athlone.ie/business-directory/

shannon-crafts-and-coffee-dockKing Kebab: www.just-eat.ie/

restaurants-kingkebab/menu

Visitor AttractionsAthlone Castle: www.athlone.ie/athlone-castleClanmacnoise:www.heritageireland.ie/en/

midlandseastcoast/clonmacnoise/Birr Castle: www.birrcastle.com/Luan Gallery: www.athloneartand-

heritage.ie/luan-gallery/St Peter and St Paul’s Church: www.drum.ie/parish/athloneViking Tours: www.vikingtoursireland.ie

Property14 WINCHESTER TODAY JANUARY 2013

Just prior to Christmas, Winchester City Council announced it is proceeding with the second phase of its Local Plan. Yet rather than be complacent, residents are urged to have their say to ensure future developments fit the character of our neighbourhoods.

The strategy, dubbed the Local Plan Part 2, aims to allocate smaller sites for development while establishing detailed planning policies and reviewing others already in force. Together with the already finalised Local Plan Part 1 – Joint Core Strategy, it will form the Council’s basis for assessing all new developments through until 2031.

Councillor Rob Humby, the Council’s Portfolio Holder for Strategic Planning and Economic Development, said in a statement announcing the next phase of planning that the Council will be working closely with local communities, espe-cially in the larger settlements that have a housing target in Local Plan Part 1, to develop a Plan that has strong local input and community support.

As Winchester Today reported recently, there is plenty of development already underway and proposed across the region, ranging from boutique redevelopments to large new residential communities.

Some, such as the redevelopment of the derelict Heart in Hand hotel site on Bar End Road on the city fringe have been welcomed by many residents, who are hoping the new residential development named Chesil Mews will signify a regeneration of the local neighbourhood.

One such resident, Di Stewart, told Winchester Today that the old pub was a real eyesore: “Particularly after it closed down and remained boarded up for months. We think the new homes going in are much more attractive and suited to the community, and will make the area a much nicer place to live.”

However other development are causing concern among neighbouring residents concerned about the impact on the character of the area.

Residents of Hatherley Road are not exactly happy about the proposed development of a three-storey building in their midst.

A 0.21 acre property in the street - that of an old house beside the nursery - is understood to be in the final stages of sale. In August, the council approved plans for the construction of four dwellings comprising one house and three flats on the site, as well as associated parking and land-scaping. The application was made by Christes Hospital School Foundation Winchester.

One local resident, who didn’t want to be named, said it was disappointing that the site had to be developed at all, but ludicrous to have such a high density of dwellings: “We are all really concerned about the size and scale of development on the

property. Four new homes, each requiring at least one or two car spaces, is a lot to put on that parcel of land. We don’t want to have this building towering over our homes.”

Residents will likely have to wait until after the sale is completed to find out whether the development plans will go ahead or if new plans be lodged with Council. But it serves as a reminder to residents across the district to take up the opportunity to comment on the Council’s planning procedures and decisions, expressing any objections they have early on.

As well as consultations on individual devel-opment proposals as they arise, the Local Plan Part 2 consultation period provides the opportu-nity to help formulate the regulations governing new developments in the area for the next two decades.

More information on both parts of the Local Plan can be viewed on the Council’s website at www.winchester.gov.uk.

2012 – may it have marked a turning point?The property market in 2013 may produce

increasingly positive results for sellers, after years of price stagnation and low buyer interest – led in no small part by restricted bank lending.

According to Doug Shephard, director at property website home.co.uk, last year was the best for house prices across the UK since the financial crisis first erupted five years ago: “Following the stable pricing of 2011, we have tracked rising prices throughout 2012,” Mr Shephard told Winchester Today. “London and the South East – particularly popular commuting cities such as Winchester – have been the major drivers of this growth.”

Since December 2011, the average asking price for a UK property has risen 2.4 per cent. This figure is significant, as it is the first time since the downturn that prices have grown at roughly the same rate as inflation.

Another positive sign is that properties are beginning to sell more quickly, with the average length of time on market nationally has fallen by nine days to 129 days.

Mr Shephard also notes that house prices have been supported by strong demand for rental properties. Many people have held off selling and instead let their properties to take advantage of soaring rents, and this lack of supply in the sales market has given sellers confidence to stick more closely to their initial asking prices.

Would you like to feature your property? Have an issue to raise about property in your neighbourhood? Let us know! Email [email protected]

Winchester Today’s Property Editor Adam Zuchetti speaks to residents having their say on local [email protected]

The Joiners Facing Financial CrisisA ‘Turn it Up’ special report from Winchester Today’s Music Editor Rebecca Rayner


Turn it Up!

Anyone in Winchester who loves music knows and loves The Joiners. Even if you don’t know where it is, you will have heard of it. On the surface The Joiners just seems like another small venue like the thousands of others dotted up and down the country. It puts on gigs from local and national bands alike almost every day of the week.

It’s restless; there is always some kind of musical noise resonating between its walls. Walking past it, it’s easy to miss and to underesti-mate just how much this building means in terms of music, not only locally but on a national scale. Sadly though things aren’t always what they seem, The Joiners is facing a major financial crisis.

The founder of The Joiners was a man known simply as ‘Mint’. Originally a promoter who had worked with the likes of ‘The Smiths’, he moved from his home town of Birmingham to Southampton in 1987. Once in Southampton he persuaded friends such as Mike Gulliver, who was a landlord at the time, to let him put on gigs which were initially held on alternate Tuesday nights. Eventually Mint got The Joiners established on what was known as ‘The UK Toilet Circuit’. The first band he booked to play the venue

was ‘Stitched Black Foot Airman’ on the 26th January 1988. Mint had an outstanding knowledge of the music industry along with fantastic timing which saw him book bands which have now gone on to become huge names in music. These included names such as Suede, Oasis, The Manic Street Preachers, Radiohead and Coldplay.

After such a successful history why is It that now The Joiners is struggling with its finances to the degree of possibly having to close its doors? Current owner, Patrick Muldowney, puts it down to the current economic crisis: “It is the same with many small venues and businesses as a whole. The recession means people are spending less money on going out and buying tickets for gigs but all the overheads remain the same. You have to pay the band, pay the bills and keep the place looking tidy.” So with the current recession being the largest hurdle faced by The Joiners, surely other venues have been left with similar financial issues?

This very problem has affected another prominent Southampton music venue. In early 2012, crippled by financial misfortune, The Talking Heads closed its doors. There was a huge public response to this closure resulting in an online

campaign using social media outlets such as Facebook and Twitter to raise awareness of the closure of an important local venue. 4,000 people joined the online campaign to save The Talking Heads which eventu-ally led to the venue being re-opened

in April 2012 with two new names on the lease, local businessman Guy Benfield and former sound techni-cian at The Talking Heads Martin White.

Is recession solely the reason why The Joiners is facing troubled times or is there another problem also underlining this factor? Davyd Winter-Bates, bassist in local band ‘Bury Tomorrow’ has graced the stage of The Joiners many a time and has been going to the venue since he was about 14 years old. Winter-Bates thinks the problems the venue is facing is to do with the social change in attitude in regards to live music: “I don’t think live music is popular at the moment. You see some of the biggest artists in the world underselling venues that two years ago would have to have added three extra dates to it.”

He also puts it down to bands shying away from promoting hard ticket sales and instead concen-trating their promotion on social media outlets: “Bands just don’t want to work for it! They think that if they’ve got 200 likes on a Facebook event that means they’re going to have 200 people turn up, and what it really means is you will probably have like three people turn up.” So, if it is a mixture of change in social attitude to live music and the recession effecting The Joiners then what can be done to resolve the problem?

Local musician Frank Turner is at the forefront of a campaign to generate the £30,000 needed for The Joiners to pay off its debts and remain open. First announced on The Joiners Facebook page, Turner played a benefit gig at the venue on Friday 28th December. Ticket

sales for this event proved to be so popular in fact that it sold out in nine seconds. Also due to a technical glitch more tickets were sold than the 150 capacity venue could take and therefore an overflow show was arranged to take place earlier on the same day. The Joiners is a venue of importance to Turner and he was delighted to be able to help out: “The Joiners is really important to me. I went to my first show there in 1994, played there many times, including ‘Million Dead’s’ last ever show. Small venues are the lifeblood of any music scene, wether local or national, so it’s the least I can do to try and help out. The show is raising money to keep the venue afloat. It’s feels pretty crazy having it sell out so fast, many were the nights I’ve played there when not many people showed up.”

With venues up and down the country facing similar problems to The Joiners and The Talking Heads, the live music act was introduced by the government in October 2012 to reduce the red tape surrounding live music events in the hope to encourage the perfor-mance of more live music. The act will help ease restrictions on venues with a capacity of up to 200 people, meaning this will directly effect The Joiners, with a capacity of 150 people. Hopefully the act will have a positive affect and will make it easier for small venues to grow further and reduce the financial costs of licensing and other such outgoings. Only time will tell what will happen to The Joiners but with local residents and well known musicians such as Frank Turner working together in support to keep such an important venue open, the future of The Joiners in the New Year is looking bright.

Evarose onstage at the Joiners in Southampton

The venue, a staple amongst the city is facing a financial cliff. Below, Straight Lines perform.

Think! Prize PageJANUARY 2013 WINCHESTER TODAY 17

Prize Sudoku N°001Difficulty: Medium Hard

Across:1 Body fluid (5)4 Fruit (6)8 Jet-engine thruster (11)9 Greasy (4)12 Writing utensil (3)13 Get up (5)14 Type of beer (3)16 English County (4)19 Comic artist (11)20 Boards (6)21 Light meal (7)

Down:2 Remnants (9)3 Western US State (6)5 Uncommon (4)6 Poor (5)7 Skill (7)10 Geological time period (9)11 Depressions (7)15 Reach goal (6)17 Small insect (4)18 Type of music (4)

1st prize is £30 in Waitrose vouchers for a correct and completed entry drawn out of the hat.2nd prize £20.3rd prize £10.

answers in the next issue

Scribble space:

Prize Crossword N°004 Concise crossword for a quick break

This Page is Worth Over £200!

All entries by post ONLY to Winchester Today, Suite 123, 80 High Street, Winchester SO23 9AT. One entry per household, per competition. Closing date: 31st January. Winners will be announced in the next available edition.

Thanks to the team at Marwell Wildlife for offering a family ticket for our readers...

Pictured is an Amur Leopard which is listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as Critically Endangered. Fewer than 35 are said to live in the wild. To be in with a chance of winning, tell us: In the far south east of which country is the Amur Leopard primarily found? Good luck!

Prize Sudoku: 1st prize is £30 in Waitrose vouchers for a correct and completed entry drawn out of the hat. 2nd prize £20. 3rd prize £10.

To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following question;On this album was one of Elkie’s most famous singles which reached Number 8 in the UK Top 40. Released in February 1977, it told the story of a failed singer who still thinks about the success that she might have had.What was the name of that singer?

1

7

2

8

11

12

20 21

16

3 4 5 6

9 10

13 14

15

17 18

19

Win a family ticket to Marwell worth over £60!

Elkie: here’s your chance to have a listen to some of the albums we have talked about in ‘Bit at the Back’... We have 3 CDs of the Elkie Brooks ‘Two Days Away’ album to give away.

How To Enter

Classifieds18 WINCHESTER TODAY JANUARY 2013

Classifieds

Classifieds

In Town?Want to place a classi-

fied ad in the next issue of Winchester Today?

Easy!Just drop in to see our

friends at:

Mail Boxes Etc at 80 High Street

- and fill in the form!

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Bespoke events to meet all

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w marwellhotel.co.uk

OPEN NOW!From Tokyo to Winchester

Come and enjoy our Teppanyaki Grill - fresh food,

cooked beautifully

Corporate Lunch Discount (15%)Call now to make a reservation

01962 86417832-33 Jewry Street, Winchester,

SO23 8RY

Book a classified ad by downloading the form from winchestertoday.co.uk!

Help us with your time, skills and

friendship

To find out more about volunteering please contact

Volunteering Manager Julie Lamont on 01962 857097 or visit www.brendoncare.org.uk

Registered charity number: 326508

Buy a coffee and get one free!

(so drink 2 - or come with a friend!)

2 De Lunn Buildings - opp Theatre Royal

onLY WItH orIgInaL of tHIS ad

Becky’s Jewellery BoxHandmade quirky jewellery. Love

sweets, you’ll love what we make! Jammie Dodger necklaces, Oreo

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Visit the refurbished Trout at Itchen Abbas

We are open all day 11 to 11except Sunday 12 to 10.30

Food from 11 to 2.45evenings 6 to 9

Sunday lunches 12 to 801962 779537

Вы недавно в Англии?Уроки английского

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Shirley Moon Home Beauty is a home based beauty salon overlooking the green vistas of South Winchester Golf Course.

All treatments are by appointment only.

11 Seldon CloseWinchesterSO22 4JG

Tel: 01962 853 [email protected]


Bit at the Back

Bit at the BackThe reader-requested section featuring a look back at the forgotten past

By Kevin [email protected]

Okay, this month in the Bit at the Back, we’re really sticking our necks out – but we know you won’t let us down.

We want to find the best people in Winchester, through YOU!

We want you to nominate people who live and work close to you and make a REAL difference, either to you, your parents, your friends or your children.

Have a look at the categories. They’re different, and deliber-ately so. We’re talking about special people - the unsung heroes in Winchester who don’t get mentioned in other awards.

Think you know what we’re talking about? Then have a go! Put a big smile on someone’s face – and you never know… you could end up being a winner too!

Simply fill in the form below and send it back. Good luck to your nominee – and good luck to you as well!

Sport20 WINCHESTER TODAY JANUARY 2013

Inside: Escape Pullout, Music, News, Prize page & More

Arise Sir Ben!

Here at Winchester Today, we feel it entirely appropriate to devote the whole back page to a former Peter Symonds College student who had an extraordinary 2012.

Ben Ainslie received a Knighthood in the New Year Honours List after capping the 2012 Olympics with another gold medal in the Finn class. It was his fourth Olympic Gold after Sydney, Athens and Beijing.

Because he won silver in Atlanta, it made him the most decorated sailor

in Olympic history – the first to win medals in five different Olympic Games in sailing.

The Principal at his former College – Neil Hopkins - told Winchester Today that he and all the teaching staff are very proud: “He and Iain Percy were

students at Symonds in my first year or two in post; both excellent sailors, mutual rivals and good friends. It has

been a pleasure to watch their careers since.

Ben’s achievements have been outstanding, and he thoroughly deserves this honour.”

This Issue:

Bit at the Back

The Winchester TodayAwards 2013 are here!

Just turn the page!

wants you!

photo: onEdition

Winchester Today - January 2013

Documents

Transcript of Winchester Today - January 2013